Dog Insurance Dos and Don’ts

by Lauren Corona

Published: August 2nd, 2014

Confused about dog insurance? Here’s a handy list of dos and don’ts you need to know about.

Getting insurance is an important part of responsible dog ownership, especially if you wouldn’t be able to afford a large veterinary bill, should a medical emergency arise. However, insurance can be tricky and sometimes it’s hard to figure out what you need from a policy. If you follow these dos and don’ts, you’ll have Fido fully covered in no time, just in case the worst should happen.

DO: check your policy covers your pet

Some insurers won’t cover dogs that they consider to be “dangerous” or high risk, such as Pitbulls or Rottweilers. You know that Fido wouldn’t hurt a fly, but the insurance company is worried that your precious pooch will injure someone and they’ll have to pay out. Before committing to a certain policy, be sure to double check that your dog isn’t excluded by their terms and conditions.

DO: insure your pet as soon as possible

If your pet has any pre-existing medical conditions, these won’t be covered by your new policy. As such, you should insure your dog as soon as you can while they are still young, so that he’ll be fully covered for any eventuality. It also tends to be more expensive to insure older dogs.

DO: look out for any clauses in the small print

Some policies have certain clauses that might invalidate your policy. For instance, Fido might have to be up to date with all his jabs and have an annual checkup in order for your policy to be valid. Quite often, if you want him to be covered for dental treatment, he’ll have to have a yearly examination of his teeth by a veterinarian.

DON’T: be tempted to gloss over the details

If your pooch has a spotty medical history, it might be tempting to tell a few white lies on your insurance application forms. This is not a good idea. Before you make any claims, your insurer will ask to see a fully veterinary history and if they find that you fabricated any of the details on your application, they won’t pay out for treatment.

DON’T: forget about the deductible

Like health insurance for humans, dog insurance policies usually have a deductible. This is an amount of money that you will have to pay before the insurance kicks in. For instance, if the deductible is $50, and you get a vet bill for $75, you’ll have to shell out the first 50 bucks and the insurance provider will pay the rest. Make sure you budget for this and choose a policy with a deductible that you can afford.

DON’T: go with the first policy you find

There are many companies out there that offer insurance for dogs. As is the case with anything, some offer much better value than others. Rather than going with the first insurer you come across, be sure to shop around so that you’re certain you’re getting a good deal. Think both in terms of price and coverage. There’s no point going with the cheapest policy if it gives you poor coverage and won’t pay out an adequate amount if your pet gets sick or has an accident.

DON’T: ignore third party coverage

Third party coverage is what will pay out if your pet causes an accident or otherwise injures someone. Make sure that your policy includes this kind of coverage, as it could cost you an arm and a leg otherwise. Even if your dog would never intentionally injure someone, he could do so by accident, for instance if he ran out into the street and caused a car wreck. The owner is liable for any damage their pet does, and if you factor in loss of earnings, it could mean thousands of dollars out of your pocket.

Lauren Corona is a freelance writer from merry old England. She specializes in writing about dogs and other critters. Lauren lives near Oxford, with her gorgeous Doberman, Nola. When she’s not tapping away at the keyboard, you’ll find her walking in the woods with Nola-dog, raising money for the Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary, cooking vegan food, making zines and writing about herself in the third person.

Lauren Corona

Lauren Corona is a freelance writer from merry old England. She specializes in writing about dogs and other critters. Lauren lives near Oxford, with her gorgeous Doberman, Nola. When she's not tapping away at the keyboard, you'll find her walking in the woods with Nola-dog, raising money for the Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary, cooking vegan food, making zines and writing about herself in the third person.

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Dos And Don’ts For Boarding Your Dog [Video]

Before you board your dog, make sure you’ve done your homework – and we’ve made it easy for you with this list of helpful dos and don’ts Boarding your dog can be a stressful time for both you and your pooch. Nobody likes to leave their four-legged friend behind when they go away, but sometimes it’s necessary. Just as long as you put a little thought and effort in, the process shouldn’t be too painful and you can enjoy your time away without worrying about your darling dog. DO: Plan ahead. It’s important that your find a suitable and high quality boarding kennel for your dog, so don’t book his spot at the last minute. The best kennels may get booked up far in advance, especially during peak holidaying times. You should give yourself enough time to have a look around and judge its suitability before you take your dog to stay there. DO: Check licenses and references. If your state requires dog boarding kennels to be licensed, check that the facility you choose has the right licenses and ask to see copies as proof. You might also want to check references or see testimonials from people who’ve previously boarded their dogs at the kennel. DO: Pack for your pooch. The stay will be much easier on your dog if he has all the right things with him. You should pack some of his favorite toys to keep him busy. You could even pack a treat dispensing toy and ask the staff to keep it filled up. He might also prefer to sleep in his own bed or at least with some of his bedding. Also pack something that smells like you, as this could give your dog some comfort. DO: Think about dinner time. It’s a good idea to bring your dog’s food with you to the boarding kennels. Eating an unfamiliar food could give him a stomach upset, or he may refuse it, if he doesn’t like it. In addition, packing his own food and water bowls could make meal times a bit less stressful. DO: Make sure you can be in contact with the kennel. Leave a number where you can be contacted in case of emergency. Also, make sure you have the number of the kennel, just in case you want to check in. DON’T: Forget to specify your dog’s needs. If your dog has any special needs, be certain that the staff at the boarding facility is fully aware of this. It never hurts to double check. If your pooch is on any medication, bring enough with you to last the whole time you’re away and make certain the staff know when and how much to administer. DON’T: Have a tearful goodbye. Dogs are extremely intuitive, so if you make a big fuss when you leave him at the kennel, he’ll know that something’s wrong. This might make him more stressed out during his stay. DON’T: Forget to bring any documentation. A decent boarding kennel will require proof that your dog is up to date with all his jabs. Bring his vaccination card or other official proof of his vaccinations. If you don’t have this, you’ll need to get in touch with your veterinarian. DON’T: Board a dog who’s unwell. If your dog is under the weather, he really shouldn’t be in a boarding facility. Even if he’s not contagious, being in a stressful environment might make his illness worse, or it might be too much for the staff to deal with. If you have to go away in an emergency, it’s best to make other arrangements, such as hiring a pet sitter or leaving your dog with friends. And if you want to make sure your dog feels at home at the boarding facility, you can do what this over-the-top dog dad did for his Bulldog – watch the awesome video below!

Facts And Myths About Dog Insurance Policies

What’s true and what’s false? Let’s clear up some common dog insurance policy questions. Everyone seems to have something to say on the topic of dog insurance. Of course, they’re only trying to be helpful, but just because your cousin’s friend’s sister’s mailman had a problem claiming with a specific insurer, it doesn’t mean that’s necessarily the gospel truth. It can be hard to figure out what’s true and what’s not when it comes to pet insurance, but if you take a look at these myths and facts, you’ll soon have a better understanding between fact and fiction. FACT: You Can Choose Your Own Vet. Unlike health insurance for humans, where you have to choose from an approved list of doctors who will accept your type of policy, all vets will accept all kinds of pet insurance policy. This means, you can stick with your trusted veterinarian and won’t have to switch just to fit in with your insurer. Related: Making A Dog Insurance Claim FACT: Pet Insurance Can Be Reasonably Priced. While lifetime policies can have high premiums, there are a range of more affordable dog insurance options for those who have a lower budget. That said, even the most the most expensive of policies could work out saving you tens of thousands of dollars, if your pooch suffers from a serious illness or injury. So, when you look at it that way, it doesn’t seem too expensive. FACT: Pet Insurance Policies Are Easy to Set Up. Getting your dog insured doesn’t have to be a hassle. Most insurance companies even allow you to set up your new policy online. As long as you have basic details about your pooch, such as his breed and age, you can have your policy finalized in 10 minutes. There are even a number of comparison sites that will help you get the best deal on your policy. Related: Dog Insurance Dos and Don’ts MYTH: Dog Insurance Has Too Many Exclusions. Some people think that dog insurance isn’t worth it, because too many kinds of treatments aren’t included in the coverage. Sure, the cost of elective or routine treatments, such as neutering, tooth cleaning and vaccinations generally comes out of your own pocket, but there are special kinds of policies that will cover routine care. Plus more unusual or alternative treatments are becoming included. For instance, some insurers will pay out for holistic or natural treatments, doggy behaviorists, acupuncture and more. MYTH: Dog Insurance is Only for Sick Pets. If you think that dog insurance is only useful if your dog is sick or injured, then you have things back to front. In fact, if you wait until your dog is ill to insure him, then it’s already too late, since all existing conditions will be excluded from your insurance policy. MYTH: You Can’t Insure Old Dogs. Sure, it might cost a little bit more to insure an older dog, but it’s not impossible. Ideally, you should insure your dog from an early age, but that’s not always a viable option, especially if you choose to bring home an older rescue dog. So, don’t avoid getting dog insurance just because your four-legged friend is no spring chicken…. uh, dog. MYTH: It’s Hard to Make a Claim. Making a claim shouldn’t be difficult. All you need to do is contact the insurance company, fill out a form and send it off with any relevant details. In most cases, your veterinarian will be happy to fill out the form for you and dig out any supporting evidence. After all, if the form is filled in correctly then the vet knows they’re going to get paid!

What To Watch Out For With Dog Insurance

A safe bet or risky gamble? Here’s what to consider before making a decision about dog insurance. While it would be nice to imagine that dog insurance companies are in it for the animals, because they care about your pet getting better, but the truth of the matter is they’re ultimately big businesses, looking to make a buck. This is why dog insurance policies can be troublesome. You might need to make a claim and find out there was some kind of clause or loophole you didn’t know about, meaning that you end up paying out of pocket. However, if you know what to watch out for, you can avoid some of the biggest dog insurance pitfalls. Annual Coverage Some policies work on an annual basis, rather than a rolling basis. This can work to your detriment if your dog gets an injury or illness that requires ongoing treatment, because after the annual policy is up, if you go to re-insure, it will be classed as a pre-existing condition and won’t be covered under the terms of the new policy. Related: Types Of Dog Insurance Policies Per Condition or Per Year? Look out for whether your policy pays out a fixed sum per condition or allows you a certain amount per year. A policy may pay out per condition (let’s say up to a total of $10,000 per condition), and if your dog got a serious chronic illness that required regular veterinary treatment, once you’d hit that $10,000 mark, that would be it; the insurance company wouldn’t pay out any more for vet fees relating to that condition and you’d be left footing the bill. However, if your insurance company pays out up to $10,000 per year, you’d get continual cover for your dog, as long as you keep up with the policy. Of course, it’s unlikely that your dog will get a chronic condition, but it never hurts to be prepared for the worst. Consider the Deductible A deductible is the amount that you, the owner, has to pay toward your dog’s veterinary bills before the insurance company will fork over some cash. Make sure you know what the deductible is for your policy and budget for it in case of a veterinary emergency. Policies with a large deductible tend to be cheaper than those with a small deductible. Ultimately it’s up to you to weigh up the pros and cons and figure out whether you’d rather have a large deductible, with low monthly payments, or a small deductible with more expensive monthly payments. Related: Dog Insurance Dos and Don’ts Routine Veterinary Checks Most policies have some sort of clause stating that you must keep your dog up to date with routine veterinary checks and treatments, such as vaccinations, health checks, dental checks and even minor tooth cleaning. If you don’t keep your pooch up to date with these things and he gets an illness which could have been prevented, then your policy may become invalidated. Look for Limitations It’s not uncommon for policies to come with certain limitations. For instance, some insurers won’t pay out for treatment for older dogs, whereas others exclude certain breeds which they deem to be dangerous or high risk. Your dog also might not be covered if he’s a working dog or if she’s used for breeding. Make sure you’re aware of any limitations which might affect the coverage for your four-legged friend. Hereditary Conditions Some insurance policies won’t cover hereditary conditions. These are conditions that are passed down to your dog genetically. It can be hard to prove whether or not your dog’s condition is hereditary, but it’s a good idea to check if the policy will pay out for conditions which certain breeds are prone to. For instance, if you have a Doberman, find out if they cover conditions such as Von Willebrand’s Disease and Dilated Cardiomyopathy.

Reducing Dog Insurance Rates With Multi-Pet Insurance

More pets means more savings, when you choose multi-pet insurance We all know that dog insurance is a reliable way of keeping on top of any veterinary bills, should your beloved pet get sick or injured. However, if you have enough animals at home to fill a small zoo (even an extremely small one) then the cost of all these insurance policies can seem daunting. This is where multi-pet insurance can help to reduce your dog insurance rates. Now you can rest assured that your dogs are covered in case of an emergency, without having to spend your entire paycheck on insurance fees. What is Multi-Pet Insurance? Multi-pet insurance is exactly what it sounds like: a policy for insuring multiple pets at one. Each animal will get his own insurance policy, but the rates will be cheaper than if you insured them all separately. This is beneficial for anyone who owns two or more pets. Related: 3 Sobering Reasons Why Dog Insurance Is Important What Are the Benefits of Multi-Pet Insurance? The main benefit of multi-pet insurance is obvious: it saves you money. However, it also has another key positive point, in as much as it makes life simpler for you. If all your pet insurance policies are with the same provider, you only have one company to deal with, one monthly or yearly payment, and one place to contact if you want to make changes to or claims on your policies. After all, isn’t life complicated enough already?! How Does it Work? The exact way that multi-pet insurance works varies between insurance providers, so you’ll need to check with each company to sort out the specifics. However, the basic principle is that the insurance provider wants your business, and so is willing to cut you a special deal so that you’ll do all your insuring with it. Sometimes you’ll be given a reduction in the form of a percentage, whereas other times the second (or third, or fourth…) policy will be given at a reduced rate. The best thing to do is to contact the company, let them know how many dogs you want to insure and see what the process entails. Does it Only Work With Dogs? No, multi-pet insurance isn’t just for dogs. If you also have a cat, rabbit, hamster or any other pet you want to insure, then you can still get a discount if you insure the animal in conjunction with your dog insurance. This is great for anyone who has a diverse range of animals at home, and wants them all to be covered. Related: Dog Insurance Dos and Don’ts How Much Could You Save With Multi-Pet Insurance? Once again, the amount you could save will vary between companies and will also depend on the kind of coverage you’re taking out. Be sure to shop around to check which company can offer you the biggest discount with the best terms and coverage type for you. As a rule, the more pets you insure, the more money you’ll save. That’s not to suggest that you should go out and get more dogs, just to save a few bucks on insurance, but if you already have quite a menagerie, it will make things just a little more affordable. If you do have more than one dog or have another pet in the house, in addition to your dog, then multi-pet insurance is clearly the way to go. Not only will it save you money, it also makes things a lot simpler in the long run. So, you can relax and hope you don’t have to make a claim at all.

Tried & Tested: Real Quotes From 7 Trustworthy Pet Insurance Comp

One of the doubts you have about investing in pet insurance may be the integrity of the insurance provider. We picked eight reputable pet insurance companies and applied for quotes – here’s what happened. For those who think pet insurance is only for the rich, famous or pedigree crowd, think again. Today’s insurance is affordable, practical and it speaks to the everyday needs of your average pet parent living with a pure- or mixed-breed dog. Of course with any health insurance it’s important to shop around to ensure you understand the best options for your little guy, determine a realistic deductible and find a price that fits your monthly budget. And with a little legwork that will probably take you less time than your Black Friday on-line shopping spree, you’ll be ready to make your coverage decision! Already starting to feel overwhelmed with the myriad of pet insurance products on the market? Don’t be! Listed below are eight well-known pet insurance agencies and I’ve done a little sleuthing on your behalf to get you started. Related: Dog Insurance Dos and Don’ts ASPCA: This is definitely an à la carte format, starting with the basic coverage and price points of $15.67, $39.50, $54.03 and $73.79 US / month. All four covered injuries and chronic conditions however only the two more expensive options covered hereditary or genetic conditions – a possible issue for purebred dogs. Upgrades can be purchased and include annual exams, dental cleaning, vaccinations, spay/neuter, heartworm meds and microchip. For more info on rates and coverage, visit the ASPCA pet insurance website. PetPlan: Three price points include $31.00 for bronze, $33.49 for silver or $36.37 for gold. They offered a generous cap on veterinary expenses ranging from $10,000 to $14,000 to $22,000 respectively and all plans covered the usual vet-related issues such as accidents, injuries, exam fees, and dental treatments. The silver plan even includes the replacement cost of your pet due to theft or straying as well as the cost of advertising and reward! Plus, it has a super cute real-time chat room. For more info on rates and coverage, visit the PetPlan website. Related: What You Need To Know About Dog Insurance Policies Trupanion: This organization toggles between Canada and the US and can quote you in either currency. My quote was for $50.62 monthly, based on a $200 deductible – which seems a bit steep to me given coverage does not include exam fees, preventative care including dental cleanings and vaccinations. However, Trupanion does have one of the highest ratings for consumer satisfaction, so paying more for quality service may be a deciding factor for you. For more info on rates and coverage, visit Trupanion. Embrace Pet Insurance: Hmmm… three visits to their site net me three different quotes. Two plans priced at $56.98 and $72.04 magically changed to $30.76 and $44.72 on a later attempt, so probably worth a phone call. Coverage includes accidents and illness, as well as genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia and routine medical exams and tests. For more info on rates and coverage, visit Embrace Pet Insurance. Healthy Paws Pet Insurance: This insurance provider offered up one rate ($50.32) based on a $100 deductible and 80% reimbursement level. The percentage of reimbursement and the amount of deductible seems to crop up frequently and can heavily influence rates. If you have a breed that is prone to medical issues, something to keep in mind. Coverage includes accidents and illness as well as hereditary conditions. For more info on rates and coverage, visit the Healthy Paws Pet Insurance website. Pets Best Insurance: While price points begin at a low $27.51 per month with a $100 deductible, this plan covers just the basics including accidents, illness and hereditary conditions. To secure coverage that includes exam fees and rehabilitation services, your plan premiums jump to $49.63 albeit with a higher annual coverage limit of $10,000. For more info on rates and coverage, visit Pets Best Insurance. Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI): VPI is backed by Nationwide insurance providers. Plans range from the basic $17.75 per month with an annual $400 maximum to $95.38 per month with an unlimited maximum and coverage that includes accident, illness, hereditary as well as dental diseases, eye disorders, alternative and holistic treatments. All were priced for a $100 deductible. For more info on rates and coverage, visit Veterinary Pet Insurance. Keep in mind that the cheapest rate necessarily means it’s the best plan. Do your research – check out customer ratings and comments on social media and review sites. Even though you may pay more for certain providers, you want to be ensured that you’re reimbursed when the time comes. We are committed to finding, researching, and recommending the best products. We earn commissions from purchases you make using the retail links in our product reviews. Learn more about how this works.

Dogs Could Be Wagging Their Tails Because Ancient Humans Loved Rhythm

Doggos love to wag their tails and we love to see it. It is their way of expressing emotions, from unwavering joy and happiness to see you again after a long day at work to a shy greeting to a new face – there are many things a pooch can convey with a simple  tail wag. But have you ever wondered why they do it exactly? Why didn’t dogs evolve to, let’s say, use their ears for nonverbal communication with us? Researchers were wondering the exact same thing, and their latest studies could provide a key insight into why dogs started wagging their tails in the first place.Believe it or not, the origins of this action could potentially be traced to ancient humans who first domesticated dogs. And the study connects the human love of rhythm, with selective breeding and domestication!Dogs were first domesticated by humans sometime between 15,000 and 50,000 years ago. It was a long time ago when dogs first emerged from domesticated wolves and similar canines but some of their ancestral traits, like tail wagging, remain the same. And researchers could finally have an answer for this behavior.“We may not be able to take a time machine back to the beginning of the dog-human relationship, but we can look at dog behavior today in tandem with human behavior to try and understand what that domestication process looked like,” said Dr. Taylor Hersh from Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics in the Netherlands. “Tail wagging is a very apparent and interesting behavior to start with.”Of course, this is not the first such study, and in the past, many have questioned the wagging of tails. Previously, it was found that hand-reared dog pups will wag their tails far more often than hand-reared wolf pups, showing the clear difference between domesticated and wild animals. Likewise, it was discovered that dogs wag their tails to the right mostly in response to positive experiences, usually when seeing their owners. And they’d wag them to the left in potentially aggressive situations. And now, researchers linked this behavior to the ancient process of domestication. This means that dog tail wagging has developed because dogs have an inherent genetic link towards behaviors that humans want - like tameness and docility. “We put forth a new hypothesis that humans consciously or unconsciously selected for tail wagging during the domestication process because we are very attracted to rhythmic stimuli,” said Silvia Leonetti, another member of the team.Ancient humans had a very distinct attraction to rhythm and rhythmic actions, so there could be a very logical link here. Dr. Holly Root-Gutteridge, a dog researcher at the University of Lincoln, also proposed that tail wagging was developed during the long domestication process as an adaptation by the dogs, as humans likely found barking irritating. “We’re a highly visual species and may appreciate the rhythm, it’s an interesting thought that should be explored, though I’m not sure we’re really responding that much to it,” she said. What is more, she added that wolves too wag their tails in certain situations in the wild. “I suspect ancestral humans saw tail wags as a positive, easy to read sign in wolves, and developed it the way we talk with our hands – as a communicative gesture that we can easily understand.”

Scientists May Have Found a Better Way To Trim a Cat’s Nails

Trimming a cat’s nails is often a daunting affair for everyone involved. Most cats should have their nails trimmed every two to three weeks. Failing to do so leaves you and your furniture at the mercy of your kitty’s sharp claws.Specially designed to be smaller, cat nail clippers or scissors are commonly used to trim a cat’s nails, but they can be difficult to handle, especially if your cat doesn’t want to cooperate or is anxious. Additionally, there’s always a risk that you’ll end up scratched, bitten, and bleeding.This is where science can come in handy! Researchers from the University of California, Davis, are working with Sacramento SPCA to make nail trimming less stressful for cats and their owners. Jennifer Link, a Ph.D. student at the University of California, Davis, Animal Welfare Epi Lab, is working on a multistep protocol designed to desensitize the cats to handling and nail clipping. In mid-July, Link started to visit the Sacramento shelter five days a week for two hours to work on socializing rescued and surrendered cats to help them adjust to new people, situations, and environments. By the end of September, she had worked with more than 70 cats. “When people hear that I study cats, many ask if I can help them with nail trims,” said Link. According to Dan Marple, the animal welfare manager at the Sacramento Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, this research is vital to staff, donors, and volunteers because it can reduce the stress caused by nail trimming.“Any new protocols that increase the comfort and safe handling of the cats in our care will also improve their overall well-being and adoptability,” he added. Link’s research is promising because it incorporates cooperative care. This means that cats are allowed to decide how much they want to interact with the handler during the training process. Depending on their willingness to participate, the cats go through one of three scenarios with Link: a handling-only training protocol, a handling and nail-trimming protocol, or a control with no training and only a nail trim. Each interaction is recorded to be analyzed later. On the days when Link visits the shelter, the cats are removed from their cages and brought to a quiet room where Link is waiting, with a mat laid out before her. If a cat puts their front paws on the mat, they are given treats and cuddles. The idea is for cats to learn that Link interacts with them only when they put their paws on the mat. Once the cat leans this, Link proceeds with training protocols. Slowly, Link touches the cat’s legs, then the paws, and then the paws are gently squeezed. If the cat doesn’t resist, one nail is trimmed. The protocol builds on past steps and works up. When a cat goes through all the steps, they get a nail trim. If a cat doesn’t place their paws on the mat or rejects any step, Link stops the handling.“I think with cooperative care, it does seem to almost improve their trust in me,” Link explained. “They are more comfortable if we let them decide.”This research could make nail trimming at home much more comfortable for the cats and their owners. It can also decrease the number of visits to veterinary hospitals and clinics, where owners often seek help trimming their cats’ nails. The researchers still need to analyze the video sessions to finalize the protocol. And if the protocol is deemed helpful, they will share it with other shelters for more data.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

First-ever Canine Parvovirus Treatment Offers Hope for Sick Puppies

Parvovirus - a single word no dog owner wants to hear. Canine parvovirus is one of the most deadly conditions that affect thousands of puppies in the U.S. yearly.Until now, there has been no specific cure for parvovirus, with treatment relying on supportive care. But that changed in May when USDA granted a conditional license for the first-ever canine parvovirus treatment.Developed by Elanco Animal Health Incorporated, the Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody is a single-dose intravenous injection that has been shown to reduce the length of hospital stay and increase the survival rate of dogs diagnosed with parvovirus. In Elanco’s clinical trials, “zero dogs died when treated with Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody,” said Kristen Zersen, DVM, DACVECC, assistant professor of small animal emergency and critical care at Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. That’s fantastic news considering that parvo’s mortality rate is around 91% for dogs not treated with supportive care.While the treatment efficiency study focused on eight-week-old puppies, Zersen said that safety studies have shown that the treatment is well tolerated by puppies as young as six weeks old. “The puppies treated with Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody had significantly faster times to resolution of vomiting, inappetence, and lethargy,” said Zersen. Elanco’s Monoclonal Antibody is the first and only treatment available for parvo which affects around 330,000 dogs each year. Administered intravenously in a single dose, this groundbreaking treatment works by binding to the virus directly, preventing it from entering into host cells. Another great thing about this treatment is that it can be given to dogs at any stage of the disease. The effects of the treatment may vary from one dog to the next but according to Zersen, “Overall the treatment makes for less time, less worry, and less labor helping the dog to feel better faster.”That’s a positive change considering how this deadly disease has been treated in the past. “Traditional canine parvovirus treatment can consist of 24/7 care, three to five days of hospitalization, high pet owner costs, and emotional stress with no guaranteed outcome,” explained Zersen. “Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody offers a targeted solution. Dogs are treated with one intravenous dose that’s highly effective and proven to decrease mortality and may provide faster resolution of the symptoms of this potentially deadly disease.”Elanco expects to obtain full USDA approval in 2024, but veterinarians are able to get the medicine in the meantime. An eight-week-old pit bull mix was one of the first to receive this lifesaving treatment and knows exactly how effective monoclonal antibodies are. As soon as Cookie started to show symptoms of parvo, including lethargy, lack of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea, her owner brought her to the Fix Project’s Parvo ICU.There, a test confirmed that Cookie has, indeed, contracted parvo. Cookie received Elanco’s Monoclonal Antibody treatment and was admitted to the ICU for supportive care. “We gave the injection, placed a catheter, and gave her the rest of our protocol. And the beautiful part about the drug was we had her in and out. We parvo tested her on Friday, and she came back strong positive. By Sunday, she was eating. And then by Monday, we parvo tested her, and she was going home that day,” Dr. Andrew Cabrera, veterinarian and medical director at The Fix Project, told People in an interview. Cookie was one of the first pups to be treated with Elanco’s Monoclonal Antibody treatment, but she wasn’t the last. Dr. Cabrera shares he has seen similar results in parvo cases he has treated. “The success rate has been night and day,” he said. “We are able to get them eating a little faster and out of the hospital a little more quickly.”Hopefully, vets around the country will include Elanco’s Monoclonal Antibody treatment in current parvo protocols to increase the survival rate and reduce hospitalization time.

More Dogs Than Ever Euthanized as Shelters Hit Capacity

Each year millions of cats and dogs enter shelters and rescues nationwide. Almost a million more animals have entered and lingered in the nation’s shelters in the last three years, resulting in an ongoing capacity crisis. Last year, 3.2 million dogs entered shelters and rescue organizations nationwide. More than 359,000 dogs were euthanized in 2023, compared to 330,000 cats that were euthanized last year. This marks a four-year peak in non-live outcomes for dogs and the first time the number of dogs euthanized has surpassed the number of euthanized cats.  These heartbreaking findings were published in an annual report of shelter populations compiled by Shelter Animals Count, an Atlanta-based nonprofit organization founded in 2012. “Everywhere you turn, the shelters are in crisis,” said the organization’s executive director Stephanie Filer. “It’s truly about an imbalance of animals coming in at faster rates than they’re leaving.”According to Filer, for years cats were considered most at risk because they entered shelters at high rates, but faced low adoption rates. However, focused efforts to reverse these trends are giving results, and the newest data shows a positive shift.“We have seen major positive change,” said Filer. “Adoption rates are high and intakes have decreased, and there are efforts to keep cats at home or in their communities.”Unfortunately, dog programs are suffering, with adoption rates significantly lower than in recent years. “Too many dogs are entering shelters and being left behind,” added Filer, according to USA Today. “Unlike cat adoptions, which continue to increase, dog adoptions have essentially flatlined.”When people think of animal shelters, most imagine scores of large-sized mixed breeds and pit bulls. But in reality, there are purebreds like huskies, French bulldogs, Labradors, and even designer dogs.The one thing no animal advocate thought possible happened - the rates of dog euthanasia surpassed the rates of cat euthanasia for the first time in a long time. “The real reason we’re saying, ‘Wow,’ is that it wasn’t that way for a lot of years. And now it is,” said Filer.More than 6.5 million cats and dogs ended up in U.S. shelters and rescues in 2023. While the number of intakes remained relatively steady, this was the fourth consecutive year of overpopulation. While more dogs were adopted in 2023 than in 2022, the adoption rates were insufficient to meet the demand.The high cost of living, job loss, and housing cost challenges are the main reasons adoption rates aren’t keeping up with animal intake. At the end of 2023, an additional 70,000 cats and 107,000 dogs are waiting for a forever home in one of the many shelters and rescues nationwide. “With more animals entering shelters than leaving, animal welfare organizations and their communities need to continue working together to keep pets in loving homes and out of shelters, including finding ways to increase access to veterinary care and advocating for pet-friendly housing policies,” said Matt Bershadker, president and the CEO of ASPCA.Experts agree that the promotion of shelter adoptions is the best way to solve the ongoing capacity crisis. Adopting an animal from a shelter saves a life, but it also supports the struggling shelters and their staff. Although adopting a cat or a dog from a shelter isn’t possible for everyone, there are other things you can do to help. Volunteering in your local shelter, fostering a pet, or donating are great ways to get involved and help alleviate the shelter crisis.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

28-pound Cat Named 'One Frosty Too Many' Finds a Forever Home

A morbidly obese cat found wandering the streets in Virginia has found a forever home after Richmond Animal Care and Control shelter posted a funny adoption ad on their Facebook page.Tipping the scales at 28.5 pounds the shelter named the chubby feline ‘One Frosty Too Many’ or Frosty for short, after Wendy’s frozen treats. “You know we love a cat with a belly, and lord almighty this one has the best belly in town. Meet One Frosty Too Many,” wrote the shelter on its Facebook page. The shelter described the cat as 28.5 pounds of pudge with a side of crankiness. “As long as you let him do what he wants when he wants, everything is fine; still we recommend you proceed with caution.”The person who brought Frosty to the shelter said he found the chubby cat roaming the streets of Richmond, shared shelter director Christie Peters. The cat was morbidly obese but was otherwise in good general health. “We put him on a strict low-calorie diet and he wasn’t too happy about that,” said Peters, estimating that Frosty is about two years old. “Because he was cranky, we kept telling him he’ll feel a lot better when he loses weight.”Frosty’s adoption ad garnered a lot of attention, and many were interested in adopting the chubby tabby. However, one woman beat everyone to it and took Frosty home. Maggie Thompson, her husband, and two sons were on the way home to Stafford when she saw the Facebook post about Frosty. “I thought, ‘Oh, I want that cat,’” said Thomson, who owns a pet-sitting business, according to The Washington Post. She persuaded her husband, Mike, to stop in Richmond so they could visit the shelter and ask about adopting Frosty.As soon as she met Frosty, she knew that she couldn’t go home without him. “He got on my lap and started purring,” said Maggie. “With animals, they pick you. You just know when it’s right, and they do, too.”Thomson’s sons, Mickey and Andy, were ecstatic they’d be taking home a chubby cat. The family already has two cats, Rose and Wolfie, which are around one year old. “They are under seven pounds each - less than 14 pounds together,” said Thompson. “But I had a feeling they’d all get along just fine and become friends.”After Thompson filled out adoption papers, the shelter staff explained to her that Frosty would need to follow a strict diet and eat low-calorie cat food twice a day until he’d dropped half his body weight. The shelter didn’t have a large enough carrier for Frosty, so they placed him in a dog crate. “We put him in the back of the car, and he didn’t protest at all. He was a good rider and was pretty quiet the whole trip,” said Thomson. When they arrived home, Thomson placed the family’s newest addition into a spare room for a few days to gradually introduce him to their other two cats.Thomson decided that their new cat deserves a new name, one that won’t be associated with desserts. “We’ve decided to call him Gus. That’s what he looks like to me. I now call him Gussie, and he responds well to that.”Gus has adjusted nicely to his new home and loves lounging on the bottom level of a cat tree. Thomson plans to start a weight-loss journey page for Gus on Facebook to track his progress.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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.

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What Age Should You Start Clicker Training?

Clicker training is a popular form of positive reinforcement dog training that uses a small handheld device called a clicker to mark and reinforce desired behaviors. The clicker makes a distinct and consistent sound that signals to the dog that they have performed the desired behavior, followed by a reward such as a treat or praise. The idea is to associate the sound of the clicker with the reward, making it a powerful tool for communication between the owner and the dog.Now, if you want to try clicker training with your dog, you could be wondering at what age should you start. Very early on? Or as your puppy grows a bit older? Let’s find out.What Age Should You Start Clicker Training?Clicker training is versatile and can be used for teaching  basic commands, tricks, and even addressing behavioral issues. It is a humane and positive approach to training that fosters a strong bond between the owner and the dog. Clicker training can be started with dogs at a relatively young age, typically when they are around 8 weeks old. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands and behaviors from a young age, and clicker training can be a positive and effective method for teaching them.However, it's important to keep in mind that very young puppies have shorter attention spans, so training sessions should be kept short and fun. Focus on simple commands and behaviors, and use positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, in conjunction with the clicker.Consistency and patience are key when training puppies, and it's important to make the training sessions enjoyable for them. Stay consistent and maintain your composure and command. Even if the early training sessions last just a few minutes, keep it up. Of course, if you're unsure about how to start clicker training or have concerns about your puppy's readiness, consulting with a professional dog trainer or attending puppy training classes can be helpful. Always use positive reinforcement methods to create a positive and trusting relationship between you and your dog.Remember that clicker training requires patience and hard work to be successful. The idea is to associate the sound of the clicker with positive reinforcement, making it a powerful tool for communication between the owner and the dog.4 Things to Know About Clicker TrainingTo ensure your training sessions with a clicker are successful no matter when you start implementing them in your pet’s routine, you need to know the basics. These tips will help you optimize your process for maximum efficiency:Timing is KeyClicker training relies on precise timing. The click should occur at the exact moment your dog exhibits the desired behavior. This helps your dog make the connection between the behavior and the reward.Positive Reinforcement

Scientists Finally Identify Mystery Dog Illness Sweeping America

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

Why is My Cat Suddenly Acting Aggressive?

Cats are well-known for their independent and aloof nature. It’s part of their mysterious and majestic presence. But what do you do when your once docile companion suddenly becomes angry or aggressive?Understanding why your cat may have shown such an abrupt behavior change is important. Why? This could be a sign of much bigger trouble that demands your attention. There are many explanations for this type of change in demeanor, including physical pain or illness. The best solution to create harmony once again in your home is to get to the bottom of it!In this article, we will look at the most common reasons for a cat to suddenly exhibit aggression and what you should do to help your furry best friend.What Does Aggression Look Like in Cats?If you are a first-time cat owner or have never encountered an aggressive cat, you may wonder what aggression looks like. Our feline friends aren’t always as outwardly friendly and affectionate as their canine counterparts, but aggression refers to behaviors that go a step further. Rather than being aloof or disinterested, an aggressive cat outwardly expresses upset, anger, and frustration toward a trigger.Cat parents who seek help with an aggressive cat often refer to their cat biting or swatting, causing physical harm out of nowhere. But there are often other signs of trouble that are overlooked or unnoticed.Early signs of aggression include:Thrashing or fast twitching tailDirect stareDilated pupilsEars flattened back against the headStiff or crouched postureRaised hacklesHissing, growling, or yowlingWhen these warning signs are ignored, a cat may feel they have no choice but to react further to protect themselves from the perceived threat or trigger. It is at this moment that a cat will swat or bite. Learning to recognize the early warning signs will help you prevent the situation from escalating to the point that someone is hurt.How Do You Tell if a Cat is Playing or Being Aggressive?Some cats, especially young kittens, may play in a way that is similar to or mimics the signs of aggression. This can make it harder to identify if your cat is truly upset or simply playing around. Luckily, there are a few minor differences that can help you differentiate between the two.When a cat is being playful, they usually have their claws retracted. This means they may swat at you during play, but they aren’t scratching or causing harm with that action. The same can be said when they pounce on you – landing on you with their paws, nails retracted. If your cat is biting at your hand during play, they often have a threshold they won’t cross. They may bite hard enough that you feel some discomfort, but they aren’t trying to break the skin.There is a grey area that shouldn’t be overlooked between play and aggression, where a cat either didn’t learn where that line exists or fails to acknowledge it. This is known as play aggression, which we will touch on later.

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Mice Have Passed the Mirror Test: What It Means

The “mirror test” is used by scientists to help them determine if an animal is self-aware—if an animal looks in the mirror and recognizes themselves in it, rather than thinking that there’s another animal looking back at them, they pass the test and are considered self-aware.Several animals have passed this test, such as primates, Asian elephants, and bottlenose dolphins, among others. More recently, a study has shown that mice can also recognize themselves when they look in the mirror.The Experiment That Proved Mice Can Pass the Mirror TestTo figure out if mice can pass the mirror test, scientists put some white ink on the foreheads of black mice. Then, they let the mice look into a mirror. What they discovered was fascinating: the mice recognized themselves in the reflection and started grooming themselves once they realized that there was something on their head that shouldn’t be there.Also, if the mice didn’t realize that something was on their forehead (when black ink was used so it would match the color of their fur or when the spot of ink wasn’t large enough), they didn’t start grooming themselves. This shows that there was a reason the mice groomed their heads after looking in the mirror, and it was an attempt to clean themselves of the ink stain.In addition to looking at their behavior, the scientists also used gene expression mapping to see which neurons in the brain became activated when the animals saw themselves in the mirror.  Findings Shed Light on Self-Recognition in MiceThis research shows that mice may be self-aware, but there are some things to consider. For example, the mice who groomed themselves to remove the ink were already used to mirrors, while mice who weren’t familiar with mirrors didn’t groom themselves. Also, mice who were socially isolated didn’t groom themselves during the experiment with the mirror, unlike mice who lived with other mice that looked like them.There’s still more to discover and learn about these animals, so scientists are planning on doing more research in this area.  Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why Does My Dog Eat Poop?

When it comes to eating, most dogs will eat just about anything – in fact, if it’s something that’s forbidden for them to eat or something that they really shouldn’t be munching on, their appetite only seems to increase. And unfortunately, that also includes poop. While it is definitely disgusting to see, it actually has a lot of science behind it. The behavior is called  coprophagia, and it is influenced by a lot of major factors. Getting to know them can help you better understand this odd behavior, and help you act accordingly. So let’s learn all about dogs and poop-eating.Why Does My Dog Eat Poop?Believe it or not, eating poop is a fairly common behavior in dogs. In fact, recent studies reveal that it is  in a dog’s DNA to eat poop. It isn’t, however, a behavior that should be ignored completely. Because it can give you insights into the health and mentality of your four-legged friend. If you spot your pet munching on the forbidden fudge, it could signal a major nutritional deficiency. So, basically, if a dog is lacking certain nutrients in their diet, they may seek to fulfill those needs by eating feces. Of course, it can also signal underlying medical issues. It is known that some medical conditions can lead to coprophagia, such as malabsorption disorders or  parasites. Coprophagia can also sometimes stem from behavioral issues, such as stress, anxiety, or boredom. Dogs may resort to eating poop as a way to cope with these feelings or out of sheer boredom. It can also come from simple attention-seeking. Yup, your dog can eat feces as a way to gain attention, especially if they've received a strong reaction from their owners in the past. And, if you notice that your doggo is nibbling on poop in the park or on the street, they could be attracted to the scent. The scent of feces attracts some dogs, especially if it's from another animal. Of course, neglect can also be a viable cause. Dogs that are confined in tight spaces or cages can exhibit unnatural behaviors, such as excessive eating of poop. It can also stem from anxiety, fear, isolation, or from problems related to diet. Either way, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical issues and to address any behavioral concerns. Of course, ensuring your dog has a balanced diet, plenty of physical and mental stimulation, and positive reinforcement training can help deter this behavior. It can also be wise to supplement your dog’s diet with  quality multivitamins, which can balance their nutritional needs and prevent poop-eating. 

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