How to Help Your Dog Adjust to the Move

​There are many ways to help your dog feel comfortable and adjust to the move. From natural remedies to introducing new toys, feel free to try out various options to best fit your pet. A few helpful tips to consider are listed below: 

1. Natural Remedies. Remedies like CBD oil can help naturally ease your dog’s nerves. There are also essential oil sprays made for dogs that can make the environment feel less chaotic and more familiar. 
2. Introduce New Toys. Giving them a distraction can be a good way to ease anxiety. With new toys, your dog can feel a sense of excitement rather than fear that they have been experiencing. It brings about a positive feeling in a situation where they don’t necessarily feel comfortable. 

Bring in a Piece of the Old Home. In order to better transition the move, bringing in a piece of your old home into the new one can make things less overwhelming. Your dog will feel more comfortable with this piece from the past, leading to them feeling less anxious about the various boxes, new couch, and overall new structure of their living space. This can be a bed, toy, or piece of furniture that they enjoyed the most from the old house.

How to Help Your Dog Adjust to a New Home

Like people, dogs need time to adjust to a new place. Make your pup feel safe and protected in your new home, and ease the transition by taking a few extra steps when you move. If you take the time to help ease your pet's adjustment, your pet will adapt much more quickly and with a lot less stress.

Before the Move

Before bringing your dog inside the new home, put out his food and water bowls. Pick a permanent spot for his bed and put his favorite toys nearby. The dog will get the message that this is his space. It won't hurt to put a few treats near his eating and sleeping areas as well, so he will immediately associate positive feelings with these new spaces.

Don't forget to pet-proof your new place. Search around for any cords, debris, or nails sticking out in the carpet and baseboard areas. 

Making the Move

When you're moving your dog into a new home, make the move during the day. Dogs naturally feel more fearful at night, according to the American Kennel Club. If possible, move your dog during a bright day so he feels secure. As soon as possible, take him out to go explore the new yard. Let your dog lead you as he sniffs and explores. This will help him start to feel more comfortable more quickly with his new territory. 

Most importantly, don't rush your dog. Let him set the pace and explore new surroundings in his own time. If your dog would rather sleep than explore, let him sleep. He will go exploring the new home on his own, so don't try to speed up the process.

After the Move

Keep your dog's schedule as normal as possible. Maintain the same feeding times and walking times so he won't have to adjust to lots of new changes. Try to keep the house as quiet and calm as possible. According to PetFinder, too much excitement in a new place can make it harder for your dog to adjust.

Spend extra time with your dog after the move, so he knows that you are still a constant in his life. Talk out loud to your dog so he can hear the comforting sound of your voice and spend time petting and playing with him. This will help your pet begin to feel more relaxed.

If possible, don't leave your dog alone in the new house for too long in the first week. Being alone in a new place will increase your pet's anxiety. Spend as much time as you can with your dog and begin leaving the house gradually. Go away for less than an hour the first time, and then spend a little more time out of the house every day. 

Adapting Your Space

There’s a lot you can do to make your dog feel more relaxed and secure, but don't forget to take steps that will actually make your dog safer. Get new tags (which you can purchase for under $7.00) with your new information on them, and make sure your dog has them before you move.

Consider installing a fence around your property if there isn’t one already in place. According to HomeAdvisor, the average national price to install a new wood fence is $2,751.00. If you want to add a gate, you’ll likely spend an additional $200.00 - $600.00, depending on the materials and scope of the project. A fence will not only make your dog more comfortable, it will also give you peace of mind knowing that your pet is protected and safe. A new neighborhood comes with other dogs and wildlife, stray animals, children, and potential threats to your animal’s well-being.

Protecting Your Pet

Take the steps to make your dog feel protected and safe during a hectic time. Give your dog the attention he needs and deserves during a move that’s stressful for the both of you. With a little extra care, your dog will adapt to his new environment and be safe, healthy, and happy in your home -- just as you want him to be.


Photo credit: Pexels.com


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 We all love our dogs and we also love our social media. And who doesn't like to look at cute dog pictures on Instagram?

Today we have an exclusive article written by Ryan Goodchild of pupperslove.com to help us make our dogs look their very best when we post their pictures on Instagram.

If you have not yet checked out Ryan's site, you are truly missing out as pupperslove.com is a very cool site offering inspiring stories about our best friends. There will soon be a book available as well, so please be sure and follow the website for the latest updates.

We hope you will enjoy this article and check out the many internet resources available to help make your dog a superstar on Instagram.

We thank you Ryan and look forward to your upcoming book.

How to Make Your Dog Look Like a Superstar on Instagram

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Photo: Pexels
 
Doting dog parents don’t have Instagram feeds full of selfies. Instead, they have endless photos of their beloved barker!

While we think every little thing our dogs do is adorable, we also know that not every snap we take of them is worthy of posting on social media. After all, it’s sometimes impossible to get Fido to sit still long enough for us to capture that aww-worthy pose, and even Instagram’s best filters can’t always remedy a poor lighting situation.

​If this sounds familiar, we’ve rounded up some of the best advice on how to take the absolute sweetest dog photos that will make your dog look like a bone-afide Instagram celebrity.
 
Get Your Dog to Pose for the Camera Like a Model

Want to Get Your Dog to Look at the Camera? Here’s How

Easy Tricks to Teach Your Dog  … for Cute Photos

How to Take Better Action Photos of Dogs

Pro Tips to Capture the Best Pictures of Your Pets

How to Make Your Dog/Puppy Sit Still for a Photo

How to Get the Best Lighting for Smartphone Photos

Tips for Taking Low-Light Photos with Your Smartphone 

Which iPhone Should I Choose?

How to Choose the Best Android Phone

iPhone Photography 101: Quick Tips to Take Better iPhone Photos

Use AR Stickers on Google Pixel to Add Extra Flair to Your Snaps

10 Tips for Smartphone Photo Editing

How to Grow Your Dog’s Instagram Followers


All of us dog moms and dads think we have the world’s most precious pup — and we’re all right! Do your pooch justice by using these tips to help him shine on Instagram.

We are pleased to welcome once again, guest blogger Nick Burton of ourbestdoggo.com. Nick and his wife Mary have created their site to provide resources and support for dog owners. If you have not yet checked it out, please do. It offers a wealth of information and it is clearly a labor of love.

Today Nick touches on a topic that all pet owners can relate to  - tips for tackling pet messes with minimal stress and maximum savings. We know you will enjoy the article and we thank Nick for writing this article exclusively for us here at loyalpitbulllove.com

Thanksgiving is a week away.

The kids have moved across the country. Both have gotten married and have begun their own traditions. Close family members and friends have either passed away or made plans of their own. What used to be my favorite holiday now feels like just another day.

This year there will be the traditional meal but no dinner guests to share it with us. As the holiday approaches, I have been feeling a bit down. Then I started thinking about the true meaning of Thanksgiving – at least the true meaning as I see it and I have come to the conclusion that really, it is all in how you look at it.

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on all that we have and all that there is to be thankful for, and for me there is a lot.

I am thankful for my family and friends, even though I cannot be with everyone I would like to be with on Thanksgiving Day.

I am thankful that I am physically and financially able to travel and visit loved ones several times a year.

I am thankful to have a home, food, good health and people who love me.

I am thankful that I have found a purpose in life – helping homeless animals find the loving families they deserve.

And I am thankful for my own pets. They bring us great joy and I am thankful they chose us to be their family.
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 Especially, I am thankful that Mickey, who was diagnosed with cancer almost 16 months ago and given about a year to live is still enjoying a good quality of life and is with us to celebrate another Thanksgiving.

​Thanksgiving may look a little different this year and it may feel a little different this year but it is still Thanksgiving and I am still thankful.
 
From our family to yours, we wish you a happy and healthy Thanksgiving, filled with food, family and many blessings. 

He’s baaaaaack!!!!! We here at loyalpitbulllove.com are excited to announce the return of our friend, award winning filmmaker and pit bull advocate Jon Mancinetti who is currently planning his next big project, Super Bois. Super Bois is a comedic, autobiographical story about Jon, his developmentally disabled brother, Joel and his rescue dog, Smokey.

Mancinetti’s last project, Loss and Found was a funny and very poignant short film about his own experiences as a rescuer and foster dad for a number of shelter pit bulls who otherwise would not have had the opportunity to experience loving homes and families. We were fortunate to be among the first to learn about this film. We first had the opportunity to discuss the film with Mancinetti on this page prior to its inception and also reviewed Loss and Found here last year.

In case you are not aware, statistics show that only one in 600 shelter pit bulls makes it out alive and over one million are killed in shelters each year. Mancinetti’s mission, like ours here, is to educate people about these very loyal, loving and misunderstood dogs with the ultimate goal of seeing them find their way out of shelters and into loving homes.

Loss and Found was featured in many film festivals, won numerous awards, was shown in more than 40 cities worldwide and raised over $50,000 for local shelters and rescues. Along the way, Mancinetti was even able to rescue, foster and find a home for a Memphis shelter dog who was slated for euthanasia. He is hoping for even greater success with Super Bois, which strives to educate the public about both disabled individuals and shelter dogs and how they can positively impact all of us.

Growing up in Cleveland Ohio, Jon and his brothers Jeff and Joel enjoyed making super hero movies together, using their parents’ VHS camera. Not only did this influence his career as an adult, but it also created a powerful bond between Jon and his brothers, Joel in particular. Over the years, he and Joel have grown even closer and Jon’s passion for educating and raising awareness has grown right along with it.

Mancinetti already has big plans for Super Bois. In addition to entering the film in various film festivals, he has already reached out to a number of schools and animal rescue organizations and is making arrangements to show the film in cities around the world.

If you would like to help Jon on his mission, please check out his Kickstarter campaign and donate if you are able. There are many sponsorship opportunities and other incentives for donors so let’s do this! Let’s help Jon continue his mission to help others by supporting Super Bois. We can’t wait to see the finished product!

Once again we are pleased to welcome guest blogger, Nick Burton from ourbestdoggo.com. This site, developed by Nick and his wife, offers many great tips, resources and support for pet owners so be sure to check it out.

For anyone who has ever moved (and who hasn't) we all know how stressful it can be, not only for us but for our pets as well. This article offers some great tips to make your next move easier and less stressful for all involved.

How to Make Moving Stress-Free for Your Dog
 
Moving can make the staunchest of hearts fill with anxiety, but for our canine companions, being uprooted can be particularly stressful.  A little extra consideration can help your furry friend through the transition.  Here are some clever tips for easing your dog through the process so you’ll both feel right at home before you know it.
 
Choose a great location
 
One of the best ways to help your furry friend through this life-changing event is to select your new home with his needs in mind.  For instance, before committing to a new house, make sure it’s in a dog-friendly location.  Familiarize yourself with the zoning regulations and animal control laws in the area. Check whether specific certificates or vaccinations are necessary and make sure you have them beforehand.
 
Also think about the specific neighborhoods you’re considering.  If you and your dog go for walks, heavy traffic can be an issue, and some communities and homeowners associations have their own restrictions for pet owners.  You might prefer an area with sidewalks; if getting out and about with your dog is something you’re looking forward to, an area close to dog parks can be a boon. 
 
Keep your dog in mind when looking at specific properties as well.  For instance, a fenced yard is a must-have for a dog that tends to roam or needs room for exercise, while some dogs might be fine with smaller spaces.  That being said, don’t discount a house that works if it lacks a fence. You can always have one installed, and depending on the materials, it might not cost too much. For example, Hartford homeowners spend an average of $2,418 to have a fence installed.
 
It really helps when house hunting to be familiar with your dog’s breed tendencies, and to make choices that will keep him safe and secure. 
 
Making the move
 
The logistics of a move can be one of the most challenging parts of this entire process. And while it's easy to call upon friends and family on moving day, you're going to have a harder time if you're moving out of state to a new community with no contacts. In that case, it might be in your best interest financially to consider a hybrid move where you use a moving company to load a truck, a separate company to move your items, and then a different moving company once you reach your destination. Not only will this save you some headaches, but it allows you to spend more time with your pup before you leave and after you arrive at your final destination. Make sure to read reviews to find the highest-rated moving companies in your area.
 
When it’s time for the big event, it’s also important to keep your dog out of the pathway of movers, so consider having a friend watch him for the day, hiring a pet sitter, or boarding him (the cost of boarding averages $25 - $45 a night).  Getting away from the hubbub can reduce his stress as well as keep him safe.  Also make sure you stick to the usual routine, and pack your dog’s things last.  When you get to the new place, unpack his things first, and set them up in a similar location to where they were in the old house. 
 
If you have a dog who doesn’t travel well, one way to help your dog is to talk with your vet before the move.  The vet can recommend options for managing your pooch’s behavior and might prescribe something for anxiety.  Another idea is to try an over-the-counter anxiety medication.  If you’re moving out of the area, your vet might have suggestions for finding a new veterinarian as well. 
 
When it comes to actual travel, your safest bet is for Fido to go in a crate or carrier.  If you haven’t used one before, buy an appropriately sized crate before moving day, and help your dog become accustomed to it beforehand.  Choose a crate that is travel-friendly as well.  For instance, some crates have wheels to get your pooch through airports more easily, and some allow you to top-load your dog.  As far as accommodations, Pet Travel recommends outfitting the crate with a comfy pad and bowls for the journey.  You can freeze water the night before in a bowl that attaches inside the crate so it won’t drip or spill.  Also consider adding something that smells like you if you and your dog will be separated at all, like a worn T-shirt.  Test drive the new crate at home and then make some short trips before trying longer journeys. 
 
When you reach your destination, spend a little time introducing your dog to the new surroundings.  Unpack your dog’s belongings right away, dog-proof the new house, and let your pup sniff around the new house and neighborhood while you walk with him.  Keep a leash on for the initial perusal, making it easier to correct any unwanted behaviors.
 
Throughout the process of moving, your dog is depending on you to make choices on his behalf.  Select the new home carefully, and make preparations to transition smoothly.  Keep his needs and comfort in mind throughout the process, and you and your furry friend will be settled in quickly. 

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We hope you have enjoyed this article and please visit Nick's site, ourbestdoggo.com for more great articles, tips and information for you and your pet.

Thank you Nick! 
 
Photo Credit: Pexels

Today we offer yet another insightful article written by guest blogger Katie Tu. Katie is the Content Specialist for QuoteWizard by LendingTree, LLC and has written a very important article for pit bull owners and also owners of other dog breeds that are often considered dangerous by the insurance industry. It offers tips on where to look for homeowner's insurance as well as what you can do to protect yourself and your dog.

We hope you will enjoy the article and we thank you Katie for sharing this with us.

Show Your Pit Bull's Not a Threat to Home Insurers

Your homeowners insurance policy is available to help protect you from damages and liabilities in or around your home. This can include theft, fires, lightning, and dog bites. You may have heard this, but some insurance providers may deny coverage or raise your rates depending on your dog breed.
 
While we understand that any dog breed is capable of biting under the right circumstances, larger breeds like pit bulls typically have the capacity to cause more damage, therefore they are a bigger liability.
Insurers that allow pit bullsFortunately, there are a few insurers that offer pit bull friendly policies. Note that coverage can vary depending on the case and if you’re in Michigan or Pennsylvania, the legislation prohibits denying coverage based on the breed alone.

• State Farm does not require you to disclose your dog’s breed nor do they have breed restrictions. They will consider your coverage on a case-by-case basis and consider your pet’s history.
• Allstate also has a similar policy to State Farm, but coverage is subject to change if your pet attacks or causes damage.
• USAA can help cover your pit bull if it has a proven track of good behavior. However, this company only serves US military veterans and their families.

 
Be sure to also shop around with other carriers to compare and find the best rate for you and your pit bull.
How to show that my pit bull is good?Your current home insurance policy might be able to work with you on coverage and price if you can demonstrate that your pit bull has good behavior. Here are some suggestions on what you can do to show your beloved pit bull is obedient and safe:

• Spay or neuter your pit bull. There has been evidence that neutering your pit bill can help decrease aggression (those that are influenced by hormone). It can also help with population control and continuing to pass aggressive behavior to offsprings.
• Ensure your dog is properly socialized and leash trained. Socializing your pet will lower the probability of it feeling threatened by other people or dogs.
• Enroll your pit bull in a training class. Get to know you canine and understand it’s stressors and how to work on it or avoid them. This takes time, energy, and work, but can help minimize liabilities.
• Earn the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certificate from the American Kennel Club. This is the gold standard of behavior for dogs where you go through a series of tests with your dog to show their obedience.

 
If you’re still having some trouble with liability coverage with your home insurance, consider an umbrella policy of canine liability insurance. An umbrella policy is a supplemental insurance policy that extends your maximum, payout and filling in any coverage gaps. Canine liability insurance is a standalone policy, so you don’t need an existing home or renters policy to have it. It has a wide array of liability coverages related to your pit bull.
 
As with any pet, you should be a responsible owner and ensure that your pit bull is happy and can be safe around people. Recognize any potential threats with children and adults and always keep an eye on your companion.

Vacation season is in full swing. Did you know that nowadays, 37% of vacationers travel with their pets? that is nearly twice as many as ten years ago.

Today we welcome guest blogger Nick Burton of ourbestdoggo.com. Nick and his wife Mary created this site out of their mutual love of dogs, in memory of their beloved dog Willie. The site is a resource for pet owners, especially those who are dealing with the loss of a pet. Nick has graciously written this wonderful article especially for loyalpitbulllove.com. So read and enjoy.....and be sure to check out Nick's site. 

Five Ways to Plan for Traveling with Your Dog
 
There is nothing quite taking a vacation and getting away from it all for a little while. However, when we have dogs, leaving them behind can be extremely difficult. To get a little extra adventure, why not consider bringing them along for the journey?
 
Getting Around
 
Finding the right destination will lay the groundwork for the rest of your plans. However, where to go can depend on your pup's personality. If your pooch is more actively inclined, he might thrive somewhere close to the wilderness or the beach. That can benefit you, too, since there are destinations like Santa Barbara or Stowe, Vermont that have plenty for owners to do. Even if your choice is a city, such as San Diego or Washington, D.C., that doesn't mean your pup has to be bored. Yes, there may be unfamiliar areas, but there are canine-focused travel apps designed to help you find parks, welcoming restaurants, and other dog-friendly locations.
 
Do the Paperwork
 
Without certain documents, you could encounter difficulties if any issues occur, such as an accident or a medical problem. So, if you don't have them, ask your veterinarian for a complete copy of your pup's medical records. These will include a history of visits, treatments, vaccinations, as well as any health issues your pooch has had. While your vet could send these documents to another vet if needed, it's good to have them on hand in case of an emergency. In fact, if you're taking a trip abroad, such as to Canada, these precautions could be vital if a border agent queries you about a health certificate or rabies vaccination.
 
Stock Up Gear
 
Packing the right doggy gear can ensure your travels are smooth. Of course, planning can be chaotic, so it's wise to have a checklist that you can tick off. To start, focus on the basics, such as collapsible food and water bowls, doggy bags, as well as spare leashes and collars. If your pup gets nervous, you might also want to stock up on medications and toys to provide some comfort. Moreover, if you're traveling by car, Pet Life today notes that it's essential that you invest in a quality dog seat belt to keep your dog safe and avoid any distractions for you.
 
Get Them Comfortable
 
Unfortunately, no matter how much pups love to explore, they can still get anxious when traveling. Thankfully, this can be avoided by getting them used to riding in a vehicle. However, if they haven't been in a car, don't just rush into driving them around. Instead, take the process step-by-step, and start by being parked in the car. By going slowly, you keep things controlled, and can focus on reassuring your pooch and rewarding him for his courage. As you get your dog used to the car, look out for any evidence of stress, such as trying to pull away from the vehicle. Don't worry if that happens, as taking a step back and praise can have a positive impact.
 
Choosing the Accommodation
 
This is where it can get a little tricky, particularly if you plan on multiple stopovers. After all, you need to be certain your pup will not only be welcomed but have an environment where he feels comfortable. So, to avoid any surprises at reception, contact your accommodation before you book. Even if they request a deposit or higher fees, that still means you both have a place to stay. Still, you want your furball to enjoy the experience, and that might be a challenge if the hotel is too restrictive. If you really want to go all out, make it a policy to look for places offering extra features. Yes, looking for hotels that offer dog yoga, or doga, or a scavenger hunt might sound unnecessary, but it could make a world of difference for your companion.
 
With suitable gear and preparation, bringing your pup along can transform a vacation. Of course, you want your dog to be comfortable and active, so start crafting a good plan. Now is the time for you and your buddy to make memories that will last the rest of your lives.
 
Image Courtesy of Pixabay
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We thank you Nick for your thoughtful contribution to our site, and once again, please be sure to check out Nick and Mary's site, ourbestdoggo.com.

What to Know Before Adopting Your First Dog
Adopting a dog is like handpicking your new best friend. It's also a commitment to love and care for your pet to the best of your ability. Here's what you need to know to give your new four-legged friend the life he deserves.

1. Breeds and Behavior

It's important to adopt a dog that fits your lifestyle. If you adopt a dog based on looks, rather than size and temperament, you risk years of frustration for both you and your pet.
 
Breed is a helpful indicator of a dog's temperament, but you don't have to adopt a purebred dog to find a great personality match. If adopting from a shelter, an adoption counselor can identify dogs that fit your wants. You can also adopt from a foster-based rescue. Since fostered dogs are sheltered in a home environment, foster parents have detailed knowledge of the dogs' traits.

2. Adoption Costs

Adoption costs vary widely depending on where you get your dog. Whether you buy or adopt your dog also influences how much you'll spend on veterinary care during the first year.
 
Buying a puppy from a breeder is the most expensive route. Not only will you spend anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars for your dog, but you'll also be responsible for costs associated with spaying and neutering, vaccinating and microchipping your dog. If you make the mistake of purchasing from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, rather than a reputable breeder who completes genetic testing, you also risk buying a dog with expensive health issues. You can learn how to identify problematic breeders at PAWS.
 
Adopting from a rescue can cost anywhere from $100 to $200. However, most shelters and rescue groups spay and neuter pets before adopting them out, saving the new owners hundreds of dollars. Some shelters also include microchips and certain vaccinations in adoption fees.

3. Veterinary Care

The adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is just as true for our dogs' health as it is our own. Annual exams, booster vaccinations, dental care and flea, tick and heartworm preventatives are affordable and help prevent a wide range of canine health problems.
 
Emergency veterinary care, on the other hand, is costly. First-time dog owners should create a pet emergency fund before bringing their dog home. An emergency fund lets you avoid the painful situation of forgoing veterinary care because of financial constraints. Buying pet insurance is another way dog owners can prepare for emergency veterinary care. Canine Journal explains pet insurance in depth.

4. Exercise

Your dog will need 30 minutes to two hours of exercise every day, depending on its breed, age and health. Dogs that don't get enough exercise are prone to health and behavioral problems.
 
Walks are the go-to exercise for many dog owners. To walk your dog safely, invest in a non-retractable leash and comfortable harness and avoid walking in extreme weather. Hot pavement and pavement treated with ice melt can injure your dog's paws.

5. Home Preparation and Maintenance

A dog's home should be a comfortable and safe place. In addition to basics like food and water dishes, first-time dog owners should purchase a supportive dog bed and plenty of toys to keep their pet entertained. It's also wise to dog-proof your home to prevent your dog from getting into unwanted spaces. A dog eating something he shouldn't is not only frustrating, it could threaten your pet's health.
 
You'll also want to be prepared to clean up after your pet. At minimum, you'll want a vacuum that can handle pet hair and dander (make sure to read reviews online) and a scooper for cleaning waste out of the yard. Grooming tools like a deshedding brush also help keep your home clean.

6. Special Needs Pets

​Senior dogs and dogs with handicaps make wonderful, loving pets. However, first-time owners must be prepared to meet their pets' unique needs. In addition to purchasing adaptive devices that let your pet live a full life, you should be prepared to manage increased costs associated with your pet's veterinary care. Senior dogs and dogs with special needs may also mean a messier home due to increased shedding or house accidents. Discuss your new dog's need in depth with your adoption counselor and veterinarian so you can create routines for your new pet's care.
 
Responsible dog ownership requires a lot of effort. However, ask any dog owner and they'll tell you that it's work that pays back in spades. By planning ahead before bringing your dog home, you set yourself and your new pet up for success.
 
Image via Unsplash

​We thank Jessica once again for this insightful article.  Our goal here is always to promote shelter adoptions and the more information we have the better prepared we are to make adoption a pleasant experience for humans and pets alike.

Please be sure to visit Jessica's site www.ourbestfriends.pet/ for more great tips for pet lovers.