Ohio State University launches new online resource for pet owners

Pet ownership has certainly increased in the past 20 years. Having said that, many breeds of pets have been introduced into areas that might be challenging for them to thrive in due to living situations that are less-than-ideal as far as the geographic area that they spend time in, the time that their owners spend at work, or perhaps the amount and type of exercise that is made available to them.

That, coupled with the way that our communities are changing so quickly, it's no wonder that most species of pets are finding it difficult to be fulfilled.

Some breeds of dogs really need outlets that allow their inherent abilities to be used - like Border Collies, for example. If they don't get to use their skills, things can get pretty dicey. Cats exhibit behavior problems, too, regardless of the breed, if physical and mental needs are not met.

A few months ago, I wrote a piece on the Indoor Initiative for Cats, facilitated online by The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. The resource was great, because it gave cat owners a better understanding of cat behavior, and a realistic overview of  what their families can do to enhance their lives.

Flickr photo courtesy of PetteriO

Recently, though, I discovered that the website has been expanded to include canines as well and has been renamed The Indoor Pet Initiative.

The resource has been redesigned to address a range of topics related to health, emotional well-being, dog training and more. Practical tips, tools and ideas are available to help pet owners understand their pets better and to help them live the best life possible, from cradle to grave, so to speak.

Click here for more information.


Lorrie Shaw is a professional pet sitter and dog walker in Dexter Twp., MI and welcomes your contact via e-mail.