Despite advances in our knowledge of heartworm disease, including improved diagnostic tests and safer, more effective treatments, heartworm remains a major health threat for pets. The statistics are grim - as of 2019, there are no heartworm-free states in the lower 48 United States. And, according to the American Heartworm Society, more than 1 million pet cats and dogs in the United States are infected with heartworms.

Doggy day spas and designer cat collars are not the only path to making your pets feel pampered. Spoiling your furry besties can be simple…..

The most confident, easy-going dogs were likely socialized at a young age. Dogs learn how to interpret the world around them between the ages of 8 and 16 weeks. This is when they learn that other dogs can be friends and new people aren’t dangerous. But not all dogs are lucky enough to grow up in an environment where positive socialization occurred. For these dogs, new people and other dogs can be scary. Some react fearfully. Others turn their fear into aggression.

Ever notice your cat has more dandruff during the winter? Or that your dog is drinking more than usual when the temperatures plummet? Many pet owners may be surprised to learn that dehydration is as much of a risk in the winter as in the summer.

There are more than 76 million companion dogs living in households in the United States. Rural areas tend to have the highest percentages of dog ownership, but there are plenty of dogs living the big city life, as well.

Take a hike! No, we’re not trying to be rude. We mean it literally. In honor of National Take a Hike Day (Nov. 17), we're shining a spotlight on the benefits (both physical and mental) of hiking with your dog.

Does your dog leave a mess in the house if he’s been alone too long? Have you ever come home to find she’s tried to dig her way out of the backyard? Rather than being signs your pup is a “bad dog,” your pooch may be suffering from separation anxiety.

While many people realize the emotional and physical health benefits that having a pet can do for us - improved mood, decrease in blood pressure and cholesterol, among others - many of us don’t stop to think about making sure that our pets are just as much in need of those benefits for their own health and wellbeing. A healthier, happier pet allows for longevity of life, which presents us with the added benefit of them sticking around longer.

Giving dogs and cats toys to play with isn't only about making them happy. Toys, and playing in general, provide our pets with a way to meet some of their most elementary needs, from the need to be physically active to staying mentally stimulated.