Cats

Fish

Rabbits

Birds

Horses

Best Dog Health Products

Patrick
by Patrick
Published:  January 14th, 2019

We all want for our pets to have long and happy lives, and to be as healthy as they can! To ensure this, you will need to provide a well-balanced, wholesome diet that meets your pooch’s nutritive needs, as well as plenty of exercise that will keep them fit and active. However, this is only the beginning: healthy food and an appropriate amount of physical activity can only set up a good foundation for your pooch. In order to promote their overall well-being, you’ll need to take action to prevent health issues down the road.

Sometimes, even that won’t save your pooch from experiencing problems with their health, so it’s important to be prepared to help them when and if the need arises. For this, you’ll need to know which health supplies you need to always have with you, and which of them can be used to treat your dog’s specific problem.

Best Dog Health

Features

Available At

Doggie Dailies Glucosamine for Dogs

    • A natural and delicious joint supplement for dogs that provides vital vitamins, minerals, essential enzymes, and nutrients your dog needs for natural energy and strength.
    • Powerful blend of ingredients proven to support dog joint health, improve mobility and ease discomfort.

Wisdom Panel 3.0 Canine Genetic Ancestry Test Kit for Dogs

Check Price
    • Genetic testing can help you identify breeds & specific health issues that may be important to the wellbeing of your dog.

Genetic testing can help you identify breeds & specific health issues that may be important to the wellbeing of your dog.

    • Work with your veterinarian & use your results to develop training, nutrition & long-term healthcare plans.

LOGIC REMEDY (1000mg) Organic Hemp Extract & Essential Oil Blend

Check Price
    • Consists of USDA certified organic ingredients including essential oil, hemp seed oil and hemp extract blend, helps relieve stress and anxiety.

Consists of USDA certified organic ingredients including essential oil, hemp seed oil and hemp extract blend, helps relieve stress and anxiety.

    • Helps to keep joints lubricated & pain free, regenerate cartilage, & reduce arthritis, promote cardiovascular and neurological health while supporting overall well-being of your pet.

Ruji Naturals Superfood Dog Bites

Check Price
    • Moringa tree leaves are loaded with the Vitamins, Minerals, and Amino Acids your dog needs on a daily basis.

Moringa tree leaves are loaded with the Vitamins, Minerals, and Amino Acids your dog needs on a daily basis.

    • Moringa leaves are packed with incredible antioxidants which can help prevent inflammation in your dog’s hips and joints and boost your dog’s immune system.

ActivFlex Glucosamine for Dogs

General Dog Health

Check Price
    • Plano Paws ActivFlex Superior advanced joint support for dogs provides the best ingredients to help your dog improve mobility, flexibility, and decrease pain.

Plano Paws ActivFlex Superior advanced joint support for dogs provides the best ingredients to help your dog improve mobility, flexibility, and decrease pain.

    • ActivFlex No heat process maintains ingredient integrity while giving your dog flavorful nutritious glucosamine dog treats that your dog will love.

ActivFlex No heat process maintains ingredient integrity while giving your dog flavorful nutritious glucosamine dog treats that your dog will love.

When it comes to prevention of common dog health issues, some health supplies are an absolute must. For instance, using supplements and vitamins to enrich your pet’s diet can play an important role in the long run. Whether it’s to counteract some breed-specific health issues or to boost your dog’s immune system, including supplements can make a significant change for your pup.

Some breeds must have supplements for hip and joint care due to inherited issues with bones or need special attention paid to their dental care – giving them the right supplements or medications on time can make a world of difference for your beloved pet. PetGuide.com can help you find the right health supplies for your pet’s age group, breed, and specific needs – there’s no need to go through numerous brands if you can get it right on the first try!

Common Dog Parasites

Additionally, regular preventative treatment with vet-recommended flea and tick supplies will keep your pampered pooch free of pesky, and, oftentimes, dangerous, parasites. Both fleas and ticks can carry diseases and cause serious medical problems for your pet! Flea bites are one of the most common causes of allergic reactions in canines to boot so it would be handy to have itch remedies ready in case you notice your pet scratching.

Tick bites are far more dangerous than fleas as they are carriers of potentially lethal diseases, so knowing how to pull out a tick and which tool to use can make a huge difference in the outcome of the situation. Of course, you won’t need the same repellents and supplies if you live in the country or in the city center: it’s all individual. If you’re not completely sure what preventative treatments you need to give to your new pet or wonder about some symptoms they have, you’ll find all the resources you need to make the right decision here at PetGuide.com.

Dog Health and Prevention

While the saying ” an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” definitely holds true, sometimes the damage has already been done and you need to treat a specific problem or illness that your pet already has. You might have adopted a sick senior dog, or have a purebred pet that has inherited an issue from his ancestors – but with right health supplies, you may be able to improve their condition or at least make it easier for them to bear it. Granted, not even a trusted source for pet parents such as PetGuide.com can be a replacement for a consult and exam by a licensed veterinary professional, so make sure to first visit a vet clinic before you make any decisions about your dog’s health.

Accidents and Emergencies

There is also the matter of your dog being in an accident, in which case you need to act quickly to be able to help them. It can be a case of dog poisoning, an injury, or an unexpected seizure, it’s all the same when it boils down to it. Having the right health supplies on hand, and knowing how to use it might be the thing that ends up saving your dog’s life in an emergency!

That’s why every pet parent should have a first aid kit for their four-legged family member, in cases of emergency or accidents. At PetGuide.com, you will learn how to assemble your own kit at home, and find out all about health supplies no furry-friendly home should be without: from emergency supplies for treating wounds on the way to the vet, first aid for dog poisoning, to over-the-counter medications and remedies that can treat minor health troubles successfully, it’s important to get everything on the must-have list.

Sometimes, especially if you have a dog prone to a specific set of problems, such as sensitive tummy issues or susceptibility to fungal issues, even your vet might instruct you to make an at-home health supplies kit that would include things like digestive remedies or products for eye care and ear care, that would help your pet until you’re able to get him to the vet’s office.

PetGuide.com’s mission is to help pet parents ensure their furry bestie has a great and healthy life, and our series of comprehensive and informative guides on health supplies will equip you to treat any issue that doesn’t require a visit to the vet – and even those that do, after a mandatory consult with your dog’s vet. It can be as easy as helping you choose the best e-collar or cone after you get your pet spayed, providing personal experiences of pet parents with certain supplements or medications, to reviewing the best dog relaxants that help anxious pooches find peace and calm. Whatever your dog needs to be healthy and happy, you’ll find it covered here.

WOW
Patrick
Patrick

More by Patrick

Save Big on Ark Naturals Kiss Me-ow Dental Chews and Lickables
Save Big on Ark Naturals Kiss Me-ow Dental Chews and Lickables
View Article
Next
Related articles
PetGuide’s Best New Dog Health Product of 2018: GlycoFlex Plus Chews

It’s PetGuide’s Inaugural Best Of Awards and we are so excited to share the best pet products we found in 2018. In the category of Best New Dog Health Product of 2018, the winner is VetriScience GlycoFlex Plus Chews. When we’re looking for the Best Of in everything pets, we’re looking for innovation in design and content, efficacy, ease-of use…all the things pet parents are looking for when it comes to caring for the health and happiness of their pets. To do so, I get to spend my days finding and writing about the most important things pet parents want to know, but also things I want to know for my own furry family members. Earlier this year at Global Pet Expo, I came across new chews from VetriScience. I talked with the amazing and knowledgeable team at VetriScience, sharing that our beloved Golden Retriever Dixie had an amputation last year, and I was always on the lookout for products that would help her. Related: 6 Frequently Asked Questions About Canine Osteoarthritis Enter GlycoFlex Chews. At the time, I picked up several samples of their new chew line and I was really excited about the GlycoFlex Plus chews as they were clinically proven to increase hind leg strength by nearly 41% in dogs after just four weeks of use. Because my Dixie was a trooper on one back hind leg, I wanted to do everything I could to keep that leg strong.

Best Dog Training Products

While you can train your dog without needing any specific product, the truth is that the right products can make the whole process so much easier and more effective. Whether you’re a seasoned dog owner with plenty of experience training their pets or a newbie first-time pawrent looking for some help training your dog, these dog training products will make sure the training process goes smoothly – and yields better results.

Product Review: The TugNTow Mushing Rig

Kevin Roberts couldn’t wait to hit the trail with the TugNTow Mushing Rig. And if you’re into bikejoring, this is one review you’ve got to read. Let me start off by telling you a little story: Back in the day, I was bikejoring down a trail with River-Dog and Old School, they were giving it everything they had. I was on my mountain bike, pedaling hard! We were flying! With the dogs in harness, attached to the bike by a line, we were a well-oiled machine! Up ahead, a moose stepped on the trail. If you know anything about moose, you know they don’t move unless they want to. And they hate dogs. Old School balked, the line dipped down from my handlebar and touched the wheel of my mountain bike. All it took was that one split second, and the line wrapped around and around the wheel. This suddenly stopped us dead, and that’s when physics became a problem. I kept moving. Without the bike. I was catapulted off the front of the bike. From my now upside-down view, I saw the bike flipping up, and slamming down on Old School, while River-Dog lunged at the moose. I was slammed to the ground, wind knocked out of me, and didn’t mush again until my broken collar bone mended. Long story short… when you run a dog on a bike, a slack line is dangerous! That’s why I was happy to test out the TugNTow. Put simply, the TugNTow is a retractable line that attaches to your bike, or scooter frame. It is designed to keep the line tight, and minimize flips and spills from a slack line. First Impressions

Cycle Safely With Your Dog Thanks To The Bike Tow Leash

Now that the nice weather is here, take your dog for a bike ride with this innovative leash We’re always on the lookout for products that make life with your dog much more enjoyable. And we think that the 1-Running-Dog Bike Tow Leash fits the bill. Perfect for cyclists who want to take their dogs on a safe bike ride, the Bike Tow Leash lets you explore the great outdoors and stay within leash laws. If you’ve ever tried riding a bike with a running dog beside you on a leash, you know how dangerous and awkward it can be. Stable and safe, the Bike Tow Leash cycling attachment ensures that your dog stays a safe distance away from moving wheels – even in the event that he’s distracted or makes a side pull or lunge. Instead of tipping in these events, the leash propels you in a forward motion, so there’s no danger of running over your dog or falling over. Plus, you save your hands and shoulders from the pain that harsh pulls and jerking brings.

SuperZoo 2018: Electric Ultrasound Toothbrush For Dogs Keeps Dentist A

Doggy dental health is important–more so than many pet parents even know. Here at SuperZoo, we’ve come across a company that has created an ultrasound toothbrush and toothpaste gel for your dog, and we have a feeling your pup is going to love them! SuperZoo is full of the coolest things, and all are purposed to make your pet’s (and your) life better. One such product we’ve found is the Mira-Pet System from Techmira. They originally used ultrasound technology to pioneer their Mira-Skin Starter Kit and the Mira-Teeth toothbrush for humans, and now they’re introducing the Mira-Pet System Ultrasound Toothbrush and Ultrasound Toothpaste gel for dogs. Related: Why Dental Health Is So Important For Dogs? The Mira-Pet system addresses an important health issue for your dogs–their teeth. Too often, we do all we can for our dogs’ health and comfort, but we lack in the teeth department. This can bring on infection and pain for our dogs, and the Mira-Pet toothbrush and toothpaste gives dogs a deep anti-bacterial cleaning. It also works to stimulate gum-health and that helps with inflammation in your dog’s mouth.

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.

Is Rock Salt Toxic to Dogs?

As winter comes, the roads become icy and treacherous and rock salt is used to make them less slippery. While roads covered with rock salt are common in the chillier months of the year, dog owners are wondering if it is safe for their pets to walk on rock salt or accidentally ingest it. After all, dogs are known to be inquisitive and eager to lick or nibble on anything and everything so the idea is not as far-fetched as some might think at first. So, without further ado, let’s find out if rock salt is toxic to dogs and how you can best protect your pet in the winter months.Is Rock Salt Toxic to Dogs?Sadly, the answer is yes – rock salt, commonly used for de-icing roads and sidewalks in winter, can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities. Rock salt, or sodium chloride, can cause salt poisoning or hypernatremia in dogs. Ingesting excessive amounts of salt can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, excessive thirst, increased urination, and in severe cases, it can even result in tremors, seizures, or death.And that is not all. In addition to the risk of ingestion, rock salt can also cause irritation to a dog's paws if they walk on treated surfaces. The salt can cause dryness, cracking, and discomfort, and dogs may try to  lick their paws to alleviate the irritation, leading to ingestion of the salt. After all, the roads are meant for cars and tires, so it was sadly never taken into account that pets would walk on them as well. Still, as a caring owner, there are a number of precautions that you can take in order to ensure that your dog doesn’t ingest rock salt – here are some of the most popular ways.Clean their paws after walks:Wipe your dog's paws with a damp cloth after walks to remove any salt or de-icing chemicals. Do this after every walk and as soon as you get home. Remember to take care of your pet’s paws and paw pads. When injured or unkempt, they can cause great discomfort. Furthermore, you can consider using  dog boots if your pet doesn’t mind it – they’ll keep their paws safe and warm.

When is the Best Time to Start Puppy Training?

Training your pet is a very important task as it will shape them into a friendly, obedient dog that’s a pleasure to be around. While it does require a lot of patience and effort, training your dog on time makes your life as an owner much easier and prevents a myriad of behavior issues and other problems down the road. Of course, it goes without saying that you should start training early, while your doggo is still a puppy. That is the time when they gladly soak up all the information and eagerly learn. But when exactly is the best time to start puppy training? You can’t do it while they are still teeny-tiny, nor should you wait too long. What is the ideal middle ground? Let’s find out.When is the Best Time to Start Puppy Training?Puppies are like sponges, soaking up information from their environment and their owner, so early training can set a solid foundation for good behavior and establish obedience throughout their lives. Ideally, you can start basic training such as housebreaking, socialization, and simple commands like "sit" and "stay" when your puppy is around 8 weeks old. This is the general “golden rule” that many owners stick by. When they reach that 2-month mark, it’s considered the ideal time for them to quickly grasp the commands you teach them. If you think that this could be “too early” to start training, you are wrong. There are numerous benefits to early training, and all of them are critical for your dog’s well-being and normal behavior. Here are just a few of them:SocializationEarly socialization is so important for puppies. It allows them to learn how to properly interact with other dogs and humans and prevents aggression and behavioral problems later in life. During this period you should expose your pet to new environments, sounds, and sights.BondingTraining sessions are a great way to strengthen the bond between you and your puppy. Spending time together, teaching them new things, and rewarding good behavior builds trust and a positive relationship.Preventing Behavioral IssuesIf you spot behavior issues while your dog is still a puppy, it is easier to prevent them from becoming nasty habits. As you teach your pet proper behavior and as you set up boundaries, you will prevent many nasty issues from forming, such as excess chewing, barking, or disobedience. If you already notice chewing issues that stem from teething, make sure to redirect their attention to an appropriate chew toy and use  puppy no-chew deterrent sprays to help you shift their focus.

Top 10 Dumbest Dog Breeds
Top 10 Dumbest Dog Breeds
View Gallery
An AI App Helps Vets Diagnose Cats By Detecting Their Pain Levels

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

Amazing Wiener Dog Gives Birth to a Record Breaking Puppy Litter

Puppy litters can certainly be large, but in the case of this brave Wiener dog mom, everyone was taken by surprise! This extraordinary female dachshund brought to the world a litter of no less than 11 puppies – there is definitely potential for a world record here. Winnie, a three-year-old female dachshund, was seemingly a normal pregnant dog, and nobody expected her litter to be this big. Normally, this breed of dog delivers between one and six puppies, but Winnie delivered nearly double that number in September.

Mind-Reading Pet Psychics Are a Burgeoning Business

Pet parents pay big bucks to communicate better with their best buddies.

With Just a Sniff, Dogs May be Able to Curtail PTSD Episodes

Halifax's Dalhousie University finds dogs can identify the adrenaline hormone through an individual's breath.

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

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

How Do I Teach My Cat to Play Fetch?

Unlike dogs, cats aren’t exactly known for their love of fetch. If you dream of tossing a toy with your furry best friend for hours, fear note – with a bit of time, patience, and positive reinforcement, you may just inspire a new love for the game in your kitty. This post will discuss why some cats take to fetch so naturally and how play can benefit your cat’s overall health and well-being. Plus, we’ll share how to teach your cat to play fetch step-by-step with tips for success! So, grab your cat’s favorite toy and get ready for a fun game of fetch…Why Do Cats Love Playing Fetch? There are many theories about why cats enjoy this game. The most accepted theory is that the action triggers natural hunting instincts. When an object is thrown, it mimics their prey moving across the room. The cat then chases the toy, stalking and hunting it. Retrieving the toy and bringing it back to you is similar to cats bringing their freshly killed prey to their owners as a gift. Other experts see the game of fetch as an attempt to spend quality time playing together, bonding like we do with our dogs. However, no research confirms either theory. What Toy Do Cats Love Most? Finding the best toy for your fetch-loving cat can be a fun process. Why? There is no “one-size-fits-all” solution. Instead, you’ll have to set aside time to play and test which toys your cat connects with most. Think of it as a fun game of trial and error. We have two cats at home, one of whom is absolutely in love with playing fetch. Pippen, our Maine Coon mix, will bring toys to us randomly throughout the day. She drops them at our feet and meows loudly while pawing at our pant legs, begging us to throw whatever she has brought us. Here are a few of her favorite toys to play fetch with: SmartyKat Skitter Critters Catnip Cat Toys: These little mice are not only the perfect size and weight for cats to carry around, but the fact they include catnip makes them even more enticing. If the theory about hunting is correct, they are a great example of mock prey. Catit Eco Cat Toy: Another prey-like toy, this is arguably the top choice in our house. Pippen loves anything with feathers. If you have a tiny kitten, this is a little harder to carry, but Pippen is relatively small, and she has never had a problem. Andiker Cat Crinkle Balls: This is another one I have heard other cat parents raving about. The balls make a fun crinkling sound while the foil-like mylar material reflects the light, making them a fun visual spectacle to hunt down. SPOT Colorful Springs: These toys may not seem special, but the spring design causes them to bounce around the room unpredictably. This keeps your cat on their toes as they hunt them down with each throw. Cat Tube Spring Toys: These toys are made of lightweight mesh material, making them easy to carry around. If you fold them or push down the ends, then let go, they fly through the air. The goal is to find something your cat loves, wants to retrieve, and can comfortably carry back to you to continue the game. Is It Normal for a Cat to Never Play? While you can expect a range of playfulness from cats, with some cats being very playful and others only playing occasionally when they “feel like it,” it’s not normal for a cat to never play at all. A healthy adult cat should get at least 30 to 60 minutes of playtime daily. This can be in one large play session or, ideally, split into shorter play sessions of 10 to 15 minutes. If you have a cat who appears lazy or unmotivated, you should prioritize turning this around and encouraging them to play more. Otherwise, they will be at a higher risk of potential health complications, including obesity, diabetes, urinary tract diseases, arthritis and other joint-related issues, and fatty liver disease.

Dog Rescued After Surviving a 60-foot Fall from Michigan Cliff

A family’s trip to one of Michigan’s most beautiful landmarks almost ended tragically, when their dog took a tumble from a cliff. The adventurous dog, named Dancer, was rescued after surviving a 60-foot fall from a cliff and spending a freezing night alone in the wilderness. The three-year-old pooch had escaped her leash and plunged off a steep cliff near Miners Castle, in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore area in Munising, Michigan. The lakeshore runs alongside Lake Superior and is located in Michigan’s Upper Penninsula. The National Park Service (NPS) shared in a news release that Dancer fell 60 feet off a cliff to a ledge below. The dog’s owners spent hours searching the area but were unable to find the dog and were convinced that she didn’t survive the fall. Rangers at the nearby Pictured Rocks Park received a message about the lost pooch and decided to enlist the help of Superior High Angle Rescue Professionals (SHARP), a local rope rescue team, to search for the dog. The following morning SHARP members Erik Olsen, Westley Shaffer, and Tyler Davis went to the area and were able to find Dancer, who was cold, but alive. “Though she has spent the night trying to keep warm, she was excited to see the rescuers,” the service wrote. Dancer, who was described as a “professional troublemaker” didn’t have any reported injuries. The lucky pooch has since been reunited with her family and is recovering well after spending the night alone in the wilderness. The park service noted that Dancer was extremely lucky and although her story has a happy ending, her fall should serve as a reminder to everyone that areas of Pictured Rocks can get very cold and extremely slippery.“With this year’s mild start to winter, many areas of Pictured Rocks are more accessible than they are most years,” Chief Ranger Joe Hughes explained. “It is still important to remember to be prepared for slippery, cold conditions that can change quickly.”Whether you’re planning to hit a local trail with your pooch or are planning a trip to a state park, keep your pooch on a leash. Make sure that your pup’s harness is fitted properly so that your pooch can’t wiggle out of it, even if it tries. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

New Survey Ranks America's Top Dog Breeds by State

There’s no doubt about it - Americans love their dogs! We know that your pooch is the best breed, but have you wondered which are the most favored dog breeds in America? Forbes surveyed 10,000 dog owners across the 50 states to find America’s top dog breed. The survey involved the top 25 most popular dog breeds nationwide, according to the American Kennel Club. So, what is America’s top dog? As it turns out, “no breed in particular” is the country’s favorite at 13%.However, if Americans had to decide, they’d pick the Australian shepherd as a favorite, followed by the German shepherd and the bulldog.The highly intelligent and energetic Australian shepherd was ranked as the top dog breed in 10 states, including Alabama, Arizona, Alaska, Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Montana, Missouri, New York, and Virginia. This breed was also voted the second favorite in nine states. Although Aussies won the popularity vote, the German shepherd was the number one pick in 16 states. That’s more than any other breed!Known for its loyal and courageous nature, the German shepherd is the most common breed to serve as a police K9 but also makes a wonderful family companion. They ranked as the second favorite dog breed in nine states. Interestingly, more men than women picked German shepherds as their favorite breed (9% compared to 6%). America’s 3rd favorite breed, according to Forbes, is the bulldog. The English bulldog is a medium-sized dog breed, best known for its stocky build, large head, and wrinkled face. The bulldog ranked as the top dog in eight states, including Illinois, Connecticut, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, West Virginia, and Utah. Among all states, Nebraska ranked the bulldog lowest, placing this breed at 24th place, The lovable and friendly Labrador retriever ranked as the nation’s 4th favorite breed. Thanks to their affectionate, friendly, and energetic nature, Labs make great companions to people of all ages and families with children. Labrador retrievers ranked as the most favorite dog breed in 10 states, including Louisiana, Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, Massachusetts, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Oregon, South Dakota, and West Virginia. Bernese mountain dog is the 5th favorite dog breed in the United States. Large in size and built for hard work, Bernese mountain dogs are easy to train and make affectionate, loyal, and faithful companions. So, it’s no surprise that this doggo ranked as the most favorite breed in nine states. Compared to four other top-ranked breeds, the Bernese mountain dog had the most varying results, with 10 states ranking this breed in the bottom 10.The beagle is the nation’s favorite small breed. Ranked as the 6th favorite breed overall, the beagle was placed in the top 10 favorite breeds in all but seven states. This breed received the lowest ranking in Utah, where it was voted as the state’s 3rd least favorite breed.The golden retriever comes in at 7th place, after being voted as the most favorite dog breed in Michigan and Wisconsin. Medium in size and best known for their gorgeous golden coats, golden retrievers are loving, loyal, and affectionate companions to active people and families with children. Goldens were the 2nd favorite dog breed in four states, including New Hampshire, North Dakota, Connecticut, and Vermont. This breed ranked the lowest in Alabama, where it received 17th place.These are America’s most favorite dog breeds, but the nation also has the least favorite doggo. This title goes to the Havanese, which was the bottom-ranked breed in 33 states.The Havanese is followed by Pembroke Welsh Corgi which was the least favorite dog breed in 17 states. And what about you? What’s your favorite and least favorite dog breed?Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

According to ASPCA, These Are The Top 10 Pet Toxins of 2023

No matter how careful you are, accidents happen – this is particularly true when it comes to pet  poisoning cases. Not only that cats and dogs have some uncanny ability to get into stuff that they’re not supposed to get into, but you also can’t always know what things could be a potential toxin to them. And believe us when we say, there are a lot of potential pet toxins in an average household!The annual report by the  ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC)  only goes to prove this. Each year, they examine all the compiled data to determine which are the most commonly encountered pet toxins each year. It helps keep owners aware of the threats, and to keep vets always one step ahead. In 2023, the APCC was extra busy, having received hundreds of thousands of calls about items and substances that pets were exposed to. Incredibly, these substances totaled over 351,000!Even though they were contacted about such an imposing number of potentially hazardous substances, they managed to narrow down the most common culprits and compile the list of top 10 pet toxins in 2023, which will serve as a great reminder of what to look out for.Over-the-counter medications, including cold and flu medicines, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and vitamins and supplements. With 16.8% exposure, these medications are the number one threat in 2023. Almost every home has some sort of medications stored, and they aren’t always expertly hidden. Accidentally, pets can discover them and suffer many dire consequences if they ingest them. Human food and drink are almost equally as dangerous, with 16.2% reported calls. A lot of what we consume daily is toxic to pets. This can range from common items such as raisins, onions, garlic, grapes, or sweets, to more rare items such as protein drinks and bars, xylitol gums, and energy drinks. If your pet gets their paws on any of these, it can end up in an emergency vet visit. Prescription medications for humans are very dangerous to pets, and many reports were made in regard to inhalers, ADHD medications, heart medications, and similar. Prescription medications are often strong drugs and definitely not meant for pets.Chocolate is the number 4 threat for 2023. A staggering 13% of calls were related to this sweet. Dogs are mostly found consuming it as cats do not have sweet taste buds or the appetite of dogs. Still, chocolate is not meant for pets and can cause many side effects.Veterinary products are at number 5 with 8.3% reported exposures. Callers reported ingestion of chewable tablets or soft chews, many of them used for calming pets. Owners are urged to keep medicines locked away, as pets can like their sweet taste and go after them when you are not looking. Plants and fungi accounted for 8.1% of exposures. Dogs are inquisitive and can find these plants on their outdoor adventures. But many plants can cause a threat to dogs, so make sure to acquaint yourself with a list of toxic plants to look out for.Household products are also on this list, with 7.1% of exposures reported. Pets consumed various dangerous items, such as deoxidizer packets, batteries, and various miscellanea lying around the house. Be aware of what’s lying around that’s easy to reach.Rodenticides are a major threat to pets. People can use poisons to get rid of pests, but our pets don’t know that. If they ingest them, it can be extremely dangerous, leading to kidney failure, bleeding, and even death. When you are out on walks, always be careful what is lying around. Insecticides are almost the same. People use bug sprays, ant baits, and poisonous powders all over the place. Always make sure that the area you are in is free from anything that can be a threat to your pet. Recreational drugs are last but not least. With substances such as marijuana becoming increasingly legal, pets can come in contact with them as well. But there are also hallucinogenic substances such as mushrooms, especially psilocybin, and muscarine, which can be very harmful to pets. 

About Privacy Terms Contact us Copyright
© 2024  VerticalScope Inc. All rights reserved.