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Scratching Post Woes (Or How Your Cat Learned to Love Their Scratching Posts)

Most cats have preferences for scratching post textures.  These can include sisal, wood, corrugated cardboard, and carpeting, among others.  Essential attributes of any cat-preferred scratching post are:  Tall enough for the cat to reach/stretch to his full body length and … →

Why Cats Have Claws and How to Live with Them

Why Cats Have Claws… Claws help provide balance and agility when a cat jumps and walks. Claws help cats grip and enjoy stretches that tone their backs and shoulders. Without claws, a cat can feel defenseless and can be more … →

When Pets Grieve

We all find it hard to say goodbyeOur pets are just like us in many ways. Many of us can clearly understand their moods and emotions by the way they look at us or the way they wag their tail. … →

The Feelings Associated with Grief

When a pet passes away Anyone who considers a pet a beloved friend, companion, or family member knows the intense pain that accompanies the loss of that friend. Following are some tips on coping with that grief, and with the … →

Understanding the Grieving Process

Losing a petMany consider grieving inappropriate for someone who has lost “just a pet.”Nothing could be further from the truth. People love their pets and consider them members of their family. Caregivers celebrate their pets’ birthdays, confide in their animals, … →

When You Must Euthanize a Pet

Common Questions and Answers When is the right time to euthanize a pet?Your veterinarian is the best judge of your pet’s physical condition; however, you are the best judge of the quality of your pet’s daily life. If a pet … →

Pet Loss Advice;10 coping tips to help you and your children recover from the death of a beloved pet

Give yourself permission to grieve. Denying these natural emotions can elevate stress and physical fatigue. Seek out friends and family members who share your compassion for animals. Focus more on their good intentions and not necessarily their words. Animal Friends … →

Grouchy Canines: Dogs Who Growl or Snap

By: Lilian Akin, CPDT If your dog recently growled or snapped, you may be wondering why. After all, you may have done your research and made sure you adopted the best dog for your family. Does this sudden behavior change … →

Grouchy Canines: Dogs Who Growl or Snap

By: Lilian Akin, CPDT If your dog recently growled or snapped, you may be wondering why. After all, you may have done your research and made sure you adopted the best dog for your family. Does this sudden behavior change … →

Adopting Two Dogs is Twice as Nice

Adopting a dog can be one the biggest blessings in life. Imagine how much better that blessing would be if you took two dogs home instead of one! The staff at Animal Friends are always working hard to place all … →