When we think about our pet’s health, we often focus on regular wellness exams and vaccinations. Many pet owners don’t fully understand how much their furry friend’s diet affects their behavior. 

At Harpeth Hills Animal Hospital, we understand the intricate link between what your pet eats and how they act. It’s not just about keeping them physically fit—it’s about fostering their overall well-being.

Cat lovers are united in their appreciation of all members of the family Felidae. Whether you love the cheetah, lynx, leopard, lion, tiger, or any of the 37 species on this family tree, you’re bound to have equal admiration for the domestic cat. Despite being linked genetically, wild cats and domestic cats are seemingly from different worlds. On a journey that began over 10,000 years ago, the history of domestic cats continues to captivate people worldwide.

The holidays are filled with a festive blend of food, family—and stress! And even though our pets aren’t the ones shopping, baking, and hosting holiday parties, they can experience anxiety during the holiday season just as we can. At Harpeth Hills Animal Hospital, we love helping you keep your pets happy and healthy year-round with wellness programs that include behavioral counseling, and we’re here to help you understand why your pet might be acting weird during and after the holidays.

While our kitty companions may be good at pretending like they don’t really need you, the truth is that cats love and become attached to their owners as well. While separation anxiety is a well-described and recognized phenomenon in dogs, our team at Harpeth Hills Animal Hospital understands that feline separation anxiety is a real thing, too. Here’s what you need to know:

Small dogs are cute, portable, friendly and so lovable! However, many small dog breeds have a reputation for being yappy and scrappy. Where does this behavior come from and how can pet owners handle these big-scale reactions from their small-scale companions? 

At Harpeth Hills Animal Hospital, we can help you with understanding dog training needs and handle this particular pet behavior, along with many others.

In the medical world, we often talk about how important early detection is through regular wellness examinations. This is also true in veterinary medicine, where we have shifted from addressing problems as they arise, to a modality that is vastly proactive and effective. This is done through regular pet wellness care. 

Many pet owners ask us about the need for pet wellness, especially when their pets seem completely healthy and happy. And we are glad you ask. Pet wellness is an important preventive approach to your pet’s health that can keep them vibrant, feeling great, and healthy for years to come. 

The end of summer is an exciting time for everybody. There’s so much to get done in order to prepare for the upcoming school year, whatever was gained in the relaxation department may quickly fall to the wayside. 

Rising stress levels aren’t the only things a household pet must contend with. In fact, marked decreases in owner’s time, attention, and affection take their tolls, and the result may be pet separation anxiety.

When the Days Are So Full

Many family pets truly relish all the time they have with the kids and the grownups alike. All summer long, there were peanut butter kisses, frozen treats, and lots of outdoor fun.

There really isn’t anything like growing up with a four-legged best friend. They’re ever-willing, loyal companions of adventurous childhood schemes.

Sometimes, however, pets can get a little irritated or accidentally hurt by the antics of their young owners, and require a little R&R away from the action. Kids and dogs are equally important to the other, but only when both parties receive time, space and quiet.

More Than Ever

Most family pets have never had this much time to spend with their beloved human family members. Indeed, we’ve all had adjustments to make in the last couple of months. The future is uncertain, but it seems likely that kids and dogs are going to continue spending all day, every day, together.

Is your dog’s behavior less than desirable? If you’ve been struggling with a dog who is barking excessively, digging in the yard or garbage can, ripping up shoes or other household items, or being extra clingy, you may have a bored pup on your hands.

Keeping dogs busy is the key to reducing behavioral problems, not to mention making your dog much more content and comfortable. Fortunately, we have plenty of ideas to get you started!

Why Is My Dog Bored?

Originally, dogs were bred to have specific jobs, whether that was herding sheep or cows, hunting, guarding, and even being a companion animal. These days, the vast majority of dogs don’t have a job to do, and many are left to their own devices all day while the family is at work. 

As much as you might like to take your dog with you everywhere, it’s just not possible. Going to work, the gym, social gatherings, and even certain restaurants makes leaving your pet home alone a necessity. 

Leaving your pet home alone doesn’t make you a bad pet owner. But it’s important to think about any limits and considerations to make your pet more comfortable when they are on their own. 

Harpeth Hills Animal Hospital is here to help navigate the issue of your pet home alone, with some ideas for how to make this experience better for everyone!