Spring has sprung and it’s finally warming up in Southern California! The longer days and inviting temperatures are making healthful activities tempting once again. We admit it, jogging in torrential rain is no fun. But even with perfect weather some of us could use a little encouragement to get off the couch.

Flea-borne (murine) typhus has been a hot topic in the recent news, but it is not a disease that a lot of people frequently encounter. You may be wondering if you and your pets may be at risk for this disease. Here are some facts about typhus and how to protect yourself and your pets.

The recent alarming increase of horse deaths at the Santa Anita racetrack in Los Angeles County (Arcadia, Calif.) has caused many people to ask me what might be happening.  Twenty-one horses have been euthanized due to catastrophic injuries they suffered during racing or training at Santa Anita since December 26, 2018. 

When people think of Southern California they often picture sunshine and palm trees.  However, recent weather has shown us that it can get cold and wet here, too. What does this mean for our beloved pets? What hazards and additional considerations do pet owners need to consider?

You may have heard about Assembly Bill no. 485 becoming law at the start of 2019. Here are my thoughts on the matter and general advice about obtaining a new pet.

It is summertime and the phones at the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) are busier than ever. Our communications center team report many of these calls are to complain about barking dogs. “Is this because it is warm, windows are open and more outdoor sounds are making their way into homes?” wonders one customer service employee. This may be part of the problem.