Cost-Cutting Tips and Tricks for Aquarium Enthusiasts

by Summer Davis

Published: March 15th, 2016

cost cutting tips and tricks for aquarium enthusiasts

We all love tips and tricks that’ll save us money. That’s why we put together a few tricks for spending less cash when it comes to your fish aquarium.

When first starting out in the aquarium hobby, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the amount of products that are available on the market. It’s also easy to spend half of your paycheck, and still not feel like you have everything you need. There are a few tricks that experienced aquarists use to cut down on the amount of money spent, especially if you’re keeping multiple tanks at once.

Filters

Sponge filters are one way to cut down on the cost of filtering your tank. A sponge filter is designed to be a biological filter that will pick up the mulm, debris, and waste in the water. Sponge filters, depending on the type, size, and quality, will cost between $5 and $25. Sponge filters are readily available through most major aquatic supply retailers, and are also relatively easy to make on your own using a piece of PVC pipe, sponge, and a ceramic tile. All sponge filters are run on air, and you may be thinking about the expense of getting multiple air pumps, however there are industrial pumps that are available and will run many sponge filters using airline tubing and gang valves.

Fish Food

Another way to cut down on costs is to find your own fish foods. Most fish will enjoy earthworms, flies, or mosquito larvae, all of which can usually be found no further than your own backyard. Take care when coming in contact with all bugs and creepy crawlies, but particularly with mosquito larvae. Make sure there’s no stagnant water nearby to where you, or your children and pets are, due to risks of west Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases.

Many fish keepers also keep cultures of various types of foods, including things such as white worms, grindal worms, black worms, and fruit fly larvae. Hatching your own baby brine shrimp is also common practice in the hobby, especially for those who have fry (baby fish) in their tanks.

Lighting

Lighting is typically on of the more expensive costs up front when setting up a new tank. Fixtures can vary in price, but easily reach hundreds of dollars, especially if they have different light settings, colors, etc. A cheap and effective way to cut back on lighting costs is to use a simple shop light fixture that can be found at any hardware store. There are even plant specific bulbs for these fixtures, for those who are growing live plants. Another option is an LED flood light, which not only is inexpensive but uses little power.

Substrate

Substrate is another area where costs can be trimmed. There are a lot of inexpensive options when it comes to what lays on the bottom of your tank. Sand is a popular choice, and a quick trip to the local hardware store can supply you with everything that you need. Children’s play sand, pool filter sand, and blasting sand will all work wonderfully for tanks; just be sure to rinse them first. Another option is the same stuff that mechanics use to soak up spills in garages. Some call it kitty litter, others call it oil-dri, but it is essentially a clay based rock looking substrate.

Tank Decor

Decor within a tank is also easy to get for a low price. Terra cotta flower pots (whole or cut in half), PVC pipe pieces, and wood and rock found outside all make wonderful additions to your tank, without breaking the bank. Most decor, especially natural looking, can be found just be searching in the woods or around a local river, lake, or pond. It is important with both wood, and rocks, to dry them thoroughly, and then boil to remove any parasites that may be hiding. Wood should be dead, bark removed, and made of hard wood that will not rot in water. Rocks should be tested with vinegar to see if they will affect the water parameters within your tank.

Over all, many aquarium projects can be fun and easy to do yourself, and will save you some coin. Be creative, search the Internet and YouTube for ideas, and put your own spin on these projects. As long as all materials used are aquarium safe, your projects will last a long time and be rewarding.

Summer Davis is the mom of three kids, four dogs, and several tanks of fish. She boasts a passion for all animals, whether they are in the water or on land. This fish aficionado has kept many different species in her time, but holds a special place in her heart for wild and domestic bettas. When she’s not talking about fish, Summer “spins” her extra time as the director of a baton twirling organization.

Summer Davis

Summer Davis is the mom of three kids, four dogs, and several tanks of fish. She boasts a passion for all animals, whether they are in the water or on land. This fish aficionado has kept many different species in her time, but holds a special place in her heart for wild and domestic bettas. When she's not talking about fish, Summer "spins" her extra time as the director of a baton twirling organization."

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10 Essentials You Always Need in Your Fish Room

Ever wonder what the pros keep in their fish rooms? They’ve shared their tips and secrets with us, and we’re pleased to pass along the 10 essentials you always need in your fish room. Serious hobbyists go beyond having a tank or two; they have a whole fish room stocked with numerous tanks, many species, and a lot of supplies to make their lives easier. I polled several fish keepers who boast impressive fish rooms to see what they thought to be the most useful tools of the trade (beyond the typical nets, water changer, and other obvious fish-keeping basics). Here are their top 10 essentials you always need in your fish room: Plastic Tupperware containers: These are useful for just about everything from holding surprise fry, transporting fish, and growing live food cultures. In fact, just about any bucket or container you can think of comes in handy for fish keeping. From empty kitty litter buckets to Rubbermaid totes, anything that holds water is handy. Just make sure to clean them thoroughly before and after using them. Cotton balls, Q-tips, and tweezers: They aren’t just for bathrooms and personal hygiene! Q-tips and cotton balls are excellent to feed small worm cultures. And tweezers can be used to plant plants or remove things from the tank. Related: The Pros and Cons of CO2 in an Aquarium Turkey Baster: This kitchen staple can be used to remove waste from a bare bottom tank, to suck up fry in order to move them, or to feed larger fish. They are easily cleaned out and cheap to replace when needed. Mr. Clean Magic Erasers: These cleaning essentials are aquarium safe! They will remove algae from the tank glass, clean decorations, and keep your tanks sparking. Vinegar: A natural and eco-friendly cleaner that can be used to remove stubborn water deposits in empty tanks, on decorations, etc. Just rinse well after a vinegar scrub and it’s good to go back in the tank. Vinegar also works well when you clean the outside of the glass. Related: Cost-Cutting Tips and Tricks for Aquarium Enthusiasts Bleach: Another essential cleaner that can be used to clean tanks, sanitize equipment, and dip plants with stubborn algae on them. After using bleach, rinse well, and add the items back in the tank. (BTW, tips #5 and #6 are paired well with the items in You should also keep paper towels or clean rags around to use for cleanup, and for wiping off surfaces. Extra sponge filters or filter media in existing tanks: These make it quick and easy to set up a new tank, a quarantine tank, or fry tank, without worrying about cycling. Battery-powered air pumps and extra blankets: Should you have to suffer through a prolonged power outage, you’ll need these items to insulate the tank and keep the water oxygenated. Without them, you could lose your fish very quickly. Backup filter and heater: You should always have a backup filter and heater in the event of equipment failure, especially during a time when you cannot get one immediately. Having a spare is simple peace of mind. Found natural décor: Any rocks or wood you find in your adventures outside. You never know when you may decide to set up a new tank! Look for unusual shapes and sizes to spruce up your tanks with a natural flair. The fish love it!

Lake Victoria Cichlids

Lake Victoria Cichlids General Description There are over 2,000 different species of cichlid which have been described but it is estimated that there are thousands more yet to be discovered. Each species of Lake Victoria cichlid is unique but, for the most part, they are fairly aggressive fish. You should not plan to keep more than one male of any given species together in a tank, though some Lake Victoria cichlids can be kept with other aggressive or semi-aggressive species as long as there is enough space and the tank is decorated to break up sight lines and to provide territories for each fish. Each species of Lake Victoria cichlid is unique but, for the most part, they are fairly aggressive fish. Origins Cichlids can be found in all parts of the world including several endemic populations which are limited to a very relatively small area such as Lake Victoria, a lake located in Africa. It is estimated that there are about 200 different species of Lake Victoria Cichlids, many of which have developed special adaptations to thrive in their lake environment. Color In general, cichlids are some of the most vibrantly colored freshwater fishes in the world and Lake Victoria cichlids are no exception. Some Lake Victoria cichlids exhibit solid colorations in blue, green or yellow while others have multicolored patterns. Many Lake Victoria cichlids exhibit striping or colors bars that run horizontally or vertically as well as coloring on the fins. Maintenance and Care

6 Easy Hacks to Cure Fish Boredom

Just like any other pet, fish can become bored, too. And while they won’t chew up your shoes, keeping them occupied will ensure they live a healthier life.We buy toys for our dogs, cats, rats, rabbits, birds, and beyond. But how often does anyone get toys for their fish? Better yet, did you even know that fish could appreciate or need toys in their tank? Well, they do! However, that doesn’t mean that you can just go to a random pet store and expect them to carry toys for fish – it’s not such a popular choice as, say, dog toys. Of course, that doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to find anything to engage your fish and provide them entertainment in the aquarium. The key is to play off of what fish already do naturally. Adding things into their tanks that will occupy them and hone their natural instincts is a sure-fire way to have healthier happier fish that are more interesting to watch. OK, now that you know how awesome it is when you provide entertaining and engaging accessories for your fish, all that remains is to learn how to do it. Don’t worry, you don’t have to be crafty or spending big bucks to keep your fish lively and occupied – here are six easy hacks to cure your fishes’ boredom.Ping pong balls: s: Yup, ping pong balls are amazing for fish – no need to get them a miniature ping pong table and rackets. Plain old ping pong balls are a cheap and easy way to amuse your fish. Bettas particularly enjoy moving them around the tank, but just about any fish will be curious enough to check it out. It will stimulate their senses, and it’s a cool party trick to show people when they come to visit.Related: Cost-Cutting Tips and Tricks for Aquarium EnthusiastsTubes and tunnels: Many fish decorations incorporate these attributes to some degree, but you can improve on them by making your own.  PVC pipe from your local hardware store connected with a couple of elbows joints will make an interesting place for your fish to explore and hang out. You can weight it to the bottom of the tank and cover it with rocks and plants if you don’t like the look of the pipes. For something a little fancier, you can use terra cotta planters in the tank. Of course, it’s important to note that any tubes or tunnels you introduce to the aquarium should be wide enough for the fish to pass through safely, and made from smooth, fish-safe materials. You don’t want anything rough that your fish could snag their fins on!Mirrors: Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest fishy of them all? Fish aren’t vain, but mirrors are especially interesting to fish like bettas that live alone. They will be interested in their reflections and will flare, charge, and be curious about the “fish” on the other side. This provides much-needed enrichment for the solitary bettas, stimulates them to exercise their fins, and encourages natural territorial behaviors in a safe way. Still, you shouldn’t keep a mirror in the tank all the time, as it can become counterproductive – place it in the aquarium for a few minutes at a time as a form of exercise, and don’t leave it in for prolonged periods.Related: Take a Walk On the Wild Side of BettasShells, rocks, and sand: Nothing beats natural habitat vibes! Not only that mimicking their home is something that all fish like, but it also means that you don’t have to put in any special effort or look for any exotic items to keep your fishies occupied. Something you already have in your tank can be interesting to some species of fish. Cichlids, for example, will love rearranging their tank space (for fishy feng shui, we assume). They will dig holes, build hills, and create their own territory. Air stones and bubble wands: There are many benefits to air stones and bubble wands – these decorative accessories are not only for decor, but they also produce oxygen bubbles, which not only aerate the aquarium, but also lift certain layers to the top of the tank. In addition to making for a neat feature in your tank for you to look at, these accessories will also amuse your fish. Fish that enjoy stronger moving waters will hang out in the bubbles, and flit and flee through them. In fact, some species thrive in stronger aquarium currents and having something like an air stone or a bubble wand is a must – the list of popular choices includes Plecos, Red Neon Goby, Danios, and others.Food: Nothing motivates fish like food! If you ever want to make your aquatic pets enthusiastic about something, grab their food flakes and see them go bananas. It doesn’t come as a surprise, then, that finding ways to make their food slightly harder to acquire is an excellent way to stimulate your fish. Breaking away from the usual flakes and pellets and trying something like frozen bloodworms or brine shrimp will shake up their diets, and give them something to do. Live foods also help get your fish to hunt, which is a natural stimulant for them. Naturally, before opting for live foods or similar, be sure that your fish are omnivores or carnivores – because plant eaters such as Goldfish, Pleco, Oscars, and others certainly won’t find prey engaging.

Mbuna Cichlids

Mbuna Cichlids General Description The name Mbuna Cichlids is generally used to describe any of the rock-dwelling species of cichlids native to Lake Malawi. These cichlids are some of the most aggressive and territorial of all cichlid species so they generally need to be kept alone or in large tanks. For the best results you should pair a single male with multiple females rather than keeping more than one male in the same tank. You should also avoid keeping conspecifics (fish that look similar to each other) in the same tank. The name “Mbuna Cichlids” is generally used to describe any of the rock-dwelling species of cichlids native to Lake Malawi. Origins Lake Malawi is one of the two largest Great Rift Valley lakes located in Southeastern Africa. This lake is home to an estimated 1,000 species of cichlid, including over 100 species of Mbuna cichlid. Twelve genera of Lake Malawi cichlids are classified as Mbuna cichlids – these genera include the following: AbactochromisCyathochromisCynotilapiaGenyochromisGephyrochromisIodotropheusLabeotropheusLabidochromisMaylandiaMelanochromisPetrotilapiaPseudotropheusTropheops Color Mbuna cichlids are some of the most brightly colored freshwater fishes in the world, exhibiting a wide range of colors and patterns. These cichlids are unique in that both the males and females of each species exhibit bright colorations, not just the male. Maintenance and Care

New World Cichlids

New World Cichlids General Description New World Cichlids are some of the most diverse freshwater fish species in the world – they come in all shapes and sizes as well as various colors and patterns. Different species have different temperaments with some being very peaceful and great community fish while others are some of the most aggressive cichlid species in existence. Many South American cichlids are great community fish while certain Central American and North American species can be a little more aggressive. New World Cichlids are some of the most diverse freshwater fish species in the world. Origins The name New World Cichlids is often used to describe North American, South American and Central American cichlid species. Different species can be found in different bodies of water including large rivers like the Amazon as well as its tributaries. Color The colors and patterns of New World Cichlids are highly varied from one species to another. Discus fish are a type of New World Cichlid (specifically a South American cichlid) and they are some of the most colorful fish in the world, exhibiting a wide range of colors and patterns including iridescent colors. Other New World Cichlids are a little drabber in terms of color but still very vibrant fish. Maintenance and Care

Should My Dog Wear a Winter Coat?

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What Is Dog Folliculitis and How to Treat It?

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Cat Fanciers’ Association Reveals the Top 15 Pedigreed Cat Breeds

The world’s largest registry of purebred cats, the Cat Fanciers’ Association has revealed the top 15 most popular pedigreed cat breeds, based on registration data collected in 2023. Can you guess which felines made the cut?No list of the most popular cat breeds would be complete without the Bengal cat. Starting this list at number 15 is the Bengal. Originating in the United States, the Bengal cat is a hybrid created by crossing an Asian leopard cat with a domestic cat. Best known for their wild appearance and leopard-like coat, Bengals are playful and affectionate cats that make excellent companions for families with children.Coming in at number 14 is the Oriental Shorthair cat. Officially recognized by the CFA in 1977, the Oriental is a medium-sized cat with a long, elegant body, large ears, and almond-shaped eyes. Curious, intelligent, and friendly Orientals are a great choice for families looking for an affectionate, devoted, and friendly feline companion.At number 13 is the Norwegian forest cat. Large in size, the Norwegian forest cat has a robust body, long legs, and a thick, fluffy coat that keeps it warm in the cold weather. This smart, independent, and friendly cat is a great pick for busy people.The Russian blue cat takes the 12th place. The short, plush coat that varies in color from light silver to darker slate gray, and expressive green eyes are this breed’s signature traits. Russian blue cats are intelligent and active by nature and require mental and physical stimulation to thrive.Next on the list, at number 11 is the American shorthair cat. Known for its rounded and thick appearance, the American shorthair was recognized in 1906. This easygoing and friendly cat makes a loving companion for families looking for a low-maintenance cat.The hairless Sphynx takes the 10th place. Originating in Canada, this breed is best known for its lack of fur. Highly energetic, playful, and affectionate Sphynx gets along well with children and other pets and even makes a great therapy cat.At number 9 is the Siberian cat. Large in size and slow to mature, the Siberian cat can weigh up to 15 pounds and has a thick triple coat. Their dog-like personality and intelligent nature make them a great choice for people looking for an affectionate and playful furry companion. The Scottish fold takes the 8th place. Medium in size, the Scottish fold has a round head, round eyes, and small folded ears. Their sweet nature and cute looks make them a popular choice among cat fanciers.In 7th place is the Abyssinian cat, famous for its distinctive thicked tabby coat. Thanks to their playful, active, and intelligent natures, Abyssinians make great family pets.The British shorthair comes in 6th place. Described as the teddy bear of cat breeds both in looks and personality, the British shorthair is suited to just about any type of household. This time the Devon Rex takes the 5th place. Best known for its pixie-like appearance, the Devon Rex has an oddly shaped head, large eyes, and a wavy coat. The mischievous, playful, and loving Devon Rex makes a great pet for people looking for a cuddly and companionable cat.In the 4th place is the Exotic Shorthair cat. Developed as the shorthaired version of the Persian cat, the Exotic Shorthair has a round appearance and a charming personality. Next up, in the 3td place, is the Persian cat. Best known for its long coat, and round, flat face, the Persian cat has been one of the most popular cat breeds worldwide for many years. Their sweet-tempered, gentle, and adaptable nature makes them a great pet for people of all ages.In 2nd place is the Maine Coon. Known as the gentle giant, the Maine Coon is one of the largest breeds of domestic cats. Its massive size and friendly nature make it a great choice for people looking for a large, playful feline.And the 1st place goes to the Ragdoll cat. Large in size, the Ragdoll has a semi-long silky coat, tufted ears, blue eyes, and a bushy tail. Affectionate, docile, and friendly Ragdolls are ultimate lap cats and fantastic family pets.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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Clicker training is a popular form of positive reinforcement dog training that uses a small handheld device called a clicker to mark and reinforce desired behaviors. The clicker makes a distinct and consistent sound that signals to the dog that they have performed the desired behavior, followed by a reward such as a treat or praise. The idea is to associate the sound of the clicker with the reward, making it a powerful tool for communication between the owner and the dog.Now, if you want to try clicker training with your dog, you could be wondering at what age should you start. Very early on? Or as your puppy grows a bit older? Let’s find out.What Age Should You Start Clicker Training?Clicker training is versatile and can be used for teaching  basic commands, tricks, and even addressing behavioral issues. It is a humane and positive approach to training that fosters a strong bond between the owner and the dog. Clicker training can be started with dogs at a relatively young age, typically when they are around 8 weeks old. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands and behaviors from a young age, and clicker training can be a positive and effective method for teaching them.However, it's important to keep in mind that very young puppies have shorter attention spans, so training sessions should be kept short and fun. Focus on simple commands and behaviors, and use positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, in conjunction with the clicker.Consistency and patience are key when training puppies, and it's important to make the training sessions enjoyable for them. Stay consistent and maintain your composure and command. Even if the early training sessions last just a few minutes, keep it up. Of course, if you're unsure about how to start clicker training or have concerns about your puppy's readiness, consulting with a professional dog trainer or attending puppy training classes can be helpful. Always use positive reinforcement methods to create a positive and trusting relationship between you and your dog.Remember that clicker training requires patience and hard work to be successful. The idea is to associate the sound of the clicker with positive reinforcement, making it a powerful tool for communication between the owner and the dog.4 Things to Know About Clicker TrainingTo ensure your training sessions with a clicker are successful no matter when you start implementing them in your pet’s routine, you need to know the basics. These tips will help you optimize your process for maximum efficiency:Timing is KeyClicker training relies on precise timing. The click should occur at the exact moment your dog exhibits the desired behavior. This helps your dog make the connection between the behavior and the reward.Positive Reinforcement

Common Garden Plants That Can Send Your Dog into Cardiac Arrest

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

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Should My Cat Sleep in My Bed?

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Satanic partner or independent thinker... tonight the black cats rule!

How To Tell if a Dog Is Cold

You might think your dog feels fine in cold weather, thanks to their thick coat, but they can definitely feel the chill—and when they aren’t warm and comfortable, they could develop serious problems like hypothermia. So, it’s important to know the signs that your dog is cold, and to take steps to keep your pet comfy, whether they’re indoors or outside.  Although any dog can be affected by cold temperatures, wind, and snow, some are going to feel the drop in temperature sooner or more intensely. Puppies and seniors, as well as small dogs and those with short coats, are a few examples, along with hairless dogs and those who are ill or have chronic medical conditions.Signs Your Dog Is ColdHere are some of the ways to tell if your dog is cold:Your dog feels cold to the touch – An easy way to tell if your dog is cold is by petting them and feeling the temperature of their body. A good place to check is their ears, but also touch their paws, belly, and skin under their fur. If their body is cool to the touch, there are ways to warm them up.Your dog doesn’t want to be active – If your dog isn’t as active as they usually are, they might be feeling the chill in the air. Feel their body, as discussed above, to see if they’re cold, and take steps to make them warm. A dog who’s moving more slowly than normal while outside should be brought inside right away. Your dog is shivering – Just like people shiver when they’re cold, dogs will too, so this is an obvious sign that your pet needs to be warmed up as soon as possible. If your dog is trembling, consider the temperature inside your home, as you might need to turn the heat up. And if your dog is shaking while outside in the cold, bring them inside right away.Your dog is searching for ways to stay warm – If your dog wants to lie down next to the fireplace or heater, or they want to snuggle up next to you or under a blanket, they’re looking for ways to get warm. In addition, your dog might be reluctant to go outside, whether for a walk or to go potty. If they’re outside and you see them trying to find some shelter to warm up, bring them in immediately.  Your dog’s body language and vocalizations change – If you know your pet’s normal behavior and demeanor, it should be easy to tell when they’re cold. There will be signs that they’re uncomfortable, and they might exhibit anxious behaviors that let you know something is wrong. For example, your dog may tuck their tail, have a hunched posture, or curl up in a ball, and they might also bark or whimper. What To Do if Your Dog Is ColdWhenever your dog is showing signs of feeling cold, take action right away. Remember, a dog who gets too cold is at risk of hypothermia. Also, the cold can make some dogs, such as those with arthritis, experience even more discomfort. If your dog is outside, bring them inside. And if they’re wet from rain or snow, dry them gently.If your dog is already inside, move them to a warmer area, such as near a heat source and away from drafts.Help your dog feel warm and cozy indoorsYou can rub and massage your dog to help generate some warmth with your hands. Give your pet a cozy bed to rest in, and cover them with a blanket. You can also lie down next to your dog to help them warm up.There are heated dog beds you can use whenever your dog is chilly, along with dog heating pads that can work well too—just be sure to use these products as directed for safety and so your pet won’t get too hot. Keep your dog warm while outsideBefore heading outside with your dog, check the temperature. Generally, if it’s colder than 45°F (7°C), you should take additional precautions to ensure your pet won’t get too cold. But you know your individual dog best, so you’ll know when they need extra protection and less time outside.There are various jackets, sweaters, and boots made for dogs of all breeds and sizes. Put these on your canine companion before heading outside so they can stay warm while they go potty or go for a short walk.If it’s too cold for a walk or play session outside, don’t force your dog to stay out there. Instead, find ways to play with your dog indoors until the weather warms enough to be safer and more comfortable for your pooch.Use products that help your dog warm up and stay warmHere are a couple of items to consider buying for your dog: K&H Self-Warming Crate Pad

Study Finds That Cats Have Hundreds of Facial Expressions

If you’ve lived with cats for any length of time, you know that they express themselves in a variety of ways, and their faces can tell you a lot. Yet, there are some people who think that cats are expressionless, especially when compared to other animals. Well, science has once again come through to prove that cats are social and communicative; you just have to know how to read them.

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Researchers Find Genetic Links Between Human and Canine Brain Tumors

In a groundbreaking study, researchers have discovered striking similarities between the most common type of brain tumor in dogs and humans - meningioma. These findings were published in the scientific journal Acta Neuropathologica. Until now, scientists struggled to find reliable experimental models to understand the biology of and develop effective treatments for these tumors. But thanks to these newly discovered similarities, doctors will be able to use a classification system that identifies these aggressive tumors in humans and pooches.“The discovery that naturally occurring canine tumors closely resemble their human counterparts opens numerous avenues of exploring the biology of these challenging tumors,” said Dr. Akash Patel, an associate professor of neurosurgery at Baylor College of Medicine and principal investigator at the Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute (Duncan NRI) at Texas Children’s Hospital. “It also provides opportunities for developing and studying novel treatments applicable to both humans and dogs,” he added.During the study, researchers analyzed 62 dog meningiomas from 27 breeds and found that the tumors were remarkably similar to the same kinds of tumors in humans. To this date, this is the largest study of the gene expression profiles of the canine meningioma. Others, including Dr. Jonathan Levine, a VMBS professor and the head of the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences (VSCS), and Dr. Tiemo Klisch, assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine and Principal Investigator at Duncan NRI, were involved in the study along Dr. Patel. Meanwhile, assistant professor Dr. Beth Boudreau was a key collaborator. Previous work done by Levine, Boudreau, and others at VMBS, which found similarities between gliomas - the second most common type of brain tumors - in humans and dogs, was instrumental for Patel’s study. “We ended up agreeing to provide Patel with canine tumor samples we had worked years and years to achieve, to see if he could isolate the RNA, which is not always easy to do,” said Levine, in a statement. “He was able to produce this very robust data set that showed a similar pattern structure to human tumors. Our team also provided Dr. Patel with key clinical outcome data, including responses to certain treatments.”Now that the researchers have found a link between brain tumors in humans and dogs they hope to establish clinical trials to continue their research. Setting up this type of clinical trial can take several years of planning and requires funding.“We are really interested in creating wins for both human and animal medicine,” said Levine. “For example, we hope to give dog owners access to therapy that’s not available anywhere else in the world through clinical trials. At the same time, that information will also inform the next step of human trials.”As it happens, another group of researchers from the University of California, Davis, conducted a similar study with matching results about meningioma in humans and dogs. This study was also published in the scientific journal Acta Neuropathologica.Now, the two research groups plan to collaborate in the future and share their findings to develop treatment options for both human and canine brain tumors. “If we do one trial, we’d be able to enroll patients a lot more quickly, which would make it easier to get larger data sets resulting in stronger findings. So we have a lot of interest in doing a collaborative trial,” added Levine. “We really see the team out in California as potential partners.” Thanks to this groundbreaking research, scientists now have a better understanding of brain tumors and are one step closer to developing life-saving treatments for both humans and dogs. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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