Tetra

by Amy Tokic

Published: November 19th, 2013

About Tetra

Group

Freshwater

Size

Small

Temperament

Non-aggressive

Aquarium Size

Medium (30 gal)

Swimming Region

All

Fish Water Condition

Varies depending on species

Suitable Tank Mates

Danios, While Cloud Minnows, Platys, Sword-tails, Guppies, Mollies, other small livebearers

Difficulty Of Care

Weekly care

Top Breed

Tetra General description

Tetras are a species of tropical fish extremely popular in the aquarium trade. There are over 150 different species of tetras, most of which have small, compressed body shapes. Tetras are also characterized by their tiny adipose fin which is located between their dorsal and tail fins. Most aquarium varieties of tetra are extremely colorful and relatively hardy, making them a popular choice amongst beginner and experienced aquarists alike.

Tetras are a species of tropical fish extremely popular in the aquarium trade.

Origins

Tetras originate from Africa, Central America, and South America.

Color

Tetras come in a wide array of shades and color combinations, including red, blue, silver, grey, yellow and white.

Maintenance and care

Tetras are an extremely timid, schooling species of fish and do best when kept in large groups of 10 or more. When kept in smaller groups or in pairs, tetras can often turn jumpy and suffer from stress. They are active swimmers and thrive when provided with large open swimming spaces. They also appreciate heavily planted aquariums with plenty of hiding places where they can retreat to when feeling threatened. While the water requirements of each species of tetra differ slightly based on their natural habitats, most tetras can adapt to a variety of water conditions.

Tetras are extremely peaceful and make excellent additions to most community tanks. However they should not be kept with aggressive species that might harass them, or larger, predatory species that might prey on them.

Feeding

Tetras are omnivores and will readily accept most flake based aquarium foods.

There are over 150 different species of tetras, most of which have small, compressed body shapes.

Breeding

While breeding tetras isn’t as easy as breeding livebearers like swordtails or mollies, it is not altogether impossible. However, it is a task that takes a great deal of effort and careful attention. The first step in attempting to breed tetras is learning to sex them. Mature female tetras will be larger in size and will be plumper around the belly region. Males, on the other hand, are usually more vibrant in color and have longer fins. Another important aspect that needs to be paid attention to when breeding tetras is their diet. It is crucial to provide tetras with a varied diet that includes different types of live foods which provide essential vitamins and minerals that are required to get the fish into breeding condition. The water parameters of the breeding aquarium too are of utmost importance. It is sometimes necessary to carry out sporadic water changes and temperature changes to mimic naturally occurring weather patterns to entice tetras to spawn. Once spawning occurs, it is important to promptly separate the parents from the breeding tank because they will readily devour any eggs that they come across.

Aquarium varieties

Neon Tetra, Black Neon Tetra, Cardinal Tetra, Glowlight Tetra, Bleeding Heart Tetra, Black Phantom Tetra, Emperor Tetras, etc.

Photo credit: Juan R. Lascorz/Wikimedia; WIKIFAN-UL/Wikimedia

Amy Tokic

Amy Tokic, Editor of PetGuide.com, is a passionate animal lover and proud pet parent of Oscar, a Shih Tzu/Chihuahua cross, and Zed, a Japanese Chin. Her love of animals began in kindergarten, when she brought her stuffed dog Snoopy into class with her every day. Now, she writes about her adventures in pet ownership and tirelessly researches products, news and health related issues she can share with other animal enthusiasts. In her free time, Amy loves perusing used book and record stores, obsessing over the latest pet products available and chasing squirrels with wild abandon (a habit attributed to spending too much time with her pooches).

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Neon Tetra

Neon Tetra General description Neon tetras are an incredibly beautiful species of tropical freshwater aquarium fish. It gets its name from the iridescent blue horizontal stripe that runs along each side of the fish from its nose to the base of the adipose fin, and the iridescent red stripe that begins at the middle of the body and extends to the base of the tail fin. The neon tetra also has a light blue back and a silver abdomen. Except for these markings, the fish is completely transparent and often loses its coloration in the night or when under stress. Neon tetras usually grow up to around 1.2 inches in length and can survive for up to three to four years given adequate care. Neon tetras are an incredibly beautiful species of tropical freshwater aquarium fish. Origins The neon tetra is native to the black water and clearwater streams of south-eastern Colombia, eastern Peru and western Brazil. Color In addition to the more common red and blue variant, neon tetras have also been bred into a light yellowish color (Gold Neon Tetras) and a variety called the Diamond Neon Tetra, where the blue stripe has been reduced to a tiny spot on the tetra’s head. Maintenance and care

Tetra 101: Introduction to Schools of Fish

It’s time to go back to school – we’re going to educate you on schools of fish. And before you head to the front of the class, we’ll teach you about the joys of keeping a school of tetras. If you’ve been thinking about going back to school for an extended education, you don’t have to go further than your own aquarium. When deciding what type of school to add to a tank, consider the color of the fish. The school of fish will often be seen as a flash of light and color – it will complement your decor and other fish in the tank. There are many types of schooling fish, but the most popular when it comes to home aquariums are tetras that come in a broad variety. We’re going to show you a few of them to consider for your tank. Related: Aquascaping: A Tank of Beauty Tetra Types Neon tetras and cardinal tetras are by far some of the most common tetras to be found in fish stores. They are inexpensive and provide a bright flash of color. The down fall with these tetras is that they can be sensitive. They prefer soft water, like that of the amazon where they originate, and so water parameters can have a negative effect on them. They are also on the smaller side, so keeping them with larger tank mates, such as angels, means some will become snack food. Like any schooling fish, the more that can be kept together will not only provide more visual appeal, but offers more comfort to the fish. Of course, always keep your tank stocking within safe limits. Related: Taking a Closer Look at Oscars Red eye tetras are larger than neons and cardinals, around two inches long. This means they can be kept with larger tank mates without becoming food. They act as good dither fish for some cichlids as well. They are not as sensitive as neons, and make an easy addition to a beginner community tank. Their red eyes and luminescent silver bodies are flashy and appealing. It is recommended to keep seven fish per 20 gallons for the most appealing effect. These tetras will also easily breed in captivity, which provides an added area of interest for the keepers. Bleeding heart tetras are a ruddy red color, and have a bright red spot located on its flanks. They have longer fins and a fuller body than some other tetras and offer a nice splash of color. They are big enough to live with angels and cichlids without being hunted. Most bleeding heart tetras are caught in the wild, as they do not easily breed in captivity. Even though they are not tetras, another schooling fish that is interesting for a community tank is the corydora. For a fish that occupies the lower portion of a tank, a school of corydora can provide a lot of activity and interest. They are peaceful cat fish that come in many sizes and colors. They do not cause any harm to other inhabitants, and as an added bonus, they will clean up waste on the tank floor. There is an amazing amount of schooling fish to consider for a tank, and we’ve only listed a few. As with any stocking decision, research and preparation can ensure that the fish provide a beautiful addition to your tank.

Top 5 Freshwater Fish Species for Planted Tanks

Now that you’ve got your planted tank set up, it’s time to stock it with fish. You can’t go wrong with these five freshwater fish species. Creating a beautiful aquarium is not an easy task. There are many aspects and factors you’ll have to pay attention to if you want to create a thriving habitat in your home. Naturally, the choice of the tank and the environment in it can’t be separated from your choice for the fish and critters in the tank. You wouldn’t want your fauna to turn on your flora, right? After you have set up your planted tank and done the work to get your plants started, you next have to think about what kind of fish you want to keep in your tank. Do not make the mistake of rushing into this decision too quickly – if you make the wrong choice you could end up having all of your hard work ruined overnight. While many aquarium fish will nibble on plants occasionally, many species have no interest in live plants which makes them a great choice for the planted tank. The key is to choose both the fish that won’t have any appetite for your precious aquarium plants, get along with each other, and that will suit your personal preferences in terms of appearance and behavior. Best Fish for Planted Tanks There are thousands of different species of aquarium fish out there, but not all of them are a good choice for plants tanks. Some common and popular species – like silver dollars, monos, and rainbowfish – are notorious plant-eaters. If you happen to get one of these plant-devouring fish, it wouldn’t take long for them to decimate your planted tank, so be extra careful with the choice you make. Otherwise, you could lose your tank’s flora literally in a matter of days. So if you’re unsure what type of fish to choose, take a look at our list- below you will find a list of the top 5 freshwater fish species that will not destroy your planted tank: Livebearers: Most livebearers including guppies, mollies, platies, and swordtails make excellent additions to the planted tank. Not only are these fish unlikely to eat live plants, but they are usually very hardy and adaptable, which means that you can cater the conditions in your tank to suit your plants and your fish will adapt. Their versatility is one of the reasons for their popularity- they are easy to take care of and come in all types of colors and looks. Of course, make sure that you’re getting the right ratio of males to females and choosing compatible breeds of livebearers to avoid aggression issues in the tank. Related: Top 5 Fast-Growing Aquarium Plants for Planted Tanks Gouramis: If you want to populate your planted tank with gorgeous colorful freshwater specimens, gouramis are an excellent choice. Blue gourami, dwarf gourami, three-spot gourami, and many other varieties are the most popular options. Despite the fact that there are many different kinds of gourami ,for the most part, these fish show little interest in live aquarium plants. Gouramis are a good choice not only for the planted tank but also for the community tank because they tend to get along well with other peaceful species.Rasboras: A group of delicate, lovely rasboras schooling will look stunning against a backdrop of aquarium plants. Rasboras are colorful and vibrant, and will definitely add more visual interest to the tank. Most rasboras do well in the planted tank and they are also a good choice as community fish. Rasboras are best kept in schools with at least 6 or more of the same species. These vivid colorful fish will swim together in a coordinated fashion, their elegant movement only making your planted tank look even more gorgeous. Related: 4 Best Types of Lighting Systems for Planted Aquariums Tetras: The perfect species for aquarium newbies and experienced aquarists alike, tetras come in many different varieties to choose from. There is a big selection of different tetra species to choose from but most species are peaceful by nature and remain fairly small in size. While they may be small, their bright colors will stand out beautifully in any aquarium space. They are also easy to care for and won’t need much fussing over to thrive in your planted tank. Neon tetra, cardinal tetra, bleeding heart tetra are some of the most frequent choices. They typically do best when kept in groups with six or more of their own species and they are a good choice for the community tank. Tetras are carnivorous fish, meaning that they are going to thrive while showing little to no interest in the plant life that you have chosen. Corydoras: Cory catfish are a type of bottom-dwelling fish that subsist on a variety of foods including live food, frozen food, and flake foods. These fish do not tend to eat live aquarium plants (though they will use them for breeding). They are much loved by aquarists for their peaceful nature and lovely looks- the variety of corydoras is not always common for bottom-dwellers. For instance, bandit cory, panda cory, and skunk cory all boast black stripes in different shapes and locations, three-spot cories boasts maze-like spots and the bronze cory stuns with its metallic hues in any of its color morphs. Of course, despite the lovely selection of fish that won’t eat aquarium plants, sometimes you have your heart set on a particular species that has a penchant for nibbling on greens. Hey, the heart wants what the heart wants! If you do decide to keep herbivorous fish in your planted tank, just be sure to feed them properly so they aren’t tempted to eat your plants. Herbivorous fish should be fed herbivore flakes or pellets along with dried algae and fresh vegetables. It’s also important to keep in mind that while some fish species don’t eat aquarium plants, they can still be harmful in the planted tank. Cichlids are a good example of this – they don’t eat plants but they do have a tendency to dig around in the substrate which can damage delicate plant roots. Cultivating a thriving planted tank is no easy task. Heck, it’s not always easy making sure that just plants or just fish in your tank thrive, let alone both and in a harmonious way, at that! It takes a great deal of work to set up the tank and the tank equipment properly and then to get your plants to grow. Why Choose Live Plants? If planning a planted aquarium or live plant aquarium means so many additional considerations in terms of choosing the right fish, why not stick with artificial plants? The truth is that a well-maintained planted aquarium brings with it some great benefits both for you and your fish. Unlike artificial plants, live plants are part of the overall ecosystem. The focus of the aquarium is more than just the fish, it’s on every element and the way they work to compliment one another. As part of the ecosystem, they contribute to the environment more than just aesthetically. Plants produce oxygen throughout the day which is then used by the fish in the aquarium. The fish in turn will release CO2 which helps to feed the plants. This cycle benefits both the fish and the plants, while also working to help stabilize the pH in your tank. In addition to the CO2, the plants will also utilize the nutrients at the bottom of the tank that are produced by uneaten food and fish waste. By using these nutrients, rather than leaving them to collect in the tank, this helps to prevent the growth of algae. For this reason, planted aquariums are surprisingly less work to maintain than those that rely on artificial plants. Creating Balance in Your Aquarium The ecosystem in your aquarium will thrive once you achieve a biological balance between all the different factors involved. Unfortunately, this balance isn’t something that you can simply prepare for and make happen from the beginning when setting up your aquarium. Instead, it’s going to take weeks or even months to achieve. During this time, you will need to monitor what is happening within the tank and make small changes where needed to the various influencing factors like the lighting. When making changes to your tank, do so slowly. Make a minor change and then give the aquarium at least 2 weeks to adjust and recalibrate. During these 2-week periods, try to keep everything in your tank as consistent as possible to get a full idea of what is working and what isn’t. This includes putting lights on a timer and setting an alarm to add any additional nutrients needed at the same time each day. Avoid any major changes such as adding new fish or plant life as these can completely change the balance of the tank and set you back to the beginning. Keep a notebook where you can log what you are doing and how the aquarium is responding. This will help you find the right balance for your individual setup. As you achieve biological balance in the ecosystem you have created, you will find that your aquarium will take on a life of its own, going on autopilot and requiring only minimal maintenance on your part. Once you’ve done all that work you don’t want to choose the wrong fish and end up having them eat all of your plants. To avoid this tragedy, stock your planted tank with some of our picks for freshwater fish species.

4 Annoying Pests Found in Your Freshwater Aquarium

Even the smallest pests can mess up the most pristine aquarium. Here are four common (and annoying) pests that could cause problems in your freshwater tank. Your aquarium is at risk of many types of pests, but do you know what to look for? From single-celled organisms to cagey creatures, you should be aware of the pests that can wreak havoc on your tank. Algae This one is pretty common, and is identifiable by most people. It is a single-celled organism that thrives in the same way that plants do – from light. Some algaes that can grow in your tank include black beard algae, blue green algae, clado, diatoms, and thread algae. Treatment of this issue is pretty straightforward – limit light and nutrients, or use an algecide to treat your tank. Without treatment, algae are not only unsightly, but also can choke out any live plants you may have. To get rid of algae, try this: Tetra AlgaeControl Water Treatment

Piranha

Piranha General Description Piranhas are a family of extremely aggressive freshwater fish made up of more than 30 sub-species. They are characterized by two rows of extremely sharp, triangular shaped teeth which are tightly packed in both jaws. Most species of piranha are fierce predators and some species like the Red Bellied Piranha are known to attack in schools and strip away the flesh from the bodies of large mammals within a matter of seconds. It is important to remember that it is illegal in many parts of the world, including the United States, to buy, sell or raise most species of piranhas. Piranhas are a family of extremely aggressive freshwater fish made up of more than 30 sub-species. Origins Piranhas originate from the rivers of South America. Color Piranhas are typically colored in shades of red, blue, green, brown, silver or black. Maintenance and care

How Can I Tell If My Dog Has a Fever?

High fever is no joke, and can be quite serious – both for people and their furry four-legged friends. Yes, dogs can have a fever too, and it can be a much more serious condition for them than it is for us. Unfortunately, fever is not an ailment you can spot with your bare eye. Because of this, you will need to thoroughly observe your pet’s behavior and learn how to spot those little details that indicate a fever. Read on as we go through the basics of dog fever and just how to tell if your pet needs your help.Symptoms of Fever in DogsDogs, like humans, can develop a fever as a response to illness or infection. It’s the body’s natural way to fight off the “intruders” in the body. Fever comes in many forms and for various reasons. You can tell if your dog has a fever by observing their behavior and checking for physical signs. Here are just a few of the most common indicators.Increased Body Temperature: 

According to ASPCA, These Are The Top 10 Pet Toxins of 2023

No matter how careful you are, accidents happen – this is particularly true when it comes to pet  poisoning cases. Not only that cats and dogs have some uncanny ability to get into stuff that they’re not supposed to get into, but you also can’t always know what things could be a potential toxin to them. And believe us when we say, there are a lot of potential pet toxins in an average household!The annual report by the  ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC)  only goes to prove this. Each year, they examine all the compiled data to determine which are the most commonly encountered pet toxins each year. It helps keep owners aware of the threats, and to keep vets always one step ahead. In 2023, the APCC was extra busy, having received hundreds of thousands of calls about items and substances that pets were exposed to. Incredibly, these substances totaled over 351,000!Even though they were contacted about such an imposing number of potentially hazardous substances, they managed to narrow down the most common culprits and compile the list of top 10 pet toxins in 2023, which will serve as a great reminder of what to look out for.Over-the-counter medications, including cold and flu medicines, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and vitamins and supplements. With 16.8% exposure, these medications are the number one threat in 2023. Almost every home has some sort of medications stored, and they aren’t always expertly hidden. Accidentally, pets can discover them and suffer many dire consequences if they ingest them. Human food and drink are almost equally as dangerous, with 16.2% reported calls. A lot of what we consume daily is toxic to pets. This can range from common items such as raisins, onions, garlic, grapes, or sweets, to more rare items such as protein drinks and bars, xylitol gums, and energy drinks. If your pet gets their paws on any of these, it can end up in an emergency vet visit. Prescription medications for humans are very dangerous to pets, and many reports were made in regard to inhalers, ADHD medications, heart medications, and similar. Prescription medications are often strong drugs and definitely not meant for pets.Chocolate is the number 4 threat for 2023. A staggering 13% of calls were related to this sweet. Dogs are mostly found consuming it as cats do not have sweet taste buds or the appetite of dogs. Still, chocolate is not meant for pets and can cause many side effects.Veterinary products are at number 5 with 8.3% reported exposures. Callers reported ingestion of chewable tablets or soft chews, many of them used for calming pets. Owners are urged to keep medicines locked away, as pets can like their sweet taste and go after them when you are not looking. Plants and fungi accounted for 8.1% of exposures. Dogs are inquisitive and can find these plants on their outdoor adventures. But many plants can cause a threat to dogs, so make sure to acquaint yourself with a list of toxic plants to look out for.Household products are also on this list, with 7.1% of exposures reported. Pets consumed various dangerous items, such as deoxidizer packets, batteries, and various miscellanea lying around the house. Be aware of what’s lying around that’s easy to reach.Rodenticides are a major threat to pets. People can use poisons to get rid of pests, but our pets don’t know that. If they ingest them, it can be extremely dangerous, leading to kidney failure, bleeding, and even death. When you are out on walks, always be careful what is lying around. Insecticides are almost the same. People use bug sprays, ant baits, and poisonous powders all over the place. Always make sure that the area you are in is free from anything that can be a threat to your pet. Recreational drugs are last but not least. With substances such as marijuana becoming increasingly legal, pets can come in contact with them as well. But there are also hallucinogenic substances such as mushrooms, especially psilocybin, and muscarine, which can be very harmful to pets. 

AI Could Match You with a New Furry Friend Based on Personality

In a cutting-edge study, scientists specializing in canine behavior have used artificial intelligence to predict dog personality types. A multi-disciplinary research team has developed an AI algorithm that simplifies the painstaking process of evaluating canine personalities.Understanding a dog’s temperament is key not only for pet owners but also for training agencies and professionals working with working dogs. The study, which introduces a brand-new method of predicting and categorizing dog personalities, is published in the eminent journal Scientific Reports. The team that developed the algorithm hopes that it will more quickly and accurately evaluate which dogs are better suited for long-term careers, such as assisting people with disabilities and helping law enforcement. This new approach to predicting dog personalities could also be used to match owners with a new furry best friend. The new AI algorithm can help shelters place dogs in the right homes, thus reducing the number of dogs returned for not being the right fit for their adoptive families.Before this algorithm, canine behavioral experts used questionnaires and statistical analysis to determine a dog’s personality.  The AI algorithm uses data from almost 8,000 responses to the commonly used Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ). The C-BARQ questionnaire has been the top resource for evaluating working dogs in the past two decades. “C-BARQ is highly effective, but many of its questions are also subjective,” said James Serpell, a professor of ethics and animal welfare emeritus at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. “By clustering data from thousands of surveys, we can adjust for outlying responses inherent to subjective survey questions in categories such as dog rivalry and stranger-related fear.”The team’s new AI algorithm gathers the responses to C-BARQ questions into five main categories that essentially form the digital personality of a dog. The results showed five distinctive personality types among domestic dogs, including excitable/attached, anxious/fearful, reactive/assertive, aloof/predatory, and calm/agreeable.The study was conducted over two years by a multi-disciplinary research team consisting of Dr Mohammad Amirhosseini of the University of East London and Professor James Serpell of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. The research was sponsored by Dogvatar, a Miami, Florida-based canine technology startup.“This innovative AI-based methodology holds promise for revolutionizing the selection and training of dogs for specific roles, both for working and non-working,” said Dr Amirhosseini. Almost 50 percent of people who surrender their dogs to animal shelters in the USA say that behavioral problems are a contributing factor, and nearly a quarter say that those problems are the main reason for giving up their dog. More research is needed to understand the nuances of canine personalities. However, researchers hope to promote strong bonds between people and their dogs by designing effective training programs and customized dog-owner interactions. According to researchers, these findings could serve as a foundation to explore personality matching between dogs and their owners and how that might improve the quality of their relationship.Dogvatar and the research team plan to conduct further research into potential uses for their dog personality testing algorithm.“This has been a really exciting breakthrough for us,” said Dogvatar CEO Piya Pettigrew. “This algorithm could greatly improve efficiency in working dog training and placement process and could help reduce the number of companion dogs brought back to shelters for not being compatible. It’s a win for both dogs and the people they serve.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Dog-Killing Flatworm Discovered in California

Fleas and ticks aren’t the only parasites that dog owners have to fear in southern California this summer. Scientists from the University of California, Riverside, are warning dog owners to keep their pooches out of the water this summer after they have discovered a potentially deadly parasite.A deadly flatworm species that has previously only existed in Texas and other Golf Coast states, has made its way to the west coast and is now present in the portion of the Colorado River that runs through California. The worm, Heterobilharzia americana, is a flatworm commonly known as the liver fluke. The parasite can cause canine schistosomiasis, an illness that affects the liver and intestine of dogs. Although treatment options are available once the dog becomes infected, they aren’t always effective leaving vets no other option than to euthanize the dog. “Dogs can die from this infection, so we are hoping to raise public awareness that it’s there,” said Adler Dillman, a nematology professor at the University of California, Riverside. “If you’re swimming in the Colorado River with them, your pets are in peril.” After learning about several cases of infection in local dogs, professor Dillman and his research team headed to Blythe, a border town in Riverside County. All of the sick dogs have spent time there, swimming in the river.Since snails are responsible for transmitting the infection, researchers collected more than 2,000 along the banks of the Colorado River. The team used DNA testing to identify the snails and the flatworm.The team was astonished to find not one, but two species of snail that can carry the parasite!“We actually found two species of snail that can support H. americana in the river in Blythe and we found both snails actively shedding this worm,” said Dillman, according to UC Riverside News. “Not only was it a surprise to find H. americana, we also didn’t know that the snails were present here.”The flatworm first makes its way into the snail's body, traveling through its system. Once transformed, it moves out to find a mammal host to infect. Without a host, the parasite can’t survive more than 24 hours on its own. Dogs and raccoons are particularly susceptible to becoming infected after coming into contact with water, whether from drinking or swimming in it. The worm gets inside the veins of the intestinal lining, where it develops into an adult and mates. The presence of adults in the veins isn’t as problematic as the eggs that get into the lungs, spleen, liver, and heart. The dog’s immune system reacts by forming clusters of cells, called granulomas. In time, the organ tissues stop functioning.It may take several months for a dog to show any signs of the infection. Symptoms start slowly and include loss of appetite, and progress to vomiting, diarrhea, profound weight loss, and signs of liver disease. “If your dog has these symptoms after swimming in the Colorado River, it’s a good precaution to ask your veterinarian for a simple fecal test,” said Emily Beeler, a veterinarian with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. “Treatment typically involves use of multiple medications and close monitoring of the dog by a veterinarian.”Although potentially deadly for our canine companions, this parasite can’t cause the same issues in humans. “ It can cause swimmers itch, a red rash where it penetrates human skin. But it’s not able to cause an infection,” Dillman explained.Steer clear of bodies of water that could contain infected snails to prevent your pooch from catching flatworms. If your pooch can’t resist taking a dip, monitor them for symptoms of flatworm infection in the weeks afterward. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Are Essential Oils Safe for Dogs?

Essential oils have a variety of uses and can be quite beneficial. And that’s not true for human use alone, as these natural oils found their way to the world of pets as well, and can be used to help eliminate a range of issues such as skin irritations, allergies, and fleas, and to boost the overall health of your dog’s coat. But, while there are plenty of pet products that contain essential oils, many owners are wondering: are essential oils really safe for dogs? It is a good question, so let’s try and find the right answer.Essential Oils for Dogs: The BasicsWhile some essential oils can be safe for dogs, it's important to use them with caution. Dogs have a more sensitive sense of smell than humans, so strong scents can be overwhelming, even if they are of natural origin. Certain essential oils, like lavender and chamomile, are generally considered safe in small amounts and when properly diluted. That being said, it is important to know what you are buying and to find essential oils that are made for pets especially. These are likely to be properly diluted and formulated to be safe for dogs. Essential oils can have various effects on dogs, both positive and negative. Some oils, like the aforementioned lavender and chamomile, may help with relaxation and anxiety, and help your pet sleep easier. On the other side, specific oils such as tea tree, citrus, and peppermint can be harmful to dogs and should be avoided.When using essential oils around dogs, it's crucial to dilute them properly. Always dilute essential oils before using them around your dog. Most experts recommend a ratio of 1:50, meaning one drop of essential oil to 50 drops of carrier oil. Of course, you should always observe your dog's reactions. Watch for signs of distress or discomfort in your dog when you introduce a new essential oil. If you notice any adverse reactions, stop using the oil immediately.Ultimately, you should be wary of the application methods you are using. Avoid applying essential oils directly to your dog's skin. Instead, diffuse them in the air or use a diffuser. You can also add a few drops to your dog's collar or bedding if the goal is to deter parasites. Needless to say, it goes a long way to properly familiarize yourself with essential oils and how they are used in the dog world. You can go in-depth with  a book that specializes in this topic, and gain the ultimate knowledge about these helpful oils before utilizing these natural products for your pet’s well-being. 

BARK Air Introduces a New Flight Tailored for Dogs

Onboard, they have carefully considered every aspect of air travel for dogs. For example, they serve all canine passengers their beverage of choice during ascent and descent to help prevent the discomfort often caused by cabin pressure changes. Of course, during the flight, your pup will be treated to a bit of pampering with dog-friendly snacks. “When we started BARK in 2011, we were on a mission to disrupt the dog space and create products designed for dogs and their humans. We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over the years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies,” explained BARK’s Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Matt Meeker. “We believe this initiative will elevate awareness of our brand’s mission and values, introduce more dog lovers to the BARK family, and help enrich the lives of dogs and their people around the world.” BARK Air will launch with limited routes from New York City’s Westchester County Airport (HPN) to Los Angeles’ Van Nuys Airport (VNY) and London, England’s Stansted Airport (STN). Dog parents are taking to social media, where the news is going viral, to express their excitement about the announcement. The first flights will take off on Thursday, May 23. Visit DogsFlyFirst.com for more information about BARK Air, available flights, and booking. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Is Pyoderma In Dogs?

The sight of an itchy dog often raises concerns among pet parents. From parasites, like fleas and ticks, to uncomfortable skin issues and irritation, the explanation is rarely a positive one. In some cases, even finding a cause is an uphill battle. One condition you may have read about or heard your veterinarian mention is pyoderma. But what is pyoderma, and what does this mean for your best friend? In this article, we will dive deep into the world of dog skin issues, uncovering not only the warning signs and possible causes of pyoderma in dogs but also the steps you can take to offer some much-needed relief from the itch and irritation. Let’s get started… What is Pyoderma? Pyoderma is a term used to refer to a bacterial skin infection, with the word literally translating to “pus (pyo) in the skin (derma).” It is one of the most common dog skin conditions. Luckily, it is also often easy to treat once it has been diagnosed. Most dogs recover fully with the proper medication. The condition is classified into one of three types based on its location in or on the skin. They include: Surface Pyoderma: infections on top of the skin’s surfaceSuperficial Pyoderma: infections in the outermost layer of the skin, including in the hair follicles (which may be referred to as superficial bacterial folliculitis)Deep Pyoderma: infections in the deeper layers of the skinThe condition itself isn’t always visible, making it sometimes difficult to spot. This is why it is so important for dog parents to familiarize themselves with the warning signs of skin irritation and seek veterinary help. They can do the tests necessary to look beyond what is visible to the naked eye. What Causes Pyoderma in Dogs? Every healthy dog has bacteria on the surface of their skin. When a dog’s skin becomes irritated for any reason, they respond by scratching at the spot. This creates openings in the layers of the skin where the bacteria can move deeper, creating the perfect environment for them to grow and thrive. There are several potential triggers for the initial irritation, including: Environmental or seasonal allergies Food allergies Flea allergy dermatitis Chronic exposure to moisture (like skin folds)Seborrhea Impaired blood flow to the skin Endocrine disorders (Hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease) It can also start when the skin is damaged due to an injury. Even a minor injury could cause just enough of an opening into the skin’s layers to begin the cycle. Is Dog Pyoderma Contagious to Humans? As this is a bacterial infection, it isn’t a risk of transmission like an airborne virus would be. Some strains of the bacteria can occasionally lead to an infection in humans or other dogs. However, the risk is incredibly low unless you have a compromised immune system. You can minimize the risk of transmission by focusing on keeping your home clean as your dog fights the infection. This includes regularly cleaning their food and water dishes as well as any bedding your dog sleeps on regularly. If you have an open wound, keep it covered when spending time with your infected dog.

Golden Retriever Nurses African Painted Dog Pups Rejected by Their Mom

The Potawatomi Zoo in South Bend, Indiana, recently welcomed a litter of eight endangered African painted dog puppies. After a rough start, only three puppies survived thanks to an unlikely surrogate mother - a golden retriever named Kassy.The Potawatomi Zoo announced that the pair of their African painted dogs, Bleu and Maurice, had a litter of eight puppies born in late September. However, it was soon clear to the care team at the zoo that the pack would not be able to raise the puppies successfully.“Bleu, an inexperienced mother, was not caring for her pups the way she should have, and Maurice was following her lead,” said the zoo. In their natural habitat, African painted dogs live in large packs with unique vocalizations and social dynamics. All adult dogs in the pack work together to help feed and raise the pups. The success of the birth and raising of the pups can be endangered if the pack doesn’t work together as they should. “We knew within 24 hours that we had to separate them,” the zoo’s executive director, Josh Sisk, told the South Bend Tribune. The zoo’s animal care staff consulted with the African Painted Dog Species Survival Plan (SSP), a group of zoo professionals who form the breeding plans for this endangered species in accredited zoos across the United States. The staff at zoos usually try to remain uninvolved, letting the packs raise the puppies as they would in the wild. This approach is often successful and helps the pups learn the complex social structure of their species. However, in this case, the decision was made to intervene and hand-raise the litter. Instead of bottle-feeding the puppies, the SSP recommended finding a surrogate dog to nurse the puppies. Within a few hours, the Indiana Council for Animal Welfare connected the zoo with a golden retriever named Kassy, who recently had a litter of puppies and had milk to spare. Kassy and her litter arrived at the zoo a day after the painted dog pups were born and immediately accepted them. The zoo’s staff watched as Kessy nursed and cared for the pups as if they were her own.“It was a crazy first month,” Sisk said. “Our team was there for four weeks, 24/7. We had a mattress next to the dogs.”The zoo’s veterinarian and care team worked around the clock to ensure that all of the puppies, including Kassy’s litter, were getting enough food and time with Kassy. However, despite everyone’s efforts, not all of the African painted dog pups survived. Four weeks after the litter was born, only three puppies remained. The surviving pups were named Blue, Red, and Orange for the colors staff used to track them since they were born. Originally, the zoo planned to reintegrate the pups with Bleu, Maurice, and Colby. However, the adult dogs didn’t show a positive interest in the pups, so the plan was changed. The zoo decided to build a home for the pups next to adult dogs, so they could still learn how to behave like painted dogs. Once the puppies get older they can either be integrated with Bleu, Maurice, and Colby or moved to another zoo.“Blue, Red, and Orange have had an unusual and challenging start to life, but the zoo hopes they will have a bright and successful future,” the zoo shared in a release. “These three healthy, active pups are just the start of this story and the zoo hopes to share more positive updates of their milestones in the future.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Family Dog Alerts Parents to a Teen’s Stroke and Saves His Life

Dogs are so deserving of their title – man’s best friend - and they continue to prove it day in and day out. From being our best friends to providing irreplaceable acts of service to people in need, there’s so much that dogs do that makes a difference and this story only proves it.The fateful event took place in Spring, Texas, where the family Tanner lives, alongside their precious pooch, Axel. Axel is a 1-year-old  border collie, a rescue that quickly became a cherished member of the family and, as life would have it, their savior. It was around 5 am on a calm Saturday morning when Axel – completely out of the ordinary – jolted Amanda and her husband from their sleep. And it was no regular attention-seeking behavior. Something was amiss, and Axel was determined to let the couple know.“He was pawing me more than normal to get me to move,” Mr. Tanner explains for  Today.com. Realizing that the dog was clearly trying to wake them, Amanda’s husband went downstairs to check on things and let the dog outside. Axel refused. It wasn’t the outdoors he was seeking - there was something else. He quickly stopped in front of the closed doors of the 17-year-old Gabriel Tanner. Mr. Tanner went inside to check up on his son but realized what was the cause of the dog’s panic. Young Gabriel was having a stroke, his speech was slurred, and he could not feel his right side. At once they rushed him to the emergency room at the Memorial Hermann the Woodlands Medical Center. Young Gabriel was quickly treated and made a recovery. Dr. Sabih Effendi, who treated him, says that “by waking the parents up, and leading them to the boy, the dog made a “massive” difference in Gabriel’s outcome”. “It’s very amazing that their dog alerted and started this whole process of getting everyone awake and going downstairs,” Effendi continues. “When somebody’s acutely having a stroke, the neurons are dying. … If he was not found and another three or four hours went by, there would have been more and more and more brain injury.”The Tanner family is extremely grateful to have had Axel by their side in this crucial moment. They can only wonder what would have happened if the dog wasn’t there. He practically saved Gabriel’s life. “We wouldn’t have thought to go into Gabriel’s room and wake him up. He’s a teenager. It was a Saturday morning. We went to bed late. We wouldn’t think to go in there until maybe noon,” Amanda says.Nowadays, Axel is a precious member of their family and tends to follow Gabriel wherever he goes. He also sleeps with the teen a lot more, always on the lookout for anything out of the ordinary. A true four-legged friend and proof that dogs can be loyal to no end! 

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.

Vegan Dogs and Cats? Maybe!

Pet food manufacturers have amped up the quality of the vegan options to meet industry standards for protein.

This Special Camera Reveals How Our Pets See the World Around Them

Have you ever wondered how your pet  sees the world around them? We all know that the eyes of dogs, cats, and all other animals are not the same as ours, and they often see the world in a very different way. While all we could do is imagine and theorize up until now, thanks to a new breakthrough in technology we will be able to take a peek through the eyes of animals!Scientists have  invented a special camera that uses a unique combination of state-of-the-art hardware and software, in order to create videos and images that show us exactly how certain animals see. For example, with this latest tech, you will be able to see the vivid world of colors that are seen through the eyes of birds and bees. One of the recent demonstrations revealed how a UV-sensitive vision of a bird renders an orange sulfur butterfly - the result is more than striking, as it doesn’t look like anything related to human vision.

How Cold is Too Cold for My Dog to Be Outside?

You might enjoy the magic of wintertime, but that doesn’t mean that your pooch shares your enthusiasm for cold weather – or the situation might be the exact opposite, with your four-legged bestie enjoying snowfall and you dreading the icy temperatures. Either way, you might be wondering if your pet needs some extra protection or different routines during winter – after all, some dogs are less suited for cold than others. So, it begs the question how cold is too cold for your dog, and should you even try going outside in these cases? There are several precautions you can take, but sometimes, you should be wary of extreme temperatures. Let’s delve deeper and learn more. How Cold is Too Cold for My Dog to Be Outside?The tolerance to cold weather can vary among individual dogs based on factors such as breed, size, coat type, age, and overall health. Generally, most dogs can tolerate cold weather to some extent, but there are certain conditions and temperatures where it becomes unsafe for them to be outside for extended periods. Of course, there will be some telltale signs that it’s just too cold to be outside. Signs that your dog may be too cold include shivering, whining, seeking shelter, lifting paws off the ground, or exhibiting signs of discomfort. If you notice any of these signs, it's time to bring your dog inside for some much-needed warmth.Of course, it’s essential to use your judgment and consider your dog's individual needs – you should always prioritize your dog's well-being in extreme weather conditions, but that will differ from dog to dog and climate to climate. Even so, there are some general guidelines for determining if it’s too cold outside for your pet – here’s what you need to know before taking them outside in really cold weather.Consider their coat length and breed: In winter, your pet’s coat can be a determining factor for outside time. Dogs with thick or double coats, such as  Siberian Huskies or  Alaskan Malamutes, may be more tolerant of cold temperatures than those with short coats, like Chihuahuas or Greyhounds. Some dogs were specially bred for living and working in cold environments, while some breeds were developed for completely opposite conditions. If your pet belongs to the latter group, it might be useful to invest in  a warm coat  designed to keep your dog toasty and warm during cold weather.

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