The Pet Experts of Elmhurst, IL

Despite our desire to understand what’s going on inside a cat’s adorable head, we humans occasionally miss the mark. 

But why?

Your cat responds to various instincts and behaviors that were inherited from generations of felines over the millennia. Even though the modern cat is far removed from their earliest ancestors, today’s house cats have retained similarly distinct body language and corresponding preferences. 

As odd as it may seem, one of the driving behavioral factors inherited from their ancestors is whether they like to perch on high surfaces or prefer to be close to the ground. 

It’s hard to imagine a culture that doesn’t celebrate and support our feline friends, but it took a long time for cats to take their rightful place at the top of the pet podium. 

In fact, their entire species has been on a bit of a rollercoaster ride over thousands of years. Ancient people loved them for ridding agricultural storage of rodents, but then in the Middle Ages their fates took a turn. A dive into the fascinating history of cat ownership should foster a deeper appreciation of our feline friends.

The Pet Experts at Elmhurst Animal Care Center love dogs of all kinds. Long-haired, short-haired, athletic, couch potatoes, they all have a special place in our hearts. 

When one pictures (wo)man’s best friend, often images of doting Labradors or protective Shepherds come to mind. We know through personal experience, though, that small dogs earn just as much love as their more massive counterparts.

The small dog has earned respect and love from dog lovers everywhere, and they deserve to be recognized, too. 

When we watch our dogs stalk and chase “prey”, we are reminded of their wild wolfish ancestors. Behaviors aside, there are other links to their interesting past. 

Dewclaws offer a glimpse into the canine evolutionary process. Millions of years ago, they were necessary for climbing trees and rough terrain. Over time, dew claws changed to accommodate more speed while running and hunting. 

Thumbs Up?

You’re likely well aware that your dog has a little toe that sits up a little higher than the other digits. The dew claws are attached to these toes, don’t touch the ground, and are referred to as “thumbs”.

Most cat owners are keenly aware of their fluffy friend’s likes and dislikes and work hard to either provide an abundance of these things, or eliminate them altogether. 

Cats are anything but subtle. However, sometimes we don’t always know exactly how to spoil them. A little tuna juice from the can? An extra catnip mouse or two? These ideas may sometimes fall a little flat. Not to worry, the Pet Experts have brainstormed 5 ways you can pamper your cat. And why not? They deserve it.

There may have been some adjustments in the beginning of stay-at-home orders, but most pets have gotten used to their owners being around all day, every day. 

However, many pet owners that previously sheltered in place are getting back to work, or heading to school for stretches of time their pets have likely forgotten about. Plus, many pets adopted right before or during quarantine haven’t fully experienced alone time. As a result, pet separation anxiety is a real threat facing our four-legged friends.

We all are a little more wary about the chemicals that exist around us in the world. As science advances we have learned more and more about how they can affect us and those we love.

Pesticides in the home are no different, yet there is some line where we just have to use something to protect our property from unwanted invaders.

Thankfully, pet safe pesticides do exist, and The Pet Experts at Elmhurst Animal Care Center know all about them.

Believe it or not, dog sunscreen is available for use on pets who spend time outdoors. It protects them from sunburn as well as reduces the risk of certain skin cancers. Like us, our dogs are susceptible to the effects of long hours under the UV rays. Not only can the intense summer sun cause skin damage, it can also lead to heatstroke and other heat related problems. 

Through the use of dog sunscreen, you can keep your pet’s skin in good health. The Pet Experts at Elmhurst Animal Care Center are here to tell you all about some great options in sun protection for our furry family members.

Cats are widely perceived as solitary, independent, or aloof pets. They may not be as demanding as dogs, but that doesn’t mean they don’t require – or benefit from – company, interaction, and affection. 

The truth is, cats need close companionship, and value their owner’s involvement in their day-to-day needs. Unfortunately, separation anxiety in cats is a natural consequence of our busy lifestyles, but it doesn’t have to have a lasting impact on feline health.

Understanding the Scope Cat Separation Anxiety

A bonded cat is a beautiful thing, but a deep connection to their owner can have a profound impact on their ability to cope with solitude. Separation anxiety in cats can cause many different symptoms, such as:

Raising a happy and healthy dog comes with a certain set of requirements: a nutritious diet, regular wellness care, vaccinations and parasite prevention, daily exercise, and lots of love (of course). Few people think of socialization as an important aspect of pet care, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. 

Dog and puppy socialization is the backbone of your pet’s emotional health and physical safety. In this age of social distancing, however, people are finding it difficult to make sure their new pets get plenty of exposure to the great big world. The Pet Experts want you to know that it is possible to socialize your pet while social distancing, and maybe even have a little bit of fun in the process.