Americans love their companion animals. These days, it’s rarer to not have a pet than to think of one as a family member. For those of us with dogs and/or cats, it’s essential to provide a cozy environment for our companion animals that's not just comfortable, but is one where they will be able to thrive.

Cats Exclusive has been in continuous operation since 1979, making them something of a legend among animal rescuers in Florida. Located in Margate, their facility allows sufficient space for the daily care of 70 cats at a time, and they typically operate at full capacity. Over the years, their adoption branch has overseen a substantial number of successful rescues … nearly 6,000 cats!

Over the course of the last decade, there’s been ample evidence to support the idea that chronic stress plays a contributing role in a variety of medical conditions in humans. It may come as no surprise that researchers have similarly determined that long-term stress can be a factor in the medical and compulsive disorders of companion animals. Conditions such as feline lower urinary tract disease, inflammatory bowel syndrome, obesity, gastric dilatation volvulus (bloat), noise phobias and separation anxiety have all been found to have a chronic stress component in both dogs and cats (Luescher, 2003). Even so, compared to humans, relatively little research has been published regarding stress and its effects on companion animals.

Does your dog exhibit symptoms of stress? Did you know that massage can help melt away woes? Best of all, pet massage is a snap. Just in time to take the stress out of the holidays, Dr. Sarah is ready to lend a helping hand – or two! In this episode of Pet Talk, Dr. Sarah shares pointers for creating a soothing environment for your furry four-footers, as well as the basic techniques you’ll need to safely massage your companion animals. After watching this short episode, and a little bit of practice, you’ll be sending your pet kids off to a blissful state of relaxation.

Many Americans decide to celebrate the holiday season by adopting a companion animal. And, who can blame them? Few would deny the happiness that comes from hearing the pitter-patter of tiny, furry feet through the house, or the genuine emotion of being on the receiving end of adoring gazes from puppies and kittens.

“Mom, Dad, can we get a pet? Please?”

If you haven’t made time lately to take your canine companion to a local dog park, you’re both missing out on some serious fun! In this episode of Pet Talk, Dr. Sarah’s on location at the Spring Canyon Dog Park in Fort Collins, CO. With the help of her Goldendoodle co-star, Alma, Dr. Sarah will share the code of proper dog-park conduct, for both canines and humans, to ensure maximum fun for everyone. Learning about companion animal etiquette has never been so much fun!

The Dr. Jane’s HealthyPetNet Foundation is pleased to announce one of its latest grant recipients, the Forte Animal Rescue (FAR). FAR well represents the noble spirit of small rescues which are short on financial backing but full of hope and strong in the belief they can affect positive change in the lives of their rescued animals.

According to the American Kennel Club, the number of pet kids reported stolen is rising. In fact, the selling of abducted companion animals has become so common that a new phrase has been coined: pet-kidnapping.