Nikki Wardle

As spring gets closer, we're all examining the pounds we gained over the holidays and thinking about how to improve our health in the new year. Is your furry friend a little husky (no pun intended) as well after the holidays? It's easy to spoil pets a little more than usual over the Christmas season with treats and human food, but it's important to keep a close eye on your dog or cat's weight.

Dogs are social creatures, and like humans, a lack of socialization can have devastating longterm effects on their behavior. That's why it's no joke to socialize your puppy, especially during crucial times of development. Some research suggests that this crucial socialization period is as early as 3-12 weeks of age, and that the younger a puppy is the better the chance he or she will approach new situations with an adventurous attitude.

You're a responsible pet parent, which means you have your evening doggy exercise route memorized. You could walk it in your sleep—maybe you have a couple of times. Your dog needs exercise and an outlet, so you dutifully trace the same path every day, avoiding the feisty feline on 8th Street and clutching your doggy bag. But isn't it time to mix up your canine companion's exercise routine, for your sake and his?

Did you know that each year over 100,000 pets are poisoned in the United States? Most of these incidents were caused by household items and foods many of us have in our homes at one time or another. While most of them are harmless to us when used properly, they can be extremely dangerous to dogs.

Your dog's oral health is an important part of her overall well-being, and brushing is as important for her as it is for you. Here's how to go about it!

Vaccines are undoubtedly one of the best ways to give your new puppy a good start in life. Here are a few tips to help you protect your puppy against life-threatening illnesses.

We'd all like to be able to take our pets with us when we vacation, but it's not always possible. Boarding at a top-notch facility is the best way to make sure your pet has a fear free experience. You'll also enjoy your time away much more if you know your pet is in good hands.

Happy National Pet Dental Health Month! February is a great time to schedule a dental check-up with your holistic veterinarian. Doing so can alert you to any problems that may exist, and get you and your pet started on a good oral care program.

We've all been there before. Your dog is acting strange—maybe not eating well or seeming to limp a bit. Three minutes later, you're convinced Fido is suffering from heart failure—or maybe a rare genetic disorder—and you're panicking. What happened in those three minutes? We're guessing you consulted Dr. Google.

Your dog is your best friend, and you want nothing more than to make sure she has a long and healthy life. Did you know that there are products in your house right now that could significantly harm and even kill your pet?