I confess. I have done it. We are all guilty of it. Pet owners constantly say all kinds of things to their dogs; from commands, to baby talk, to full on monologues. But the thing is, no matter how soulfully they may look up at you, dogs are not born understanding English… or French, or German, or Chinese. They can learn words in any language, but they must be taught. However, most pet owners just automatically assume that their dog understands language and they forgo any kind of …

It’s vacation time and you’re excited about the prospects of skiing for a week but your enthusiasm is curbed by your anxiety over what to do with your Beagle, Bailey. Pets Are Inn, a new pet care franchise in the Houston area has an innovative solution…a sleepover with a “host” family!

Pets Are Inn places pets in carefully screened, private homes where they are treated as one of the family. This home away from home allows pets to bring their favorite toys, blankets and treats to keep them comfortable while interacting with their host family.

Come vacation time, Patty Herbert dreaded asking relatives to take care of Molly, the family dog. “I hated imposing on them,” says Herbert. Herbert’s worries disappeared when she called Pets Are Inn and discovered how they carefully match pets to care-takers.

by Mark Siberman, DVM, Southwest Animal Clinic
Safeguarding the health of your senior pet is of primary concern. Senior wellness programs allow veterinarians to help increase your pet’s lifespan through proactive preventive health care. Because many health problems cannot be identified by a physical exam, it is recommended all senior pets receive wellness screenings to permit early diagnosis of any hidden problems.
Health screenings are often the only way of obtaining an early diagnosis, as there can be a delay between the development of an internal problem and the associated symptoms. …

Dog Training Deconstructed by Michelle Mantor
Whether you have a new puppy or a dog that has owned you for awhile, training may likely be on your mind because it is noted as one of the top concerns (along with nutrition) of pet owners. From house soiling to jumping on guests or not coming when called, behavior problems can be solved with training and make life with your pet much more pleasurable.
There are many books about training and it’s a subject with “a lot of legs” (more than four!). We …

There is a health epidemic in our dogs due to the poor quality of commercial dog food as well as environmental stresses.

Hollywood has done it again. Beverly Hills Chihuahua was a huge box office success. That means lots of families and lots of little kids ventured out to the theater and left wanting a Chihuahua of their very own. I mean, who can resist those adorable, tiny, talking dogs? They look so great in the movie, and they are sooo little! Therefore, they must be a perfect dog for families and little kids, right?  The answer is a definitive, NO. As adorable and wonderful as they may be, …

What recession? We are rockin’ here in the Bayou City!! New businesses are popping up and there are plenty of new ventures in the pet care industry. In December, A Tail and 4 Legs will open its doors at 4241 Dowling and will offer boarding for ALL creatures…from dogs to cats to birds to rabbits and more! Lisa Green is the proprietress and she’s busy getting her oh-so-cute “shop” ready for the Holidays. Other services will include daycare, grooming and a boutique. Give Lisa a call and make your reservation …

The shopping season has officially made its “mark” on retail stores and as you make your list and check it twice

Adding a new cat to the family can be tricky business. Here are some tips!

by William Dougherty, Advertures In Birds
If a talking pet appeals to you, an Amazon or African Grey might be what you’re looking for. They are some of the best talkers. They can be boisterous, clever, and very entertaining. They are very smart and will test their owners.
It’s best to consider talking a bonus rather than a requisite characteristic when choosing your pet. Choose a young, well-socialized bird and love him for his many fine qualities, whether or not talking is among them. The friendly and very vocal behavior of these …