Pets prove to be recession-proof

While Americans willingly cut their spending on upscale restaurants during the Great Recession, their pets continued to dine on gourmet meals. 1371644224

• http://www.bls.gov/opub/btn/volume-2/spending-on-pets.htm

Pet Vet: Dealing with allergies

Bogie licks and chews at his feet to the point that they are now red and swollen. Pauline says her dog has been treated with various antibiotics and corticosteroids, but as the dosage of cortisone pills decreases, the incessant licking increases. Pauline has been told Bogie has allergies, and I would have to agree. 1371644029

Tips to beat the heat � for our canine friends

When the temperatures top out, the two-legged have a multitude of options to beat the heat. Without our assistance, dogs usually have just one - panting. 1371644030

Dr. Dolittler

No evidence that cranberry improves cats’ urinary health

Clinical trials in humans have had mixed results, with some showing that cranberry can be of benefit for urinary-tract issues. Alas, no veterinary studies found it fruitful for preventing or treating bacterial infections of the urinary tract in domesticated pets.

'Donkey farm' helps adults mentor young offenders

A boy at the Compass Center proudly showed a Summit County, Ohio, judge the eggplants he was tending in the center's garden.

Keeping your senior dog healthy and happy can require daily changes, preventive action

I never had a dog when I was growing up, and I thought I didn't want one, especially years ago when I had a harried household of three young sons and a husband. However, the guys outnumbered me during the debate about accepting the "free" Lab/chow puppy from my brother 15 Christmases ago.

Pet Vet: Should Alfred's wings be clipped?

It is common practice for people to have their bird's wings clipped in order to prevent it from flying. Jerry wonders if that is the right thing for Alfred, his palm cockatoo.

Dr. Dolittler

Service animals, large and small, have legal rights

As a veterinarian required to sign travel- and housing-related documentation for service dogs of all stripes, I’m often treated to stories similar to yours.

Pinecrest

Pet lovers renew hopes for Pinecrest dog park

Dog lovers see an opportunity as the village tries to buy land for a new park.