Bipartisan PAWS Act To Help Veterans With PTSD

by Lori Ennis

Published: May 9th, 2017

bipartisan paws act to help veterans with ptsd

Two U.S. Senators reintroduced the Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers (PAWS) Act. The bipartisan bill is aimed at providing service dogs to U.S. military vets who are diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

The Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers (PAWS) Act was introduced last year by Senators Cory Booker (D) from New Jersey and Deb Fischer (R) from Nebraska, but the bill was put on hold and not enacted. The Senators have not given up the fight for the ACT, however, and reintroduced the bill to congress

The bill gives guidelines for how to implement providing service dogs to the United States Military servicemembers who are diagnosed with PTSD as a result of their service. Currently, the Veterans department does not offer service members assistance dogs, citing lack of evidence that they make a difference as a reason not to fund. Service members are forced to resort to the generosity of groups like K9 For Warriors, Vets Adopt Pets and Paws For Veterans to assist them as they reintegrate back into society.

Senator Fischer said of the bill that the service dogs can provide invaluable support, joy and peace to Americans who suffer the invisible scars of war. She said that for those veterans who have visible physical disabilities, a service dog program already exists and they don’t typically have difficulty getting one.

But for those who suffer from mental health disorders as a result of war and service to one’s country, there is nothing in place. The PAWS Act would give $10-million dollars to fund a pilot program that will train and distribute dogs to veterans with PTSD for five years.

Representative Ron. DeSantis (R) of Florida supports the bill with his fellow colleagues. He said that the Department of Veterans Affairs now also supports the program, even though there is no conclusive evidence regarding PTSD and the benefit of service dogs to service members. Rep. DeSantis introduced the House version of the PAWS Act last year and says that the bill is a no-brainer with no downside.

According to DeSantis, even if the benefits of the dogs are not as great to the service member as they believe they will be, the service members get the love and friendship and companionship of a dog, and that can make a big difference in their lives.

And that difference doesn’t depend on party lines.

[Source: WTOP]

Lori Ennis

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In honor of Veterans Day, learn how you can help Paws for Veterans give disabled solders and rescue dogs a new lease on life. For some soldiers, the battle doesn’t end when they return home. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a big problem for veterans returning home and trying to reintegrate into day-to-day life. Now, there is a new tool in the arsenal of recovery from PTSD – and it has four legs and a cold nose.

Karma Rescue Pairs Hurricane Harvey Shelter Dogs With Inmates To Help

Hard-to-adopt dogs are made more adoptable after training from inmates in maximum security prisons. Karma Rescue’s program will take shelter dogs displaced from Hurricane Harvey and train them to help people with PTSD. Karma Rescue’s program takes rescue dogs that have been designated for euthanasia and puts them with inmates who have been taught by Karma trainers to train the dogs. The dogs go through the Canine Good Citizenship program with the inmates as their trainers, and when graduated, are placed as newly ‘highly adoptable’ dogs in their forever homes. Related: Wagging Support For Wounded Warriors Service Dog Act Karma has recently introduced shelter dogs from Hurricane Harvey in their newest program, designed to train dogs to assist those with symptoms of PTSD. Inmates teach dogs approximately 60 commands, many purposed to help their humans with emotional distress and to retrieve their medication for them. Many who receive the dogs are veterans who have been diagnosed with PTSD. Now, a new batch of dogs will graduate from training at Lancaster State Prison on September 21 in Lancaster, California. Director of Operation for Karma Rescue and Paws For Life Alex Tonner said that the program is life-changing for the dogs, inmates who train and military veterans. The dogs are hand-selected and the inmates give back to society by preparing the dogs to help with veterans who have PTSD. Tonner says that saving a dog saves people as they go through this program and help with the nearly half a million people untreated for PTSD. The program looks to match veterans with dogs to solve the problem of abandoned dogs and untreated veterans. Related: Bipartisan PAWS Act To Help Veterans With PTSD Tonner says that saving a dog saves people as they go through this program and help with the nearly half a million people untreated for PTSD. The program looks to match veterans with dogs to solve the problem of abandoned dogs and untreated veterans. If you’d like more information about the rescue program or to donate to help save shelter dogs and U.S. Vets, you can go to Karma Rescue and learn more or donate.

Veteran’s PTSD Service Dog Banned at VA Hospital

A military veteran and his PTSD service dog are going up against the government, after being given a federal citation for bringing the dog with him to a VA hospital. Brandon Rimmer is a former K-9 handler in the United States Air Force who served two combat tours in explosive detection. The Ohio man brought his four-month-old lab Old GLory with him to the Cincinnati VA hospital, and was given a hard time from VA Police who told him that the dog was not allowed to come with him. Related: Bipartisan PAWS Act To Help Veterans With PTSD Rimmer claimed that he is covered under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) for his PTSD, but the police disagreed and gave him a violation that will require him to appear in court in July. David Bartos is the Cincinnati VA police chief and said that he believes Old Glory is just a pet puppy, not a service animal. According to Bartos, a service animal is trained to do tasks for the disabled, but having PTSD doesn’t qualify because offering emotional support is not a task. The ADA disagrees, however, as guidelines say that a service animal calming people with PTSD does qualify. And while it seems that two federal government organizations might have differing opinions of what rules would apply, doesn’t it just make sense to err on the side of the man who sacrificed his life in the name of his country? The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that over 50% of Vietnam, Gulf War/Iraq (Desert Storm) and Afghanistan veterans suffer from PTSD, and it’s well-known that service animals can offer so much for those suffering from the trauma of war and combat. Related: New Report Shows Army’s Failure In Taking Care Of Heroic Canines So what in the world is being proven by preventing a war hero from having his service dog with him, in a place that is supposed to be taking care of our heroes? That’s what Rimmer plans to look at, when he goes to court on July 18. He said he’s going to go against the government so no veteran with PTSD ever has to have this happen to them. It’s a sad state of affairs when the very place our Veterans go to for help and recovery can’t be compassionate with them.

How Do I Manage My Dog's Separation Anxiety When I'm At Work?

No one likes to be separated from their cherished pet for too long. But going to work is unavoidable for most of us, and, inevitably, our pets have to stay home alone. It might not seem like a big deal to you, knowing you’ll be back after a few hours, but it is definitely a big deal for your dog. In fact, most pet dogs are affected by this separation so much that they can experience anxiety and stress, ranging from mild discomfort to severe panic. Needless to say, this is traumatic for your pet (and can result in destroyed valuables, too) so it’s important to learn how to help them manage anxiety when you’re away. Here are some tips to help you navigate your pet’s separation anxiety while you’re at the office. 6 Ways To Prevent Dog Separation Anxiety When You’re At WorkGoing off to work and leaving their pet behind is a challenge for many pet owners around the world, especially those who live alone. When you're at the office, you need to make sure your pet is safe and taken care of until you come back. But even when you organize everything, your pet might feel stressed out on their own - even when it’s for a few hours, your dog won’t know why you left or even if you are coming back which can be a trigger for a panic attack for some canines. Some, especially  velcro dogs, get so nervous and stressed that they develop a separation anxiety disorder. But even so, there are many ways to help your pet cope when you're at work, regardless of the severity of their anxiety – here are 6 ways to reduce stress for your four-legged bestie.Create a Consistent Routine:Dogs thrive when they have a routine. Establish a consistent daily schedule for feeding, walks, and playtime. This helps them know what to expect and when. You can create their schedule around your work hours, so your pet will not find it odd that you are not there when they know what to expect before and after your shift (e.g. walk and mealtime).Gradual Departures and Arrivals:Don't make a big fuss when leaving or returning home. Keep your arrivals and departures low-key to reduce anxiety. This helps normalize the process. Make it seem like you just popped out for a few minutes. If you help your dog understand it is not a big deal, they might pick up on your relaxed energy and stay calm when you depart.Offer Interactive Toys: 

Are Bengal Cats Really That Wild? Here's What Science Has to Say.

Bengal cats are a truly stunning feline breed, in many ways. According to the International Cat Association (TICA), they hold the title of being the most popular cat breed globally, and it doesn’t really come as a surprise. Their unique and exotic appearance, their unavoidable charm, and their slender physique are certainly the reason for this prestigious title. But even though they are popular, Bengal cats are a relatively new breed in the field of domesticated cats. While most ordinary domestic cat breeds have been around for thousands of years, Bengal cats have been around for less than a century, which comes as a stark contrast. They are a hybrid breed as well, having been created in the 1960s. They came about from the crossing of the domestic cat (Felis Catus), and the Asian Leopard cats (Prionailurus Bengalensis), which are a small, spotted, wild cat species living in Asia. What makes the combination unique is the fact that these two cat species had a common ancestor about 6 million years ago, which means that the genetic differences between them are incredible. The differences are even greater than between humans and chimpanzees!The resulting breed is the Bengal cat, and it is adored for its exotic appearance. It has special spots, just like ocelots or leopards. But most folks ascribe the unique coloration and patterns of these felines to the DNA they received from their wild and distantly related ancestors. And that’s why scientific folks paid special attention to the ancestry of Bengal cats. Greg Barsh, MD, Ph.D., Faculty Investigator at HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology and Professor of Genetics at Stanford University,  himself an expert in the genetics of feline coat coloration and patterning is a key figure in the research process of Bengal ancestry. Together with his team, which is led by Chris Kaelin, Ph.D., and Kelly McGowan, MD, Ph.D., Mr. Barsh is working hard towards unraveling Bengal ancestry through the genetics of popular color traits."Cats are wonderful companions," he explains for  Phys.org, "but our interests go beyond their beautiful and exotic appearance. Like the amazing variation among different dog breeds, artificial selection can be a very powerful engine to create morphologic diversity. What's different about Bengal cats from dogs is the raw genetic material–dogs trace their heritage to wolves from tens of thousands of years ago.""In contrast, Bengal cats trace their heritage to completely different species from millions of years ago. Understanding how these distantly related genomes interact is a general question that applies to any situation when different species exchange genes, from crops to aquaculture to humans and Neandertals."And even though this is a relatively new breed, started about 60 years ago by a few cat enthusiasts, it has grown incredibly during this time. Today, there are hundreds of thousands of registered Bengal cats, which are produced by about 2,000 breeders. Chris Kaelin, the leader of the Bengal cat DNA study, said “Cat fanciers and breeders are very interested in the research, in part because they want to know more about the science behind artificial selection, and in part, because they want to know if our results can help them produce cats with rosettes, stripes, or other exotic markings.” He also added "This is a great example of citizen science–our work has been enabled by the willingness of breeders to participate, and we share our results with the community."One of the surprising discoveries that was produced from the study is that Asian Leopard DNA contributes no more than a few percent to the overall Bengal Cat DNA. In fact, it is revealed that there isn’t one or even a few Asian leopard genes that are causing the unique spotted Bengal appearance. "One of the original motivations for bringing together DNA from the two species was to select for Asian leopard DNA that would recapitulate the appearance of an exotic wild cat in a companion animal," said Kaelin. "It turns out that some of the most striking examples of selection in the breed are for traits that were already present, but very rare, in domestic cats."So, the study reveals that the Bengals are in many ways totally unique. Mixing the two very unique breeds resulted in a cat that is exotic, elegant, charming, and above all loveable. And now, the results published are providing valuable information to all the enthusiasts in love with the Bengal breed. 

American Airlines Makes It Easier To Travel With Pets

They say to travel is to live, but deciding to leave a beloved pet at home can make you feel guilty - and bringing them along on an adventure can be tough on the bank account. No one truly wants to leave their four-legged best friend behind and figure out whether to hire a pet sitter or look for a boarding facility, but airlines don’t always make it easy for pet parents to travel with their fur babies.Finally, there’s some good news for pet parents and their four-legged companions! American Airlines has changed their pet policy, making it easier and more affordable for pet owners to fly with their fur babies.“On flights with American, you can bring one pet carrier as a carry-on if: You pay the carry-on pet fee; Your pet stays in the pet carrier and under the seat in front of you the entire flight,” shared American Airlines’ on their website. The company added that passengers can also bring “only one additional item on board with your pet” which can be a small personal item like a handbag or a purse, or a carry-on bag that meets the airline’s requirements and fits in the overhead bin compartment. The important thing to note is that you can only bring one with your pet carrier, not both.In the past, people who traveled with pets could only bring one small personal item abroad, which could fit under the seat. Anything bigger than that - for example, a larger carry-on bag that usually goes in the overhead bin - had to be checked, which was an additional $35. As an alternative, pet owners could transport their pets in the cargo hold if they wanted to take a bigger bag with them on the flight. Thanks to recent policy changes, people traveling with pets can now bring a pet aboard and choose whether they’ll travel with a carry-on bag or a personal item. At the same time, no changes to American Airlines' pet travel fee have been made. According to the company’s website, the fee remains fixed at $150 and applies per kennel, each way. For now, pet strollers must be checked at the ticket counter, and all checked bag fees apply. There are a few things to keep in mind before flying off into the sunset with your four-legged friend. All airlines are different. Every airline has its own policies for traveling with pets, so be sure to check the specific restrictions and fees on your flight before you book the tickets. Southwest, JetBlue, Delta, Alaska, and United are a few other airlines that allow pet travel, but each has its own travel requirements. Each airline specifies what pets can travel where. There are also limitations on the number of pets a passenger can bring abroad on different aircrafts. Only two pets in the same carrier can come aboard for American Airlines flights. Don’t forget that capacity is limited, meaning that checked pets are accepted on a first-come basis. Country-based restrictions also apply, and people traveling with pets should check and understand destination restrictions when traveling abroad.Lastly, whatever airline you decide to fly with, you have to find your pet an airline-compliant carrier. Without the right pet carrier, your fur baby won’t be able to fly on a plane with you. There is a lot to think about when traveling with a pet. But all will become worth it when you touch down and start making fun and exciting travel memories with your four-legged companion. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Expats May Need to Leave their Pets Behind as Travel Costs Skyrocket

Animal travel has always been expensive, but it’s about to become unaffordable for many pet lovers. Pet owners moving abroad may be forced to leave their pets behind after animal travel costs have gone up by as much as 400 percent!IAG Cargo, a sister company to British Airways, Vueling, and Aer Lingus, has recently announced that it was raising travel prices along some routes beginning March 1. This unexpected move shocked pet owners with relocation plans, particularly those moving to and from Britain and the United States. “To reflect the complexities of this bespoke service and the cost of providing the very best care for pets traveling as cargo, we have made some amendments to our prices,” a spokesperson for IAG Cargo said in a statement. This shipping company is mostly used by military personnel to move their pets abroad while deployed. After three years at their duty station in the UK, Sara and her family are moving back to the U.S. The family’s two dogs, Bentley and Ghost, are booked on a British Airways flight on 1 March.Under the current policy, IAG Cargo only accepts a booking for a pet transfer up to six weeks before the flight. The company then confirms the space has been requested. Two weeks before the flight, once the planes have been scheduled on that route, the IAG Cargo confirms the booking, locking in the price.Initially, Sara’s family was quoted $1,450 for a flight from London to Baltimore for both dogs. However, due to the recent price hike, the travel price for the dogs has jumped to $6,500! And that’s without the administration fees and the cost of the agency the family is using to arrange the cargo shipment. “We are paying out of our own pocket for this, and we just bought a house in our new location,” said Sara to BBC. “Our dogs are like our children, we would do anything for them but that doesn’t mean it’s not devastating for our finances.”The family’s shipping agent found another airline that could ship their dogs at a lower price. The catch - they would have to make a seven-hour round trip to collect the dogs from another airport. Sara explained that her dogs are small in size and that she believes people shipping large-size dogs could face shipping costs over $10,000.“I already know a number of people who did not bring their pets [to the UK] because of the costs to bring them one way… People are going to be shocked,” she added.Details about the new pricing and affected routes are still unclear, but some companies that work with IAG Cargo are already seeing the effects. Kimberly Cirone, a director at Pets Abroad UK, a pet relocation company that assists pet owners with travel arrangements and works with airlines, said that the costs of pet transport between Britain and the United States have increased by 400 percent without warning, consideration, or explanation.The unexpected price hike has left many military families in turmoil as they are unable to gather the necessary funds in time to have their pets shipped back home. “It’s a huge amount to organize, and within days or weeks of arriving one of those family members may be sent on to areas of conflict. The dog or cat is hugely important, it is the family’s companion when one partner is away fighting and this will be hugely distressing for them.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

These Are the States With the Most Spoiled Doggos in 2023

With the holiday season fast approaching, it is the time for presents, cuddling, yummy meals and, to be honest, spoiling the one you love, including your four-legged bestie. But are there some pet parents that take it a bit too far, and if so, do we know in which states they live? If you are one of those owners who like to pamper their furry friend and spoil them to no end, stick around to find out who’s guilty of overindulging their doggo just like you!An interesting  Forbes Advisor survey estimates that around 22.2% of dog owners in the USA, or one in five, admit to having spent more money on  Christmas gifts for their dogs, rather than gifts for friends and family. This means that there are certainly some pampered and spoiled doggos to be found across the nation, but what is more interesting is that dog owners in certain states tend to spoil dogs more than in others. Now, after a nationwide survey, the results are in!With a score of 100 out of 100, Florida definitely wins as the state with the most spoiled dogs! The Sunshine State is reported to have around 66.5% of owners who spend more money on their dog’s health, grooming, and gifts, than on their own. They are also more likely to pamper dogs by perfuming them, pushing them in strollers, buying them clothes and gifts, or taking them to restaurants. Interestingly, the second place, and right behind Florida, is Alaska, with a score of 98.69 out of 100. Nearly half of all dog owners in this northerly state admit to regularly throwing birthday parties for their pooches, purchasing them special outfits, and even putting cologne on them. They too will spend more money on their pets than on themselves.Behind Florida and Alaska in places 1 and 2 respectively, are the following states:3. Washington - 91.82 out of 1004. Colorado - 82.04 out of 1005. California - 77.96 out of 1006. New Jersey - 77.52 out of 1007. Illinois - 77.23 out of 1008. Texas - 70.80 out of 1009. Delaware - 69.93 out of 10010. Virginia - 69.34 out of 100The survey also offered some indicators and activities that might suggest that you are spoiling your dog. If you regularly do some of these activities, you might be pampering your pooch as well!Taking family photos with the dog Ordering the dog a special treat at a restaurant Bringing the dog on vacationPushing the dog in a strollerSpending more money on the dog’s health and grooming than on their own Buying the dog outfits and accessoriesSo, what’s the result? Are you too on the list of owners who spoil their pets? Let us know!

Is it OK to Give Dogs Raw Bones?

While dogs can be picky eaters, they’re not really known as pets with the most refined pallets. Pooches tend to be voracious and their appetites are indiscriminate, so they’ll munch on anything – anytime.However, as a responsible owner, you should make sure that whatever they’re snacking on is something that’s safe for them to eat – which can be a bit stressful. For instance, the image of a dog with a bone is all but ingrained in people’s brains, but do dogs really need to chew on bones? And, if so, are raw bones fine or do you need to cook them first?Many owners are fearful that bones are not entirely appropriate for dogs, both because of potential bacterial contamination and the risk of bone splintering. Because of this, feeding dogs raw bones can be a controversial topic, and it's important to consider various factors before deciding whether or not to offer this natural snack to your pet. Before you make your decision, here are some important aspects to take into account.Is it OK to Give Dogs Raw Bones?Whether it’s a childhood memory or a scene in an old cartoon, you’ve probably seen a dig happily gnawing on a bone (and a cat drinking cow milk), but are bones really good for dogs – or is it just a myth that they enjoy them? While raw bones for dogs can have some benefits, such as offering important trace minerals, or a way to naturally  remove plaque buildup from a dog’s teeth, there are some risks to giving your pet raw bones. Mainly, two things about raw bones concern dog owners – their tendency to splinter and potential bacterial contamination. When it comes to splintering, it is much less likely for a raw bone to splinter than a cooked one, but still, it is wise to choose bigger bones to minimize the risks even more. As for the chance for the bones to be contaminated with salmonella or E. coli, the key is to source the bones from a trusted, responsible supplier.With those things in mind, if you are still interested in giving your dog raw bones, here are some key steps to follow to make sure that your pet is safe and enjoys their natural chew treat without any adverse effects:#1 Always supervise your petIf you decide to give your dog a raw bone, it's essential to supervise them closely. This helps prevent potential choking hazards, broken teeth, or possible injuries if splintering does occur.#2 Pick the right size

FDA Approves New Treatment for Anxiety and Fear in Cats

It’s no secret that most cats get really stressed out when they have to leave the house, especially for a trip to the veterinarian. And the anxiety and fear that your pet experiences can certainly affect you as a pet parent as well, making you feel awful about having to put your cat through such a scary experience.The good news is there are things you can try to help reduce the stress your kitty feels, and one of the latest solutions is a new treatment recently approved by the FDA.Bonqat for CatsIn November 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved pregabalin, also known as Bonqat, for cats.The oral solution is not a sedative; instead, it affects the neurotransmitters that are involved in acute anxiety and fear. Therefore, it can be used to reduce the stress experienced by cats who are being transported for any reason, and it can be helpful for those who get frightened when they go to the vet.To determine if this medicine would be effective, cats were given either a placebo or Bonqat before being transported by car and examined by a veterinarian (the cats had a history of being fearful and/or anxious under those circumstances). The results? While roughly one-third of the kitties who got the placebo had a positive response, just over half of those given the medicine did better while being transported and examined. Also, over the course of two examinations, 77% of the kitties who took Bonqat had less fear and anxiety, while 46% of those given the placebo exhibited an improvement in their fear and anxiety levels.Discuss Bonqat with Your VeterinarianYou can only get Bonqat with a prescription from your veterinarian, so discuss its pros and cons to determine if this medicine would be right for your cat based on factors like age and medical conditions. And bear in mind that side effects, such as ataxia, vomiting, and lethargy, might occur with Bonqat.To reap the benefits of Bonqat, you simply give it to your cat about 1.5 hours prior to transporting them or taking them to the vet. This medicine is a liquid, and it can be given to your pet with a bit of food.Also, there are some precautions that need to be taken while administering this medicine to your cat. For example, it shouldn’t make contact with your eyes, mucous membranes, or skin. So, in addition to talking to your vet about how to use it correctly to ensure your cat gets the best results, you also want to be well-informed about how to handle this medicine safely.For more information about Bonqat and how it works, click here.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How to Tell Your Cats Are About to Fight, According to Scientists

Have you ever wondered if your cats are play fighting or fighting for real? People living in multi-cat households know that the occasional scuffle or a full-blown cat fight is bound to happen. However, many cat owners have a hard time figuring out whether their cats are fighting or roughhousing. A new study published in Scientific Reports can provide some clues. As it turns out, certain behaviors could indicate whether an interaction between two felines is friendly, aggressive, or something in between. In this study, scientists, including Noema Gajdoš-Kmecová from the University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Slovakia, analyzed 105 videos of interactions between 210 cats. The videos were obtained directly from cat owners and YouTube. After watching around one-third of the videos, Gajdoš-Kmecová pinpointed six types of specific behaviors, including wrestling, chasing, staying still, vocalizing, interactive, and non-interactive activities. She then watched all the videos again to see which cats exhibited one of these specific behaviors and for how long. After running a statistical analysis, Gajdoš-Kmecová was able to identify three distinctive types of interactions between the cat pairs - playful, intermediate, and aggressive. To confirm her findings, other members of the research team also watched the videos and classified each interaction between cats. Over half of the cats from the videos, 56% to be exact, exhibited playful interactions. According to the study, playful interactions included wrestling and a lack of vocalization. About 29% were labeled as agonistic, meaning they exhibited any type of social behavior that included threatening, aggression, and submission. Cats in this group vocalized and exhibited recurring bouts of inactivity.The cats in the intermediate group were involved in both aggressive and playful encounters. According to researchers, this group showed prolonged exchanges of specific behaviors, like laying on the back with the belly exposed, pouncing, stalking, and grooming each other. Scientists believe that this mixture of playful and aggressive behavior may be a sign of short-term friction between the cats rather than the end of the relationship. “This might escalate into a fully agonistic encounter but does not necessarily reflect a breakdown in their social relationship but rather a short-term disagreement in social priorities,” researchers wrote in the study. This study is the first to apply a scientific approach to cat behavior that can be identified by experienced and first-time owners alike. Thanks to this study, scientists can now classify inter-cat interactions as either playful, agonistic, or intermediate. “Wrestling can be a sign of a fight but if it comes with bouts of inactivity then that often means it is playful,” explained Profesor Daniel Mills, who led the study.“Playfighting is also without vocalizations. That’s the profile of a friendly cat. The agonistic cat, they might not do as much wrestling with inactivity but they do lots of vocalization.”“Owners should keep an eye out on how much they are wrestling and whether or not they’re vocalizing. Vocalizing can be broad and include meowing and also yowling,” he added. We all know when cats are fighting fur real, but it’s important to recognize intermediate interactions, where things could end in play or escalate into a real fight. “A lot of cats end up at cat rescue centers because the owners think that they’ve fallen out. In the clinic, I’ve seen cats that are playing and the owner thinks it’s a real fight,” said Professor Mills. If your cats are really getting along (share food and toys and sleep together), an occasional bout of agonistic play is okay. But if your cats aren’t the best of friends, you should look for signs of agonistic behavior. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Humans Are Getting Their Pets Sick – Here's What You Need To Know

Zoonosis are diseases that can be transmitted from other vertebrate animals to humans, such as rabies or Lyme disease, and has been around ever since we started domesticating animals. However, recent studies reveal that a new and lesser-known form of zoonose is becoming increasingly common: the reverse zoonose. This is the latest phenomenon, where disease can be transmitted from humans to their pets. Dr. Benjamin Anderson from the University of Florida was amongst the first to warn about the increase of reverse zoonoses. He said that more attention should be paid to disease transmission “in the opposite direction”, and that both pets and their owners can be threatened by it, especially when sharing close quarters with one another.“We’re starting to see a lot of examples of reverse zoonosis. Pets are more susceptible than, maybe, we previously thought,” he said. “Typically, the viruses that I will have as a human are not going to fit into the receptors that a dog or cat has.”This means that reverse zoonoses typically appear when a pathogen in humans mutates and then adapts to a new animal host. In the past, however, it was much rarer for this to happen, because humans and animals have a totally different biology.But now, the viruses like  coronavirus or influenza have a much higher chance of cross-species transmission. This is mainly due to their RNA-based genetic material, which is more likely to mutate or have replication errors. According to Dr. Anderson, there are several diseases that have been documented to transmit from humans to their pets. These include COVID-19, tuberculosis, swine flu, dengue, human-norovirus, and other viral, fungal, parasitic, and bacterial infections.To make matters worse, the highest chances for this to happen is with pets such as dogs, cats, horses, and ferrets, as they have the most genetic similarity to humans, being mammals. “We have to first ask how the pathogen gets into those animals in the first place,” said Dr. Anderson for  Phys.org. “The pathogen doesn’t develop out of thin air in animals before suddenly spilling over into humans. While pathogens certainly can move from animals to other animals and can be picked up from the environment, exposure to humans also plays an important role. It’s this constant back and forth exchange that happens over time, increasing the probability of a mutation taking place that allows the pathogen to infect a new host.”Dr. Anderson also noted the difficulty in tracking reverse zoonoses, as it is a big challenge to link the transmission of diseases between humans and animals. Because of this, Dr. Anderson advises pet owners to be cautious around pets, particularly if they are sick with communicable diseases, like COVID-19 or the flu. Maintain good hygiene around your pets, and avoid direct contact.

Common Garden Plants That Can Send Your Dog into Cardiac Arrest

Spring is finally upon us! For dog owners, spring is always a welcoming sight as it signals the start of longer walks in the park and more time in the garden. The backyard is usually a fun place for you and your pooch to play and run around. However, certain types of plants are dangerous to dogs and can make your backyard a safety hazard. Experts advise that some spring plants and flowers, both indoors and outdoors, can be harmful to your pooch and should be avoided at all costs. Some of these plants are known to cause upset stomachs, itching, vomiting, and, in severe cases, even cardiac arrest in dogs. Craig Wilson, co-founder, director, and gardening expert at Gardeners Dream, has listed the toxic flowers and plants you should keep from the home and garden if you have a dog. DaffodilsDid you know that daffodils, one of the most popular heralds of spring, are poisonous to both cats and dogs? These trumpet-shaped flowers contain a toxic compound called lycorine which causes stomach pain and diarrhea when ingested. Bulbs are the most toxic part of the daffodil plant, but dogs can also get sick after consuming the flowers. Even drinking the water from a vase that contains daffodils can cause toxicity in dogs.Tulips All parts of the tulip plant - bulbs, stems, leaves, and flowers - are toxic to both cats and dogs. The bulb stores the highest concentration of toxins, making it the most toxic part of the plant. Most dogs will experience drooling, diarrhea, and vomiting after consuming tulips. In severe cases, dogs can experience heart problems and difficulty breathing.IrisesColorful and hardy irises are a popular flower in many household gardens. Unfortunately, irises are toxic to dogs and can make your pooch sick if ingested or touched. Irises contain irisin, a toxic compound that triggers tissue irritation when swallowed or touched. The bulbs and rhizomes hold the highest concentration of irisin, making this plant particularly hazardous to dogs who like to dig.Hyacinths Many people like planting hyacinths in their gardens, but these tall and vibrant plants are harmful to dogs. Hyacinths belong to the same family as tulips and contain calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals are present in all areas of the plant and are shaped like needles. When ingested, these crystals can pierce a dog’s soft tissues, causing severe pain.Symptoms of hyacinth poisoning also include diarrhea, vomiting, abnormal breathing, increased heart rate, and convulsions. If you suspect your pooch has ingested any part of the hyacinth plant, take them to the vet as soon as possible. BluebellsAll parts of the bluebell plant contain a toxic compound called glycosides. Not only are bluebells harmful to cats and dogs, but this plant is also toxic to horses and cattle. If any part of the bluebell plant is consumed, it can cause stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. When eaten in large quantities, bluebells can be fatal.Hydrangeas Many gardeners love the look of hydrangeas in the spring and fall, but dog owners beware - hydrangeas are toxic to dogs. Dogs can become poisoned from eating any part of the hydrangea plant, as they all contain cyanogenic glycoside.Chewing plants with this toxic compound releases cyanide and can result in loss of appetite, vomiting, depression, and increased heart rate. Munching on the flowers, buds, leaves, or bark of the hydrangea plant can make dogs sick, so keep a close eye on your pooch whenever they are sniffing around a hydrangea plant.These are just some of the most common plants that can make your dog sick, but there are more! If your pooch likes to munch on plants, it’s best not to leave them unsupervised in the garden.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

New Study Reveals More About How Cats Purr

Pet parents love hearing their cats purr while in a relaxed and blissful state, and it’s believed that a kitty’s purr could be healing, too. But, no matter how long you’ve shared your home with felines, you might still wonder how your furry friend is able to make such a unique sound. New research now sheds some more light on how cats purr, so people can learn even more about their feline companions.

UK Insurance Giant Names Pets as Culprit in Over 6,000 Claims

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Once-Abused Dog Celebrates First Christmas With Vet Who Saved Him

A puppy who survived a terrible beating has celebrated his ‘first proper’ Christmas with a veterinarian nurse who provided a loving furever home for him.A whippet named Terry was only 12 weeks old when he was viciously attacked by his owner and left with severe trauma injuries after he urinated inside. The injured pup was taken to the Hull PDSA Animal Hospital in East Yorks, England, where he was treated by the veterinary nurse Rachel Coombes. During the initial exam, the hospital’s staff discovered that Terry had a bruised eye and lips. The pup was also missing three of his upper incisors, and another tooth was broken.For nurse Coombes, this was love at first sight! She told her colleagues that if Terry survived, she would adopt him, and that’s exactly what she did.Although Terry celebrated Christmas with Rachel and her son Stanley last year, this year was their ‘first proper’ Christmas together since Terry is now fully settled in with the family.“I just felt a connection as soon as he was brought in as he was in such a state we actually thought initially that he hadn’t made it,” said nurse Rachel according to Talker. “Then when we spotted gentle breathing I did say ‘if he survives this I’m going to give him home’ which is exactly what I did.”From that moment on, Terry’s life changed completely! “He hasn’t looked back since - he loves life and is having the best of life right now.” According to his new owner, Terry likes to run around the garden and enjoys going to the beach. The pooch has also formed a strong bond with Rachel’s son, Stanley, and is always by his side. “Last year, we got him around Christmas, but it was such a hectic time for him, and he was learning to settle then.” But this year, the family planned a festive celebration for Terry and did everything to make him feel special during the holiday season. Due to the suspicious nature of Terry’s injuries, RSPCA Inspector Laura Barber was asked to investigate. The inspector said that despite the severity of his injuries and his overall state, Terry had put his head on her and was so trusting. “He was in such a sad state and was really quiet and withdrawn when he was with people. He was so lovable, and it is great to see he has a home he deserves with such a lovely family.”“I know Terry will have the best first proper Christmas with his lovely new family and one he thoroughly deserves,” the inspector added. Terry’s extensive injuries were enough to build a case against his former owner. After appearing in court and admitting to causing unnecessary suffering to a dog, the person was handed a five-year ban on keeping animals. Emily Lomas, an animal care assistant at RSPCA’s Hull branch, said she was thrilled when she learned that Rachel had adopted Terry. “He was very traumatized and overwhelmed when he came to us, we had to really show him there was nothing to be scared of and that he was now safe. We took him to the socialization room, and I remember him falling asleep on my legs,” said Lomas.“We were all thrilled when he was adopted and knew he was going to a special home,” she added.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

UK Wildlife Park Rehabilitates Potty-Mouthed Parrots

The struggle is real! Profanity-laced parrots may turn park's aviary into an adult-only zone.

Lost Tortoise Found After 3 Years

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