University of Washington To Study New Dog Anti-Aging Drug

by Donna Schwontkowski

Published: August 31st, 2016

university of washington to study new dog anti aging drug

You want your dog to live forever but you’ll settle for 20-25 years, right? Did you know that the breed you choose has a lot to do with how long your dog will live?

Larger dogs may not make it past 11 years … and that means that you could be crying twice as much in your lifetime due to the loss of a dog.

Well, University of Washington anti-aging researchers want to start collecting data that helps them determine what exactly is going on with dogs – why small dogs live to be about 20 and larger dogs aren’t so lucky.

Part of the reason why dogs don’t live to be old and start degenerating fast, sometimes after the age of 7, could be related to the environment.

Just as a canary was taken into the mines to determine when the gasses were not right for the miners, our pet dogs may be sentinels for us. What happens to them could be a precursor of what happens and is happening to us.

The researchers are searching for 10,000 dogs to be part of the study and will collect info on the genotype of every dog, the microbiome (helpful bacteria in the intestinal tract), epigenome and metabolome.

They will also be discovering whether or not a high dose of Rapamycin, a drug for heart function will improve dogs with failing heart conditions.

While I’m not anti-science, it’s important to note that genes aren’t everything. The length of life is also determined by the environment. That includes certain chemicals, pesticides and foods that turn off genes for health and turn on genes for disease.

The environment also means the dog’s nutrient status – how much of the vitamins and minerals is he getting for good health and what is he low in. Just like in humans, vitamin and mineral deficiencies can cause problems that lead to a shorter life span.

Here’s what you can do to lengthen your dog’s life: start with the basics. What are the nutrients that the heart needs for good functioning and provide them? Get these answers and then make changes in the dog food so all dogs can live longer.

However, if you’re interested in taking part in the study, you can get more information by contacting the University of Washington.

Source: [ Smithsonian Mag]

Donna Schwontkowski

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Be Part of the 10,000 Dog Aging Project To Study Why Smaller Dogs Live

Have you ever wondered why small dogs live longer than large dogs? Well, a team of researchers from the United States sure did and that became the catalyst behind the 10,000 Dog Aging Project. Let’s face it, our pets are important members of our family. And just like their human counterparts, we’d do anything to ensure their health and safety. Which is why you might want to sit up and take notice of a massive joint study that is about to be undertaken by the University of Washington School of Medicine and the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. In fact, you may want to do more. You may want to become involved! You see, it’s called the 10,000 Dog Aging Project and its ultimate goal is to help your pooch live a healthier, longer life. As the name implies, it’s all about aging and it’s enlisting the help of 10,000 volunteer dogs over the course of 10 years to learn more about how to do it better. Pooches must be US-based (sorry, Canuck Canines, if you want to get involved visit Darwin’s Ark who are heading up the Canadian version of this study) but beyond that, there are no other qualifiers. That means that if you’re thinking your pooch may not measure up, think again. They’re accepting dogs of every age and breed. Small dogs, large dogs, medium-sized dogs and male or female. Not neutered? Not a problem. Spayed or neutered is not part of the criterion for participation. Neither is their level of health. Whether your pooch is in the prime of his life or struggling a little, he’s a candidate for this all-inclusive study. Related: Why Senior Dog Wellness Checkups are Important This project has been building over a number of years with an official launch announced in November 2019. That said, they are still building their roster of volunteers and are still accepting nominations from pet parents who may be interested in having their dog take part. Simply log on to www.dogagingproject.org and complete the application form for your chosen pooch (only one dog per household can be nominated). This secure user portal will ask for comprehensive information on your pet’s health and lifestyle as well as veterinary medical records to ensure they’re working with the most accurate data available. Ultimately you will also need to provide a stool sample to help ascertain gut health and DNA swab from your dog’s mouth which will help with the genome portion of this study down the line. What is expected of you? Over the 10-year course of the study, you will be expected to be a good pet parent and visit your veterinarian for a wellness exam each year. There may be follow-up surveys throughout the study that ask you to provide updates on your pet’s diet, current health and behaviors. You may also be required to conduct easy cognitive or exercise tasks with your pooch and report back to the study team. There will be two sub-sets of dogs that are monitored more closely. One involves 1,000 pooches who may require a little extra work from your veterinarian. The collection of blood, stool, urine, saliva and hair samples (collection kit provided by the project) will be requested. The second sub-set will be made up of just 500 dogs and involve a test drug (see details below). Now if you’re already doing the math and envisioning sky-high vet bills, the project recognizes this could be an issue for some owners and is developing a program to help offset those costs. According to Daniel Promislow who is an expert in the biology of aging and a Professor of Pathology at the University of Washington School of Medicine, you as the pet parent will have become what they like to call a “Dog Aging Project citizen scientist”. Even your little buddy gets his own title as a member of the Dog Aging Project pack. Cute, right? So, while pet health studies are quite literally de rigueur these days, its the sheer volume of test subjects involved in this particular one that makes it so unique. Tracking 10,000 of our four-legged buddies (hey, even four legs isn’t mandatory) over the course of a decade allows researchers to capture sizeable quantities of data that can be analyzed throughout the process for patterns and red flags to determine how a dog’s genes, habits and environmental influences determine how well he ages. According to the researchers, it’s not just about extending your dog’s lifespan but his healthspan – which is that period of life spent free from disease. My guess is that with all the research fire-power being poured into this project, the data gathered is also targeting how to help improve the healthspan of humans. Which makes sense. I mean, if we’re living in the same environment, it would be foolish not to look for a correlation. Right? Related: How to Keep Your Senior Dog Active And because this is all voluntary, its simply business as usual for you and Rover. You continue with your regular routine, visit your usual veterinarian throughout the year and feed him his favorite foods and treats. But at the other end, there will be more than 40 research professionals in the fields of veterinary medicine, health and longevity involved in this research. As Matt Kaeberlein, another Professor of Pathology at the University of Washington School of Medicine states, “Aging is the major cause of the most common diseases, like cancer and heart problems. Dogs age more rapidly than people do and get many of our same diseases of aging, including cognitive decline. They also share our living environment and have a diverse genetic makeup. This project will contribute broadly to knowledge about aging in dogs and in people.” Yes, just as I thought! Surprising to me is that there are currently no standard measures to track the prognosis of our best buddies as they age and become sick. According to Dr. Kate Creevy, Chief Veterinary Officer for the project, “When we see a dog, we’ll say, ‘Wow, that dogs looks really good for his age,’ or ‘That dog doesn’t look so good for her age,’ but we can’t easily put that into any kind of objective description.” That’s all about to change because this is where the 10,000 Dog Aging Project is determined to make a difference. Specifically, the research teams are looking to establish the following four tools: Creation of Aging Metrics: Tests will be developed that can actually measure each dog’s changes in physical function as he ages. So, you have a base of comparison for other dogs of same or similar breeds living in same or similar environments.Tracking Genetic Impacts: Health and behavioral measurements will be integrated with the dog’s genetic make-up to monitor how specific breeds age – data that can be applied in comprehensive genome-wide association studies.Predicting the Biology of Aging: Researchers will be looking for molecular predictors that can flag issues such as disease, anticipated rate of decline or your pet’s longevity.Studying the Impact of Medication Intervention: About 500 middle-aged dogs will be part of a trial to assess the effects of rapamycin on cognition, heart function, healthspan, and lifespan. Now, this last tool may seem controversial to some. Of the 10,000 participants, approximately 500 of the middle-aged, larger breeds (40-pounds and over) will be asked if they would participate in a clinical trial of rapamycin. Its currently a drug taken by humans to prevent the rejection of transplanted kidneys and according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, its an “…immunomodulatory agent and cancer chemotherapeutic drug used in human medicine. Low doses of the drug have been shown to extend the lifespan of mice along with conferring other age-related benefits.” So, these 500 will be part of a double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial of rapamycin for three years after which their health will be followed for an additional two years. Related: University of Washington to Study New Dog Anti-Aging Drug Apparently, rapamycin has already been used in a small safety study on dogs and it presented no dangerous side effects. For the purposes of this particular project, the drug is to be administered by veterinary specialists located near the participating dog. So, under controlled circumstances and with appropriate monitoring by a medical professional. Through all the articles I’ve read, it’s still not clear what it would take for a dog to qualify as a candidate for this type of drug. If it’s used specifically with an eye toward prolonging life, it may be a pet that is considered older or perhaps his genetics suggest a propensity toward certain ailments such as cancer. Ultimately, he’s your pet so you get to make the decision on whether you want him to be a candidate for this sub-set. The 10,000 Dog Aging Project is a long-term commitment that many may not be up for. But for those that are, it’s a chance to have your pooch’s life benefit the healthy aging of future generations of dogs. Just something to think about.

Nationwide Voluntary Recall Of Pet Seizure Medications

A nationwide recall has been issued for multiple C.O. Truxton veterinary anticonvulsant, anti-seizure, and antidepressant medications for pets. Pharmaceutical and medical supplies company C.O. Truxton has announced they are expanding the voluntary recall they issued on April 21, 2017 to now include all products that were repackaged into a Truxton Incorporated label, and the recall affect veterinarians and physicians nationwide. C.O. Truxton produces and packages anticonvulsants, anti-seizures, and antidepressant medicines for pets nationwide, and originally recalled amitriptyline and phenobarbital drugs because of a label mix-up error in April. They’ve just announced they are expanding that recall, to include all the products that are packaged with their Truxton Incorporated Labels. Related: University of Washington To Study New Dog Anti-Aging Drug The company says they have not received any complaints from their recalled products, but are being abundantly cautious about recalling any product that could be a problem. Veterinarians use amitriptyline as an antidepressant, while they use phenobarbital as a sedative and/or anticonvulsant in pets. Accidental exposure or overdose of phenobarbital could lead to renal failure, cardiogenic shock, coma or death in both humans and animals. Accidental exposure or overdose of amitriptyline can cause a multitude of symptoms, including uneven heartbeats, confusion, agitation, hallucinations, seizures, fainting, muscle stiffness or hot/cold sensations in both humans and animals. Related: 6 Frequently Asked Questions About Canine Osteoarthritis The recall affects physicians and veterinarians nationwide, and Truxton is notifying any customers on record who purchased the recalled items. The company will offer full credit refunds and full replacement of any recalled product. If you have concerns about adverse reactions with any of these products, the Federal Drug Administration recommends reporting to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting Program. You can do so online, by fax (1-800-FDA-0178) or regular mail.You can find information about the affected packages at the FDA’s recall page.

Team of Iditarod Sled Dogs Test Positive For Opioid Drug Use

For the first time ever, canine contestants in the famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race have been identified as testing positive for drug use. Several dogs registered for the most famous sled dog race in the world have tested positive for use of a prohibited drug, according to a statement given by the governing board of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. It’s a first for the race, with the dogs testing positive for Tramadol, an opioid pain reliever. Related: Family Dog Digs up $85K Worth of Heroin in Oregon Backyard The team was tested six hours after they finished the almost 1000-mile race in Nome, Alaska, and officials estimated that the drugs were possibly used between 15 hours before the test to right up to the beginning. Tramadol is prohibited, though the governing board officials say that they could not legally prove intent on the part of the musher, who they refuse to name. Even several board members don’t know the name of the musher, though on board member, Aaron Burmeister, said that only the first 20 teams to reach the finish line are tested. Burmeister said that this is not a good situation, and particularly because withholding the musher’s name and disciplinary actions makes the entire group of participants seem possibly guilty. Burmeister also is an Iditarod musher, and hopes that the guilty leader steps forward to hopefully put a positive light to this issue. Because the board cannot prove that the drug was used with malintent, new rulings for canine drug use came out this month saying that mushers were responsible for their dogs’ results unless they could unequivocally prove that the results were due to something out of their control. Related: University of Washington To Study New Dog Anti-Aging Drug There’s much speculation about the drug use among mushers, as some even believe that competitors may have given the team dogs the drugs. Mushers have their dogs’ food flown to checkpoints where it sits for up to two weeks ahead of time, and someone could have reached it. That said, Burmeister says that it doesn’t make sense for one competitor to give another a performance-enhancing drug. He hopes that people watching the race do not think that this is a pervasive issue, as it’s the first time it’s ever happened in the history of the race.

Is Melatonin Safe For Dogs?

Melatonin is an important hormone, which is naturally produced in the pineal gland of the brain. It has numerous beneficial aspects, such as it can help regulate mood, sleep cycles, and reproduction. However, its production is directly stimulated by darkness, while it is inhibited by light. What does this mean? It means that both dogs and humans will produce melatonin only when it is dark outside. As soon as the dawn arrives with the light of day, melatonin production ceases. This means that many people will supplement melatonin, or use it throughout the day for various reasons. Which brings up the question - is melatonin safe for dogs? Let’s find out. Is Melatonin Safe For Dogs? Melatonin is generally considered extremely safe for dogs, and it is almost always safe to give it to them - when it is used appropriately and under the guidance of a veterinarian. While melatonin is used in humans for the above-mentioned reasons, for dogs it is usually used for treating various skin conditions, anxiety, or sleep disorders. But even with all the positive aspects, it is necessary to first heed the advice of your veterinarian, before giving melatonin to your pet. This is because the proper dosage is important. The dose of melatonin administered depends on your pet’s size, weight, and overall health condition. Generally, veterinarians recommend starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it if necessary. Dosages typically range from 0.5 to 3 milligrams per dog, but this can vary. Mistake the dosage, and you risk a lot of side effects, like digestive upset, lethargy, and changes in mood or behavior.What is more, melatonin might not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions or those taking other medications. Because of this, it is always crucial to seek professional advice before administering any supplements or medications to your pet. Ignoring this can cause a lot of harm.

How Acupuncture Can Help Cats and Dogs

Acupuncture is a part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and it can be used on people and pets to address a range of conditions. By balancing the flow of energy in the body, this technique can help reduce or resolve symptoms in a natural way.Many people have used acupuncture for their pets and achieved incredible results. But, like anything else, it might not be right for all pets or all conditions. And working with a qualified veterinarian who’s certified in pet acupuncture is key.Read on to learn more about acupuncture for cats and dogs.What Is Acupuncture for Dogs and Cats?In acupuncture, fine needles are placed in the skin on certain points throughout the body, referred to as acupuncture points or acupoints, in order to do things like restore energetic balance, reduce pain and inflammation, and support healthy blood flow. Based on your pet’s symptoms and condition, an acupuncturist will know where to insert the needles to get positive results.The needles shouldn’t cause any discomfort for your pet. In fact, pet parents often state that their animals become relaxed during their acupuncture sessions.Types of Pet AcupunctureThere are a few types of pet acupuncture, and an acupuncturist will determine which is best for your dog or cat.Dry needle acupuncture is the type of acupuncture that you’re likely familiar with. However, instead of using needles, acupuncturists can simply apply pressure to specific points on a pet’s body to support healing—this is known as acupressure.Other options include electroacupuncture, which combines the use of needles with an electric current, and laser acupuncture, which uses a cold laser to stimulate acupuncture points. The Benefits of Acupuncture for PetsAcupuncture can provide a host of benefits to pets when done correctly and by the right professional. As always, it’s wise to discuss this healing technique with your veterinarian to figure out if it’s appropriate for your canine or feline. And it’s important to discuss the potential risks or drawbacks before deciding if you want to try it.Some of the conditions that may be treated with the help of acupuncture include:Arthritis and joint problemsAcupuncture can be used to help relieve discomfort and pain associated with various conditions. If your pet has been diagnosed with arthritis or hip dysplasia, if they’ve been injured and are dealing with pain, or even if they’re having pain after a procedure, acupuncture might be a good treatment for reducing inflammation and improving mobility.In addition to acupuncture treatments, you can also help your pet feel more comfortable by using a heated bed like the K&H Thermo-Snuggle Cup Heated Cat Bed, which can also work well for small dogs. This product is machine washable and features soft fleece that your companion will love snuggling into. Its circular shape ensures your furry friend will feel nice and secure. Plus, you can use the removable heater to help alleviate discomfort and keep them warm while they relax or nap. 

Holiday Gifts for Dogs to Include Them in the Fun

It’s the gift giving season, and you’re thinking about all of the people you’ll buy presents for, but why not also add your canine companion to the list? With so many great products on the market, you can find the ideal gift for your dog so they can participate in the opening of presents with everyone they love. Here are some tips to help you find something that your pooch will get excited over.

A Six-legged Abandoned Dog Has Surgery to Remove Extra Limbs

A six-legged cocker spaniel found abandoned in a supermarket parking lot in Wales has had surgery to remove her extra limbs. The pooch was named Ariel, after the Little Mermaid, because her extra limbs were fused together, resembling a mermaid’s tail. Greenacres Rescue, a non-profit group from Haverfordwest in Pembrokeshire, Wales, took Ariel in, arranged her surgery, and found her a foster family.  Ariel, who was born with multiple birth defects, was operated on at Langford Vets Small Animal Referral Hospital. Surgeon Aaron Lutchman performed the surgery and managed to save all four limbs amid fears that one hind leg might have to be amputated. “She’s doing really well, she’s bounced back and she’s a happy little dog and we’re hoping she’s going to go on to lead a fabulous little life,” said Lutchman. “She’s got her own little character and even though she’s had a tough start in life she really has done well to come through this as she has… if we can do what we can to help then that’s just absolutely brilliant.” According to Mikey Lawlor, founder and manager of Greenacres Rescue, Ariel was skinny and distressed when she was rescued. “The vet who initially assessed Ariel noted that, in addition to her two surplus back legs, she also had an additional vulva,” said Lawlor. A CT scan later revealed that Ariel was born with only one kidney, which increased the complexity of the medical treatment she required. Unfortunately, the pup’s pelvis never formed properly because she had two hip joints on one side of the body. As a result, Ariel’s normal hind leg had no muscle tone, so there was a chance that that leg had to be amputated as well. “Thankfully, that wasn’t the case though as it’s shown signs of having strengthened a lot in recent months,” Lawlor added.Ariel is recovering nicely after her surgery, having lots of love and fuss from the nursing team. Now that the surgery is behind her, everyone is hoping that she’ll have an easy and quick recovery.“There were two procedures which lasted about two hours, but both went fine. The next day she was up, walking around and eating and drinking.”“Now we just need to keep our fingers crossed she doesn’t get any infections, but she really is in the best of hands,” added Lawlor according to BBC. The brave pooch was discharged over the weekend and has already returned home to her foster family in Wales. According to her vet, Ariel has to rest for the next two weeks to recover completely. The founder of Greenacres Rescue hopes that the organization will be able to find a forever home for Ariel after she completes physiotherapy and recovery. “The response we had to Ariel’s story so far, including calls and emails from as far away as New York and Australia, has been incredible - so I’ve no doubt she’ll be snapped up,” said Lawlor.“I just can’t say enough of a thank you to everyone who’s contributed to helping her.” The organization raised around $19,000 for Ariel’s life-changing surgery thanks to donations from people all over the world.“Ariel was a complicated little dog whose care required close collaboration across a number of our specialist teams, including orthopedics, soft tissue surgery, anesthesia, and radiology,” said Vicki Black, the director of Langford Vets’ Hospital. “As part of the University of Bristol, we are a center committed to career-long learning and are proud to innovate and treat pets like Ariel. We are delighted such a lovely animal has recovered well from her surgery.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Animal Shelter Has Clever Way to Fundraise for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is for celebrating love, but for some, it can be a reminder of failed relationships. If you’re still feeling bitter towards an ex, you can now take that resentment and transform it into something positive, thanks to a clever fundraiser being run by an animal shelter in New Jersey.“Neuter Your Ex” and Help Stray Cats This Valentine’s Day Homeward Bound Pet Adoption Center in Blackwood, NJ has come up with a funny way to raise much-needed funds for stray cats this Valentine’s Day. The campaign is called Neuter Your Ex for Valentine’s Day, and its slogan is “Because some things shouldn’t breed.”It’s simple: when you donate $50 to Homeward Bound, they’ll name a feral cat after your ex and then neuter or spay the kitty before releasing them back to their outdoor colony. If you’re familiar with trap-neuter-return, also known as TNR, then you already know how this works—cats who aren’t adoptable are allowed to live out their lives outdoors, but because they’ve been neutered or spayed, they can’t reproduce and, therefore, won’t contribute to the overpopulation problem.A Big Success So FarThis campaign is already a hit. Multiple news outlets have reported on it, so word has spread far and wide. The shelter states that they’ve received a lot of names (they’ve gotten so many that it will take months to use all of them). And donations have come from around the United States and other countries, such as the United Kingdom and Australia. Want to Help? Here’s HowIf you want to make a donation towards this worthy cause, you can fill out the form here, provide your ex’s first name or a nickname, and make a one-time or monthly payment to support the shelter’s TNR efforts. If you have questions, you can reach out to Homeward Bound Pet Adoption Center. Their recent Instagram post provides answers to some frequently asked questions about the campaign, so you can check that out as well.  Keep an eye on Homeward Bound’s Instagram to see photos of the cats that end up benefiting from this Valentine’s Day fundraiser.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Dog Rescued After Surviving a 60-foot Fall from Michigan Cliff

A family’s trip to one of Michigan’s most beautiful landmarks almost ended tragically, when their dog took a tumble from a cliff. The adventurous dog, named Dancer, was rescued after surviving a 60-foot fall from a cliff and spending a freezing night alone in the wilderness. The three-year-old pooch had escaped her leash and plunged off a steep cliff near Miners Castle, in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore area in Munising, Michigan. The lakeshore runs alongside Lake Superior and is located in Michigan’s Upper Penninsula. The National Park Service (NPS) shared in a news release that Dancer fell 60 feet off a cliff to a ledge below. The dog’s owners spent hours searching the area but were unable to find the dog and were convinced that she didn’t survive the fall. Rangers at the nearby Pictured Rocks Park received a message about the lost pooch and decided to enlist the help of Superior High Angle Rescue Professionals (SHARP), a local rope rescue team, to search for the dog. The following morning SHARP members Erik Olsen, Westley Shaffer, and Tyler Davis went to the area and were able to find Dancer, who was cold, but alive. “Though she has spent the night trying to keep warm, she was excited to see the rescuers,” the service wrote. Dancer, who was described as a “professional troublemaker” didn’t have any reported injuries. The lucky pooch has since been reunited with her family and is recovering well after spending the night alone in the wilderness. The park service noted that Dancer was extremely lucky and although her story has a happy ending, her fall should serve as a reminder to everyone that areas of Pictured Rocks can get very cold and extremely slippery.“With this year’s mild start to winter, many areas of Pictured Rocks are more accessible than they are most years,” Chief Ranger Joe Hughes explained. “It is still important to remember to be prepared for slippery, cold conditions that can change quickly.”Whether you’re planning to hit a local trail with your pooch or are planning a trip to a state park, keep your pooch on a leash. Make sure that your pup’s harness is fitted properly so that your pooch can’t wiggle out of it, even if it tries. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Jolly Pets’ Annual “#WeGiveaJolly” Campaign Helps Shelter Dogs

Jolly Pets is the brand behind innovative, durable, and unique pet toys that are made entirely by domestic manufacturers – and every holiday season, they make an effort to spread joy, kindness, and love to all the pooches in need. This season, collaborating with 19 influencer ambassadors, they are once again heading their # WeGiveaJolly charitable campaign. Starting from November 28th until December 25th, Jolly Pets will donate a high-quality toy for every single purchase made. The toys will go to rescue dogs at 19 animal shelters in the USA, each represented by the influencer ambassadors, as announced by the marketing director of Jolly Pets, Louisa Casto. "The holiday season is a time for giving, and what better way to make a difference in the lives of shelter dogs than through the power of play and companionship. Jolly Pets understands the importance of providing joy and comfort to dogs awaiting their forever homes, and # WeGiveaJolly exemplifies our commitment to this cause," said Casto. "We believe that every dog deserves love, care, and happiness regardless of their circumstances. That's why we're excited to kick off our annual # WeGiveaJolly campaign, collaborating with compassionate ambassadors and animal shelters to make a real difference in a dog's life."This campaign will bring true holiday cheer across the country, especially to rescue dogs who are in dire need of some love and compassion.The ambassadors, shelters, and locations are as follows:@guidingeyesfortheblind for Guiding Eyes for the Blind, Yorktown Heights, NY@goodasgoldens for Canine Companions, Sacramento, CA@Jack_the_Sleeper for Fort Worth North Animal Care and Adoption Campus, Haslet, TX@moosethegoldenretriever for Rescue Village, Russell Twp., OH@cheriethesurfdog for Frenchies United Rescue, Claremont, CA@incredibullstella for Animal Help Alliance, Las Vegas, NV@iheartpgracie for Animal Care Centers of NYC, New York, NY@2rockstarlabs for Crossed Paws Animal Shelter, Woodsfield, OH@koda.laredo for Hoosier Bulldog Rescue, Indianapolis, IN@posies_pocketful_of_praise for Pickens Humane Society, Liberty, SC@ziggy_loving_life for Home Fur Good Animal Rescue, Phoenix, AR@maligator_apollo for PAWS Chicago, Chicago, IL@remingtonpup for Great Pyrenees Rescue Society, Spring, TX@gvl_golden_girls for Dog Squad, Greer, SC@enzo.and.bella for Friends of Detroit Animal Care & Control, Northville, MI@benny.n.lola for Humane Society Silicon Valley, Milpitas, CA@leuleu_theblue for the Pet Alliance Sanford Shelter, Orlando, FL@the.hero.dogs for Hot Mess Pooches, Homer, IL@fosterkittenhq for The Animal Welfare League of Arlington, Arlington, VA"By participating in Jolly Pets # WeGiveaJolly campaign, our customers are not only providing joy to their own pets but also extending that joy to shelter dogs waiting for a loving home. It's a small act of kindness that can profoundly impact these dogs' lives," Casto said. "We encourage using the hashtag # WeGiveaJolly on social media to encourage friends and family to participate in this heartwarming initiative."To learn more about the # WeGiveaJolly campaign and to shop for Jolly Pets' durable and innovative pet toys, visit  https://jollypets.com/pages/wegiveajolly-annual-toy-drive.

The Season of Giving Begins With A Leap

We're excited to announce a special initiative in celebration of the season of thankfulness and November's Senior Pet Adoption Month. Starting today, Leap Years is offering a free bottle of its daily chewable supplement to anyone who adopts a senior dog (over 5 years old) from a shelter or rescue. All you need is proof of adoption, and while supplies last, your senior pup can start benefiting from Leap Years' formula that has already changed the lives of dogs across the country.

Scientists May Have Found a Better Way To Trim a Cat’s Nails

Trimming a cat’s nails is often a daunting affair for everyone involved. Most cats should have their nails trimmed every two to three weeks. Failing to do so leaves you and your furniture at the mercy of your kitty’s sharp claws.Specially designed to be smaller, cat nail clippers or scissors are commonly used to trim a cat’s nails, but they can be difficult to handle, especially if your cat doesn’t want to cooperate or is anxious. Additionally, there’s always a risk that you’ll end up scratched, bitten, and bleeding.This is where science can come in handy! Researchers from the University of California, Davis, are working with Sacramento SPCA to make nail trimming less stressful for cats and their owners. Jennifer Link, a Ph.D. student at the University of California, Davis, Animal Welfare Epi Lab, is working on a multistep protocol designed to desensitize the cats to handling and nail clipping. In mid-July, Link started to visit the Sacramento shelter five days a week for two hours to work on socializing rescued and surrendered cats to help them adjust to new people, situations, and environments. By the end of September, she had worked with more than 70 cats. “When people hear that I study cats, many ask if I can help them with nail trims,” said Link. According to Dan Marple, the animal welfare manager at the Sacramento Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, this research is vital to staff, donors, and volunteers because it can reduce the stress caused by nail trimming.“Any new protocols that increase the comfort and safe handling of the cats in our care will also improve their overall well-being and adoptability,” he added. Link’s research is promising because it incorporates cooperative care. This means that cats are allowed to decide how much they want to interact with the handler during the training process. Depending on their willingness to participate, the cats go through one of three scenarios with Link: a handling-only training protocol, a handling and nail-trimming protocol, or a control with no training and only a nail trim. Each interaction is recorded to be analyzed later. On the days when Link visits the shelter, the cats are removed from their cages and brought to a quiet room where Link is waiting, with a mat laid out before her. If a cat puts their front paws on the mat, they are given treats and cuddles. The idea is for cats to learn that Link interacts with them only when they put their paws on the mat. Once the cat leans this, Link proceeds with training protocols. Slowly, Link touches the cat’s legs, then the paws, and then the paws are gently squeezed. If the cat doesn’t resist, one nail is trimmed. The protocol builds on past steps and works up. When a cat goes through all the steps, they get a nail trim. If a cat doesn’t place their paws on the mat or rejects any step, Link stops the handling.“I think with cooperative care, it does seem to almost improve their trust in me,” Link explained. “They are more comfortable if we let them decide.”This research could make nail trimming at home much more comfortable for the cats and their owners. It can also decrease the number of visits to veterinary hospitals and clinics, where owners often seek help trimming their cats’ nails. The researchers still need to analyze the video sessions to finalize the protocol. And if the protocol is deemed helpful, they will share it with other shelters for more data.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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Why Are Labradors Fat? Scientists Have the Answer

The friendly, playful, and trainable Labrador is one of the most popular dog breeds around the world. But, few canines are as obsessed with food as Labrador retrievers - and now scientists think they have discovered why. According to new research, a quarter of labs are predisposed to obesity due to a genetic mutation.Approximately 25 percent of Labradors face a double-whammy of burning fewer calories and feeling hungry all the time because of an anomaly. Scientists explain that this obesity-causing combination means dog owners must be strict when feeding and exercising their labs to keep them fit.The mutation is found in the gene called POMC, which plays an important role in energy use and hunger, and affects how dogs behave around food. Around 25 percent of Labradors and 66 percent of flat-coated retrievers are affected by POMC mutation, which puts these dogs at risk of obesity and causes increased interest in food.Researchers found that although these dogs don’t need to eat more to feel full, they are hungrier in between meals. The study also showed that dogs with the POMC mutation use around 25 percent less energy when resting than dogs without it. As a result, these pooches don’t need to eat as many calories to maintain a healthy weight. “We found that a mutation in the POMC gene seems to make dogs hungrier. Affected dogs tend to overeat because they get hungry between meals more quickly than dogs without the mutation,” said Dr. Eleanor Raffan, a researcher in the University of Cambridge’s Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience who led the study. “All owners of Labradors and flat-coated retrievers need to watch what they’re feeding these highly food-motivated dogs to keep them a healthy weight. But dogs with this genetic mutation face a double whammy: they not only want to eat more, but also need fewer calories because they’re not burning them off as fast,” she added.The study found that the POMC mutation alters a pathway in dogs’ brains associated with body weight regulation. The mutated genes trigger the starvation signal that sends a message to the body to increase food intake and conserve energy.The study involved 87 adult pet Labradors, all at a healthy weight or moderately obese. The dogs were subjected to several tests, including ‘the sausage in the box’ test. The dogs were first given a can of wet dog food every 20 minutes until they couldn’t eat any more. All labs eat huge amounts of food, but what’s interesting is that dogs with POMC didn’t eat more food than the dogs without it.On a different day, all dogs were given the same breakfast. Three hours later they were offered a sausage in a box made of clear plastic and a perforated lid, so the dogs could see and smell the sausage but not eat it.Scientists discovered that labs with POMC mutation tried harder to get the sausage than the dogs without it, showing greater hunger. In another test, the dogs were allowed to sleep in a special chamber that measured the gases they breathed out. This test showed that labs with POMC mutation burn 25 percent fewer calories than dogs without it. According to researchers, people are often rude to owners of fat dogs, criticizing them for not feeding and exercising their dogs properly. However, this study has shown that labs with POMC are trying to increase their energy intake by looking for food all the time. Keeping these dogs slim is challenging, but possible. Spreading out daily food rations, by using puzzle feeders to slow down feeding or scattering the food around the yard so it takes longer to eat are ways owners can keep their Labradors distracted from constant hunger. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Study Finds Pet Parents Care More About Their Dogs Than Their Cats

Pet parents tend to place themselves into one of two categories. You can either be a dog person or a cat person - there’s nothing in between. This may come as a shock to all cat lovers, but scientists have found that dog owners care more for their dogs than cat owners care for their cats. At least that’s the case with pet owners across Denmark, Austria, and the United Kingdom.Although these findings have been observed in older studies, veterinary scientists from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, wanted to find out whether cultural factors had any effect on the results. Their results were first published in the Journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science. “We and others have found that people are willing to spend much less on their cats than on their dogs,” said Peter Sandøe, professor at the University of Copenhagen and the study’s lead author. “We wanted to find out whether cats could eventually end up having the same high status as dogs do today.”The scientists surveyed 2,117 pet owners, including 844 dog owners, 872 cat owners, and 401 owners who owned both cats and dogs. Participants were asked questions about their pets’ health insurance, their willingness to pay for life-saving medical treatment, and other questions designed to determine how much owners care for their pets. Pet owners from all three countries had a higher attachment score for dogs than for cats. Dog owners were more likely to buy insurance for their dogs, and said they were willing to spend more for life-saving treatment for their dogs. However, the results of the study varied greatly across the countries. The differences were most noticeable in Denmark, where 41% of dog owners said they were willing to pay a high cost of life-saving medical treatment for their dogs compared to 26% of cat owners. On the other hand, the United Kingdom’s results were in favor of dogs, but only slightly. Around 34% of dog owners in the UK said they would pay more for their dogs’ medical treatment compared to 28% of cat owners. According to scientists, such a slight difference isn’t statistically significant. ‘While people care more about their dogs than their cats in all countries, the degree of difference varied dramatically between countries,” said Sandøe. The researchers originally hypothesized that people in Denmark might be more unaccustomed with cats living indoors than people living in Austria and the United Kingdom since Denmark became urbanized much later than these two countries. Thanks to a much more recent rural history, cats in Denmark might be seen as just another farm animal.According to researchers, several studies hypothesize that when cats are more likely to spend time indoors, they tend to become much closer to their owners, who consequently care more about them. This was confirmed by studies in the U.S. and Mexico, where many cats are indoors-only felines.So it comes as no surprise that in Denmark, where just one out of five cats is kept strictly indoors and many have outdoor access, most pet owners care less about cats. Researchers think that pet owners’ level of care for their pets may depend on the level of interaction and dependence, as well as other factors. "There seems to be no natural limit to how much people will end up caring about their cats compared to their dogs,” said Sandøe. “The British are often portrayed as a nation of cat lovers, which is certainly confirmed by our study. The Danes have a long way to go, but they may eventually get there.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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.

Owner Who Never Lost Hope Reunites with a Missing Dog After 10 Years

An owner’s undying hope and commitment to keeping their dog’s microchip up to date resulted in a happy reunion 10 years after the dog went missing. A Florida family lost their cockapoo, named Cleo, way back in 2014 when the mischievous pooch ran away from home. Despite never hearing anything about Cleo again, the owner Luisa, kept the microchip information up to date in hopes of getting reunited with her beloved pooch.After so many years, most owners would have lost hope of ever seeing their furry companion again but Cleo’s family still had faith, even after they moved to Miami. Finally, all those years of unwavering hope and commitment paid off when Cleo arrived at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.The organization shared in a post that the dog recently arrived at the shelter as a stray. The staff had little hope that the dog was microchipped but scanned it nonetheless. Imagine their surprise when they discovered a microchip filled with up-to-date contact information.“We were hoping for a happy ending and for her to be reunited with her owners, but we did not foresee the joy her story brought,” the organization said on Facebook.The information on the pup’s microchip led the shelter’s staff to Luisa, who was in disbelief when they called because Cleo had been missing, ever since he ran away 10 years ago! “They never lost hope and continued to update her microchip in the small hope that they would be reunited, even after they moved to Miami.”The family made a five-hour trip from Miami to Tampa Bay to reclaim their beloved pooch. The shelter shared pictures of the emotional reunion, featuring a smiling Cleo. “This shows the power and importance of the microchip and never losing hope,” the post concluded.A microchip is a small transponder that carries a unique identification number. That identification number is entered into a database that contains contact information pet owners provide when registering their pet or when updating the information, like in Cleo’s case. Although microchips don’t possess GPS or tracking abilities they are still considered one of the best ways for owners to get reunited with a lost pet. In addition to microchipping your pet, they can also wear a collar with ID tags that include your current contact information.Microchipping is a simple and cheap procedure with minimal risks for your pet. If you haven’t microchipped your pup, do it now, and make sure the microchip is always registered with up-to-date information. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?

Final Thoughts - Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?Excessive barking can be frustrating and, if left unaddressed, can put you, as the owner, in a difficult situation. In some places, this can lead to fines or even eviction due to noise complaints. Unfortunately, the process of training a dog to stop barking isn’t one that is usually solved overnight – but it can be done! While you might have seen it recommended to use an “anti-bark” muzzle to stop your dog’s barking, it is not recommended for anything more than a 10 to 15-minute quick fix. Not only does it not teach your dog not to bark in the future, but the muzzle's design could create a dangerous situation. Instead, start by identifying the cause. Is your dog overly excited? Is there a trigger that makes them feel fearful and stressed? Are they trying to protect you when someone walks onto your property? Knowing the trigger will help you not only stop it but also manage your dog’s barking in the short term. If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact a professional trainer or certified behaviorist to offer guidance and direction. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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