5 Warning Signs That You Need Dog Insurance

by Amy Tokic

Published: July 2nd, 2013

5 warning signs that you need dog insurance

Don’t wait until it’s too late to take out dog insurance

Life would be so much easier if a loud, flashing red buzzer alerted you right before your dog did something dangerous. We’re pretty sure every dog owner would buy one. It would sure cut down on your dog’s medical bills (not to mention the pain and suffering on your wallet). Perhaps it would be some kind of collar attachment. For some people’s dogs, it would go off non-stop! But until the day that gadget is invented, we’ve put together 5 warning signs you should watch out for that will give you a clearer picture if you need dog insurance.

Warning Sign You own a breed that has susceptible health issues. Some breeds come with their own set of built-in health issues. Take a breed like the Pug. It’s more likely to have breathing issues due to its flat face. Or the Bulldog, who is prone to canine hip dysplasia (thanks to its low center of gravity). Before you settle on a breed, do your homework and see what illness are common concerns. If there are common health issues that can run up medical bills, do yourself and your dog a favor, and take out dog insurance.

Warning Sign Your dog doesn’t have a picky palette. In fact, he’ll eat pretty much anything he finds on the floor, table, street and laundry basket. Some of his non-nom noms will pass through him, but other objects will have to be removed surgically. If you notice that your dog is eating everything in sight and you can’t curb the problem, it’s better to be safe than sorry – get yourself some dog insurance.

Warning Sign Your dog is super active. He just won’t stop moving. But all that running around could cause some injury. Repeated joint or muscle damage is a problem, and so are injuries that can come from tripping, falling or jumping. Get your active dog adequate coverage.

Warning Sign You can’t stick to a budget. If you know that you can’t save your pennies for a rainy day, then paying a monthly or yearly dog insurance fee is your best option. If you can’t save the money on your own and something happens to your dog, you’re going to be stuck with a sick dog and a hefty bill. When your purchase dog insurance, the budget is done for you – just pay your fee and you’re covered for the just-in-case moments.

Warning Sign You’re in it for the long haul. You’ve committed to raising a dog from puppyhood to old age. And when old age rolls around, so do a variety of health issues (and more frequent trips to the vet). If you buy dog insurance right from the start, your premiums will be a lot cheaper than they would be if you decided to sign up when your dog is a senior.

What warning signs would you add to this list? Please let us know in the comment section below.

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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What You Need To Know About Dog Insurance Policies

Before you gamble on your pooch’s health care, here’s what you need to know about dog insurance polices When it comes to owning a dog, there many things you need to think about including providing your pet with proper care. Taking your dog to the vet for a simple check-up can cost $100 or more and the cost of emergency treatments can be nearly unmanageable. If you are worried about being able to cover the costs of your dog’s medical care, you might be thinking about purchasing a pet insurance policy. Pet insurance can be a good option, but only if you understand it and know how to use it properly. We’ve put together some valuable information about dog insurance policies so you can be fully informed before you decide whether to buy one. Related: Types Of Dog Insurance Policies Why Should I Buy Dog Insurance? The truth of the matter is that health care (for both people and pets) is not getting any cheaper. The owner of a completely healthy dog may still spend hundreds of dollars per year on veterinary services for check-ups, tests and vaccinations. If your dog becomes ill or suffers from an accident, those costs can skyrocket into the thousands. Pet insurance policies, like health insurance policies for humans, are designed to help offset those unexpected costs. In most cases, pet insurance policies work by reimbursing the pet owner for a portion of covered services. If your dog needs surgery or cancer treatment, this can go a long way in helping you to manage your expenses. Related: Why Pet Insurance Is Worth It Useful Terms to Know In order to understand pet insurance policies, there are a few terms you need to know: Coinsurance: a portion of the cost of covered services you are expected to payDeductible: a fixed amount you must pay for any covered service before the plan provides reimbursementPre-Existing Condition: an illness or recurrence of an illness which first occurred prior to the inception of the policy (services related to this condition are generally not covered)Premium: the monthly fee you pay to be covered by the plan Here’s an example of how a pet insurance policy might work: Let’s say that your dog, Roxie, is covered by ABC Pet Insurance for accidents and illness. You may a monthly premium of $35 simply to be covered by Roxie’s insurance policy. After getting into an accident, Roxie requires $2,500 worth of veterinary services. As long as you are up to date on your premiums, the plan will provide reimbursement up to 100 percent of costs after the deductible. Assuming that your plan offers full reimbursement, you will only be responsible for the cost of the deductible on top of your monthly premiums. The Bottom Line The bottom line is that pet insurance is not always worth the money you spend on it. For example, you may pay hundreds of dollars a year to have your dog covered for accidents and illnesses but might never end up using the plan’s benefits. It is also a common occurrence that, should you use your policy, the plan will not cover 100 percent of the services – factoring in the cost of premiums, deductibles and less than 100 percent reimbursement rates, you may end up spending as much as you would if you didn’t have the insurance policy at all. In other cases, however, pet insurance plans may be the difference between you being able to cover the cost of emergency services and you having to euthanize your pet after an accident. Whether you buy an insurance policy for your pet or not is completely up to you. If you are willing to pay a little extra each month for the peace of mind in knowing that you are covered, by all means get started in researching your options. If you simply want to be protected in the case of an emergency, you might want to consider a plan that offers catastrophic coverage (costs over $1,000) and choose the highest deductible you can to keep your monthly premiums as low as possible.

Dog Insurance Rates: What You Need To Know Before You Buy

From vet visits to unexpected illness and accidents, many pet parent turn to dog insurance for peace of mind From the moment you bring your dog home, he becomes your responsibility and it is your job to provide him with the best care possible. Caring for your dog involves more than just putting a roof over his head and food in his bowl – you also need to give him proper exercise, love and attention. One thing that many dog owners do not think enough about before bringing home their new dog is veterinary care. The costs for routine check-ups and vaccinations can add up quickly, not to mention unexpected costs for illnesses and injuries. If you are worried about being able to pay your dog’s veterinary bills, you may want to think about pet insurance. What is Pet Insurance? Pet insurance performs the same role for pets that health insurance performs for people – it provides benefits for covered services to help mitigate the costs of veterinary care. While a single visit to the vet may cost you around $50 plus the cost of vaccinations, emergency care and surgery could cost you thousands of dollars. If you aren’t able to cover such a cost on short notice, pet insurance may be a good option for you. Pet insurance policies typically work by reimbursing the pet owner for covered services which are determined by the individual insurance company and policy. Some plans cover routine and preventive care while others are designed for emergencies like accidents or illness. Understanding Dog Insurance Rates For many pet owners, the foremost question in their mind is, “how much does it cost?” As is true for health insurance policies, pet insurance rates differ from one company to another and from one policy to another. For the most part, the higher the coverage offered by the policy, the higher the monthly premium will be – lower deductibles will also increase the monthly premium. You also need to keep in mind that most pet insurance plans do not offer 100 percent reimbursement for all services. Many plans offer no more than 80 percent reimbursement on certain services while some offer as little as 60 percent. Before you buy a pet insurance policy, you need to understand how the policy works so you know exactly how much you are going to be paying. For basic coverage, you can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $50 per month, depending on the company. Keep in mind, however, that most companies require you to pay a deductible of at least $100 before the plan will issue any reimbursement – depending on the policy, that deductible may renew annually or it might apply for every service you use. It is also important to realize that most pet insurance plans are designed to cover accidents and illnesses – if you want the plan to cover routine services (labeled “wellness care”) like vaccinations, heartworm tests and spay/neuter surgery, you will have to pay an additional monthly fee. Is it Really Worth It? Whether you buy insurance for your pet or not is truly up to you. Some pet parents enjoy having peace of mind that their pet will be covered in the event of a serious accident or illness while other simply can’t afford the added cost for services they may never use. If you simply want to carry pet insurance to protect yourself against unexpected costs for surgery or expensive emergency care, you might consider opting for “catastrophic coverage” – coverage for costs over $1,000. If you do so, choose the highest deductible you can manage to keep your monthly premium low. No matter what policy you buy, make sure you carefully read over the terms and conditions as well as the company’s list of limitations and pre-existing conditions so you fully understand the coverage you are buying.

What To Do When Making A Dog Insurance Claim

Your dog got sick or hurt – don’t get stuck with the vet bill. Read these points before making a dog insurance claim. You may have been happily paying your dog insurance premiums for years, without ever having to even contact the provider. However, the confusion comes for many people when they need to make a claim. Of course, the process varies somewhat depending on what provider you go with, but there are some things that you’ll need to do regardless of which company you took out the insurance with. Knowing the right thing to do can make the claiming process a lot simpler. After all, if you have a sick or injured dog, you’re already under enough stress. Check Your Policy First of all you should check your policy to make sure that whatever you want to claim for is covered. Routine or elective procedures, such as spaying, neutering, vaccinations and tooth cleaning, usually aren’t covered. You should also be aware if your pup’s insurance policy has a deductible. Claiming on the insurance will usually make the premiums go up the following year, so if the policy has a deductible of, say, $50 and the vet bill is $60, you might be better off just paying the tenner yourself and keeping your policy claim-free. Related: 5 Warning Signs That You Need Dog Insurance Talk to Your Vet When you take your pooch in for the treatment, let your veterinarian know that you’ll be claiming on insurance. The vet will have to fill in part of the claim form, so it’s best to let them know right away. If possible, bring the claim form with you to the vet’s office. Alternatively, some veterinarians keep a stock of claim forms from popular pet insurers, so they might already have what you need. In most cases, you will pay the veterinary bill up front, and then your insurer will pay you back, minus the deductible. However, under some circumstances, it’s possible to arrange to pay only the deductible to the vet and have the insurance company pay the rest directly to them. Make sure to tell your vet, if this is what you have planned. Related: Dog Insurance Pros and Cons Talk to Your Dog Insurance Company You should call up your dog’s insurance provider as soon as possible. Don’t delay, as this could hold up the process, or even invalidate the claim, if you leave it too long. This will get the ball rolling and will also get you a chance to find out exactly how to proceed. Make sure that you have basic details, such as the name or nature of your pet’s injury or illness and the estimated cost of the veterinary bills. Find out if you’ll need any supporting documentation. Usually, your veterinarian will handle this side of things, but it’s a good idea to double check, because sometimes the owner is required to gather their dog’s medical history and any other relevant documents. Find out where to send this information, and whether it’s best to do so via mail, fax or email. The latter may be the fastest and most reliable option, as long as the company doesn’t need to see original documentation. Find out details such as how long you can expect to wait before hearing their decision and how long it will take to pay out, this way you will know if it’s taking longer than it should and contact the company to hurry them along. In most cases, claiming on your dog insurance should be pretty painless, but there are exceptions and some insurance companies will try to give you the run around, especially if you’re making a large claim. This is why you should always make your claim to the letter and keep records of your communications and copies of any relevant documents.

5 Things You Need to Know About Dog Growls

We all back off when we see a dog growling. But there are a few reasons why a dog may be growling at you – here’s what you need to know about this behavior. As much as you may wish he could, your dog can’t just open his mouth and tell you how he’s feeling. The majority of communication between dogs is done nonverbally but there are times when your dog makes his voice heard. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about dog growls – what causes them, what they mean, and whether they are cause for concern. Dogs Growl for a Reason If your dog growls at another dog, your first instinct might be to yank on the leash or to tell him to stop it. Before you do, however, think for a moment about what would happen if your dog stopped growling. Growling is a warning signal for dogs – a way for your dog to tell you or another dog that he is feeling unhappy or uncomfortable. If you take away that early warning system, your dog could react in a more volatile way – a way that puts you or another dog in danger. Related: Top 10 Yappy Dog Breeds A Growl Doesn’t Always Mean a Dog is Angry When your dog growls, it doesn’t necessarily mean he is angry – it’s just another means of communication. When a dog growls, he is saying that something is wrong. Maybe your dog is unhappy or maybe he’s uncomfortable, scared even. It may be an expression of territorial aggression or it might even be a response to pain. Growling is a Natural Behavior Many people who have been bit by a dog claim that the dog didn’t give any warning or that he attacked without reason. The truth is, however, that dogs always give warning, even if it’s something as simple as a low growl. If a dog’s growling is accompanied by aggressive body language, watch out. Related: How To Stop A Dog From Barking There are Different Types of Growl Dogs always growl for a reason but that reason may vary. Aside from threat growling – a verbal response to fear or aggression – dogs also growl during play or as a request for attention. Dogs may also growl when they are feeling frustrated. The key to understanding why your dog is growling is to take a look at the body language that accompanies it. If your dog is not shying away, flattening his ears, or tensing his body, the growl isn’t intended as a threat. Don’t Punish Your Dog for Growling Your dog growls for many different reasons, so it doesn’t make sense for your response to be the same in each instance. While your first instinct might be to punish your dog for growling, all you will be doing is curbing your dog’s behavior – you won’t actually be addressing the cause for the behavior. Plus, if you punish your dog for growling often enough he may stop doing it entirely and you won’t have any warning if he actually becomes upset and is about to act out. The better response to a dog growl is to examine the situation to determine whether the growl is meant as a threat and, if so, what is the cause. Dogs exhibit a wide variety of verbal and nonverbal cues that may seem complex but, if you take just a moment to think about them, they are actually fairly easy to interpret. The most important thing to remember about dog behavior is that your dog does everything for a reason. Rather than punishing your dog for a behavior you deem undesirable, take the time to examine and understand the behavior and then come to a resolution.

3 Sobering Reasons Why Dog Insurance Is Important

In 2014, it’s estimated that we spent about $14.2 billion at the vet – so why aren’t we investing in dog insurance? You do everything you can to make sure your precious pooch is safe and happy. In fact, you might even go above and beyond the call of duty at times (he probably doesn’t need you to sing him songs while he’s eating his breakfast, but who’s complaining?). However, what even the most conscientious of dog owners sometimes overlook dog insurance. Either they’re not sure what the fuss is about or it just slips their mind. Learn all about why dog insurance is so important and get your dog fully covered. In Case of Chronic Illness Some people avoid getting pet insurance because they know they can avoid the odd veterinary bill here and there, should their dog get sick. Sure, a couple of hundred bucks once in a blue moon isn’t much for some dog owners, but think about what happens if your dog gets a chronic illness. Illnesses such as diabetes and Cushing’s disease are fairly common in dogs and mean you pup will require regular medication and veterinary treatment for the rest of their lives. Depending on the condition and its severity, this could set you back hundreds of dollars every month. That’s money that only the very wealthiest of owners have to spare. If you choose to insure you dog, he’ll be covered, no matter what, so you won’t have to worry about mounting veterinary bills. However, you do have to check individual policy terms, as some policies may have a cap on how much they pay out per condition or per year. Related: 5 Warning Signs That You Need Dog Insurance In Case of an Accident Even the healthiest and best cared for dogs can get injured in an accident, which can result in huge veterinary fees. Again, it does depend on the severity, but just one accident of injury can leave you with a mountain of vet bills. One serious road accident, or even something like a snake bite, could rack up a vet bill in excess of $20,000. That’s more than some people earn in a year! Owners who haven’t got insurance are left with a gut wrenching choice: get themselves in a huge amount of debt or have their dog euthanized. That’s really not a choice that anyone should have to make. While it’s unlikely that your pooch will get in this bad an accident (knock on wood!), it’s still not a risk worth taking. Related: Affordable Pet Insurance Can Prevent Unnecessary Euthanasia When Good Dogs Do Bad Things One of the great things about insuring your dog is that most policies come with public liability insurance. This means that if your dog injures someone or damages property, your insurance will cover the costs. Of course, we’re not suggesting that your darling dog will turn into a regular Cujo and terrorize the neighborhood, but your pup could cause some damage just by being a dog, doing dog things. For instance, he could sneak next door and dig up Mrs. Jones’ prize-winning azaleas or, more seriously, get loose, stray into the road and cause a car wreck. Obviously this is a worst case scenario, but if someone was seriously hurt or your pooch managed to cause a good deal of damage, you could be liable for hundreds of thousands of dollars. In an ideal world, your pet will stay healthy and behave himself and you’ll never even have to claim on your insurance. However, just on the off chance that something terrible does happen, it really is wise to invest in an insurance policy. Your bank balance might thank you in the long run!

Why is My Dog Vomiting White Foam?

Sometimes, our dogs can exhibit behavior that can cause great panic in any owner. After all, they can’t talk to us and tell when something is hurting them, or when they feel ill, scared, or angry. So they let their bodies do the talking. One of these scary behaviors is vomiting white foam. It can happen all of a sudden, and frighten you to no end. But is it really a reason to panic? And what causes a dog to vomit white foam in the first place? Let’s find out more.Why Do Dogs Vomit White Foam?The reasons for white foam vomiting can be many, and the cause might not be clear to you immediately. What’s even more frustrating, there are several possible causes for this occurrence. In some cases, the reason for the vomiting can be complex, but often enough it is super simple. It could end up being a sensitive tummy irritated by a new brand of food on the menu, or just a passing belly ache that’s nothing to stress over. However, you should always consult with a vet to eliminate any underlying health issues, as there are many conditions whose symptom is vomiting. One of the conditions that manifests as vomiting foam is bilious vomiting, which is caused when a dog's stomach is empty for an extended period. This leads to the production of gastric acid, so the stomach contents may include a foamy, white substance. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day may help prevent this.  Gastritis, or the inflammation of the stomach lining can also cause vomiting. This condition may be triggered by various factors, such as dietary indiscretion, changes in diet, ingesting foreign objects, or infections. The vomit can likewise be white and foamy. The same can happen in the case of gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, which is often caused by infections, dietary changes, or the ingestion of inappropriate or spoiled food. Be careful of the expiration dates and the quality of food you give to your dog, as an innocent mistake can cause a lot of digestive issues for your four-legged bestie. Another possible reason for white foam vomit can be the  ingestion of foreign bodies. Dogs may ingest non-food items that can cause irritation or blockages in the digestive tract, leading to vomiting. If you notice them dry heaving, this could be the reason why. The same goes for the ingestion of  toxic materials. Ingesting toxic substances can lead to white foamy vomiting. Common toxins include certain plants, human foods (like chocolate, xylitol, or onions), and household chemicals.

What is a Hydrolyzed Protein Diet for Dogs?

Protein is a very important part of a dog’s diet. However, some doggos might have a sensitive digestive system or even allergies. In such cases, a hydrolyzed protein diet becomes essential as it provides important nutrients without being heavy on their tummy. But what is hydrolyzed protein exactly? A hydrolyzed protein diet for dogs is a type of food that is formulated specifically for dogs that have allergies or certain food sensitivities. The protein sources in this diet are all broken down into smaller molecules, thanks to a complex process called hydrolysis. What this process does is reduce the size of the protein molecules, making them less likely to trigger an allergic reaction. So, if your doggo is a bit sensitive, this could be what’s needed!Veterinarians often recommend hydrolyzed protein for dogs that are diagnosed with intolerances or  food allergies. Thanks to this, your pet can receive all the essential nutrients without any adverse reactions being triggered. The most common sources of hydrolyzed protein in these diets are beef, chicken, salmon, or soy. So it’s just like most of the common dog foods - but in a different, better form. 

Jack Russell Terrier Adopts and Nurses Six Abandoned Kittens

People grow up believing that cats and dogs are mortal enemies. Phrases like “fight like cats and dogs" just reinforce that belief.But, is this really true? Is there no way for felines and canines to get along? As it turns out, dogs and cats can be more than friends.A Jack Russell terrier, named Teasel, has become a surrogate mom to six abandoned kittens. Sue Stubley, who lives in the Suffolk town of Newmarket, was contacted after a feral cat abandoned her litter. Ms Stubley, who runs Suffolk Hedgehog Hospital in Newmarket, primarily rescues hedgehogs but has agreed to take the abandoned kittens for the night and take them to the cat rescue center the next morning. However, Ms Stubley’s two-year-old Jack Russell had other plans. According to Ms Stubley, Teasel began lactating the same evening and the hungry kittens latched on to feed. “My dog decided that she was going to look after them. She’s lactating, she’s feeding them, she cleans them, she does everything. So it’s actually been quite easy for me,” said Ms Stubley.At first, Teasel wasn’t making enough milk, and Ms Stubley had to supplement the kitten’s feedings. However, the new mom managed to produce a lot of milk the following morning, and the more she nurses, the more she produces. Apparently, Teasel's maternal instinct kicked in quickly. “If anyone comes in that she doesn’t know and picks one of the kittens up, she’ll march over and go and pick them up and bring them to her back again. She’s adopted proper mum behavior.”Ms Stubley was initially worried about how Teasel might react and thought that she might go after one of the kittens. But that never happened.“By the time they were ready for their second feed, they were sat with her and cuddled up with her. Generally, she is a very gentle dog that loves and adores everyone. She loves children, she’s a great little dog. And apparently, her mum was very similar and was very nurturing so it’s obviously something that’s in her nature.” According to BBC, Dr Rachel Grant, a biologist at London South Bank University, explained that such interspecies adoptions are most likely the result of fixed action patterns in which the adopted animal is reacting to a certain trigger from the adoptee. “This sets off a cascade in the brain that elicits the pattern of behavior,” said Dr Grant. The closer the species are to one another, the higher the chances for cross-species adoption to happen. This means that it’s highly unlikely that you’ll ever hear about an alligator nursing a puppy.“In baby mammals, there will be certain features that mammals share with other mammals,” said Dr Grant. “Cats and dogs, for example, are both mammals and the cues that are driving maternal behavior are very similar. They will be responding to certain cues.”When it comes to baby mammals, they will act on an instinct too. In Teasel’s case, the kittens are instinctively “rooting” - like human babies or puppies - for a nipple to feed on. “These things aren’t under conscious control,” Dr Grant explained. The strong maternal instincts exhibited by Teasel show that she’ll be a wonderful mother to her puppies, in case she one day gives birth to a litter of her own. Ms Stubley has already found loving homes for the kittens to go to when they are old enough, but she says she’ll miss them terribly.“As for Teasel, I don’t know how she’ll feel when they’re gone but I think she’s their surrogate mum for life now.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Often Do Dogs Need to Go Out to Pee?

When nature calls, dogs answer. And when dogs answer, so do you – by taking them outside to do their business. In other words, if you have a potty-trained dog, they will rely on you to know when their bladder is full or at least to take them out frequently enough so it doesn’t get full in the first place. This leaves most owners with the question – how often do dogs need to go out to pee? You don’t want them to have an accident inside the home but you probably don’t want to take them out for a walk every hour or so (even if you did have the time for it) so it’s important to find the right balance. Here’s what you need to know so you can make it work for you and your dog.How Often Do Dogs Pee?The frequency at which dogs need to go out to pee can vary depending on several factors, including their age, breed, size, activity level, and overall health. In general, you can use the following guidelines as a starting point, but it's important to pay attention to your individual dog's needs and adjust accordingly. Sometimes, it’s enough to just observe the signs your dog gives you, like nudging you or standing by the door. But at other times, it requires a bit of “intervention”. When it comes to the connection between a dog’s age and their peeing habits, the younger the pooch, the more they need to go out. Puppies have smaller bladders and higher metabolisms, so they typically need to go out more frequently. A general rule of thumb is to take a puppy out every 1 to 2 hours, especially after eating, drinking, playing, or waking up from a nap. Make sure to let them know why you are going out so they’ll gradually relate walkies with peeing time.Adult dogs, on the other hand, can usually hold their bladders for longer periods. Most adult dogs need to go out every 4 to 6 hours. Some larger breeds may have more bladder capacity and can hold it longer, while smaller breeds may need to go out more frequently, so have that in mind too. Of course, as dogs age, their ability to hold their bladders may decrease. Senior dogs may need to go out more frequently, potentially every 3 to 4 hours. What is more, some senior dogs may suffer from incontinence, meaning that they can’t really control when or where they pee. In this case, you could  use disposable dog diapers until their condition improves or in periods when you’re not there to take them out more frequently and prevent accidents.

How Do I Train My Dog to Wear a Muzzle?

Introducing a new tool to your dog can feel like uncharted territory. While some dogs will readily accept whatever is thrown their way, others will become stressed or anxious when presented with something new. Unfortunately, if you are in a position where a muzzle is necessary for the safety of your dog or others around you, forgoing a tool because your dog appears to be uninterested in it isn’t an option. So, what do you do? How do you train your dog to wear a muzzle? This guide will dig into the importance of conditioning when planning to muzzle your dog. This includes explaining what conditioning is, walking you through the process step-by-step, and sharing some helpful tips to set you up for success. What is Muzzle Conditioning? Before expecting your dog to wear their muzzle, it is recommended that you take the time to focus on muzzle training, also referred to as muzzle conditioning. This is the process of introducing the muzzle alongside positive rewards. If each time your dog sees or interacts with the muzzle, they get “good things,” it will create a positive association. Over time, they will not only tolerate the muzzle but happily accept it. Why? They recognize that wearing their muzzle means they will receive good things like verbal praise, pets, and their favorite treats. How Long Does It Take for a Dog to Get Used to a Muzzle? There is no one guaranteed timeline when working on muzzle conditioning. While some dogs will quickly take to the muzzle, adjusting in just a few days, others will take longer. Some factors that can impact this include your dog’s personality, trainability, previous experience (positive or negative) with a muzzle, and their trust/bond with you as the person introducing this tool to them. It’s important to keep in mind that the time it takes does NOT mean you are doing better or failing at your training efforts. We have three dogs, all of which have been muzzle-trained. While two of our dogs took to the muzzle relatively quickly, Lucifer’s nerves and anxiety made the process more challenging. This doesn’t mean it was impossible. With time, patience, and consistency, he is now the dog that is most comfortable in a muzzle out of the three. We just had to move at his pace.

Watch As Adorable Shelter Dogs Pick Their Own Christmas Toys

The holiday season is associated with traditions and festivities as we gather with family, put up festive decorations, and exchange holiday gifts. For pet parents, these traditions often carry over to spoiling our furry companions. But what about the thousands of pets sitting in shelters and rescues around the world, waiting for their forever home?One rescue based in Ireland has embraced a heartwarming tradition since 2017. Each year, Dogs Trust Ireland collects donations from the public. Hundreds of donated toys are placed in a room, and the pets are brought in one at a time to select their perfect holiday gift. They record the selection process, sharing the adorable footage on their YouTube channel for animal lovers worldwide to enjoy. “The reason we love making the video so much is that it’s so special to witness each dog’s individual reaction. Some burst in the door and scatter toys everywhere in an excited frenzy, and when they choose ‘the’ toy, they do excited zoomies,” explained Corina Fitzsimons, Public Relations and Communications Manager. “For dog lovers, it doesn’t get much better than seeing dogs doing Zoomies! Others prefer people and, after a sniff, will come over for cuddles. Then there are those who test every toy three or four times before picking, and many of the Collies who find a plain ball, throw it at our feet, and look at us as if to say, ‘Please throw human,’ which we are happy to oblige with.” This year, a total of 54 dogs were recorded as they carefully made their selection. While some dogs quickly found that perfect holiday toy, others took as long as 20 minutes to settle on a favorite. The organization promises that every one of the 264 dogs in their care will receive at least one toy during the holiday season, thanks to the generous donations they received.

How Do I Make a DIY Nail Board for My Dog?

Maintaining your dog’s nails is essential to their overall health and well-being, but it can be challenging if your dog is uncomfortable with the nail clippers and other standard tools. While you could pay to bring your dog to the veterinarian each time a trim is needed, there are other options.Our pup Lucifer is nervous anytime someone touches his paws as a result of injuries to his front legs as a young rescue pup. This means that nail trims are a source of extreme anxiety.While we continue working on counterconditioning and helping him overcome his fears, we knew we needed to find a solution for the here and now. Enter the DIY nail board – a simple, budget-friendly alternative to that dreaded nail trim. The board is an oversized nail file that you then train your dog to use at their own pace. It’s a great way to build your dog’s confidence and strengthen your bond while keeping their nails in shape.Can I Use a Regular Nail File on My Dog’s Nails?While you could use a regular human nail file on your dog’s nails, it likely isn’t going to do the job. A dog’s nails are far stronger than our fingernails. Most emery boards and standard nail files will fail to make a dent in their surface, with many falling apart from the wear. If you want a nail file that can be used on your pet, I recommend purchasing a product specifically for dogs, like the Coastal Pet Safari Dog Diamond Nail File.What is a Scratch Board for Dogs?A scratch board is like a nail file; it provides a coarse surface that will help wear your dog’s nails down. The difference is that it is larger in size. Rather than bringing the file to a dog’s nails, the dog is trained to paw at the board and file their nails down. This means they are in complete control over when their nails touch the surface, which is much more comfortable for dogs that may suffer from stress or anxiety. It also means no one will need to handle their paws during nail care.Do Scratch Boards Work for Dog Nails?Yes! If your dog is taught to use a scratch board, they are a highly effective way of filing down their nails. This works much like how their ancestor’s nails would be worn down in the wild. As a dog runs and walks on rough surfaces or digs through coarse dirt, the tiny particles of dirt and stone wear away at the nail.Domesticated dogs may spend some time outdoors running around or digging, but many don’t engage in these behaviors as much as they would in the wild. They aren’t foraging for food daily or running to avoid predators and hunt down prey. This is why domestic dogs need regular nail maintenance, but wild dogs like wolves and coyotes function fine without this additional level of care.As your dog digs at or scratches the board, their nails run along the coarse surface. This allows you to fast-track the wear and tear they would naturally experience.Where Do I Get a Dog Scratch Board?You can purchase a nail board online or at your local pet store, depending on your preferences and budget. You can also DIY your own nail board. Some of the unique commercially made scratch boards you may want to consider for your dog include: Skuun Dog Scratch Pad for Nails: This is a veterinarian-approved board with an anti-slip surface and treat pocket. Zenly Paws Dog Nail File Toy: It combines a scratch pad with a food puzzle toy to make training your dog to file their nails easier and more enjoyable. LovIntry M-Shaped Dog Scratch Pad for Nails: The unique M-shaped design makes it easier to file the nails further back on your dog’s paws if they only file their front nails on a flat board.

Britain's Beloved Breed, the Scottish Terrier, Faces Extinction

Once an icon of British culture, the Scottish terrier is now facing extinction. The Scottie has a distinctive silhouette of a short-legged but sturdy dog with furnishings at the beard, legs, and lower body.These mighty pooches decorated everything from the Monopoly board to designer bags, and shortbread tins. However, the Kennel Club has placed the Scottish terrier on its “at watch” list after only 406 puppies were registered by breeders in 2023.The number of registered Scotties has been plummeting for five consecutive years, but this is a record low.The Scottie was the most popular in the 1930s when there were more than 5,800 registered puppies in a single year. Presidents Franklin D Roosevelt and George W Bush enjoyed the company of Scottie dogs, while countless celebrities including Dorothy Parker and Charles Lindbergh owned a Scottish terrier. Originally bred to hunt foxes, badgers, and other vermin in the Highlands, the Scottish terrier has a loyal, fateful, and bold nature, but is never aggressive. Scotties are dignified, self-assured, independent, and highly intelligent dogs that make wonderful companions to people of all ages.Unfortunately, the Scottie isn’t the only dog that has fallen out of favor with British dog lovers. On the Kennel Club’s “at watch” list are also the English pointer, the rough collie, the wire fox terrier, the Sussex spaniel, the curly-coated retriever, the otterhound, the Gordon setter, the Norwich terrier, and the Manchester terrier. “The Scottish terrier has been such an icon and recognizable breed in the UK for decades and means so much to so many different people, so these latest figures are really worrying,” said Bill Lambart, a spokesman for the Kennel Club.On the other end of the popularity spectrum are Bernese mountain dogs and miniature longhaired Dachshunds, which saw the biggest rise in registrations. The English setter, the Jack Russel terrier, and the Yorkshire terrier also experienced a surge in popularity. Brits are lucky to have more than two hundred wonderful dog breeds to choose from. Each of these breeds has unique personality and character traits and make amazing companions. However, most dogs seen in the parks and streets come from the top ten most popular breeds.“People often opt for well-known choices and simply forget to dig a little deeper, with the worrying knock-on effect that not only are some of our most iconic breeds in decline but also that people might not be getting the perfect match for them,” said Lambert. “People simply forget there are so many different dog breeds, with different personalities and characteristics, and it’s not just the well-known ones that could be a great match for our lifestyles.” The Kennel Club is pleased to see that some of the country’s native breeds, like the English setter, are regaining their popularity. However, the organization also stresses that many breeds are at risk of extinction only because they are no longer fashionable. The top ten most popular breeds in the UK, including the French bulldog, Labrador retriever, and Cocker spaniel, account for more than 60 percent of annual puppy registrations for all breeds. Despite the low registration numbers, there’s still hope for the Scottish terrier. Breed enthusiasts and clubs have started to promote the breed’s unique traits, in hopes of increasing the public’s interest in this amazing breed. The plan to educate the public about the Scottish terrier’s character, history, and suitability as a companion pet could be essential for boosting the breed’s registration numbers. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Cats: The Basics

Like humans, cats can develop a vitamin B12 deficiency. This water-soluble vitamin is needed for a variety of functions, affecting everything from their digestion to cognitive function, so it’s important to address a deficiency in your pet.Here’s some information on the symptoms and causes of vitamin B12 deficiency, along with what you can do to address it.

What is Red Light Therapy for Dogs?

When your dog gets injured or is recovering from a routine surgery, it can be difficult to keep them comfy and to help heal their injuries faster at the same time. However, innovative red light therapy for dogs proved to be a safe and efficient treatment for a variety of ailments, from skin inflammation to wound healing, and much, much more.Red light therapy is also known as photobiomodulation therapy, and it involves the use of red or near-infrared light to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation. The reason for its effectiveness is the specific wavelengths that are absorbed by the mitochondria in cells, which are considered the cell’s powerhouse. As the mitochondria absorb the “red light”, the absorption stimulates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is popularly called the “energy currency of cells”. The entire process then increases blood flow to the treated area, stimulating faster healing, and pain relief. What’s so great about red light therapy is that it is not invasive, and all that is needed is a specialized device that emits specific wavelengths of light.Red light therapy treatment sessions usually last from a few minutes to around 20 minutes, depending on the condition being treated and the specific device used. The frequency of sessions may vary, with some dogs benefiting from daily treatments initially, followed by less frequent “maintenance” sessions. Of course, your veterinarian can advise you on the appropriate treatment procedure for your dog's needs – if you’re unsure if red light therapy is the right choice for your dog, be sure to consult an expert before taking any steps.Of course, while you shouldn’t do anything without your vet’s approval, a great thing about this treatment is that it is entirely safe. When used appropriately, it has no risks for your dog. The secret is in the light energy that does not generate heat at all, eliminating any risk of burning or tissue damage. Naturally, it goes without saying that you should closely follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific device you are using. 

After 11 Long Years, a Cat That Was Presumed Dead Returns Home

Sometimes, miracles can truly happen when you least expect it! And if a pet story can be considered a real life miracle, it’s the one about Toby, a family cat that - it would seem - lived a life of great adventure. In 2012, Toby, the now 14-year-old cat of the Allan family from Warwickshire, suddenly disappeared after the family moved to a new house. It was a heartbreaking event for the entire family, but their pet was nowhere to be found. After many attempts to locate their cat, they simply had to come to terms with the fact that old Toby was lost, and presumably dead. But this week, after 11 long years, Toby was returned to the Allan family by a local woman. The lady checked the cat’s microchip and was quick to get in touch with Coventry Cats Protection."I never thought in a million years I’d see him again," said owner Justine Allan. "Toby was collected and will no longer have to scavenge for food and sleep in a cold bin store," added the Coventry charity co-ordinator Wendy Harris.Toby suddenly went missing in a chilly December in 2012, after the Allan family moved from Galley Common in Nuneaton, to their new residence at Long Shoot."[My son Charlie] was about 12 when Toby went missing, and he was heartbroken when we realized he probably wasn’t coming back," said Mrs Allan for  Yahoo "The Long Shoot is a notoriously busy road, we just assumed the worst had happened and thought he had been run over.”But almost a decade later, just 5 miles away a local Bedworth lady got in touch with Cats Protection, believing that a stray cat she was feeding was pregnant. A volunteer with the charity went out to investigate, a microchip scanner in tow. "It turned out, not only did it have a chip, but that he was a neutered male named Toby, rather than female as originally believed," said Ms. Harris.Blazingly fast, the charity managed to trace the details of the Allan family on their database, and got in touch to share the splendid news – their missing feline friend was re-discovered!Initially in complete shock, after 11 years, the Allan family rejoiced and celebrated and quickly went out to pick up their long-lost pet. During those 11 years, the family welcomed another pet into their home, a King Charles Cavalier named Bernie. But even so, Toby fits right back into the family dynamic. As if he wasn’t missing for more than a decade!

Wish Your Dog Could Understand You? New Study Says They Can!

You don’t have to be a dog owner to know that dogs can learn and understand commands like “sit” or “come”. But, a new study has made a groundbreaking discovery that dogs also know that certain words stand for specific objects. This finding won’t come as a big surprise to any dog owner who has ever asked their pup to “go get your toy” and, a minute later, been handed a chewed-up rubber ball or slobbery stuffed animal. Scientists have long been interested in learning whether dogs can truly associate words with objects. However, researchers couldn’t figure out whether dogs and other animals get a mental image when they hear an object's name. This would suggest that dogs have a better understanding of language than believed before. Researchers in Hungary have discovered that in addition to being able to respond to commands such as “sit”, “roll over”, or “stay” dogs can also grasp the essence of nouns. This relationship with language is called referential understanding, and it has been unproven in dogs until now. “When we are talking about objects, objects are external to the dogs and dogs have to learn that words refer, they stand for something that is external to them,” explained the study’s co-lead author, Marianna Boros, of the Department of Ethology at the Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.To get some answers about what is happening in the dog brain when it processes words, Boros and her colleagues asked 18 dog owners to bring their pooches to the lab along with five objects the dogs knew well. The objects included balls, slippers, leads, rubber toys, frisbees, and other items.Researchers instructed the owners to say the words for the items before showing their dog either the correct object or a different one. For example, the owner might say “Rover, look, the ball”, but hold up a lead instead. During the tests, the researchers measured the dogs’ brain activity using non-invasive electroencephalography, or EEG. The idea was to see whether EEG could offer a better insight into dogs’ understanding of language. The brain recordings showed different patterns in the brain when the dogs were shown an object that matched or didn’t match the owner’s spoken word. The difference was even greater for the words owners believed their dogs knew well.The same results were seen when humans performed these tests and are widely accepted as people understanding the word well enough to form a mental image of the object they were later shown. “We expected that if a dog really understands the meaning of the object’s word, it will expect to see that object. And if the owner shows a different one, there will be a so-called surprise reaction in the brain. And this is exactly what we found,” said Boros according to ABC News.Lilla Magyari, also of Eötvös Loránd University, and the other co-first author, said that although some other animals have shown some degree of referential understanding of language, they have typically been trained to do so. In dogs, she explained, such capacities seem to be inborn and don’t require any particular training or talent. Researchers stress they aren’t claiming that dogs understand words as well as humans. Future studies are needed to determine whether dogs can generalize in the same way humans learn to as children.This study raises an interesting question of why, if dogs understand nouns, more of them don’t show it. One possible answer is that dogs know more than they are willing to show us.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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