Big Valley Animal Hospital
The American Kennel Club reports that the most popular dog names of 2023 were “Luna” for girl dogs and “Max” for boy dogs. Luna beat out “Bella” for the top spot while Max bested “Charlie.” In a nod to the popularity of football and the personal
Did you know?
life of the world’s most recognizable pop star, “Kelce” was the top trending dog name of 2023 according to data compiled by the
online pet ownership marketplace Rover. Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce was already wildly popular among Chiefs fans, but he rose to even greater prominence when he began dating pop star Taylor Swift during the 2023 National Football League season. Rover reports that trending names for felines included “Norbert,” “Soju” and “Snoop.”
11 years old, Boston Terrier
Traci Goodman
10 months old, Shiksu pug mix Chip Cramer
2 years old, semi longhair
8 month old, American Shorthair Cat Morgan Wagner
5 years old, Blue Heeler
Beth & Darren Weaver
4 years, Domestic Long Hair
15 months,
#1
#2
#3
Baylee
Blu
Rachel Reesman
#4
#5
#6
Charlie
Brian Depew #7 #8
Joanna McKalips
Jada Depew
Chewie
Bernese Mountain Dog
Amy & Michael Murphy
Clem
9 years old, Domestic Longhair
Megan Kauffman
Gracie
1 year old, Mini Goldendoodle
Alexis, Tenley & Ryan Knable
Huckleberry Fynn
1 year old, Catahoula Leopard mix
Megan Kauffman
Lacie
3 years old, Husky Lab
Echo Love
2 years old, English Bulldog
Rachel Reesman
Hank
10 years old, Beagle Mix o
Traci Goodman
10 years old, Chihuahua
Christina & Frank Mills
Ellie
6 years old, Blue Heeler
Luke Casner
Holly
7 months, Bernese Mountain
Amy & Michael Murphy
6 year old, Black Cat
Maddalynn, Ethan, Makayla & Joe
Jocelyn Powell Lewey
7 1/2 years, Labrador Retriever
Mike & Michelle Bossinger
1.5 years, Golden Doodle
Kassi & Jimmy Freed
#13
#16
Jax
Jiji
PET OF THE YEAR
Common health issues that affect aging pets
Pet owners’ devotion to their companion animals is evidenced in the lengths modern pet parents go to keep their furry friends happy and healthy. A recent survey from GOBankingRates found that 70 percent of pet owners spent between $600 and $1,200 on their pets in 2023, which underscores how important companion animals are to the people who take care of them.
Millions of pet owners might admit there’s no limit to what they would do to protect their pets, but even the most devoted dog owner or cat caregiver recognizes that age can catch up to companion animals. Much like humans can’t stop their own bodies from aging, pet owners have little recourse against Father Time when it comes to caring for their pets. The American Veterinary Medical Association
It can be disconcerting to new dog owners when they discover their pooches whimpering, shaking or seemingly crying in their sleep. Although there may be some rare instances when this behavior is linked to pain and distress, by and large it is a natural response in many animals when they doze off. Although there is no exact way to measure what is going on in the pup’s mind, experts like Dr. Bonnie V.G. Beaver, DVM, author of Canine Behavior Insights, says the main reason that dogs produce noises in their sleep is that they are probably dreaming during the REM phases in their sleep cycles.
notes that cats and dogs are living longer now than ever before, so it’s good for pet owners to familiarize themselves with common health issues that can affect older pets.
Senior pets
The AVMA notes that cats are generally considered “senior” after 10 years of age. It’s a little harder to pinpoint when dogs enter their golden years, as the size disparity between breeds affects their senior status, or lack thereof.
The AVMA notes small or toy breeds (less than 20 pounds) acquire “senior” status between eight and 11 years of age; medium-sized breeds (20 to 50 pounds) between eight and 10 years of age; large breeds (50 to 90 pounds) between eight and nine years of age; and giant breeds (more than 90
pounds) between six and seven years of age.
Cancer and senior pets
The AVMA reports that cancer is the cause of death in roughly 50 percent of all dogs and around one-third of senior cats. Cancer in pets may produce a variety of symptoms, including:
• Abdominal swelling
• Bleeding from the mouth or nose or other body openings
• Difficulty eating or swallowing
• Breathing difficulties
• Lumps, bumps or discolored skin
• Sores that will not heal
• Persistent diarrhea or vomiting
• Decreased appetite or body weight
• Swelling, heat, pain, or lameness that cannot be explained
Sweet doggy dreams?
Dogs, just like humans, have the potential for vivid dreams while
their tails, twitching their paws, fluttering their jowels, or making
sleeping, as evidenced by looking at dogs’ brain waves during REM sleep. During these phases, dogs may show movement like wagging
Additional issues affecting aging pets
Though cancer is responsible for a significant percentage of deaths among senior cats and dogs, it’s not the only issue that can affect aging pets. The AVMA notes a number of common health problems affect pets as they age, including:
• Heart disease: The Animal Medical Center, a New York-based nonprofit organization, notes degenerative valve disease, dilated cardiomyopathy and heartworm disease are common types of heart disease in dogs. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a common heart disease found in cats.
• Kidney or urinary tract disease: The Veterinary Diagnostic Library at Michigan State University notes that chronic kidney disease affects up to 10 percent of aging dogs and 35 percent
of aging cats.
• Liver disease
• Diabetes: The AVMA reports that diabetes is most often diagnosed in dogs between the ages of seven and 10 and in cats older than six years of age.
• Joint or bone disease
• Overweight or obesity
• Vision or hearing loss: The AVMA notes senior pets can develop cataracts
that affect their vision and may not respond as well to voice commands as they did when they were younger. Cats and dogs are living longer. Pet parents can prepare for their pets’ golden years by learning about common ailments that affect aging animals.
izations and movements are completely normal. However, if they are new behaviors, it could be worth a discussion with a veterinarian. Also, new pet owners should know that a dog who makes noise while napping, may also do so during the night, and should not be overly concerned if they are woken from bed by pet noises. The general consensus is to simply let the pooch be as he or she works through those REM stages.
noises like whimpers. In some cases, dogs also may bark while sleeping, says PetMD. Pet owners should rest assured that very likely these vocal-
1 year old, German Shepherd Morgan & Hadyn
1 year old, Mini Bernedoodle Haylee & Kaden
Mr. Butters 3 years old , Domestic Short Hair
3 Months, Mixed Colby & Susan Guyer
Maximus & Miss Bee
13 years, beagle/pit bull 2 years, GSD Joe &
3 years old, Corgi Lindsey Fultz
Lesa Kramer
Millie
Danielle Snyder
Carolyn Powers Nala
Erin Cavanaugh
Nola
years old, Shih Tzu
Rachel Burchfield
Rachel Reesman
Jon & Christie Wagner
All of our Cats are tested for Feline Leukemia and FIV. They are Spayed and/or Neutered as well as litter trained.
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1 1/2 years old, Mini Goldendoodle
Rachel Burchfield
Energy levels and exercise needs merit consideration before adopting a new dog
following are five popular breeds and their corresponding exercise needs.
Dogs add a whole new element to a family dynamic. Parents may adopt a dog not only because they love these loyal animals, but also because they hope to instill a sense of responsibility in young children who will be tasked with helping to take care of the family’s furry new friend.
The level of interaction dogs require can vary greatly among the breeds. There’s no shortage of breeds to consider as families look for a
new dog, and it can help to recognize which dogs are especially energetic and which might be more enthusiastic about cuddle sessions on the couch. It’s also worth noting that each individual dog is unique, so just because a dog is a certain breed does not mean it will automatically behave exactly the same as other dogs of the same breed. However, breed reputation can be a good barometer as families look to bring a new dog into the fold. The
1. Akita: Akitas originated in Japan, and it’s not uncommon to refer to this beautiful breed as the Japanese Akita. American Akitas also are popular, and these dogs may have higher energy levels than those from Japan. Akitas are large dogs and require regular walks and daily play sessions with their owners.
2. Bichon Frise: These small, cheerful pups require ample attention. Bichons typically weight between 10 and 18 pounds, so owners are unlikely to be exhausted by daily play sessions, which are necessary to ensure the dogs do not become overwhelmed by separation anxiety.
3. Dachsund (standard): These highly affectionate dogs typically weigh be-
tween 16 and 32 pounds. Dachsunds’ stature can be deceptive in relation to their energy levels, as the American Kennel Club notes these dogs love to play and can even make for fine watch-
and therefore vulnerable to disc damage if the dogs don’t stay fit.
4. French bulldog: French bulldogs do not require an especially high level of exercise. According to the AKC,
dogs. Ample exercise is vital to ensure dachsunds don’t gain a lot of weight, and physical activity also helps them build strong muscles that support and protect their backs, which are lengthy
a short walk or outdoor play session should be enough daily exercise for these lovable, bat-eared pups to stay in shape. Like English bulldogs, French bulldogs are flat-faced, which means they
Tips to care for outdoor cats
Pet preferences vary across the world, but dogs and cats are beloved companion animals in many corners of the globe. According to the 2022 Statista Global Consumer Survey, dogs have a good lead over their feline counterparts in the United States, mainland China, the United Kingdom, and Japan. However, in Germany, cats and dogs are kept by a nearly equal number of pet owners.
Even though cats may not be as popular as dogs, they are widely found in homes. They also may be spending time outside of homes. While there are plenty of feral cats, or those that have grown up outdoors with little to no social interaction with humans, even many domesticated cats spend ample time outdoors.
Most veterinarians feel it is safer to keep cats indoors, where they are not exposed to disease or trauma. However, many cats are simply not happy without fresh air. In such instances, here’s how pet parents can care for cats who need some breathing room.
Leash-train the cat
The American Humane Society suggests leash-training cats that want to be outdoors. Much like having a dog on a leash prevents the pet from running off and getting lost or injured, cats who may be a little too independent for their own good can be curtailed with leashes.
Vaccinate and fix the animal
Cats that are exposed to
the outdoors are more susceptible to diseases that can be harmful or even fatal. Speak with a vet about which vaccines the cat will require if he or she is going to be spending considerable time outdoors.
Also, while it is recommended for all companion
animals to be spayed or neutered, it is especially important for those with access to the outdoors to prevent unwanted mating that can exacerbate overpopulation issues. Plus, animals that are fixed are less likely to roam or fight.
should be monitored closely and prevented from exerting themselves in hot or humid weather.
5. German shepherd: German shepherds are large, agile and muscular, and those characteristics alone likely give prospective owners an idea of what to expect from these beautiful dogs in relation to exercise. The AKC notes German shepherds are very active and athletic, so they will need lots of exercise. Without sufficient exercise, German shepherds may develop problematic behaviors.
Careful consideration of a breed’s energy levels and exercise requirements can ensure families find a dog that will suit their situations and schedules at home.
Create a shelter
In addition to providing free access to the home by way of a cat door, outdoor access cats may benefit from a home in the yard. This can protect the cat from weather or other animals. A pet owner can build a shelter or purchase pre-made varieties that resemble a chicken coop. It’s also best to ensure cats have access to fresh water while outside. Regularly inspect the shelter to keep it clean and in good repair.
Consider a “catio”
Some cats will be satisfied with something that lets fresh air in without having to be completely outdoors. A “catio” is an outdoor ledge or enclosure for cats that is covered by grating or mesh, according to Habitat Have. It can be attached to a win-
dow or be freestanding in an area of the yard, providing a lounging spot that is outdoors but protected.
Provide identification
Cat caregivers can microchip cats and ensure they are wearing the proper identification. If the cat cannot find its way home, there is a greater chance the animal will be found if identification is present or a chip has been installed.
Although cats are safest indoors, with some precautions, cats can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.
