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Adopting an older dog can be the ideal addition to your family. Not only are you giving the dog a new and loving home, but it will give you love, companionship and so much more in return. It will take time for you both to learn to communicate effectively with one another, however – for the dog to learn your commands and expectations and for you to learn your dog's personality and behavioral quirks. Both sides of that communication start with the dog's name – but how can you change a dog's name after it has recognized a different name for years?Choosing a New Name for Your DogYou may never know your dog's old name, but if you do, it...

A sudden thunderstorm can be terrifying for any pet, and cats and dogs can become very stressed during storms. There are easy ways to help your pet feel more comfortable, however, and keep them from getting too excited or anxious when storms pass by. Provide a Safe PlaceYour pet will feel more secure if they have a safe, comfortable place to retreat when a storm strikes. A small, interior room without windows works best, such as a laundry room, walk-in closet, pantry or bathroom. Make sure there is a comfortable, familiar blanket, some water and other comforting objects in the room, but avoid crating your pet or restricting their movements, which would make them more anxious or destructive. Minimize the...

It can be deadly to leave a pet in a car during the summer, even if a day seems cool, it's only a few minutes time or the pet seems fine. Learning the facts about hot summer days and how pets in cars can be affected is critical for safeguarding pets and ensuring they are cool and comfortable even on the hottest days.Even "Cooler" Warm Days Become Boiling Hot Cars in MinutesIt doesn't take a 100-degree day to turn a car into an oven. When the temperature is 70 degrees outside, it may not seem overly hot, but the temperature inside a car can rise above 100 degrees in just 30 minutes. When it is 90 degrees outside, that same...

Pet obesity is something that happens to pet owners every year. The scenario usually begins with a trip to the vet at which point your pet is weighed and the veterinarian notices that Bucky the French Bulldog has gained 10 pounds since his last visit.  You and Bucky both look at the vet as if he’s crazy because you honestly can’t believe it. The truth is you’re not alone. Many pet owners have a very similar visit with the vet and are instructed to start their pets on a diet. However unlike adult obesity, obesity in pets is much easier to deal with because you as the owner are in control of what your pet ultimately eats. If your pet...

Every dog owner is familiar with their pet's emotions and moods from begging eagerly for a treat to excited to go for a walk to dramatic and fearful about a bath. There is one mood, however, that is often overlooked, simply because the owner is not around to see it – separation anxiety. What Is Separation Anxiety in Dogs? All dogs may have brief moments of separation anxiety, but momentary whining when an owner leaves does not mean the dog is genuinely distressed. True separation anxiety is a distinct behavioral change that occurs only when the owner, or whomever the dog is strongly bonded, is not around. Symptoms may be mild and could disappear quickly, but in severe cases that...