Archives by: Dr. Anna M. van Heeckeren
Dr. Anna M. van Heeckeren
63 Posts
About the author
Dr. Anna M. van Heeckeren is a veterinarian with a bachelor's degree in biology from the University of Michigan and two degrees from The Ohio State University; a master's (MS) in molecular genetics and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree. She is Founder, President & CEO of 501(c)(3) nonprofit One Health Organization (onehealth.org), working to increase access to veterinary care for people living with dogs and cats in Northeast Ohio. She publishes blogs about caring for dogs and cats, addressing related challenges that can arise. To contact Dr. Anna, email her at
[email protected].
Dr. Anna M. van Heeckeren Posts
If you plan on traveling with a pet in the U.S. or internationally, you’ll need to do some careful planning to ensure the experience is pleasant for all involved. Even if you think it’s a great idea to bring one or more of your pets, consider all the What Ifs. Many pets find travel stressful, which can be bad for their health. So if it’s more for your preference rather than a need, it might be best to leave them behind. Otherwise, there are lots of details to know beforehand, as not all destinations welcome animal companions. ...
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The lives of animals and humans are so firmly intertwined that it’s little surprise to learn a new professional specialty is growing and expanding: veterinary social work. These social workers specialize in preserving and strengthening the bonds pet parents have with animals. They can also support veterinary staff who interact with pet parents and one another in their day‑to‑day work. ...
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Are you confused about the difference between an emotional support animal and a service animal? And what is a therapy animal? Do you know the laws regarding housing, travel and other access for animals? Let’s start by defining the terms. ...
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We want our best friends to live forever, but the sad reality is, they don’t. We can help extend our dogs' healthy lifespans with six practical guidelines. ...
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Being a pet parent is usually rewarding but can also be challenging, especially when financial resources are stretched thin. What types of pet resources are out there? And where can you turn to find pet care, get help paying vet bills or receive answers to questions about pet problems? ...
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Puppy love and kitty cuddles make life sweeter. But for some low-income pet parents, inflation, housing costs, and the rising cost of pet food and veterinary care make pet care difficult. You can help connect struggling pet parents with resources that will help them be able to live happy and healthy lives with their pets. Learn how to help keep pets out of shelters and stay in welcoming homes. ...
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You’ve seen the ads for fur-lined dog parkas and fancy booties. Is that really necessary?
What do dog owners need to know to keep their dogs safe and healthy during the cold months? ...
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How do you keep your cat healthy, happy, and purring with contentment? A healthy feline lives indoors, eats a nutritious diet, and gets regular exercise and mental stimulation through play with safe cat toys that channel their inner cat. ...
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