When Melissa’s father died and her mother moved into a nursing home, Melissa adopted her parent’s poodle, Margot. During the three-hour drive to her house from where her mother was staying, Margot was shaking and afraid. Melissa stopped at the pet shop and bought Margot some of her favorite chewable steak bites and a toy, […]
Should a Loved One with a Dementia Diagnosis Have a Pet?
Dear Hayek, My grandmother Ruth has a small black mixed-breed pup named Angus. She is very fond of Angus and takes him everywhere. Ruth was diagnosed with dementia a couple of years ago. She still takes good care of Angus, but what happens when it becomes more severe and she forgets to walk him or […]
Fospice Care for Senior Pets in Fairfax
Dear Angel, I know when humans are in their last months of life, their families may opt for hospice care. What happens to animals in their last months of life if they don’t have a loving home? Karen Forpetz — Dear Karen, Some pets may be elderly with cancer, limited mobility, or no teeth, but […]
Did Karl Lagerfeld Just Leave $210 Million to His Cat?
Dear Angel, I heard that Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel’s late artistic director, left the bulk of his £150 million fortune (approximately $210 million dollars according to today’s exchange rate) to his cat, Choupette. It makes me wish that I was her (the cat!) I have a beautiful, loyal, sweet, and smart labradoodle named Chewy, who I […]
Estate Planning for Your Pet
Dear Bebe, I inherited a macaw from my deceased sister several years ago. My husband and I are in our 60s, but I know these birds can live long time and could be around a lot longer than us. I don’t know anyone personally who would want to take on the responsibility. What can we […]
Having a Furry Friend May Extend Your Life
Dear Bebe, I am considering getting a cat similar to you for my mother, who lives alone and doesn’t get much exercise. I heard pets have been known to promote longevity and social interaction. If it’s okay with her and her landlord, do you think it’s a good idea? I have a beloved poodle myself. […]
Oscar the Cat and Other Incredible Therapy Animals
Oscar is a cat who was adopted as a kitten from an animal hospital. Sounds pretty typical, huh? Well, when it comes to cats, Oscar is anything BUT typical. What makes Oscar so extraordinary is that he is a cat with a supernatural ability to feel when people are about to die. In over 50 […]
Take Your Emotional Support Animal with you ANYWHERE!
Q. Since my wife, Linda, and I retired, we travel a lot. A few weeks ago, when we flew to San Diego, we saw someone with a dog in the cabin of the plane, sitting on the owner’s lap, and the flight attendant didn’t say anything about it. The dog was small enough to fit […]
Spending Forever with Your Pet
Dear Saki and Alley, I am very attached to my cat, Jessie. We have been through thick and thin together. When I die, I would like to be buried with her. Is this a possibility? Love, Mike Att-Forever —————– Dear Mike, 62% of households own and love pets, including cats, dogs, birds, fish and more. When it comes […]
Amazing Pets – Saving Senior’s Lives
Q. My mother, Jessica, lives alone and is considering adopting a pet. I am all in favor, but know it is a lot of work and vet visits are often expensive. For me, these things are certainly worth it. Despite the grooming costs, the heartworm pills, and the occasional sick visit, I wouldn’t give up […]