Katie Koschalk

Sacramento

Writer at Freelance

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Articles

Test-Driving Pet Ownership: How Pet Fostering Works-and Why It Matters

2 weeks ago | yahoo.com | Katie Koschalk

Key TakeawaysPet fostering provides a temporary, life-saving home for animals in need while offering people a flexible way to experience pet companionship. Fostering helps reduce shelter overcrowding, supports animal recovery, and offers emotional rewards for caregivers. Anyone with compassion and a bit of space can become a foster parent, regardless of prior experience or long-term availability. In 2024, an estimated 5.8 million dogs and cats entered animal shelters and rescues.
Cost of Emergency Vet Visits for Dogs & Cats

4 weeks ago | rover.com | Katie Koschalk

Not a substitute for professional veterinary help. Table of ContentsExample CostsExplanation of CostsBill BreakdownEmergency vs. Regular VetPet InsuranceTips for the FutureWhen To GoIf your pet has a sudden serious illness or injury, an emergency vet can offer quick treatment at any time of day or night. However, emergency vet visits can be expensive. The total cost will depend on your pet’s size and species, the severity of the issue, and whether they need overnight care.
How to Keep Your Pets Safe from the Bird Flu

Mar 11, 2025 | rover.com | Katie Koschalk

This article has been reviewed by a pet health professional. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is a viral infection that primarily affects wild birds and poultry. Despite the name, this virus can sometimes spread to humans and other animals, including our cats and dogs. The current strain (H5N1 2.3.4.4b) is highly contagious and has caused the deaths of over 166 million birds across the U.S. since 2022.
What Is Diabetes in Cats? What Are the Signs?

Feb 26, 2025 | be.chewy.com | Shelby Deering |Irith Bloom |Katie Koschalk

Diabetes mellitus in cats is a chronic condition where the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t effectively use it. Insulin is essential for regulating blood sugar (glucose) levels, and when it’s insufficient or ineffective, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels. Diabetes is a relatively common condition in cats, with estimates suggesting that between 1 in 100 and 1 in 500 cats will develop diabetes in their lifetime.
Learn About the Athletic and Friendly Silken Windhound

Feb 24, 2025 | thesprucepets.com | Katie Koschalk

The silken windhound is a medium-sized sighthound breed developed in the United States. True to its name, this breed has a medium-long silky coat that comes in various colors, including black, tan, brown, gray, red, silver, white, or a combination of colors. Bred as a smaller, more sociable version of the borzoi, this breed combines the grace of a coursing hound with the affectionate nature of a devoted family pet.
Silken Windhound: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

Feb 24, 2025 | yahoo.com | Katie Koschalk

cleolonglegsGenerate Key TakeawaysThe silken windhound is a medium-sized sighthound breed developed in the United States. True to its name, this breed has a medium-long silky coat that comes in various colors, including black, tan, brown, gray, red, silver, white, or a combination of colors. Bred as a smaller, more sociable version of the borzoi, this breed combines the grace of a coursing hound with the affectionate nature of a devoted family pet.
What Is Ringworm in Cats? What Are the Signs?

Feb 12, 2025 | be.chewy.com | Shelby Deering |Irith Bloom |Katie Koschalk

In most cats, ringworm will resolve on its own within nine months to a year. However, treatment is strongly recommended to eliminate discomfort and prevent the infection from spreading to other animals and humans. Treatment can last anywhere from “six weeks up to two or three months, depending on the severity of infection and response to treatment,” says Bethany Hsia, DVM, co-founder of CodaPet, a nationwide end-of-life pet care service.
What Causes Bad Breath in Dogs? And What Can I Do About It?

Feb 10, 2025 | be.chewy.com | Shelby Deering |Irith Bloom |Katie Koschalk

When your dog’s breath can’t be dismissed as the aftermath of a questionable backyard snack, it might point to a more serious issue. The most common causes of bad breath in dogs include: “The most common cause of bad breath in dogs is periodontal disease, which is caused by plaque and tartar building up on their teeth,” explains Ray Spragley, DVM, founder of Zen Dog Veterinary Care, in Tuckahoe, New York.
The Surprising Dangers of Feeding Oranges to Your Curious Cat

Feb 6, 2025 | thesprucepets.com | Katie Koschalk

Most cats hate the smell of citrus and are unlikely to nibble on your orange. However, as a pet parent, it’s still important to understand whether this fruit is safe for your kitty. After all, you never know when orange might be an ingredient in a food item or when a curious cat might decide to take a taste. So, can cats eat oranges? We spoke to three veterinarians to learn if cats can safely eat this sweet, tangy fruit. No, cats should not eat oranges.
What Are Antibiotics for Dogs? And Does My Dog Need an Antibiotic?

Jan 29, 2025 | be.chewy.com | Katie Koschalk

When your pup develops a bacterial infection, antibiotics for dogs can be a lifesaver. These medications work by eliminating harmful bacteria, helping your dog feel better and preventing the infection from worsening. We spoke to veterinarians to get all the details about these bacteria-fighting medications, including how they kill bacteria, the different types, when they’re needed, and how to use them safely. Antibiotics for dogs are medications designed to combat bacterial infections.