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This issue we dedicate to all those special pets that we love and complete our lives. We reached out to the Alachua County community and connected with nine pet owners and their amazing companions. We got the inside scoop on their friendship and learned what makes their special bond so strong.
From rescues to therapy animals, these pet lovers are sharing what makes their relationship with their animals so special!
The soft purr and gentle meow of a kitten is enough to make anyone smile, but some cats have something extra to love.
The pet issue has to be one of our staff’s most favorite issues. Don’t get me wrong, we love to travel, eat, workout, start a new year fresh, but the dogs and cats (and horses, cows, goats, snakes) are just too fun for words. If you want to see grown adults melt to their knees, give them the opportunity to play with some of the fluffiest and fun pets around, and we are puddles on the floor.
Each year, I am in awe and inspired by the stories of connection and love that our featured pets and their human friends have. Sometimes, it's the human that has saved the animal from a situation that isn’t ideal, or, it is the other way around. The pet has saved them. Either way, a lifelong bond has been forged.
If you have ever had a pet, then you know it can be and is a lot of work. A new puppy means lots of accidents, barking, crying and learning opportunities. Adopting an older dog, as in my case, means bringing a new friend, or two, into your home, and also their behaviors and personality that was created in a different environment. Seeing how they can’t really share with you what their past life was about, in our case we adopted them after their owner had passed, we continually try to figure it out, again, cleaning up accidents and looking them in the eye and asking “Why did you do that?” In the end, their companionship and love is worth it.
As with all big life changes, getting a pet is a big commitment and responsibility. Knowing when that right
time may be is different for everyone. Sometimes it's to help heal a broken heart after the loss of another pet, sometimes it is to give companionship to another four legged friend and sometimes the time is just right and all the stars align.
In our case, our Gigi was getting older and I think our hearts weren’t prepared to be without a companion, so we brought Jack and Jill home. Today, they are getting up in years, slowing down and resting more. They still bring lots of kisses and snuggles, and some potty accidents on the floor, but we love them nonetheless.
In this issue, the stories of our featured families and pets will warm your heart and give you a glimpse into their lives and how these amazing relationships have flourished, healed broken hearts, saved lives and brought laughter and love into their world.
Nicole Irving, Publisher, EIC nbirving@irvingpublications.com
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When my 6-pound yorkie, Rico, hopped off my lap after his relaxing Sunday nap, he walked with a wobble on the carpet beneath me. I chuckled under my breath, thinking he was disoriented from his deep sleep.
When Rico stopped wobbling and stood still, I realized then something wasn’t quite right. Before I could get up from the couch, he fell to his side and began shaking. His legs were stiff, and he was drooling.
Rico’s first seizure was in 2014, and he has had six since then.
My family and I were alarmed and worried for a long time. However, after learning more about his diagnosis, we adapted to our new reality.
March 26 is National Epilepsy Awareness Day. This disorder not only affects us but our pets, too.
Epilepsy is caused by brain abnormalities resulting in reoccurring unprovoked seizures. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), canine epilepsy affects almost 1% of dogs.
As with people, there are three types of canine epilepsy: idiopathic, structural and unknown. Idiopathic epilepsy is presumed to be inherited through genetics, while structural epilepsy stems from anatomical brain issues. Epilepsy of unknown causes is not related to brain structure abnormalities. However, canine epilepsy can be more difficult to diagnose, according to the AKC.
Dogs can experience two types of seizures: generalized and focal. Generalized seizures emanate from both sides of the brain and affect the entire body. This type of seizure has the symptoms my dog Rico experienced – involuntary muscle movement, salivation and lack of environmental awareness. Focal seizures are caused by one part of the brain and affect one area of the body, and symptoms include unusual facial movements, behavioral actions and involuntary bodily functions such as salivation or vomiting.
The AKC recommends that if you think your pet is experiencing a seizure, it is important to pay attention to
Rico is almost 13 years old and, despite living with epilepsy, is as happy and cuddly as he was when he was young.
how it is affecting them while it occurs, how long it lasts and how often they happen.
Rico’s seizures typically last a few minutes, and he returns to his usual playful self shortly after. However, some pets may have trouble moving and experience anxiety, blindness or other behavioral changes after the seizure ends. If your pet has a seizure, take them to the vet afterward. This will allow for potential diagnosis and treatment.
When Rico has a seizure and his muscles go stiff, I carefully hold him on my lap and calmly comfort him until it ends. It’s a scary thing to witness, especially because there’s no way to stop a seizure. However, I know it’s important to be there for him and help him recover.
If this happens to your pet, move them to a safe location, speak in a comforting tone and, above all, stay calm. Be sure to contact your veterinarian with any questions.
Rico has had six seizures that I know of; yet he may have had more that I have not been around to see. His seizures are sporadic and rare, so he has not been diagnosed with idiopathic or structural epilepsy.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), most people with epilepsy live a full life. Thankfully, the same goes for dogs.
Rico is approaching his 13th birthday this year. Despite his recurring seizures, he is the same happy, cuddly puppy I have known since I was 10 years old. He still loves playing with his favorite toys and never fails to take his morning nap in the sun that shines through my living room window. Watch for signs of canine epilepsy and remember to cherish your furry friend – dogs really are a person’s best friend.
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Have you ever noticed your pet enjoying a tasty snack of…poop? Humans may react and immediately tell Fido to drop it, but why did he pick it up in the first place?
Coprophagia is the term that describes eating feces, according to Biology Online. This behavior can be repulsive to humans but for many species, this is typical behavior. The scientific journal The Cornell Veterinarian states that coprophagia is common in lagomorphs (rabbits, hares, pikas), rodents (mice, guinea pigs, chinchillas, rats, hamsters, naked mole rats), primates (orangutans, rhesus monkeys, gorillas) as well as dogs and many young animals, such as elephant calves.
Ewww...why?
Rabbits
Certain animals like rabbits eat their own excrement to fully digest their food. Rabbits process the nutrients in their food a little bit differently as they are hind-gut fermenters. The fermentation of bacteria happens later in the process in a pouch called the cecum in the large intestine.
Because rabbits absorb nutrients earlier in the intestinal tract, they have developed a process whereby they produce nutrientdense cecotropes from products in the cecum (in the large intestine), according to Live Science.
Cecotropes, also known as “night feces,” are unlike standard rabbit poop. Excreted at night and often eaten directly from the anus, cecotropes are dark, soft and tarry. Rabbits need to do this in order to fully digest their food. If you see your pet rabbit eating their poop, do not be concerned! If anything, seek veterinary care if they stop eating them.
A study by published in the Journal Veterinary Medicine and Science found showed 16% of dogs were defined as coprophagic, or witnessed eating stool at least six times. The same study reports 23% of dogs were observed eating stool at least once.
According to animal behaviorist Steven R. Lindsay in his Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, dogs may exhibit this behavior because of ancestral survival instincts. When food was scarce, they would scavenge what they could get from the leftovers. The American Kennel Club (AKC) states that another theory is that dogs are lacking something in their primary diet and look for nutrients from other sources.
Mother dogs often lick their babies to stimulate defecation and clean up after them by eating their poop, according to the AKC. Puppies sometimes eat their own poop as well as the excrement of other dogs, most often to explore the world. The AKC explains there are many other reasons dogs may consume feces: anxiety, isolation, attention-seeking, being confined to a small space for extended periods and living with a sick or elderly dog.
If you notice your pooch regularly indulging in poop, contact your veterinarian for guidance. They can help determine the cause and recommend strategies for stopping if necessary. The vet may suggest a vitamin or enzyme supplementation or taste-aversion products, depending on the situation. While we may be disgusted by this behavior, it is not typically a cause for great concern. What’s important is to stay cautious, curious and in communication with your pet’s provider as needed!
• Coprophagia is more common in multi-dog households. In single-dog homes, only 20% of dogs ate poop, while the 33% did in a home with three dogs.
• Poop eaters are no harder to house train than any other dogs.
• Female dogs are more likely to eat poop, and intact males were least likely.
• 92% of poop eaters want fresh stuff, only 1-2 days old
• 85% of dog poop eaters will not eat their own feces, only poop from other dogs.
• Greedy eaters (dogs who steal food off tables) tend to be poop eaters.
Our pets give us unconditional love, kisses and cuddles, so why not give them something special to show them how much you love them back? Here are a few ideas that will make your special pet friend jump for joy!
Bone-A-Fide
All Natural Dog Treats
$4.99 ea. Earthwise Pets – Jonesville
Extra Large
& Tuff Big Daddy Gator
$28.99 | Earthwise Pets – Gainesville
$26/64 packets shop.dogdrop.co
The Duty Mitt
$11.94/ 6-pack Amazon
Bark Brite Multi-Purpose Dog
Backpack Life Jacket
$38.99 | bark-brite.com
Bark
Travel Crate
$26.99 | bark-brite.com
HandsOn Animal Gloves
$24.99 handsongloves.com
Spleash attaches to your existing leash to help you keep your dog hydrated, cool and even protected! It features a 12-ounce water reservoir and a flip-open water dish for when your friend is thirsty. A portion of every sale goes to domestic abuse support organizations.
$34.99 | spleash.com
DogLine Teal Casual Three-Wheel Stroller
$149.99 | Earthwise Pets – Jonesville
Cat Scratch Turntable $34.99 | Earthwise Pets – Gainesville
Haute Diggity Dog™ Chewy Vuiton Paris Dog Bed $149.99 | Earthwise Pets – Jonesville
Outward Hound Challenge Slider $29.99 | Camp Run-A-Mutt
Outward Hound SafeBoost Car Seat $38.99 | Camp Run-A-Mutt
Spleash Leash Accessory
Bark Brite Dual Purpose Dog Paw Scrubber and Bath Brush $15.99 | bark-brite.com
Archie & Alfred Collar $14.00+ | Amazon
Gainesville’s Store for the Saltwater Reef Enthusiast
Below the glistening surface of the coastal waters of Florida, Australia and Fiji, there shines a whole world of color and life. Colorful fish and vibrant corals sway and dance on the seafloor, only to be seen as often as time allows us to be submerged in their playground.
Come visit our showroom today!
But now, Gainesville has its very own coast and it’s located off SW 34th Street. At Koral King, you have the pleasure of immersing in this oceanic scene in the comfort of Gainesville’s newest fish and coral store, no passport or scuba gear required.
Creating your own saltwater oasis at home can be a daunting task, even for the most well-versed fish enthusiast. With the help of Koral King’s knowledgeable staff, diverse inventory of saltwater and tropical fish, corals, invertebrates and tanks, setting up your first fish tank can be easy-peasy, ocean-breezy.
Alan Lee, founder and CEO of Koral King, grew up with freshwater tanks, a passion he shared with his father. Eventually, life took over and he and his family set aside the tanks and didn’t look back. That is, until 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic started and Lee found himself with not much to do and nowhere to go. He then took a deep-dive into learning and growing his rediscovered passion for saltwater aquariums—and he was, well, hooked. His passion evolved from researching and wanting to invest in a clown fish, to studying and selling corals, and to even working with rare corals.
Lee took the turn from novice aquarium enthusiast to business owner in December of 2021 with the launch of Koral King, an online platform that sells saltwater fish and corals all over the country. Six months in, he opened the first brick-and-mortar store in Gainesville, Florida.
Today, Koral King has over 400 types of corals and fish, from clowns to extremely rare and exotic corals like scolys, acans, torches, mushrooms and chalice. And, with his team of diversified and knowledgeable staff, Lee can help you start your saltwater tank or grow what you already have. Their specialties are harnessed in aquaculture knowledge, aquarium serving, setup and rare marine
life acquisition. In addition, Lee and his team are actively grafting corals to create unique species that cannot be found anywhere on the market. This process is cutting edge in the industry and creating new species for the hobbyist.
If you already have your tank set up or are thinking of setting up a tank for the first time, Koral King offers different levels of professional tank servicing options and set up, for both residential or commercial locations, to keep your reef thriving and healthy. As a full service reef specialists, the Koral King will test water, perform tank maintenance, clean and service any equipment that needs upkeeping while keeping the health of your reef at the forefront of their service.
If you are just getting started, Koral King is your one stop shop for all your aquarium needs. They carry a full line of reef hobby equipment to get you started. Their inventory includes tanks, lights, dry and frozen food, testing kits and of course, all the options of fish and corals you can imagine. For the seasoned enthusiasts, their coral and fish inventory is by far the most elaborate in the region.
Mon - Fri, 10am - 8pm Saturday, 10am - 8pm Sunday, 10am - 6pm
(352) 579-8888
KoralKing.com
9 local pet owners share their unique stories that will surely touch your heart and bring a smile to your face.
Grandpa is a 12 year old Munchkin/Sphynx. He was rescued from an exotic hoarding situation that was shut down in Dade County, Florida in 2015. He was then transported to a rescue facility all the way in Maine, where he decompressed for a few months before being adopted by a loving family in Richmond, Virginia.
In 2019, Grandpa’s family could no longer afford to care for him, but instead of homelessness, he found his forever home with me and his various species of brothers and sisters, like cats, dogs and geckos! He returned to his roots in Florida in September of 2022 when we moved to Gainesville.
Now, Grandpa spends his days napping, sunbathing and working four days a week at Oaks Veterinary Hospital. You'll find him curled up inside a pile of blankets at the front desk or perched in someone's lap. Pets and “Boops” (boops is a term used when we gently poke or touch a dog/cats nose) activate his "whirl" or "trill" sound, and he'll come out to investigate for treats or love. He never fails to put a smile on anyone's face who comes through the vet’s door!
The Sphynx breed is also known as the Canadian Hairless. Their body produces brownish oils that rub off on clothing and blankets, and they require weekly baths to help maintain clean and healthy skin. Contrary to popular belief, they are not hypoallergenic—most people are allergic to the Fel-D1 protein found in cat saliva. Because of their lack of hair, Sphynx have a high body temperature that often leads to a higher water intake. Grandpa will try to convince you this also means he needs a higher food intake, too!
Grandpa has many nicknames: Gpa, Grand Papa, Papa John, Nakey Boy and Clinic Chicken. He models the latest in cat sweater fashion and loves plastic, grocery bags, crinkle
cat toys and tinsel during Christmas time. His daily goals involve eating as much food as possible, even if it's not meant for him, and finding the warmest, most snuggly spot to curl up and supervise the day. Grandpa has taught me that you can come from quite an unfortunate situation and still be able to have the courage to love and trust those around you.
We got Charles in October of 2022 from Rosie’s Cockapoos, a local breeder. We have another dog at home and had no plan to get a second dog, however, the breeder had the puppies at Tioga Town Center, and we instantly fell in love. We could not stop thinking about him and the next week decided to bring him home.
We didn’t know much about the breed but researched them and were instantly drawn to their very friendly and energetic nature. With two young kids, we needed a dog that could keep up!
Our other dog is a senior now and has some anxiety issues so it was important for us to choose a dog like Charles that would fit into our chaotic life. His favorite snack is a bully stick, and he loves chewing on buffalo horn. Charles loves playing in the backyard with the kids, chasing after lizards and squirrels!
We got Cooper in early February 2021, shortly after he turned 10 weeks old. He is quite the character!
The first Australian Shepherd (“Aussie”) we purchased was, and still is, an awesome dog that our family really loves. So, we thought we would add a second Aussie to help keep our first pup company. Cooper is the younger half-brother of Moxie, our other Aussie. Cooper always keeps things interesting around our home and has as unique of a personality as any dog we have ever been around.
Aussies are a breed known for being high-energy, super athletic, loves people, and having a happy and fun disposition. We love playing fetch with Cooper, as well as watching him swim. Other than spinach and kale chips, there’s not much food that Cooper isn’t interested in. Simply hearing the word “treat” gets him excited. There is never a dull moment with this dude, and we love him very much!
Canaan is a three-legged cancer survivor and is the absolute best dog ever! My first baby, I've had Canaan since before I had my human children. He was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer, in October 2019. We were told that, with amputation, chemo and participation in a clinical trial at UF's Small Animal Hospital, he would likely live just 12-18 months. He just celebrated 37 months post-diagnosis and is currently in remission with no evidence of disease!
We are incredibly grateful and are loving on our sweet boy any chance we get! Years ago, he helped save our young daughter's life when she made her way outside by herself. He followed her and stayed with her, barking whenever he heard my husband calling for her, leading him directly to them and keeping her safe. Canaan is such an amazing dog, and we are so lucky to have him in our lives.
For my whole life, I had been dreaming of having my own dog and waited through all my years of graduate school before I finally knew I could commit to taking care of a full-time dog. I also have allergies so I had to be particular about the kind of breed. Of course, with the timing of the COVID-19 pandemic and becoming financially stable, I debated for a long time whether it was the right time. Ultimately, I decided yes, and Remi came to join my family.
He has been such a source of friendship, comfort, laughter and teamwork throughout the journey of COVID-19 and moving multiple times. He is my best friend, biggest nuisance, best cuddle bug and favorite adventure buddy! At a time when the world became so isolated, he truly has been life changing for me.
As a pediatric occupational therapist, I also have made him play with tunnels, puzzles, tons of toys and activities. I gave him a ball pit for his 2nd birthday, and he has happily humored me all the way through!
I got Zoey after Lily, my dog of almost 15 years, passed away. I had intended to just go out and look at the dogs at the shelters the weekend after Lily passed. I wasn't connecting with any of the dogs, and I just felt like I'd never find another one like Lily.
The very last place I went to was Gainesville Pet Rescue. I walked in and all I saw were big dogs; I knew I wanted a small dog. As I was walking out, the lady at the front desk said, "You didn't find one you wanted to take home?" I replied, "I was really looking for a small dog." Then, she told me there were some in the back that were ready for fostering, if I was interested. When I went back there, Zoey (named Snow White by the rescue shelter) popped up in her crate and started wagging her tail. I feel like she chose me! "I want that one,” I said.
I learned someone had dropped Zoey off on the side of the building just a few days before. They were having her checked out for everything, and Zoey was only about 4 months old. We took her outside to the playpen and she kept hugging my arm with her front paws. I said that I would like to foster her and then, of course, adopt her.
We've been inseparable since. She's taken many road trips with me. We've gone to the beach together and we never miss out on a chance to nap or snuggle. She was a God sent and has gotten me through some very hard times in the last seven years. I'm very lucky to have found her!
I was looking for someone who was trying to rehome a small dog so that my other dog, Zoey, could have a sister. I found Gia’s post on Craigslist, which said the owners wanted someone to rescue this sweet dog and give her a good home. In 2018, I made the call and went out over Labor Day weekend to see her, and she came home with me that day and immediately became part of our family at 4 months old.
Zoey, her doggy sister, taught her the ropes quickly, and Gia was very submissive. They became instant besties. Gia has a very calm demeanor, but she is very goofy when she gets tired.
She brightens my day. Her hugs and love are always the best because she is selective about when to give them. So, when she approaches me with a wagging tail, stands on her hind legs, and gives me that famous under-bite Gia smile while I'm doing laundry, I immediately stop the chore and pick her up for some special snuggles.
Gia is pretty much always the first one to initiate a play session with her sister. I didn't know my heart was big enough to love two fur babies at the same time, but I'm very glad I gave myself the opportunity to do so! It has been a great decision, and I feel so lucky to have Gia as my dog-ter (aka daughter).
Kevin came into my life when I was still in college. My roommate worked for our apartment complex and found a 3-4-week-old kitten in the bushes while doing her rounds. The cat was 100% supposed to be her cat, but before I knew it, she graduated and moved away. Somehow, the cat stayed. I guess the saying is true, "You don't choose the cat, the cat chooses you." And that is exactly what Kevin did.
Growing up, I had always had dogs and was convinced that I was simply not a cat person. After eight years with Kevin, I am convinced I was meant to be a cat lady this entire time. He has brought so much love and joy (and plenty of aggravation) into my life. He's made it through at least six residential moves with me and has been there for some of the most challenging times of my life.
Kevin is very sweet, but he is also very much your typical cat. He loves lounging around all day, and he gets the zoomies at random moments, demands cuddles, makes biscuits on my chest and scratches everything but his scratch pad. His favorite thing to do is sit out on the back porch chattering at the squirrels and attempting to catch lizards.
The quirkiest part of Kevin is his EXTREME love of food. He has to have a timed feeder to disperse food (which he waits for to go off an hour ahead of time) and lunges toward it when it goes off. He even sticks his paw in it to try to make it come out faster. He will try to eat any and all human food, so I have to make sure everything is locked up and put away. One time he even stole a bag of bread, broke through the plastic, and hoarded it under my bed for two days to try to keep it as his secret snack stash!
We rescued Beau in October of 2020 from a rescue organization in the panhandle of Florida. He came to us heartworm positive and anxious, but he warmed up to all of us so quickly. Beau now works at Pinspiration Gainesville, where he’s the most wonderful shop dog. He greets everyone at the door and checks in with all our guests as they complete their projects.
Beau lives with his three humans, Catie, Rachel, and Shelby, along with his two kitty brothers Watson and Rocket. He’s a wonderful addition to our family and he has provided so much needed support for us in the past two and a half years that we’ve been blessed with him.
Each of us has gone through our own sets of hardships in the past few years, but the first thing at any of our sides was always Beau, with a fluffy coat to pet and plenty of snuggles to be had. We think Beau was probably a therapist in his past life, and he is so unbelievably valuable to our family. We wouldn’t be complete without our silly little boy!
Deacon is everything I didn't know I needed in a dog. I adopted him from the shelter when he was 14 months old, after he had gone through five homes. He was just looking for the right job, and he found it with me.
He is a certified therapy dog. Deacon visits hospitals, nursing homes, libraries, schools, the courthouse and even our Jacksonville International Airport. We volunteer our time to bring smiles and joy to as many people as we can reach. He has completed over 570 visits so far, logging well over 600 hours in the seven years he's been visiting.
He loves his "job" and gets excited anytime his work vest comes out knowing we are about to go to work. While at the hospital, we visit the Trauma ICU department and just recently had the opportunity to bring some joy to a traumatic brain injury patient.
Deacon means the world to me, truly. But more importantly, he means the world to the patients and people he visits. In addition to his therapy and comfort work, he also is titled in various American Kennel Club dog sports, competing in dog agility and rally obedience. He's about ready to finish his AKC Rally Champion title (RACH).
o r m a y b e j u s t a v a c a t i o n w h i l e y o u a r e o n v a c a t i o n ? I f s o , l o o k n o f u r t h e r –a w a r d - w i n n i n g C a m p R u n - A - M u t t i s a c o m p l e t e l y c a g e - f r e e d o g d a y c a r e a n d c o m p l e t e l y c a g e - f r e e b o a r d i n g p a r a d i s e w h e r e y o u r d o g c a n r o m p a r o u n d w i t h F U R R i e n d s , c h i l l o u t w i t h b u d d i e s o n d o g - f r i e n d l y f u r n i t u r e o r c a t c h s o m e r a y s w i t h t h e g a n g o n o u r c l e a n t u r f ! Yo u r w a t e r- l o v i n g p u p c a n s p l i s h s p l a s h t o h e r h e a r t ’s c o n t e n t i n o u r c u s t o m w a t e r f e a t u r e a n d t u b s ! T h e b e s t p a r t o f y o u r p u p p l a y i n g a t C a m p R u n - A - M u t t i s t h a t y o u c a n w a t c h a l l t h e f u n f r o m o u r M u t t c a m s o n y o u r p h o n e o r c o m p u t e r A l l C a m p e r s a r e a t l e a s t 1 2 w e e k s o l d , a r e f u l l y v a c c i n a t e d a g a i n s t r a b i e s , b o r d a t e l l a , l e p t o s p i r o s i s , d i s t e m p e r, p a r v o v i r u s a n d c a n i n e i n f l u e n z a v i r u s ( H 3 N 2 a n d H 3 N 8 ) a n d h a v e p a s s e d a
t T h e t e m p e r a m e n t o u w a t c h i n g y o u r s a n d o t h e r d o g s s o t h a t w e c a n e n s u r e t h a t h e o r s h e f u l l y e n j o y s t h e i r t i m e i n t h e y a r d ! C a m p e r s o l d e r t h a n 7 m o n t h s m u s t b e n e u t e r e d o r s p a y e d O n c e d o g s s p e n d a t l e a s t 6 h i n t h e p l a y y a r d , t h e y a r e e l i g i b l e t o b o a r d w i t h u s i n o u r l i v i n g r o o ml i k e b o a r d i n g s p a c e w h e r e t h e y e n j o y a l l n i g h t T V PAW t i e s w i t h o u r c a r i n g t r a i n e d s t a f f ( d i d w e m e n t i o n t h a t w e d o n ’ t d o c a g e s ? )
C o m e j o i n o u r C R A M i l y ! C a l l u s t o d a y a t 3 5 2 - 2 2 6 - 8 2 8 2 f o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n o r t o b o o k a t e m p e r a m e n t t e s t a p p o i n t m e n t f o r y o u r p u p – w e g u a r a n t e e t h a t h e o r s h e w i l l l o v e y o u F U R e v e r ! M e n t i o n t h a t y o u s a w u s i n W e l l n e s s 3 6 0 a n d w e ’ l l g i v e y o u r p u p a f r e e f i r s t d a y o f p l a y !
Wash oven burner pans and the interior with mild detergent. Remove and wash your range hood filter. Check the door gasket so that it has a tight seal.
Clean door gasket with baking soda solution. Unplug unit, clean coils and vacuum around the unit.
Add aerators to your faucet and repair any dripping fixtures.
Clear away plants and other items from the condenser unit and drain line of your air conditioner.
Replace warped or leaky toilet flappers. Only flush the 3 Ps: Paper, Pee and Poo!
Check temperature of the water coming from your water heater. 120 degrees is best.
Check the caulk on your windows and consider adding window film to those receiving direct sunlight.
Clean ceiling fans, and turn them off when you leave the room. Consider replacing outdated ceiling fans or window A/C units with newer ENERGY STAR® units.
Tips from GRU for a healthier and more efficient home.
BY AMANDA ROLAND
Humans aren’t the only species that need exercise. Our pets need it, too! Typically, animals are intuitive about knowing their limits when it comes to physical activity, and they will often stop when they are tired. However, it’s up to us as pet parents to encourage them to get the exercise they need. Below, you’ll find a cheat sheet on how much exercise your pets should get every day, whether they be a dog, horse or cat!
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals' (ASPCA) Pet Insurance online, all dogs can benefit from aerobic exercise for at least 30 minutes per day. This could vary depending on the size, breed and age of your dog. Sporting, working and herding dog breeds can stand to get as much as 120 minutes of exercise a day. This exercise can include playing fetch, going on walks, hiking, swimming and obstacle course training. Smaller dog breeds, like Chihuahuas or Shih Tzus, only need about 20 minutes of exercise a day, and senior dogs also should limit the vigor of their physical activity.
According to EquiMed, an online equestrian resource, stabled horses should get anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour of exercise a day, with a 15-20-minute warm-up. And it’s always best to let a horse cool down before going back into the stables. Giving horses plenty of time to graze in a pasture is also good to maintain its physical and mental health.
Some horse exercises include trail riding, obstacle courses, trotting or even swimming if you have access to water. Make sure to pay attention to your horse for signs of overheating or fatigue as they are exercising.
It might be a challenge for you to take your feline friend for a walk, but there are fortunately some alternatives to keeping your kitty healthy!
According to ASPCA, your cat should engage in active play for 10-15 minutes several times a day. Since cats are hunters, games like stalking, or chasing a laser pointer or small flashlight beam, can be fit and fun activities.
You can also set up a small obstacle course inside or outside your home for your cat to maneuver through. You can even use the laser pointer to guide them if they need some encouragement—anything to get them moving!
Getting up and allowing your pet to get in some physical activity is important for their physical and mental health. It’s helpful to always have water available for your pet when they are being active to keep them hydrated, and keeping a few treats on hand is never a bad idea! Always consult your pet’s veterinarian if you have questions about your animal’s physical activity needs.
“6 doctors swallowed Lego heads for science. Here’s what came out”
–NPR
“6 doctors swallowed Lego heads for science. Here’s what came out why it’s impossible not to click on this story because that sounds like some crazy-pants way to conduct an experiment”
“How will ‘couch potato’ humans evolve? Idle cavefish offer clues.”
–Washington Post
Ted Spiker (@ProfSpiker) is the chair of the University of Florida Department of Journalism, as well as a health and fitness writer. He is the author of “Down Size," a book about the science and soul of weight loss and dieting.
We’ve all seen them: the headlines that entice us to read, click or share. In today’s media world, we use these teasers to increase traffic and readership. Sometimes, they’re spot-on, and sometimes, they feel more out of sync than the lights around Newberry Road and 75th. That’s why I’m offering some in-kind edits to some of today’s health headlines—in the spirit of being true (!), transparent (!), and trustworthy (!).
“Binge Drinking May Be Curbed with a Pill”
–New York Times
“Binge Drinking May Be Curbed with a Pill If They Would Stop Making Some Darn Smooth Rums”
“According to Medical Guidelines, Your Doctor Needs a 27-Hour Workday”
–New York Times
“According to Medical Guidelines, Your Doctor Needs a 27-Hour Workday to Stop Asking Me About Those Darn Smooth Rums”
“Get Ready for the Next CrossFit”
–Men’s Health
“Get Ready for the Next CroissantFit”
“You’ll Love This Citrus Greek Yogurt Bowl That Has a Secret Hint of Chocolate.”
–Women’s Health
“You’ll Love This Citrus Greek Yogurt Massive Bowl of That Has a Secret Hint of Chocolate.”
“How will ‘couch potato’ humans evolve? I candle cavefish offer a clue or twos ”
“Cutting Calories Could Slow the Pace of Aging”
–WebMD
“Cutting Calories Could Slow the Pace of Aging Anger Me to the Point of Vacuuming Up a Whole Tin of those Crunchy Potato Sticks at the End of the Night”
“Stressed? 4 breathing techniques to help you calm down in minutes”
–Today
“Stressed? 4 breathing techniques that may calm you down but won’t actually do a doggone thing to solve the problem you’re stressed about to help you calm down in minutes”
“Can’t say no to sweets and snacks? It could be a sign of food addiction.”
–NBC News
“Can’t say no to sweets and snacks and rib eyes and butter and baguettes with brie and bacon? It could be a sign of food addiction.”
“Why Do I Feel Butterflies in My Stomach When I’m on a Date?”
–New York Times
“Why Do I Feel Butterflies Hornets in My Stomach When I'm on a Date Three Hours after I Demolish the “Special” Mexican Platter?
Watermelon is the perfectly crisp, yummy and healthy sweet treat not only for you, but your furry friends too! It can hit the spot after spending a long, hot day at the park playing with your pets. Although you can find it year-round in grocery stores, watermelon hits peak season from May to September. Whatever the occasion or season, consider sharing a slice with your pets next time you enjoy this succulent fruit.
Sharing an animal-safe snack with your pet is always fun, especially one the threat is ripe with as many benefits as watermelon. This fruit is 92% water, making it a great source of hydration for you and your pet, according to PetMD. It’s also rich with vitamins, including vitamin A, B-6 and C.
According to the Mayo Clinic, vitamin A is important because it helps your immunity, cell division, vision and has antioxidant properties. Similarly, vitamin B-6 also has antioxidant properties and helps your body function properly. vitamin C is also necessary for your body to form bones, blood vessels, muscles, collagen and cartilage. It can also support your body’s healing process. In addition to being full of vitamins, watermelon also has no fat or cholesterol, according to PetMD.
Although dogs can eat watermelon, pet-owners should be mindful of the seeds and rinds because they can pose as choking hazards. Additionally, the rind can cause intestinal blockages, and the seeds could lead to an upset stomach,. The ripe red fruit inside the rind is safe for your pawsome pal to eat every so often, as long as they do not have diabetes, sugar sensitivities or have obesity.
The best way to treat your dog with this fruit is by cutting it up into small cubes, depending on the size of your pet. However, keep in mind that treats like watermelon should be given in moderation, according to PetMD. Keeping your pet on a healthy diet of dog food is important, but it’s OK to treat them sometimes!
Next time you slice up a watermelon, cut up a cube or two to share with your furry friend!
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From punch cards to loyalty programs, endless opportunities to earn free stuff at restaurants, hotel chains, big box stores and more exist for us. But what about for our pets? Perhaps you’d be surprised to learn that many name-brand establishments actually offer their own set of pet perks, from freebies to special treatment. Here’s where to go with your pooch, parrot or other pet to start collecting rewards.
Consider this a secret menu item: While your pup isn’t allowed inside the establishment, pet owners can ask for a “pup cup,” or a sweet treat of vanilla ice cream with a biscuit for your dog to enjoy. Most locations will provide this perk for free, too.
Pets are always welcome at most Hyatt Place hotels across the country. These hotels offer dedicated pet-relief areas and even amenities like dog treats, plush beds and water bowls. Some specific Hyatt Hotels even offer extra special perks: If you ever make it to Austria, for instance, you can book a special photoshoot session at The Park Hyatt in Vienna!
Sonic is inherently pet-friendly, seeing as you don’t have to leave your car to order or eat your food, but there are extras offered, too: Let your server know you’ve got pups in the car, and they’ll bring out a treat for them!
Jetting off soon? Perhaps your pet can tag along! Through JetBlue’s pet program, members can earn an extra 300 points to their account. They even offer branded pet products, like carrier cases, too.
At most Aloft hotels, rooms as well as common spaces are open for your four- or two-legged companions to roam around! The hotel chain also offers a program called Animals R Fun, or “ARF,” where your pets can get branded bowls, toys, treats and more.
If you’re a long-time dog owner, chances are your pup has tried the famous “Puppuccino” from Starbucks! Ordering this mini cup of whipped cream for your dog is sure to make their day.
Especially if you’re headed somewhere for a long-term stay, over 700 Residence Inns across the country welcome your furry friends and even provide them with treats and bowls at check-in.
Next time you visit your local Applebee’s, ask if that location hosts any “Yappy Hours,” a special, dedicated time where the patio is open to dogs and their owners!
Aside from welcoming pets, and providing them with treats and other swag, Drury Hotels offer one of the most affordable pet fees at around $40.
Pets can visit The Happiest Place on Earth, too! Walt Disney World has their very own resort dedicated to man’s best friend called the Best Friends Pet Hotel, where your companion—no matter how big or small—can get a royal treatment.
Some Chick-fil-A drive-thru locations hide dog treats behind the counter, so don’t forget to ask next time you have your pup in the car!
This hotel chain famously boasts their “Pets Stay Free” policy, as well as helps you find dog-friendly spots in the local area.
Next time you get a craving for custard, bring your dog with you! Most Culver’s locations will give your pup a milk bone at the drive-thru, and some are even said to pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
*Perks vary per location
April 9 Easter Brunch
April 28 Sweetwater Inn 30th Anniversary Party & Fair
May 7 Graduation Brunch
May 14 Mother’s Day Brunch
Reservations Required • SweetwaterInnEvents.com
Traveling can be a stressful endeavor. Whether it's for business, vacation or even visiting family, it’s hard to forget about what we left at home or rather who we left at home. Unfortunately, our leisure and travel can often come at the cost of our own pets’ stress and well-being.
Pets are curious and complicated creatures, and no two are alike. Whether they are furry, fluffy, smooth or scaly, they always seem to embody their own unique and vivid personalities. With that comes the distinct preferences and behaviors that make each pet so different from one another.
As such, it is in our best interest to find accommodations for them that best match their needs and personalities so that travel can be stress-free.
There are some common misconceptions about pets and their personalities. For example, while dogs are certainly very sociable animals, not all might be fit for pet boarding with other dogs. Cats, conversely, are usually labeled as reserved and individualistic when they can be quite the opposite.
In the end, you, the owner, are the best judge of your own pet’s behavior and temperament. You would be hard fought to find another individual who spends more time with your animal companion. So, take the time to judge your pet’s personality and consider which accommodations suit them best before planning your next trip.
Pets, like humans, are naturally drawn to social interaction, which is why introducing them to places outside of the comfort of their own home is instrumental to their development.
Therefore, it is important to nourish their extroverted desires when away on travel. For our more outgoing companions, in-home pet boarding can be a great first choice. This option gives your pet the opportunity to socialize with others under the supervision of a responsible pet sitter.
Some pets, conversely, might prefer the comfort of their own home while their owner is away. A familiar setting can ease their stress and distract them from your absence. If you find that your pet is rather introverted or attached to home, consider a pet-sitter: an individual who comes to your residence to feed, walk and play with your animal friends while you are away. This can range anywhere from a friendly neighbor to a paid professional. If you trust them, a pet-sitter is a great way to go.
Some pets just move to the beat of their own drum. These animals often come off as reserved and selfsufficient. They do not clamor for attention and are complacent when enjoying their own presence.
Owners with an independent pet might find that traditional boarding, like kennels or catteries, can be an appropriate choice for them. Such establishments typically offer all the essentials your pet needs, including food, water and perhaps some much-needed alone time.
There are some special cases where our pets (and owners alike) cannot bear to be apart. If you have the opportunity and would like to bring them along while you travel, it is important to understand the necessary steps and costs.
Expect to spend a little more time finding airlines or living accommodations that can support your pet and be prepared to pay an extra fee for their presence.
The soft purr and gentle meow of a kitten is enough to make anyone smile, but some cats have something extra to love: a sixth toe! Known as “Hemingway cats,” this unique breed stands out due to its extra digit which makes their front paws look like mittens.
This animal has an interesting backstory dating back almost 100 years ago, and now dozens of them roam the island of Key West. High five—or should we say, high six!
Although Ernest Hemingway is known to most as a famous American author, he is also associated with these six-toed felines. Hemingway appreciated the tall tale about “gypsy cats” with six toes and magical powers that inhabited the island of Key West, according to Chewy Editorial.
In the 1930s, Captain Stanley Dexter, a mariner in Key West, gave Hemingway a white kitten after he noticed his interest in his own cat, “Snowball,” because of its extra toe, according to Key West Florida Weekly. Hemingway's sons fittingly named the kitten “Snow White” because of the color of her coat and the character’s popularity at the time.
Snow White eventually had litter after litter, creating a clan of cats to roam Hemingway’s property in Key West, according to Chewy Editorial. From there, the “Hemingway cat” was born.
Today, about 60 cats still live at Hemingway’s home in Whitehead, Key West, which is now the Hemingway Home and Museum. About half of them have six toes, otherwise known as polydactyl cats, according to the Hemingway Home and Museum. However, all the cats carry the polydactyl gene in their DNA, meaning any of the cats can have a litter
Some of the cats living at the museum are Snow White’s descendants, and because Key West is a small island, many of them might be related, according to The Hemingway Home and Museum.
The cats are treated by a local veterinarian and cared for by the museum’s housekeeping staff, The staff go through almost two tons of cat food per year to keep the kitties happy and healthy!
Like with the naming of Snow White, Hemingway was inspired by his favorite public figures, so all his cats are named after famous people, according to the Hemingway Home and Museum. The museum still carries on this tradition today in honor of Hemingway.
Although polydactyl cats are plentiful at the Hemingway Home, they are not frequent feline visitors to the vet, Oaks Veterinary Hospital Practice Manager Madison Hill said.
“We see them on occasion,” she said. “They're not common, but we see them often enough, and we know what we’re looking for.”
Hemingway cats’ sixth toe is super cute, but it is a deformity, according to Chewy Editorial. As noted by Purina, it typically causes no harm, but the extra toes grow nails that are sometimes missed by pet owners and can become ingrown.
“Usually, polydactyl cats can live perfectly normal lives,” Hill said. “They can live with those toes.”
Although Hemingway cats are most referred to as having six toes, cats with the polydactyly gene can have up to nine toes on their paws, according to Key West Florida Weekly.
However, an underdeveloped extra toe can pose problems, she said.
“The problem we run into is that those toes can be small, so it ends up being a tiny toe in between some bigger toes,” she said. “That toe can sometimes cause issues because the nail that grows out tends to be smaller and can curl into the paw pad or the toe itself.”
Hill said it is typically recommended for underdeveloped extra toes to be removed to avoid these issues and allow the cat to live a more comfortable life. Although, the toes are often a healthy size.
“If the toes are fully developed, the recommendation is keeping their nails trimmed because there are more than five nails,” she said. “But aside from that, it'd be your normal husbandry for any kitty cat.”
Additionally, polydactyly does not discriminate based on breed, although Maine Coon cats have been shown to have a higher chance of exhibiting this trait. Regular cats have a total of 18 toes, with five toes on their front paws and four toes their hind paws. Although Hemingway cats are referred to as the six-toed cat, cats with polydactyly can have up to nine toes on their paws, according to Key
These unique cats have an equally as unique backstory, and their extra digit deserves some extra love.
EMSCULPT is the first device to build muscle and sculpt your body. Through the high intensity electromagnetic therapy procedure, one can enlarge current muscles, as well as grow new muscle fibers.The EMSCULPT procedure is currently FDA cleared to treat your abdominals, buttocks, arms, calves and thighs.
Choosing to bring a pet into your life is a big decision, and it’s important to be sure the pet you choose is compatible with your lifestyle. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), 6.3 million cats and dogs are surrendered to animal shelters each year with the primary reason being behavior or growth the pet owners couldn’t handle.
Dogs and cats are wonderful companions and friends, but there are many other animals that are also looking for their forever home. Here are some options for pets to fit your lifestyle and become a part of your family.
If you tend to spend a lot of time in the office or travel for work, and regular walks and feedings are not convenient, you want to consider a relatively selfsufficient pet.
A great option is to set up an aquarium! Fish are typically low maintenance, and while there is a set-up required on the front end, a well-designed aquarium can be a fun way to add life to your home while fitting in with your busy lifestyle. You can even add an automatic feeder and water circulation system to decrease required cleanings.
Live in a smaller space? Hamsters, gerbils and guinea pigs are often well-suited for apartment living. Their enclosures can be relatively small and inexpensive, but be sure to clean regularly to avoid lingering smells in your home.
Most will also need lots of toys and some supervised playtime outside of their cages. However, if you’re a dog person, don’t despair! Small breed dogs such as Chihuahuas, Boston Terriers and Pugs can also be happy and healthy in small apartments.
If you work a graveyard shift for work or are a student up studying all night,
you may want a pet who can keep you company in the late hours or sleep during the day. Cats can power nap for 16 hours a day and have no problem being active and playful at night. Another great option is a rabbit. Rabbits can be grumpy if you bother them during the day and are happiest being awake in the early morning or late evening.
Did you know birds’ brains react the same way to music as human brains do? If you are looking for
a pet that will share your love of music, a bird is a great choice for a companion. Contrary to common belief that birds are independent animals, they are often incredibly affectionate towards their owners.
A study by the department of psychology at Emory University in Atlanta even showed certain birds have been known to understand tempo by bobbing their heads to a beat. Don’t forget to think about life expectancy with birds as most live well past 10 years, with some surpassing 20 years.
Working from home has become increasingly common as of late and has opened up opportunities for more pet adoptions. In this scenario, dogs and cats are great options! According to a Small Business Practices study, the best dog breeds for remote workers are Shih Tzus, Doberman Pinschers, French Bulldogs and Bulldogs. This is due to their high trainability, moderate energy levels and low tendency to bark during work calls.
Whether you work from home or work in an office all day, travel or stay up all night, there is a pet for you! Finding the right fit for your lifestyle will ensure a happy life for both you and your new family member.
Dr. Eric Herman has been performing advanced veterinary surgeries in the Gainesville for the past 9 years since he finished his residency in veterinary surgery. He has noticed over the years how much an injured pet’s impaired movement strains the bond between their pet parents.
This is the driving force that created Kinetic Pets. His goal is to strengthen the bond between his patients and their pet parents by improving their mobility through minimally invasive surgical and rehabilitation procedures to be free from pain as fast as possible.
My dog had surgery on his leg last week, and hates the cone of shame. How important is it that he wears it?
Unfortunately, we cannot rationalize with our beloved pets to explain to them how important it is not to lick or chew at the incision. It is crucial that a patient does not lick or chew at an incision as this introduces bacteria into the incision, creates incisional infections, and can cause the incision to open. There are other options to either augment or replace an Elizabethan collar (e-collar, cone-of-shame) such as a Lick Sleeve www. licksleeve.com (if a rear limb procedure), surgical recovery suits and inflatable donut e-collars to name a few. Pet surgical recovery suits and inflatable donut e-collars can be found on Amazon and many other websites.
If you are planning to use one of these alternatives for your pet after a procedure, discuss this with your veterinarian performing the procedure. They can help guide you as to which would be best for the location of your pet’s incision and your pet’s anxiety or activity level. I find the best outcomes are made with open communication between the veterinarian performing the surgery and the pet parent. Both parties want the best possible outcome for your beloved pet.
If you are ever concerned about an incision, please reach out to the veterinary hospital that performed the procedure. Frequently, we will have pet parents email us a picture of their pet’s incision when they are concerned. This allows
us to determine if it is acceptable or whether we need to have them bring in the patient for an examination. If we can save the pet the anxiety of a trip and the pet parent the time and money of an examination, then we always try.
Surgeries do cause bruising and inflammation. Signs of infection can be excess redness, heat at and around the incision, pain around the incision, separation of the incision and drainage other than small amounts of blood from the incision. I find it helpful to take a picture of the incision the day you pick up your pet and then every few days thereafter unless there is a problem. This way if you are concerned, you can first look back at the last few pictures to see how the incision has progressed. This would also allow the veterinarian to see how it has healed over time. The more information we have available to us, the more we can help.
My cat seems to be in so much pain from her procedure, what are the best pain medications for her? Is there anything herbal I can give her?
It is so difficult to see your pet in pain. I find its first important to know if your pet is in pain. There are tests that pet owners can easily do at home to know whether their pet is in pain or not. For cats, I like to have pet owners use the Feline Grimace Scale www.felinegrimacescale. com and the Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Index (painfreecats.com.) These can help you determine if your cat is in pain.
Once determined it is in pain, you should contact your veterinarian. The best way to address pain management is through multiple drugs and/ or supplements. Each drug or supplement in that patient’s protocol should be targeting pain from a different method. This allows us
to use lower doses of each medication to minimize the risk of adverse effects of that medication. Some supplements have been shown to improve various painful conditions. Herbal supplements can have serious drug interactions. Therefore, if you are giving any supplements, it is important to make your veterinarian aware of a complete list of anything other than food you may be giving.
Depending upon the location of pain, there may be nonpharmacological options as well. Acupuncture, photobiomodulation (laser therapy), shockwave therapy (targeted sound waves), therapeutic ultrasound, warm and cold compresses, pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF), low grade electrical stimulation (TENS and NMES) are some options that rehabilitation practitioners can provide that have no systemic side effects to the patient. These are given locally to the tissue. Many of these modalities can be utilized to decrease medication doses or to get them off medications entirely. If you are interested in rehabilitation services, feel free to contact us at Kinetic Pets. We would be happy to discuss this further.
Our cat needs a very expensive surgical procedure, which we would like to do. Are there insurance programs that we can invest in to help?
Pet insurance is an extremely important investment for pet owners. Unfortunately, if you already know your pet needs a procedure and do not currently have insurance, that procedure likely would not be covered as it would be a preexisting condition. It would still be a good idea to get pet insurance for any future issues your cat may have. As a general rule, I advise any pet owner get insurance for their pets.
Veterinary medical options are rapidly improving with the continued advancement of human medical options. With increased medical options and improved capabilities of diagnosis/treatment, comes rising cost of veterinary care. Different pet insurances pay out differently to pet owners. Some do a percentage of the total veterinary bills for a specific injury after a deductible has been met while others just have no deductible and pay a certain percentage of the veterinary bills.
While there are many insurance companies to investigate for a pet owner, two that have been good to a lot of pet owners I’ve worked with are Nationwide and Trupanion. Many of the pet owners of my patients have given me good feedback on those companies. Certainly, there are and a great website to compare them is www.petinsurer.com
* For Dr. Eric Herman's full Q&A, scan the link:
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, pets can experience anxiety just like humans. While the symptoms are often unpleasant, this is a common experience among pets of all kinds, but can fortunately be managed and even prevented.
Some of the most common causes of anxiety in pets are fear, most often stemming from loud noises, harsh stimuli, or new environments, separation from their humans or other pets, and aging. Consider your pet’s reaction going to the vet’s office or with fireworks on the Fourth of July. While these events are often short-lived, anxiety can still have a significant impact on your pet.
According to Merck, separation anxiety, another common source of anxiety in our pets, affects approximately 14% of dogs. It often arises when pets are unable to find comfort when they are left alone or away from their owners for a period of time. This kind of anxiety can produce undesirable symptoms, such as urinating or defecating indoors and destruction of household items.
Aging in pets can lead to a different type of anxiety, as it is often impairs cognitive health. As pets age, they can experience a decline in their awareness, similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans. This can lead to confusion and, by extension, anxiety for older pets.
So, how do you know if your pet is experiencing anxiety? According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), pet anxiety can manifest into various symptoms: aggression, urinating/ defecating indoors, panting, destruction, excessive barking, restlessness, depression. Some of these symptoms may be a result of fear-based anxiety and can be short-lived. However, other symptoms could last longer and have a negative effect on your pet’s overall behavior. The most dangerous of these symptoms is aggression and should be monitored closely.
The AKC advises taking your pet to the veterinarian if you believe your pet is experiencing anxiety. Your vet will be able to help identify the type of anxiety, potential triggers, and a plan to help you manage your pet’s anxiety. This may include training with a professional, anxiety medication or even CBD products.
Your vet will also be able to help identify prevention techniques, such as learning your dog's body language, increased socialization, situation avoidance, and exercise and nutrition (just like humans).
Understanding that pets can experience anxiety like us and knowing the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you increase the quality of life for you and your pet!
Saturday, March 4
Dance Alive Presents
Champagne Gala
5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Legacy Park Multipurpose Center champagnegala.org
Come to this fundraiser for dining, dancing, a silent auction, Dance Alive dancers and celebrity stars.
Saturday, March 4 - Sunday, March 5
Florida Springsfest
10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Silver Springs State Park floridastateparks.org
Head over to the Florida Springsfest to learn about conservation and Florida’s beautiful springs. There will be food and music and also exhibits on history, science and sustainability.
Thursday, March 9 - Friday, March 10
Inspiring Women Leaders Conference
UF Hilton | iwl.aa.ufl.edu
The Inspiring Women Leaders (IWL) This conference is a dynamic event where attendees will find exceptional ideas to help navigate the business landscape, leverage their talents, and step into roles of greater influence, allowing them to have a bigger impact on their community, career and home.
Friday, March 17
SAINT PATRICK'S DAY
Saturday, March 25
Author Talk with Bob Kealing
4 p.m. | Matheson History Museum
Join Bob Kealing to hear him discuss his book, “Good Day Sunshine State: How the Beatles Rocked Florida.”
Saturday, March 25
Sandy Sprint Gainesville Ovarian Cancer 5K Run/Walk
7:30 a.m. (registration)
9:00 a.m. (run/walk)
Saturday, March 4
Sister Hazel’s Lyrics for Life: An Evening of Making Music Matter
8 p.m. | Phillips Center performingarts.ufl.edu
“Lyrics For Life” started after Sister Hazel frontman Ken Block lost his younger brother Jeffrey to cancer. The charity brings musicians and other celebrities together for a concert, auction and other fundraising events. The goal is to donate money to organizations searching for a cure and to help the lives of patients.
Prancing Horse Farm secure.qgiv.com/event/ sandysprintprancinghorsefarm/ Help fight ovarian cancer with this 5K walk at Prancing Horse Farm. Be part of the cure.
Saturday, March 25
Sandy Sprint 5K
9:30 - 11 a.m.
Prancing Horse Farm sandyovarian.org
Sign up for the Sandy Sprint 5K run/ walk hosted by the Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation to spread the word about our mission to educate, support women and their families, and to raise funds to advance research.
Saturday, March 25
Gainesville Seafood Festival
11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Alachua County Fairgrounds allevents.in
The Gainesville Seafood Festival is an event for all seafood lovers. It is an outdoor experience with fresh seafood, a seafood market, live entertainment, a marine exhibit, a boat show and arts and crafts.
Sunday, March 26
One Decanting Evening
3-6pm | Valley View, Alachua
www.rmhcncf.org/event/onedecanting-evening
Guests will have the opportunity to taste and enjoy a variety of wines while helping to raise money for a great cause – the Ronald McDonald House Charities of North Central Florida. This event promises to be an amazing night filled with food and wine provided by Embers Wood Grill and great company, all while supporting families in need.
Saturday, April 1 -
Sunday, April 2
51st Annual Santa Fe College Spring Arts Festival
10 a.m. - 4 p.m. | Santa Fe College visitgainesville.com
The historic Spring Arts Festival will be hosted at the main campus of Santa Fe college and continue to highlight diverse regional and local visual artists, student performances and independent businesses.
Sunday, April 9
Sunday, April 9
Gator Clot Trot
8 a.m. | Veterans Memorial Park raceentry.com
Come run the Gator Clot Trot 5K race to raise funds and awareness for bleeding disorders.
Thursday, April 13
Orange and Blue Game
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
Come to this year’s Orange and Blue game to support the Florida Gators!
Friday, April 14
Gainesville Orchestra’s 40th Anniversary
7:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Jackson N. Nasser Fine Arts Hall visitgainesville.com
The Gainesville Orchestra will be presenting "The Music Man" by Meredith Wilson to celebrate its 40th anniversary.
Friday, April 22 - Sunday, May 7
Silent Sky at the Hippodrome
The Hippodrome broadwayandmain.com
The Hippodrome will be presenting Silent Sky, the true story of 19th-century astronomer Henrietta Leavitt in a landscape of fierce sisterly love, early feminism, and universe-revealing science.
Saturday, April 22
Tyler’s Hope for a Dystonia Cure
Crawfish Boil
2 - 9 p.m.
Momentum Labs
tylershope.org
Support Tyler’s Hope for a Dystonia Cure by attending this year’s crawfish boil.
Sunday, April 23
Spring GLAM Craft Show
12 - 5 p.m.
Cypress & Grove Brewing Company glamcraftshow.com
The Spring GLAM Craft Show offers a fresh shopping experience with local vendors that create unique, handmade items.
Wednesday, April 26
Harlem Globetrotters
6 p.m.
Exactech Arena at the Stephen O’Connell Center
The Harlem Globetrotters 2023 World Tour presented by Jersey Mike’s Subs features the Globetrotters going head-tohead against the Washington Generals.
Friday, April 28
Sweetwater Branch Inn’s 30th Anniversary Party & Fair
625 E. University Avenue
Gainesville, FL 32601
Information: sweetwaterinn.com
Join in the fun as we celebrate our 30th Anniversary at Sweetwater Branch Inn.
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