Routine Care · Kinship

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routine care

Want to ace everyday pet wellness? Get tips on vet checks, vaccine schedules, preventative care, DIY remedies, and more.

Dentist examining a dog's teeth.

Find out if your dog can rock some sick neon bands on their teeth like you did in middle school.

Vet looking at a corgi dog's teeth.

Real talk: Your pup’s dental health is a necessary expense.

A woman in a bright yellow-orange sweater holding a striped kitten in one hand and a credit card in the other while using her laptop in front of her

Worried about the cost of making your pet feel better? Help is on the way.

Ask a Vet

Pet health question that’s not an emergency? Our vet team will answer over email within 48 hours. So, go ahead, ask us about weird poop, bad breath, and everything in between.

Closeup portrait of fun corgi dog laying in the bed, looking at camera.

It probably indicates that something is awry.

dog leaning on laptop while man types

It will be super helpful if you ever need a pet-sitter, too.

Two men carrying their puppies outside in the park.

Balancing puppy socialization and safety is tricky.

Cheerful Brunette Having Fun With Her Dog Outside

Fatty acids rev up your dog’s energy, keep their coat shiny, help with inflammation from allergies and arthritis, and so much more.

Pomeranian puppy not eating it's kibble outside.

We asked two veterinarians for advice.

Small brown dog sitting outside listening to a noise.

There’s a reason that high-pitched noise can wake them out of a deep sleep.

Growth Charts

So, you have a new, tiny family member? Well, we’ll help you track their growth, keep an eye on their health, and even predict how not-so-tiny they’ll become. Just add their weight to start.

Start Charting
Woman holding her cat and speaking to her vet.

In the end, you know what’s best for your pet.

Woman sleeping in bed with her beagle dog.

You might be stealing all the covers.

Woman celebrating her yellow lab's birthday.

The math isn’t as cut and dry as you’d think.

a dog at the vet getting a check-up

“Sick as a dog” isn’t just a phrase.

Cute puppy drinking water from a collapsible bowl.

And why it’s so important to keep them hydrated.

Woman walking her dog in a park

And why you shouldn’t skip the longer routes.

Nutrition Calculator

If we could give our pets infinite treats, we would. But this tool will tell you the right amount to feed your friend.

Get Calculating
Woman giving her dog some medicine.

And what else you can give your dog for diarrhea.

happy woman with a dog

What happens to a dog’s brain when they get older—and how you can slow it down.

The new coffee table book Cone of Shame will be released on September 10, 2024.

Winnie Au's new photography book puts a positive spin on something that usually bums out dogs—and their parents.


A puppy getting a wound dressed at the vet

We compared the top insurers so you don’t have to.

Healing stone on Cavalier spaniel dog.

Your pet can benefit from your self-care practices, from CBD to acupuncture. (Yep, you read that right.)

Woman petting her senior Pomeranian dog.

Integrative veterinarian Dr. Lindsey Wendt’s recs for products that can help your pet sail into their golden years in good health.

Got a new pet? Here’s what to do.

Let’s be real. Welcoming home a new dog or cat is a very cute but very crazy time. Thankfully, we’re here to help with a nifty new pet parent to-do list.

Get Started
Young beautiful woman cuddling with little snow bengal kitten on the bed.

Overwhelmed by all the small print and jargon? We’ve got you.

Woman kissing her small Dalmatian puppy.

Not everything about caring for a puppy is cute—but unfortunately necessary.

cat and dog laying on bed together

It covers your pet so you can get that broken leg fixed — while keeping your wallet happy.

Man holding dog's paw outside.

Trust us: It’s worth it.

Man holding puppy outside in grass.

And how to keep them safe when they do.

woman draped in an orange blanket holds a black-and-white puppy

It’s like What to Expect When You’re Expecting, except add four little paws to run around your house to the title.

Woman feeding her large white dog at home.

Experts weigh in on whether eating once or twice is better for health and longevity.

Woman talking to her vet while holding her small dachshund dog.

And how to let them down easy.

Woman drinking orange juice with her dog nearby.

Good ol’ H2O should still be their top choice, but find out which alternatives are safe.

Woman playing outside with her dog.

Plus, an option if you live in a household with dogs and kitties.

Cute brown Pitbull dog eating kibble from a bowl.

Per this study, American dogs are overweight—but you have to consider these factors.

Woman holds her dog's paw.

And alternatives you can use instead.

Owner and their dog outside in the summer.

Those perfect little toe beans need all the help they can get.

Man embracing his old black dog outside.

The company is cancelling these plans due to “inflation in the cost of veterinary care.”

A dog getting its head checked for ticks

Found a tick on your dog? A veterinarian breaks down everything you need to know. 

Woman holding her dog's paw at home.

And the risks you need to know.

Man and his pet at the vet's office.

Veterinarians weigh in on whether you should accompany your pet in the exam room—or let them fly solo.


Dalmatian dog at the vet.

Keep calm and get blood drawn.

Woman looking at pills for her dog at veterinary clinic.

No, you should not give your dog over-the-counter pain medication for humans.

Cute black and white 5-week-old Greyster puppy being held outdoors in man's hands in summer.

Read on to find out why spaying/neutering is so important, and what the right time is for your pup.

Smiling woman happy at the animal clinic with the veterinarian.

And why those price tags look like they do.

A woman checking out her dogs paw.

Simple preventive steps can go a long way toward offsetting their threats.

Woman playing with her puppy.

Whether you should save them for the tooth fairy is another issue entirely.

Mother dog and her puppy.

Of course, you’re their parent, too. But they need their biological mom for as long as possible.

Woman giving pill to Beagle Dog.

Always, always, always talk to your vet first.

Woman playing with her beagle dog inside.

A good old game of tug of war could help prevent doggie dementia.

dog sneezing outside in grass

Other than to completely freak you out.

Smiling woman wiping ears of dog

Heed all those cautionary tales about Q-tips.

A young woman walks with her dog in a winter park.

You’ve got good ol’ climate change to thank for this answer.

Puppy with one ear up an done ear down.

There’s a lot more to your pup’s furry appendages than you might think.

Cozy at home with tabby cat, woman with her pet on sofa at home in evening.

Here’s why it’s best to stay on top of things, even when the temps are low.

Dog plays at Dogwood Play Park.

Because the cold weather shouldn’t stop your dog from living their best life.

Hands of an unrecognizable woman are petting small Dachshund dog in the park.

Scientists are seeing some trends when it comes to pup mortality.

Older dog in Loyal drug trial to extend the lives of dogs.

LOY-002 is a drug aimed at improving your pet’s quality of life—and helping them live longer. 

Two companionable dogs, a Jack Russell Terrier and a Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, share a cozy couch.

A study finds small and large dogs have their own unique set of health concerns.

Young caucasian cheerful blonde girl sitting and hugging her lovely cocker spaniel dog in cafe.

Follow these vet-backed tips to help your best bud live a healthy and full life.

Young woman and her small white dog with a Whistle GPS.

Advancements in artificial intelligence are changing everything from the way we detect illnesses to how we keep our pets safe.

Girl sleeping with her French Bulldog dog in bed.

It’s one of several health problems facing brachycephalic breeds.

Winterizing your dog's coat - Dog laying in the snow.

Spoiler: These at-home remedies are probably already in your pantry.

A smiling veterinarian holding a cat

It’s extra important to be nice to the vet in your life.

Veterinarian holding syringe with vaccine near big white dog in clinic

Learn about how this test can help protect your pup.

Man in his mid 20's cuddling in bed with his white labrador puppy.

This study says you benefit from a power nap. Guess what? So does your cat or dog.

Dr. Kwane is CNN Hero of The Year 2023.

It’s a well-deserved honor for the vet who cares for the pets of unhoused people.

dog using diy paw wax to protect paws in snow standing next to fence

We all have to up our moisturizing game in the fall and winter.

senior dog

The founder and CEO of Loyal, Celine Halioua, tells Kinship what the future of pet parenthood could look like, starting with more time with your pup.

close up of Chihuahua dog's eye with cataracts

Your dog sees you as their best friend, so keep those eyes healthy.

Cute girl and huge black great dane face to face in front of window at morning time.

The FDA determined it has a “reasonable expectation of effectiveness.”

Little dog getting showered by his owner in the backyard.

And how you might safely give your pup immediate relief.

Smiling veterinarian examining medical documents of a Bulldog standing on her examination table

Reduce the stress of veterinary visits — for you and your pup.

woman with red hair holds senior Pomeranian dog

As dogs age, it’s important to recognize both physical and mental changes they may be experiencing.

A dog and a cat eating from the same food dish.

This National Pet Obesity Awareness Day, here are pro tips to help make sure your pet isn’t packing on too many pounds.

Dog Looking Out The Window.

Those soulful eyes mean everything to you—learn all about them.

Jack Russell Terrier in a yellow raincoat walks through the autumn park.

There’s a reason that sweet little nose is always pressed to the ground.

French bulldog being examined at the vet via stethoscope

Ways to lower your bill — without compromising your pet’s health.

woman smiling looking at small Australian Shepard

It sounds great, but here’s how it actually works.

Happy golden retriever dog on a walk with owner in woodsy yellow and orange fall setting with leaves on the dirt trail.

DIY ways to help your pup cope with the pain.

Young Woman With Two Brown Dogs.

A new study suggests that spending time with your pup isn’t just a way to avoid making plans; it’s great for their health.

Side view of smiling blonde woman with stick playing with black German Dane pet on beach.

Let’s debunk some things right now for new pet parents with questions.

Spotted dog with a close up of his nose

A vet explains when you can treat the injury at home — and when it’s best to seek professional help.

Young Man With Retriever Puppy

The research is confusing — here are some guidelines.

Woman taking temperature of her brown dog.

Don’t be scared. Follow these steps.

Happy dog with teeth visible, blue sky background

NYC’s top veterinary dentist on bad breath, dental disease, and brushing your dog’s teeth...daily.

man and lab puppy on park road

If it’s time for a round of shots (no, not that kind), follow this guide.

Woman taking care of her sick dog at home.

There are safer alternatives, and you should always, always check with a vet before giving your pup anything.

Happy woman at home cuddling on bed with cute jack russell dog.

Everything you need to know about the anti-seizure medication.

Woman holding frisbee and running on beach with Jack Russell Terrier.

You may have heard other pup parents praising this supplement. Here’s what a vet has to say.

A dog scratching itself among the leaves outside.

If allergens were to ask, “Am I the drama?,” the answer would be yes.

woman holds chimes over dog's head during a sound bath

Plus, the other effective holistic ways to get your dog to a zen place.

Young woman with her senior dog in the autumn park.

Your older dog is the love of your life. Here are some health issues to look out for.

Jack Russel Terrier mixed breed dog laying on his back on a white and gray rug getting his belly rubbed by his owner

You can do a DIY exam on your dog from your couch.

Dr. Kwane Stewart and a large black dog.

What It Takes to Save a Life: A Veterinarian’s Quest for Healing and Hope will help you see pet parenthood with new eyes.

Woman Doing Fitness With A Dog On The Beach

There’s such a thing as too much of a good thing.

Man leaning away from dog's face outside.

It might be a sign of a bigger issue.

a pair of English cream retriever dogs wiggle around on their backs with big grins on their faces

Here are four common dental problems your pup might face and how to treat them.

Brown Labrador lifting front leg

Spot lumps, limps, and lethargy early on.

Three german shepherds standing side by side outside with their tongues out.

This isn’t exactly like The Wizard of Oz’s “Horse of a Different Color” scenario, but it’s not not that.

Person holding a mix breed dog talking to veterinarian about their concerns.

Common vet pet peeves, if you will.

Man in a yellow t-shirt and black pants laying on the couch in an open and airy living room next to his tan and white sleeping dog

A new study finds that physical exercise could keep your dog sharp. Time for walkies!

A happy woman is lying on a bed, her dog smelling her face.

Here’s what you can scratch off your Worry About This list.

A female veterinarian examining a dog.

As a pet parent, the best thing you can do is be nice.

Three-legged white dog at the beach

6 tips to help your tripod dog stay in tip-top shape.

Terrier dog jumping and flying high

Leap Venture Studio is a springboard for these companies designing “flexitarian” pet diets, state-of-the-art health tools, and more.

Black puppy itches behind her ear due to flea allergy

Before you say “ewww” Moira Rose-style, learn these steps to prevent and remove fleas.


A woman holding a French bulldog over her shoulder.

Breeds with those squished-in faces are charming — but their health issues are not.

A sad looking golden doodle dog laying on the grass outside

The biggest thing to keep in mind: vaccines.

Dog sitting next to owner

Veterinarian Dr. Shea Cox on how to get comfortable checking your dog’s breathing, respiratory rate, and skin hydration.

French bulldog puppy looking scared at vet

There are no stupid questions — well, when it comes to your dog’s health.

black scruffy dog wearing cone recovering from spay surgery

A vet’s take on why it’s a smart choice. Snip, snip!

Woman comforting her Corgi

5 vet-approved techniques to make it go down easy.

Woman with arm tattoos and wearing a black t-shirt stretching out the back legs of a Shiba Inu dog laying on a dark green mat

Help your dog stay fit and flexible with these stretch techniques by a certified pet strength and conditioning specialist.

A woman laughing while sitting on a bench with her dog.

Your dog can’t tell you if they don’t feel well, but the cutting-edge AI behind this health tracker can.

Great Dane dog and Chihuahua dog laying in the grass

We know, our pets grow up too fast. But seriously, how fast is too fast (or slow)? Kinship and Waltham Petcare Science Institute created a simple tool to help your new pet’s growth stay on track.

3 Screenshots side by side of cover photos for three different Veterinarians who post videos on Tik Tok.

TikTok has an ton of veterinarians giving expert (and entertaining) advice at no cost.

Dog laying his head on owners lap while owner holds his ears.

Veterinarian Dr. Shea Cox on how to assess your dog’s eyes, ears, nose, and mouth.

A pet parent checks their dog's stomach.

Veterinarian Dr. Shea Cox on how to properly examine your dog’s stomach and musculoskeletal system.

Puppy lies in owner's lap and gets a belly rub

Veterinarian Dr. Shea Cox on how to take your dog’s temperature, find their pulse, and check their heart rate.

Man hugs his dog to his face

End-of-life veterinary specialist Dr. Shea Cox on how to make the most difficult decision in your pet parenting journey.

A man is lying on the ground with his dog licking his face.

Help! Why does my dog smell so bad?

Curly haired blonde woman hugging her old pug dog

Learn how to make their senior years as comfortable as possible.

Woman laying on the grass smiling at her dog

Number 6 will probably surprise you.

Dogs gathered in the backyard celebrating first birthday. Unrecognizable owner holding a birthday cake with a candle.

A new way to convert dog years to human years.

One month old brown brindle Jack Russell puppy lies on a woman's lap. She strokes the dog's soft tummy. Mother dog is watching nearby.

Does your pup have a pot belly? Have you noticed something moving in their poop? Yep — it’s time to talk about puppy parasites.

french bulldog with orange collar standing on grass

Veterinarians must do more to discourage the breeding of animals with conditions known to seriously compromise their welfare.

dog owner sad and comforting fluffy dog

Lessons on how to cope with a serious health diagnosis.

Woman with long straight black hair and a gold nose ring holding a senior Shiba Inu mixed breed dog wearing a red harness

Tips to help your oldster live long and prosper.

a Dalmation with heartworms comforted by owner

If heartworm happened to my dog, it can happen to yours.

Pet owner comforts cat

Relying on more than just tests, here’s what veterinarians do to help their patients.

A Rottweiler dog wearing a bright red harness leash while sitting on the stone ground outside

Tracking the oldest living Rottweilers.

Dalmatian mix breed dog is playing with a dog toy on a soft surface

Risk Management: Understanding pet insurance plans.

A woman measuring her Dalmatian mix senior dog's kibble food with a couple pill bottles on the table too in a modern looking living room

How many calories does a dog need?

Young female pet parent consulting with African-American male veterinarian while holding her Doxin dog in her lap

Become an advocate for your pet during their vet check-ups.

emailing your veterinarian

Is emailing your vet a reasonable expectation?