Resources
Adopting: The Rule of 3s
We know you’re eager to bond with your new pet, but it usually doesn’t happen overnight! The 3-3-3 Rule outlines the adjustment period your pet will need as they get used to their new home.
Behavior Challenges
Animals often behave in ways we don’t understand — and since we can’t ask them about their behavior directly (like we can with humans), it can feel challenging to address behavior we don’t like.
Behavior Challenges: Barking
Your dog barks to communicate, and there are a variety of reasons why. Social barking, territorial barking, attention-seeking barking, warning barking and request barking are all examples of barking that typically occurs in short bursts and are in response to a specific event or occurrence.
Behavior Challenges: Destructive Chewing
It’s normal for dogs (especially puppies!) to use their mouths to explore the world. However, dogs may chew things they aren’t supposed to if they aren’t getting enough mental or physical exercise or if they are experiencing challenges such as anxiety or teething.
Behavior Challenges: Does Your Pet Not Like to Be Touched?
Pets who respond to certain forms of handling with fear, anxiety, arousal or aggression may be considered “handling sensitive.” This can be problematic, because most pet parents would like to pet, handle or cuddle their pets — and basic forms of handling are often required to keep cats and dogs healthy.
Behavior Challenges: Escape Behavior in Dogs
One of the most serious behavioral issues a dog owner can face is escaping, as it can lead to tragic consequences. If your dog escapes and is running loose, they are in danger of being hit by a car or injured in other ways.
Behavior Challenges: Excessive Meowing
Does your cat meow nonstop for food? Are they waking you at 3 a.m. with their special song? There are many reasons why cats are vocal, and this guide is here to help you troubleshoot.
Behavior Challenges: Fear of Loud Noises
Thunder, fireworks or other loud sounds often scare pets, even if a pet hasn’t had a negative experience tied to the loud noise. This is entirely understandable!
Behavior Challenges: Inappropriate Scratching
Scratching is a natural behavior for cats, but we often have to teach them which objects in our home are meant for kitty claws. Let’s dive into how you can encourage your cat to scratch appropriately!
Behavior Challenges: Litter Box Issues
When a cat stops using their litter box, it’s never a fun experience — for you or for them! The good news is that this behavior can typically be resolved, and we are here to help!
Behavior Challenges: Overexcited and Energetic Cats
One of the best things about having a cat is watching them play! There’s something undeniably adorable about watching a cat run, leap or skid across the floor and then take off in the opposite direction to start all over again.
Behavior Challenges: Reactivity on Leash
Dog-reactive dogs often respond to other dogs by becoming visibly aroused — which can look like pulling toward them, barking, growling or lunging. Reactivity is not necessarily related to a dog’s sociability, as many dog-reactive dogs can show social behaviors in other situations.