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Category: Pet Owner Concerns

  • How a Self-Feeder Can Simplify Your Pet’s Mealtime Routine

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    If you’ve ever been woken up by a hungry cat yelling in your face or a dog pacing by the empty food bowl like it’s a crime scene, you’re not alone. Feeding pets on a consistent schedule can be tricky. Life gets busy—early meetings, late workdays, weekend trips, or just the occasional much-needed sleep-in. But your pet doesn’t know any of that. They just want to know why breakfast isn’t served at exactly 7:02 a.m.

    That’s where a self-feeder seriously saves the day. It’s one of those simple products that makes you wonder why you didn’t get one sooner. Automatic pet feeders are designed to keep your pet’s mealtime on track, whether you’re home or not. You can pre-program feeding times and portion sizes, so your pet gets exactly what they need—no more, no less—right on schedule.

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    This is especially helpful if your pet has specific dietary needs or if you’re trying to manage their weight. For grazers like some cats or small dogs, you can set multiple small meals throughout the day. For pets who like to scarf their food in seconds, portion control helps slow things down and avoid those dreaded post-meal tummy issues.

    Some models even let you record your voice, so your pet hears a familiar “Come eat!” even when you’re away. Others come with app control, so if your plans change, you can update their schedule from your phone. Pretty amazing, right?

    Not only does it make feeding more consistent and stress-free, but it also adds a little peace of mind. No more racing home to feed the dog. No more guilt when your cat gives you the side-eye because dinner was five minutes late. It’s one less thing to worry about—while keeping your pet happy, healthy, and well-fed.

    So if you’re juggling a full schedule, managing a picky eater, or just want to make life a little easier, a self-feeder is 100% worth it. You’ll save time, reduce stress, and give your pet the reliable routine they love.

    Go ahead—make mealtime automatic. You deserve the break, and your pet deserves the consistency. 🐾

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Struggling with Pet Hair? Here’s a Robo Vacuum for Every Budget

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    If you have pets, you already know that keeping your floors clean can feel like a never-ending chore. Pet hair, litter bits, and food crumbs seem to show up out of nowhere. That’s why a lot of people turn to robot vacuums—and two popular options people often compare are the AIRROBO and the Dreame L40 Ultra. One is budget-friendly, and the other is a high-end model with extra features. But which one is right for you?

    Let’s start with the AIRROBO. It costs about $100 and is great if you’re looking for a basic vacuum that gets the job done. It has strong suction for everyday messes like pet hair, dust, and food crumbs. It works well on hard floors and low carpets. It doesn’t have fancy features like smart mapping or self-emptying, but it’s easy to use, quiet, and a good choice if you live in a small home or apartment with one or two pets.

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    Now let’s look at the Dreame L40 Ultra, which costs about $600. This one is built for homes with a lot of pet mess. It has much stronger suction and a self-cleaning base that empties the dustbin for you. That means less work on your end, especially if you have multiple pets that shed a lot. It also has advanced features like smart room mapping, mop mode, and better obstacle detection—so it can clean around water bowls, toys, and furniture without getting stuck. It’s a good pick for busy pet owners or anyone with a larger space.

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    So, which one should you choose?

    If you just want a simple robot vacuum that keeps the pet hair under control without spending a lot of money, the AIRROBO is a great value. But if you’re tired of cleaning up after your pets all day and want something that does most of the work for you, the Dreame L40 Ultra is worth the higher price.

    Both are solid choices—it really depends on your home, your pets, and your budget.

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • The Downsides of Adopting an Old Dog

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    I recently wrote an article about the reasons why you should consider adopting an older dog. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.

    If you are able, adopting an older dog may be the best thing you can do. However, it isn’t for everyone. You must decide for yourself and your family whether it is the right decision. There are some downsides to consider.

    Here are some reasons why you might not want to adopt an older dog.

    Older dogs are often set in their ways. 

    If they have always been a barker, you are not going to be able to change that. You may also struggle if they urinate everywhere to mark their territory, beg for food, or exhibit other habits that you may not want to deal with.

    It can be really hard to potty-train an older dog. 

    If you get a dog that has spent its whole life outdoors, you may struggle with potty training. He or she may always go to the bathroom in your home, because they never had to hold it.

    You may also end up dealing with incontinence issues. 

    As dogs age, they are more likely to have urinary problems. You may be looking at dogs that leak when they sleep (which you may be able to help), as well as dogs that dribble urine as they walk around your home.

    And other health issues. 

    Just like humans, older dogs often experience numerous health issues. This can be as simple as vision and hearing loss, though you may also find yourself dealing with arthritis and kidney or liver problems. It isn’t always cheap to treat some of these conditions.

    You may notice that an older dog takes longer to settle into your home. 

    It takes time for any dog (or cat) to adjust to a new home, but you may notice that your older dog may not feel at home for several weeks (or even months).

    You also won’t have your dog as long as you would a puppy. 

    Though puppies can die young, most of the time, older dogs don’t have as long to live as one that you would get when they are a puppy. It can be heartbreaking to fall in love with a dog and only have them for a year or two.

    Though you may want to give an older dog a good life, the truth is that it might not be right for you and your family. Not only will you only have him or her for a short time (compared to a puppy), but you may also struggle with teaching him or her new tricks. Potty training can be particularly challenging for older dogs, and some may even lose their ability to control their bladder. You may also find yourself dealing with health problems that can be quite costly to treat!

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    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • The Best Pet Hair Hack You Didn’t Know You Needed: A Robo Vacuum

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    If you’re a pet parent, you already know the mess is real. One minute your floors are clean, and the next? It looks like your dog exploded in a cloud of fur. Or maybe your cat took a joyride through their litter box and tracked tiny granules from room to room. Whether it’s tumbleweeds of fur, crumbs from treat time, or a mysterious trail of fluff, cleaning up after your pets can feel like a full-time job.

    Most pet parents complain that they spend way too much time vacuuming—like, daily. Most have multiple dogs and cats, who shed all over the floor. You may feel like your floors are never clean for more than an hour.

    Enter: the robo vacuum.

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    Many pet parents are skeptical at first. Could a little robot really keep up with the chaos of pet life? But after just one week, you will be sold. These smart little machines are designed to do the dirty work for you, and they’re surprisingly good at it. Most will quietly zip around picking up fur, dust, kibble crumbs, and even those rogue litter bits that somehow end up in the hallway. It maps the room, avoids furniture, and even scoots under the couch where I never want to reach.

    Even better? Some of them allow you to set it on a schedule. So while you are out walking the dog or grabbing groceries, the vacuum is at home doing its thing. You can come back to clean floors with zero effort. And the best part—it’s quiet. Like, sneaky quiet. Cats barely flinches anymore when it starts its round.

    If you’re someone who’s constantly vacuuming, sweeping, or apologizing to guests for the “dog glitter” on your rug, a robo vacuum might be the upgrade you didn’t know you needed. It’s not just about cleaner floors—it’s about getting some of your time (and sanity) back.

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    So go ahead, give your broom a break and let a robot handle the mess. You deserve it.

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Helping Lazy Cats Lose Weight: What Actually Works

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    We all love a fluffy cat—but when “fluffy” turns into “my vet said he’s obese,” it’s time for a reality check. It happens. One day, your cat is all soft and squishy in a cute way… and the next, he or she is struggling to jump onto the couch and getting winded chasing a toy for 30 seconds. Extra weight on cats isn’t just cosmetic—it can lead to joint pain, diabetes, and a shorter lifespan. But here’s the good news: you can help your cat slim down without turning your home into a kitty boot camp.

    The first thing you can easily change is feeding. Many owners free-feed and fill the bowl constantly. Guess what, your cat is going to eat ALL day long!

    Your best bet is to use a timed feeder that dispenses small meals throughout the day. It helps control portions without leaving her hungry or begging at 5 a.m. You can set it and forget it, and your cat still feels like they’re getting regular meals.

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    To slow things down and add a little mental stimulation, you may even want to try a puzzle feeder. It turns mealtime into a game, encouraging your cat to “hunt” for her food. This not only slows her eating, but also keeps her brain engaged. Bonus: she’s a little less bored (and less likely to knock stuff off counters out of spite).

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    Of course, food’s only half the story. Movement matters, even for indoor cats. You should start with 5-minute play sessions, once or twice a day, using a wand toy and a low-speed laser toy. She didn’t exactly do backflips, but it got her up and stretching, swatting, and moving her body again—which was a win in itself.

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    Helping a cat lose weight is definitely a slow and steady kind of journey. But with a few small changes—better feeding routines, a bit more play, and the right tools—you can absolutely help your kitty feel better, move easier, and stay healthier long term. Plus, you’ll probably enjoy watching them rediscover a little kitten-like spark along the way.

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Reason to Adopt an Older Dog

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    I recently wrote an article about why an older cat may be a better fit for you and your family than a kitten. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.

    The same could be said of older dogs. You and your family may want to consider helping an older dog enjoy the rest of its life with a family, rather than living in a kennel.

    Unsure about what you should do? Here are some reasons to consider an older dog instead of a puppy.

    You could save a life.

    The truth is that most older dogs don’t get adopted, as quickly as younger dogs and puppies. In fact, they have about a twenty-five percent adoption rate, compared to the sixty percent that young adults and puppies have.

    Though most people assume older dogs have problems, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, there are times when their owners had to move and couldn’t take them. Sometimes their owners die and there is nobody who is able to take them in.

    In fact, you most likely will get a fully-trained dog. 

    Older dogs are usually housebroken, so you won’t have to worry about messes in your home. They are usually able to walk on a leash and know a few basic commands, such as sit.

    You know exactly what you are getting. 

    When you get a puppy from a shelter, most of the time they can only guess what breed your new puppy is. This means that the cute little puppy you adopted may turn into thirty, fifty, or over one hundred pounds! When you get an adult, you know exactly how big they are going to get because they are done growing!

    You also have a good idea of their temperament. 

    Though the dog may be scared at the shelter, you will be able to get a good idea of how he or she is going to behave. You may be able to find a calm dog who would just be happy to lay beside you on the couch in the evenings.

    Puppies can be destructive. 

    Puppies go through a lot of stages, including the teething stage where you can’t leave them alone for even a second! They will chew anything that they can get in their mouth (and then some)!

    They can also be destructive when they are playing. They can mess up furniture with their jumping and running around. Puppies often knock things off of counters, as well as overturn objects while they are running throughout the house.

    Though activity is a good thing, the truth is that older dogs are less likely to be destructive to your home. A good walk or two and some ball playing should be enough activity for your older friend.

    This can often make them better pets for young children. 

    Young children can be hard on puppies. They may pick them up and carrying them around, dropping them or hurting them. Though your older dog may need some care due to arthritis, your children will be able to play with him or her.

    It might be cheaper to adopt an older dog. 

    Many shelters don’t charge as much for older pets as they do for their younger versions. In fact, there are some places that waive any fees if you are willing to take an older dog into your home!

    If you have decided to open up your home to another dog, you may want to look at an older one. You could save a life by adopting him or her. You are also going to have a good idea of what you are going to get. An older dog is already fully grown, so you don’t have to worry that your sweet little puppy has Great Dane in him or her! His or her behavior isn’t likely to change either, so you can decide what temperament you need to have in your life.

    You also won’t have to worry about going through the teething and potty training stages, which can be very destructive and time-consuming. Instead, you might just have a dog who loves to lay beside you on the couch. Even better, it may cost you less to adopt an older dog. You may even be able to take one for free!

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    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Helping Your Dog Slim Down: Easy Tips That Actually Work

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    We don’t like to talk about it, but sometimes our dogs get a little fluffier than they should. Whether it’s too many treats, too few walks, or just slowing down with age, extra weight can sneak up fast—and it can lead to joint issues, low energy, and even a shorter lifespan. The good news? A few small, consistent changes can make a big difference.

    One of the first things that helped in our house was switching to a slow-feeder bowl. If your dog hoovers food in 20 seconds flat, a slow feeder makes them work a little harder, eat more mindfully, and feel fuller with less. It’s a small change with a big impact.

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    Another helpful addition: low-calorie training treats. I still want to reward good behavior (and let’s be honest, sneak a snack here and there), but swapping to lighter treats keeps the calories in check. Bonus points if they’re crunchy and satisfying—my dog doesn’t seem to notice the difference.

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    Lastly, if your pup isn’t getting as much activity as they should, a tug rope or interactive toy can help sneak in some movement, even indoors. You don’t need to go on long hikes every day—but even 10–15 minutes of active play can help burn off extra energy (and calories).

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    Helping your dog lose weight doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A few tweaks to their routine, the right feeding tools, and some extra playtime can go a long way. Start small, be patient, and remember—it’s not about perfection, just progress. Your dog will thank you with more tail wags and longer walks together. 🐾

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Helping Older Cats Stay Playful: Low-Effort Toys That Work

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    As cats get older, their days start to revolve a lot more around naps, warm sunspots, and the occasional slow stretch. It’s sweet, of course—but just like senior dogs, older cats still need regular activity to stay healthy, mobile, and mentally sharp. The trick is finding ways to engage them that are gentle on aging joints and don’t require kitten-level energy.

    One of the easiest wins in our house has been a slow-moving laser toy with adjustable speeds. It gives them that classic hunting thrill without expecting full-on zoomies. I usually set it to the lowest speed and let it do its thing while my cat crouches, stalks, and does the occasional pounce. It’s fun to watch, and even a few minutes keeps her alert and engaged.

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    We also rotate in interactive puzzle feeders that require light pawing or nudging to release treats or kibble. They’re perfect for adding a bit of mental stimulation without asking her to run or jump. It’s amazing how much time she’ll spend gently batting something around if snacks are involved.

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    And then there’s the old faithful: catnip toys. Even senior cats can’t resist a soft, crinkly, catnip-stuffed toy now and then. I’ve found that lightweight toys with a strong scent and soft fabric work best—something they can sniff, chew, and cuddle without much effort.

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    These aren’t intense workouts—they’re tiny, daily moments of movement and curiosity. And that’s really all senior cats need. If you’ve got an older kitty who’s been a little too chill lately, try adding in just one or two of these simple activities. It’s a great way to help them stay sharp, mobile, and just a little bit playful—even in their golden years.

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • What Breed of Dog Should I Get?

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    Besides basic care, we often get asked about different breeds of dogs and cats. Clients want to make sure that they get the right dog or cat for their life, so they always ask to see if we can help them.

    I recently wrote an article about figuring out what breed of cat you should get. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.

    I know that you wanted to know about breeds, so I wrote another article about choosing the right breed of cat. Here is the article if you haven’t had a chance to read it.

    Now, when it comes to choosing the right breed of dog, it is similar to finding the right cat. Breed isn’t as important as some of the other factors.

    Here are some things that you need to think about before you stop and get the first cute puppy that you find!

    You should consider the size of the dog that you are going to have. 

    Puppies can be deceiving. Most puppies aren’t going to stay as little as they are now. You could get a puppy that grows up to be five pounds all the way up to over one hundred pounds!

    If you live in a smaller home, you probably won’t want to get a dog that is massive. A smaller dog will still be able to get plenty of energy out just running around your home.

    You also need to think about your lifestyle. 

    Do you have the energy for a puppy who needs to be played with constantly? Are you going to be able to work and then come home and play with a new puppy for a few hours? Or would you prefer an older or more laid back dog that would be happy to sit on the couch every night?

    Are you into hiking and want a companion to spend hours on the trail with a week? Do you want a walking companion for daily walks around the neighborhood? Do you have a fenced-in backyard where a dog can run around and play?

    If you have a lot of guests, you are going to want a dog or puppy that is as social as you are. If you want to be able to take your dog everywhere, you are going to need a more laid-back dog!

    Though you may like shaggy dogs, you need to think about the amount of grooming your new dog may need. 

    Although many dogs need regular baths and brushing, there are some that require more. Many dogs, like smaller dogs and doodles, need regular grooming appointments every six to twelve weeks. If you don’t have the funds or time for all of that extra work, you may want to stick to a breed that has short hair.

    You also don’t need to get a puppy. 

    Though puppies can be a lot of fun, they are a lot of work. There is nothing wrong with deciding that you want to try for an adult or mature dog. If you don’t have the time to devote to a puppy, older dogs need homes just as much as puppies do!

    Choosing the right breed of dog isn’t as important as the kind of dog that you get. You need to decide what size dog you want, as well as what type of hair. Do you want to spend hours brushing your dog’s hair, as well as taking him or her to the groomer on a regular basis?

    It would help if you also thought about your lifestyle. Do you have the time for a puppy? Or would an older dog suit your sedentary lifestyle? Do you have a small apartment? Or do you have a fenced-in yard where an active dog could go crazy?

    As long as you think carefully and pick wisely, any dog that you get will be lucky to have you (and you him or her)!

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    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • What Breed of Cat Should I Get?

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    I recently wrote an article because clients are always asking what breed of cat they should get. However, as I pointed out in that article, plenty of other factors are more important than breed. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out right here.

    That being said, many people want a certain breed of cat. Here are some common breeds you may be considering as you look for your next pet.

    Domestic Short-Hair (and Medium and Long-Hair). 

    Also known as the common cat, these cats are found all over the United States. They are often found on farms and homes throughout the United States.  They are easy to find (especially in spring) and can be cheaper than some of the other breeds that we will discuss.

    That being said, just because they are cheap (or free) doesn’t necessarily mean they will stay this way. I wrote an article about free kittens that you may want to check out before you head to the nearest farm for your next kitten.

    Persians.

    These cats are popular for their fluffy hair and round heads. They seem to be very calm and loving and can be a great addition to a family looking for a laid-back cat.

    Ragdolls. 

    Ragdolls are often known as “puppy cats” because of their dog-like temperament. They are very friendly, and it is easier to train than some of the other cats.

    Maine coons. 

    These cats are the largest domestic cats that you can find. They are very affectionate and friendly. They make a good pet for those looking for a smart cat that is easy to train.

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    Siamese. 

    These cats can be great companions because they are very social. They love attention and are very active.

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    That being said, it is often better not to be stuck on a certain breed of cat. Finding one that works well with your family and lifestyle is more important. You may find that a local kitten is going to be better for your family than a fancy breed of cat that you can find online. That being said, the shelter is also full of pure-bred cats that need someone to give them a chance at a better life!

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    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.