The Best Cat and Dog Food by Brand Names
When it comes to pet food, the “cat”—or “dog” is out of the bag, and the pet food industry is now exposed. I am always suspicious of lists that claim to name the best pet food because I usually determine the list was sponsored by advertising from Purina or Friskies. Also, if a research company […]
Pet Food: The Good, The Bad, and the Inexplicable
First, the good news. Back in the late 1970s-early 1980s an undercover reporter exposed a secret practice used in the pet food industry. Unfortunately, the unsuspecting public including trusting pet owners were not in on the secret. Have you ever wondered what ever happens to all the dead animals picked up from animal shelters, veterinarians, […]
Older Adults and Pet Loss
Older adults experience more losses in a shorter period of time than anyone else. They often live alone and have less and less social contact. They go out less, and the sense of isolation and loneliness increases. Depression among the elderly has been called “an epidemic” (Ballinger, B. 2009. www.agingcare.com). It comes as no surprise […]
Hospice for Animals?
When a pet has been diagnosed with a life-diminishing or terminal disease, the decisions facing the animal’s caregiver can seem epic. Advances in veterinary medicine have helped animals live longer lives, but debilitating conditions such as arthritis, organ failure and cancer are now more common. If an animal is in pain or suffering, euthanasia is […]