When I was a child, brushing my teeth was my least favorite part of the nightly routine. Of course I eventually learned the value of tooth-brushing, and now as a pet owner, I've discovered that taking care of my pet's teeth is just as important.

Interpersonal violence is more pervasive than many people realize. Statistics show that 1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence in her life. In recent years, a strong and surprising connection has been documented linking animal abuse and domestic violence: in 85 percent of homes where women or children are being abused, a pet is also suffering abuse.

Sterilization helps combat the pet overpopulation problem and also curbs unwanted behaviors in dogs not selected for breeding. In the past the only way to stop a dog from fathering litter after litter of unwanted puppies was surgical castration. Now a new option exists: Neutersol, an injected chemical sterilization product.