Hounds on the Highway

  Disclaimer:   I’m sharing this story based on my personal experience of navigating a congestive heart failure (CHF) diagnosis with my dog. This blog post is for general informational purposes only and is   not   veterinary advice, a diagnosis, or a substitute for professional care. Every dog’s situation is different, and symptoms can change quickly. If you’re concerned about your dog’s breathing, coughing, energy level, appetite, or overall comfort—especially if symptoms worsen or appear suddenly—please contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away. The Day We Heard “Congestive Heart Failure”  A personal experience—plus what we learned to watch for, and when to worry. We’ll never forget how ordinary the day started. Our 11-year-old Miniature Schnauzer had been slowing down a bit, but we chalked it up to age. Then little things started stacking up: shallow breathing that didn’t seem to settle, less interest in food, and a kind of nighttim...

  Car Safety for Dogs: Simple Tips That Can Save a Life Whether you’re running to the vet, heading to the groomer, or road-tripping with your best friend, car rides can be one of the riskiest parts of a dog’s day. The good news: a few small changes can make travel dramatically safer—for your dog   and   for you. Here’s a practical guide to keeping dogs secure, calm, and protected on every ride. Why car safety matters more than people think A loose dog in a moving vehicle isn’t just a distraction—it’s a safety hazard. Sudden stops, sharp turns, or a crash can turn an unrestrained pet into a projectile. Even without an accident, an anxious dog can climb into the front seat, interfere with pedals, or bolt out the door the second it opens. The safest ways to secure your dog in the car 1) Use a crash-tested harness + seat belt tether A properly fitted harness that connects to the seat belt system is one of the easiest upgrades you can make. It keeps your dog from roaming and ...

  Betty White’s Other Legacy: How America’s Golden Girl Became a Lifelong Animal Advocate Most people remember Betty White for her comedic timing, her warmth, and the kind of humor that never punched down. But to countless animal lovers, her real superpower was what she did when the cameras weren’t rolling: she showed up—again and again—for animals who couldn’t speak for themselves. Her advocacy wasn’t a “celebrity cause of the month.” It was decades of hands-on work, board service, fundraising, public education, and support for research that helped animals live longer, healthier lives. ( Biography ) A love of animals that started early—and never faded Betty White often spoke about how deeply her love for animals ran, tracing it back to childhood and to parents who adored animals too. Over time, that personal affection became a public mission: if she had a platform, she was going to use it for the creatures who needed people to care. ( Biography ) She used TV to make people care (a...