Amy Shojai's Blog, page 30

Cold Weather Pet Protection Tips

Cold Weather Pet Protection Tips

Cold weather pet protection becomes more in winter weather. Here in North Texas we're bracing for temps to drop. Forecasts predict dangerously cold weather all over the country. Wind chill makes it even more uncomfortable or even dangerous for our dogs and cats.

Outside animals, like feral cats or stray dogs, suffer greatly from hypothermia or frostbite. House pets used to warm indoor temps need extra help, too. It seemed like a good time to remind everyone about cold weather pet protection.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Remembering Seren with Holiday Sparkles, A Cat-Mas Story

Remembering Seren with Holiday Sparkles, A Cat-Mas Story

Seren arrived at a time we'd been pet-less for many years. A friend called to tell me she'd found a kitten--and could I help? The wannabe Siamese baby climbed up my leg, wrapped her chocolate paws around my neck, and purred her way into my heart. It was, indeed, Serendipity that we found each other.

That was more than two decades ago. She inspired my cat writing, hated and finally tolerated "that !@#$%!!!-dawg" when Magic arrived (and outweighed her even as a pup!). And Seren tolerated and ultimately loved her pesky cat brother, Karma. Seren's tiny frame packed a powerful presence for over 21 years, and now the house echoes with her absence. We mourn, oh how we mourn . . .

But at Christmas time, we remember and we smile. You see, Seren had a way about her, to win over even the most reluctant cat lover--with holiday sparkles. Read on!

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

13 Pet Holiday Dangers to Avoid: How to Keep Cats & Dogs Safe

13 Pet Holiday Dangers to Avoid: How to Keep Cats & Dogs Safe

I write about pet holiday dangers every year. This listicle (and a fun infographic at the bottom) offers more than a dozen problems. I've included links to more detailed information for those wanting a deeper dive on all the must-knows for pet holiday safety!

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

The 2022 Holiday Gift Guide for Cat Lovers

The 2022 Holiday Gift Guide for Cat Lovers

‘Tis the season, cat lovers! I already shared this on my dog lovers’ gift guide but it bears repeating. I remember one year when my dad sent me a pastel portrait of my Siamese wannabe Seren (with Magical-Dawg). They’d NEVER get that close in real life! That painting is one of my favorite treasures to […]

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

The 2022 Holiday Gift Guide for Dog Lovers

The 2022 Holiday Gift Guide for Dog Lovers

‘Tis the season, dog lovers! I remember one year when my dad sent me a pastel portrait of my German Shepherd, Magic (with the cat). They'd NEVER get that close in real life! That painting is one of my favorite treasures to this day. Finding the perfect gift for your dog and dog-obsessed friends and family can be tricky. But it’s so worth it to see their huge smile when they unwrap that pawsome present!

If you’re on the hunt for dog-riffic gifts, look no further. You’re sure to find something outrageously fun, quirky, adorable or practical for the dog-loving people and dogs in your life...including my books. *s*

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

10 Tips for Moving With Pets to a New Home: Getting Pets Used to a New Place

10 Tips for Moving With Pets to a New Home: Getting Pets Used to a New Place

Moving With Pets to a New Home: Getting Pets Used to a New Place

Moving with pets raises human stress levels and your cats and dogs are no different. While many dogs enjoy adventure and visiting unknown places (and smells!), cats bond closely with their home territory. Any change can put their tail in a twist when moving disrupts routine. An unfamiliar location, smells, and sounds raise levels of fear, anxiety, or stress (FAS).

With proper care, though, you can reduce or even eliminate the angst. Here are tips for moving with cats and dogs and helping them quickly acclimate to their new home.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Doggy DNA Misconceptions About Nature vs Nurture

Doggy DNA Misconceptions About Nature vs Nurture

Doggy DNA Misconceptions About Nature vs Nurture

Dog DNA tests today are popular because it influences both looks and behavior. Some dog breeds are known for specific tendencies. But socialization and training, and even mom-dog's nurturing influence, also impact dogs.

Some dogs have to deal with a “ruff” reputation based entirely on dog dna and what breed they are – or just look like. Pit Bulls for instance seem to get lots of bad press for dog-on-dog aggression, but we also call them the "Nanny Dog" because they're so darn good with kids. Other muscular dogs, big dogs like Rottweilers, Dobermans, German Shepherds, can get called out as aggressive, dangerous or problematic based entirely on their looks, before they ever show signs of a snarl. Of course, ALL dogs have teeth that can do damage, so understanding dog communication keeps you (and your kids) safe...

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

7 Tips How to Prepare Cats, Dogs, and People for Holiday Visits

7 Tips How to Prepare Cats, Dogs, and People for Holiday Visits

How to Prepare Cats, Dogs, and People for Holiday Visits

Holiday celebrations include visiting family and friends. It also means keeping pets safe during the holidays. Since we consider cats and dogs part of the family, pet holiday visits require special preparations. Changes to routine can increase fear, anxiety, and stress in everyone, and especially our pets. Hitting the road also raises stress levels, so unless your pets adore car travel, prepare with advice in this article. Here are some tips for reducing the angst once you arrive, so that everyone enjoys family pet holiday visits.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

How to Prepare If Pets Outlive You

How to Prepare If Pets Outlive You

We often lament the fact that dogs and cats don't live as long as we do. But what about the reverse—what if your pets live longer than you do? Are there legal protections you can take in planning for when your pets outlive you? We loved them dearly while alive, and must also care for them when we're gone with proper plans. And yes, it can happen totally out of the blue.

The unthinkable happens, even to animal professionals. Back in 2014, in the same week, our pet community felt rocked by the tragic and sudden deaths of two heroes, animal behaviorist Dr. Sophia Yin and Cat Writers Association president Dr. Lorie Huston. Dr. Yin left behind her beloved dog Jonesy, while my friend Lorie left six special needs rescue cats. CWA members networked to re-home Lorie's cats. More recently, the Cat Writers' Association again lost a beloved leader when president Paula Gregg passed away suddenly. She had time to make plans for her beloved Persian cats, Truffle and Brulee.

None of these wonderful pet lovers expected to have their pets outlive them. Do you have plans for your special pets? Here are tips for planning for when your pets outlive you.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Old Pets? 7 Cheap DIY Help for Old Fogey Dogs & Cats

Old Pets? 7 Cheap DIY Help for Old Fogey Dogs & Cats

Like older pets, I also move a wee bit slower than in my youth. Shadow-Pup helps keep me active and young, as well as chasing and engaging the more mature Karma-Kat. Aging dogs and senior cats rock!

I'll admit that senior pets have a special place in my heart, even if they suffer from senility. Maybe in part because I can more easily relate to them. Do you love old pets? Are you ready for some old dog and/or old cat love? Oh, here are 7 cheap DIY tips to help your old pets.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing