Well, it’s not that often I am bemused by a news clip, but something made me sit up and take notice today: Headlines reported “large cat spooks eastern Pittsburgh” Even though I live north and not east, I just had to read about this monsterous attack kitty. It turns out that folks had been reporting... read more

In the veterinary world, doctors who take care of horses and donkeys are often referred to as “large animal” vets. It doesn’t matter if the miniature pony or donkey is no larger than a big dog. I have a feeling that the main difference is the size and amount of that which gets left behind, so... read more

Well, I haven’t written about my cats for some time now, but it’s a case of “no news is good news.” Today I must share with you the frustration of furry children who decide to play in the middle of the night. Normally, our household is calm from about 11 PM-when Ruby finishes her job of carrying... read more

As those of you who regularly read these blogs may remember, I have recently gotten back into horseback riding. It began as an effort to influence my daughter to do something-anything-physicial, and has morphed into my getting back into the saddle for half of her lesson. But all is not lost; my daughter... read more

Over the weekend I had the pleasure of revisiting the experience of horseback riding. It still thrills, as you “horse people” out there may have already suspected. Last month, I met a lady who has owned horses for most of her life. She invited me to meet her “baby” (who is 17 hands tall, or... read more

Many folks arrive home from a seaside vacation with at least one addition to the family. Hermit crabs make interesting pets, but it’s good to know ahead of time what’s involved. Hermit crabs are social creatures and like company. (This isn’t just a sales pitch to buy more; it’s clear that hermit... read more

Last week, I had to take one of my cats to the vet’s because his pupils were different sizes and shapes. The doctor felt that his advanced age may be causing some retina deterioration, and I had to administer 4 drops a day into his eye for 10 days. This visit and drops cost over $78. Since the... read more

To-date, I’ve moved 9 times within a 5-year span.  No, I’m not in the military, nor do I have record of evictions.  My moves have all been voluntary or work-related, and by now, I consider myself an expert in the art of packing, moving, and unpacking.  My last three moves have involved... read more

Dogs are one of the most popular pets in the United States. With dogs come many trials and also much joy. One of the most frequently complained about problems that come with a dog is their bark. A dog’s bark can not only be disruptive, but it can be very nerve racking for the owner and everyone... read more

It is truly amazing what some cats find to be funny. Quite often, cats will let their humans know how they want to play, because it fits in with their general attitude of life, which is, “I run this place”. Other times, they forget humans entirely and simply do what amuses them. Cat owners never... read more