Photo Credit: © Blair O’Neill   For as long as I can remember, I’ve been squeamish about using the word “owner” to describe my relationship with my pets. Ownership of a living, breathing creature with whom I share a rich and meaningful relationship simply d... [More]

  To all of you I extend my heartfelt best wishes for a joyous and peaceful holiday season and much good health and happiness throughout the new year. In addition to all the commitments on your holiday to do list, I hope you will carve out some “doggie down time” dedicated to cuddl... [More]

  Photo Credit: Blair O'Neil   A number of recent court cases have debated the issue of financial compensation for emotional damages stemming from the negligent loss of a pet. While court systems within the United States view our furry and feathered family members as “property&rdqu... [More]

Nothing quite tickles my heart like stories conveying the human animal connection. Sometimes such stories put a big goofy grin on my face, and sometimes they cause my eyes and nose to become uncontrolled leaky faucets. Needless to say, I prefer the former to the latter! [More]

I first heard of Dr. Leo K Bustad in association with the Bustad Companion Animal Veterinarian of the Year Award. Since 1986 this award has been bestowed upon veterinarians whose work exemplifies and promotes the human animal bond. When I first learned of the award I remember thinking, how fabulous to honor this important professional achievement rather than the academic/research accomplishments more commonly recognized within the profession. [More]