​My name is Justine Biondi. I grew up in New Jersey, but I have been living in Los Angeles for over eight years now! I’m a real estate agent serving all of Los Angeles. I also love writing, and published a poetry book last December called Seasons of a Beating Heart. Recently, I have been looking for meaningful organizations to volunteer with, and I am so happy I found Paws/LA.

I heard about Paws/LA through a simple google search. I love helping both animals and elderly people, so this organization popped up right away in my search. Paws/LA is such a kindhearted organization with a meaningful cause. Everyone deserves to stay with their fluffy family members for as long as possible, so it is an honor to help facilitate that bond between older people and their pets. 

My first experience delivering food was seamless! I called the client, Lora, who answered right away and let me know when was a good time to deliver her cat’s food. She is an extremely sweet person who was very grateful as well. I was happy to help her!
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The human-animal bond is important on so many levels. I actually wrote a blog post recently called “The Magical and Emotional Bond Between Humans and their Animals.” Our animals are our family, through and through. They provide us with deep and meaningful companionship rooted in unconditional love. I know from experience that life becomes much brighter when you have a fluffy animal to share it with. They remain by our side through all of the highs and all of the lows, and they remind us that we are not alone. Sometimes even the people in our lives can’t do that. To be able to help elderly people continue to care for their beloved animals is an honor and a joy. ​

Your Animal’s Diet Matters!
 
As one of the fundamental conditions needed to sustain life, nutrition drives every aspect of our biological functioning, either fortifying or weakening body and mind. A good diet will fend off illness and disease, ensure that we have enough energy to live a productive life, and toughen our bodies against injury. A poor diet leaves us vulnerable to every kind of physical harm, and can exacerbate, or even cause, mental health disorders, leading to increased levels of depression and anxiety. In other words, food matters. A lot. As humans we have access to a wealth of information on good nutrition, as well as a market saturated with healthy food offerings. Our understanding continues to grow steadily, with new diets and nutritional strategies entering our cultural consciousness on what feels like a daily basis.

​What we sometimes overlook, however, is that proper nutrition is just as important for our pets. Without realizing it, we might subscribe to the idea that our pets will function just as well no matter what they eat—that as long as they’re fed, and protected from allergens and poisons, they’ll be healthy. This simply isn’t true. Animals are complex organisms just as we are. Their age, sex, genetic makeup and evolutionary habits dictate the specific combination of nutrients that are optimal for their health. A pet might be exceptionally well-fed, and cared for in every aspect, and yet be lacking vital sources of nutrition, simply because the owner doesn’t know what they should be providing.

Luckily, we’re increasingly recalibrating our knowledge of human nutrition to meet the specific needs of our pets, acknowledging that every organism has different requirements, and that what works for us might not work for our furry friends. Gone are the days when pets were expected to eat whatever surplus scraps their owners had left after a meal. Now, pet parents are eager to feed their beloved animals well, and to give to significant consideration to their nutritional intake. For this reason, pet health food is a growing market with both big brands and smaller companies diversifying their offerings to appeal to a variety of species, ages and body types. Of course, dogs and cats remain the most catered to demographics in the pet food market, which gives us even more reason to understand their diet; when faced with an abundance of options, we need at least a minimum amount of knowledge to ensure that we make the right choice.

Throughout a continuing series of posts, we’ll be digging into all the available information, and exploring various aspect of your pet’s dietary needs. In this article specifically, we consider the unique nutritional requirements of cats, and cover some of the ways in which you can ensure your favorite feline stays fit and happy. Many of the following tips, however, could apply to any animal you care for. Look out for more posts about pet nutrition, including information specific to our canine companions.

​Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their bodies are designed to thrive on a diet primarily consisting of animal-based proteins. Cats cannot be vegetarian, and need fatty acids, vitamins and minerals found only in natural tissue. Their nutritional requirements differ significantly from humans and even other pets. Consult your veterinarian to understand the specific dietary needs of your cat based on its breed, age, weight, and any medical conditions they might have. Remember, one of the most dominant myths in the pet care world is that cats love cow's milk. Neither kittens nor adult cats require significant amounts of milk or cream. These dairy products have no useful place within a cat’s nutritional system and often cause digestion problems.

​Protein is the foundation of your cat's diet. Look for cat foods with meat or fish listed as the primary ingredient. These proteins provide essential amino acids that support muscle maintenance, organ function, and overall energy levels. Unlike humans, who enjoy variety in what they eat, pets in general can find it difficult digesting foods they aren’t accustomed to. Sticking with a single kind of protein can help avoid gastrointestinal problems.

​A balanced diet includes not only protein but also fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Too much or too little of any nutrient can lead to health issues. Consult with your vet to determine the optimal nutrient ratio for your cat's age and activity level. These days, you may come across “prescription foods”, dishes that are specifically tailored to help treat a specific condition. While, these foods can only be purchased through a veterinarian, they rarely contain any actual medicine and are not prescriptions in the usual sense of the word. There is some debate over prescription pet food, as it is often considerably more expensive than normal pet food, and its overall benefits have been contested by a number of studies. Make sure you’re working with a veterinarian you trust, and always check the label before you shell out cash for a product that may well be no better than what you usually buy from your local pet store.

​Cats often have a low thirst drive, which can lead to dehydration, especially if they're on a dry kibble diet. Always provide fresh water and consider incorporating wet cat food into their diet. The moisture content helps maintain their hydration levels. This becomes especially important when you live in a hot climate, or during unexpected heat waves. It also pays to learn the signs of dehydration in your cat, so that you can catch the problem early on and hydrate accordingly.

​Obesity is a growing concern among cats, leading to various health problems like diabetes and joint issues. Follow feeding guidelines on the cat food packaging and adjust portions based on your cat's activity level and weight. Regularly monitor their weight and consult the vet if necessary. Generally, an adult domestic cat eats little and often, anywhere from 12 – 24 small meals over the course of a 24-hour period, which they spread relatively evenly across both daylight and night time hours. If your cat is free to roam and visit other houses, consider politely asking you neighbors to refrain from giving out treats.

​Some human foods are toxic to cats and should be strictly avoided. These include chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, alcohol, and artificial sweeteners. Make sure to keep these substances out of your cat's reach. A less obvious danger can come from the kinds of trendy “raw diets” that have popped up over the past few years. As with prescription food, there is some debate over the safety and effectiveness of such diets, but whatever your final opinion, you should be careful any time you provide raw meat, as the risk for bacterial infection is considerably higher. Make sure any raw products you provide for your pet have been safely stored in a freezer.

​Kittens, adult cats, and senior cats have different nutritional requirements. Kittens need more calories and nutrients to support their growth, while senior cats might need diets that support joint health and manage age-related issues. Again, this is a case of doing a little research and consulting your vet. Remember, nobody knows your cat like you.

​While treats can be a way to bond with your cat, excessive treats can lead to nutritional imbalances. Choose high-quality cat treats and use them sparingly, preferably as rewards for training or special occasions. Try to resist feeding your pet from your dinner plate. It is difficult to resist pleading kitty-cat eyes, but encouraging random feeding can have a detrimental effect on your portion control strategy.

​Some cats may develop food allergies or sensitivities over time. If you notice signs like gastrointestinal upset, skin problems, or excessive scratching, consult your vet to explore potential allergies and adjust their diet accordingly. 

​If you're switching your cat's diet, do it gradually to avoid digestive upset. Mix the new food with the old one over several days until your cat is fully accustomed to the change.

​Caring for your cat's diet is a cornerstone of responsible pet ownership. Each cat has unique needs, and so careful research, observation and the professional expertise of your veterinarian should be your primary tools. Don’t assume your cat is like every other. Be attentive to how they react to certain foods, and make sure that they’re getting the right amount of each specific nutrient--protein, carbs, fats, and vitamins. Consider keeping a notebook or planner in which to track the foods you provide, and record any observations you make about your cat's responses to various dishes. Remember to share your nutritional strategy with your cat's other caretakers, so that they can maintain the consistency of your approach. ​A good diet will not completely protect your beloved pet from sickness and injury, but by making an effort, you ensure you have done everything possible to give your cat the life it deserves.

At PAWS/LA it’s our mission to help support our clients with the financial and organizational challenges of pet ownership. Those we work with share an indelible bond with their pets and are committed to offering them the best possible life. The worst possible case is that somebody with this level of dedication and commitment would be forced to part with their companion animal due to difficulties that are beyond their control. We make sure these pet owners can meet their own high standards of pet ownership.

​But it’s not always easy—even if you don’t face financial hardship or physical limitations.
 
Responsible pet ownership goes beyond providing food, shelter, and veterinary care; it encompasses a commitment to their well-being, behavior training, and environmental impact. In this blog post, we will delve into the core principles of responsible pet ownership, offering valuable insights and practical tips to help you become the kind of pet parent we see our clients, volunteers and other members of the PAWS/LA family try to be.

​The foundation of responsible pet ownership lies in meeting your pet's basic needs. These include proper nutrition, access to clean water, a safe and comfortable living environment, and regular veterinary care. Ensure you provide a balanced and appropriate diet based on your pet's species, age, and health requirements. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive treatments will keep your pet healthy and protect them from diseases.
 
Create a safe and secure environment for your pet by pet-proofing your home, removing hazards, and providing appropriate containment if necessary. Provide a cozy bed, toys for mental stimulation, and a designated area for them to retreat to when they need space. Regular grooming and hygiene practices, such as bathing and nail trimming, are essential to maintain your pet's well-being.

​Responsible pet ownership involves investing time and effort in behavioral training. Proper training not only enhances your pet's quality of life but also promotes a harmonious relationship between you and your furry friend. Start with basic obedience training, including commands like sit, stay, and come. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, work wonders in encouraging desired behavior.
 
Socialization is vital for pets to develop good manners and interact well with other animals and people. Gradually introduce your pet to new experiences, environments, and individuals, ensuring positive interactions throughout the process. Training should also address common behavioral issues like excessive barking, chewing, or aggression. Seek professional help if needed, as behavior problems can often be addressed effectively with guidance from a qualified trainer or behaviorist.

​Pets require regular exercise and mental stimulation to lead healthy and happy lives. Dogs, for instance, need daily walks, playtime, and opportunities for socializing with other dogs. Cats, on the other hand, benefit from interactive toys, scratching posts, and vertical spaces for climbing. Enrichment activities like puzzle toys, food-dispensing toys, and training sessions engage your pet's mind and prevent boredom.
 
Consider your pet's specific needs and energy levels when designing an exercise routine. Engaging in activities together not only strengthens the bond between you and your pet but also promotes their overall well-being. Remember, a tired pet is often a well-behaved pet!

​Responsible pet ownership extends beyond the confines of your home. Consider the environmental impact of your pet and take steps to minimize it. Dispose of pet waste properly, preferably in designated areas or with biodegradable bags. Clean up after your pet during walks to ensure cleanliness and prevent the spread of diseases.
 
Choose eco-friendly pet products, including biodegradable poop bags, natural grooming supplies, and sustainable pet toys. Opt for eco-conscious pet food brands that use sustainable sourcing practices and packaging.

​Being a responsible pet owner entails more than just providing the essentials; it requires dedication, patience, and a genuine love for your pet. By meeting their basic needs, investing in training, providing stimulation, and considering the environmental impact, you can ensure your pet leads a happy and healthy life. Responsible pet ownership not only benefits your furry companion but also fosters a more compassionate and sustainable society. So, embrace the responsibilities of pet ownership and cherish the incredible bond you share with your beloved pet.

This is a companion piece to our Pet of the Week segment, where we profile a pet and their owner from our community. Usually, we get a little time with the pairing, and as much information as we can gather from a brief interview. This time, however, I was able to spend time with a dog who is very much part of my family, and this encouraged me to pause and think a little more carefully about why keeping pets and people together is important—not because it’s the mission statement of PAWS/LA, and our funding depends on it, but because there’s something in the relationship between human and animals that speaks to our better natures, our best selves.

The dog in this case, is named Clementine, a tiny pug-mutt bundle belonging to my brother, Ross, and his wife, Brooke. Clemmie was rescued during the pandemic and needed a lot of healing. Whatever had happened to her before she was adopted wasn’t pleasant. Physically, she was fine, but psychologically, she presented as frightened and skittish. There were clear signs that she’d suffered abuse of some kind, and her relationship with humans was clearly rooted in fear. Every noise would set her off barking, and she found it difficult to be left alone for even an hour. In fits of fear, she would behave maniacally, ripping apart shoes and eating furniture. She was hostile to other dogs, which was dangerous given her diminutive size, and the likelihood of her coming out poorly in a fight with a larger animal.

None of this was helped by the fact that my brother lives in a noisy neighborhood, where it isn’t unusual for fireworks to fire off randomly throughout the day and night. These sounds would send Clemmie darting beneath a chair where she would crouch for hours, shivering. When she saw humans interacting with each other, she would become fiercely defensive, mistaking affection for aggression; she was always trying to “save” us from hugs and embraces.

 It was difficult, but I know that Ross and Brooke loved her from the start. They stepped up as every pet parent should, even when Clemmie often required more care and attention than a newborn baby. She was a significant presence that changed the way they lived. But instead of growing frustrated and abandoning her, they worked hard to help her process and adapt to her new life. In turn, her healing facilitated their growth.  Of course, Clem’s personality remains skittish, and she still likes to pick fights with other dogs she meets on the street, but generally she is calmer, more at ease, and now capable of spending an hour alone in an apartment.

The bond she has with her owners is starkly evident. Last weekend, Ross and Brooke went out of town, and we took Clemmie to the desert to watch her while they were gone. For the first day or two, she appeared despondent and lethargic, lying around for hours, moving only to eat. Sometimes it’s easy to forget that dogs miss their owners as much as owners miss their dogs, and there is far more nuance to the relationship than an animal simply needing fed and sheltered. Watching Clemmie’s change in behavior, provided significant testament to the power of this bond. Even my brother, who is usually stoic to a fault, had to walk away quickly once he’d dropped her off, so that he wouldn’t start to cry.

After a day or so, Clemmie grew accustomed to her new environment, although it was interesting to see her connection to my brother and sister-in-law continue to play out indirectly. She was more drawn to my father and myself than to my mother, because as males in the family, we bear a closer resemblance to Ross. Certain smells also clearly reminded her of home, and she made her base of operation the spare bedroom that Ross and Brooke usually stay in when they visit, as if some comforting essence of them lingered there.

Besides all this, the human-animal bond finds maybe its fiercest expression in the way animals interact with children, in this case my son. Kids and animals love without reason, without thinking about it; they love simply because love is their nature, undisturbed by the hardening experiences of adult life. Watching them together was watching something pure, even when they tormented each other; even when Clemmie jumped up and accidentally scratched Isaac; when he splashed her with water, or she knocked him off a wall. Any slight or inconvenience was forgotten a second later, when they were lying together, and he was rubbing her belly.

​I do not know what makes our bond with Clemmie any different from that shared between millions of owners and animals throughout LA and beyond. Really, it is something beyond expression, something that defies description. At the end of the day, it hardly matters. Just because something can’t be described, doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. The bond is real, and we see it everywhere. This is why we can’t allow hardship to separate animals from their owners. It is precisely at times of hardship that the bond is most powerful, and in the crucible of existence, with all its raw suffering and joy, animals and humans work in a way that ensures the growth of one becomes the growth of the other. It is not a linear, causal system, but a dynamic relationship of give and take, a dialectic of love and respect. At least, it should be.

Summer is here! We think. Maybe. It’s supposed to be, but who knows with the weather these days? Anyway, once the June gloom lifts, we’ll see sunshine, warmth, and plenty of  outdoor activity. As pet owners, it's essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of our beloved companions during this time. The scorching heat can pose various risks to pets, such as dehydration, heatstroke, and burns. In this blog post, we will explore some crucial tips and guidelines to ensure the safety of your pets in the summer months.

Just like humans, pets need to stay properly hydrated to beat the summer heat. Ensure that your pets always have access to fresh, clean water. Consider placing multiple water bowls in different areas of your home and yard to encourage them to drink regularly. If you're heading out for a walk or a day trip, carry water and a portable bowl for your pet. This way, you can provide them with hydration whenever needed.

Pavements and asphalt can become scorching hot during the summer, causing severe burns to your pet's paws. Before taking your dog for a walk, test the ground with the back of your hand. If it feels too hot for you, it's too hot for your furry companion. Opt for walks during cooler times of the day, such as early morning or late evening, when the pavement is less likely to be scalding. Alternatively, consider investing in protective booties for your dog's paws. 

​Creating a cool and comfortable environment for your pet is crucial during the summer. Ensure that your pets have access to shaded areas in your yard, whether it's under a tree or with the help of a sunshade or umbrella. If your pet spends most of their time indoors, keep the curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day to prevent excess heat from entering your home. Use fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature indoors. Never, leave your pet in a parked car, even with the windows cracked, as the temperature can rise to dangerous levels within minutes.

While regular exercise is essential for your pet's well-being, it's crucial to be mindful of the intensity and duration of activities during hot summer days. Avoid rigorous exercise during peak hours and opt for shorter, more frequent walks instead. Consider taking your pet for a swim as a fun and refreshing way to keep them active without overheating. Remember to rinse off chlorine or saltwater after swimming, as it can irritate their skin.

Heatstroke is a severe condition that requires immediate attention. Be vigilant for symptoms such as excessive panting, lethargy, drooling, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these signs, move your pet to a cool area immediately, apply cool (not cold) water to their body, and contact your veterinarian right away.

​As pet owners, it's our responsibility to keep our furry friends safe and comfortable during the summer months. By following these essential tips, you can ensure that your pets enjoy the season while avoiding the risks associated with excessive heat. Remember to prioritize hydration, provide shade and ventilation, avoid hot surfaces, exercise with caution, and be aware of the signs of heatstroke. With these precautions in place, you and your pets can have a joyful and worry-free summer together.