News

When it comes to choosing a pet, a rat probably isn’t high on most people’s lists. In fact, rats are probably more often identified as vermin than companion animals. But a growing number of people are choosing rats as pets, and find the much-maligned rodents to be affectionate and intelligent companions. Dr. Javier Nevarez, assistant professor of zoological medicine at the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, discusses why a rat makes a surprisingly good choice for a pet. READ MORE»

As a result of new surgical techniques and medications, advances in the control of infectious disease, and changing attitudes toward our pets, dogs are living longer than ever, presenting a new challenge to many pet owners: how best to care for senior ... READ MORE»

The human-animal bond has never been stronger. Pet owners increasingly demand the best for their pets, whether it be food, toys, comfort, or medical care. One area of a pet’s health that has long been overlooked is dental care. Not only can overlooked oral hygiene cause unpleasant breath, it can lead to serious disease, even death. Dr Jan Bellows, a board-certified veterinary dentist with All Pets Dental in Westin, Fla., discusses the importance of dental care in young pets. READ MORE»

Sometimes referred to as feline AIDS, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (F.I.V.) was first discovered in cats in 1986 and today affects approximately 1 percent to 3 percent of cats in the United States. Dr. Bernadine Cruz, a small animal veterinarian in La... READ MORE»

More U.S. households own pets than ever before. And while our houses can provide wonder shelter and comfort to our pets, they can also present some significant hazards. Dr. Steven Hansen, senior vice president at the American Society for the Prevention... READ MORE»

Ferrets have a loyal following among wide sections of the American public, with associations, magazines, and, increasingly, veterinarians dedicated to this curious critter. Dr. Connie Orcutt, exotic pet specialist at Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in ... READ MORE»