For one reason or another, senior pets are often overlooked by prospective adopters. But, as supporters of animal welfare and, since November is designated as Adopt a Senior Pet Month, we’re here to tell you – senior pets make GREAT companion animals. And the truth is, unless more people are willing to give them a chance – they might stay at the shelter forever! On the plus side, this means that if you are looking for
Feline stomatitis is a common, painful and very serious oral inflammation that can affect cats of all breeds and ages, although some breeds such as Himalayans, Persians, and Somalis are more prone to developing symptoms than others. There is no single specific cause associated with stomatitis (also known as chronic gingivostomatitis or CGS), though the buildup of plaque triggers the initial inflammation. With some cases, it is thought there is an autoimmune component to this disease,
It’s a pretty unpleasant occurrence, but peeing inside the house is an issue most pet owners have to deal with at some point in time. While it’s a common problem with puppies and kittens, the issue should subside once they’re properly trained. If your adult pet has suddenly begun passing urine indoors, however, there’s usually a basic behavioral snag or an underlying medical issue that’s causing the problem. In this blog we’ll take a look at
It’s no secret that black cats are considered bad luck. And, sadly, they’re among the least popular pets at animal shelters throughout the US – with their colorful counterparts seen as more desirable. Being an organization committed to animal welfare and adoption (and with Halloween coming up), Activ4Pets decided it’s time to bust the myth. These beautiful creatures deserve forever homes just as much as any other shelter pet!
MIAMI, FL, October 23, 2017 – Open enrollment has kicked off for many healthcare organizations and corporations across the US. Among the insurance copays and pension plans, several companies are standing out by providing pet-friendly benefits for the very first time. With over 14,000 employees, the University of Miami (UM) has long been
Dogs are wonderful pets but some breeds have earned terrible reputations due to their stern appearance and occasional behavior issues. It’s important to note, however, that any dog can attack or bite, emphasizing the need to train and socialize your pup properly during those crucial early months. Every dog owner has been in a situation where another canine has become aggressive. And, if we’re honest, this usually has very little to do with specific breeds –
It’s easy to arrive home from a long day at work and curl up on the couch for the rest of the night with your dog. Though, if you’re being honest with yourself, you really should get outside and play with your dog before you settle in for the night. If you’ve been at a desk all day and your dog has been in a crate, there’s tremendous value in taking the time to exercise with
So you’re thinking about getting a new dog, huh? Congratulations! A new pup is bound to bring you and your family closer together and provide some extra companionship for everyone. Question is: which breed are you thinking about getting? Do you know which qualities you’re looking for, or do you want a dog to please everyone?
Infections of the upper respiratory tract (URT) are quite common in dogs and usually affect young pups, unvaccinated dogs and those with poor immune mechanisms. Unlike cats, dogs rarely develop asthma or allergic respiratory disease. In cases of respiratory tract infections, two signs are most commonly noticed – labored breathing (dyspnoea) and increased breathing rate (tachypnea).
Diseases which can be transferred from animals to humans are known as zoonotic diseases. Humans can acquire these infections through a variety of means including airborne pathogens or through bites and saliva.
Many of our members adopt adult shelter dogs having never owned a pet before. And, while we commend them for their good deed, it is important to point out there will be a period of transition and it’s likely there will be a few challenges along the way. Understandably, some shelter dogs will experience stress when they move to a new home and consequently might be apprehensive or fearful about social interactions with people and other animals. Don’t be put off. It’s your job to show them a loving environment in which
The condition where urinary calculi (uroliths) or stones form in the urinary tract is called urolithiasis. Just like in humans, the disease can cause extreme discomfort during urination and other associated symptoms. Uroliths can form anywhere in the dog’s urinary system (kidneys, ureters, bladder or urethra) but in 85% of cases the stones occur in the bladder. Stones are made up of minerals, commonly calcium oxalate, struvite, urate and cystine in dogs.
Most pet owners recognize emergency circumstances when they absolutely must take their pet to the vet – difficulty breathing, vomiting or consuming toxic substances, for instance. But there are less obvious indications that your pet might have underlying medical issues that need to be dealt with.
Cats in particular are masters at hiding ill health so it becomes even more challenging for pet parents. Throw in their aversion to car travel and it’s too easy to avoid
Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC) is an inflammatory condition of the bladder. And, as the term “idiopathic” implies, it isn’t exactly known what causes the disease. FIC is one of many medical issues that fall under the banner of feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) and some veterinarians may use the two terms interchangeably. Generally speaking, cats between the ages of 2 – 6 years are at risk and both genders can be affected. Cats suffering with
Leptospirosis is a zoonotic infectious disease caused by leptospira bacteria which affect domestic pets and wild animals including rats, raccoons, opossums, deer, skunks, cattle, pigs and foxes. Wild animals often function as asymptomatic reservoir hosts for leptospirosis, and as dogs and people gain greater exposure to wildlife, their risk of getting leptospirosis increases. The disease is somewhat rare in cats, but felines do produce antibodies against leptospirosis serovars (bacteria).
SAN DIEGO and SAN FRANCISCO, July 19, 2017
Pet tech brands, PetCoach and Whistle, today announced the finalists for Pet Project 2017, the first national pitch event dedicated to innovations in the pet industry announced on June 6, 2017.
The inaugural venture program invites entrepreneurs to pitch a new service or product in a private forum for the chance to win a $25,000 “no strings attached” cash prize, and get feedback from industry experts within Mars Petcare and Petco. The 2017 finalists are:
Over the past 20 years, obesity has increased in dogs and cats, despite myriad efforts by veterinarians, veterinary societies, academicians, technicians, drug companies, and entire organizations devoted to the problem (e.g. the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention). The question is: Why? In my experience it is usually down to perceptions of the issue and willingness to change behaviors.
Hypothyroidism refers to the insufficient production of T3 and T4 hormones from the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped organ located in the neck. This can lead to a decreased metabolic rate in pets – meaning they don’t burn calories as quickly.
Raw food diets have gained huge popularity among dog owners in recent years. Supposedly because they are more in line with what a canine’s ancestors (wolves) consume. But haven’t dogs’ digestive systems adapted since they first became domesticated? And, if this is true, wouldn’t feeding them foods they’re no longer used to eating be harmful? Let me be clear: raw diets are a fad, and they may be endangering your pet.
The idea of pet adoption is appealing for most people. And with good reason – there are many fine shelter animals out there just waiting for a new home. And who wouldn’t want a cute new dog/cat/bunny/parrot in their life? But before you jump head first into adoption, there’s a few important things to consider. First and foremost – are you and your family ready for the responsibility of adding a family member – a new
Activ4Pets, providers of online and mobile platforms that give pet parents easy access to their pet’s health information along with web-based veterinary consultations, today announced the launch of its corporate partnership program. The program allows companies to provide employees with access to a suite of veterinary and pet health management tools, including low cost e-consults with licensed veterinarians.
There are plenty of good reasons to love your pets. They’re always so happy to see you, want endless cuddles and obey your every command. Well, mostly. With Mother’s Day fast approaching, we thought we take a look at all those silly but amusing reasons why pets make great ‘children’. Now, this isn’t a competition between human and animal children, just a bit of fun.
New Appointee brings wealth of veterinary knowledge, experience, and expertise to help advance veterinary telemedicine platform, helping pet parents engage proactively with pet health
LOS ANGELES, CA. May 5th, 2017 – Activ4Pets, provider of online and mobile platforms that give pet parents easy access to their pet’s health information along with web-based veterinary consultations, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Kevin Ross Kimber, M.S., D.V.M. as its new Chief Veterinary Medical Officer. Dr.
Between work, school, kids and of course, those dreaded errands, taking time to go see the vet can seem like a luxury for many of us pet parents. It’s not that we don’t want to go, just that finding time can be tricky.
Diabetes has risen sharply in our feline friends over the past decade or so – attributed to more cats being overweight. It can be a very serious and sometimes life-threatening disease. But, if caught and treated early, remission is possible. Though, your cat can become insulin-dependent for the rest of their life should diagnosis and treatment be delayed.
So what is feline diabetes? The most simple way to describe diabetes is with two words – Sugar and
Activ Doctors Online was once again proud sponsor of the 2017 Business of Health Care Conference, hosted by the University of Miami School of Business Administration this past Friday.
The theme for this year’s conference was the ‘Post Election’ evolution of the healthcare industry and attracted more than 800 attendees. The event was organized and hosted by Prof. Steve Ullman, Director of the Center for Health Sector Management and Policy in the School of Business
New Relief staffing service offers traditional and virtual veterinary staffing services to maximize clinic time, service, and revenue.
LOS ANGELES, CA. March 1, 2017 – Activ4Vets, providers of veterinary relief staffing services, introduces three comprehensive solutions for veterinary staffing and consultation needs; Traditional Relief Vet Staffing, Online Relief Vet Solutions and Peer-to-Peer Specialty Consults. With the number of pet owners growing yearly, and pet parents becoming increasingly engaged with their pet’s ongoing health and wellbeing,
Favorite pet health tool offers reduced cost services to adopters to help them engage and manage the health of their new pet
LOS ANGELES, CA. February 22, 2017 – Activ4Pets, providers of online and mobile platforms that give pet parents easy access to their pet’s health information along with web-based veterinary consultations, today announced its new shelter partnership program to provide their platform to pet adopters and shelters across the nation. Shelters that
Did you know dogs can get the flu, too? Yes, just like their owners, dogs can contract influenza causing similar symptoms. Canine influenza is a relatively new virus, having only developed in the last 12 years. But it’s becoming a growing concern.
These days most pet diseases are prevented with vaccination and it’s easy to take the wonder of immunity for granted. Basically, immunity can be summed up with one word: “prevention”. From a veterinarian’s perspective, it is always easier to prevent a disease rather than treat it. Vaccines stimulate your pet’s own
Our Feline friends are generally healthy and well fed in their indoor living environment. However, there are a few internal diseases that are common among middle aged and older cats.
“Why do I need Pet Insurance?” Is something I hear a lot. But, yes, pet insurance is very important! Policies stuffed with confusing jargon (co-pays, deductibles and caps) alone can be enough to put some pet parents off from signing up. Then there’s the costs involved. But our beloved furry family members deserve the very best. After all, they frequently do unexpected things, putting their own health – and sometimes your wallet – on the line.
The year is moving fast and, like it or not, 2017 will be upon us very soon. Pets bring so much joy to our lives so it’s important we take their general wellbeing seriously. If you’re a pet owner, you’re in the unique position to improve your furry companion’s health with a few simple steps!
Maybe your pet’s a little overweight and you keep meaning to do something about it. Why not use the new year as
With Hanukkah, Christmas and the New Year fast approaching, isn’t it time you started prepping for the Holidays with your pets? You don’t want them feeling left out now, do you? From diet to dropping temperatures, there’s a lot of considerations to make for your furry family members. After all, you can never be too prepared when your pets are concerned!
So you’re heading back home to spend Thanksgiving with relatives. But, this being a family holiday, you don’t want to leave your fur babies behind! Maybe you’re taking a short drive, or perhaps you’re flying. How ever you’re getting to your destination of choice, Activ4Pets wants to provide the very best pet travel advice.
Have you ever needed to be in two places at once? Like at work and the veterinarian’s office? What if I told you that it’s actually possible to do both…
Pets are our beloved family members and we want the absolute best for them. Maybe they have an immediate health issue – like a limp or loss of appetite – one you might not necessarily class as an emergency. While you want to resolve the issue as quickly as possible, it might not always be practical to visit the vet right away.
Of course,
November 6 -12 marks Animal Shelter Appreciation Week. And, as an organization dedicated to making life better for all pets we work closely with many major shelters and humane societies around the world and we appreciate and support them throughout the year.
We are delighted to be partnering with our Miami neighbors The Cat Network, Inc. Through their humane practice of sterilization, vaccination, and release The Cat Network is committed to reducing the overpopulation of stray and feral cats in South Florida. Thanks to their commendable work, thousands of cats and kittens have been spared a life of neglect, cruelty, or euthanization. As well as their education program, TCN offers low-cost spay and neuter services and a community of support to assist cats and their human counterparts.
The new partnership will provide
I love Halloween! The kids have a great time and so do the parents and neighbors. It’s always fun to see the local Trick-or-Treaters dressed in their spooky costumes, hunting for candy.
Now let us focus on the other family members, our beloved pets. There are some health and wellbeing tips to note during Halloween.
From time to time you may notice ‘gunk’ accumulating in your beloved pet’s eyes. But what causes it and is it serious?
Is your dog or cat a little on the chunky side? Just kidding! Even though I’m a licensed veterinarian, I must admit my Labrador Retriever, Bridger, was once very overweight. I mean huge. Obese. And yes indeed, chunky!
It was not his fault at all, although he does love to eat. He would pounce on the food bowl and be done in a jiffy. But who was it that overfed him? Me, of course! Pet owners really enjoy watching their furry family members eat ravenously. But what about their health? Obesity is a
September is National Preparedness Month. Here are some simple, yet essential tips for safeguarding your most vulnerable family members – your pets – during an emergency.
We all know how adorable and loving our pets are. But did you know by owning a pet you’re already leading a healthier lifestyle than those who don’t?
Well, it’s true. These benefits include improvements to both your mental and physical health. So now you have a new reason to be thankful for your pets!
This past weekend was a HUGE one for animal welfare initiatives. As well as the many Clear the Shelter pet adoption events happening around the country, our partner, the Humane Society for Tacoma-Pierce County held its annual Dog-A-Thon on Saturday, July 23rd! And it was a great success!
Exciting news: The Secret Life of Pets is released in theaters this weekend. And it’s probably got you wondering: “What does my pet get up to after I leave the house?”
The best kind of days are the ones you can dedicate to the love of your life, your pup. And, when it comes to spending quality time with your best friend, the options are endless.
Friday, June 24 is going to be one of the happiest weekdays of the year because it’s Take Your Dog to Work Day! But will all those excitable canines be too disruptive for your non-pet owner colleagues, or are there benefits to a pet-friendly workplace?
The dangers of secondhand smoke are well documented in people – but have you ever stopped to think what it might be doing to your pets?
Medical errors are, unfortunately, part of life. But thankfully new technology systems are coming to the rescue, with electronic medical records and telemedicine platforms to help Doctors and Veterinarians limit potential errors and track health information more accurately.
We had so much fun doing our National Dog Day Photo Contest, that we just had to do another! Not that anyone needs an excuse to take pictures for their pet… but dress them up in silly/scary/fun costumes and then take pictures? BRILLIANT!
Being a cat owner has benefits. Serious benefits. Science-backed benefits:
Knowing this, you want to keep your feline purring for years to come.
On Saturday 9/12 Activ4Pets was thrilled to attend the second Countdown 2 Zero event at Palm Beach County Convention Center – the largest one-day adoption event in Palm Beach County.
Hey, pet parents! We’re so excited about National Dog Day, we are going to celebrate all week long with a photo contest!
It’s super simple!
The winner will be determined on Friday, August 28th at 4pm EDT.
In the past few generations, pets have moved from the backyard to the bedroom (and in some cases, the bed). An estimated 56% of American households own some kind of pet. Whether it is a dog, cat, bird or something more exotic, animals are now part of the family, which means that people are sometimes willing to do – and spend – almost anything to take care of them. For 2015, the
Image via Petco
Great news for residents of Boca Raton, Florida – your local Petco store now offers Activ4Pets memberships with all their adopted animals
We’ve all been there – Saturday night, PJ’s on watching Disney movies with the kids (or the dog, or Ben and Jerry) and the thought pops into your head:
“Wouldn’t it be cool to have [insert character name] as a pet?”
The answer is yes, it would be cool. Very cool. But just how cool would it be? And what happens when it stops being cool? We decided to rank Disney characters on their suitability as pets, and
Let’s face it – at some point, we’ve all wondered why our pets behave a certain way. So, in this blog, we’ll provide explanations and insights for some of the most common pet behaviors, observed in cats, dogs and birds.
The holidays give you a great opportunity to relax and enjoy festivities with friends and family members. Unfortunately, they can also pose some fairly serious health and safety hazards for your pets. In this blog, we’ll provide some tips on how to keep your pets happy and healthy during holiday celebrations.
A mobile Pet Health Record (PHR) is, conceivably, one of the most useful resources for pet parents. Think of it like a baby book for your pet, storing every piece of health information – from first to most recent vaccination, surgeries, allergies and more – in a cloud for ease of access. PHRs are easy to use, accessible via mobile phone, completely secure and, best of all, Activ4Pets collects all the data on your behalf.
In this blog we walk you through the main benefits of a PHR. We’ve also brought in our Chief
An army of ticks and fleas just waiting for your pets to brush up against them! At least, that’s the image in my head when I let my pets out in the backyard. But what if there were plants that could actually repel ticks and fleas, like naturally? Well, here are 4 pet-safe plants that do exactly that!
The Activ4Pets team was thrilled to attend the Lucky 13 Casino Night on Saturday 6/6/15. The event, set up in aid of Pets’ Trust Miami, brought together some of the region’s foremost animal activists and was hosted by Mercedes Benz, Cutler Bay.
Nothing shows off a healthy looking dog quite like nice shiny coat and healthy skin. But let’s face it, dogs are messy and it can be hard to keep that coat looking good. Providing you aren’t letting your dog roll around in puddles o’ mud each day here’s what you can do to maintain a health coat for your dog:
Going somewhere? What about the pets?
There’s only one logical answer to that question – bring them with you of course! More and more people, and businesses, are embracing the idea that pets should be able to enjoy the family vacation too! In the spirit of this we thought we’d throw together a bunch of pet friendly stuff to help you plan your next, pets included, vacation.
Any dog can bite, even the cute and fluffy ones! Regardless of size, dog bites can cause serious injury particularly to small children, who are also the most common victims. The dogs are also the victims, often getting euthanized after a biting incident. However, it’s good news that the majority of dog bites are totally preventable.
Image via WPLG Local 10
Below are some hard facts about animal shelters right here in the U.S. (Source, ASPCA)
If you are thinking about adding a four-legged member to your family, what better day than today to do it – National Adopt A Shelter Pet Day. Today is all about generating awareness of the millions of animals in the U.S. that are abandoned, lost or given up each year that need a home. The majority of these animals are healthy, full of love and ready to bring their new forever family endless happiness and
Image via