Author: animalark

School is out! Summer is coming! Summertime is the perfect opportunity to spend time bonding with children and pets in the home. Here are a few guidelines to keep both your children and dog(s) safe this summer.   Set Them Up for Success NEVER your children unattended with the dog, especially if your child has […]

What Is Separation Anxiety? Separation anxiety in dogs is a common behavior problem. Dogs are highly social animals who are happiest spending time with their loved ones. For some dogs, being left alone results in distress and undesirable behaviors. Behavioral symptoms of separation anxiety include destructive behaviors like chewing, scratching or inappropriate elimination. Other dogs […]

As of last year Columbus, GA achieved an amazing feat by gaining status as a “No-Kill” community. What is a No-Kill Community? Any community (all shelter combined within the county) with a live release rate of 90% or higher.” In just 7 years, our city’s euthanasia rate has dropped from a whopping 80% (euthanized) rate […]

  Adopting a Puppy? Don’t Miss Your Milestones!   Once you adopt, you are on the clock. Below is a timeline of crucial milestones for ensuring proper development and socialization of your new pup. Following these guidelines can save you from the stress of  behavior issues and help you to shape a well rounded adult […]

Kitten Foster Care Basics   If you have the time, space, and supplies, then you’re ready to learn how to take care of your first litter! Here’s a quick and easy breakdown of the basics of kitten care: Kittens 0-3 weeks Get them warm and cozy. Kittens cannot regulate their body temperature, so they’re prone […]

Kitten Season- Part 1 Spring is just around the corner. The flowers are blooming, the birds are chirping, and Animal Ark Rescue is preparing for kitten season!   Every year from March to October Columbus Animal Care and Control is flooded with neonatal kittens who are fated for euthanasia if they cannot be placed in […]

Though diapers are available for puppies, these are not a long-term solution. Hence, once you get your puppy home, you must start potty training. Remember this is not going to be easy and you might even regret having a new puppy around. However, things will get better with time (and loads of patience). In essence, […]

“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” -George Bernard Shaw A teacher once said to me, “Miscommunication is the main source of conflict.” I didn’t fully understand that statement until I began working in animal rescue. Why do we see animals return to the shelter? The reasons vary, […]

What Do We Know? The Greek philosopher, Socrates said it best, “The only thing I know, is that I know nothing.” Dog psychology is an expanding field that is still in its infancy. When it comes to the animals in our care, what they think and how they feel is still a best guess. From […]