Pets: Adopt, raise, train & keep your dogs and cats healthy - Dallas News | myFOXdfw.com

Pets really are like people's children, brain scans suggest

Brain scans are helping scientists better understand the bond between people and their beloved pets. More>>

Adopting a dog is the ultimate repurpose

How often do you get to make a difference to the world and save a life? Adopting a homeless dog is the perfect opportunity -- you don't even have to put on your Superman cape to be a hero.
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Rabies shots for dogs would save people in developing countries

Mass rabies vaccination programs for dogs in developing nations could eliminate human cases of the deadly disease, a new study suggests. More>>

Protect your kids and pets with custom insurance

One of the best gifts a parent could give to their children is their financial security by way of life insurance. More>>

Sexually transmitted cancer still plaguing dogs

A sexually transmitted cancer is still plaguing dogs around the world despite efforts to combat the disease by sterilizing dogs and preventing them from roaming free, according to recent survey of veterinarians. More>>

Canine cancer treatments getting more dog-specific

Cancer rates in dogs are about the same as in people, but there are far fewer drug treatments specifically targeted for dogs. More>>

Feeding fido raw pet food a risky choice

You may think you're doing what's best for your beloved pets when you feed them raw food, but you're actually putting their health -- and yours -- at risk, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns. More>>

More Americans kept awake by Fido, Fluffy

Dogs whimpering that they need to "go outside," cats with medical needs, even pets that snore -- it's all adding up to sleepless nights for many Americans, a new report finds. More>>

Lost a furry friend? PetMatch helps grieving pet owners find lookalikes to adopt

Still reeling from the loss of your beloved tiger cat Meow Man? Go download PetMatch to find a new adorable, adoptable friend that looks just like your old one.
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Dogs may help spot human prostate cancers

Dogs can be trained to sniff out evidence of prostate cancer in human urine with near-perfect accuracy, Italian researchers report. More>>

Why doesn't my cat like catnip?

Believe or not, some cats just aren’t drawn to catnip. Here’s why.

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Easter lilies toxic for cats, FDA warns

Easter lilies are popular in homes at this time of year, but they can be deadly for cats, a veterinarian warns. More>>

Your dog truly loves your scent

Your scent may affect your dog's brain in the same way a fragrance used by a loved one triggers a reaction in you, according to a new study. More>>

Spoil your dog with these gifts

The loyal companions who give us the best gifts year-round, welcome home dances, warm snuggles and unconditional love, deserve to receive some gifts as well.
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Dog allergies

According to estimation, about 10% of the population suffers from a pet allergy, with dog allergies being the second most common. More>>

The top dangers for pets

Your pets are members of your family. Just like small children, they sometimes get into things they shouldn't. More>>

Voice cues prompt similar brain response in dogs, people

A new study sheds light on why Fido understands when you firmly tell him to sit or give him other commands. More>>

What makes an aggressive dog, and how you can spot one

You see a Rottweiler standing next to a poodle and a Chihuahua. Which dog is most likely to bite you? More>>

Calico cats may help scientists understand human genetics

Cat lovers have long known that the distinctive three-toned calico patterning is almost exclusively found in female felines. More>>

Cat bites may lead to serious infections, hospitalizations

Cat bites may look less serious than dog bites, but beware: They can cause dangerous infections, particularly when they involve the hand, new research indicates. More>>

The best way to clip your dog’s nails

Being a dog owner means sometimes taking on tasks that might not be that pleasant -- for either you or your dog. Nail clipping, in some cases, is one of the tasks. More>>

Dog cancer dates back 11,000 years

Scientists who sequenced the genome of the world's oldest cancer say their findings reveal the origin and evolution of the disease. More>>

Hypoallergenic dogs and cats for those with allergies

The most recent trend in pet ownership is hypoallergenic animals. These are cats and dogs that have been bred specifically for those who suffer from pet allergies. More>>

Pet-proof your home for holiday safety

Owning a cat or dog is a joy, but like with most joyful things in life, taking care of them requires a bit of sacrifice. With the holidays fast approaching, you want to keep your pets in mind as you begin creating a festive atmosphere.
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Top pet gifts from around the Web

Martin Poole / Digital Vision / Thinkstock Martin Poole / Digital Vision / Thinkstock

Be it hitting holiday sales or getting all of that shopping done online, there’s one family member you may be forgetting to buy for: Your furry friend.
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Reddit community helps Houston woman find her lost dog

Losing a pet can be a harrowing experience. One woman turned to the Internet to help find her beloved pooch. More>>

7 nifty health benefits of pets

Many people like to think of a pet as a furry member of the family; one that is fun to be around and provides companionship. However, pets may have even more of an effect on your life than you may think. More>>

Dog treats can pack on the pounds

Popular dog treats called bully or pizzle sticks may contain more calories than expected and could be contaminated by bacteria, according to a new study. More>>

When, where did dogs become man's best friend?

Dogs are practically part of many human families, but it wasn't always that way. More>>

Smart cat box ideas

You love your cat, but her smelly, messy litter box is the bane of your existence. Sure, you could always train our cat to use the toilet (it's possible, Google it!), but who has the time?
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Winter wear for dogs

Dogs may have fur, but that doesn't mean they never catch a chill. And that's a poor excuse for not dressing them up in the season's best doggy wear.

 
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Cat allergies double among asthma sufferers

The number of people with asthma who are allergic to cats is on the rise -- it's doubled over 18 years, a new study finds. More>>

Cats might fare better with vaccinations in tail

Giving vaccinations to cats in their tails might save their legs, a new study suggests. More>>

Houseplants vs. your cat

Before adding a touch of nature to your home with houseplants, it's important to know what types of plants may be harmful to your cat and which are safe. In fact, some plants are extremely poisonous to cats, and others can cause them to become very ill. More>>

How to make sure your dog is listening

If you’re not sure you can get your dog’s attention, don’t allow her or him to be off-leash or uncontained. More>>

Keeping your cat happy when you're not at home

As much as I'd love to spend my days cuddling and playing with my cat, necessity dictates that I must, on occasion, leave my apartment.
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Manage the costs of pet ownership

If your home is one of the 60 percent of U.S. households that have a pet, here are some things that you can do to ensure the well-being of your beloved furry family member without breaking the bank. More>>

5 fun ways to show your dog you love her

There are many ways to show your dog that she is your best friend and an important member of your family. From doing activities together to creating a space just for her, these are some easy ways you can strengthen your bond with your four-legged friend. More>>

The best games for cats

Your cat is playful, curious and a hunter, and he wants to interact with you to show off his natural skills. Playing games with your cat is a great way to entertain him, as well as give him some extra exercise. More>>

Prepare your dog for guests

Inviting guests to your home when you have a new or energetic dog can prove to be challenging. Just a little training -- for both your dog and your guests -- will make visits more enjoyable for everyone. More>>

4 tips for traveling with your cat

It's important if you'll be traveling with your cat to ensure that he's healthy, safe and happy when coming along on any trips. Here are four steps to a stress-free trip.
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The dirtiest pet product you own

What item do you grab numerous times a day but rarely, if ever, wash? More>>

How to tell if your dog is healthy

Since your dog hasn't mastered speaking in words yet, you may wonder how you can tell if your dog is feeling okay. It turns out, many of the clues can come from just looking at your dog and reading his body language. More>>

Are homeopathic remedies for cats safe and healthy?

While most people take their cats to a traditional veterinarian for care, some may wonder whether homeopathic veterinarians are actually the way to go. Homeopathy in general is about addressing symptoms rather than naming a disease, which some may say puts limits on treatments. More>>

How to prep your dog for boarding

Boarding your dog can be a stressful time for both you and your pooch. If you take the time to prep ahead of time, however, there’s no reason the time your furry friend spends being boarded can’t be both fun and stress free. More>>

How to show your love to an independent cat

There’s almost nothing my cat Penny loves more than lounging around on her own. Under my bed. Where it’s incredibly difficult for me to cuddle with her. What's a loving owner supposed to do?
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Things to consider before using #petsforsale on Instagram

Image courtesy of Digital Trends Image courtesy of Digital Trends

Some users are taking to Instagram to sell their animals. It’s gotten so bad that the platform is actually being lambasted for allowing this kind of consumer behavior to go on without notice. More>>

5 pet-connected gadgets that keep tabs better than a leash

Lately there's been a surge of connected pet products that track your pet's activity, their location, and even let you interact with them while you're stuck at work. Check out these products to learn more about your pet's daily life. More>>

Catsploitation! Popular online pets raise ethics concerns

When it comes to what people actually consume in bulk online, there are two decidedly lowbrow arenas of vast content and consistently astronomical traffic: porn and pets. More>>

The myth of the hypoallergenic dog

Over the past few years there has been a lot of talk about specific dog breeds that are "hypoallergenic" and perfect for families with members who have pet allergies. Is this talk fact or fiction?
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Create a dog-friendly backyard

The weather is warm, and the backyard beckons. Your dog is probably just as eager as you are to enjoy time outside. Now's the time to think like the parent of a very active toddler and create a dog-friendly backyard. More>>

Hidden household cat poisons

While you assume your home is a safe and happy place, you may have some surprising things around that are toxic, and even fatal, to your cat. More>>

Exercise and the small dog

Just like you, your small dog needs exercise to stay healthy and happy. Here are some tips to get you started.
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How to exercise your cat

It's common knowledge that dogs should go for walks, play fetch and exercise, but did you know that your cat should be squeezing in fitness time too? More>>

Stop your dog from begging

There are steps you can take to stop your dog from begging. More>>

Best practices for bathing your cat

Cats fastidiously clean themselves with their tongues and teeth on a daily basis. But sometimes your kitty needs to be introduced to soap and water. Here are some tips for making the experience less traumatic for you and your furry friend. More>>

Animal communicators and psychics: Are they for real?

When cats suddenly change their behavior and behave disruptly, some owners turn to specialists to find out what's wrong. More>>

The reality about dog myths

Is it true that seven human years are equivalent to one dog year? Can dogs really smell cancer? Here, we debunk some commonly held canine myths. More>>

The scoop on the best cat litter

Choosing the right litter for a cat to do its business in is serious business. Different brands and types can fit your kitty's different needs, and we've got the scoop on how to select your best match. More>>

Cut canine costs today

During tough economic times, who doesn't want to save money and spend less? With these tips, pet parents can save big. More>>

Are you obsessed with your cat?

If caring for your cat has heavily interfered with everyday aspects of your life, you may be obsessed. More>>

Bark management 101

Dogs bark. That's how they communicate. But what if your dog barks incessantly? Here are some strategies to lessen the barking. More>>

Exercises for your overweight cat

Cats tend to be bored most of the day, sitting around your home with easy access to food. You need to increase your pet's mental stimulation and physical exercise to help your pet lose weight. More>>

Vacation with your dog on a budget

Not only is it possible to enjoy a fun vacation with your dog, but it's also easier than ever to do so while being frugal. More>>

Emergency medical cat care at your fingertips

In recent years, veterinarians have stepped in to provide a quick, cost-effective place on the Internet for owners to have their questions answered and get solid advice no matter the time of the day. More>>

My dog wants to blog

These days, dogs are on Facebook and Twitter, and they're even "blogging" with help from their owners. More>>

The 5 easiest ways to keep your cat healthy

To ensure that your cat lives a long and healthy life (or nine), check out these five easy steps promoting feline wellness. More>>

How to hold a successful puppy playdate

Playing comes naturally to puppies, but you have a critical role in making sure his first playdate goes well. More>>

Help your cat with separation anxiety

Cats can quickly become very attached to you, which may lead to separation anxiety. More>>

The lonely dog

Dogs are social animals, and generally don't tolerate long periods of being alone. More>>

Are cats and dogs that different?

© Thinkstock.com © Thinkstock.com

Who says dogs have all the fun? Cats can be just as smart, fun and full of personality. More>>

Fact vs. fiction: Strange dog rituals and their true meanings

iStockphoto.com / Lee Ingram iStockphoto.com / Lee Ingram

Since dogs are unable to verbalize what they are really thinking, there are nonverbal cues that we can learn from and respond to accordingly. More>>

Two cats are better than one

Thinking about adopting a cat? Here are five reasons why you should think about bringing home a pair instead of just one furry feline. More>>

Away from home: Dog bathroom options

Traveling with a dog can be fun, exciting and memorable, but it can also be a bit of a challenge if its idea of bathroom etiquette is finding the nearest patch of grass that smells like home. More>>

Writers who love their cats

Writers from mystery novelist P.D. James to science-fiction icon Ray Bradbury and numerous others have at least one thing in common: They all love cats. More>>

How to take great photos of your cat

With time and patience even the most camera-shy cat will eventually be ready for a close-up. More>>

Brain exercises for your cat

Exercise for the brain is just as beneficial as exercise for the body. Give your cat both for a long and happy life. More>>

Benefits of owning a senior dog

Older dogs might not fill a home with happy chaos as energetic puppies do, but these senior pets still enrich our lives in so many ways. More>>

Pregnancy and cats

Along with the admonitions about caffeine, lunch meat and wine, many pregnant women are told they should get rid of their cats because of health risks. More>>

Cat love and friendship

Do cats experience love? One expert weighs in. More>>

How to care for your arthritic dog

As our canine companions grow older, they are subject to the same degenerative problems as we are. More>>

Stray dogs can learn to drive better than your 16-year-old niece

Man's best friend just got even smarter: New Zealand's SPCA has begun teaching rescue dogs how to drive a manual transmission vehicle. More>>

5 ways to improve life for your senior cat

If your senior cat is starting to slow down, there are extra steps you can take to ensure that it is healthy, comfortable and content. More>>

Hydrotherapy helps dogs get in shape

Hydrotherapy provides important physical therapy to dogs, especially those who have difficulty engaging in regular outdoor activities. More>>

Rabies on the rise

Cats are the domestic animal most commonly diagnosed with rabies in the U.S. More>>

How to keep your dog safe and healthy

A few simple steps on your part could mean more years of happy times with your dog. More>>

Is your cat getting enough protein?

Protein is a building block that is essential to cats at all stages of life. More>>

How to prevent 5 common cat illnesses

You are more than a source of food, catnip and scratches behind the ear. You are your cat's health advocate. More>>

Top 10 movies about dogs

Grab the popcorn, turn the cell phone off and snuggle up with your BFF (best furry friend) to enjoy 10 of the best movies about dogs. More>>

Can you tell a cat's personality by the shape of its face?

Animal experts have developed a theory of cat face geometry after more than two decades of study. More>>

Dogs can improve kids' health

Just by owning a dog, you are improving your chances of living a longer life. More>>

Can new dog feeders help solve mealtime problems?

The slow-food movement isn't just for organic foodies anymore. More>>

How to stop and prevent cat scratching

Cats were born to scratch, and they have the tools to do it with too. More>>

Crafts you can do with your dog

When it's raining cats and dogs outside, plenty of indoor fun can be found with a dog craft day. More>>

Caring for cats with sensitive stomachs

Cats can be notoriously picky, snubbing food left and right. But if your cat's bathroom habits are amiss, it could be suffering from dietary intolerance. More>>

Teach your dog to dance

I've seen owners dancing with their dogs, doing some really cool moves. I'm not interested in competitions for this, but I would still like to train my dog to dance with me. Any tips? More>>

Does food taste different to cats and dogs?

Though cats and dogs are the most common household pets in North America, the similarities practically end there. More>>

Don't declaw your cat: furniture-saving tips and tricks

With minimal effort, it's relatively simple to live in harmony with your cat and enjoy scratch-free furniture. More>>

Does cat behavior change with the seasons?

All mammals are affected by changes in the environment. More>>

Cut the costs of raising your dog today

During tough economic times, who doesn't want to save money and spend less? With these tips, pet parents can save big. More>>

Train your aggressive, biting kitten

You can discourage ankle-nipping and other overly aggressive kitten behavior with a few simple steps. More>>

How to exercise with your dog

Want to get fit? Dogs make some of the best workout partners. Here's how you and your dog can get healthy together. More>>

How to make a stray cat comfortable in your home

Easing a stray cat into a new environment is important for their adjustment, and yours. More>>

Boost your dog’s confidence

Shy dogs can be like shy people -- They may become anxious and even defensive when exposed to strange situations. Check out these tips for properly socializing your dog. More>>

Hidden household cat poisons

While you assume your home is a safe and happy place, you may have some surprising things around that are toxic, and even fatal, to your cat. More>>

Vacation with your dog on a budget

Not only is it possible to enjoy a fun vacation with your dog, but it's also easier than ever to do so while being frugal. More>>

Natural ways to eliminate litter box odor

There are effective ways to rid your home of lingering litter box odors -- without having to resort to using any harsh chemicals. More>>

Handling the death of a cat in a multi-cat home

When a cat dies, others within the group do seem to mourn the loss. More>>

10 ways to keep your dog happy this spring

Here, 10 things every dog owner should do to keep their pet happy, healthy and in good shape. More>>

Top benefits of senior dog food

Eight is the new 5 for dogs. Find out how senior dog food is helping adult dogs live longer, more productive lives. More>>

Dog food: Then and now

Dog food has certainly changed over the years. Read about the first dog foods, and their evolution to today's modern products. More>>

Are you obsessed with your cat?

How do you know if your relationship with your cat has crossed over into an unhealthy obsession? More>>

Away from home: Dog bathroom options

What is a road warrior to do when it comes to bathroom options for your dog when away from home? Using these time-tested traveler tips, your dog will be handling the pit stops of life's highways and byways with ease. More>>

Lower your stress… with a cat?

I've heard that cats can reduce the stress levels of their owners. Is this true? More>>

Should you clothe your cat?

Dressing up your cat in a cute sweater or shirt may be fun for you, but most cats dislike the feeling of something on their fur. But there are exceptions.
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New health trend: Dog fitness centers

Increasingly, dog owners understand that their pets need regular exercise and preventative efforts to maintain good health. They're finding that the sorts of therapies we humans enjoy, such as aromatherapy and massage, also serve their dogs well. More>>

Emergency medical cat care at your fingertips

We've all been there: It's midnight, and your cat is acting sick. Fortunately, the Internet can provide you with assistance and possibly save you from several hundred dollars in emergency vet bills.
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The benefits of joining a dog social group

Across the country, dog social groups are enabling dog owners and their pets to find common ground. More>>

Caring for your arthritic cat

Being the elusive and secretive beings that they are, cats often show very subtle signs of arthritis that may go unnoticed unless the owner is looking for them. More>>

How to choose the best doggie day care

Similar to selecting a day care for a child, choosing a doggie day care center is a process that takes some time and consideration. More>>

Rabies on the rise

How should owners protect themselves and their dogs from the disease? More>>

How to toilet train a kitten

It is easier to first have a kitten use a regular litter box before graduating to a human toilet. More>>

Foster a dog

Fostering a dog for a temporary period of time will increase the likelihood that the dog will find a forever home. More>>

Cat food: Then and now

So what were cat owners feeding their pets way back when? How did packaged cat food emerge and evolve? More>>

Shop for your dog at your local thrift store

Pinched pocketbooks have spelled success for thrift stores, and today there's a bigger selection of shops than ever. More>>

Are cats and dogs that different?

Who says dogs have all the fun? Cats can be just as smart, fun and full of personality. More>>

eSleeper makes use of old eMac as a high-tech cat bed

DIY designer Samuel Cox combines an eMac shell, Arduino, and Twitter for a high-tech bed for his feline friend. More>>

Prepare your dog for holiday boarding

Planning a winter holiday vacation? These problem prevention tips will help you prepare your pup for boarding. More>>

Help your cat with separation anxiety

Your cat acts out not to spite you, but because you have changed its routine. Here's how to help them stay calm when you leave the house. More>>

How to bathe your cat

You shouldn't frequently bathe your cat, since it can deplete your cat's fur of natural oils and leave the skin vulnerable to problems. However, there are times when it's necessary so read these tips.
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Letting your dog sleep on the bed

The doggy bed on the floor -- no matter how big and fancy -- could never hold the same appeal as the bed you sleep on. Here are some tips on sharing your bed.
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Train your dog for holiday gatherings

If you typically go everywhere with your dog, it's no wonder you want to bring your best pal with you on holiday visits. More>>

Top 5 ways to improve life for your senior cat

If your senior cat is starting to slow down, there are extra steps you can take to ensure that it is healthy, comfortable and content. More>>

Preparing for a new puppy

There's no question that puppies are cute, but all that awesomeness can distract from the fact that getting a puppy is also a serious matter. Here are some tips to help you get ready for your new addition.
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Social media boosts cat adoption efforts

Social media is gradually transforming the process of rescuing and adopting animals. With pictures and bios, shelter cats become more than just an idea; they're personalized, with faces and stories to tell. More>>

Is your dog suffering from fall allergies?

In the autumn, falling leaves and dried-out weeds release clouds of irritating particulate matter into the air, right where your dog is waiting to inhale them. Here are some symptoms to help you determine if your pooch is suffering.
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How to break your dog’s bad habits today

Many dogs are counter-surfers, so you're not alone with this problem. The habit might seem fun to your dog, but can drive you to distraction. Here are some tips to break your dog of the counter-surfing habit. More>>

Exercises for your overweight cat

It's no wonder many of our cats are overweight these days. Cats tend to be bored most of the day, sitting around your home with easy access to food. Here are some ways to ensure they stay healthy and trim. More>>

Back-to-school shopping for your dog

While parents spend about $600 a year per child in back-to-school purchases, pet parents will find it far less expensive to outfit their pooch for training classes or doggie day care. But as with any kind of shopping, it pays to research and compare before making your purchasing decisions.
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Allergies: Caring for your cat this fall

It's easy to forget that our pets are just as susceptible to allergies as we are. Even indoor-only cats are not immune to allergic disease. More>>

QR codes are being used to locate lost pets and luggage

With the QR code rapidly catching on as a fast method of conveying information about any topic, the ability to keep track of lost animals is another practical application of the technology that's gaining popularity. More>>

Keep yourself and your dog safe in the car

A recent survey conducted by the AAA and Kurgo, a pet travel products company, shows just how risky the behavior of dog-owning drivers can be. More>>

Homemade cat toys

Short on cash, but still want to entertain your cat? Here are some ideas on some fun and cheap homemade toys. More>>

Dog-friendly games for the whole family

A yard, your family and friends, plus at least one dog equal a recipe for ultimate fun. More>>

Help your dog transition from summer

The change from a full house during the summer to spending the day alone can lead to troublesome -- and even dangerous -- behavior for some dogs. This can mean anxious pacing, inappropriate elimination, chewing or even escape attempts. Here's how to alleviate stress. More>>

Why do cats meow and stare into space?

Meowing in the quirky way you describe can be explained in many different ways. Here are some reasons why this may happen. More>>

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