Commentary Few would argue this statement, “No matter their age or lifestyle, regular vet care matters and it can help cats thrive.” But getting owners of ostensibly happy cats to establish routine veterinary visits is a challenge our industry faces in 2026 and beyond. Communicating with cat owners is an important element of moving toward routine veterinary visits and … [Read more...]
Music as medicine
Scientists are learning how music can do more than lift our mood — from easing anxiety to helping experimental drugs reach the brain. Source: AXIOS, December 8, 2025. Link. Music has the power to stimulate our body’s reward system, like the way that warmth, food, and social connection do. Music may relieve stress for your patients, customers, and animal healthcare … [Read more...]
Pet safety tips: Avoid troubles from counters, treats and holiday distractions
Sponsor Content The holidays can spell trouble for pets as decorations, holiday treats and those wondrous new smells fill the home. Add in the distractions from guests and gatherings and it’s easy for curious cats and dogs to get into trouble. AHD Sponsor, ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance Program, has effective pet safety reminders available to share with pet owners. They are … [Read more...]
Are veterinary teams obligated to discuss the option of pet insurance?
In February 2024, Alyssa Watson, DVM, and Beth Molleson, DVM, discussed the veterinary team’s role in pet owner education, including lifetime costs of pet care and pet insurance options. They debated the pros, cons and limitations veterinary teams experience during a Veterinary Breakroom podcast. Fast forward to this year. Jennifer Sperry, DVM, broke down key differences … [Read more...]
National Pet Health Insurance month is here
Sponsor Content September is Pet Health Insurance Month. It is a great time to explore how pet insurance can be a game-changer for pet parents and veterinary professionals alike. It’s more than a safety net; it’s a way to ensure pets get the care they need without financial stress. Now through September 30th, connect with an ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance representative to … [Read more...]
Decoding pet insurance: Navigating policies and client questions (podcast)
Confused about pet insurance? You are not alone, and veterinary clients probably are, too. In this podcast, Jennifer Sperry, DVM, breaks down key differences between accident, illness, and wellness policies. She demystifies deductibles and highlights what veterinary professionals need to know when talking with pet owners. Although recommending specific policies … [Read more...]
Mental health care and dogs
Sponsor Content In a recent post, Wendy Hauser, DVM, shared what we need to know about the mental health care of our cats <Link>. In this parallel article from the ASPCA® Pet Health Program, Hauser addresses canine mental health care beginning with the three most common mental health issues dog owners experience with their dogs: a) anxiety, b) depression and c) … [Read more...]
Mental health considerations for cats
We often see articles about the mental health and emotional benefits cats provide to us when we suffer with mental health issues. But do cats experience sadness? Wendy Hauser, DVM, shares what we need to know and consider when it comes to the mental health care of our cats in this article from the ASPCA® Pet Health Program. Hauser covers feline depression, anxiety and … [Read more...]
New lifestage infographics support pet owner education and identify health needs
More than half of U.S. pet owners skip or decline needed veterinary care <Link>, according to a recent study. Veterinary care need not be out of reach for most pet owners, but educating them is required to improve adherence to important veterinary care. Two new infographics from ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance Program will help animal health pros discuss wellness and … [Read more...]