Study Finds That Classical Music Calms Kennel Dogs

by Mary Simpson

Published: March 6th, 2015

study finds that classical music calms kennel dogs

Pump up the tunes. Music soothes the stressed-out beast… or in this case, an anxious pooch.

Whoever said “music hath charms to sooth the savage breast” absolutely nailed it according to researchers at the University of Glasgow!

Working in conjunction with the good folk at the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, they ran a two-week study on rescue dogs being sheltered at a re-homing center. While half were observed in silence, the other half had classical music pumped into their kennels. The process was changed up the second week, with the first group now receiving the musical treatment.

You got it…. Stress levels decreased significantly when music played.

The boys were apparently more “in-tune” with the selections than the girls and overall the canine audience spent less time standing around barking when music was played. Heart rates were monitored, saliva samples taken and behaviour observed to arrive at the results and by the end of the first week, the conclusions also proved that like us, our best friends need to switch it up a little. They’re looking for a little variety here, not the same old, same old. Hmmm…. Maybe “How Much is that Doggie in the Window”, “Hound Dog” or better still, “Who Let the Dogs Out?”

So while heart rates and behaviours typical of kennel stress returned to normal by the end of the week, it was clear the classical music did have a positive impact in this study which forms part of a series of animate and inanimate environmental enrichment techniques that are being used with kennels to try to minimise the stress experienced by dogs.

Here’s a thought: I wonder if their “Bach” is worse than their bite? Okay, somebody stop me!

[Source: Business Standard]

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

More by Mary Simpson

BARK Air Introduces a New Flight Tailored for Dogs

View Article

Why Are Dogs Afraid of Vacuums?

The terrorizing whirl of the motor; its almighty sucking strength; and fearsome reach of the hose. Do you really need to ask: Why are dogs afraid of vacuums? You are undoubtedly familiar with the term “scaredy cat,” but some dogs can be just as easily frightened as the most skittish cat …especially when the vacuum cleaner comes out. Some dogs get a little bit nervous around the vacuum while others are completely terrified and will do anything they can to escape. If your dog is afraid of the vacuum, take a few minutes to learn the reason behind his fear and then implement some simple steps to deal with the problem. Why are Dogs Afraid of Vacuums There are many times when your dog becomes frightened of something that you know to be completely innocuous, but your dog simply cannot be convinced. For many dogs, the vacuum is one of the most frightening things in the house. Some dog owners find this amusing simply because it seems so absurd, but you should take your dog’s fears seriously. The first step is to learn why your dog is afraid of the vacuum – then you can learn how to work with or through your dog’s fear. Related: 5 Zen Ways To Manage Dog Stress One of the main reasons dogs are afraid of vacuums is the noise. Dogs have a keen sense of hearing, so if the vacuum seems loud to you, it is much worse for your dog. Not only do vacuums produce a lot of noise, but they also produce high-frequency sounds that can frighten or annoy your dog. Some dogs also have a problem with the suddenness of the noise – the vacuum goes from silent to noisy in an instant. Another potential cause of fear for your dog is the smells the vacuum kicks up as you clean. In addition to having an intense sense of hearing, dogs also have an acute sense of smell. The vacuum lifts dirt and debris from deep in the carpet, kicking up odors as it goes along. This can result in sensory overload for your dog, especially if it has been a while since you last vacuumed. It is also possible that your dog is alarmed by the suction of the vacuum – when your dog sniffs the vacuum, the vacuum sniffs back but at a much greater strength. Related: Study Finds That Classical Music Calms Kennel Dogs How to Vacuum Without Scaring Your Dog One of the best things you can do to prevent your dog from becoming afraid of the vacuum is to expose him to it at an early age. Socialization for puppies is all about new experiences; if your puppy isn’t properly socialized, he will respond to new things with caution or fear as an adult. If your dog is already an adult, however, you may not have this option available. Exposing your dog to the vacuum in small increments may work, especially if you give your dog treats when the vacuum is around so he learns that it isn’t something to fear. This is called desensitization: you slowly work with your dog to change his fearful response into a positive response by not only getting him used to the vacuum but by rewarding him for having a positive response. One way to do this is to have a friend or family member run the vacuum in another room while you play with and pet your dog. Have your friend move the vacuum slowly closer while you keep rewarding your dog with treats, encouraging him to stay where he is as the vacuum approaches. You may not be able to do this all at once, but short sessions with plenty of repetition and reward will eventually teach your dog not to fear the vacuum. If you stopped doing all of the things that made your dog nervous or frightened, the list of things left would be abbreviated. Rather than letting your home become a mess of dirt and debris, implement the steps listed above to get your dog used to the vacuum so he doesn’t run for cover every time it comes out of the closet.

Big Bang Theory: The Science Behind Dogs & Loud Noise

Why do some dogs hate fireworks, while others seem unaffected by the sound? New research studies the behavior behind noise sensitivities. Whenever I decide to make dinner at my boyfriend’s house, his black lab Blue goes running down to the family room and hides between the sofa and coffee table. Trembling, he’ll stay there for however long it takes me to finish whatever I’m doing and coax him up with a treat. Why does Blue run? Perhaps it’s because from time to time, I’ve been known to set off the smoke detector. Blue anticipates this and heads for cover as soon as he sees me open the oven door while black lab mix Cody stays close at hand waiting for bits of carrot or celery to land his way. Apparently this mixed reaction to sudden and loud noises is not that uncommon amongst our canine friends and it intrigued Oslo’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences at Norwegian University of Life Sciences so much so, that they decided to research the phenomenon. Related: Study Finds That Classical Music Calms Kennel Dogs Their quest was to understand why some dogs react while others do not and their research included studying the behavior of 5,257 dogs from 17 different breed clubs. Owners completed an online survey that asked them to rate their pooch’s sensitivity to noise from four different scenarios: fireworks, loud noises (banging sounds/gunshots), thunderstorms and heavy traffic (Hmmm…. no smoke detectors). For each of the four noises, owners rated the severity of their dog’s responses on a fear scale of one-to-five that included a low of “no signs” to a high of “very strong signs” of anxiety. Of those surveyed, 23 percent scored a “very strong” for at least one of the four noise types and was thereby deemed a noise sensitive, fearful dog. Related: Plug It In, Chill Out: Do Pet Pheromone Plugs-Ins Really Work? What makes these 23 percent so anxious? Suggestions have been offered up and include everything from genetics to a traumatic experience to social transmission (learned response from other dogs), or even parental reaction that includes punishment for fear related behaviors or over-coddling. But it seems that physiological played a bigger factor over psychological. In addition to pinpointing fireworks and thunder as garnering the strongest reaction from fearful pooches, age played a factor with older dogs being more anxious, females being 30 percent more sensitive to noise than males and neutered animals versus un-neutered being 72 percent more likely to cower from sudden noises. Additionally, certain breeds proved more fearful of sudden noises including the Norwegian Buhunds, Shiba Inus, Lagotto Romagnolo and Irish Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers. The least bothered by things that go bang in the night included Pointers, Great Danes, Boxers and Chinese Crested dogs. In spite of the leaning towards nature versus nurture, the research data did not rule out the fact that each subject’s personal history might also have influenced his reaction to the noises. Stanley Coren, author of The Modern Dog, The Intelligence of Dogs and Why Does My Dog Act That Way? states “… if we are looking at a general physiological predisposition toward fearfulness, then noise sensitivity should predict the anxiety related behavior of a dog in other situations as well. The results of this investigation seem to confirm that. A dog which is fearful to loud noises turns out to be three times more likely to show separation anxiety.” Apparently said dog also takes longer to calm after a frightening or stressful situation. So this means I’m really going to have to up my game when it comes to the type of treat used to woo Blue out of hiding. [Source: Psychology Today]

Music That’s Made Just for Dogs Helps Anxiety and Depression

You can Kickstart an album of tail-wagging tunes. “Songs for Dogs and the People who Love them” hopes to ease your dog’s mind by filling your home with dog-friendly music. I’ve always wondered what my dog does at home when everyone has gone off to work for the day. I’d like to think she’d run around on the tiled kitchen floor, skidding merrily with her tongue and long, dachshund ears flittering in the wind. But the truth is, I always find her in one of three places: curled up in her doggy bed, on the couch or (her personal favorite) snuggled up against my pillows. The unfortunate truth is that pooches may become extremely bored, anxious or even develop depression when you’re away. Taylor Brown aims to change the way your dog feels when you’re gone by filling your home with music from his album dubbed “Songs for Dogs and the People who Love them”… but he needs your help to do it. Taylor has started a Kickstarter campaign to finance his dream to get you and your dog’s tail waggin’. Related: Study Finds That Classical Music Calms Kennel Dogs If you’re sitting there thinking, “Why on earth would I help someone make a CD for my dog?” you’re not alone. But hear me out, as there is a science behind this. Close your eyes and think of your jam – the one song that makes you want to get up and shake your hips to its infectiously happy rhythm. There’s something about the universal sound of music that makes you happy inside and believe it or not, dogs have it too. Dogs associate new behaviors through sound, especially that of a human voice. Think about it – your furry child doesn’t know what you’re saying, but they can recognize anger, sadness and happiness purely by the sound of your voice. By including a cheery voice in this album’s songs, the dog associates that tone of voice with happiness. If you’re still skeptical, all you need to think about is the last time there was a thunderstorm. If your pooch is anything like mine (who whimpers and hides in the laundry basket, under the bed or wine cellar) you can understand that even the distant sound of lightning is enough to downright terrify them. Dogs associate sounds with experiences, just like we do, both good and bad. Related: Could Music Ease Your Dog’s Separation Anxiety? Dogs and humans also go through a mental process called entrainment, in which our heart rate and brain activity naturally responds and syncs to consistent rhythms, sounds and speeds around us. The music in “Songs for Dogs and the People who Love them” is especially calibrated to maximize the entrainment value in your dog. Because these are dog-friendly sounds and music, your dog may temporarily forget that you are out of the house because suddenly, your home isn’t an awful, scary silent prison when you’re out. Over time, your pooch will associate this music with good feelings and experiences and, like us, develop good memories to its tune. Taylor’s happy tunes aren’t just for your pooch, although they will definitely reap most of the rewards. Once you’ve received Taylor’s album, both you and your furry companion can kick back, relax, and listen to it a few times together. Then, once it’s time to start your day, simply pop the CD into your player before you leave and let your home be filled with comforting, dog-friendly sounds that will ease your dog’s mind and lull them into a happy state of mind. To help this album reach the top of the charts, rock on over to the official Kickstarter campaign page and secure your own download when it gets released.

Concert Cellist Performs for Florida Humane Society Shelter

Professional cellist Natalie Helm performed for a very select group of furry music lovers Florida’s Humane Society of Sarasota County – and the dogs loved it! Black tie was optional for a recent performance by principal cellist of the Sarasota Orchestra, Natalie Helm. Also optional were tickets, a program and, well, clothing. No, the talented cellist wasn’t playing to a theater full of nudists, but a kennel full of adoptable rescues who just couldn’t get enough of the soothing strings. It was during a recent visit to her local shelter that the performer came up with the idea. In her words, “I know it’s very cliché, but music is a language that everyone appreciates and understands.” She thought her talents could prove beneficial to the homeless hounds and she was “spot” on (get it?) Related: Study Finds That Classical Music Calms Kennel Dogs For anyone who has visited a rescue shelter, the noise, energy and stress levels are through the roof for the lonesome little soles – one of the main reasons that Florida’s Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC) was so quick to take Helm up on her offer of a special command performance. Just imagine the surprise of the caged pooches as Helm set up her chair, sat down with her cello and began to play. “I could really sense they were enjoying it. There was a great feeling of peacefulness that spread quickly through the kennels.” The musician confirms she plans many return engagements at this particular venue. Related: Music That’s Made Just for Dogs Fights Anxiety and Depression While not all shelters can deliver live performances, many do pipe in classical music which has proven to be an effective tool for calming rescues with studies showing that dogs’ stress levels really do decrease after music is played in their kennels. [Source: The Bark]

With Just a Sniff, Dogs May be Able to Curtail PTSD Episodes

Halifax's Dalhousie University finds dogs can identify the adrenaline hormone through an individual's breath.

What Should I Do If My Dog is Afraid of Nail Trims?

The dreaded nail clippers – a source of stress and occasional doggy drama in our home as well as for many dog parents. You see, our youngest pup, Lucifer, and I have been on quite the journey to conquer his fear of nail trimming. If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation, you know the struggle all too well!But fear not, because in this article, I’m sharing our personal tale of progress and a toolkit of tips we’ve picked up along the way to help overcome your dog’s fear of nail clipping.So, let’s swap nail-trimming anxiety for confidence and cooperation, one paw at a time.Why Does My Dog Hate Nail Trims?The first step to overcoming a fear of nail trims is understanding why the sight of nail clippers is a source of anxiety for your dog. After all, the clippers themselves aren’t frightening or intimidating.For many dogs, the fear of having their nails cut is rooted in a desire to protect their paws. This is a survival instinct, as they need their paws to survive in the wild, both to escape predators and be able to catch food. They haven’t been taught that the process of having their nails cut or their paws handled isn’t going to cause harm.If your dog was previously okay with having their nails trimmed and suddenly changes their mind and lashes out when you try, this is a sign of trouble. Have you recently cut your dog`s nail and accidentally nicked the quick of the nail? If so, your dog may associate the experience with the pain and discomfort they felt at that moment.This could also indicate that your dog feels pain in their leg or paw. Watch for other signs of distress or discomfort, like lameness, limping, or excessively licking the area. If you suspect your dog is in pain or if your dog has shown a behavior change that you can’t otherwise explain, contact your veterinarian. They can run the tests necessary to help diagnose the problem and recommend ways to provide effective pain relief.For us, with Lucifer, we are overcoming a reaction due to previous pain. He suffered injuries to his front paws before he was rescued and adopted out to us as a puppy. While we have worked with specialists to help him heal and move on from these injuries, he is still more protective of his paws and dislikes having them handled. What Happens if You Wait Too Long to Cut Dog Nails?Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed and cared for is an integral part of grooming. How often you need to trim their nails will vary, depending on their breed, age, and lifestyle. Some dogs will naturally wear down their nails from walking and running on rough surfaces, as they would in the wild, while others don’t engage in these activities frequently enough to keep up with nail growth.When a dog’s nails become overgrown, they interfere with their ability to stand and walk properly, reducing traction and potentially causing injuries in their feet and tendons. This is because the nails contact the floor before their paw pads. Over time, this can also lead to long-term injuries, deformities in the paw or leg, or arthritis. This can also cause older dogs to slip and fall due to losing traction and unsteadiness on their feet.

Can Counterconditioning Help My Reactive Dog?

Caring for and managing a reactive dog can be incredibly frustrating. Your dog may be a sweet angel at home, but they suddenly evolve into a barking, growling, lunging whirlwind when out in public.Luckily, there is hope!Overcoming reactivity is a process that will not happen overnight. However, dog trainers and behaviorists have seen great success with positive reinforcement techniques like counterconditioning.This article will explore how counterconditioning works, the steps involved in the process, realistic timelines and expectations, and tips for a successful journey toward a calmer, more confident dog. Get started today!What is Counterconditioning for Dogs?Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is counterconditioning, and why is it recommended for managing and treating reactive dogs?Counterconditioning is a behavioral modification technique that focuses on changing your dog’s emotional response to a specific stimulus.For example, some dogs feel fear and anxiety at the sight of another dog. This could be due to a lack of socialization, meaning they weren’t taught that other dogs can be friendly. It could also be a reaction to a past trauma, like having been attacked by another dog. In these situations, counterconditioning can be used to teach your dog that the sight of another dog leads to a positive experience.Why is this an effective approach for addressing reactivity? Reactivity, by definition, is an overreaction to a trigger. While this is often associated with fear or anxiety, some reactive dogs become overly excited. An overexcited dog may jump all over strangers not because they are trying to cause harm but because they are so excited to see them that they can’t control their response.If you have identified your dog’s triggers, you can use this training approach to teach them to respond in a new (and better) way.What Can Counterconditioning Be Used to Treat?Reactivity isn’t the only behavioral condition that can be treated with counterconditioning. This technique can be used to address a wide spectrum of situations in which a pet may be responding to a situation or trigger in an unwanted way.Some situations where it is commonly recommended include helping dogs overcome specific fears or phobias as well as managing or overcoming behaviors related to obsessive-compulsive disorder.Common fears that may be addressed with counterconditioning include: Fear of car ridesAnxiety when visiting the vetNoises (fireworks, thunder)Babies (especially the sound of crying)Strangers or other dogs in publicAllowing guests to enter their homePhysical triggers like cars or bicyclesDogs who dislike grooming, like brushing or having their nails trimmedIf you believe this approach may be helpful in your dog’s unique situation, we recommend speaking with a behaviorist.You can find professionals in your area by browsing the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists website list or the Animal Behavior Consultants Directory by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.

These Dog Foods Are Recalled Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination

Owners should always be careful about the food that they give to their pet – and it’s only natural that every caring owner will naturally want the best for their pet. But sometimes, even getting the best of the best is not a guarantee as accidents can happen anytime. In this case, the issue is that several popular dog food brands got potentially contaminated with salmonellla. Recently, owners had been shocked to find out that three brands of pet food were recalled - having tested positive for salmonella. And in fact, the past year saw at least seven recalls of dog food brands that were either contaminated with this nasty bacteria, or had harmful elevated levels of vitamins. And, to make matters worse, 2019 saw several dogs get seriously ill after consuming the food. And our dear four-legged friends are not the only ones at risk - handling the contaminated dog food, we too are exposed to salmonella. In 2012, up to 49 people in the United States and Canada fell ill after an outbreak of salmonella that was traced to dry dog food. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 10 persons were so ill that hospitalization was required.According to the CDC, the pesky salmonella bacteria causes “an estimated 1.3 million infections in Americans every year, resulting in 26,500 hospitalizations and 420 deaths.”As for the latest recalls, a notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, released on October 30th, includes the following foods: “one by Mid America Pet Food of Mount Pleasant, Texas, involving three lots of Victor Super Premium Dog Food, Select Beef Meal & Brown Rice Formula after random sampling found salmonella, which can sicken pets as well as people who come in contact with it.” Furthermore, it is stated that the food was “Sold by retailers across the U.S., the recalled products come in five-pound, 15-pound and 40-pound bags with a best-by-date of June 12, 2024, and contain one of the following three lot numbers on the back of the products: 1000016890, 1000016891, 1000016892.”The second recall involves TFP Nutrition of Nacogdoches, and their Retriever All Life Stages Mini Chunk Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food, in 50lbs bags, with best-by-dates of October 2024 and production codes of either 3277 TFP or 3278 TFP. Lastly, the third recall in the latest wave is Blue Ridge Beef of Statesville, North Carolina, which is recalling Breeders Choice dog food with the UPC code 8 54298 00193 1 due to possible salmonella contamination.In case you suspect your pet has eaten any potentially infected foods, it is important to know the  symptoms of salmonella poisoning in pets: they can be lethargic, listless, or have diarrhea that is followed by fever and vomiting. If you recognise these in your pet, don’t hesitate to contact your vet. And, if you suspect that the dog food you have is contaminated, make sure to destroy it in a way that children, animals, or people cannot get in contact with it.

What to Know About Cat Reproduction

With a better understanding of feline reproduction, you can take steps to prevent unwanted litters, and you’ll know what to expect if you have an intact female or male.What does it mean when a queen (intact female cat) is in heat? How long does a pregnancy last? And why does it seem that cats are so good at reproducing? Below are the basics to help you get started.  There Are Multiple Stages in the Cat Heat CycleA cat’s estrous cycle, also known as her heat cycle, consists of multiple phases. Also, females are seasonally polyestrous, so they can go into heat more than once throughout the breeding season.The stages of a cat’s heat cycle are:Proestrus – During this phase, which will last about a day or two, you probably won’t notice any obvious changes in your cat.Estrus – During this phase, which lasts about a week on average, a female cat will behave in a way that lets males know that she wants to mate.Interestrus – If a cat doesn’t mate, she’ll go into this phase, which can also last about a week on average, until she goes into proestrus again. If a queen mates, ovulates, and becomes pregnant, she will enter diestrus.If a queen isn’t in a heat cycle at all, she’s in anestrus, which can last months.Cats Can Get Pregnant When They’re a Few Months OldCats become sexually mature around 6 months of age, on average, but it can happen even sooner than that. For example, a female can go into heat when she’s a mere four months old.This means that even kittens can mate and get pregnant. If you have intact male and female kittens, this is definitely something to be aware of. Talk to your veterinarian about the best time to spay or neuter your feline companions to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Cat Pregnancy Is Roughly Two Months LongA cat’s pregnancy can be shorter at 60 days or longer at 71 days. On average, a cat will give birth in about nine weeks, or 63 to 65 days. In other words, the pregnancy will be roughly two months long.On average, a cat will have four kittens, but she might have just one or she might have six or more. A queen’s age may affect the size of her litter—for example, a cat who’s pregnant for the first time is more likely to have a smaller litter, as is an older queen.After giving birth, a cat might go into heat again sooner than you think. It might even happen while her kittens are still nursing. So, if you’re caring for a mother and her litter, it’s important to prevent another pregnancy by keeping her safe indoors and away from intact males. Cats Are Induced OvulatorsWhat’s interesting about cats is that they’re induced ovulators. Put simply, when cats mate, the female ovulates, releasing eggs from her ovaries. And since the eggs are released with mating, it times out in a way that boosts the odds of pregnancy.A queen typically needs to mate multiple times before eggs are released, and she could mate with more than one male while she’s in heat.  A Litter of Kittens Can Have Different FathersAs mentioned above, a queen will mate more than once while she’s in heat. Well, another interesting fact about cats is that they can mate with more than one male while they’re in heat, so they could end up with kittens that have different fathers.In other words, a single litter of kittens could have two or more fathers. This is known as superfecundation.There Are Several Signs of Pregnancy in CatsHow can you tell if a cat is pregnant? Even though there are going to be several signs as the fetuses develop, you might not notice anything right away.You might first notice the queen’s nipples becoming more obvious. This is followed by weight gain that will eventually cause her belly to be big and round. Changes in behavior are also often seen in pregnant cats. Her appetite will increase, she may become more needy and affectionate, and she’ll look for a nest where she can give birth safely and comfortably.If you are caring for a pregnant cat, consider getting a product like the Sport Pet Pop Open Pet Kennel, which features two entryways, has a waterproof bottom, and comes with a removable, machine washable pad. She might view this as the perfect nesting box, and you’ll feel good knowing she’ll be secure in there with her kittens.

Enigmatic Respiratory Illness Targets Dogs – These Are The Symptoms

A mysterious and seemingly quite dangerous dog respiratory illness is spreading across the United States– and has veterinarians perplexed. This illness is compared to pneumonia, as it starts with coughing and gradually worsens. To make matters even worse, the illness seems to be resistant to common antibiotics.Officials are now releasing  statements that say dogs are most likely to contract this enigmatic illness directly through contact with other dogs. What this means is that the danger lurks in dog parks, grooming salons, kennels, and any other place where a lot of dogs can be found.While there are some enigmatic aspects to the disease, there are ways, luckily, to recognize it quickly. The most common symptoms to keep an eye out for are coughing, trouble breathing, wheezing, sneezing, nasal and eye discharge, fatigue, lethargy, and so on. According to the Oregon Department of Agriculture, dogs who exhibit these symptoms may also test negative for common causes of respiratory illnesses. Needless to say, owners who spot these symptoms in their dogs should go to the vet immediately. In the meantime, vets are advising owners to avoid places with a lot of dogs for the time being, and also to make sure that their pets are “up to date” with all the necessary vaccinations. And although it is a new illness, officials at the Oregon Department of Agriculture have said that three main categories of cases can already be observed.Chronic mild-moderate tracheobronchitis with a prolonged duration (6 to 8 weeks or longer) that is minimally or not responsive to antibiotics. Chronic pneumonia that is minimally or not responsive to antibiotics.Acute pneumonia rapidly becomes severe and often leads to poor outcomes in as little as 24-36 hours.Checkups are advised, of course, and vets urge owners to schedule visits before exposing their dogs to potentially dangerous environments. According to officials, the illness had been reported in the following U.S. states: Washington, Idaho, Illinois, California, Indiana, Florida, Georgia, Colorado, Oregon, and New Hampshire.“Reduce contact with large numbers of unknown dogs.” the officials advise. “Just like with other respiratory pathogens, the more contacts your dog has, the greater the risk of encountering a dog that’s infectious.”While experts advise dog owners to be careful, but not to worry too much without a reason. Needless to say, you should avoid contact with dogs that look sick or exhibit symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, or runny nose and eyes. Do your best to keep your dog away from them. Another thing to avoid is communal water sources from which many dogs drink. And if your four-legged friend exhibits these symptoms, make sure to keep them at home in order to keep other dogs safe – and of course contact a vet to make sure they get the right treatment on time.

What Should I Include in a Pet First Aid Kit?

As loving pet parents, we do everything possible to keep our furry companions safe and healthy. However, life is unpredictable, and accidents happen, so we must be prepared for unexpected emergencies. This includes ensuring we have a fully stocked, pet-friendly first aid kit available. In this article, we’ll discuss the essential items you should have on hand to care for your pet in those unforeseen moments. From basic cuts and scrapes to more severe injuries, you’ll be prepared to act as your pet’s first line of defense when it matters most. Can You Use a Human First Aid Kit on Dogs and Cats? Yes, sort of. Most of the items included in a human first aid kit can be used to treat your pet in the case of an emergency. You may be wondering – if they can use the same supplies, why do I need a first aid kit specifically for pets? Some items you won’t find in a human first aid kit may be necessary depending on your pet’s injury or ailment. These could address a problem that only a dog or cat could experience, or they may involve finding alternatives for human products that are unsafe for our pets, like human medications. What Human First Aid Products Can Be Used on Dogs and Cats? Most standard items in your first aid kit can be used on dogs and cats. For example, bandages, gauze pads, ice packs, and medical tape are all suitable for pets. They are the exact same items often included in both human and pet first aid kits. Tools like scissors, latex gloves, and tweezers will also be helpful when performing first aid on a pet. This means that if you currently have a standard human first aid kit at home, you are already well on your way to being prepared to take care of your pet in an emergency. To update your human first aid kit and make it suitable for pets, you will just need to add a few important items:

How Can I Reduce My Dog's Environmental Pawprint?

In today’s day and age, with the climate and environment at great risk, we want to do anything we can to minimize our own carbon footprint and the damage we do to Mother Nature. Of course, our pets also have an environmental impact – and eco-conscious pet parents are always on the lookout for simple ways to reduce their pet’s carbon footprint (or pawprint if we’re being precise). Luckily, there are a lot of small but important steps that you can take in order to make your pet’s lifestyle and care much more eco-friendly without compromising the quality of life they are used to. Here's where to start if you want to become a more eco-friendly, sustainable dog owner!5 Ways You Can Reduce Your Dog's Environmental PawprintCaring for your pet can be challenging, and that’s no secret. However, the things that make it easier are not often very good for the environment, and can make your pet’s environmental pawprint significant. Luckily, it does not take too much of a change to turn that completely around and start improving that environmental impact, day by day. What follows are just a few of the basic steps you can take as a caring and responsible owner.#1 Be Responsible About Your Pet’s Waste Disposal:

Britain's Beloved Breed, the Scottish Terrier, Faces Extinction

Once an icon of British culture, the Scottish terrier is now facing extinction. The Scottie has a distinctive silhouette of a short-legged but sturdy dog with furnishings at the beard, legs, and lower body.These mighty pooches decorated everything from the Monopoly board to designer bags, and shortbread tins. However, the Kennel Club has placed the Scottish terrier on its “at watch” list after only 406 puppies were registered by breeders in 2023.The number of registered Scotties has been plummeting for five consecutive years, but this is a record low.The Scottie was the most popular in the 1930s when there were more than 5,800 registered puppies in a single year. Presidents Franklin D Roosevelt and George W Bush enjoyed the company of Scottie dogs, while countless celebrities including Dorothy Parker and Charles Lindbergh owned a Scottish terrier. Originally bred to hunt foxes, badgers, and other vermin in the Highlands, the Scottish terrier has a loyal, fateful, and bold nature, but is never aggressive. Scotties are dignified, self-assured, independent, and highly intelligent dogs that make wonderful companions to people of all ages.Unfortunately, the Scottie isn’t the only dog that has fallen out of favor with British dog lovers. On the Kennel Club’s “at watch” list are also the English pointer, the rough collie, the wire fox terrier, the Sussex spaniel, the curly-coated retriever, the otterhound, the Gordon setter, the Norwich terrier, and the Manchester terrier. “The Scottish terrier has been such an icon and recognizable breed in the UK for decades and means so much to so many different people, so these latest figures are really worrying,” said Bill Lambart, a spokesman for the Kennel Club.On the other end of the popularity spectrum are Bernese mountain dogs and miniature longhaired Dachshunds, which saw the biggest rise in registrations. The English setter, the Jack Russel terrier, and the Yorkshire terrier also experienced a surge in popularity. Brits are lucky to have more than two hundred wonderful dog breeds to choose from. Each of these breeds has unique personality and character traits and make amazing companions. However, most dogs seen in the parks and streets come from the top ten most popular breeds.“People often opt for well-known choices and simply forget to dig a little deeper, with the worrying knock-on effect that not only are some of our most iconic breeds in decline but also that people might not be getting the perfect match for them,” said Lambert. “People simply forget there are so many different dog breeds, with different personalities and characteristics, and it’s not just the well-known ones that could be a great match for our lifestyles.” The Kennel Club is pleased to see that some of the country’s native breeds, like the English setter, are regaining their popularity. However, the organization also stresses that many breeds are at risk of extinction only because they are no longer fashionable. The top ten most popular breeds in the UK, including the French bulldog, Labrador retriever, and Cocker spaniel, account for more than 60 percent of annual puppy registrations for all breeds. Despite the low registration numbers, there’s still hope for the Scottish terrier. Breed enthusiasts and clubs have started to promote the breed’s unique traits, in hopes of increasing the public’s interest in this amazing breed. The plan to educate the public about the Scottish terrier’s character, history, and suitability as a companion pet could be essential for boosting the breed’s registration numbers. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Are You A Hugger? Some Dogs Prefer You Back Off!

When it comes to snuggling your pet, the language of love can differ.

Animal Shelter Receives Donations in Memory of Jon Stewart’s Dog

Comedian Jon Stewart returned to “The Daily Show” on Comedy Central in February, and viewers have been tuning in to watch him talk about current events. Stewart hosts every Monday night, serving up news in a hilarious way. But on February 26, he closed the show on a somber note, spending a few minutes talking about his dog, Dipper.Jon Stewart Remembers His Extraordinary DogStewart shared a touching story of how he met and came to adopt Dipper. He explained that, 12 or 13 years ago, his young children wanted to raise money for Animal Haven, a no-kill shelter for dogs and cats in New York City. To fundraise, his family baked cupcakes and set up an area outside of the shelter to sell them.  He went on to say that the shelter brought out a pit bull who was about 1 year old. At this point, Stewart started to break down, clearly getting emotional as he explained that the dog had been hit by a car in Brooklyn and had lost one of his legs as a result.Through tears, Stewart said his family left the shelter after raising some much-needed funds for a wonderful organization that does great work. But they also left with the very special pit bull who had stolen their hearts and who was, as Stewart described him, the best boy. Dipper even used to go to the studio with Stewart, so he met the famous people who were guests on the show.Then, Stewart shared the devastating news that Dipper had passed away just the day before. He ended with a wish for everyone to find an amazing dog they could love. And then, for the show’s “Moment of Zen,” they played an adorable video of Dipper playing in the snow.You can watch the segment here:

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: 

Lost Dog Rescued After Surviving Six Years Alone in the Woods

A senior dog found living in the woods in the U.K. has been rescued and is now looking for a loving home.The dog, named Rose, was first spotted near Crawley Down in West Sussex, England. The Lost Dog Recovery UK South shared in a social media post that they’ve received a message from a concerned member of the public about a small black dog running in the road.The person who saw the dog “stopped the traffic” and let the pooch disappear into the woods, knowing it’s best not to follow. After visiting the nearest property, the person learned that locals were familiar with the dog and that drivers often stopped by saying that the pooch had been on the road. The locals explained that the dog was a stray fed by people.The individual who spotted the dog was troubled by the idea of a dog living in the woods and contacted the Lost Dog Recovery rescue organization with this information. Knowing that this could be a case of an “owned dog allowed to roam” the organization decided to investigate by setting out food for the pooch along with cameras to track its movements. The dog was caught on camera five times in two days and by the third day appeared to be waiting for meals.The organization also talked with residents in the area about the dog and were told that the dog was a stray who lived locally for about ten years. The residents also said that the dog should be left alone because was in good condition, fed, and cared for. After talking about this situation with another household, which has been leaving food for wildlife and were allegedly responsible for the dog’s care, the rescue decided to help the dog. Over the following week, the organization established a feeding schedule and confirmed that the pooch was indeed a senior dog. They set a trap for the dog by serving a warm roast chicken and managed to catch her.“Understandably she was shocked and scared, but very gentle, and was taken immediately to the warmth and safety of kennels,” the organization shared.  After taking her to the kennels, the organization made a shocking discovery - the dog was microchipped! Her name was Rose and she had gone missing from her owners less than 24 hours after they adopted her in 2017! A now 12-year-old Patterdale terrier, Rose, has gone missing from Ashurst Woods, located only six miles away from Crawley Down, where the organization found her. Unfortunately, there was no happy reunion for Rose. The organization managed to contact Rose’s registered owners, but they explained that they were in no position to take her back since their circumstances had changed dramatically and they had moved away. “After the initial shock, our absolute joy at finding a long-lost dog is tinged with sadness as there is no happy reunion for Rose; she never got the chance to know the love of her family,” the organization said in a post. They added that Rose is going to need time, patience, and rehabilitation, and being a senior dog she’ll likely need ongoing vet care and medication. Rose is going to be cared for by Last Chance Animal Rescue in Edenbridge, U.K. After sharing Rose’s story, the rescue received several inquiries about her from families willing to adopt her and give her a safe, warm, and loving home.“Please don’t leave a dog straying for longer than they have to be...not only for them and their wellbeing but also for the sake of humans who love them,” the organization added. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Cat Chattering: What Is It and What Does It Mean?

Cats communicate with each other and their humans in a variety of ways through vocalizations and body language. While you may be able to figure out what your cat is saying when they meow or hiss, you might be at a loss for an explanation when you see them chatter for the first time, especially if you’ve never seen cats do this before.What does it mean when cats chatter? Check out the information below to learn all about it so you’ll be able to figure out what your kitty is thinking and feeling the next time you see them exhibit this odd behavior.What Is Chattering in Cats?Chattering usually happens when a kitty sees something that they want to get their paws on. Many times, they’ll be looking out the window when a prey animal, like a chipmunk or bird, comes into view. Or, if your kitty spends time in a catio or outdoor enclosure, they might start chattering when they see small wildlife. As soon as your cat sees their intended prey, they may be ready to go on the hunt, and might express this feeling by chattering.This behavior doesn’t only happen when your kitty sees wildlife, though. It can also happen when you’re using a toy to play with them. The movement of the toy can get them excited and ready to pounce on their “prey,” and they might chatter as a result.Once you know what cat chattering looks like, you’ll be able to recognize it right away. But if you’ve never seen it before, it can be described simply as your cat making quick movements with their jaw, showing their teeth while staring intently at their target. Sometimes, no sounds will come out, but other times, they’ll make chirping sounds or even little meows. Some people even describe chattering as “ekekek”.To see what it looks like, here’s a compilation of cats chattering:

Top stories

Study Finds That Classical Music Calms Kennel Dogs

BARK Air Introduces a New Flight Tailored for Dogs

Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?

Top stories

Study Finds That Classical Music Calms Kennel Dogs

Related articles