7 Common Symptoms Of Diabetes In Dogs

by Amy Tokic

Published: February 20th, 2014

Know the most common symptoms of diabetes in dogs

A common disease in humans, diabetes is now a growing concern in dogs. It’s important that owners are able to recognize the symptoms of diabetes in dogs in order to get their pooch into the veterinarian and treated right away. Here’s what you should be looking for:

Increased Appetite: Your dog’s stomach is a bottomless pit of hunger – if this isn’t a normal occurrence, it could be a sign of something a lot more serious. And even though your dog is eating a lot more, he’s not gaining any weight. This is one of the signs of diabetes in dogs.

Weight Loss: Even though your dog may be hungrier then ever, he’s losing weight. This sudden weight loss is a common signal that your dog may have diabetes, as this disease causes an increase in metabolism.

Excessive Thirst: Also known as polydipsia, you’ll notice that your dog is drinking more water. This is because your dog has an excess amount of glucose they can’t to process and the only way to get rid of it is by urinating.

Frequent Urination: If you notice more accidents (this can happen anywhere in the house or in the bed/crate) or more trips outside to go to the bathroom, this could be one of the early warning symptoms of diabetes in dogs.

Weak and Tired: Your dog just doesn’t want to play, walk or do much of anything anymore. He’s not lazy; he just may have one of diabetes calling cards, which causes a dog to be less active, sleepy and lethargic. As well, diabetes can also waste away a dog’s back muscles.

Vision Loss: Diabetes can cause the formation of cataracts or clouds in the eyes. Keep an eye out for this problem before it develops into blindness.

Loss Of Coat/Hair: Your dog’s once luxurious coat becomes lackluster and begins to fall out, usually starting along the back. You’ll notice that it becomes thin and dull before falling out. This could also be a symptom of other canine diseases, so be sure to mention other problems to your vet.

If your pooch is exhibiting these common symptoms of diabetes in dogs, please take him to the vet as soon as possible. Your vet will be able to confirm diagnose and develop a plan of treatment to ensure that your dog gets the best care possible and is able to live a normal, healthy life.

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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Most commonly seen in large-breed dogs, musculoskeletal problems can put a lot of stress on your dog’s bones or joints. Here are the seven most common issues to look out for. Musculoskeletal problems are some of the most common health problems seen in dogs – especially for large and giant breeds. These conditions can affect any of the dog’s bones or joints, though some conditions are more common than others. Keep reading to learn about the 7 most common musculoskeletal issues in dogs. Degeneration of the Shoulders In a dog, the shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint in which a ligament connects two bones at the joint – conditions affecting this joint are some of the most common causes for lameness in dogs. Symptoms of shoulder degeneration in dogs may include decreased muscle mass and chronic lameness that worsens with activity. It is usually caused by the abnormal development of bone and cartilage and it usually presents between 3 and 7 years of age. Related: All About Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs Hypertrophic Dog Arthritis Also known as hypertrophic osteodystrophy, hypertrophic arthritis in dogs most commonly affects large and giant breeds – you may know of it as “growing pains”. The origins of the disease are unknown which, unfortunately, makes treatment a little tricky. Treatments for this condition are usually supportive in nature, including things like anti-inflammatories and painkillers. Knee Dysplasia More commonly known as patellar luxation, this is a condition in which the kneecap slips out of place in the joint. Though knee dysplasia may not immediately cause pain, repeated dislocation can lead to arthritis which can become painful. Symptoms may include abnormal hind limb movement or a skipping gait which may progress to lameness over time. Medical treatment is typically ineffective but surgery is only recommended for severe cases. Related: What Is Hip Dysplasia In Dogs? Osteochondrosis Osteochondrosis typically affects the shoulder joint in dogs and it is most commonly seen in large and giant breeds. This condition often manifests in the form of a lesion that grows on the humeral head, causing the cartilage to thicken abnormally which may lead to degeneration. Causes for this condition may be genetically linked, though rapid growth and nutrient deficiencies may contribute as well. Symptoms usually develop between 4 and 8 months of age and, in many cases, surgical intervention is the only treatment option. Osteoarthritis Also known as degenerative joint disease (DJD), osteoarthritis is the progressive deterioration of the cartilage around the joints. There is no known cause for osteoarthritis for primary cases, though secondary DJD can be caused by abnormal development, dislocation of the knee or shoulder, and abnormal development of the cartilage. Symptoms may include stiffness, reduced activity, or lameness and treatment is usually aimed at alleviating symptoms and slowing the progression. Elbow Dysplasia Commonly seen in large-breed puppies who grow too fast, elbow dysplasia is actually a syndrome that may include elbow incongruity, osteochondrosis, and fragmentation of the coronoid process. In other words, it is characterized by abnormal growth or anatomy in the elbow. Symptoms may include an obvious limp or inability to put weight on the leg. Treatment may involve anti-inflammatory drugs and, in severe cases, surgery. Hip Dysplasia One of the most common musculoskeletal disorders in dogs – especially large and giant breeds – hip dysplasia occurs when the femoral head slips out of its place in the hip socket. This condition may cause joint laxity in the early stages but can progress to joint degeneration and osteoarthritis in the later stages. It is often genetically inherited, though it can be exacerbated by obesity and nutritional deficiencies. If your dog starts to display symptoms of any of these conditions, do not delay in contacting your veterinarian. For some of these diseases, symptoms do not present until the condition is advanced so your options for treatment may already be limited.

Let’s Talk About Pancreatitis In Dogs

A disease that’s hard to digest, pancreatitis in dogs requires a total change in lifestyle and careful monitoring. Over the years our pets have come to hold a special place in our family, and as such, we have become in-tune to their moods, their preferences and to when they are not feeling up to par. In spite of our efforts to ensure they enjoy a healthy, well-rounded diet, special treats can sometimes sneak their way into the dog dish and these oft too frequent indulgences can become problematic. While research is still trying to confirm why some dogs are afflicted while others are not, fatty meals like bacon grease or table scraps can trigger a condition known as pancreatitis. Pancreatitis in dogs occurs when the pancreas – an organ near the stomach that helps digest food and control blood sugar – becomes inflamed. And for dogs who are already overweight, have diabetes or epilepsy, the prognosis can be poor. Related: 7 Common Symptoms Of Diabetes In Dogs What Causes Pancreatitis in Dogs? Our pancreas is responsible for producing hormones such as insulin and enzymes that are needed for food digestion. Pancreatitis is caused by an increase in enzyme secretion – typically as the result of a stimulus such as the aforementioned treats or table scraps but also by trauma, drugs or toxins. When your dog’s digestive enzymes are released too quickly they begin to act on the actual pancreas as opposed to the food they would normally digest. The resulting inflammation can be “acute” (sudden) or “chronic” (recurring) but once the process begins, it cannot correct itself and requires an immediate visit to your vet. Related: Do I Have A Fat Dog? How To Tell If Your Dog Is Overweight Why some dogs are prone to pancreatitis while others are not is still unknown. Experts have identified breeds such as Miniature Schnauzers, Cocker Spaniels and Terriers as being more susceptible along with older or overweight dogs and those with previous gastrointestinal ailments. However it can also be idiopathic – meaning there is no obvious cause. Symptoms and Types of Pancreatitis in Dogs Similar to other stomach and intestinal afflictions, pancreatitis in dogs can present as vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, fever, dehydration and just an overall lack of energy. Vomiting is the most common symptom but if your pet has exhibited any of these signs for more than 24 hours or if they recur, it’s time to get him checked out. It is a complex illness and while dogs usually recover from mild cases, in the “acute” form it can be fatal, triggering a buildup of fluid in the chest, abdomen and acute renal failure. The “chronic” or recurring form of pancreatitis can be present even though there are no clinical signs of the disease. In some instances, damage caused by pancreatitis can result in diabetes that may be temporary or permanent depending on the severity of the damage. Treatment Options and Prevention In an ideal world, your vet would be able to make a diagnosis based on symptoms alone. Typically this would require blood tests or an ultrasound and if an actual cause is determined – such as a reaction to a drug or to diet – it may be as simple as taking your pet off the drug or putting him on prescription food. However there are times when a diagnosis can be inconclusive, meaning there’s no clear treatment. In those instances the focus becomes keeping your pet as comfortable as possible until the attack passes. This might include no food, water, or medications by mouth in order to give the pancreas time to rest and for dog with severe cases, a hospital stay with IV fluids may be required. Once home, your dog will need to be kept hydrated and may require pain medication as well as drugs to help ease nausea and vomiting. When your dog starts eating again, it’s time to take a “tough love” approach to his diet. A low-fat, easy to digest format can be recommended by your vet and should be considered a long-term if not life-long approach to ensuring he continues to be a part of your family for many years to come. You should also consider swapping out treats of food with treats in the form of a favorite activity… and always be sure to secure your kitchen garbage to keep those self-help pets at bay!

Pestnostics’ At-Home Urine Test Alerts You to Common Pet Illnesses

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BARK Air Introduces a New Flight Tailored for Dogs

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What to Do If Your Dog Ingested Something They Shouldn't?

It’s no secret dogs are nosy – especially when they suspect food is involved. They’ll have no problem jumping on the counter, digging through trash, or “sneakily” stealing stuff off your coffee table if given a chance. Not only that this type of behavior can be really irritating for the owner, but it is also downright dangerous. Dogs can easily swallow something that could cause serious health issues – a tiny object that can cause choking, a hazardous chemical, or some human food that is poisonous to them. In either of these cases, the owner should be prepared and alert as acting quickly is crucial when your pet eats something that they shouldn’t have. But what exactly do you need to do if this happens? What is the course of action to help a dog who ingested something they simply should not? Let’s go over it.What to Do If Your Dog Ingested Something They Shouldn't: Step By Step ExplainedIf your dog has ingested something they shouldn't have, it's important to act quickly. Every second counts in this case so don’t panic even if that’s your first instinct. Going into panic mode never helps and can only make things worse. Instead, try to assess the situation and figure out what has been ingested so you can act accordingly. Here are some general guidelines to follow, but keep in mind that you should always consult with your veterinarian for advice tailored to your specific situation.It is imperative to stay calm. It's understandable to feel scared and panicked, but it's crucial to stay composed. Panicking can make it difficult to think clearly and take appropriate action. Take a deep breath, strengthen your resolve and act.Always try to identify the substance or item ingested, if it’s possible to do so very quickly. This information can be helpful for your veterinarian to provide accurate advice. Do you notice any small objects missing? Any open containers or something similar? Quickly try to find the clues.It goes without saying that it is always crucial to call your veterinarian immediately. Provide them with details about what your dog ingested, the amount, and any symptoms your dog is experiencing. After all, they are professionals who know how to deal with these situations in an efficient manner and will give you the guidelines suited to your situation.Keep in mind not to induce vomiting. Inducing vomiting can be dangerous in some situations and should only be done under the guidance of a veterinarian. Certain substances or items can cause more harm if brought back up. Unless instructed otherwise, don’t do it.Disperse with the panic and fears, and follow the advice of your veterinarian to the letter. Your veterinarian will provide specific instructions based on the substance ingested. Follow their advice carefully, whether it involves inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal, or other measures.It is important to monitor your dog and their behavior. Keep a close eye on them for any changes in behavior, signs of distress, or dangerous symptoms. Be prepared to provide this information to your veterinarian. Sometimes, nothing will show at first, but could later on. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend immediate action, such as going to an emergency veterinary clinic. Follow their advice promptly, or if you see that your dog is in danger, do so as fast as possible.

The US National Park Service is Being Sued Over Stray Cats

The US National Park Service was sued by a non-profit organization due to its controversial plan to remove the famous stray cats of Puerto Rico, a historic district in the US territory. The lawsuit was filed by  Alley Cat Allies, a non-profit based in Maryland, and it comes four months after the radical announcement that left many in shock. The Federal agency revealed that it would contract an animal welfare organization to remove around 200 stray cats that live in Puerto Rico’s historic seaside fortress in Old San Juan. What the organization still hasn’t decided upon is whether the captured stray cats would be placed in foster homes, kept in shelters, adopted, or face a different fate. What is more, the federal agency did not reveal if a third-party organization has been hired yet. The National Park Service also added that it would hire a “removal agency” if the organization it contracted ultimately failed to remove the cats within a six-month period. The news caught many by surprise, as many locals – and tourists alike – loved the cats, and many considered them a delight and a local attraction. Alas, many considered the cats a nuisance too, as the National Park Service stated in a report in 2022 that the cat population in the city had grown out of proportions and that the smell of feces and urine in the area was becoming too strong.The announcement of their plan roused many animal rights activists, who say that six months is not enough to remove such a great number of cats. They fear that, as a result, many cats would be killed. Ultimately, the Alley Cat Allies filed its lawsuit in an effort to ensure the best possible outcome for the felines in question. They requested additional environmental statements from the National Park Service, and asked that “a judge find its actions allegedly violate acts including the National Environmental Protection Act.” It remains to be seen what will be the fate of these kitties – but one can only hope they won’t be harmed in the process. 

Is Aquarium Salt Safe for Plants?

All those in love with the fascinating world of aquatics know how sensitive and (sometimes) demanding pet fish and  aquarium plants are. The aquarium plant life in particular can be very vulnerable, reacting to the smallest changes in the tank’s environment. Naturally, this begs the question: could adding salt to your tank potentially kill its plant life? Or is salt beneficial for your aquarium’s flora? These are the questions that need to be answered carefully, as there are different types of salt used, and not all have the same effects on the many different aquarium plants. Let’s dive deeper into the topic!Is Aquarium Salt Safe for Plants? Aquarium salt, when used properly, has many uses in an aquarium setting. It can help with certain issues like treating fish diseases and promoting electrolyte balance in fish. But what about plants? The key to using salt with aquarium plants is moderation and research. There are different types of salt on the market, so you should inquire about their properties and possible effects on fish and plants. Secondly, always use it in moderation. When used in the right amounts, salt can be beneficial. However, the excessive use of salt can be harmful to plants, as it can disrupt their osmotic balance and lead to dehydration or nutrient imbalances. In fact, put too much of it, and you can kill all the plants AND the fish in the tank!But what is the osmotic balance? Like all living organisms, plants maintain a delicate balance of water and salts within their cells. When exposed to high concentrations of salt, such as those found in aquarium salt products, plants can experience “osmotic stress”. This stress occurs because the salt outside the plant's roots creates a higher concentration of solutes in the soil than inside the plant cells. As a result, water is drawn out of the plant, leading to dehydration and potential damage – and even death.Excessive salt in the aquarium soil can also interfere with a plant's ability to absorb essential nutrients. Sodium ions, which are a component of salt, can compete with other positively charged ions like potassium, calcium, and magnesium that plants need for healthy growth. This competition can disrupt nutrient uptake and lead to deficiencies, even if those nutrients are present in the soil.Another confusing factor is that some aquarium plants are much more tolerant than others. Halophytes, for example, are plants that have evolved to thrive in saline environments and can withstand higher levels of salt in the soil and water. However, most freshwater aquarium plants are not adapted to high-salt conditions and can suffer greatly when aquarium salt is introduced to the tank. You should also consider the types of salt available. Sea salt, for example, is much different and more complex than ordinary table salt. It contains sodium chloride, and minerals like potassium, zinc, and calcium. As such, it is only suitable for use in aquariums that have marine fish and  invertebrates, and plants naturally occurring in salt waters. 

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Human-Cat Amputee Duo Teams Up To Help Others Through Animal Therapy

Juanita Mengel from Amanda, Ohio, and her five-year-old dilute tortoiseshell cat Lola-Pearl, make a unique therapy team. The 67-year-old Mengel is missing a leg, and her fluffy feline is missing a left hind leg. This special duo is one of an estimated 200 therapy cat teams registered in the US through Pet Partners. This nonprofit organization puts together owners and their pets as volunteer teams. They aim to provide animal-assisted therapy in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. “A therapy animal is an animal who’s been assessed based on their ability to meet new people and not just tolerate the interaction but actively enjoy it,” said Taylor Chastain Griffin, the national director of animal-assisted interventions advancement at Pet Partners. This organization registered nine different species of animals as therapy animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, birds, horses, mini pigs, alpacas, and lamas. Therapy cats are less common than therapy dogs, and people are often surprised to see cats in this role. However, Griffin studies the impact of therapy cats and emphasizes the importance of cats in therapy teams. There’s a lot of research on other therapy animals, especially dogs, so there is often a ‘shock factor’ associated with therapy cats because many people don’t know these felines exist. “They go into a setting and people are like ‘Whoa, there’s a cat on a leash. What’s happening?’” said Griffin. According to her, cats inspire people to connect to them in a way that’s not seen with other kinds of therapy animals. Juanita Mengel knew that her cat Lola-Pear would be an excellent therapy animal a month after she adopted her. The feline’s therapeutic potential became clear after Mengel took her to an amputee conference. “She was so good with people I just knew she would be a good therapy cat,” said Mengel. “People really were attracted to her, too.”During a recent limb loss support group, Mengel pushed Lola-Pearl around in a cat stroller labeled “Therapy Cat’, so participants could pet the cat as she woke from a nap. When she wasn’t sitting in a stroller, Lola-Pearl could be found brushing against participants’ legs or cuddling in their laps, bringing a smile to the face of every person she decided was worthy of her company. “She’s very intuitive of people,” said Mengel.Although Lola-Pearl is very special, she isn’t the only cat Mengel owns. Mengel, who lost her leg after years of surgeries following a near-fatal car accident, is a mom to seven cats, most of whom have disabilities. “They find you, you don’t find them,” she added.Lola-Pearl was only a few weeks old when she was found with her back legs completely twisted together. The kitten was unable to walk and was brought to Mengel’s friend at a shelter in Missouri. Unfortunately, the vets there couldn’t help the feline. The shelter located a specialist in Iowa who was able to splint Lola-Pearl’s legs in order to save them. However, it was clear that the left hind leg was beyond saving and the vets decided to amputate. Mengel adopted Lola-Pearl after she recovered from the surgery and they formed the unique therapy team. After everything Mengel has been through, she is extremely grateful for Lola-Pearl and appreciates all the good work they do together. “It’s a really rewarding experience,” she said. “I get just as much out of it as the people that I visit.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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International travel with your best friend by your side can be an exciting adventure, but navigating the rules and regulations for crossing the border can feel daunting.Whether you’re heading to Canada for a pet-friendly weekend getaway or attending a Canadian pet show or expo, ensuring that you meet all the needs for crossing the border with your furry friend will set you up for a smooth journey.Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about traveling with your pet across the US/Canada border.In this guide, we’ll cover essential documentation, tips to set yourself up for a stress-free crossing and answer some of the most common questions about pet-friendly international travel.Can You Drive Across the Canadian Border with a Dog (or Cat)?If your next pet-friendly road trip will take you across the border into Canada, you’re in luck. Pet parents can drive from the United States to Canada with the whole family, including their furry family members, if they have the necessary paperwork.Entering Canada may be more complicated if your dog is coming from any country other than the United States. This is due to the concern of rabies, which causes some countries to face restrictions. If your dog has recently been to another country, it is recommended that you look further into the requirements for traveling from that area or ask your veterinarian.What Do I Need to Cross the US Border into Canada with My Dog?When traveling to Canada with your dog, the documentation required will depend on their age.If your dog is 3 months old or older, you must provide a rabies vaccination certificate to cross the border. This document must be issued by a licensed veterinarian and show that your dog received a rabies vaccine within 3 years of the date you are crossing.The rabies vaccination certificate must include the following: Your name and address A description of your dog (breed, sex, age, color, markings, etc.)Date of rabies vaccination Vaccine product informationVaccination expiry date Name, address, license number, and signature of the veterinarian who administered the vaccinePuppies under 3 months of age are not required to provide proof of a rabies vaccine. However, border security may ask for proof of your dog’s age.Are the Rules Different for Cats or Other Pets?All cats over the age of 3 months must be accompanied by a rabies vaccination certificate showing that the vaccine was administered within 3 years of the date of travel. Kittens under 3 months old are exempt from this requirement.The requirements for ferrets to cross the border are similar. However, the rabies vaccination certificate must show that the vaccine was administered within 12 months of the travel date.Any pet parents traveling with a bird must complete a “ Veterinary Health Certificate for Export of Pet Birds from the United States of America to Canada.” This form details important information for your upcoming travel, including the number of birds you can travel with, depending on their species.Do you have a pet that we haven’t addressed? More information can be found on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website.

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How to Tell Your Cats Are About to Fight, According to Scientists

Have you ever wondered if your cats are play fighting or fighting for real? People living in multi-cat households know that the occasional scuffle or a full-blown cat fight is bound to happen. However, many cat owners have a hard time figuring out whether their cats are fighting or roughhousing. A new study published in Scientific Reports can provide some clues. As it turns out, certain behaviors could indicate whether an interaction between two felines is friendly, aggressive, or something in between. In this study, scientists, including Noema Gajdoš-Kmecová from the University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Slovakia, analyzed 105 videos of interactions between 210 cats. The videos were obtained directly from cat owners and YouTube. After watching around one-third of the videos, Gajdoš-Kmecová pinpointed six types of specific behaviors, including wrestling, chasing, staying still, vocalizing, interactive, and non-interactive activities. She then watched all the videos again to see which cats exhibited one of these specific behaviors and for how long. After running a statistical analysis, Gajdoš-Kmecová was able to identify three distinctive types of interactions between the cat pairs - playful, intermediate, and aggressive. To confirm her findings, other members of the research team also watched the videos and classified each interaction between cats. Over half of the cats from the videos, 56% to be exact, exhibited playful interactions. According to the study, playful interactions included wrestling and a lack of vocalization. About 29% were labeled as agonistic, meaning they exhibited any type of social behavior that included threatening, aggression, and submission. Cats in this group vocalized and exhibited recurring bouts of inactivity.The cats in the intermediate group were involved in both aggressive and playful encounters. According to researchers, this group showed prolonged exchanges of specific behaviors, like laying on the back with the belly exposed, pouncing, stalking, and grooming each other. Scientists believe that this mixture of playful and aggressive behavior may be a sign of short-term friction between the cats rather than the end of the relationship. “This might escalate into a fully agonistic encounter but does not necessarily reflect a breakdown in their social relationship but rather a short-term disagreement in social priorities,” researchers wrote in the study. This study is the first to apply a scientific approach to cat behavior that can be identified by experienced and first-time owners alike. Thanks to this study, scientists can now classify inter-cat interactions as either playful, agonistic, or intermediate. “Wrestling can be a sign of a fight but if it comes with bouts of inactivity then that often means it is playful,” explained Profesor Daniel Mills, who led the study.“Playfighting is also without vocalizations. That’s the profile of a friendly cat. The agonistic cat, they might not do as much wrestling with inactivity but they do lots of vocalization.”“Owners should keep an eye out on how much they are wrestling and whether or not they’re vocalizing. Vocalizing can be broad and include meowing and also yowling,” he added. We all know when cats are fighting fur real, but it’s important to recognize intermediate interactions, where things could end in play or escalate into a real fight. “A lot of cats end up at cat rescue centers because the owners think that they’ve fallen out. In the clinic, I’ve seen cats that are playing and the owner thinks it’s a real fight,” said Professor Mills. If your cats are really getting along (share food and toys and sleep together), an occasional bout of agonistic play is okay. But if your cats aren’t the best of friends, you should look for signs of agonistic behavior. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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How Can I Reduce My Dog's Environmental Pawprint?

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

Organizations Donate Free Food to Help Owners Keep Pets

The high cost of living forces many pet owners to consider rehoming their pets.

Should My Dog Wear a Winter Coat?

As the temperatures drop and winter approaches, many pet parents face a common question: Should my dog wear a winter coat? It’s a valid question! After all, we bundle up before heading out into the ice and snow. Why shouldn’t our dogs? This article will explore the considerations, benefits, and potential downsides of winter coats for dogs. Plus, we’ll share the coats we use to keep our pups warm and cozy. Let’s get started… Do All Dogs Need a Coat in Winter? The short answer is no. Not all dogs need a winter coat to stay comfortable in the colder temperatures. In fact, some dogs will be more comfortable without a winter coat. That leaves us with one more question – how do you know if your dog will need a coat this season? Here are a few factors to consider: Breed & Coat LengthWhat breed or breed mix is your dog? Some dogs, like the Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, and Keeshond, were specifically bred to handle the colder temperatures. These dogs have thick double coats, including a water-resistant guard coat and a plush, warm undercoat. If you own one of these dogs, you may see them relaxing outside, happily napping in a snowbank. They thrive in cooler weather but struggle when the temperatures climb. On the other end of the spectrum, some dogs were bred to live in warmer climates. These dogs have short coats, offering little protection from the winter cold. Age Your dog’s age could make them more sensitive to changes in temperature, both heat and cold. If you have a young puppy or a senior dog, they may need a little extra care and attention. Not only do they feel cold faster, but the low temperatures could worsen the discomfort of a senior dog’s arthritis or other joint problems. Even if your dog once thrived in cold temperatures, they may struggle in their older years.Disease or Illness If your dog is currently living with a disease or illness, it can compromise their ability to regulate their body temperature effectively. Your dog’s condition can impact many aspects of their well-being. It may weaken their immune system, causing dehydration or interfering with proper circulation. Contact your veterinarian if you’re unsure whether your dog’s illness could impact their ability to handle the cold. Activity LevelAre you heading outside to hang out in your yard, or are you planning to engage in something more active like a hike or skijoring? As your dog’s muscles are engaged and working, they are producing heat that raises the body temperature. If your dog occasionally needs a light jacket, they may not need one during heavy activity. On the other hand, if your dog is usually okay when you’re going for a walk, they may need a light jacket or sweater if they are going to be standing around.

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