8 Steps for Wonderful Winter Walks
January 20, 2025
Keep You and Your Dog Fit (and Safe) on Winter Walks
In keeping with many New Year’s Resolutions to get healthier, January is National Walk Your Dog Month. It may seem like the worst time to get out into the great outdoors with your pet, but following these 8 steps will keep you both safe and warm.
- Make sure you, the human, are properly outfitted for the cold. Gloves are especially important when holding a leash!
- Put a jacket on your dog. This step is especially important for puppies, senior dogs, small breeds and short-haired dogs.
- Protect paws from ice and de-icing chemicals with dog booties or pet-safe gels like Musher’s Secret.
- Use a secure, front-clip harness to prevent your dog from pulling. This is safer for everyone in slippery conditions.
- Walk your dog with a fixed leash, not a retractible one. Consider a jogger’s leash, which stays hooked to you, if you fall and lose your grip.
- Make sure your dog’s clothing stays dry. Or cut your walk short if it becomes damp or wet.
- Avoid hazards like frozen ponds. Dogs can fall through thin ice into freezing water. They may suffer hypothermia or even drown.
- When you get back, wash your dog’s paws. This keeps them from licking toxic chemicals like ice melts and salts off of their paws.
Have fun exploring the winter scenery with your dog! But remember, if the weather is particularly nasty, wait until another day. Cuddling by the fire with your dog doesn’t burn calories, but it is good for the soul.
For more tips, check out our article, “Keep Your Pet Safe this Winter.”
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National Train Your Dog Month
January 13, 2025
During January’s Cold, Spend Some Quality Time with Your Dog!
January is National Train Your Dog Month, and we can’t think of a better way to spend these cold winter days than indoors helping your dog become more social, well-adjusted and welcome anywhere they go.
And you know how they say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? That’s not true! Obedience training is great for any age. In fact, most animal shelters are able to ready adult dogs for forever families through training.
Local Classes for National Train Your Dog Month
The best way to train your dog is with expert help. A professional dog trainer has experience with hundreds (thousands?) of dogs and will help personalize a program for you and your pup.
To get you started on your research, here are some places to check out. While these organizations have been recommended to us and/or have positive reviews, please use your own judgement about if a given trainer will be a good fit for your family.
At-Home Resources for National Train Your Dog Month
If you’re just getting started and want to try some training at home, check out these resources.
Enjoy checking out these resources and helping your dog be their best selves!
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A New Year’s Reflection on Our Favorite Memories
January 8, 2025
We wish a Happy 2025 to all of our patients, clients and team members! Let’s take a little time to reflect on the past year and some of our favorite photos.
Eclipse Day!
Who could forget the 2024 eclipse? We made sure to share safety tips for pets.
Sharing Our Pets for National Pet Day
Look at these sweeties!
Celebrating Veterinary Receptionist Week
Our amazing Veterinary Receptionists are the first voice you hear when you call and the first face you see when you walk in. They are critically important to patient care!
Recognizing National Mutt Day
We celebrated with Riggins.
Kitten Well Visits
We just love those kitty cuddles.
National Black Dog Day
Jedd came to see us on National Black Dog day!
Santa Visits Companion Care Animal Hospital
Thank you for sharing a wonderful year with us, and we look forward to seeing you and your pets in 2025!
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Help Your Pet Have Safe & Healthy Holidays
December 20, 2024
From Foods to Decorations to Guests, Follow These Tips this Season
Christmas, New Years and all the winter holidays can pose some challenges for keeping your pet safe. Keep these simple tips in mind for happy holidays.
Holiday No-No Foods
These foods are dangerous for pets and need to be kept away from them.
- Chocolate
- Alcohol
- Bones
- Onions
- Garlic
- Grapes/raisins
- Candy
- Cooked bones
Poisonous Plants
Festive Christmas plants can also be dangerous for curious pets. Consider artificial replacements for:
- Poinsettias
- Holly
- Mistletoe
- Lilies
Decoration Safety
Everyone loves beautiful holiday decorations! Follow these guidelines for decor that both people and animals can enjoy.
- Put out candles if you are leaving the room
- Tape down any electrical cords
- Avoid tinsel
- Cover the water pan under the Christmas tree
Managing Your Pet Around Guests
Help help your pets successfully interact with guests takes a little planning. Here are some ideas.
- Make sure their ID tags are up-to-date
- Hold onto your pet as people enter the house
- Introduce your guests to your pet
- Teach kids the proper way to treat a pet
- Make sure nobody feeds them from the table
- Give your pets a safe place to get away and have quiet time
Cold Weather Safety
- For outdoor pets, make sure to offer fresh (unfrozen) water, warm bedding and wind-free shelter
- Keep your pet away from antifreeze and other cold-weather chemicals like de-icers
- Remember that elderly and infant pets are the most vulnerable to cold
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2024’s Top 20 Pet Poisons
November 20, 2024
An Alarming Increase in Incidents Involving Antidepressants
In the last year, chocolate, grapes and raisins have claimed the top spots in Pet Poison Helpline’s call volume. These toxins account for over 25% of all calls. So, especially as we enter the season of holidays, it’s important to keep these foods out of reach of your pet.
Next on the list are common toxins ibuprofen (Advil) and bromethalin (rat poison). Calls for these toxins are over 7% of the total.
Climbing the list in this deadly popularity contest are antidepressant and antianxiety medications. These only account for 3.5% of total call volume to Pet Poison Helpline over the last year, but the increase is alarming. Over the last five years, pet poisoning calls for these medications have increased 80%. So, if you or someone in your household has a prescription for antidepressants and/or antianxiety meds, please keep them safely locked away from pets (and children).
Pet Poison Helpline’s Top 20 Toxins List
Here’s the full list of top 20 pet toxins from the last 12 months, tracked by Pet Poison Helpline
Small percentages still show many call cases received, since Pet Poison Helpline serves thousands of callers each year. So, don’t let up with your vigilance in keeping coffee beans, coffee grounds, thyroid hormone medication or beta-blockers safely away from your pets. Just because a toxin is less common doesn’t meant it can’t affect your pet.
Top Clinical Signs of Toxicity in Pets
Helpfully, there’s also a list of the top 20 clinical signs to look out for with toxicity. Check them out. This knowledge might just save an animal’s life one day.
Animal Poison Control Options
If your pet has ingested a suspected toxin, and you can’t get in touch with your veterinarian, these animal poison control lines are good resources:
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Senior Pets: Health & Adoption Awareness
November 7, 2024
November is Senior Pet Health Month, Adopt-a-Senior-Pet Month & National Pet Diabetes Month
In November, we count our blessings. Which is why we published our list of 10 Reasons to Love Senior Pets. We also know that senior pets benefit from a little more attention to their daily health.
“Age is not a barrier to a happy, healthy pet.”
Basic Considerations When Caring for Senior Pets
As your pet ages, you’ll want to learn more how to care for them in various ways, such as:
- Increased veterinary care
- Diet and nutrition
- Parasite control
- Vaccinations
- Maintaining mobility
- Mental health
- Environment
- Reproductive diseases
Your veterinarian can guide you on the steps to help your senior pet live their happiest, healthiest life. We recommend making an appointment to talk in person and make a plan.
National Pet Diabetes Month
It is estimated that one in 300 dogs and one in 230 cats in the US have diabetes. As your pet ages, you especially want to learn more about this disease. Here are the symptoms of diabetes in pets:
- Increased thirst and urination
- Weight loss
- Cloudy eyes
- Altered appetite
- Lethargy or weakness
- Poor coat
- Vomiting
Previously, we shared more about “Living with Diabetes: Your Pet.” The good news? With proper attention and veterinary care, diabetic pets can enjoy quality lives.
So, if you’re considering adopting a pet, we encourage you to meet a few senior pets. And if you already have a senior pet, give them a hug from us!
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Senior Pets: So Much to Love!
October 29, 2024
November is National Senior Pet Month
Do you have the joy of a senior pet in your life? If you don’t yet, you will as your cat or dog ages. These golden years are often a beautiful time full of special moments.
Here are 10 reasons we love our senior pets.
- Senior pets have time to cuddle (those younger pets don’t always have the patience!)
- We have years of joy with our senior pets. Cats are considered senior around 10 years of age. Small dogs are also seniors around 10 years, while larger dogs are seniors around 8 years of age.
- Senior pets have had years of life to learn how to show love and affection, i.e., socialization
- Life is calmer with a senior pet, and they usually have outgrown mischievous behavior
- These pets will take naps with you!
- When we’ve shared our life with a pet for many years, we know each other so well. Your pet probably knows what you’re going to do or what you’re feeling better than you do
- Your senior pet has also built up good habits specific to what you care about. For instance, my dog knows the difference between his toys and the kids’ toys
- Senior pets are also wonderful to adopt and start a new relationship with. They are so grateful for the peace and love that come from finding their forever family
- It’s easier to be present and treasure each moment you have with your pet, knowing they are in their sunset years
- We can feel good about giving a senior pet their best life, helping them live happily and healthily. Wild animals don’t get to enjoy “retirement.”
You probably want to add to this list of “Why We Love Senior Pets!” Visit our Facebook page to share your stories and thoughts.
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Skip the Scares for Your Pet This Halloween
October 14, 2024
Pet Safety Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe & Sound
Spooky season is here, and people love it! About 60% of Americans celebrate Halloween. But 0% of pets enjoy being frightened, so let’s review some safety tips.
Candy is Never Good for Pets
For the health and safety of your cat or dog, keep all candy away from them. Chocolate candy or sugar-free candy are toxic, while sticky candies can become stuck in teeth or digestive tracts. Here are some tips to help your pet avoid the candy:
- Make sure your kids understand that sharing candy with pets is dangerous
- Put the trick-or-treat bowl out of reach of your pet
- Store bags of candy in a cabinet your pet can’t reach
- If you have your leashed dog at a Halloween event, watch the ground for dropped candy
Costumes Aren’t for Every Pet
We love seeing dressed up dogs and cats as much as anyone– they are just so cute in costumes! But not every pet wants to join in the fun. If your pet resists wearing a costume, don’t force it. Here are more costume guidelines:
- Don’t put a mask on your pet for any length of time, even if your pet doesn’t seem to mind. Just long enough to snap a cute pic.
- Choose a comfortable costume that isn’t too tight and allows normal movement (walking, sitting, lying down).
- If your pet shows any discomfort or irritation, remove the costume right away
Home is the Safest Place
Halloween celebrations often happen at night, with large crowds. This experience isn’t for most pets, who are safest and happiest indoors at home. If you’re welcoming trick-or-treaters or going to a party, create a safe space in your home where your pet won’t come face-to-face with strangers.
For more Halloween safety tips, check out these articles:
Wishing you and your pet a happy and safe Halloween!
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5 Adoptable Dogs from Animal Friends Humane Society
October 3, 2024
During October, we highlight a few amazing shelter dogs looking for a loving home. It’s Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, and this time, we’re featuring five pups from Animal Friends Humane Society in Hamilton, OH.
Let’s get started with this good boy, Chief.
3-Year-Old Chief
Chief’s owner had to surrender this beautiful boy. He’s looking for an active family to have fun with! He’s been at the shelter since August and looks forward to meeting you. Here are a few details:
“He’s super observant and very high energy. He’s naturally attuned to kids and would make an incredible playmate for school aged kiddos. His second favorite jobs is herding his people. His ideal home has little ones and someone who is around during the day. He’s a friendly pup and loves to give kisses. Chief is really smart and already knows sit, down, come, leave it, drop it, shake, all done, and ball commands. He needs some reinforcement with stay. He will paw you when he needs to go outside. He is house trained and doesn’t have accidents.”
Learn more about Chief…
3-Year-Old Eugene
Not only is Eugene sweet and adorable, but his adoption fee has been paid for by an Animal Friends Humane Society donor. He doesn’t seem to get along with cats, but has enjoyed the company of another dog in his foster home. AFHS also adds:
“Eugene is a very sweet, calm, houseguest. He’s house trained, and doesn’t mess with anything if left alone. Eugene is darling and would just love someone to be his companion.”
Learn more about Eugene…
3-Year-Old Luna
Luna came to AFHS in July as a stray. When the shelter called her owners, they didn’t want her back! How terribly sad. She’s such a sweet girl, and here’s more information:
“She recently went on a dog date and they said she was great with the kids, their Pomeranian dog, and everyone she met. She seemed house trained and walked well on the leash. She enjoyed playing with the other dog and going for a walk at the park.”
Learn more about Luna…
7-Year-Old Marley
Marley is a cuddler! He’s a little older and slower, but that much sweeter. He’s been with AFHS since September and it currently being fostered. Here’s what his foster family says about him:
“Introducing Marley, a delightful companion ready to steal your heart! This charming dog has settled into his foster home beautifully and is showing off his sweet personality every day. He’s eager to embrace life and all the love it has to offer!”
Learn more about Marley…
3-Year-Old Deidre
Deidre is an active girl with lots of energy! She’s also been looking for her forever family since December of last year. Maybe she’s just the friend you’ve been looking for. More about Deidre:
“I love hiking, creeking, and anything that involves being in water or in the woods! I know basic commands although heel is not my forte. My date says I do pretty good on a leash once I get my wiggles out. My date also says that I do well with car rides and older kids! I have a special heart on the back of my head because I am so sweet!”
Learn more about Deidre…
If Chief, Eugene, Marley, Luna or Deidre have spoken to your heart, reach out to Animal Friends Humane Society. You’ll want to learn more about the shelter’s adoption policies, and fill out an adoption application form. And until October 15, dog adoptions are only $25!
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Meet 4 Dogs Ready for Adoption
September 26, 2024
Celebrate ‘Adopt a Shelter Dog’ Month with Animal Adoption Foundation
October in Ohio is the perfect time for bonfires, flannel, fall parties and… learning about wonderful shelter dogs! It’s Adopt a Shelter Dog month. Let’s check in with Animal Adoption Foundation for four awesome pups ready to find their forever families.
A Beagle Named Copper
Copper is named for his beautiful coat color. He is a medium-sized male dog– and just look at his beautiful, soulful eyes. He’s house-trained and gets along with other dogs and cats. He seems like he would be an adventurous, loyal friend!
Learn More about Copper…
A Spaniel Mix Named Corky
This beautiful boy is named Corky. We love his unusual coat pattern. He’s an adult, medium-sized dog. His soft ears are just begging to be rubbed, and we hope he gets to cuddle up on his new family’s couch soon!
Learn More about Corky…
A Labrador Retriever Mix Named Cricket
AAF shares this information about curious and inquisitive Cricket:
“This sweet girl was surrendered by her owner due to financial constraints. She has good energy and needs a home where she can be active.”
She doesn’t seem to get along with cats, so take that into consideration.
Learn More about Cricket…
A Boxer Lab Mix Named JoBee
What a sweet, silly face! JoBee is a young Boxer-Lab mix, born in 2020. He’s friendly with other dogs, but would prefer a home without cats. AAF shares:
“He was found as a stray in Indiana by another rescue group, who brought him to AAF. He is a friendly boy, with plenty of energy to run and play. He has dog friends here at AAF and is also treat motivated…. He also needs a home without kids or kids that are older than 12.”
Learn More about JoBee…
We hope you enjoyed learning more about Copper, Corky, Cricket and JoBee. If one of these pups would be a welcome addition to your family, reach out to Animal Adoption Foundation. Or, share their stories with anyone you know looking to adopt a dog.
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