Ever Heard Of Doga?

Our world is full of new fads and animals are no exception to our need to update and be modern.

In the past few years, several new creations have emerged to help our furry friends feel better. Some are a little out there, some bring us closer to our pets and others really seem to make a difference.

There are three new players on the health and wellness scene that have really caught my attention, so I decided to do some more research:

• Doga: So, what exactly is Doga? It's doggy yoga! As reported in the Post-Gazette article, many owners say they see a difference in their dog's ability to relax, just as seen in humans. The scientific benefit hasn't been proven, however. This fad started in New York and has been moving throughout the country. Cats also have their version of kitty yoga so they too can feel the benefits. Pet yoga involves teaching your animals to put themselves into positions that better breathing, blood flow and relaxation.


• Acupuncture: Most people are familiar with the interesting process of putting needles in the body to release pressure and increase wellness. Now, animals can receive this treatment to ease their pain. In addition to acupuncture, pets can use other Chinese forms of healing such as herbs. Animal hospitals now offer these services. Deer Creek Animal Hospital in Littleton, CO even has two vets specially trained to focus in these areas of treatment.


• Pet Psychics: Psychics are always the targets of some skepticism as their trade is one that relies on things unseen. However, being able to talk to someone without a voice, like the dead or, say, a pet, has become quite desirable. We were first introduced to Sonya Fitzpatrick, a pet psychic, on her Animal Planet show. She would speak to pets and let owners know what they were thinking and what they wanted their humans to know. While not a huge craze, it has caught on for some.

Who knows what craze we love will become something we can share with our pets next.

(Picture courtesy of Dogadog.com)