Immediately following the attacks of 9/11, nearly 100 trained search dogs and their handlers—enlisted from 18 U.S. states—were deployed by FEMA to join the rescue efforts at the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.

Though all the heroic 9/11 dogs have since passed, their memory is still with us today. Seeing images of the dogs working tirelessly around the clock to locate survivors in the rubble alongside firemen and other teams sorting through the debris, showed us just how brave dogs really can be.

These same images deeply intrigued Dutch photographer Charlotte Dumas as the events unfolded in the news media. One decade after 9/11, discovering that only 15 of these dogs were still alive, Dumas succeeded in tracking each of them down, traveling across nine states in the U.S. from Texas to Maryland. Dumas captured the remaining dogs living out their twilight years in their homes where they lived with their handlers, a full decade on from 9/11. Composed at close range in natural light, Dumas’ powerful portraits offered an intimate view into the everyday lives of these highly specialized working animals, sharing the vulnerability of old age as they once pursued a common heroic goal.
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Pet Heroes |

Can you modify cat behavior with other cats so they become friends? Cats are wonderfully complex creatures. If you’re reading this article, it may be because you adopted a new cat or are thinking about adopting a new cat, and you have another cat or cats and are looking for tips to help all your cats get along. We’re here to help!
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Best of Adopting a Cat, Best of Cat Behavior and Training |

By Dr. Dan Carey, Bayer Veterinarian

Be it a road trip, a cross-country move, or even just a short trip to see friends or the vet, it’s almost inevitable that your cat or dog will need to be in a car at some point. Follow these tips as you prepare for and set off on your journey to help ensure a safe and comfortable ride for your pet.

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Best of Cat Safety, Best of Cat Tips, Best of Dog Safety, Best of Dog Tips |

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Best of Adopting a Cat, Best of Adopting a Dog, Best of Cat Health, Best of Cat Safety, Best of Dog Health, Best of Dog Safety |

By Dr. Dan Carey, Bayer Veterinarian

Collar technology (yes, flea collars have technology now) has come a long way. And just like mobile phones, cars and even vacuums, new improvements can enhance performance that might surprise you.

Today’s pet owners have new choices that result in effective, long-lasting flea prevention that’s as simple as attaching a collar. Newer technology can include flexible designs, non-greasy applications and adjustability for a comfortable fit. Applying a collar takes only moments and protection can last for months. It is important that the collar be applied and fitted according to its instructions.

Best of Cat Basic Care, Best of Cat Health, Best of Dog Basic Care, Best of Dog Health |

By Dr. Dan Carey, Bayer Veterinarian

While many owners still lovingly refer to their dogs as “puppy” or “baby” at any age, we know each day together is another day that time progresses. As they mature and change,

how we care for senior dogs changes, too. Help support their changing activity, health and nutritional needs with tailored vitamins and supplements for older dogs.

When is a dog a senior dog?

There’s no pre-set age that determines when your dog is a senior dog, although many dogs are considered seniors when they reach the last 25% of their projected lifespan. In general, smaller dog breeds live longer than larger dog breeds, but genetics, diet, and overall care throughout your dog’s life play a role in how your dog ages.  Most large and giant breeds should be managed as seniors beginning at about six years of age while medium and small breeds can use special support starting at eight. Regardless of how your dog is acting – puppy-like or not – her system is changing. (more…)

Best of Dog Basic Care, Best of Dog Health |

Congratulations! You must be so excited about bringing your newly adopted cat or kitten! I imagine that’s why you’re here, reading this blog article about the 1st day with your new cat (or kitten). Maybe you adopted one already from a shelter, and are just waiting for him (or her!) to get fixed so you can go pick him up and bring him home. Or maybe you’re getting ready to adopt, and want to know what to expect on day one with a new cat or kitten in your home. As a cat and kitten rescue foster volunteer, and an adoptions counselor at a shelter for a decade, I’ve had a lot of both first- and second-hand experience with what it can be like on your new cat’s first day home. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare, so you can be ready to make the first day the best it can be, and get the rest of your life together off to a good start! (more…)

Best of Adopting a Cat, Best of Cat Basic Care |

Fourth of July is just around the corner and you are likely eagerly preparing for all the fun festivities the day brings. How can you beat lounging in the backyard with a good BBQ, friends and family, and beautiful fireworks lighting up the night sky. Sure, it’s a ton of fun for us humans, but our furry friends probably don’t see it the same way. (more…)

Best of Cat Safety, Best of Dog Safety, Best of Dog Tips |

Courtesy of Creative Commons. Photo by: U.S. Air Force Technical Sgt. Dawn M. Price

Home dental care is one of the most important ways to maintain your pet’s health. Dogs and cats with unchecked gum inflammation may be at higher risk for heart, kidney, and liver disease. And, unfortunately, dental disease is by far the most common major health problem of cats and dogs, making caring for your pet’s teeth just as important as providing him with a well-balanced diet, plenty of fresh, clean water and proper exercise. (more…)

Best of Cat Basic Care, Best of Dog Basic Care |