Share your tips, stories and opinions

I am always a little surprised that many people have no idea what is involved with a declawing surgery. Have you had a cat that destructively clawed furniture? How did you deal with the situation? Are there cases where declawing should be allowed, or never as an elective procedure? Tell us what you think.

Dogs and cats are naturally curious and sometimes they are hunters. This combination can lead to bites and stings from insects, spiders, scorpions and snakes. If you suspect your pet has been bitten or stung, call your veterinarian immediately for specific advice. A photo or specimen of the pest is helpful. Please share your pet's story and outcome here to increase awareness for other pet lovers.

The post about veterinary behaviorists and Cesar Millan (the Dog Whisperer) got viewers talking about dog training methods.

Have you dealt with aggression, separation anxiety, fearfulness or other behavior problems with your dog?

I hope that the debate has created awareness and will ultimately evolve into something positive for animals everywhere. Please share what behavior problems you have faced, and worked for your dog.

In the Pets and Fireworks article, common noise phobia signs and behavior modification tips were offered. What worked with your pet for making it through fireworks and thunderstorms? Please share your tips and firework/thunderstorm stories here.

Zoonotic diseases are illnesses spread between animals and pets. These illnesses can be in the form of viral, bacterial, fungal, protozoal or parasite infections. Have you experienced a zoonotic disease?

Summertime is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors and longer days with our pets, but caution is advised; danger lurks on these bright beautiful days. The living isn't always easy if you are overheated, ate too much, or suffer from parasites. Have you experienced a weather-related illness or emergency with your pets? Please add your story here.

You found a lump on your pet. I know the fear and worry that comes with it. The first thing to do is make an appointment with your vet for help in determining what the lump may be, especially if your pet is lethargic, in pain, or bothering the lump. After seeing your vet, if your vet says to "watch the lump" for growth, what is the best way without worrying daily?

Pets often eat things they shouldn't. Was it a good-smelling item? A toy that seemed like a good idea to taste? Sometimes people give harmful foods or medications to their pets, not realizing the toxic potential. Lawn and garden items, such as slug bait, rat poison and cocoa mulch are all very toxic, made worse by the fact that they have an appealing taste. Please share your stories and warnings here. You may help prevent an emergency.

Careful consideration must be given to the size, age, type and temperament of prospective pets. Waiting a little longer in a shelter is preferable to being adopted and returned again. Some adoption organizations, such as the ASPCA, employ formal pet-people matching methods. Do these programs work? Was your family screened prior to adopting a pet? Are you too "old" to adopt?

The topic of veterinary technician salaries is a hotly debated one on this site. Is love of animals enough? Factoring in the cost of a formal vet tech education (versus on-the-job training), is this a career with adequate income for the level of training and responsibility?