It’s a chilly evening in October and you’re hurrying down the sidewalk, eager to get into your car and head home. All at once, the streetlight nearest you abruptly goes out, a cold wind ruffles your jacket, and a small black cat trots across the sidewalk directly in front of you. Thanks to the centuries of myth and lore surrounding black cats, this scenario still might rattle you a bit (even if you aren’t superstitious).

The view of black cats as harbingers of bad luck probably has its origins in witchcraft lore. In Western history, black cats were considered the companions of witches, or to possess the ability to turn into witches themselves, and were often burned alongside those accused of being witches. In truth, many cultures have myths and beliefs about black cats bringing good luck rather than bad.

Let's face it: our clients are online.  15 years ago, when a pet owner had a medical question they’d go to their veterinarian first then go home and research what they heard. What do they do now? Most pet owners go online first THEN call the veterinarian if they think their problem is worth an office visit.  With the explosion of smart phones, I’ve had clients literally researching what I’m telling them WHILE I’m talking to them!  I didn’t find it threatening….as a licensed veterinarian, I should know what I’m talking about….but it was an indicator of a new reality.

It’s the middle of the night; you wake up to the sound of your pet vomiting. Your heart is pounding as you try to comfort your pet. Is it time to call the vet or is this just another hairball? Is your vet even open on nights, weekends or holidays? How urgent is the problem?

For many pet parents, a road trip isn’t the same without the four-legged family members along. Some pets love riding in the car and traveling with them is a joy. Others find the experience stressful and can make the trip miserable.

Today, we have advanced pet care diagnostics and treatment options. Combined with rising healthcare costs in the human and veterinary world, it is harder and harder for those without insurance to pay for pet care. While most pet owners can afford to bring their pets in for wellness examinations and vaccinations, many struggle when it comes to emergency surgery or treating an extensive illness.