The Function of Play Bows in Dog and Wolf Puppies

New research casts doubt on an old explanation for the play bow – and suggests it’s all about more play. The play bow is a glorio…

Playtime After Training Improves a Dog's Memory

Making time for play immediately after a dog training session improves the dog’s memory. New research by Nadja Affenzeller (Univ…

If You Lead a Lab to Water, Should You Let Them Swim?

A new study tests whether Labrador Retrievers choose the pool. Labrador Retrievers were bred to retrieve from water, and it’s wid…

Summer Reading: The Play Edition

Our summer reading list is all about play. Why do animals play? In Dog Sense , John Bradshaw writes “In wild animals, play must p…

Six Ways to Entertain Your Dog Indoors

Easy ways to tire out your dog when walks are limited. Lately my dogs have been getting fewer walks due to unusually hot weathe…

Why are my cats fighting? Part 1: Three reasons your cats might not get along

There are two major reasons people seek help with their cats' behavior. The first is inappropriate elimination . The second …

CAT BEHAVIOR MAIL BAG: Rockstar Feline "Vincent"

Dear SF/SPCA Cat Behavior Program, We adopted "Taurus" about a year ago from your facility. He has been renamed "V…

Aloha For Me... Alone Time for Her

By Daniel Quagliozzi All of us deserve a vacation once and a while. Just some time to get away and go somewhere else, without a c…