Tender Paws

Stress

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on March 15, 2023

The link between a dog’s body and mind—the intricate interplay between medical conditions, behavior, and emotions—draws researchers' and clinicians’ attention.

Parenting

Can You Identify Your Dog Trainer’s Parenting Style?

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on January 31, 2023

When looking for a dog behavior professional, consider their parenting style.

Parenting

The 4 Types of Dog Parents

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on January 30, 2023

How we treat our four-legged family members has a lot in common with parenting.

Body Language

Can Pet Dogs Experience Freedom?

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on September 30, 2022

Dog owners can benefit their animals by striving to meet the list of Five Freedoms.

Autism

Seeking Comfort From Dogs

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on September 24, 2022

What draws us to dogs? Maybe they offer something we aren't getting from other people.

Stress

3 Freedoms We Can Give Our Dogs

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on September 22, 2022

New books show ways we can make our dog's life happier.

Caregiving

How Pet Owners Cross the Line to Become Animal Hoarders

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on June 29, 2022

Some pet owners refuse to admit that animals in their care are suffering. What has gone wrong? And what can be done to help?

Grief

Why It’s So Hard to Let Go of a Beloved Pet

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on May 31, 2022

Making life-or-death decisions about a beloved dog can rock our world.

Domestic Violence

How Animals Help Family Court Judges Make Better Decisions

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on April 29, 2022

Family court judges have discovered a new way to better serve families: asking about their pets.

Trauma

3 Simple Choices That Can Help Your New Rescue Dog

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on March 28, 2022

The early weeks after adopting a shelter rescue are important. Make your dog's transition easier with these strategies.

Child Development

Does Your Problem Pup Need a Do-Over?

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on January 30, 2022

Adopting a rescue can be full of surprises, especially for first-time puppy parents.

Child Development

The Magic of Make-Believe for Our Dogs

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on January 10, 2022

Is your dog a bundle of energy or nerves? One expert suggests the solution may be as simple as offering a make-believe playmate.

Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence Affects Pets, Too

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on December 22, 2021

Domestic violence and animal abuse often go hand in hand. Fortunately, assistance is available.

Parenting

Is Your Dog Misbehaving—or Just Misunderstood?

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on November 2, 2021

Upset over your pet dog's poor behavior? Explanations and solutions may be simpler than you imagine.

Health

Are We Offering Our Dogs Treats—or Toxics?

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on October 18, 2021

Is your dog's toy a treat or a trick? Dog owners need to be alert to hidden hazards facing pets.

Personality

6 Ways to Test Your Dog's Personality

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on September 7, 2021

Is your dog an unflappable diplomat who always behaves politely? Or an an unstoppable free spirit who lives life on their own terms?

Attachment

What Our Dogs Can Tell Us About Ourselves

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on July 19, 2021

Is your dog like family? You're not alone. Researchers are digging deeper into the human-dog relationship, finding parallels to the parent-child relationship.

Fear

What Dog Trainers Can Teach Us About Coping

Wendy Lyons Sunshine, MA on July 5, 2021

Struggling to cope? Here are some useful tips from positive dog training methods.