Paws For Veterans Trains Rescue Dogs To Help Heroes With PTSD

by Rachel Leavy

Published: November 11th, 2014

paws for veterans trains rescue dogs to help heroes with ptsd

In honor of Veterans Day, learn how you can help Paws for Veterans give disabled solders and rescue dogs a new lease on life.

For some soldiers, the battle doesn’t end when they return home. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a big problem for veterans returning home and trying to reintegrate into day-to-day life. Now, there is a new tool in the arsenal of recovery from PTSD – and it has four legs and a cold nose.

Paws for Veterans is a non-profit organization founded in 2010, and run by CEO Crystal Ayala. It is devoted to pairing combat wounded soldiers with service dogs. But the brilliance of this organization is they don’t use your typical service dogs. Not the golden retrievers you see leading the blind; but rescued shelter dogs. So not only are they helping soldiers, they are helping dogs in need.

The dogs are trained to work as a calming influence in potentially stressful situations, sensing the pheromone changes in their partner vets that indicate the type of elevated stress that may precede a panic attack. The dog then encourages the vet’s attention and petting, becoming a calming influence in a troubled moment. Additionally, the dogs use their bodies to provide a barrier and space between the vet and other people at times when crowding could be a trigger.

Not only does Paws for Veterans train service dogs for vets with PTSD, they also train them for helping vets with Traumatic Brain Injuries, and other physical disabilities occurred while on tour. The dogs are brought in from a shelter, and then trained individually for their person.

It’s so heartwarming to watch the veterans come out of their shells when around their dogs. I don’t have PTSD but my dog has certainly calmed my anxiety from time to time. These dogs have saved lives because they were given a second chance at their own life.

Nordic Naturals, a supplement company, has taken an interest in the organization and has decided to start a campaign to raise money for them. Nordic Naturals makes different omega supplements to aid in people and pet’s health. From now through December, a portion of purchases of certain products will support donations of the supplements to the vets and their service dogs (up to $30,000). The money will also go to funding a new training facility.

The Nordic Naturals’ ‘Buy One Bottle. Help Two Heroes’ campaign includes the following products: all sizes of the Baby’s DHA, Children’s DHA, Nordic Berries, Omega-3, Complete Omega, Ultimate Omega, Pet Cod Liver Oil, and Omega-3 Pet.

“Working with Paws for Veterans has engaged and fulfilled our entire team,” says Erin Hay, National Retail Pet Sales Representative. “They offer a human-animal bond solution to a very real problem in our country right now. In addition to supporting their efforts to build a new training facility, Nordic Naturals is supplying the program’s veterans and their rescued service dogs with omega-3 fish oil products. Ultimate Omega for adults supports heart, brain, and nervous system health, while promoting a positive mood. We are also donating Omega-3 Pet, which supports a dog or cat’s immune system, heart, skin and coat, and joint health.”

Everything about this is wonderful. Dogs who were scheduled for euthanasia get a chance at a new life. Veterans learn to cope and live a normal life again with a new best friend. We’ll stay on top of the progress and keep you informed on how plans for the new training facility are coming along. If you want to do more for this wonderful organization, please visit the Paws for Veterans website.

Rachel Leavy

Rachel Leavy lives in Rochester, New York with her dog, Maria, and her gecko, Nigel. She has loved animals all her life, and has owned her own dog training and walking company for five years. When she's not playing with puppies, she can usually be found writing short stories, riding horses or out at a play.

More by Rachel Leavy

RSPCA Blames Film and Social Media for Overcrowding in Shelters

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American Humane Turns Shelter Dogs to Service Dogs For Veterans

American Humane launches a new program that will take shelter dogs and train them to be service dogs for military veterans suffering from brain injuries and/or post traumatic stress. Military service members and veterans can suffer from life-changing Post Traumatic Stress ( PTS) and Traumatic Brain Injuries ( TBI) due to the nature of their service, and the American Humane wants to serve those American heroes and save the lives of shelter dogs at the same time. Related: HABRI Grants $42,000 To Study Effects Of Service Dogs On War Veterans With PTSD President and CEO of American Humane, Dr. Robin Ganzert, says that every day, 20 American veterans commit suicide on average, and it is estimated that nearly 700,000 dogs a year are euthanized in United States shelters. Working through the Lois Pope Life Center for Military Affairs, American Humane will attempt to make a dent in both of those numbers, by launching this program. Research shows that service dogs trained to work with PTS and TBI patients make life-long, and often lifesaving, impact on the lives of those veterans who suffer with those issues. The problem is that wait lists are long because the training process takes time and can cost up to $20,000 per dog to specially train. American Humane plans to offer PTS and TBI service dogs to veterans in need fully at their own expense; veterans who receive the dogs will not pay anything. Related: Paws For Veterans Trains Rescue Dogs To Help Heroes With PTSD Currently, the Department of Defense does not pay for the training and/or delivery of specialized service dogs to its veterans, with the exception of a sometimes-stipend of $500, and that is not always guaranteed. While many are lobbying to make that different, corporate sponsors of American Humane’s veterans’ assistance program like Hallmark Channel, Kriser’s Natural Pet and Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, as well as individual donors’ generous donations are currently making the program possible.

Fidelco Receives $100,000 To Train Service Dogs For Veterans

Thanks to a $100,000 grant from the US Department of Defense, the Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation places two service dogs free of charge to visually impaired vets. Did you realize that there are more than 160,000 veterans living in the United States who are visually impaired? These stats were compiled by the US Department of Veterans Affairs and there’s more: close to 17 percent of those wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan suffered a severe trauma to their eyes which resulted in vision loss. These stats are what drove the US Department of Defense (DOD) to award Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation a grant of more than $100,000 to place two of its specially trained German Shepherd Guide Dogs with service members or veterans who experienced eye injuries while on active duty. Related: Paws For Veterans Trains Rescue Dogs To Help Heroes With PTSD You see, the internationally acclaimed guide dog foundation is a non-profit that has become known for its rigorous training and high standards. In fact, each of Fidelco’s German Shepherd Dogs takes two years, 15,000 hours, and $45,000 to breed, train, and place – at no fee – to clients. And even after their pooches have been placed, they continue to provide 24/7 client support for the entire working life of the dog (typically 10 years). To date, Fidelco has trained and placed more than 1,400 dogs throughout North America to individuals, law enforcement agencies, first responders and search and rescue organizations. Because they are dependent solely on the generosity and financial support of individuals, foundations, corporations, and civic organizations, the DOD grant represents a tremendous boost to their training budget. Related: Dogs Help People Who Have Seen Too Much [Video] “Trained guide dogs offer life-changing assistance for wounded and visually impaired veterans, allowing for independence and mobility that may otherwise have been out of reach,” said Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) who was just one of the many congressmen and women supporting the initiative. “This federal award is a small recognition of Fidelco’s long-time commitment to our nation’s veterans, and the outstanding work they do to provide guide dogs to those in need.” Fidelco’s “Share the Vision with Service Members and Veterans” program is dedicated to creating successful partnerships between veterans and guide dogs. Eliot Russman, Fidelco’s President and CEO says, “Fidelco has been raising awareness for the past five years among our nation’s leaders about the needs of its blinded military heroes…. we are most appreciative of the unanimous support received from Connecticut’s federal legislators.” To learn more or to support this wonderful organization, visit Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation’s official website.

HABRI Grants $42,000 To Study Effects Of Service Dogs On War Veterans

K9s For Warriors and Purdue University will use this grant money to come to the rescue of post 9/11 war vets, providing help to soldiers overcoming Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Our canine companions are taking their place on the front lines to help post 9-11 war veterans combat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). And who better than man’s best friend to help our dedicated soldiers overcome these common and crippling conditions? Their loyalty, patience, and calming nature makes pooches the ideal candidates in supporting people with physical disabilities, and promoting mental wellbeing, healthy aging and child development. But while the benefits of service dogs are widely recognized, they are yet to be scientifically and medically proven when it comes to war veterans suffering from PTSD and TBI. Here’s where the Human Animal Bond Research Initiative (HABRI) comes in. Related: Paws For Veterans Trains Rescue Dogs To Help Heroes With PTSD The Science of the Human-Animal Bond HABRI, a non-profit organization dedicated to funding, studying and sharing animal impacts on human health, has just announced a $42,000 grant to Purdue University to monitor the effects that dogs have on vets suffering from PTSD and TBI. Approximately one in five post 9-11 war veterans are affected by these debilitating mental disorders, which can result in flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts that don’t go away (source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs). In coordination with the K9s For Warriors program – a non-profit that trains and pairs service dogs with soldiers-turned-civilians at no cost – Purdue researchers will monitor participants’ health and wellness, and the progress of their treatment with the benefit of dogs compared to that without. Related: Dogs Help People Who Have Seen Too Much [Video] Hypothesis: Dogs Rule The clinical study will look at the furry-friend factor when it comes to patients’ medical, physiological, and self-perception indicators. The anticipated outcome? Dogs rule and thus, will come out head and tails above of the dog-free treatment options, many of which are shown to have limited success and high drop-out rates. And K9s For Warriors is proof of success – their dogs are mitigate the symptoms of PTSD to help vets return to civilian life and gain independence. It’s important to note that service dogs aren’t intended to replace any existing therapies, which include cognitive behavioral therapy and medications, but rather to enhance them. And let’s face it – dogs really do make everything better, don’t they? If you want to donate and help solders get a new “leash” on life, please visit K9s For Warriors website.

Marine Veteran Opens a Pup-alicious Christmas Present [Video]

Many war veterans return from service suffering the effects of PTSD. One Florida veteran received a surprise early Christmas gift that will bring a few tears to your eyes. Christmas came early for 26-year-old Marine Veteran Peter Coukoulis, from Tallahassee, Florida, when his family surprised him with a sweet little Beagle puppy. The shelter that the pup was rescued from had been calling her “Willa” because she seemed to have the will to live, and the Peter’s family thought that was the perfect pet for him.

Veteran and Service Dog Couldn’t Find Work… Until Lowes Hired Them

An Instagram pic from Abilene, Texas home improvement store Lowes has gone viral, and it has everything to do with a new, furry, four-legged employee! Military Veterans often struggle at home because resuming life as normal isn’t so easy. They often return from war or exit service needing service animals themselves, to help combat with effects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or other conditions they suffer from as a result of their military contributions. Finding a job that will allow service animals can be very difficult. One Air Force veteran, Clay Luthy, found that to be the case. His service dog, Charlotte, accompanies him everywhere, which makes it difficult for him to find appropriate work. That’s where a home improvement store in Abilene, Texas became our heroes. Lowes human resources manager, Jay Fellers, said that they were surprised that it had been hard for Clay to find work, as he was their top candidate in a hiring process that ultimately ended with both Luthy AND Charlotte being hired at their store. Related: Army Veteran Gets The Fur-Prise Of His Life At New York Giants Game Fellers said that being a good worker didn’t have anything to do with whether one needed a service dog or not, but not only has Luthy been a great employee, Charlotte has been a bonus to have in the store. She is well-received by all of the customers who come into the store, especially the children. Fellers said that customers appreciate Charlotte and love her, and that his store has really enjoyed having both Charlotte and her person as part of their staff. Related: Paws For Veterans Trains Rescue Dogs To Help Heroes WIth PTSD “If someone is a good worker, it shouldn’t matter if they have a service dog. But in our case, it’s been an absolute benefit to have Charlotte around,” said Fellers. “She’s a great hit with the folks who come around our store, especially the kids. Our customers really love and appreciate her. It’s been a good time having them as part of our staff.”

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BARK Air Introduces a New Flight Tailored for Dogs

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San Juan Puerto Rico’s Iconic Stray Felines to Be Evicted

One-year deadline imposed by the US National Park Service to shift almost 200 cats from 16th-century El Morro fortress.

Felix Cat Insurance Will Pay Your Engagement Ring – On One Condition

If you're ready to tie the knot, you should know that there’s a way to make this special occasion even more memorable – by including your furball in the proposal. Not only is it an adorable way to ask for someone’s hand in  marriage, but thanks to Felix Cat Insurance, it can also be a way to get a gorgeous ring for free! This company is launching “A Purr-fect Proposal” campaign, aiming to help one couple of cat lovers celebrate that special moment in their lives. The aim of the campaign is to cover the costs of an engagement ring and the only requirement is to include your cat in the proposal!December is truly a magical month, so it doesn’t surprise that it’s also the most popular month to get engaged – which is why Felix Cat Insurance chose this month to bring their plan to fruition. The contest is open until December 19th, and the company will choose one lucky winner whose kitty-centered proposal plan sounds the best three days after that, on December 22nd. The winner will be gifted $4,750 or have the cost of an engagement ring covered. Not only that, but they will also receive a package of cat treats, festive toys, and even elegant cat clothes for their furry helper – to wear on the special occasion, of course. "Our felines are family members and just like your closest friends and family, we want to include them in celebrating meaningful moments like this," said Jamie Maxfield, Marketing Director and Brand Expert at Felix Cat Insurance. "Planning for the future can also bring challenges, which is why we're spreading holiday cheer by easing the expense of this life milestone as you, your partner, and your furry friend embark on your new life together. Not only is Felix here to ease the expense of this core life event, but we can also be there every step of the way afterwards."Here are the contest details as laid out by the company:Prize:$4,750 to put toward an engagement ring. A curated kit of treats and surprises so your furry friend can join in on the celebration. Dates: The contest opens on November 28th, 2023 at 12:01 a.m. EST and ends at 11:59 p.m. EST on December 19, 2023. The winner will be selected on December 22, 2023. Eligibility & Rules: You must live in the United States.You must be 18+ in age. The proposal must take place within the month of December. This contest is not available in Washington or Puerto Rico. For more information on the "Purr-fect Proposal" contest, including terms and conditions, visit  FelixPurrfectProposal.com. Good luck – and congrats on the engagement to be!

Auf Wiedersehen Wiener Dog - Will Germany Ban Dachshunds?

Germany’s beloved dog breed, the dachshund, could soon be banned under a new law that prohibits the breeding of dogs with “skeletal anomalies”.The draft of the bill, published in February, is currently being reviewed by the authorities and was introduced as a part of the Animal Protection Act. The new bill aims to strengthen existing laws on “torture breeding” and to regulate the online animal trade. The draft of the protection law said it could ban the reproduction of breeds prone to particular health problems, such as spinal problems linked with short legs and long back which are characteristic of the dachshund breed.According to the German Kennel Club (VDH), the bill could be interpreted as a ban on breeding dogs with any major size deviation from the original wolf type. In addition to dachshunds, other dog breeds like the German shepherd, miniature schnauzer, beagle, and Jack Russell terrier could be affected by the bill. The breeding restrictions could also be applied to flat-faced breeds like the English bulldog, pug, and French bulldog.“Some of the disease characteristics listed in the draft law are too vague and undefined,” said Leif Kopernik, the chief executive of the VDH. “Whether too small or too large, if the Animal Welfare Act were to be implemented in its current form, many popular and healthy breeds could be banned from breeding,” he said, according to the New York Times. The VDH has launched a petition to save “our favorite dogs” saying the proposed bill would leave too much room for interpretation in deciding what can be considered a genetic defect. The German Kennel Club agrees that many of the proposed changes, such as stricter regulations for online animal trade and taking action against illegal puppy trade are good measures that make sense. “However, the animal protection law contains requirements that could mean the end of many healthy dog breeds in Germany,” said VDH on its website.Although the proposed changes could affect several dog breeds, the dachshund is at the center of the discussion. Often called dackel by Germans, the dachshund has been the country’s national symbol for many years. The breed has been around for several centuries and was bred specifically for digging and clawing into underground dens to hunt for badgers. These sausage-shaped dogs have strong claws and sharp teeth which proved extremely useful when hunting. According to Sandra Karthauser, a breeder of rough-haired dachshunds from Munster, there is no evidence that dachshunds are sick due to their appearance. However, she admits that certain breed lines might be predisposed to herniated discs and other health issues.“But to ban the whole breed because of this, that doesn’t make sense to me. Then you can also ban Labradors because some suffer from hip dysplasia along with other breeds that might suffer from debilitating diseases and ailments,”  she added.Germany’s agricultural ministry refuted that the new bill would ban particular dog breeds, including the dachshund. “We aren’t seeking to ban the dachshund. What we are aiming at with this reform is a ban on torture breeding.”The goal of this new regulation is to forbid breeding practices that cause long-term suffering to the dogs. “We want to consistently protect animals from pain, suffering, and damage,” said the ministry adding that the new bill is still being reviewed. Germany’s dachshund lovers and breeders hope the breeding ban won’t happen now or in the future. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How To Tell if a Cat Is Cold

Despite your cat’s luxurious coat, they can feel cold sometimes, and it’s important to make it easy for them to warm up because, if they get too cold, they could become hypothermic. Keep reading to learn how to spot the signs that your cat is cold, and how to help them feel warm and comfortable.Signs Your Cat Is ColdCats of all ages and breeds can feel the effects of the cold, but kittens, seniors, and those who are ill are more susceptible. And, of course, hairless cats can get cold even faster. Here are some of the ways to tell if your cat is cold:Your cat’s body feels cold – Feel your cat’s body to see if they’re cold to the touch. If their ears, paws, and tail are colder than normal, they may need help warming up. Your cat’s posture changes – A cat who’s cold may curl up in a ball to try to warm up. You might also find them puffing up their fur or they might be in a hunched position as they try to conserve heat. Your cat is looking for warmer spots – A kitty who’s feeling the chill in the air will find the warmest spots in the house. They might get under the thick blanket on your bed, or they might insist on sitting in your lap. And you might find them spending more time near a heater or fireplace. During the day, they might also move to areas that get more sunshine to feel its warmth.Your cat isn’t as active – When a cat feels too cold, they may become less active. If your pet is sleeping more or appears lethargic, first make sure that another medical issue isn’t to blame. If it’s because they’re cold, take action to warm them up, including turning up the heat in your home. Bear in mind that cats with certain conditions, such as arthritis, might feel even more discomfort when it’s cold, and this can lead to changes in activity level and behavior too.Your cat starts shivering – Like people, cats shiver when they’re very cold, and this is a sign that you need to warm them up right away. But because this could also be a symptom of other problems, from illness and pain to stress and fear, be sure to determine if temperature is really the culprit.What To Do if Your Cat Is ColdThere are many ways to help your feline friend feel cozy and comfortable, such as:Give your cat a cozy bed and blanket in a warm spotWhen you see that your cat is feeling cold, give them a warm bed that they can rest in to warm up. There are heated beds that you plug in, as well as self-warming beds that work without electricity. Plus, there are heated pads that can be helpful in making your kitty feel cozy. And you can let your cat crawl under a soft blanket for extra warmth. Just be sure to use heated beds and pads as directed to prevent injuries. Let your cat relax in a warm area in the house, such as near a heat source or in a spot where the sunshine streams in during the day. Move your pet away from drafts.Snuggle with your catOnce your cat finds a comfortable spot on the bed or sofa, you can lie down next to them to help them warm up with your body heat. They’re sure to love the attention, and you’ll get to be near your purring feline friend.  Put sweaters on your catAs long as your kitty doesn’t mind wearing clothes, you can use sweaters to keep them warm on chilly days. This is especially useful for hairless kitties. And you can use clothes to keep your cat warm while exploring the outdoors with you.Protect cats who spend time outsideIf your pet is an adventure cat who goes outside with you, or an indoor/outdoor cat who goes out on their own, check outdoor temperatures first. Generally, it’s best to let them spend time outside only when it’s at least 45°F (7°C), but every cat is different, so some might only feel comfortable when it’s even warmer than that.Whenever it’s cold, raining, windy, or snowing, keep them indoors until the weather clears and warms up. Remember, cats who are cold or wet for too long are at risk of frostbite and hypothermia.Note: If you have an outdoor cat, they’ll look for shelter to stay as warm as possible, so give them a safe and dry outdoor enclosure that will protect them from the elements if you can’t bring them into your home, which would be preferable.Check Out These Products That Help Cats Stay WarmHere are a few products we recommend for keeping your cat warm: K&H Thermo-Kitty Bed Deluxe Hooded

Study Shows Shape of a Dog’s Head Can Actually Affect Their Sleep

If you have noticed that your dog’s sleep quality is reduced, or that they have begun to snore heavily, there might be an unusual reason behind it – the shape of your pet’s head! Snoring problems can be quite common for many dogs, but they are most often seen in brachycephalic dogs – basically, dogs with flat faces. For example, this is the key characteristic of the  French Bulldog, one of the world’s most popular breeds. In the USA, and in Hungary where the research for these claims was conducted, the goofy little French Bulldog holds the place of the number one most common pet dog breed. And that means that some health-related issues, stemming from their flat-face appearance, are coming into the foreground. Their shortened skulls and brachycephalic morphology result in sleep problems, snoring, difficulties with breathing, and deteriorative brain morphology changes. According to the latest  study by a Hungarian research team, flat-faced dogs tend to sleep more because their breed suffers from sleep apnea and thus their daytime sleepiness is increased. Thus, their REM (deep) sleep phase is much longer than their non-REM sleep, while the EEG patterns in their sleep indicate signs of white matter loss. And while some owners across the world see these Bulldogs and their extremely flat skulls as an attractive or unique feature, it is, nonetheless, a major health hazard. These breeds, for example, the French Bulldog, the Pug, and the English Bulldog tend to live around 3 to 4 years less than other dogs, and in many cases, they don’t even live to adulthood.Some will even have to undergo surgery to correct their musculoskeletal, respiratory, and eye problems, which can cause them a lot of problems throughout their lives. To make matters worse, the rounded and short skull of these dogs results in a distorted and rounded brain, which could affect neural functioning.All this resulted in the Hungarian team’s extensive research into the sleep of these breeds. They studied the sleep of 92 dogs, using EEG. "In the sleep lab, dogs spend about three hours with their owners. As nothing exciting happens, the dogs fall asleep quickly. Meanwhile, we conduct the electrical potential generated by the brain activity with electrodes glued to their scalps," says Anna Kis, who is considered a pioneer in the study of sleeping dogs and a researcher at the HUN-REN Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology. "We wanted to investigate whether flat-faced dogs sleep differently from other dogs, as they are known to suffer from oxygen deprivation due to respiratory problems and therefore have poorer quality sleep. We found that the flat-faced dogs slept more in the three hours given to them during the study. More daytime sleep is probably compensation for insufficient sleep at night.”Ivaylo Iotchev, the first author of a study of dog sleep patterns that was published in the Journal of Brain Structure and Function, adds "In the present study, we found that brachycephalic dogs had decreased beta waves and increased delta compared to dogs with longer noses. The frequency of sleep spindles increased. This pattern has previously been associated with poorer learning in dogs and loss of white matter in humans."He also adds "There may be several reasons for our results. The most interesting of these is that it seems as if the flat-faced dogs have retained the sleep pattern of puppyhood, similarly to newborns who spend more time in REM sleep.”If you own a brachycephalic dog and have been seeing a lack of quality in their sleep, these studies might provide the answers you are looking for – your pooch’s genetics might be to blame for their poor sleep.

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Why Are Labradors Fat? Scientists Have the Answer

The friendly, playful, and trainable Labrador is one of the most popular dog breeds around the world. But, few canines are as obsessed with food as Labrador retrievers - and now scientists think they have discovered why. According to new research, a quarter of labs are predisposed to obesity due to a genetic mutation.Approximately 25 percent of Labradors face a double-whammy of burning fewer calories and feeling hungry all the time because of an anomaly. Scientists explain that this obesity-causing combination means dog owners must be strict when feeding and exercising their labs to keep them fit.The mutation is found in the gene called POMC, which plays an important role in energy use and hunger, and affects how dogs behave around food. Around 25 percent of Labradors and 66 percent of flat-coated retrievers are affected by POMC mutation, which puts these dogs at risk of obesity and causes increased interest in food.Researchers found that although these dogs don’t need to eat more to feel full, they are hungrier in between meals. The study also showed that dogs with the POMC mutation use around 25 percent less energy when resting than dogs without it. As a result, these pooches don’t need to eat as many calories to maintain a healthy weight. “We found that a mutation in the POMC gene seems to make dogs hungrier. Affected dogs tend to overeat because they get hungry between meals more quickly than dogs without the mutation,” said Dr. Eleanor Raffan, a researcher in the University of Cambridge’s Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience who led the study. “All owners of Labradors and flat-coated retrievers need to watch what they’re feeding these highly food-motivated dogs to keep them a healthy weight. But dogs with this genetic mutation face a double whammy: they not only want to eat more, but also need fewer calories because they’re not burning them off as fast,” she added.The study found that the POMC mutation alters a pathway in dogs’ brains associated with body weight regulation. The mutated genes trigger the starvation signal that sends a message to the body to increase food intake and conserve energy.The study involved 87 adult pet Labradors, all at a healthy weight or moderately obese. The dogs were subjected to several tests, including ‘the sausage in the box’ test. The dogs were first given a can of wet dog food every 20 minutes until they couldn’t eat any more. All labs eat huge amounts of food, but what’s interesting is that dogs with POMC didn’t eat more food than the dogs without it.On a different day, all dogs were given the same breakfast. Three hours later they were offered a sausage in a box made of clear plastic and a perforated lid, so the dogs could see and smell the sausage but not eat it.Scientists discovered that labs with POMC mutation tried harder to get the sausage than the dogs without it, showing greater hunger. In another test, the dogs were allowed to sleep in a special chamber that measured the gases they breathed out. This test showed that labs with POMC mutation burn 25 percent fewer calories than dogs without it. According to researchers, people are often rude to owners of fat dogs, criticizing them for not feeding and exercising their dogs properly. However, this study has shown that labs with POMC are trying to increase their energy intake by looking for food all the time. Keeping these dogs slim is challenging, but possible. Spreading out daily food rations, by using puzzle feeders to slow down feeding or scattering the food around the yard so it takes longer to eat are ways owners can keep their Labradors distracted from constant hunger. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Often Should I Clean My Bird's Cage?

Parrots and small birds are exceptionally vulnerable when their cage is left unkempt and dirty – proper hygiene and a clean space to rest and eat in are a must for the good health of all avians. What is more, a bird cage that is left unclean can become a threat to your health as well, with airborne bacteria and pathogens flying all over the place. All in all, it’s clear that regular cleaning of your bird's cage shouldn’t be seen as just a dull chore but as a necessary task to protect everyone’s health and wellbeing. However, while it’s obvious that you need to do it regularly, just how often should you clean your bird’s cage? Is it on a check-and-see basis or is there a recommended frequency of cleaning? Let’s find out.How Often Should I Clean My Bird's Cage?The frequency at which you should clean the cage depends on several factors, including the size of the cage, the number of birds you have, and the species of bird in question. For example, a smaller cage will get dirty in no time, while a large one that houses a single, bigger bird will remain cleaner for longer. While these are good starting guidelines, things are not that simple.The best approach to take is to clean the cage daily, weekly, and monthly. Of course, the amount of cleaning you do each day will differ from the one you do on a monthly basis – here’s how it should look like:Daily Cleaning:Change the  food and water dishes daily to ensure fresh food and clean water. This is imperative and a major part of caring for your bird. Don’t allow water to remain unchanged and food to go stale.

Are Bengal Cats Really That Wild? Here's What Science Has to Say.

Bengal cats are a truly stunning feline breed, in many ways. According to the International Cat Association (TICA), they hold the title of being the most popular cat breed globally, and it doesn’t really come as a surprise. Their unique and exotic appearance, their unavoidable charm, and their slender physique are certainly the reason for this prestigious title. But even though they are popular, Bengal cats are a relatively new breed in the field of domesticated cats. While most ordinary domestic cat breeds have been around for thousands of years, Bengal cats have been around for less than a century, which comes as a stark contrast. They are a hybrid breed as well, having been created in the 1960s. They came about from the crossing of the domestic cat (Felis Catus), and the Asian Leopard cats (Prionailurus Bengalensis), which are a small, spotted, wild cat species living in Asia. What makes the combination unique is the fact that these two cat species had a common ancestor about 6 million years ago, which means that the genetic differences between them are incredible. The differences are even greater than between humans and chimpanzees!The resulting breed is the Bengal cat, and it is adored for its exotic appearance. It has special spots, just like ocelots or leopards. But most folks ascribe the unique coloration and patterns of these felines to the DNA they received from their wild and distantly related ancestors. And that’s why scientific folks paid special attention to the ancestry of Bengal cats. Greg Barsh, MD, Ph.D., Faculty Investigator at HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology and Professor of Genetics at Stanford University,  himself an expert in the genetics of feline coat coloration and patterning is a key figure in the research process of Bengal ancestry. Together with his team, which is led by Chris Kaelin, Ph.D., and Kelly McGowan, MD, Ph.D., Mr. Barsh is working hard towards unraveling Bengal ancestry through the genetics of popular color traits."Cats are wonderful companions," he explains for  Phys.org, "but our interests go beyond their beautiful and exotic appearance. Like the amazing variation among different dog breeds, artificial selection can be a very powerful engine to create morphologic diversity. What's different about Bengal cats from dogs is the raw genetic material–dogs trace their heritage to wolves from tens of thousands of years ago.""In contrast, Bengal cats trace their heritage to completely different species from millions of years ago. Understanding how these distantly related genomes interact is a general question that applies to any situation when different species exchange genes, from crops to aquaculture to humans and Neandertals."And even though this is a relatively new breed, started about 60 years ago by a few cat enthusiasts, it has grown incredibly during this time. Today, there are hundreds of thousands of registered Bengal cats, which are produced by about 2,000 breeders. Chris Kaelin, the leader of the Bengal cat DNA study, said “Cat fanciers and breeders are very interested in the research, in part because they want to know more about the science behind artificial selection, and in part, because they want to know if our results can help them produce cats with rosettes, stripes, or other exotic markings.” He also added "This is a great example of citizen science–our work has been enabled by the willingness of breeders to participate, and we share our results with the community."One of the surprising discoveries that was produced from the study is that Asian Leopard DNA contributes no more than a few percent to the overall Bengal Cat DNA. In fact, it is revealed that there isn’t one or even a few Asian leopard genes that are causing the unique spotted Bengal appearance. "One of the original motivations for bringing together DNA from the two species was to select for Asian leopard DNA that would recapitulate the appearance of an exotic wild cat in a companion animal," said Kaelin. "It turns out that some of the most striking examples of selection in the breed are for traits that were already present, but very rare, in domestic cats."So, the study reveals that the Bengals are in many ways totally unique. Mixing the two very unique breeds resulted in a cat that is exotic, elegant, charming, and above all loveable. And now, the results published are providing valuable information to all the enthusiasts in love with the Bengal breed. 

Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?

Final Thoughts - Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?Excessive barking can be frustrating and, if left unaddressed, can put you, as the owner, in a difficult situation. In some places, this can lead to fines or even eviction due to noise complaints. Unfortunately, the process of training a dog to stop barking isn’t one that is usually solved overnight – but it can be done! While you might have seen it recommended to use an “anti-bark” muzzle to stop your dog’s barking, it is not recommended for anything more than a 10 to 15-minute quick fix. Not only does it not teach your dog not to bark in the future, but the muzzle's design could create a dangerous situation. Instead, start by identifying the cause. Is your dog overly excited? Is there a trigger that makes them feel fearful and stressed? Are they trying to protect you when someone walks onto your property? Knowing the trigger will help you not only stop it but also manage your dog’s barking in the short term. If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact a professional trainer or certified behaviorist to offer guidance and direction. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can Stress or Anxiety Cause Diarrhea in Dogs?

Dogs are no strangers to stress and anxiety. While most pooches are the picture of the tail-wagging, carefree dog whose only stress is that they have to wait for their next meal, some have it a bit more ruff. Anxiety in dogs can vary from mild to severe, triggered by specific and occasional stressors (such as  fireworks, for example) or present on a daily level. Naturally, your pet’s state of mind has a big impact on their overall health, so it doesn’t surprise that dogs with anxiety often have tummy issues. But does that mean that a stressful situation or anxiety can directly cause diarrhea in dogs? Having in mind that, in a way, your pet’s mental health is connected to their digestion, it sounds highly probable.How Stress and Anxiety Can Cause DiarrheaSo how does it work? The connection between the brain and the gut, often referred to as the gut-brain axis, plays a crucial role in the overall health and well-being of dogs. When dogs experience stress or anxiety, it can trigger a cascade of physiological responses, including changes in gut motility, secretion of digestive enzymes, and alterations in the composition of gut microbiota. These disruptions can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea.When stress or anxiety takes hold, it's not just a matter of frazzled nerves. These emotional states can set off a domino effect within your dog's digestive system. Rather than a simple list of effects, think of it as a cascade of events:Picture your dog feeling anxious during a  thunderstorm or while being left alone. This emotional response triggers a surge of adrenaline, part of the body's "fight or flight" response. Blood flow shifts away from the digestive organs and toward the muscles, heart, and lungs, hastening gut motility.Meanwhile, the delicate balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, known as the microbiome, is disrupted by stress. This dysbiosis can lead to inflammation, changes in gut permeability, and an upset stomach.Furthermore, chronic stress weakens the immune system, leaving your dog more susceptible to infections and inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.Beyond these physiological effects, stress-related behaviors like excessive chewing,  licking, or ingesting non-food items can irritate the digestive tract, exacerbating diarrhea.How To Deal With Stress-Related Diarrhea in DogsIf your dog is experiencing stress-related diarrhea, there are several things you can do to alleviate their discomfort and ensure a speedier recovery.Before anything else, it’s essential to identify and address stressors. Determine the underlying causes of your dog's stress or anxiety and take steps to minimize or eliminate them where possible. This may involve providing a calm, predictable environment, addressing separation anxiety, or using  desensitization techniques for noise phobias.Next, support their digestion with a mild, nurturing diet and the right supplements. Your pet’s tummy is upset, so you shouldn’t neglect the importance of rebalancing their gut biome and helping their digestion. Instead of their usual kibble, offer them a bit of broth, some cooked rice, or boiled chicken breast. Additionally, a digestive supplement such as  Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets FortiFlora Powder can work wonders in managing symptoms of diarrhea. With a combination of special probiotics and antioxidants, this powdered supplement will quickly restore your pet’s GI tract and help their stool get back to its normal consistency. And since it’s packed with live microorganisms to benefit beneficial intestinal microflora, it can also help treat excessive gas and other digestion-related troubles, so it’s good to keep stocked in your pet’s first aid kit, especially if they have a sensitive stomach. 

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