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Scottish Straight

Lisa Selvaggio
by Lisa Selvaggio
Updated:  December 20th, 2022 Published:  December 30th, 2021
fast facts

About Scottish Straight

Weight
6-14 lb
Physique
Medium build, round features
Lifespan
12-15 years
Best Suited For
Any cat loving household, including singles, families with other pets, and families with children
Temperament
Friendly, intelligent, laidback, playful, social
Comparable Breeds
Scottish Fold, Exotic Shorthair
Height
8-10 inches

Scottish Straight Breed History


The Scottish Straight is one of the feline breeds that make up the Scottish Breed Group, along with the beloved  Scottish Fold. More specifically, according to  The International Cat Association (TICA), the Scottish Breed Group consists of the Longhair Scottish Fold and the Shorthair Scottish Fold, as well as the Longhair Scottish Straight and the Shorthair Scottish Straight, for a total of four breeds. The group is quite unique in many ways, and it is known for being smart, affectionate, and attractive. Let’s learn more about these Scottish felines, and what makes them so special! 


This breed of cat has an interesting history. The very first Scottish Fold was a barn cat whose name was Susie. She was found by William Ross in 1961 in Scotland, on a farm near Coupar Angus in Perthshire. He quickly recognized that she had a standout feature: folded ears that made her look a bit like an owl. This kitty was later bred with other breeds, such as the  American Shorthair, Burmese, Exotic Shorthair, and Persian.    


One important thing to realize is that the Scottish Straight is almost identical to the Scottish Fold, and they can actually be born within the same litter. The only difference is in the ears. While Scottish Folds have those iconic ears that fold down, Scottish Straight cats do not. As the name implies, their ears are straight like other breeds. The reason for this difference lies in the breed’s origins. All Scottish Folds can trace their ancestry back to that first kitty with folded ears, Susie. However, the selective breeding program did not solely produce kittens with those unique ears, as some had straight ears. Thus, all Scottish Folds that do not develop the unusual folded ears are simply called Scottish Straights. So, when you learn about the Scottish Fold, you’re also learning about the Scottish Straight, and vice versa. Again, they can both be born in the same litter, and will, therefore, showcase the same personality traits and physical attributes. 


Today, the Scottish Straight is known for its wonderful temperament. Many pet parents all around the world absolutely love having these kitties as part of their families. Not only are they super cute, but they also have a personality that makes them lovely companions for people of all ages. Of course, like other breeds, there are certain qualities that Scottish Straight cats will exhibit, both in looks and behavior, and it’s those qualities that help them stand out against other felines.   


Breed Traits

Here are some of the main characteristics that define the personality of the Scottish Straight:


Curious and fun-loving 


The Scottish Straight, like the Scottish Fold, is known for its inquisitiveness, as well as its intelligence. So, you can expect these kitties to always be on the lookout for something new and interesting in their environment. They are sure to love getting new toys, including puzzle toys that challenge their minds, and they might enjoy going on adventures with you. 


For example, you might be able to train your Scottish Straight to do things like sit in a pet stroller or walk on a cat leash to spend time outdoors with you. Or, you might keep it simple by allowing your kitty to enjoy the outside world from the comfort of a durable and secure catio.


If you prefer to keep your activities with your cat safely indoors, you can still have loads of fun with a Scottish Straight. Interacting with your kitty during play sessions that allow them to release their energy is sure to be amusing for both of you.  


Also, don’t forget to find ways to keep this kitty entertained during the day while you aren’t home to interact with them. You can give your pet some exciting wall perches, comfy window perches, tall cat trees, irresistible catnip toys, yummy cat grass, and more. Whatever it is, the Scottish Straight is bound to want to check it out and jump right in to let out their inner hunter, relax for a nap, gaze out the window, etc. 


This all basically means that the Scottish Straight will require a lot of mental stimulation throughout the day in order to keep their inquisitive and smart personality satisfied. Another one of the solutions for this is  interactive cat toys. Find a fun gadget that can keep your feline friend occupied, use it safely as directed, and supervise playtime if it’s necessary to do so. This could be just the thing to help your cat stay sharp, and it can help them release their energy in a positive way. Always remember: a neglected cat can quickly become bored, and that might lead to other negative emotions and moods, such as depression.


Loyal and attention seeking


In addition to being fun-loving, these cats are known for their loyalty. Although every kitty is a unique individual, Scottish Straight cats typically are not shy, as they would much prefer always being around you, perhaps even following you throughout your home to stay close by, whether you’re working or relaxing.


It is important to keep this breed’s personality in mind if you are thinking about bringing a Scottish Straight into your family. Put simply, if you are looking for a cat that will want to be near you rather than alone, this breed may be the perfect fit. On the other hand, if you want a more independent kitty, this might not be it.  


Another thing to keep in mind is that, despite enjoying being around people, these cats generally do not like being carried or picked up, and they do have a bit of an independent side that makes them comfortable being near you while still being able to do their own thing. Therefore, they make great pets for those who are searching for a cat that will be devoted without being too clingy to their human family. A Scottish Straight might be that ideal balance that you are looking for in a pet, as these cats are likely going to give you loads of attention and companionship without always needing to do things like sit in your lap. But, again, if you do want an adorable feline that you’ll be able to pick up, hold, and carry around, this breed might disappoint, as most of these cats are known for not being fans of this. 

 

Intelligent and ready to learn


Because these cats are so smart, you can even try to train them to do tricks or play fetch. This can take some time, and it does require consistency, but the results might be amazing and a lot of fun to watch. Plus, spending time training your Scottish Straight might be a fantastic way to get that important interaction in to keep your intelligent and playful kitty mentally stimulated and physically active. Just be sure to incorporate the right training tools and use the appropriate and gentle training techniques that felines will respond to in a positive way. 


This might also be a great breed to add to your family if you hope to  teach your kitty to use speech buttons to communicate with you. Because these cats are known for being intelligent and curious, they might find the buttons interesting, and might catch on quite efficiently if you use the right approach when training them. 


Just bear in mind that, when training your Scottish Straight, patience and rewards are key. Use positive reinforcement, and reward your cat with a treat or praise each time they complete a task.  


Relaxed and easygoing


In addition to their playfulness, this breed is described as being laid-back, so again, they can have a nicely balanced personality. These cats are also pretty quiet, with a soft voice, so, unlike other breeds, they might not be too talkative. 


If you have kids or other pets, the Scottish Straight may fit right in, too. These kitties can get along with other pets and with children, making them a good breed to consider when you want to add to your family. Just keep in mind that it is best to start acclimating your cat to other animals and people while they are still young, preferably in the kitten stage. When you properly socialize them and introduce them to strangers and other cats early on, you could increase the odds that they will grow up to be sociable and friendly cats. Of course, a lot of this also has to do with their intelligence, as Scottish Straights will likely soak up all of the lessons you throw at them, even when it comes to lessons in socialization.


Questions to ask yourself before getting a Scottish Straight


Overall, the Scottish Straight has a lot of endearing qualities, but it may not be the right breed for everyone. So, ask yourself a few questions before deciding if the Scottish Straight is the right cat for you when you are thinking about adding a feline to your family. 


For instance, will you or your family members be able to devote enough time and give enough attention to your cat? If not, it may be better to go with a breed that has a more independent personality and wouldn’t require as much interaction (of course, all kitties need to have a good amount of healthy interaction with their human families, but some need it more than others to feel content and fulfilled). 


Also, if you and your family are typically really busy outside of the home or you spend a lot of time away from home, whether you work long hours or travel often, a Scottish Straight cat might not be happy and might end up feeling bored and lonely. On the other hand, if you know that you will be able to spend a lot of time at home, giving your furry companion loads of affection, playtime, and snuggle time, a Scottish Straight is most likely going to absolutely love getting all of that attention. 


Overall Description


As mentioned above, Scottish Folds and Scottish Straights can either be long-haired or short-haired, and Straights and Folds can be born in the same litter. The only difference is that the Scottish Straight’s ears will remain upright, like other cat breeds, while the Scottish Fold’s ears will eventually fold forward and downward. Ultimately, though, the Folds and the Straights have the same personality and structural features.


According to  TICA, this feline breed is described as round. That’s because these cats have a round face and head, round body and feet, and round eyes. This feature makes them really cute – something that you will realize as soon as you see one in person or in a photo. You might even notice that an adult Scottish Straight still looks much like a kitten. 

 

The body of a Scottish Straight is medium sized and medium boned. Their ears can be medium in size as well, or they can be small, and they will feature tips that are rounded to complement the rest of the round features of this cat. Even the tail might have a round tip.  


When it comes to the coat of a Scottish Straight, it also adds to this kitty’s attractiveness, whether it is short and plush or long and luxurious. It’s nearly impossible to resist the cuteness of these kitties, so expect a lot of compliments about your pet.  


Colors


If you want to be able to bring home a kitty that has a particular look in terms of their coat, you’ll be glad to learn that Scottish Straights come in a variety of patterns and colors, including all of those in the Pointed and Traditional Divisions. These include tabby, bi-color, parti-color, tabby and white, and solid. Also, every eye color is possible, though copper is the most common.


A litter of these kittens might not only feature a mix of Straights and Folds but also a mix of coat colors and patterns. This variety makes the Scottish Straight a diverse breed, whose looks can fit every pet parent’s preference.  


Grooming Requirements

All cats can benefit from you grooming them on a regular basis. This includes brushing their coat and trimming their claws. But it’s wise to check a breed’s specific needs to learn how to help your cat maintain a clean and healthy coat. 


The grooming requirements of a Scottish Straight, and the amount of time that you will need to spend brushing your cat, will pretty much depend on the length of the fur. But, whether you have a short-haired or long-haired kitty, brushing them will be important, and your Scottish Straight is most likely going to thoroughly enjoy taking in all of the attention. 


As you probably already guessed, a long-haired Scottish Straight may need to be  brushed more frequently than their short-haired counterpart. And they might require longer brushing sessions that are done on a regular basis. Plus, you might need to use different types of brushes to get the right results. This consistent grooming routine can work on removing dead hair, and this could help prevent tangles and matting as well.


Short-haired Scottish Straights, on the other hand, could benefit from a simple weekly brushing in order to help prevent hairballs and reduce shedding. And these grooming sessions can help keep your pet’s coat soft and smooth too. Because there isn’t as much of a risk of the fur getting tangled or matted as there is with a long-haired cat, the grooming routine may be easier overall.


Also, you can generally expect that, like other feline breeds, these cats will shed all year long, and you might notice more shedding during certain seasons of the year. Thankfully, regularly brushing your kitty can help when it comes to shedding by removing loose fur before it ends up on all of your clothes and around the house. And, as mentioned above, this is a fabulous way to bond with your sweet Scottish Straight.  


On the whole, the grooming requirements and the amount of work needed for this cat are minimal. With just a few regular brushing sessions each week, you can keep a long-haired or short-haired Scottish Straight looking lovely, and you will likely notice that less hair ends up on your couch, too. 


In conclusion, Scottish Straights are fun, affectionate, attractive, and loyal. If you think that this breed’s traits would be a good fit for your household, you can find a kitten, adult, or senior that’s in need of a home and ready to shower you with love. 


Photo credit: vasi_100/Bigstock; sharafmaksumov/Bigstock; serkucher/Bigstock

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Lisa Selvaggio
Lisa Selvaggio

Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.

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American Airlines Makes It Easier To Travel With Pets

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

New Study Reveals Dogs Can Sniff Out Neurodegenerative Diseases

We all know that doggos have incredible noses and a superb sense of smell. It is tens of thousands of times stronger than our own. This makes us wonder – what secrets can such a sense of smell unveil? Many scientists consider the canine sense of smell a great potential to enhance human lives thanks to its accuracy. And that is exactly what was unveiled in a recent study published in “bioRxiv”, by researchers Samuel V. Johnston and Lisa Holt from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. Thanks to their efforts, and the incredible abilities of doggos, it was revealed that our four-legged friends have the potential to detect neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s disease is a terrible condition, affecting primarily seniors. What is even worse is that this disease has many difficulties in diagnosis, which prevents doctors from accurately identifying the disease in the early stages. But the breakthrough study could change all that! Thanks to doggos and their powerful noses, we could be on the brink of completely changing the way Parkinson’s is diagnosed. “Dogs have an extraordinary olfactory capability, which far exceeds that of humans. Dogs’ sense of smell seems to be the main sense, allowing them to not only gather both current and historical information about their surrounding environment, but also to find the source of the smell, which is crucial for locating food, danger, or partners for reproduction.”  writes Agata Kusiak, from the Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University. “Dogs can be trained by humans to use their olfactory abilities in a variety of fields, with a detection limit often much lower than that of sophisticated laboratory instruments.”Utilizing this remarkable sense of smell, scientists trained 23 dogs of different breeds and backgrounds, to successfully differentiate between samples of both Parkinson’s-positive individuals and Parkinson’s-negative individuals. The results were more than successful, with the dogs showcasing 86% sensitivity and 89% specificity in distinguishing the samples. In many ways, this is a revolutionary study and opens new doors and new possibilities in medical diagnostics. What is even better, it offers new hope for the timely detection of Parkinson’s disease. However, it is important to note that the study is still in relative infancy, and is still awaiting peer review. But the potential here is incredible. If validated, the study could help improve patient outcomes, and help with early diagnosis of this troubling disease.

San Juan Puerto Rico’s Iconic Stray Felines to Be Evicted

One-year deadline imposed by the US National Park Service to shift almost 200 cats from 16th-century El Morro fortress.

Do Dogs Cry Tears?

Perhaps you spotted tears streaming from your pet’s eyes and wondered: do dogs cry tears as an emotional response? Or is there a different explanation for this phenomenon? Well, the answer is pretty straightforward – dogs don’t produce tears because of their emotions like we humans do. They produce tears primarily to lubricate their eyes, and remove dust and other irritants. But, this does not mean that they don’t express emotions in other ways – here’s what you need to know about your teary-eyed furball.Do Dogs Cry Real Tears?If you spot tears running from your dog’s eyes, you are not deceived – they are real. However, they are not tears of sadness or emotion, as dogs simply don’t express feelings the same way as we do. The role of those tears is more of a bodily function. They are there to lubricate the eye, making sure it functions as it should. After all, dogs can just rub their eyes or place a few drops inside when needed. So, their body does the job for them, and hence the tears. Of course, an excessive amount of tears is not natural. And neither are dry and tearless eyes. So, in either one of these cases, you should schedule a visit with your vet. Dry eyes in dogs are also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) or "dry eye syndrome," and can lead to discomfort, irritation, and potential complications if left untreated. In many cases of dry eyes, veterinarians prescribe artificial tears or  lubricating eye drops to help moisturize the eyes and relieve discomfort. These drops can help supplement the natural tear production and provide relief from dryness. 

A Dog is Adopted After 7 Years in Shelter After An Emotional Discovery

One pet shelter in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, has been the home of a darling rescue dog named Ella for 7 long years. But the long wait for a happy ending is finally over – as Ella was recently adopted, and under very special circumstances at that. The staff at  Bloomsburg Animal Resource Center have titled this “an extremely special adoption”, and advised readers that “they might want to grab a tissue real quick for this one”.Ella had been at the shelter for the last seven years, making her the center’s longest resident. But recently, things took a turn for the better, when Ella was spotted by Kaitlyn, a resident who quickly fell in love with the rescue pooch. When coming to the center, Kaitlyn said that her long-time furry friend, Jo, recently passed away, and now she was ready to meet a new dog.And as soon as the two met, the match was made. It was obvious that they were meant for each other. Ella quickly made everyone know that Kaitlyn was her “human”. Usually, it wasn’t so. Ella was a victim of abuse and had a long history of fear and aggression. It would take several visits for her to get relaxed around strangers. But with Kaitlyn, this was not the case. The bond was near-instant. “She immediately walked over to Kaitlyn with no hesitation, allowing her to give Ella scratches and pets right away,” the staff of the adoption center said.At the end of the adoption meeting, when Kaitlyn was about to leave, she suddenly noticed something that made her overwhelmingly emotional. What she spotted was the bandana that Ella was wearing around her neck. Her eyes welling with tears, Kaitlyn said to the staff that it was the exact bandana that belonged to her recently passed away dog, Jo. She said that after the passing, she donated all the bandanas to the center. “This bandana that Ella is wearing, it’s Jo’s. I donated them all here when he passed,” Kaitlyn said, quickly showing a picture of Jo wearing it. The symbolism and the connection were incredible. It was a sign that the two were meant to be together. When they realized what happened, the staff was moved to tears: “Out of the 20 dogs in our shelter right now, this bandana. This specific bandana. Jo’s bandana. It was on Ella.”Later, Kaitlyn said that the bandana is a sign: “I like to think of it as Jo’s stamp of approval.”And so it was, that after 7 long years of waiting, the kind and gentle Ella found her new forever home, and a human friend who would treat her right.“Every morning, Ella used to pop up off her bed and greet you at the door of her kennel right away,” the staff at the Animal Resource Center said. “We’ll miss that tomorrow, it’ll be such a bittersweet moment realizing that as we pause to reflect on a few of our favorites times with Ella — but my goodness the amount of pure happiness we will feel every day knowing Ella finally got what she deserved: ELLA GOT ADOPTED.”

Hypothermia in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

When a dog gets too cold, they’re at risk of hypothermia. But what is hypothermia, what are its symptoms, and what can be done to treat it? Below is a brief guide to dog hypothermia so you can have a better understanding of this condition and why it’s so important to prevent it.What Is Hypothermia in Dogs?Hypothermia develops when a dog’s body temperature drops to 99°F (37.2°C) or lower. A dog’s normal body temperature range is 99.5-102.5°F (37.5-39.2°C).There are three levels of hypothermia: mild, moderate, and severe.Mild hypothermia occurs when a dog’s body temperature is between 90-99°F (32.2-37.2°C).Moderate hypothermia develops when the dog’s body temperature falls even more, to 82-90°F (27.8-32.2°C).Severe hypothermia develops when the dog’s body temperature falls below 82°F (27.8°C).Giving a dog the right treatment to bring their temperature back up is critical, as hypothermia can cause damage to organs, and it could be fatal.  Some dogs may be at greater risk of hypothermia. Puppies, seniors, and dogs who are thin or small are a few examples. Dogs who are ill, including those with chronic conditions, can also be more susceptible. Also, hairless dogs and those with short coats are other examples.What Causes Hypothermia in Dogs?Dogs who are in the cold for too long are at risk of hypothermia. And if they get wet, their body temperature can drop more rapidly. Never leave a dog outside when it’s too cold or windy, or when it’s raining or snowing.It doesn’t have to be extremely cold for dogs to feel the effects either, as a temperature less than 45°F (7.2°C) could put some dogs at risk. Before going outside with your dog, check the wind chill, too, as this will give you a better idea of what it actually feels like out there, and what the risk of frostbite and hypothermia really is.    Also, certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism and shock, could increase a dog’s risk of hypothermia.Symptoms of Hypothermia in DogsAs a dog starts to feel cold, they’ll exhibit changes in behavior. Warming them up right away can prevent them from getting even colder. If hypothermia continues to set in, the situation will become more dire as the symptoms progress.Here are some of the symptoms to watch out for:Mild hypothermia may cause a dog to shiver and experience weakness. They may also be less alert, and may try to find ways to stay warm, such as curling in a ball. If you were to feel the dog’s skin, ears, paws, legs, and tail, they may be cold to the touch.Moderate hypothermia may cause the breathing to become shallow and slow, and the muscles may become stiff, resulting in difficulty moving. The blood pressure may drop, and the dog may be even more lethargic and confused. If you were to check the gums, they may be pale.  Severe hypothermia may cause the pupils to become fixed and dilated, and a dog may have trouble breathing. They may not be as responsive, or they may become unresponsive. Also, they may not be shivering anymore. Collapse and coma may occur.How to Help a Hypothermic DogThe symptoms of hypothermia must be taken seriously. Contact your veterinarian even if you think your dog might only have mild hypothermia, as they can provide guidance on what to do, and they might advise bringing your dog in to be examined and treated.In cases of severe hypothermia, a veterinarian will need to treat your dog, so don’t try to fix this problem yourself.Here are a few steps you can take if your dog has mild hypothermia (again, talk to your vet first to be sure you’re taking the right steps and you can treat this at home):Dry your dog if they’re wet. Bring them to a warm area of your home, such as near a heat source. Wrap them in a blanket—you could even warm it up in the dryer first. Use products like the PetFusion Microplush Quilted Pet Blanket, which is super soft and has a light fill that provides more warmth.

Scientists Finally Identify Mystery Dog Illness Sweeping America

If you are a dog owner in the United States, you have likely already seen the news reports about the mystery illness responsible for the deaths of several dogs, prompting veterinary professionals to caution pet parents about taking their pets out to public spaces. But we may finally be able to spot the light at the end of the tunnel… Dr. David Needle, pathology section chief at the College of Life Sciences and Agriculture at the University of New Hampshire, reported that scientists have finally identified the cause of the illness. While this doesn’t mean that life for our dogs can return to normal immediately, it does mean that they are one step closer to finding a cure and moving past this nightmare. The research article has yet to be published, but the team is sharing their initial findings to provide hope for pet parents and the veterinary community. The pathogen responsible for the mystery respiratory illness is described as “a funky bacterium.” “It’s smaller than a normal bacterium in its size and in the size of its genome,” explained Needle. “Long story short, it’s a weird bacterium that can be tough to find and sequence.” Searching for the cause of this illness wasn’t easy for researchers. Initially, there were no known bacterial, viral, or fungal pathogens, meaning they were searching blind. However, after testing 30 samples from New Hampshire, genetic material from an atypical bacterial species was discovered. The next step in understanding the cause of the illness and working towards a cure (and possible preventative) is to compare these findings to samples from dogs in other states to verify that it is, in fact, the same pathogen in all reported instances. States with possible cases of the disease include: CaliforniaColoradoFlorida Georgia IdahoIllinois IndianaMarylandMassachusettsNew HampshireOregonPennsylvania Rhode IslandVermontWashingtonOne challenge faced by veterinarians is the fact there is no test to confirm that all reported cases are, in fact, the same illness. What Are the Warning Signs?Common symptoms resemble respiratory infections like canine influenza and kennel cough, conditions usually seen in higher numbers at this time of year. Luckily for the human members of our family, there are currently no reports of the illness being transferred to humans. Veterinarians recommend watching out for the following symptoms: Coughing or sneezing WheezingDifficulty breathingNasal or eye dischargeDehydration Loss of appetite Weight loss FeverLethargyHow Can You Keep Your Dog Safe? Until a cure has been identified, dog parents are encouraged to focus on preventative measures. Ensure your dog’s vaccinations are current, protecting them against known respiratory problems. Avoid public spaces like dog parks, doggy daycare, and grooming establishments where dogs may be exposed to the illness. If you must go to a public space, steer clear of shared food and water dishes. Your dog will be just as happy to spend this time playing with you as they would with another dog!If you notice any signs of respiratory trouble or illness, don’t panic. Contact your veterinarian to share your concerns and make an appointment.

Plain Jane Dogs Work Harder to Communicate

Studies show dogs without facial markings tend to get the short end of the stick... so to speak.

Study Finds Differences in Pain Sensitivity Between Dog Breeds

Although you might think that all dogs experience pain the same, it turns out that different dog breeds have varying levels of pain sensitivity.

Does Your Dog Have What it Takes to Be a B.A.R.K. Ranger?

Is your dog your favorite adventure buddy? Do you dream of exploring America’s National Parks system with your furry best friend by your side? While many parks have limitations on where dogs are allowed, the popularity of pet-friendly travel is on the rise. In response, the U.S. National Park Service introduced a program to teach dog parents how to travel with their pups responsibly – the B.A.R.K. Ranger Program. But does your dog have what it takes to be a B.A.R.K. Ranger? What is involved in earning that title anyway? In this article, we will break down the B.A.R.K. principles and why they are so important for responsible outdoor travel. We will also share tips for helping your dog become a certified B.A.R.K. ranger. What Does the Acronym “B.A.R.K.” Stand For? Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is the B.A.R.K. Ranger program, and what does the acronym “B.A.R.K.” stand for? Recognizing that a growing number of dog parents wanted to bring their pups with them when visiting the parks, the U.S. National Park Service recognized a need for education on how to travel with dogs responsibly. This means focusing on the importance of respecting the environment, local wildlife, and other visitors to the park. This program is a partnership between the National Park Service (NPS) and the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT). It is part of the Healthy Parks Healthy People Initiative, which is focused on the idea that “parks can be gateways to good health – for people and the planet.” The B.A.R.K. acronym stands for: B – Bag your pet’s wasteA – Always leash your petR – Respect wildlife K – Know where you can goThe concept is similar to the traditional Leave No Trace principles but focuses on how a dog may impact the environment and the overall park experience. What Are the Qualifications to Become a B.A.R.K. Ranger? The good news is that the requirements to become a B.A.R.K. Ranger are very broad. The program is open to dogs of all ages, breeds, sizes, and activity levels. From the senior chihuahua who prefers to be carried along the trail while still enjoying the fresh air to the high-energy Border Collie who could hike for days without stopping, all are welcome! So, does your dog meet the qualifications? As long as they are dog – YES!What is the Process of Getting Your Dog’s B.A.R.K. Ranger Certification? This is where the conversation becomes a little more complicated. While the B.A.R.K. Ranger program is a National Park Service program, the exact requirements to be named a B.A.R.K. Ranger vary from park to park. This allows each park to customize the program to best suit its area and the needs of those who visit each park specifically. At some parks, you will be asked to take a booklet and fill it out. Once you have completed the booklet, you will receive your commemorative leash tag. At other parks, a program is offered that you will attend to learn more about the B.A.R.K. principles and how they can be applied in your travels. Finally, some parks make it incredibly easy. They ask those interested to learn about the B.A.R.K. principles at home before coming to the park. Upon arrival, the dog's parents are asked if they understand and agree with them. They then take a pledge to follow these principles before their dog is given the coveted title.

Wildlife Center Wears Fox Masks When Caring for Orphaned Cubs

Bonding with an orphaned kitten or puppy is fine, not so much when you're caring for wildlife.

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