Naturally Safe Mosquito Repellent For Dogs

by Kate Barrington

Published: August 14th, 2014

naturally safe mosquito repellent for dogs

Scratch-free tips on keeps those pesky mosquitoes away from your dog

Though summer is a wonderful time to spend outdoors, there are certain drawbacks that come along with the nice weather. One of the most annoying parts of summer is the return of mosquitoes. You may not realize it because his body is protected by a thick coat of fur, but mosquitoes can be just as much a nuisance to your dog as they are to you. In addition to biting your dog, mosquitoes can also carry dangerous diseases, particularly heartworm. If you want to protect your dog from mosquitoes this summer, consider some of these dog-safe mosquito repellent products and tips.

Natural Lemon Mosquito Repellent

While you may be able to find commercial mosquito repellents that are marketed for dogs, there are always risks involved when using commercial bug sprays around your pet. If you prefer to avoid those risks entirely, you can create your own dog-friendly mosquito repellent with lemons and water. Lemon is a natural insect repellent due to its strong scent – though this scent annoys mosquitoes, it will leave your dog smelling fresh. To create your own mosquito repellent, follow the steps below:

Cut a fresh lemon in half and rub the fruit into your dog’s fur.
Avoid getting any lemon juice in your dog’s nose, ears or eyes and be careful around open wounds and cuts.

As an alternative, you can also create a mosquito-repelling spray for your dog:

Cut six lemons in half and place them in a large pot.
Add 1 quart (4 cups) of water and bring the liquid to a boil.
Remove from heat and let the lemon steep in the hot water for 2 hours then let it cool to room temperature.
Strain the liquid to remove the lemons and any pulp.
Pour the liquid into a spray bottle and spritz it liberally over your dog’s fur, avoiding his face.
Spray your hand with liquid and apply it carefully to your dog’s face, avoiding the eyes.
Repeat the application every 2 to 3 hours if your dog will be outside all day.

Preventing Exposure to Mosquitoes

If you are taking your dog somewhere he is likely to be exposed to mosquitoes, the mosquito repellent options listed above will be helpful to have on hand. In your yard at home, however, there are a few things you might want to do to reduce the number of mosquitoes that congregate there. Follow these tips to ensure that your yard is not attractive to mosquitoes:

Remove anything from your yard that might collect water – mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so if there isn’t any available in your yard they are unlikely to gather there
Clean out your gutters to remove debris that might collect and clog the downspouts, causing water to collect in the gutters
Change the water in your bird bath often (at least once a week) to prevent it from becoming a mosquito breeding ground
Water your lawn and garden in the morning so that it dries throughout the day and water does not collect
Treat ornamental ponds with biorational larvicides to prevent mosquitoes from using them to breed – these products will not harm your plants or fish

In addition to taking these precautions, you should also avoid taking your dog outside during peak mosquito hours – dawn, dusk and early evening. Make sure to keep doors and windows in your house closed (or use a tight-fitting screen) to prevent mosquito from entering your home. These precautions, combined with natural mosquito repellents should be adequate to protect your dog from mosquitoes all summer long.

Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

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7 Natural Essential Oils For Dogs

It’s not new-age nonsense – essential oils for dogs offer a variety of health benefits when used properly. Essential oils are the concentrated liquid found in plants that contain the aromatic compounds. These oils are said to contain the “essence” of the plant and they can provide a number of health benefits. Essential oils play an important role in aromatherapy and other alternative medicine practices for humans, but they can also be used for dogs. These natural remedies are a great solution for those that are looking to address minor health concerns ranging from skin conditions and arthritis to anxiety and depression. Some pet owners even use essential oils to create their own natural flea and tick prevention in place of the chemical-heavy options that are commercially available. While there isn’t a lot of scientific research available regarding the effectiveness of essential oils, their growing popularity has been fueled by the many positive experiences shared by those that have chosen to go this route. If you are going to incorporate essential oils into your dog’s care, especially for the treatment of health conditions, it is recommended that you consult with a holistic veterinarian. These professionals are knowledgeable about the most up to date information available regarding the use of essential oils and how to use them effectively as part of a larger care plan. The Risks of Essential Oils Before moving onto to discuss which essential oils you should consider for your dog’s health and well-being, we should take a moment to discuss the potential risks and concerns. The term ‘natural’ does not necessarily mean that a product is safe. There are many oils that are dangerous and toxic for your dog. This includes some oils that are safe for human use but not for our pets. Essential oils are extremely potent, meaning just a few drops can have a major impact. A high dosage could cause long-term health problems when metabolized by the liver, especially for older dogs, dogs with liver disease and young puppies. Don’t forget that your dog has an incredibly strong sense of smell. This means that any essential oils being diffused will be significantly stronger for them. You may find the scent level to be tolerable, but that may not be your dog’s experience. If you use too much, it may even have the exact opposite effect on your pup. For example, a strong diffusion of an oil for stress or anxiety relief could cause your dog stress. This isn’t to say that you can’t or shouldn’t use essential oils. However, it highlights the importance of gathering the necessary knowledge before you get started! Signs of Oil Toxicity in Dogs If you are going to use essential oils on or around your dog, you should familiarize yourself with the signs of oil toxicity (or essential oil poisoning) and how to react appropriately. Common signs of oil toxicity include excessive drooling, trouble walking (staggering or stumbling), weakness, difficulty breathing, vomiting, and skin irritation. The moment that you notice any of these signs, you should remove exposure to the oil. For oils that have been applied topically, you should wash the area to remove as much as possible. If you have been diffusing an oil, turn off the diffuser and get your dog outside or to fresh air. Call your veterinarian and explain in detail your concerns including what oil(s) you were using and how you were using it. They will let you know how to best proceed. Related: 6 Natural Flea Remedies For Dogs Check Out These 7 Dog-Friendly Natural Essential Oils Below you will find a list of seven essential oils that are safe for dogs as well as a brief description of their use. 1. Chamomile There are two types of chamomile essential oil – German and Roman. German chamomile has anti-inflammatory benefits which can be good for your dog’s skin and coat – it may help to reduce allergic reactions. Roman chamomile helps to calm nerves and it may also reduce teething pain, cramps, and muscle pain. Our choice: Healing Solutions Organic Chamomile German Essential Oil

A Pet Parent’s Guide To Heartworm Treatments

What is it, what should you look for and your options for heartworm treatments Your dog is more than just a pet – he is a member of the family. That’s why you should do everything you can to protect him from preventable illnesses. Unfortunately, many dog owners do not know about some of the dangers that could affect their dogs and are thus unable to protect them. One of the dangers about which pet owners are largely under-educated is heartworm. Let’s go over the basics about what heartworm is, how and why you should protect your dog, and the heartworm treatments available to you. What is Heartworm? Heartworm is a parasitic organism called Dirofilaria immitis that infects the heart and pulmonary arteries. These tiny organisms travel through the dog’s bloodstream, damaging arteries and organs as they go along, until they reach the lung and heart chamber. This journey typically takes about six months to complete and as many as several hundred of these organisms can live in your dog for as long as seven years. Related: Naturally Safe Mosquito Repellent For Dogs The most common way heartworm is transmitted is through mosquito bites when the blood from an infected animal is transmitted to a healthy animal. In order for an infestation to occur, the animal must carry at least one male and one female heartworm so they can reproduce. The babies produced by female heartworms are called microfilariae and they can be present in an animal’s bloodstream without causing an infection – they must first be taken up by a mosquito. Once taken up by a mosquito, the microfilariae develop into larvae over a two-week period after which they are capable of causing an infection when transmitted through the blood into a healthy animal. Signs and Symptoms Perhaps the most dangerous thing about heartworm is that it may take several months for a dog to even begin to show signs of the disease – at this point the disease is likely in the late stages and treatment may not be effective. Some of the signs of heartworm infection include labored breathing, vomiting, coughing, weight loss and fatigue. A heartworm infection can only truly be diagnosed by ultrasound and blood tests administered by a qualified veterinarian. Related: The Shocking Truth About Dogs and Garlic If your dog does get heartworm there are several treatment options available – how well they will work depends on the progression of the disease, however. In most cases, treatment involves the injection of drugs called adulticides into the dogs muscle to kill the parasites. This treatment generally requires hospitalization though, in some cases, it can be performed on an outpatient basis. After treatment, dogs are required to undergo several weeks of exercise restriction. Heartworm Treatments: Prevention/Protection Though heartworm is a dangerous and often fatal disease, the good news is that it is entirely preventable. Giving your dog a monthly pill is all you need to do to protect him from heartworm. You will need a vet’s prescription for the pill and you can also consider a topical preventive as an alternative to the pill if you prefer. Some dog owners choose to only treat their dogs during mosquito season but it is generally recommended that you provide treatment all year round. If you aren’t already treating your dog with a monthly heartworm preventive, talk to your veterinarian about it as soon as possible. Dogs under six months of age can be started in the preventive immediately but dogs older than that must first undergo a screening to make sure they don’t already have the disease before starting them on the preventive medication. Heartworm is a dangerous condition and one that can be fatal for your dog if it goes undetected. Do yourself and your dog a favor by preventing this condition with simple monthly medication – you won’t regret it.

5 Heartworm Facts You Need To Know

April is Heartworm Awareness Month, and we wanted to start it off with these interesting heartworm facts that all pet parents should know. Heartworm is a serious disease that affects both dogs and cats. This disease is extremely dangerous and, if it is not treated properly, it is often fatal. You may already know the basics about this disease but the more you know, the better equipped you will be to prevent it or, in the worst case scenario, fight it. Here are just a few interesting heartworm facts that you may not know. Related: A Pet Parent’s Guide To Heartworm Treatments 1. Heartworm can ONLY be transmitted by mosquitoes. When a mosquito bites a dog or cat that is already infected with heartworm, it picks up some of the baby worms – these microscopic worms are called microfilaria. Over a period of 10 to 14 days, then, the microfilaria develop into larvae – this is the infective stage of the disease. After this point, if the mosquito bites a dog or cat, it will transfer some of the infective larvae and the larvae will develop over the next six months into adult heartworms. 2. Different mosquitoes carry heartworm at different times of year. There are 22 species of mosquito in the United States that have been identified which can carry heartworm. These species of mosquito are active at different times of day and during different times of the year, so your dog is at risk for contracting heartworm all year round, not just during the spring and summer when mosquitos are most active. Related: Naturally Safe Mosquito Repellent For Dogs 3. Your dog could test negative for heartworm but still carry the disease. It takes about six months after a heartworm-carrying mosquito bites your dog for the infective larvae to develop into adults. During that time, the larvae travel through your dog’s blood stream to the heart and lungs where they develop and mature – at this point they will also start reproducing which means that your dog could begin infecting other dogs. 4. There is only ONE approved treatment for heartworm in dogs and none for cats. The only approved treatment for heartworm is a drug called Immiticide. This drug is arsenic-based and it must be given via injection two or three times to kill adult heartworms living in the blood vessels of the infected dog. This treatment also requires extensive X-rays, blood work, and other tests to determine the severity of the infection. Treatments can cost anywhere between $300 and $1,000. 5. Treating heartworm is 15x MORE EXPENSIVE than preventing it. Heartworm prevention is as simple as giving your dog a monthly pill, but treatment can be much more difficult. Dogs should be tested for heartworm once a year and they must be tested before starting heartworm prevention pills. Puppies younger than seven months can be started on a heartworm pill without being tested but they should be tested six months later. Having learned a little bit more about this disease from our heartworm facts list, you should now be able to appreciate how serious it is. Unfortunately, many dogs that are infected with heartworm fail to show clinical signs until the disease has progressed into a very serious state. To keep your dog healthy, make sure to have him tested once a year and keep up with your monthly heartworm preventive pills.

How Do Dogs Get Heartworm?

It’s a potentially deadly disease that can be prevented… but how do dogs get heartworm? Personally, it’ll be one more reason to hate those little blood suckers! According to the American Heartworm Society (AHS), only about 55 percent of dogs in the United States are currently protected by a heartworm preventive – that leaves more than 27 million dogs at risk for contracting this deadly disease. Unfortunately, many pet owners do not realize the danger of heartworm and don’t even understand the way a dog can become infected. So how do dogs get heartworm? Take the time to learn the basics about heartworm – including the ways dogs can become infected – and you will take the necessary steps to protect your pet. Related: 5 Heartworm Facts You Need To Know How Do Dogs Get Heartworm? There is only one way a dog can become infected with heartworm – if it is bitten by an infected mosquito. The process through which a mosquito becomes infected, however, is a little bit more complicated. First, the mosquito must bite a dog that is already infected with adult heartworms that have begun reproducing. In order to produce heartworms, the dog must be infected with at least one male and one female heartworm. A dog can be infected with up to 250 heartworms at a time, so where there is one heartworm there are typically multiple. Related: Naturally Safe Mosquito Repellent For Dogs When the mosquito bites the infected dog and sucks its blood, it takes into its own body some of the heartworm babies – called microfilariae. Once these microfilariae are inside the mosquito, they develop into larvae over a period of 10 to 14 days at which point they become infective. Then, when the mosquito bites another dog it transfers some of those infective larvae into the dog’s bloodstream. A dog does not immediately become infected with heartworm the moment it is bit by an infected mosquito – it isn’t until the larvae develop into adult heartworms and begin reproducing that the dog will actually test positive for heartworm. It generally takes about 6 months for the infective heartworm larvae to travel through the dog’s bloodstream to the heart and lungs where they begin to reproduce. Because it takes so long for the larvae to develop, dogs typically do not show any symptoms of heartworm until the adults begin reproducing. How to Protect Your Dog Nearly 100 percent of dogs that are exposed to the infective larvae of heartworms become infected with the disease. Once infected, the expected lifespan of the dog drops severely to an average of five to seven years. The heartworm disease is incredibly dangerous and deadly, but it is also easy to prevent. Giving your dog a monthly heartworm preventive takes only a few seconds but it could provide your dog with a full 30 days of protection. In order to start your dog on a heartworm preventive program, however, you must first have him tested for the disease. Puppies under six months of age can be started on a preventive without being tested because it takes the disease six months to develop, but they should be tested within another 6 months after starting the preventive. The mosquitoes known to carry the heartworm disease can be found in all 50 states during any time of year, so your dog’s risk for contracting heartworm is ever-present. Because preventing heartworm is so easy, however, there is no reason for you not to do it. The cost of preventing heartworm is significantly lower than the cost of treating it and it will save your dog a great deal of pain and suffering if he never contracts the disease to begin with. If you haven’t already started your dog on a heartworm preventive program, talk to your veterinarian as soon as possible.

The Buzz About How Mosquitoes Can Sabotage Your Dog’s Health

Mosquitoes are pests – not just to humans, but to dogs as well. But did your know that a bite from this insect can cause more than just an itchy annoyance for your pet? If you are like many dog owners, you may be under the impression that your dog’s fur coat protects him from mosquitoes. While this may be true to a certain degree, mosquitoes can still be harmful to dogs. Not only can mosquito bites cause irritation and possibly allergic reactions, but mosquitoes can also transmit dangerous diseases to your pet. Let’s talk about the basics regarding how mosquitoes can potentially harm your dog and what you can do to protect him. Diseases Carried by Mosquitoes You may already be familiar with some of the diseases that mosquitoes carry which can affect humans – these include West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and systemic lupus erythematosus. Perhaps the most dangerous threat to your dog, however, is heartworm. Heartworm is a dangerous disease that can only be transmitted to dogs through mosquitoes. As larvae, these microscopic organisms work their way through your dog’s blood stream into the right ventricle of his heart where they grow into adults and reproduce. A heartworm infestation may not produce any outward symptoms, but it has the potential to kill your dog. Related: Naturally Safe Mosquito Repellent For Dogs How to Tell if a Mosquito Has Bitten Your Dog It is unlikely that you spend every waking minute of your day with your dog, so it is possible that he will be bitten by a mosquito during a time when you are not around. In cases like this, it is important to be able to identify the signs of a mosquito bite. The first sign your dog is likely to indicate after being bitten is scratching – though it can be difficult, you should discourage your dog from scratching the bite because it could lead to further irritation or infection of the skin. The next symptom is swelling – in dogs that have an allergic reaction, this swelling can be so severe that it may impact your dog’s breathing or vision. In most cases, however, the irritation will be minor, appearing in the form of a bump at the site of the bite. Note: The symptoms of heartworm infestation vary from the signs of a mosquito bite and they may take weeks to develop. Symptoms of heartworm include coughing, labored breathing, vomiting, weight loss, exercise intolerance and fatigue. If your dog exhibits these symptoms you should have him checked by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Related: How Do Dogs Get Heartworm? Treating Mosquito Bites in Dogs The first step in treating a mosquito bite in your dog is to keep your dog from scratching it and making the bite worse – scratching may increase the risk for infection and the spread of disease. Wash the affected area with a mild soap and warm water then apply a topical antibacterial cream. If the bite gets worse or does not improve over the next few days, take your dog to the vet for an examination. At this time the vet may perform a blood test to check for heartworm in addition to treating the bite itself. Protecting Your Dog from Mosquitoes The simplest way to protect your dog from mosquitoes is to reduce the number of mosquitoes on and around your property. You can do this by removing bodies of standing water such as puddles, clogged gutters and ornamental bird baths. Mosquitoes only reproduce by laying eggs in stagnant water, so if none is available on your property then the mosquitoes will travel elsewhere. You can also apply a topical mosquito repellant to your dog’s coat to protect him when he is outside. Avoid commercial products because they are often laced with chemicals that can do more harm than good. A simple, natural option is lemon juice – simply rub it into your dog’s coat for natural protection from mosquitoes. In addition to protecting your dog from mosquitoes, you should also give him a monthly heartworm preventive. Before you start your dog on the preventive your vet will want to perform a heartworm screening, but after that you simply have to give your dog a monthly pill to prevent heartworm infestations. Protecting your dog from mosquitoes (and the diseases they carry) is easy, so stop them before they start to bite.

The Unseen Threat: Dangers of Secondhand Smoke for Your Pet

Most people are well aware of the dangers of smoking. They understand what smoking does to their bodies and know the potential health risks of lighting up a cigarette. But did you know that exposure to secondhand smoke may have serious health consequences for your pets?It’s no secret that smoking is bad for people. In the United States, between 80% to 90% of lung cancer deaths are linked to cigarette smoking. Secondhand smoking is also linked with an increased risk of other forms of cancer, such as breast and colorectal cancer, heart and respiratory disease.Studies have shown that more than 50% of bladder cancer cases in humans are caused by cigarette smoking. A recent study involving Scottish terriers found a link between cigarette smoke exposure and bladder cancer. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in dogs, and many pooches are diagnosed with some form of this terrible disease. Although many factors may predispose a pet to cancer, research shows that passive smoking is a main danger.Scientists from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Purdue University discovered that Scottish terriers who were exposed to secondhand smoke at home were six times more likely to develop bladder cancer than those who were not routinely exposed to smoke.Passive smoking is also linked with nasal cancer in dogs. This type of cancer is often diagnosed in long-nosed breeds such as collies, greyhounds, and borzois. The increased surface area in their nasal canals traps inhaled particles, allowing carcinogens from tobacco smoke to accumulate in the nasal mucus. As a result, long-nosed dogs are at a greater risk of developing tumors in their snouts. On the other hand, brachycephalic or short-nosed dog breeds, such as pugs and French bulldogs, are more likely to develop lung cancer. Their short noses aren’t as effective at trapping inhaled particles and allow more carcinogens to reach the lungs.Being exposed to smoke increases the risk that your dog will develop cancer, but that’s not all. Pooches that live with smokers are more likely to develop asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory problems.Dogs aren’t the only pets to suffer the consequences of inhaling secondhand smoke on a daily basis. Cats, birds, and small critters like guinea pigs and rabbits are also at risk.Cats that live with smokers are more likely to develop asthma and lung cancer. Felines that inhale secondhand smoke regularly also have a higher incidence of malignant lymphoma.  Studies have found higher nicotine concentrations in the hair of cats living with smokers than those living in smoke-free homes. The same is true for dogs living with smokers, no matter whether their owners smoked inside or outside. Cats are famous for being fastidious groomers, but licking the fur puts them at risk of ingesting even more toxic particles from secondhand smoke than simply inhaling them. Felines that groom excessively can develop oral tumors from licking toxic particles off their fur.Secondhand smoke alone isn't responsible for all health problems seen in cats and dogs. Diet, genetics, lifestyle, and exposure to other potentially toxic substances in the environment combined affect the pet’s overall health.Owners concerned with the well-being of their four-legged companions should be more aware of the air quality in their homes and make necessary lifestyle changes.Choosing to smoke outside can minimize some risks associated with exposure to secondhand smoke. Improving ventilation, opening the windows, and using air filters can help too. However, it’s important to note that even a low exposure to secondhand smoke can be harmful to your four-legged companion.Quitting smoking is hard, but knowing how secondhand smoke affects your pet’s health may motivate you to put down that cigarette once and for all!Join the PetGuiJoin the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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.

Bella the Cat Breaks the Guinness World Record for Loudest Purr

A 14-year-old cat from Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, UK has broken the Guinness World Record for the loudest purr by a domestic cat (living). Bella produced a purr measuring 54.59 decibels. To give you a better picture, Bella’s purr was as loud as the sound of a boiling kettle and almost as loud as the sound of a washing machine.Bella’s owner, Nicole Spink, explained to Guinness World Records that her cat’s special talent comes naturally: “She purrs all day long. If there’s food around or cuddles, she always purrs.”“Also when watching TV - she likes to be loud with television. My late husband used to always moan about the sound of her purr blocking the sound of the TV in the evenings.”The Spink family has always known that there’s something special about Bella’s purr. “Friends and family always notice Bella’s loud purr, everyone comments ‘what’s that loud noise? Oh, it’s the cat’. It’s just Bella being happy!”One day, while leafing through the Guinness World Record book, Ms Spink and her daughter decided to perform a test. They downloaded a phone app that recorded and measured Bella’s purr, confirming their suspicions.An app can be a good indicator of a purr’s sound level, but a sound engineer is the only person who can measure it correctly. When the day of the official attempt came, Ms Spink was nervous that Bella wouldn’t want to purr. “She’s a stubborn little old lady and she does how she pleases. It’s very much Queen Bella’s world.”Bella’s record-breaking attempt was overseen by Dave Willson, the Official Guinness World Records adjudicator. “It’s always an exciting day when there is the potential for a new record, so we waited in anticipation to see whether Bella would be able to do it.”Mr Wilson and an independent sound engineer prepared the room in Spink’s family home to block out external noises and set up recording devices. The sound level meter used was kept at a one-meter distance from Bella, as well as a one-meter distance from the ground, following certified instructions. To beat the previous world record, Bella had to purr louder than 50 decibels. According to Mr Wilson, “the results were immediately obvious.”It seems that food might be the reason Bella purrs so loudly. When talking about the record-breaking attempt Ms. Spink said: “I fed her a bowl of Whiskas and then brought her into the room, laid her in her bed and she started purring, just like that!”As you can see, Bella is extremely motivated by food. According to her owner, Bella purrs loudly every time there’s a bowl of food in front of her. Despite her advanced age, Bella sprints to her bowl as soon as she sees a package of her food. A typical day in Bella’s life revolves around three things - food, sleep, and cuddles. Bella will wake up in my bed, she always wakes me up early and asks for her food. Then she’ll ask my kids or anyone else who comes into the house for more food. Then she will sleep, and then she’ll want more food and cuddles. Food and sleep is pretty much her life!”And that’s what you call a purrfect life!While Bella’s 54.59-decibel purr was loud enough to break the world record for a living cat, the record for the loudest purr ever belongs to two other cats - Merlin and Smokey. In 2011, a Northampton cat, Smokey, owned by Lucinda Ruth Adams, was recorded purring at a shocking noise level of 67 decibels. That’s more than 13 decibels louder than Bella’s record-breaking purr. Five years later, Smokey’s record was equated by Merlin, owned by Tracy Westwood in Devon. Smokey and Merlin are still co-holders of the record for the loudest purr by a domestic cat. 

Meet Maverick, the Winner of the 2023 American Humane Hero Dog Award

A six-year-old European Blue Great Dane was singled out from hundreds of other dogs and crowned the 2023 American Humane Hero Dog. Maverick’s job as a therapy dog is to support military members and their families from across the country.Maverick has an extraordinary ability to provide comfort to those who need it with a simple touch of his paw. “A sign of a good therapy dog is a dog that always wants to touch you,” explained Marverick’s owner, Kelly Brownfield, from Saint Robert, Missouri. “He just has a sense of knowing what people need.”Brownfield, who works as a manager at the Fort Leonard Wood United Service Organization, told Fox News that Maverick was born for a purpose. “Maverick’s superpower is his ability to calm people with a touch of his paw, giving them strength to move forward,” she said.This gentle giant supports service members after unexpected deaths in their units, escorts children to military funerals of their parents, and helps service men and women cope with trauma. Each week, Maveric spends time with students at school, offering support to children who practice their reading skills.Tipping the scales at 150 pounds, Maverick can initially seem intimidating, but “he is literally a gentle giant,” said Brownfield. “His whole aura about him is calming.”“He is the perfect size for everything that we do. He is literally their rock; they can lean on him, and he is there for them,” his owner added. “The one thing about this breed is that they have a heart to match.”Each year, people around the country nominate hundreds of dogs in five categories - law enforcement and first responder dogs; service and guide or hearing dogs; therapy dogs; military dogs; and emerging hero and shelter dogs - for American Humane’s Hero Dog Award.Five semi-finalists, in each of the five categories, were chosen from hundreds of dogs. A competitive public vote has cut the list to only five four-legged finalists - one presenting each category. Maverick, who was competing against service dog Moxie, Coast Guard K-9 Buda, police dog Poppy, and emerging hero Raina, was crowned by the panel of judges as the winner. “We are so excited to name Maverick as the American Humane’s 2023 Hero Dog, a distinction that is well deserved for him and his owner Kelly,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane. “The duo has worked tirelessly to bring comfort and solace to our nation’s military heroes through the United Service Organization (USO), all while they both were facing their internal beatles against cancer. It’s these types of incredible stories about sacrifice, perseverance, and compassion that this award aims to spotlight.”Maverick has also offered emotional support to his owner Kelly, who has been battling cancer for the past six years. “I truly believe he knew before anyone else knew,” said Brownfield, adding that Maverick was particularly clingy, touchy, and protective in the months leading up to her diagnosis. “To have him there, especially on hard days has been just an amazing support.”The six-year-old gentle giant also faced a cancer diagnosis last year but is now cancer-free thanks to a successful surgical procedure. Although Maverick spends most of his time in Missouri, he and his owner sometimes travel around the country for work. Together, he and Brownfield have completed hundreds of special mission requests over the years.Having a therapy dog around “can help change lives,” said Brownfield. “He senses the needs of every person.”Maverick and the four other finalists will be honored at the 13th annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards in Palm Beach, Florida. The award show will air on Thanksgiving Day and November 26 on A&E.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Lost Tortoise Found After 3 Years

A story about a lost tortoise in Florida proves that reunions can happen even years after losing a pet, and that social media can play a huge role in reconnecting people with their lost pets.

Canadian Dog Dacquri Claims New World Record

Do you have a dog that loves to play with socks? Does your dog steal your socks from the laundry basket or even right off your feet? While many dog parents will view that as troublesome behavior, one family recognized that a dog’s love for removing socks might be a golden ticket to something more. Daiquiri, an Australian Shepherd from Canada, recently claimed a new world record after successfully removing the most socks from people’s feet in a minute. The adorable record attempt was held on the set of the TV series Lo Show Dei Record in Italy. Here, Daiquiri went person to person, removing 21 socks from the feet of 11 women as they sat in a row in front of him. He was given three attempts at beating the record previously held by Lilu and Briana from California (20 socks). His owner, Jennifer Fraser, wasn’t allowed to touch the pup at any point during the attempts, but she could guide and encourage him through the process. On his first try, Daiquiri tied the existing record. On his second try, he beat it by a single sock!

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. 

How Can I Prevent My Dog From Barking When They’re Home Alone?

Dogs are very affectionate beings, and can form incredible bonds with their owners – but this also means that they would love to be by their side at all times. Sometimes, however, this is just not possible. Their owners have to  work, go to the store, or finish chores out of home and they can’t always take their pets with them. And when you leave your pooch all by their lonesome, they often think it’s the end of the world – you’ve abandoned them for good, even when you’re away for like 25 minutes. This can result in anxiety, restlessness, and a lot of barking. Some dogs – in fact – just won’t stop barking or howling until you come back. How can you bring an end to this behavior, and prevent all the excess barking? And how can you let your pet know that leaving for a little bit is no big deal? Let’s find out. Battles with Barks: Why Dogs Bark When Alone and How to Stop ItExcessive barking when a dog is home alone can be a common issue for a lot of owners, and addressing it requires a combination of training, environmental management, and sometimes, the help of professionals. Above all, it requires patience. However, there are a number of factors that come into play when such situations occur. To make your dog calmer, quieter, and ready to accept your absence, you should take a closer look at the daily routine the two of you share.First, consider if you're providing enough physical and mental stimulation. Physical exercise is crucial for a dog's well-being. Keep in mind that a tired dog is generally a content and quieter dog. So, before you leave, make sure that they have ample exercise, fun, and outside time. If they “emptied their batteries”, they are more likely to remain calm and just snooze while you are out. Of course, to make sure you always fulfill these exercise requirements, you will have to establish a consistent daily routine. Just like humans, doggos too depend on the routine they can follow. This routine helps them feel secure and understand when to expect certain events like meals and walks. If they get used to a daily chain of events, they will expect you to leave and be okay with it.  Interactive toys that provide mental stimulation or dispense treats are also a great thing to utilize when battling anxiety or boredom-induced barking. They can help your dog stay occupied during your absence. As they get involved in playing with the toy, dogs will tire out, keep themselves busy, and not make such a big deal about your absence. With a toy, alone time can actually be enjoyable for a dog.

How Much Outdoor Time Does My Dog Need?

Spending time outside is very important for overall physical and mental health, both for humans and animals alike. Our pets, dogs especially, can be quite dependent on the time they spend outdoors. It helps stimulate them, keep them mobile and active, and also helps them spend all that extra energy they have stored which in turn impacts their behavior for the better. But as it is with everything in life, there is always too little and too much of a good thing. So in the end, it does make you wonder – just how much outdoor time does your dog need? And, can you really overdo it? Let’s find out!How Much Outdoor Time Does My Dog Need?The amount of outdoor time your dog needs can vary based on factors such as their breed, age, health, and individual preferences of your dog. It can’t really be the exact same for all dogs out there. Just like humans, some pooches have preferences of their own. Some love to snooze and relax, and aren’t really fans of going outside and zooming about. Others, however, can’t get enough of adventures in the great outdoors. Still, in general, all dogs require at least a small amount of daily outdoor exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. With that in mind, these are some main factors that could influence the amount of time your pet needs to spend outside of the house:BreedDifferent breeds have different energy levels and exercise requirements. High-energy breeds like Border Collies or Labrador Retrievers may need more outdoor time compared to lower-energy breeds like Bulldogs or Basset Hounds. As you get to know your pet and the specifics of their breed, this too will become apparent. AgeAge plays a major role in dog energy levels. Puppies generally have more energy and may require several short play and exercise sessions throughout the day. Adult dogs on the other hand usually need at least 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise per day, depending on the breed and individual needs, whereas seniors usually don’t have as much energy so one walk a day will do just fine for a pooch in his golden years.HealthDogs with certain health issues may have specific exercise restrictions. Consult with your veterinarian to determine an appropriate exercise plan for a dog with health concerns. Don’t overdo it with your dog, if the vet prohibits it. The same goes for seniors, who can’t really play all that much outside. SizeDog size is a big factor in determining energy levels and the need for outdoor fun. Smaller breeds may get sufficient exercise with a shorter walk or playtime, while larger breeds might need longer and more vigorous activities.Individual PreferencesSome dogs are more active and enjoy activities like fetching, running, or hiking, while others may be content with a shorter walk or playtime in the yard. On the other hand, some breeds, due to their inherent traits, might love relaxing outside, even when it's chilly. Others, though, will love the warmth and coziness found indoors. 

What to Know About Cat Reproduction

With a better understanding of feline reproduction, you can take steps to prevent unwanted litters, and you’ll know what to expect if you have an intact female or male.What does it mean when a queen (intact female cat) is in heat? How long does a pregnancy last? And why does it seem that cats are so good at reproducing? Below are the basics to help you get started.  There Are Multiple Stages in the Cat Heat CycleA cat’s estrous cycle, also known as her heat cycle, consists of multiple phases. Also, females are seasonally polyestrous, so they can go into heat more than once throughout the breeding season.The stages of a cat’s heat cycle are:Proestrus – During this phase, which will last about a day or two, you probably won’t notice any obvious changes in your cat.Estrus – During this phase, which lasts about a week on average, a female cat will behave in a way that lets males know that she wants to mate.Interestrus – If a cat doesn’t mate, she’ll go into this phase, which can also last about a week on average, until she goes into proestrus again. If a queen mates, ovulates, and becomes pregnant, she will enter diestrus.If a queen isn’t in a heat cycle at all, she’s in anestrus, which can last months.Cats Can Get Pregnant When They’re a Few Months OldCats become sexually mature around 6 months of age, on average, but it can happen even sooner than that. For example, a female can go into heat when she’s a mere four months old.This means that even kittens can mate and get pregnant. If you have intact male and female kittens, this is definitely something to be aware of. Talk to your veterinarian about the best time to spay or neuter your feline companions to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Cat Pregnancy Is Roughly Two Months LongA cat’s pregnancy can be shorter at 60 days or longer at 71 days. On average, a cat will give birth in about nine weeks, or 63 to 65 days. In other words, the pregnancy will be roughly two months long.On average, a cat will have four kittens, but she might have just one or she might have six or more. A queen’s age may affect the size of her litter—for example, a cat who’s pregnant for the first time is more likely to have a smaller litter, as is an older queen.After giving birth, a cat might go into heat again sooner than you think. It might even happen while her kittens are still nursing. So, if you’re caring for a mother and her litter, it’s important to prevent another pregnancy by keeping her safe indoors and away from intact males. Cats Are Induced OvulatorsWhat’s interesting about cats is that they’re induced ovulators. Put simply, when cats mate, the female ovulates, releasing eggs from her ovaries. And since the eggs are released with mating, it times out in a way that boosts the odds of pregnancy.A queen typically needs to mate multiple times before eggs are released, and she could mate with more than one male while she’s in heat.  A Litter of Kittens Can Have Different FathersAs mentioned above, a queen will mate more than once while she’s in heat. Well, another interesting fact about cats is that they can mate with more than one male while they’re in heat, so they could end up with kittens that have different fathers.In other words, a single litter of kittens could have two or more fathers. This is known as superfecundation.There Are Several Signs of Pregnancy in CatsHow can you tell if a cat is pregnant? Even though there are going to be several signs as the fetuses develop, you might not notice anything right away.You might first notice the queen’s nipples becoming more obvious. This is followed by weight gain that will eventually cause her belly to be big and round. Changes in behavior are also often seen in pregnant cats. Her appetite will increase, she may become more needy and affectionate, and she’ll look for a nest where she can give birth safely and comfortably.If you are caring for a pregnant cat, consider getting a product like the Sport Pet Pop Open Pet Kennel, which features two entryways, has a waterproof bottom, and comes with a removable, machine washable pad. She might view this as the perfect nesting box, and you’ll feel good knowing she’ll be secure in there with her kittens.

Can Counterconditioning Help My Reactive Dog?

Caring for and managing a reactive dog can be incredibly frustrating. Your dog may be a sweet angel at home, but they suddenly evolve into a barking, growling, lunging whirlwind when out in public.Luckily, there is hope!Overcoming reactivity is a process that will not happen overnight. However, dog trainers and behaviorists have seen great success with positive reinforcement techniques like counterconditioning.This article will explore how counterconditioning works, the steps involved in the process, realistic timelines and expectations, and tips for a successful journey toward a calmer, more confident dog. Get started today!What is Counterconditioning for Dogs?Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is counterconditioning, and why is it recommended for managing and treating reactive dogs?Counterconditioning is a behavioral modification technique that focuses on changing your dog’s emotional response to a specific stimulus.For example, some dogs feel fear and anxiety at the sight of another dog. This could be due to a lack of socialization, meaning they weren’t taught that other dogs can be friendly. It could also be a reaction to a past trauma, like having been attacked by another dog. In these situations, counterconditioning can be used to teach your dog that the sight of another dog leads to a positive experience.Why is this an effective approach for addressing reactivity? Reactivity, by definition, is an overreaction to a trigger. While this is often associated with fear or anxiety, some reactive dogs become overly excited. An overexcited dog may jump all over strangers not because they are trying to cause harm but because they are so excited to see them that they can’t control their response.If you have identified your dog’s triggers, you can use this training approach to teach them to respond in a new (and better) way.What Can Counterconditioning Be Used to Treat?Reactivity isn’t the only behavioral condition that can be treated with counterconditioning. This technique can be used to address a wide spectrum of situations in which a pet may be responding to a situation or trigger in an unwanted way.Some situations where it is commonly recommended include helping dogs overcome specific fears or phobias as well as managing or overcoming behaviors related to obsessive-compulsive disorder.Common fears that may be addressed with counterconditioning include: Fear of car ridesAnxiety when visiting the vetNoises (fireworks, thunder)Babies (especially the sound of crying)Strangers or other dogs in publicAllowing guests to enter their homePhysical triggers like cars or bicyclesDogs who dislike grooming, like brushing or having their nails trimmedIf you believe this approach may be helpful in your dog’s unique situation, we recommend speaking with a behaviorist.You can find professionals in your area by browsing the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists website list or the Animal Behavior Consultants Directory by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.

Do You Know Your Pet's Love Language?

Relationship therapists have long used the concept of “Love Languages” to encourage better communication among couples. It defines how we express and receive love and sorts these behaviors into five categories – acts of service, physical touch, words of affirmation, gift-giving, and quality time. But did you ever stop to consider how your pet may fit into this framework? The folks at Nulo Pet Food did!Recently, the brand partnered with OnePoll to survey 2,000 cat and dog parents to better understand the secret to your pet’s heart.The survey found that quality time is the most popular love language among cats and dogs (27%). This refers to showing affection by giving your pet your undivided attention, with this increase in attention leaving our pets feeling loved and cared for. For 62% of respondents, this meant allowing their pet to sleep in their bed each night, while 40% reported that they would include their pet in their daily plans whenever possible.Of course, food still scored high in offering a path to a pet’s heart despite not technically being part of the original five love languages.53% of pet parents said they showed love by providing their pets with high-quality meals, which could technically fall under both acts of service and gift-giving. Dedicated to their pets' overall well-being, 47% answered that they showed love by prioritizing their pet’s health and nutrition over all else, and 32% focused on adding variety to their diet.“With 69% of respondents willing to put their pet’s dietary needs before their own, the data clearly shows just how important a role pets plan in their people’s lives,” explained Heather Acuff, Ph.D., Nulo’s Director of Research & Development. “Not only are pet parents speaking their pet’s love language, they’re going above and beyond to provide optimum care and nutrition to ensure the healthiest and happiest lives for their pets.”What inspires us to prioritize our pets so highly in our lives? These furry family members hold an important role in our lives, with 47% of pet owners believing their pet views them as a best friend and 42% stating that their pet sees them in the same way.This data gives us an insight into the dedication that pet parents show in providing quality nutrition to their dogs and cats. When asked why they feed their current diet, 50% said they strongly believed their pet enjoyed the food, 35% chose the diet for its high-quality ingredients, and 29% decided on a diet based on their budget.How important is variety in our pets’ diets? Only 48% of those surveyed believed they could survive eating the same meal every day for three months. It highlights the importance of products like food toppers that allow us to provide variation and make mealtime interesting while still prioritizing feeding a well-balanced diet. This includes commercial food toppers and pet-friendly human foods like pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, and more.Ultimately, the data reveals that food is one of the most significant ways we express our love and affection to our pets – possibly even making it the sixth love language for pets and pet parents!

An AI App Helps Vets Diagnose Cats By Detecting Their Pain Levels

Every cat owner has wondered what their cat is thinking about - at least once in a while. You see your feline friend just standing there in the corner, its gaze fixed on something and its expression a true enigma. Sadly, it’s not that easy to read a cat’s emotions, so most of it just remains a mystery. Until now, that is. An Alberta-based company is developing an app that could change the way we see cats and their emotions. The innovative AI app is named Tably, and it aims to help vet clinics assess a cat’s pain more easily. Susan Groenveld, one of the developers of Tably, said that felines visit the vet far less than dogs. "And when you really unpack that, it's because they hide their pain. When a cat is in pain, they go and hide under the bed, versus a dog that'll present to the owner, like kids do," said Groeneveld, the founder at Sylvester.ai, the company developing the  Tably app. "I thought, wouldn't it be cool if everyday people that love their pets would know if their animal may be demonstrating pain."An earlier version of the app already showed remarkable success, with tens of thousands of downloads around the world. Susan Groeneveld said that those early stages of the app acquired around 54,000 downloads in just a week, showing that there is a big need for something like this. "This told us that people were really, really interested in it," she said. "But we really wanted to make sure that it was validated and veterinarians actually supported it because it was a really easy opportunity for us to become a novelty."As the work progressed, the app had been clinically tested by both veterinarians and pet owners in the United States, Canada, as well as in Europe. It is expected that the app will arrive in the digital market in the U.S., Singapore, and France in January. And for Canada, the app should see a release this fall. How does Tably work? The app uses special algorithms that apply standards and facial pain scores that vets previously created. With that, the vets can review the results and better assess the cat’s state. "We believe our technology will make it more accurate because there's less human bias in the subjectivity of the assessment," Groeneveld said.Positive reviews have been overwhelming so far, many of them coming from respected vets. Dr. Liz Ruelle, a vet at the Wild Rose Cat Clinic in Calgary, Alberta, is on the advisory board for the Tably app. Her involvement is very important for the developers, and Dr. Ruelle used the app in her practice. In fact, Dr. Ruelle states that she definitely plans on using the app in her future work and said for  Yahoo: “When a cat experiences pain, its eyes and eyelid positions change and they shift their ear positions. Like if we're in a good mood and we smile, we could think of how our cheeks are uplifted. We see the apples of our cheeks. If I had whiskers on my cheeks, then I would have that same uplifted, happy whiskers," she said. "But when I'm feeling sad, or headache, or painful, then those facial muscles start to sag down … instead of being upright and perky whiskers, they would be kind of dropping down the face."The best thing of all - the app won’t be exclusive to vets. Groeneveld and Ruell stated that a special lite version is planned, which will be aimed at pet owners to use at home. No exact dates have been provided, however. 

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