Pets

Pet insurance is not health insurance for your pet, although at times, it sure sounds like it is. While most of us consider our pets members of our families, legally they are personal property. That is why pet insurance is considered a type of property and casualty insurance, like automobile and homeowners policies, as opposed to a health insurance policy.

If you're thinking about getting a dog and you've never had one, please do some research first. Learn about what's involved in having a dog — basic dog care, medical needs, training and behavior. In particular, ask yourself the following

Dog training has undergone tremendous changes since the 60s. Researchers such as Scott and Fuller, and Pfaffenberger changed the way people perceived their canine companions and caused many of the old training methods to be questioned.

Dogs need guidance and consistent training from their people if they are going to live in harmony with humans. All dogs must be taught acceptable behavior, and one way to do that is to train your dog or pay a trainer to do it. Dogs are happiest when they know who's in charge and what's expected of them.

Disasters happen, that's a fact you can't avoid. However, you can be prepared. If you have a plan in place for your cats, you will likely encounter less difficulty, stress and worry during an emergency.

A cat is not a born traveler. She would much prefer staying at home with a sitter stopping by each day to freshen the water, refill the food dish, and give a few behind-the-ear scratches. It is sometimes necessary, however, for your cat to join in the travel. Therefore, a carrier of some sort is essential.

Currently, there is no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. Based on the limited information, the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered low. Follow these tips to keep your pet safe during COVID-19.

Cats love to jump. You would too, it you were a cat! They also like high places where they can view their territory from relative security. Cats are naturally curious, and there are a lot of interesting things on counter tops, including food. A one-time discovery of a food tidbit will become a powerful reinforcer for dozens of future explorations.

Do you have questions about the drugs your veterinarian prescribes for your pet? Do you have questions about how and where to report a problem with an animal drug or pet food? If you're traveling with your pet—do you know where to get travel requirement information?

Proper training is essential for a long, happy, and safe relationship with your dog, setting the foundation to ensure your dog stays physically fit, mentally alert, socially engaged, and emotionally happy. Remember, training a dog takes time, understanding, patience, and consistency.