For most pet owners, their pets are not just animals — they’re valued companions and members of the family, providers of unconditional love. When a beloved pet dies, the grief is real. It’s important to mourn the loss of that family member and to acknowledge it in a meaningful way. The death of a pet requires some decision-making. For example, many families choose the time-honored tradition of burying their pets in the back yard. But for those who don’t have or like the option of a yard burial, a pet cemetery or crematory may be a better choice. Growing up in a small town, my family always …
Pet appeal doesn’t always come in a warm, furry body with four paws. Although many folks shy away from reptiles as pets, a growing number of people are choosing to bring home a “cold-blooded” new pal — and some reptiles actually do make great pets. Ben Team, director of Autrey Mill Nature Center and Heritage Preserve, says he frequently recommends reptiles as pets to families who visit the center. “In a number of situations, [some] reptiles make more appropriate pets than dogs or cats,” he said. “The trick is figuring out which ones do make good pets.” Before choosing a reptile pet, Team says…
It's a fact of life — cats come with claws, and those claws may occasionally be used for scratching. Some cat owners prefer to declaw their pets to prevent them from shredding the furniture or even to protect themselves from being scratched. Other people believe that declawing a cat is cruel and unusual punishment. So, what are the facts about declawing? Declawing is actually a form of amputation. The procedure, done with a scalpel, guillotine clipper or laser surgery, removes not only the cat's nail but also the small piece of bone from which the nail grows. Removing the piece of bone keeps …
Last spring, I noticed a black-and-white bunny foraging on plants in a neighbor's front yard. I recalled that a family who'd rented a house around the corner had owned a couple of rabbits, but they'd moved out many months ago. Apparently, they left the little bunny behind to fend for herself against the elements and predators. I couldn't bear to let her keep living that way, so the rescue effort began. It took several weeks of nightly visits and offering treats to earn the bunny’s trust enough to coax her into a pet carrier and bring her home with me. I named her Katie Scarlett — after …
Dogs suffer from many of the same injuries and maladies as their human owners. From torn ligaments to arthritis, physical therapy can promote healing, relieve pain and contribute to overall recovery and improved health in both people and dogs. Effective physical therapy techniques for dogs include massage, hydrotherapy, heat and cold applications, laser treatments and more. The “underwater” treadmill is particularly successful for dogs that need strengthening after an injury or surgery or are experiencing problems caused by arthritis or aging. Jonna Kanable, a certified canine rehabilitation …
For cat lovers, there’s nothing more satisfying than owning one or more of these playful, purring balls of fluff. On the other hand, there’s nothing sadder than the number of unwanted, abandoned and feral cats on the scene today. Fortunately, some of these cats have hope of finding homes or, at least, food and medical attention courtesy of shelters and pet rescues. Angels Among Us Pet Rescue provides assistance to cats in need in the Johns Creek area through its adoption center, foster homes and feral cat program. According to Johns Creek resident Deborah Smith-Callahan, cat program …
When you're planning a trip and can't take your pets with you, it doesn't necessarily mean you have to board them at a kennel or vet's office. In fact, many animals find the boarding experience stressful and frightening or don't travel well. Happily, there is a great alternative to boarding— the pet sitter. Having someone care for your pet in your home gives you peace of mind, knowing that Fido or Fluffy is safe and comfortable in the environment they know best. It also helps keep your home safe by making it appear lived in while you're away. So, how does one go about finding a reputable pet…
Since the first official dog park in the United States opened in 1979 in Berkeley, Calif., canine lovers have rejoiced in the freedom their furry friends can experience in a fun, safe environment. For Johns Creek residents, Newtown Dog Park has long been a popular haven for dogs and their people. The half-acre fenced area offers dogs an opportunity to roam free (under their owners' supervision and according to rules posted by the city of Johns Creek), make new friends and frolic off leash. Currently, the dog park offers the most basic requirements — nearby parking, benches, separate areas …
