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Gift Guide: Must-Have Essentials For The Holidays

Lori Ennis
by Lori Ennis
Published:  December 10th, 2019

It’s that time of year, and you know your best pal is at the top of the good list. The holidays are bustling, and we want to make sure you have all the holiday must-haves to keep your pet peppy throughout the season!

You know how you feel exhilarated, exhausted, excited and overwhelmed during the holidays? So can your pets, and what’s worse is that they don’t even really understand what’s exactly going on. Why *can’t* they play with the ornaments on the shiny tree you put out? In fact, why put a tree inside a house at all if you’re not planning on using it for potty breaks?

And, how’d it get so cold outside? Why do our pets’ coats seem to lack some of the lusters of the carefree summer days? Why does this time of year bring on so many travel plans—many of which leave our pets missing their consistent pieces of home?

So many questions, but the good news is that we have all the answers for pampering our pets this holiday season – check them out!

How To Combat Holiday Stress For Pets

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Houseguests, late nights, loud music and new surroundings can leave even the most laid-back pet on edge. Here are some great products to combat holiday stress.

Green Coast Pet CBD Products

Green Coast Pet is an innovator in the emerging CBD market, by becoming the first brand to be granted the National Animal Supplement Council’s (NASC) Quality Seal on their entire line of CBD based products.

Their Lickable Actives are functional peanut butters that provide an effective and delicious way to deliver supplements to your pet. These all-natural butters have no added salt, sugar, hydrogenated oils, gluten, wheat, corn, or soy. Dogs love them as a treat in a toy or right off the spoon! Flavors include:

  • Lickable Actives Calming
  • Lickable Actives Hip & Joint Discomfort Support
  • Lickable Actives PCR Hemp Extract
  • Lickable Actives with Probiotics & Prebiotics

Full-Spectrum Hemp Oils

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from Green Coast Pet are high-quality tinctures with a focus on better results for your pets. Available for Dog, Cats and Horses, these full-spectrum cannabinoids are all made with hemp grown in the USA. NASC Certified. The various strengths are as follows:

  • Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil for Dogs (100mg)
  • Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil for Dogs (250mg)
  • Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil for Dogs (500mg)
  • Full-Spectrum Hemp Oil for Cats (100mg)

Hemp + SuperBlend Soft Chews.

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Green Coast also has Full-Spectrum Hemp Chews for dogs and cats. They’re also NASC certified and they promote health and relaxation for your furry friend deliciously and naturally.

And if you’re looking for some extra inflammatory support this season, check out Green Coast Pet’s Hemp + SuperBlend Soft Chews. They’re packed with benefits for your dog along with 2.5mg of PCR Hemp Extract per chew. Made with a water-soluble nano-emulsion technology, the hemp extract in these chews is up to 6x more bioavailable to the dog than any oil. These also contain 600 mg of active ingredients per chew for maximum benefits. In addition to their proprietary hemp blend and the benefits of hemp, Green Coast Pet has included turmeric, Boswellia errata and green-lipped mussel to support hip/joint function and a healthy inflammatory response. All hemp products are completely THC free. They’re available in Chicken and Whitefish Flavors.

Bella Roma Travel Bowls and Travel Double Diners from Loving Pets’

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Planes, Trains, and Automobiles: Pet Travel Essentials

Whether you’re road-tripping to Grandma’s or just taking it to your local dog park holiday party, you’ll want to make sure you have these pet travel essentials.

Bella Roma Travel Bowls and Travel Double Diners from Loving Pets’

Loving Pets’ Bella® Roma™ Travel Bowls + Travel Double Diners are the ultimate bowl for pets and pet-parents on-the-go! Patent-pending designs feature integrated locking lids to store food and built-in legs to support the bowl/diner. This prevents unwanted collapses while your pet is feeding or drinking. While collapsed down, they are nice and flat to put in a bag or purse easily. Dishwasher safe and BPA-free, Bella’s Roma Travel Collection can be packed flat, or be hung from a backpack, purse, belt loop, or even leash with the included carabiner.

It’s Purely Natural Freeze Dried Treats for Cats

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Loving Pets’ It’s Purely Natural Freeze Dried Treats for cats are purely simple, purely delicious and 100% all-natural. Freeze Dried to maintain freshness and nutrition, they contain no additives, byproducts, fillers or artificial preservatives. They are wheat, gluten, soy, grain, and glycerin free. These bite-sized, soft chew treats are the perfect, healthy, guilt-free treat. And your cat won’t be *so* mad you’ve stuffed them in a carrier! There are three yummy flavors: Chicken, Shrimp and Buffalo.

Houndations Treats

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What’s an adventure without some yummy treats to take along? Loving Pets’ Houndations Bite-Sized USA Treats are all-natural, bite-sized, soft-chew dog treats are for small dogs that are 100% made in the USA. Matching carabiners on every bag make this the perfect “on-the-go” snack. The grain, wheat, gluten, soy and corn free treats are available in five yummy flavors: beef, chicken, duck, lamb and salmon.

Evanger’s

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Gently Dried Treats for Dogs and Cats

These delicious single-ingredient treats for dogs and cats are sourced in the USA and cooked in the kitchen of Evanger’s. These unique protein-packed treats are rich in essential fatty acids. They are gluten-free, grain-free, and never use additives or artificial ingredients. And, doggos and kittehs alike love them! Flavors include: Beef Tripe, Wild Salmon, Beef Lungs and Beef Hearts.

Robusto Cat Bowls

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Speaking of yummy flavors …let’s not forget to include our furry friends in holiday feasting!

Robusto Cat Bowls

Robusto Cat Bowls from Loving Pets are built for extreme durability. They feature solid, heavy gauge stainless steel construction paired with simple designs on brightly colored, bacteria-resistant, ceramic-like interiors. RobustoBowls are so tough, they survived a durability test: Loving Pets’ ran one over with a 6500 lb. truck without a dent or crack! Talk about being holiday ready!

Bella Spill-Proof Mats for Dogs and Cats

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These Bella mats from Loving Pets’ stylishly prevent splashes and retain spills. Bella Spill-Proof Dog Mats have raised edges for maximum spill capacity (you know how those jowls roll over a holiday turkey!). They are slip-resistant with a bone-embossed surface, and have anti-skid feet to prevent slips, slides, noise and floor damage. They’re also non-toxic, BPA-free and quality tested. They can be used both indoors and outside. They clean easily – just rinse with water. The cat mats do the same, so your festive feline can dig in easily too!

Organic Turkey and ButterNut Squash Dinner

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And don’t forget the most important part is what goes into the bowl!

Organic Turkey and ButterNut Squash Dinner

Consider Organic Turkey and ButterNut Squash Dinner from Evanger’s for your cat’s dining delight. It’s made from superior quality utilizes certified organic ingredients so that your feline can enjoy a long and healthy life! Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth, this holistic dinner is naturally cooked in its own juices.

Against the Grain Chicken Mayflower with Turnips Dinner

Made with your furry feline’s feasting in mind, Against the Grain Chicken Mayflower With Turnips Dinner is totally different and the perfect festive feast for your feline. The white meat chicken and turnips are hand-selected and packed with a blend of unique proteins and superfoods. They give your cat the most healthy, palatable, complete and balanced dinner. High levels of glucosinolates from turnips provide anti-fungal, antibacterial and anti-parasitic benefits, a natural source of calcium, and is grain & gluten-free.

Organic Turkey with Potato & Carrots Dinner

Doggies go wild for Organic Turkey with Potato & Carrots from Evanger’s USA. It combines turkey with organic market-fresh vegetables to create a wholesome dinner they can’t wait to devour. Formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO nutrient profiles for all life stages, Organics Turkey with Potato & Carrots Dinner is certified organic by Oregon Tilth and GMO, hormone, antibiotic and grain-free. Organic Turkey is also endorsed by the cRc Kosher for Passover.

One Ingredient: Turkey and Nothing Else

Turkey and Nothing Else from Against the Grain is unlike any other product on the shelves with its unique loaf-in-gravy consistency and texture. Ingredients are singular, which means this entire product line is grain & gluten-free, no gums, corn, wheat, soy or water added. Made in the USA, One Ingredient: Nothing Else is 100% Paleo. It’s also available Beef, Salmon, Chicken, Duck and Pork, and trust us…your dog will approve!

The Missing Link® Smartmouth™ Dental Chews

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Santa Loves Those Pearly Whites and Shiny Coats!

Oral health and hygiene are vital for our pets. Don’t let this time of year mean their gums and teeth take a backseat!

The Missing Link® Smartmouth™ Dental Chews

These textured and multifunctional chews clean teeth and deliver daily health benefits. The unique ridges help fight plaque and tartar buildup and the textured groves help deep clean teeth for fresh breath. The balanced omegas promote healthy skin and shiny coat, while the glucosamine helps support mobility and hip and joint health. They’re available in three sizes.

Ora-Bone™ by Loving Pets

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Ora-Bone by Loving Pets is patent-pending and designed to do dental BETTER. THREE breath-freshening ingredients fight bad breath in your dog’s mouth and gut, while Ora-Bone’s unique design has up to TWO TIMES the cleaning surface area of similar products! Every surface has a dental feature. They’re available in three sizes for any sized dog, and are 100% MADE IN THE USA.

EQyss

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ELITE Products

EQyss Elite is a line of sulfate & paraben-free shampoos and moisturizing sprays. They are infused with the perfect blend of oils & extracts that leave your pet’s coat clean, moisturized and holiday-ready in one easy bathing routine. They leave your pup smelling perfect for the holidays, and they look like a million bucks too. You can try the Elite Conditioning Shampoo for shine and luster, or the Elite Anti-Itch Shampoo is helpful during this time of year for dry and itchy skin. Don’t forget the Elite Moisturizing Detangling Spray to keep the winter mats and misery away!

The Missing Link® Collagen Care

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Deck The Halls of Winter With Wellness

We all want to stay ahead of germs during the holiday season! These products are sure to help.

The Missing Link® Collagen Care

The Missing Link is known for filling the nutritional gap that regular pet food leaves behind. They’ve launched Collagen Care™ as the newest addition to their supplemental line-up, which concentrates on replenishing collagen. Adding collagen peptides to your pet’s diet has many advantages. In fact, the supplement can significantly improve your dog’s health because it is highly soluble, digestible, and easily absorbed. It replenishes the 30% of total protein in a dog’s body that consists of collagen. Available in 3 formulations, providing 3 distinct benefits to your dog and will be a must-have this holiday season.

Green Coast Pet Pill-a-Pet

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Pill-a-Pet is the perfect pill helper for your pet. You just tear off the amount you need to coat any size pill and then powder or oil the bacon-flavored wrap. It will stick snugly to the medicine, but all your pup will know is he’s getting a great-tasting treat. The Pill Paste is formulated with probiotics since most of the pills your pet will take (particularly antibiotics, pain medications etc.) may affect intestinal microbial population. A dose of good bacteria will help pets overcome the adverse effect of pills they have to take on their stomachs. Each serving (2 grams) is enriched with Bacillus coagulans and is free of corn, wheat, soy and byproducts. There are 60 wraps per bag, so plenty to keep your pet healthy this winter.

WOW
Lori Ennis
Lori Ennis

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More Dogs Than Ever Euthanized as Shelters Hit Capacity

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How Do I Know If My Dog Has Frostbite?

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Is Dog Snoring Normal?

Does it sound like your pet’s sawing wood whenever they take a nap? We hear you. It just so happens that dogs can snore like humans do, and some do it quite often and quite loudly. But what causes snoring in dogs, and is it normal? And is there a way to limit, reduce, or altogether eliminate it? Here are all the deets on dog snoring you need to know.Is Dog Snoring Normal?First off, yes, dog snoring can be completely normal. Just like humans, dogs can snore for various reasons. In most cases, it is not something you should worry about. Still, it can be somewhat distracting, and you might want to know what causes it. A number of factors can contribute to this issue – here are the most common ones.Brachycephalic Breeds:Dogs with short noses and flat faces, known as brachycephalic breeds, are more prone to snoring. This conformation can lead to narrower air passages, making it harder for air to flow smoothly during breathing. Examples of brachycephalic breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, and Shih Tzus.Weight:Overweight, chubby dogs may snore more frequently because excess weight can put pressure on their airways. Combined with excess fat on their neck, and the sleeping position, their snoring can be quite loud, especially during sleep. Age:Believe it or not, age can cause snoring as well! Older dogs may snore more frequently and loudly as they age, just like some humans. Age can affect the muscles and tissues in a dog's throat. Older dogs may experience a relaxation of these tissues, contributing to snoring. Don't hold it against your senior furry friend, they can't help it!Sleeping Environment:Ultimately, the environment in which a dog sleeps can influence snoring. For example, if the room is too dry, it may irritate the nasal passages, or if it's too warm, dogs may breathe with their mouths open, contributing to snoring. Try to find an ideal environment for them, or consider using an air humidifier to moisturize dry air.

Are Hamsters Good Pets for Kids?

Final Thoughts: Hamsters and ChildrenAre hamsters good pets for kids? The short answer is, “maybe.” There are several key factors to consider when deciding if a hamster will be an excellent addition to your family, including the space needed for their habitat, their independent personalities, your child’s interest in a bet, the work (and finances) required to care for your new hamster, and the availability of a veterinarian that will accept small animals.If your child is ready for a pet, but a hamster doesn’t quite check all the boxes on your new pet wishlist, there are many other options, including guinea pigs, cats, dogs, and some species of birds. Don’t rush this decision. Take time to research and find the best fit for your family before committing to your future furry (or feathered) family member.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Acupuncture Can Help Cats and Dogs

Acupuncture is a part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and it can be used on people and pets to address a range of conditions. By balancing the flow of energy in the body, this technique can help reduce or resolve symptoms in a natural way.Many people have used acupuncture for their pets and achieved incredible results. But, like anything else, it might not be right for all pets or all conditions. And working with a qualified veterinarian who’s certified in pet acupuncture is key.Read on to learn more about acupuncture for cats and dogs.What Is Acupuncture for Dogs and Cats?In acupuncture, fine needles are placed in the skin on certain points throughout the body, referred to as acupuncture points or acupoints, in order to do things like restore energetic balance, reduce pain and inflammation, and support healthy blood flow. Based on your pet’s symptoms and condition, an acupuncturist will know where to insert the needles to get positive results.The needles shouldn’t cause any discomfort for your pet. In fact, pet parents often state that their animals become relaxed during their acupuncture sessions.Types of Pet AcupunctureThere are a few types of pet acupuncture, and an acupuncturist will determine which is best for your dog or cat.Dry needle acupuncture is the type of acupuncture that you’re likely familiar with. However, instead of using needles, acupuncturists can simply apply pressure to specific points on a pet’s body to support healing—this is known as acupressure.Other options include electroacupuncture, which combines the use of needles with an electric current, and laser acupuncture, which uses a cold laser to stimulate acupuncture points. The Benefits of Acupuncture for PetsAcupuncture can provide a host of benefits to pets when done correctly and by the right professional. As always, it’s wise to discuss this healing technique with your veterinarian to figure out if it’s appropriate for your canine or feline. And it’s important to discuss the potential risks or drawbacks before deciding if you want to try it.Some of the conditions that may be treated with the help of acupuncture include:Arthritis and joint problemsAcupuncture can be used to help relieve discomfort and pain associated with various conditions. If your pet has been diagnosed with arthritis or hip dysplasia, if they’ve been injured and are dealing with pain, or even if they’re having pain after a procedure, acupuncture might be a good treatment for reducing inflammation and improving mobility.In addition to acupuncture treatments, you can also help your pet feel more comfortable by using a heated bed like the K&H Thermo-Snuggle Cup Heated Cat Bed, which can also work well for small dogs. This product is machine washable and features soft fleece that your companion will love snuggling into. Its circular shape ensures your furry friend will feel nice and secure. Plus, you can use the removable heater to help alleviate discomfort and keep them warm while they relax or nap. 

How Do I Stop My Cat From Waking Me up at Night?

As cat parents, we all love our feline family members. But that love doesn’t erase the frustration that comes with your cat turning into a furry alarm clock at precisely 3 am every morning. Why are they even up at that hour?In this article, we’ll address exactly that—the reasons for your cat’s nighttime activities and the steps you can take to reclaim your sleep once and for all.Let’s not waste any time…Why Does My Cat Wake Me Up Every Night? Having your sleep disturbed by your cat every night can be frustrating. But before you get upset with your furry friend, consider asking yourself why. Why are they waking you up? Why are they unable to settle in? There is a possibility that this could be your cat’s way of asking for or alerting you to something important. Here are a few of the more common reasons: Pain or Medical Problems This is most common in cats that once used to settle in fine and are now changing their nighttime routine. If your cat is feeling “off,” whether it’s due to discomfort or pain, it may be preventing them from relaxing or sleeping at night. To rule this out, you must make an appointment with your veterinarian. Pay careful attention to any other signs of trouble, including: Panting Changes in eating habits “Accidents” or failure to use their litterbox like usual Excessive vocalization (meowing, howling, hissing)Loss of interest in toys, furniture, or activities they once loved Overgrooming or failure to groom Hiding or reluctance to be handledIrritability or uncharacteristic aggression When you speak with your veterinarian, explain all behavior changes or reasons for concern that you have recorded. If you're unsure, we recommend keeping a journal. This will help you spot patterns and red flags. Feline Dementia Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) in cats is similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans. As our cats get older, one of the unfortunate age-related symptoms they suffer is a change in their mental state. They may start to act confused, seem unfamiliar with their surroundings, stare blankly into space, or struggle to follow household rules that were once deeply ingrained. If your cat has CDS, they may vocalize loudly at night because they don’t remember where they are or can’t find you. This behavior is often a sign of feeling anxious, fearful, or stressed out. Cat parents who know they have a kitty with CDS may need to keep their cat in a contained “safe place” at night to prevent them from wandering and becoming lost, as it can be incredibly distressing for them. Feeling Hungry Do you have a cat that is highly food-driven? I do! Speaking from experience, an empty food dish can trigger quite a commotion. Our food-driven cat Jinx is quick to let us know when she’s hungry and doesn’t have access to something tasty. In the same way, it could also be your cat’s way of letting you know that their water dish or fountain is running low. Lack of Daytime Activity/Stimulation Cats require mental and physical exercise throughout their day to live a happy, healthy life. When they don’t have this, they can feel bored and exhibit “bad” behaviors like scratching furniture, tearing about the toilet paper, overgrooming, or becoming overly vocal. Much like the cats who are trying to communicate that their food or water dishes are empty, these cats are trying to tell you that they are missing something essential in their lives. It is most common in cats living in a smaller space with few opportunities to engage in their natural behaviors, such as climbing, scratching, hunting, and hiding. Feeling Lonely Despite their aloof and sassy personalities, cats are actually social animals. This is why you find stray cats living in colonies. Your cat’s social needs can be met by you, other people in the house, a second cat (or third or fourth…), or even another animal, like a dog. But they need to have someone they can connect with. Are you your cat’s person? Even if you spend a few hours focused entirely on them before heading to bed, your absence may be difficult for them. Cats can experience separation anxiety, even if the only separation is that you are in a different room, leaving them alone. Differing SchedulesCats are naturally most active at dawn and dusk, which is known as being crepuscular. While some cats will adjust their schedules to match their human family members a little closer, doing so goes against their natural instincts (unless you work a night shift). Other crepuscular pets include hamsters, rats, mice, rabbits, ferrets, and chinchillas. Your cat will likely wake up to get attention or play with you throughout the day, but they will also take many naps. Our cats spend much of their day stretched out in a patch of sunshine, soaking up the warmth and recharging. In general, cats are most energetic first thing in the morning as the sun rises and again just as the average person is getting ready for bed.

Poll Reveals Biggest Pet Peeves of Dog Owners in the U.S.

We love our dogs endlessly, but that doesn’t mean they don’t occasionally get under our skin. Even the most beloved pets come with a little “extra baggage,” introducing unique challenges and hurdles in our lives.If you have ever had to cancel plans because you couldn’t find a pet sitter or call into work to take your pet to the emergency vet because they ate something they shouldn’t, you understand.Of course, they are worth the effort!But what is the biggest annoyance faced by pet parents? This is the question that Forbes Advisor set out to answer with a recent nationwide poll. They surveyed 10,000 dog parents to uncover their biggest pet peeves, both nationally and state-by-state.Dog parents across the country revealed their biggest frustration was finding a dog sitter when traveling, as shared by 37.3% of those surveyed. This was also the top in 43 states and ranked among the top three responses in all 50.This was followed by:Finding dog-friendly hotels (23.6%)Having to walk/exercise their dog (23.3%)The cost of owning a dog (22.9%)Excessive barking (19.8%)Excessive shedding (17.5%)The answer highlights the importance of finding and creating a list of trusted pet sitters before you need one. This ensures that you’re covered not only when making travel plans but also in the event of an emergency.There are many ways to find a trusted pet sitter. Consider asking your veterinarian, groomer, or friends/family for recommendations. You can also check websites like Fetch and Rover for pet sitters in your area or browse marketplace-style listings on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or Kijiji.Just make sure you are doing your due diligence. Don’t leave your beloved pet with a complete stranger. Instead, take time to ask questions, check reviews, and verify credentials.At the bottom of the list, the least reported annoyance was “when my dog jumps up on/lays on furniture or beds,” reported by only 5.32% of dog owners. Delaware and Missouri were the states where this was most often listed as one of their top annoyances, while those in New Hampshire, North Carolina, and Rhode Island reported it the least.Additionally, the following answers were at the bottom of the list:Having to take their dog to the groomer (7.55%)Excessive drooling/slobber (7.56%)Checking their dog for ticks (7.58%)Their dog taking over the bed (7.72%)Are you interested in a state-by-state breakdown? Forbes Advisor also shared a chart highlighting the top three pet peeves for each state, giving you a more detailed look at the opinions of other dog parents in your area.Overall, the survey provides a fascinating insight into the struggles faced by dog parents. For many, it may serve as a reminder that pet ownership isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Adding a dog to your family is a commitment, one that requires a willingness to make changes or sacrifices to meet their needs.If you occasionally struggle with frustration related to these changes, you’re not alone. Thousands of pet parents across the country also feel this way!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

10 Foods That Are Bad for Dogs
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Drug That Could Extend Lifespan of Senior Dogs Enters Clinical Trial

A new and revolutionary drug that could possibly extend the lifespan of healthy, senior dogs, is now entering a major clinical trial. It also has a first patient - an 11-year-old Whippet named Boo. Going by the codename LOY-002, this drug is designed to provide a few more years to senior dogs of most sizes. It is the product of a startup biotech company called  Loyal and is the fruit of their hard work and arduous research. Celine Halioua, the founder and CEO of Loyal, said that the company is working hard to develop several products aimed at the longevity of dogs. One of their initial projects, the LOY-001, was a drug aimed to extend the lifespan of giant and large dog breeds. In November of 2023, this project received the support of the FDA, paving the way for the company's further successes. The underlying mechanisms of aging were the first focus of the company as it developed LOY-001. The drug works by reducing IGF-1, an insulin-like growth factor that is a key biomarker hormone that drives cell growth. It is believed that this reduced the lifespan of extra-large dogs. Similarly, the LOY-002 project aims to extend the lifespan of normal-sized dogs, by improving their metabolic health and thus delaying the onset and the impact of diseases that come with old age. “LOY-002 is a slightly different mechanism [than LOY-001] for senior lifespan extension. It’s a little bit more of a reversal mechanism. It’s not going to make a 10-year-old dog a puppy, but we’ve seen a rescuing in age-related functional decline in dogs that have been treated with this drug,” said Halioua in an interview with  dvm360.The newest study for LOY-002 is expected to last 4 years, and include one thousand enrolled dogs. “It will be one of the largest veterinary clinical studies that, as far as we know, has ever been run,” added Halioua.The first ever receiver of the drug, Boo, was enrolled into the program in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, at the Animal Hospital of Dauphin County. There, an associate veterinary and STAY study investigator, Coby Rudakewiz, became a part of the program for the first time, witnessing its incredible potential. “I’m genuinely excited to be able to share what we’ve seen as a life-changing product to dogs of all sizes,” he said.“This is what it’s all about - keeping dogs feeling their best to enjoy a long life with their owners who love them.”“The launch of this study brings us one step closer to helping senior dogs have more, healthier years with their families…The scale and complexity of STAY reflect Loyal’s commitment to creating demonstrably effective and safe products,” Halioua added. “This is a massive undertaking that wouldn’t be possible without the partnership of the many veterinarians and technicians operating the study in their clinics, and the participating dogs and owners helping advance therapies for all dogs.”For the time being, the company is working hard to receive conditional approval for its revolutionary drug. This would allow them to begin offering it through veterinarians as soon as 2025. This could mean a world of difference for many senior doggos and their families. Seeing your senior doggo enjoy a few extra years without the issues common to old age is nothing short of true happiness, and would mean that the company’s hard efforts were not in vain. Ultimately, this innovative drug gives us hope for the future and makes us wonder what other ground-breaking drugs could we see in the years ahead.

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.

A Xmas Miracle: Shelter Empty for the First Time in Nearly 50 Years

It was a very merry Christmas for a Pennsylvania shelter whose kennels were empty for the first time in nearly 50 years. Just two weeks ago, the shelter was packed with cats and dogs. However, the staff and volunteers have been working around the clock to make sure the animals in their care got adopted into loving homes. The Adams County SPCA is overjoyed that the shelter is empty, especially during the holidays.“This is the first time in 47 years that the Adams County SPCA is empty let alone on Christmas time, it is a true miracle!” the shelter wrote on Facebook. “To say that we are beyond excited is an understatement! The staff and volunteers have worked very hard to take care of the animals in our care and to make sure they got adopted into the right home.”The organization had a busy year, taking care of 598 animals before adopting them into furever homes. The hardworking staff and volunteers also reunited 125 stay animals with their owners this year alone.Adams County SPCA kennel technician Tanya Hays said that in the last two weeks, the shelter found homes for 20 animals, either as adoptions or strays returned to their owners.“We had to get them all spayed and neutered, vaccinated, and tested for heartworms and thick-born illnesses while also processing a lot of (adoption) applications, so the staff worked really hard,” said Hays to TODAY.“It was pretty cool. It was quite a feat,” she added.The organization took to Facebook to thank their community. “Our community stepped up once again! We thank everyone for their continued support and look forward to new adventures in 2024!”Although it may seem like people are more motivated to adopt animals during the holidays, the shelter actually discourages people from giving pets as gifts because these animals are more likely to be returned to the shelter weeks later. While the staff and volunteers celebrated everything they achieved this year, they are already ready to get back to work. “We will be pulling animals from other shelters in Pennsylvania next week in hopes of relieving some of their stress,” the shelter shared. “Right now we are going to enjoy this accomplishment!”In a follow-up post, the organization shared that it has “received an overwhelming response” from different shelters across the country and also from Canada and Mexico. Members of the public have also reached out asking them to take in abandoned animals. “Even though our hearts break for them and the situation they are in we need to help the members of our community first,” the organization said. The Adams County SPCA is only taking animals from overwhelmed shelters in Pennsylvania and animals surrendered by residents within the county as well as those living in surrounding counties. “We are going to do the best we can to help as many animals and people we can.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Expats May Need to Leave their Pets Behind as Travel Costs Skyrocket

Animal travel has always been expensive, but it’s about to become unaffordable for many pet lovers. Pet owners moving abroad may be forced to leave their pets behind after animal travel costs have gone up by as much as 400 percent!IAG Cargo, a sister company to British Airways, Vueling, and Aer Lingus, has recently announced that it was raising travel prices along some routes beginning March 1. This unexpected move shocked pet owners with relocation plans, particularly those moving to and from Britain and the United States. “To reflect the complexities of this bespoke service and the cost of providing the very best care for pets traveling as cargo, we have made some amendments to our prices,” a spokesperson for IAG Cargo said in a statement. This shipping company is mostly used by military personnel to move their pets abroad while deployed. After three years at their duty station in the UK, Sara and her family are moving back to the U.S. The family’s two dogs, Bentley and Ghost, are booked on a British Airways flight on 1 March.Under the current policy, IAG Cargo only accepts a booking for a pet transfer up to six weeks before the flight. The company then confirms the space has been requested. Two weeks before the flight, once the planes have been scheduled on that route, the IAG Cargo confirms the booking, locking in the price.Initially, Sara’s family was quoted $1,450 for a flight from London to Baltimore for both dogs. However, due to the recent price hike, the travel price for the dogs has jumped to $6,500! And that’s without the administration fees and the cost of the agency the family is using to arrange the cargo shipment. “We are paying out of our own pocket for this, and we just bought a house in our new location,” said Sara to BBC. “Our dogs are like our children, we would do anything for them but that doesn’t mean it’s not devastating for our finances.”The family’s shipping agent found another airline that could ship their dogs at a lower price. The catch - they would have to make a seven-hour round trip to collect the dogs from another airport. Sara explained that her dogs are small in size and that she believes people shipping large-size dogs could face shipping costs over $10,000.“I already know a number of people who did not bring their pets [to the UK] because of the costs to bring them one way… People are going to be shocked,” she added.Details about the new pricing and affected routes are still unclear, but some companies that work with IAG Cargo are already seeing the effects. Kimberly Cirone, a director at Pets Abroad UK, a pet relocation company that assists pet owners with travel arrangements and works with airlines, said that the costs of pet transport between Britain and the United States have increased by 400 percent without warning, consideration, or explanation.The unexpected price hike has left many military families in turmoil as they are unable to gather the necessary funds in time to have their pets shipped back home. “It’s a huge amount to organize, and within days or weeks of arriving one of those family members may be sent on to areas of conflict. The dog or cat is hugely important, it is the family’s companion when one partner is away fighting and this will be hugely distressing for them.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Watch This Brave Cat Save Her Dog Sibling from a Coyote Attack

Who said that there is no love between cats and dogs? This touching story proves that some bonds between a cat and a dog are so strong that one would risk their life for the other! The event took place in Edmond, Oklahoma, where a tiny pooch was miraculously saved from a vicious coyote attack– by none other than a feisty cat. At first glance, Oakley, a white Havanese dog, and Binx, a black cat, seem to belong to completely different worlds. But even so, they are family. Lane Dyer, the owner of the two, explains for Oklahoma News how the attack - and the daring rescue - came to be.“I was kind of inspired by it, quite frankly,” she said. The event occurred on November 30th, when the 6-year-old Havanese dog, Oakley, was let outside to go to the bathroom. “Out of nowhere she was attacked by a coyote,” said Dyer. Soon enough, another coyote came rushing.

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