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Author: Melissa Smith

Melissa Smith, discussions manager for Petful, has been researching and writing about pet behaviors for several years. Her work has been recognized with Certificates of Excellence from both the Dog Writers Association of America and the Cat Writers’ Association. A longtime animal lover, Melissa is a professional pet sitter on Cape Cod through her company, Fresh Start Services.
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5 Things to Know About British Shorthairs

By Melissa SmithJul 23, 2017May 30, 2020

British Shorthairs are often referred to as “teddy bears” thanks to their round face and dense, furry coat.

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Service Dogs, Therapy Dogs, ESAs — What’s the Difference, Anyway?

By Melissa SmithJun 13, 2017June 3, 2020

Currently, only dogs — and occasionally miniature horses — may lawfully receive the designation of service animal.

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Thinking About Flying With Your Pet? Read This First.

By Melissa SmithJun 8, 2017August 17, 2019

Before you fly, research your airline’s track record of keeping pets safe at 35,000 feet.

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Dog Training — There’s an App for That

By Melissa SmithMay 25, 2017January 2, 2020

Smartphone apps can help you train your dog consistently wherever you go together.

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The Benefits of Doing Yoga With Your Dog

By Melissa SmithMay 23, 2017May 15, 2020

“Doga” is a great way to combine your love for your dog and your love for yoga.

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Dogs Who Are Addicted to Television? Apparently, They Exist.

By Melissa SmithMay 11, 2017May 19, 2020

A dog looking at a TV screen is not an uncommon sight, but when the behavior becomes obsessive, it’s time to call the vet.

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Why Rats Are Truly Underrated Pets

By Melissa SmithMay 9, 2017September 17, 2019

As pets, these animals are intelligent, social and friendly.

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Keeping a Lobster as a Pet: What You Should Know

By Melissa SmithMay 8, 2017October 21, 2018

A lobster as a pet? Yeah, it’s a thing.

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Bringing Home Hermit Crabs? Don’t Do What I Did.

By Melissa SmithApr 6, 2017January 13, 2020

These cute critters need a warm, humid environment in which to thrive.

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Even After Retirement, Military and Police Dogs Are Heroes

By Melissa SmithApr 3, 2017May 31, 2020

Why retired military dogs need our support.

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Why Sloths Probably Aren’t the Best Pets to Keep

By Melissa SmithMar 30, 2017March 29, 2017

Sloths have unique dietary needs and require a specialized climate to stay happy and survive.

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Evanger’s Recalls 2017: How Did a Euthanasia Drug Get Into Dog Food?

By Melissa SmithMar 3, 2017May 23, 2020

Pentobarbital in pet food? How does that even happen? Here’s our 3-part report on the deadly Evanger’s recalls of 2017 — and the fallout.

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Want to Become a Pet Sitter? Here’s What You Should Know.

By Melissa SmithFeb 21, 2017August 16, 2019

When you become a pet sitter, it takes grit and stamina to interact not only with the pets, but also with their humans. Here’s my advice for the beginning pet sitter.

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Gila Monster Care Guide

By Melissa SmithFeb 16, 2017January 23, 2020

These venomous lizards need large enclosures with plenty of elbow room. Read this expert Pet Gila Monster Care Guide from Petful.

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Guinea Pigs and Teeth: What You Need to Know

By Melissa SmithFeb 2, 2017January 31, 2017

Your guinea pig needs your sharp eyes and overall awareness to tell whether he’s having painful dental issues.

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