Breakups can be tough, and the custody of a shared dog or cat can become a central issue when a couple separates or divorces, leading to anguish, arguments, and in some cases, a courtroom. In the eyes of the law, custody of your pet is not technically what a pet-owner should be expecting when they enter a courtroom. In all 50 states, animals are considered property, and many judges will not grant custody of a pet but rather award him as property. But animals fall into a separate category than replaceable or exchangeable property like cars or homes. Dogs and...

Veterinarians do not really know if dogs suffer from depression the same way people do because, of course, they cannot ask them. However, in clinical practices there have been a few situations where depression can be the only explanation for certain behaviors. While it is not uncommon for pets to get down, especially during periods of change, it’s rare for dogs to suffer from long-term depression. Dog symptoms of depression are very similar to those in people. They become withdrawn and inactive. Their eating and sleeping habits often change and they often do not participate in the things they once enjoyed. The...

There is a common phrase out the world that has been bandied about for ages: “fighting like cats and dogs”. Where it comes from exactly is a mystery, because in a majority of homes, dogs and cats share living quarters quite amiably. In fact, it is often more difficult to introduce a second female cat or a second male dog to a household than it is a member of the other species. To make a successful inter-species introduction in the average household, the only real prerequisite is a dog who understands a few simple commands and a sturdy baby gate to...

For some pet owners, a trip is not a true family vacation unless the furry members of the family come along. However, traveling can be a stressful endeavor, both for you and your pets. If you’re planning to take a trip with your favorite pets here are a few tips to help, ensure that your next vacation is a safe and comfortable journey for everyone. An important step to take before your trip, in fact a step everyone should take regardless of the destination, is to make sure your pet is microchipped for identification and wears a collar and tag...

As dog lovers, we know the basics of keeping our dogs safe in summer: bring lots of water with on walks, watch for the signs of overheating, and never leave a dog in the car — even on days that don't seem that warm. However, it might come as a surprise that the pavement beneath your dog's paws could be sizzling hot. And hot pavement can have gruesome and painful consequences. Pavement, asphalt, wood, sand and the surfaces of cars or trucks become very hot during the summer. These materials absorb the heat from the sun and stay hot for hours...

No one should ever expect a dog not to bark, but while some dogs cannot bark, others seem to bark excessively. If this is a problem in your home, the first step to solving the problem is to figure out why he is barking. Not all dogs are apt to offer their opinions. While historically dogs have been prized for their ability to bark and warn away other animals and intruders, some breeds are on the quiet side. A Basenji for example, will serenade you with noises that include hums, yodels and howls. Beagles do not bark, but they have...