Pet Care Resource Center

Puppies

• Socializing Your Puppy
• Crate Training Your Puppy
• Potty Training Your Puppy

Adult Dogs

• Helping reactive dogs live their best life
• The Power of Food
• Preventing Leash Pulling
• Preventing Rude Behavior in Your Dog

We’ve partnered with Barking Hound Village to provide training resources for pet owners who need assistance. Click here to learn more.

We are still building out this section. Please check back for updates!

Remedy: Your Community Vet exists to provide accessible, affordable veterinary care to our community. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit the Remedy website.

Why are vaccines important for my pet?
Vaccines protect pets from a variety of serious diseases and infections. They help boost your pet’s immune system and can prevent outbreaks of diseases such as rabies, distemper, and parvovirus in dogs, and feline leukemia and upper respiratory infections in cats. Regular vaccinations are crucial not only for keeping your pet healthy, but also our community’s pets.

What are the different types of vaccines and why does my pet need them?

• Rabies: Prevents rabies, a deadly viral disease affecting the brain and spinal cord. This vaccine is often required by law and protects both pets and people.
• DHPP: Protects against distemper and parvovirus, a severe virus causing respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological issues. Crucial for protecting puppies and adult dogs from a potentially deadly disease.
• FVRCP: Protects against feline viral rhinotracheitis (herpesvirus), calicivirus, and panleukopenia (feline parvovirus). This combination vaccine helps prevent upper respiratory infections and severe gastrointestinal issues in cats, which are crucial for keeping both kittens and adult cats healthy.
• Bordetella: Prevents kennel cough, a contagious respiratory infection. Vital for dogs exposed to other dogs, such as in boarding facilities or dog parks.
• Leptospirosis: Protects against leptospirosis, a bacterial infection affecting the liver and kidneys and is most often found in standing water. This vaccine is typically recommended for dogs who go hiking or hunting often.
• Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): Prevents FeLV, a virus impacting cats’ immune systems. Essential for cats with outdoor access or contact with other cats.

How often does my pet need vaccinations?
The frequency of vaccinations depends on your pet’s age and health. Puppies and kittens typically start their vaccination series early in life and require booster shots as they grow. Adult pets usually need annual boosters. Your veterinarian can provide a personalized vaccination schedule based on your pet’s needs.

What should I do if I notice changes in my pet’s health?
If you observe any changes in your pet’s behavior, eating habits, or physical condition, contact your veterinarian promptly. Early intervention can be crucial in addressing potential health issues and ensuring your pet receives the appropriate care.

How often should I feed my pet?
Feeding schedules can vary based on your pet’s age, size, and health. Most adult pets do well with two meals a day, while puppies and kittens may need more frequent feedings.

What type of food should I feed my pet?
Choosing the right food for your pet involves understanding the differences between wet and dry food, as well as considering their species-specific needs. Wet food can be more appealing and hydrating, making it a good choice for pets who need extra moisture in their diet. Dry food is convenient, helps with dental health, and can be more economical.

For dogs and cats, their nutritional needs vary: dogs often do well with a mix of both wet and dry food, while cats generally benefit from a diet higher in moisture.

At the shelter, we use Purina pet food and provide all adopters with a small bag to help transition their new pet to their new home. If you need to switch from one type or brand of food to another, do so gradually over a week to avoid upsetting your pet’s stomach. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with their current food, gradually increasing the proportion of the new food.

How do I determine the right portion size for my pet?
Portion sizes can vary widely based on your pet’s weight, age, and activity level. They can also vary depending on the brand and type of pet food you have chosen to feed. Refer to the feeding guidelines on your pet food packaging and adjust as necessary.

What should I do if my pet refuses to eat?
If your pet suddenly stops eating, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Try offering a different type of food or warming it slightly to make it more appealing. If the problem persists, consult your veterinarian to rule out any medical concerns.

Regular grooming is essential for maintaining your pet’s health and well-being. It not only keeps your pet looking their best but also helps prevent and detect health issues early. Here’s a quick guide to essential grooming practices:

• Brushing: Regular brushing helps remove loose fur, dirt, and debris, and prevents matting. It also stimulates natural oils in your pet’s coat, promoting a healthy shine. The frequency and type of brush needed depend on your pet’s coat length and type.
• Bathing: Bathing keeps your pet clean and helps manage skin conditions. Use a pet-specific shampoo (or baby shampoo!) and avoid overbathing, as it can strip natural oils from the skin. The frequency of baths varies depending on your pet’s breed, coat type, and lifestyle.
• Nail Trimming: Keeping your pet’s nails trimmed prevents discomfort and health issues such as ingrown nails. Regular trimming is important to avoid overgrowth and to maintain your pet’s comfort while walking.
• Dental Care: Brushing your pet’s teeth helps prevent dental disease and bad breath. Dental chews and regular veterinary cleanings can also contribute to good oral health.

If you are concerned that your animal may have ingested something toxic, contact Animal Poison Control ASAP. You can call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Hotline at 1-888-426-4435. They are available 24/7 for advice and guidance.

If your pet is experiencing an acute emergency outside of your veterinarian’s business hours, take them to the closest 24-hour or emergency clinic.

Emergency Clinics with Multiple Locations:

VCA Animal Hospitals

BluePearl Pet Hospital

Veterinary Emergency Group

Single Location Clinics:

Dogwood Veterinary Specialty and Emergency
Address: 1234 Powers Ferry Common SE, Marietta, GA 30067
Phone: 404.609.1234

Animal Emergency Center of Sandy Springs
Address: 228 Sandy Springs Pl NE, Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Phone: 404.252.7881

Seasonal Safety

• Summer Safety Tips
• Fourth of July
• Avoiding Pancreatitis during the Holidays

Traveling

• General travel tips when driving or flying

We are still building out this section. Please check back for updates!

We understand that financial difficulties can make it challenging to care for your pet. Our Community Outreach program supplies pet food to a variety of organizations around Atlanta, ensuring you have access to free or low-cost options.

Click here to see the full list of organizations offering pet food support.

My Pitbull Is Family   |   Website

My Pit Bull is Family manages the nation’s largest database of dog inclusive rentals, along with a Community Partner database- through these two programs they are able to provide services to families in need and keep pets in their homes.

Pet Relocation.com   |   Website

PetRelocation guides pets and their people through the often-complicated processes of moving- both domestically and internationally. From navigating regulations and paperwork, to facilitating travel logistics, we are a full-service pet travel agency, here to assist you and your pets.

If you’re losing your home due to eviction, please know that you’re not alone. The Atlanta Humane Society is here to support you with services and advice for taking the best possible care of your pet during this uncertain time of transition. We’ve compiled these resources for you to help you and your pet.

Pets in Crisis Support Program   |   Website

Our Pets in Crisis Support Program works with established organizations to help pet parents who are facing eviction, domestic violence, or hospitalization and need help with temporary housing for their pets. This program utilizes foster parents vetted through Atlanta Humane to care for these animals for up to 90 days.

Paws Between Homes   |   Website

Paws Between Homes provides temporary foster homes to the pets of Atlanta residents who are being evicted or otherwise losing their housing.

Ahimsa House   |   Website

Ahimsa House provides temporary foster homes to the pets of Georgians who are experiencing domestic violence.

We understand that life is full of situations beyond our control, and facing the decision to rehome your pet is difficult. Atlanta Humane is here for you whether you are looking for resources to help you keep your pet at home or are having to surrender your pet. Learn more.

Red Rover Relief   |   Website

$200 grants intended to cover small gaps in funding that keep an animal from care.

BowWow Buddies Foundation   |   Website

Up to $2,500 grants available for necessary medical treatments and emergency services.

Frankie’s Friends   |   Website

Frankie’s Friends has a few different programs, often centered around lifesaving care.

Lifeline Vet Clinic   |   Website

If your pet has an unexpected illness or injury and you are unable to pay full-price for veterinary care, the Stay Together Fund may be able to help.