Brother One-Ups His Twin’s Baby Photo With His Kitty Interpretations

2022 is Going to Be Hot, Thanks to Australian Firefighters Calendar

Coming just in time for the holidays is a calendar full of the most adorable puppies you’ve ever seen. Oh, and the HOT Australian firefighters cuddling them don’t hurt the calendar’s ‘best gift this season’ potential either!Hot Firefighters Holding Adorable Dogs Never Go Out Of Style!The internationally-acclaimed Australian Firefighters Calendar is out again and we’ve gotta tell you, the pups they’re holding are nothing short of adorable perfection.

Ask the Animal Communicator - Family Friction

Dear Shannon, We’ve always been a “one dog” family. But recently our youngest child left for college. Both of us work outside the home. And so our nine-year-old Corgi, Howie, is left at home alone all day. We were worried he would get too lonely so we decided to get him a second dog for a friend. Howie and Victor, our new six-year-old dog (the rescue staff thinks he is mix of Terrier and Chihuahua) seemed to like each other just fine when we introduced them at the shelter. Now that they are home together….well, not so much. Sometimes they play but we have to watch them constantly to be sure Howie doesn’t get too aggressive – he even bit Victor once when I wasn’t watching them. I don’t think they like each other and I don’t know what to do. I’m afraid we’re going to have to take Victor back to the shelter. Help! Signed, Pea, Victor and unhappy Howie Dear Pea, Oh boy. Yup. I can see why you’ve been so worried. Your heart for Howie and Victor shines through and it is so clear to me you want to do the right thing by both of your fur boys. So let’s get to it and see what we can do to ease the stress between Howie and Victor, ok? The first thing to know is that both Howie and Victor are definitely using their behavior to communicate with each other and with you. In a weird way (if we can set aside species differences for a moment) what you are experiencing right now in your family isn’t so unlike how two human family members might argue and fight for any number of reasons. Here, what we need to do first is find out why. Get to the root of what Howie and Victor are arguing about. And then have an open and honest conversation about how to fix it. Luckily, as an animal communicator, this is exactly what I do. Just a little context – I’m not a pet trainer, not an animal behaviorist – rather, I use a different set of language skills to communicate with all species. In this case, it means I can talk to pets using all of my senses and receive their replies in the same way. I decided to tune in with Howie first, since he is the senior of the two in every way. The moment I connected with Howie, what I felt was extreme anxiety. Like – serious stress. I asked Howie what is causing him so much anxiety and I heard the words “Not enough.” I wanted to make sure I was understanding Howie’s concern, so I asked him, “Are you anxious because you think Pea isn’t happy with just you for a pet dog?” The next thing I felt was a flood of sadness. And an inner “click” in my gut that I’ve come to understand as an intuitive yes. I also asked Howie how he feels about Victor. I got back the emotional equivalent of a shoulder shrug – essentially, a neutral feeling. Next, I tuned in with Victor. I asked Victor if he knew why Howie was behaving aggressively towards him. I got a wave of sadness and the words “nobody likes me” set to the tune of the children’s song “Nobody likes me, everybody hates me, I think I’ll go eat worms.” Then I got a picture of the sad and perpetually pessimistic Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh. What this shows me is that we’ve basically got a family-wide misunderstanding going on. Howie thinks he isn’t enough dog for you. You are worried you aren’t enough family for Howie. Victor thinks he isn't enough, period. AND you are worried Howie and Victor don’t like each other. Can you see how all of you are basically worried about the same exact thing? The good news is, now that we know what the problem is, we can move on to the next step – resolving the conflict for everyone. I started this process by reconnecting with Howie to explain that you got Victor for HIM, because you were worried you weren’t giving him enough attention during the day and he would be lonely. It took a minute for the message to sink in, but the next emotion I felt coming from Howie was another flood, this time one of relief. A letting go of long-held deep fear and heartache. And the image of a sun rising over a new day paired with a trio of very strong feelings: relief, love and hope. I asked Howie if he might like to play with Victor and hang out together while you and your partner are gone during the day at work. I sent Howie an image of he and Victor playing together at tug-of-war, chasing balls and playing with other fun dog toys. I asked him, “Do you think Victor could be a fun new friend?” The response I got from Howie was one of curiosity and interest! This is a very good sign. I then went through the exact same sequence with Victor. When I showed Victor the image of him and Howie playing together, the emotion Victor sent back to me was of so much gratitude – like I want to type GRATITUDE because it was so strong. Victor just wants to have a forever family. He really wants to stay with you and Howie. Pea, I truly hope this helps. I would watch for a positive shift in Howie and Victor’s interactions starting now. I know it can seem like such a drastic situation when two pets can’t get along. But often we just need to sit down and have a chat. And thankfully animal communication is the perfect choice to help with that! So thank you for allowing me to be a part of that process for you. Please do keep me posted and let me know how it goes with you and Howie and Victor. From my heart,Shannon

Why Dr. Marty Nature's Blend Might Be Right For Your Dog

What Is Nature’s Blend?With so many dog food options on the market these days, it can be hard to know which one is right for your canine companion. Nature’s Blend is a dog food that stands out from the pack due to its high quality formula and the unique way it is made. In this Dr Marty: Nature’s Blend article, we’ll take a close look at one of the most popular freeze-dried pet foods available on the market.What Makes Nature’s Blend Stand Out From Other Dog Foods? Nature’s Blend is a premium dog food that contains real cuts of raw turkey, ranch-raised beef, salmon, duck, fruits, vegetables, and seeds to help deliver a rainbow of nutrition to your canine. Dr. Marty’s team receives all of these raw ingredients fresh, and then gently freeze-dries them to create delicious food that’s bursting with flavor. This cutting edge formula contains natural ingredients and is free from artificial dyes, artificial flavors, artificial preservatives, and grains. What Are The Potential Health Benefits Of Using Nature’s BlendFeeding your dog Nature’s Blend is as convenient as kibble – but the nutritional quality is worlds apart. Nature’s Blend is designed to mirror what your dog might eat in the wild. It contains a variety of fresh protein sources and plenty of real fruits, vegetables, and seeds. While many dry dog food companies overcook their food and strip out essential vitamins and minerals, this food is gently freeze-dried. The result is a delicious food that maintains its content of amino acids, enzymes, fats, and other nutrients. When your dog eats a high quality food like this, you may notice more defined muscle tone, a shiny coat, calm skin, and more compact stool.*1-3*All dogs are unique. Your dog’s results can and will vary.What Are The Ingredients In Dr. Marty's Dog Food?Here’s the list of ingredients contained in Nature’s Blend: Turkey, Beef, Salmon, Duck, Beef Liver, Turkey Liver, Turkey Heart, Flaxseed, Sweet Potato, Egg, Pea Flour, Apple, Blueberry, Carrot, Cranberry, Pumpkin Seed, Spinach, Dried Kelp, Ginger, Salt, Sunflower Seed, Broccoli, Kale, and Mixed Tocopherols (natural preservative)Frequently Asked Questions

Rocki Robot Review

Before we get into the Rocki review, let’s take a look at the specifications and what you actually get with your purchase.Specs:· Weight: 3.3 lbs· Dimensions: 7.28x8.07x7.28 inches· Wireless Connection: Bluetooth ver 4.1· Battery Type: Li-Polymer 7.4V 2600mAh· Working Time: Continuous Play Time: 5 hours; Waiting Time: 5 days· Input Power: DC 5V USBWhat it offers:· Real-time HD video and audio and recording· Speak and Audio· Treat tosser· All-wheel drive and 360 degree all directional movement· Long standby and operational time· Multiple toy mounts and laser toyWhat you get in the box:· Robot· Data line· Feather attachment· Laser attachment· User ManualSet Up:Before you can play with Rocki, you need to set him up on your cell phone. And the process is easy. First, you install the app by scanning the QR code found in the user guide. Next, you sign up by creating an account that includes your email address, then confirming registration. When you turn Rocki on, you’ll have to make sure the Bluetooth on your device is on. Rocki will let you know that you’re on track by saying “Starting” – after that, you press the Pair button on the app and connect to WiFI. Before you start, load the snack feeder by holding the two buttons on the side of Rocki. When you’re finished, simply close it by locking the two buttons. Now, it’s time to introduce Rocki to your pet.

Top 10 Best Rabbits for 4H

Participating in 4-H clubs and programs can be an experience that will be cherished for life – especially when a child gains a pet best friend thanks to it. One of many programs that 4-H has is the so-called rabbit project, which is supposed to provide experience with “the selection, feeding, husbandry, and exhibiting of rabbits” to young people. There are various rabbit projects within the 4-H, including breeding, pet, and market projects, but we’ll focus on the best rabbits for 4-H programs that are meant for raising pet rabbits.While bunnies might seem like an easy animal to care for, that might be misleading – rabbits require care, love, and attention as much as any other pet. Even within 4-H guidelines, it is emphasized that the bunnies that are raised for the project should be well taken care of, or the so-called five freedoms rule: freedom from hunger and thirst, from discomfort, from pain, injury or disease, from fear and distress, and freedom to express normal behavior. With that being said, the 4-H rabbit program can be an excellent way to introduce your kid to the responsibility of taking care of a pet. What starts off as a project, can become a beautiful friendship – but only if your child is serious about keeping the rabbit and providing them appropriate care. When it comes to the choice of rabbit breed for 4-H projects, any of the 50 rabbit breeds officially recognized by ARBA are accepted. Here is our choice of the 10 best rabbits for 4-H in terms of ease of care, personality, and showmanship potential.Top 10 Best Rabbits for 4H

Pet Hoarding: What is It and What Causes It?

If you’ve ever watched an episode of A&E’s “Hoarders” you already know that this self-destructive type of behavior is typically triggered by a past traumatic experience with the individual feeling the accumulation of possessions can fill a void. It doesn’t, but it does lead to their financial, mental and physical health being left in tatters. Add animals into this equation, and you have an entirely new level of tragedy that’s not going unnoticed in North America. In fact, this unique manifestation of compulsive animal hoarding (also known as Noah Syndrome) is being studied on various levels including sociological, psychological and veterinary. So, what exactly is animal hoarding? According to the Cumming’s School of Veterinary Medicine’s “Hoarding of Animals Research Consortium” (HARC), this type of behavior is identified as the accumulation of animals beyond an individual’s ability to provide minimal standards of care (this last part is important and you’ll read why later). Further, the individual fails to recognize or act on the poor condition of the animals (including disease, starvation and even death) or the resultant health concerns to themselves and other members of the household. Now, when we say this type of hoarding is still being studied it’s because research groups have not been able to assign it to any one psychiatric disorder. Some feel it can be better understood if looked at from an addictions-based model because of the denial, justification and sense of persecution. Other researchers consider it to be an inability to establish human relationships and the need for the unconditional love that only animals can bring. And still, others suggest it’s down to an obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) where the individual feels compelled to collect and “protect” animals. At the end of the day, this type of hoarding can be one or any combination of these conditions with the challenge being that in order to stop the behavior, it needs to be diagnosed and treated. Simply removing the animals doesn’t solve the problem because according to Dr. Elizabeth Berliner, Director of Shelter Medicine at Cornell’s College of Veterinary Medicine, the relapse rate for animal hoarders is almost 100 percent. So, what’s the difference between a hoarder and a Good Samaritan who simply takes in stray animals? It’s actually down to care versus numbers. Back in 2003, a Nova Scotian woman passed away, leaving 100 cats that she had accumulated over the years. Her veterinarian confirmed all were spayed, neutered, vaccinated, well-fed and flea-free. Even the local animal shelter described them as beautiful, friendly animals which resulted in a national campaign to find homes for these much-loved pets. The word “hoarding” was never used to describe the situation but was instead replaced with “Good Samaritan” given the excellent condition of the animals. In this instance, having the psychological capacity to recognize and respond to the animals’ physical needs won out. With between 3,000 and 5,000 new cases of animal hoarding happening each year in North America (affecting up to 250,000 animals), the best thing you can do for pets in distress is to recognize and report the signs – whether it’s a friend, family member or neighbor. As shared by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), they include watching for: An inability or reluctance to identify the number of animals in their care.A home that shows deterioration including dirty or broken windows and extreme clutter.A strong smell of ammonia coming from the home.Visible animals that are emaciated, lethargic, and not well socialized.An individual who is isolated from the community and neglects their personal hygiene/care.An individual who insists their pets are happy and healthy despite obvious signs of distress and illness. It may be a difficult call to make, but it can be the difference between an animal existing in sub-standard conditions and finding a loving home that can meet its health and emotional needs.

How to Keep Your Indoor Cat Fit and Healthy

Even when they are not “couch potatoes”, indoor cats are still not nearly as active as cats who live outdoors – they don’t hunt, they exercise far less, and they don’t roam large areas on a daily basis. Due to less strenuous physical activity, indoor cats can be more prone to weight gain, which is why you should carefully consider their daily diet to ensure that they stay healthy in your care.What Type of Diet is Best for Indoor Cats?

10 Best Rabbits for Kids

Kids grow up so fast – before you know it, they are asking for a pet, and you might be considering that they are grown enough to accept the responsibilities that come with having a pet, in addition to cuddles and playing. A dog or a cat might seem like too much of a responsibility, or you might not be able to adopt one where you live, so you might be considering a rabbit as a first pet for your child instead. Luckily, rabbits make wonderful pets for kids, and some breeds are particularly suited for the role of a child’s companion. Gentle, affectionate, playful, and friendly, these rabbit breeds make the perfect pets for kids!

Is a Potential Dog-Allergy Vaccine on the Horizon?

For those who suffer from fits of sneezing, itchy eyes and that non-stop runny nose whenever they come into contact with a dog, relief may be just around the corner. If you’re prepared to sit, stay, and be patient. You see, researchers at Japan’s Osaka Prefecture University (OPU) have spent years exploring the seven main allergens known to provoke these types of over-the-top physical reactions to our canine buddies. And they’ve been able to zero in on the one key molecular structure that is responsible for the majority (50-75%) of unusually strong reactions to the real-time or recent presence of a dog. And you may be surprised to learn that it has nothing to do with fur and shedding – it’s found in the dog’s tongue tissue, salivary glands, and skin. Why does any of this matter? Because these good folk in Japan are working on a hypoallergenic vaccine for humans. Their findings – published in the Federation of European Biochemical Societies Journal in Fall 2021– show hope that this unique research will one day be able to cure people of their dog allergies by artificially inducing immune tolerance. Now, don’t stock up on the dog treats just yet because we’re talking important yet preliminary findings. Researchers are still trying to identify what’s called “epitopes” for this specific molecule. The epitope is what your immune system uses to recognize and determine the type of response you’re going to have when confronted with dog-related allergens. In other words, it decides if “all’s good” or you’re in for a “sneeze-fest” after patting Rover. According to Allergy Research Specialist at OPU and the lead author on this study, Takashi Inui, “We want to be able to present small doses of these epitopes to the immune system to train it to deal with them, similar to the principle behind any vaccine.” That makes sense and sounds fairly straightforward, right? But how tricky will it be to identify this all-important epitope? Without overwhelming you with lots of tech-talk… epitopes bind to the surface of your immune system’s antibodies similar to the way one specific jigsaw puzzle piece will fit with another. In the case of this “world’s first ever” dog allergy vaccine, researchers already know the pieces are out there – it’s all down to finding and then marrying them up. And identifying that single, all-important molecule that provokes a negative response was a key first step in solving this proverbial puzzle. But this research doesn’t just target dog allergies. Extensive effort has been made over the years toward developing a range of epitope-focused vaccines. Primarily because of the potential to apply this science toward a wide range of human-related maladies including seasonal allergies. For many, the creation of a hypoallergenic vaccine will mean being able to own a dog, visit friends and family who own pets, travel in vehicles where a dog has ridden…. you get the picture. It opens up a world of freedoms and social opportunities that once upon a time would have been unthinkable for those dealing with pet allergies. And just think of the money saved by not having to stock up on Kleenex?

Adoptable Dog of the Week - Dean

Energetic, lively, and always ready for an adventure, this pooch could be a perfect companion for active owners! Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Dean, a year and a half old Labrador Retriever and unknown Hound mix from Newark, Delaware. He is neutered, microchipped, and up to date on his vaccinations. Dean gets along with other dogs, especially if they share his personality and energy, but hasn’t been tested around cats. Due to his energy levels, it’s best if he goes to a home without small kids in the family. Dean’s TaleSweet, fun to be around, and outgoing, Dean is a perfect match for families that have an active lifestyle. He has plenty of energy and will need daily walks and active playtime to burn it off – which makes him perfect for people that are looking for a companion for their adventures. Or, if you need a bit of a nudge toward a healthier lifestyle and want to get moving, Dean can be a perfect buddy for those long walks. He has a playful personality and is very sociable, so visits to the dog park are also a great idea – he’ll be the star of the park.Dean gets along with other dogs and would love a canine companion that could match his energy and want to be his playmate. He hasn’t been tested around cats, though, so there’s no saying how he’d act around felines. Due to his size (Dean weighs 50 lbs) and energy levels, he needs a family without any small children he could inadvertently knock down while playing. A family with older kids (teenagers) or an adult-only home would be a much better fit.If you are curious to learn more about Dean, contact Delaware SPCA to get more information about him and the adoption process.

GI Stasis In Rabbits: Symptoms, Causes, and How To Prevent It

Even though they are beloved as family pets all across the world, rabbits will undoubtedly present a few challenges for all owners – just like all pets do. And when these challenges present themselves, you need to be ready and well-informed, in order to tackle them quickly and efficiently. One of these challenges that your rabbit can potentially come across in their life is GI stasis, better known as gastrointestinal stasis. Somewhat common in rabbits, and potentially quite dangerous, GI stasis occurs when the digestive system slows down or stops completely. When this happens, bacteria and gasses are released and cause bloating. If left untreated, this condition can quickly deteriorate your rabbit’s health, causing them to starve and dehydrate, and potentially lead to their death. Needless to say, it’s a condition that should be taken seriously – from keeping an eye out for symptoms to taking all necessary steps to prevent it.Symptoms of GI Stasis in RabbitsAs a bunny owner, you will have to know exactly what to look for as clear indications of GI stasis. One of the common indicators is the loss of appetite. This can appear all of a sudden, or gradually over a period of time. Eventually, you might even notice the complete lack of poop or some sort of abnormality of the same – such as soft stool or diarrhea instead of round pellets. Still, the most obvious symptom is the complete lack of movements from your bunny: this is the lethargy that occurs because of starvation and dehydration which are a direct result of gastrointestinal stasis. It can also instigate teeth grinding, a sign that your rabbit is in pain and discomfort.What Causes GI Stasis?Rabbits are gentle beings, and their delicate nature might require some special care on a day-to-day basis. Neglect some of the crucial parts, and your bunny might become ill. A common cause of GI Stasis is a bad diet. If it contains too many carbohydrates (carbs for short), or too few digestible fibers, the condition can begin to form. This diet is formed when a bunny eats way too many commercial pellets – which are full of carbs – and too little hay, which is the main source of fiber for rabbits. A diet optimally rich in fiber should mean that at least 70% of what your bunny consumes in a day is hay.Other causes of GI stasis are painful conditions that affect the teeth, such as malocclusion, and in turn, prevent the rabbit from eating properly. With the loss of appetite, the digestive system slows down. General loss of appetite is another cause, and it can occur when the rabbit is too stressed, scared, overheated, in pain, dehydrated, and so on. How You Can Prevent GI Stasis in RabbitsIn order to prevent GI stasis in your pet rabbit, the foremost thing to do is balance their diet. It should contain plenty of high-fiber grass hay and some moisture-rich leafy greens. Supplement this with carbs-rich pellets, but only in small amounts. This will keep their gut flora in check and keep their digestive system in top form.Furthermore, make sure that your rabbit is not stressed in any way, whether it’s due to environmental or social and emotional causes. Keep your bunny healthy and happy by catering to their needs to avoid lethargy and loss of appetite, and you can be sure that gastrointestinal stasis won’t affect them.

More Than 100 Ukraine Shelter Dogs Turned Away at the Poland Border

Many of us have seen the moving pictures of Ukrainians fleeing the country, carrying their beloved pets with them. But, for the shelter animals in the country, the situation is bleak. A group of rescue workers near Kyiv were killed while trying to deliver food and supplies to animals in need. In the hardest hit areas, this leaves rescue animals clinging to life without any food or water. In Borodyanka, Ukraine, Russian soldiers kept volunteers from returning to a shelter housing 485 dogs from late February until the beginning of April. When they returned, they found that only 150 of the dogs had survived, many of which were in critical condition. For the survivors, this is only the start of another battle as border officials prevent them from crossing into Poland where they can access much-needed veterinary care.“On my second trip to Ukraine in early April, we were doing work at the border and were seeing large numbers of dogs being turned away,” Naturewatch Foundation’s Campaign Manager Kate Parker told Newsweek. “We asked why and we were told that the current regulation state that to get into Poland, animals are expected to have a pet passport, rabies vaccinations and evidence of those, but of course, having been rescued from a war zone, these shelter dogs do not have those.”Reports reveal that even dogs whose owners have been killed defending their country are being turned away as they would be crossing without an order. These dogs have been orphaned as a result of the fighting and are now being let down further as they are denied the opportunity to be placed with a new family. The Borodyanka dogs are currently being housed in a temporary holding facility in Lviv, near the border to Poland. Volunteers from Poland go there as needed to provide the dogs with their basic care needs when possible. These dogs have been traumatized and endured weeks of starvation, leaving them in poor health on many levels. The holding facility is a short-term or band-aid solution, but not one that is going to provide the level of care needed for these dogs over an extended period of time. With the assistance of evacuating Ukrainians, a total of 16 of the dogs have now made it over the border into Poland where they are immediately cared for by a Polish vet. But the rest remain in Ukraine, many in critical condition. Many advocates working in the area are calling for the use of holding facilities at the borders where shelter dogs can be brought over the border and provided with veterinary care while undergoing a quarantine period to accommodate for their lack of documentation. “We’re not calling for a mass evacuation of all animals from Ukraine, butt he welfare of shelter dogs is being compromised by staying there,” Parker explained. “Being held in a temporary shelter is OK temporarily, but it’s not good for the animals’ long-term welfare. I would like to see the Borodyanka dogs allowed over so they can get the care they desperately need.”

Should You Train Your Cat to Use the Toilet?

Sure, you can find videos of cats jumping onto a toilet, doing their business, and even flushing when they’re done, but is it a good idea to train your kitty to do this? Here are a few things to consider so you can decide what’s right for you and your pet.It Isn’t in Line with Your Cat’s Natural BehaviorsCats prefer being able to dig before they go to the bathroom, and then covering up their urine or feces when they’re done. They simply can’t do that when they’re using a toilet. In fact, if you watch videos of cats using toilets, you may see that they try to cover up what they just did by wiping the toilet seat. In addition to that, a cat has to balance carefully on a toilet in order to use it, and this may be awkward or uncomfortable. On the other hand, when they use a litter box, they can find a comfortable position that is, again, more natural for them. Plus, they don’t need to worry about losing their balance and falling into a toilet full of water and waste when they’re using a regular litter box. Because cats who use toilets can’t do what’s most natural, they might experience stress, and that might ultimately cause them to avoid the toilet and eliminate in other areas of your home. You May Miss Signs of Health ConcernsEvery time you scoop your cat’s litter, you can look for signs that something might be wrong. For instance, you might notice that there is a lot more or a lot less urine than usual. Or, you might realize that your cat had loose stools or smaller stools than normal. But when your kitty uses a toilet, you could miss symptoms that might indicate your pet has a health concern that needs to be addressed by a veterinarian. Even though cleaning the litter can be an annoying chore, it is an opportunity to keep an eye on how your pet is doing. There are many conditions that could impact how often your cat eliminates, as well as how much waste is produced. Using a box can make it a lot easier to keep track of things. Jumping and Balancing Might Be Hard, Especially for Older CatsFinally, as mentioned above, balancing on a toilet seat can be tough for a kitty, even if they’re young and strong. It can be even more challenging for a cat who’s older or has mobility issues or injuries. Your pet might get to the point that they simply can’t use the toilet anymore, resulting in them eliminating elsewhere. It’s ultimately up to you, the pet parent, to decide if you want to toilet train your cat, but be sure to weigh all of the pros and cons to make a choice that’s best for you and your kitty. And, remember, when in doubt, you could always ask a vet for guidance.

Top 10 Best Breeds to Take RV’ing

However, none of the above means that all dogs are suited to RV travel. And the difference between camping and RVing is that while one centers around a few hours of travel followed by several nights at a site, the other is long-haul travel with few breaks and in relatively confined quarters.While any breed can be packed up and taken “on the road”, not all enjoy the process nor are they physically suited for this style of travel. Which leads to this. Before you invest in that great big motorhome, you may want to consider whether it’s the right fit for your four-legged family member/s. Conversely, if the open road is calling and you’re thinking the only thing that could make it perfect would be a pooch riding shotgun (true, by the way), then check out our list below. Because if you want to know which breeds do the RV thing best, we’ve come up with a shortlist of the top 10 (in no particular order).

3 Common Cat Training Mistakes

Whether you want to stop your kitty from jumping on the kitchen counter or you want to train her to do tricks, the first thing to bear in mind is that training is a process that takes time. Avoiding some common cat training mistakes may help ensure your feline friend learns more quickly and easily. Here’s a list of some of the mistakes that pet parents make when training kittens and adult cats. Reacting Only to Negative BehaviorsIt’s understandable that, before your cat learns the rules, she’ll do things that you don’t want her to do, like claw at your carpet or jump on furniture she shouldn’t be on. But if you react too strongly to unwanted behaviors, you might actually end up slowing the training process, and your cat might even start to use negative behaviors as a way to get your attention. Instead, reinforce good behavior by praising your kitty and maybe even giving her a treat when you see her doing things like using the scratching post instead of your carpet. And if your pet does something you don’t want, stop yourself from reacting by shouting or being aggressive towards her. Rather, gently show her the desirable behavior and then give her a reward when she follows the rule. Using the Wrong Products and Methods Sure, there are cat training products on the market, but they aren’t always a good idea. Sometimes, all you need is something simple, such as double-sided tape that can teach a cat to stay off certain furniture. Remember, cats don’t respond well to negative training attempts. So, again, avoid yelling at your pet and definitely don’t hit her. These actions will only instill fear in your companion. And what about tactics like using a spray bottle? Well, they’ll probably scare your cat and likely won’t teach her anything. Also worth noting: when your cat scratches, jumps, and climbs, those are all natural behaviors that you shouldn’t inhibit. The goal is to find ways to let your cat be herself without damaging your belongings. For this, you can use pet products that will encourage your kitty to do what you want while giving her what she needs too. For example, if your cat likes to jump on a tall piece of furniture, she might just need a cat tree or she might enjoy climbing up wall perches to get to the highest spot in the house. As another example, if you got her a vertical scratching post but she doesn’t really use it, she might prefer a different style, such as a horizontal one. In other words, it might just be a matter of selecting the right products for your unique kitty. Being ImpatientFinally, training pets requires patience, and because each cat is one-of-a-kind, some might require more training than others. Take your time, knowing that changes in behavior won’t happen overnight.

My Pet Is Destroying My Home: How to Deal With Chewing in Rabbits

There's no doubt that rabbits are wonderful and fun pets. They are sweet and affectionate, often goofy, and endlessly adorable. On the other hand, bunnies can – seemingly all of a sudden – begin displaying their more mischievous side and surprise you with their destructive behavior. They can begin chewing everything vigorously – baseboards, carpets, furniture, cables, curtains, plants… Anything goes! In addition to destroying your valuables, rabbits who chew things they are not supposed to are also putting themselves at risk. Sadly, when faced with this behavioral issue, many owners simply give up and abandon their bunnies, which is devastating. Especially considering that correcting chewing in rabbits is certainly doable – some would even say it’s easy when you know what you’re supposed to do. Just arm yourself with a bit of patience and get to work!Get to the Root of the ProblemBurrowing, digging, and nibbling on things are common and natural bunny behaviors. Dealing with them is just one of the common aspects of rabbit ownership. However, when these behaviors get out of hand and out of scale, it might be an indication of a bigger, underlying issue. Some of the main causes of overly destructive behavior are boredom, anxiety, loneliness, or even signifying your pet is in pain. If the reason for your bunny’s gnawing tendencies is boredom, then enrichment is the fix! Introduce a new play area, new toys, and puzzles, and a lot of mental and physical stimulation. Create little burrows, nooks, and crannies for exploration – anything that can occupy your bunny and give them a chance to play and have fun. Once their time is occupied like this, chewing can become a thing of the past. Your rabbit might be lonely, which is making them turn to bad behaviors, so try providing company as a solution. These are sociable animals that require a companion and plenty of quality interaction, and you might be working long hours – a bunny friend will definitely keep your pet on the right track and away from destructive behaviors.Of course, another reason your pet suddenly started nibbling on your stuff could simply be that they need more hay in their diet. Increase the amount of hay you’re feeding and pair it with natural chewing toys – it can completely shift your pet’s focus from things that are not meant for chewing.In case neither of these solutions helps, it simply might come down to hormones. If your bunny is not spayed or neutered, they can develop a lot of challenging behaviors, due to their strong hormones. It is recommended that all pet rabbits are spayed or neutered, so they can be the wonderful pets they are. If your bunny is not “altered”, this might be the reason for all that destructive chewing around the home.Rabbit-Proof Your HomeTo prevent this behavioral issue from causing any damage to your home or endangering your pet’s well-being, you’ll need to rabbit-proof your home. Protect electric cables with wire tubing, cover your baseboards with plastic guards, or simply fence off certain parts of the home. You should also provide chew toys and divert them from things that can’t be chewed. Once they accept the alternative and chew on approved stuff instead of your property, try rewarding this behavior with a treat. In no time, they will always go for the toys and leave the other things alone. Remember, it’s not only the fact that your rabbit is making a mess that’s the issue – but they might also be harmed if they chew on something they are not supposed to, such as an electric wire, a toxic plant, or a snack you’ve left behind that happens to be poisonous to your bunny (e.g. chocolate or avocado). Keep everything that might be dangerous somewhere they can’t reach it, and protect things that are on their height level from those curious chompers.ConclusionYour best bet, when dealing with a rabbit that suddenly started chewing everything you own, is to rabbit-proof your home and try to get to the underlying problem that’s causing this issue in the first place. Restricting access to items that are not allowed to be chewed on will prevent any unfortunate scenario, from ruined charger cables to emergency vet visits, but it won’t help you solve the problem altogether. To eliminate this destructive behavior, you’ll have to find out what is triggering it – boredom, loneliness, diet issues, health problems – and treat the root issue first.

Le Dog Company Bed Review

Having a dog bed for your pet is essential – they might like to cool off sleeping on the floor or nap on the couch while you watch Netflix, but the truth is that this can cause issues with joints later on in their life. It’s best to pick a bed designed for their body specifically, that will offer support and comfort for your four-legged bestie. And I do make sure that my dogs sleep on beds of their own, most of the time, but the truth is – most pet beds are just plain ugly.The designs stick out like a sore thumb in my living room, and I struggle to find something that actually matches my furniture and doesn’t look dingy after a few months of use. This is why I was ecstatic to find a Canadian-based company called Le Dog Company that makes stylish orthopedic beds for dogs. Not only that I love the fact that they are a local company owned by pet owners like myself, but I also love the fact that they support the local dog community with monthly donations to shelters and rescue groups, so with every purchase, you’re helping pooches in need. Amazing!But what about the Le Bed itself? I have to say, I’ve yet to see such craftsmanship and quality in another dog bed. The orthopedic mattress was designed to be human-grade quality yet adapted to the needs of canines: the base is a high-density foam that keeps the bed’s form and offers support, followed by a layer of cooling, gel-infused foam that contours to your pet’s body and keeps temperature regulated. This combination of different types of foam doesn’t just ensure breathability and comfort, but it also provides proper spinal alignment, as the foam will hug your dog’s body and relieve pressure from key stress points.It’s not only on the inside where this dog bed shines, though: the cover is made from full grain natural milled leather with a slight texture for an elegant, timeless look and a soft and supple texture. I got the one in the off-white color with a contrasting orange zipper and gold hardware as it goes beautifully with my furniture and complements the decor, but there are also five more leather options available: black, chocolate brown, cognac tan, slate grey, and python print. Whether you prefer a more minimalistic design or bold statement pieces, you’ll have no problem finding a Le Bed to match your home’s aesthetic.While I loved the leather choice from a style standpoint, I was a bit worried about how it would hold up to wear and tear and how easy it would be to clean it. Luckily, I worried for nothing, as it’s super easy to maintain and I’ve yet to see any damage on it. I just wipe off hair or dirt with a dry cloth and use Le Dog Leather Balm once a month to keep the bed looking good as new. It’s honestly less hassle for me than washing and drying – you might not agree, though, so consider carefully if genuine leather is the right choice for your preferences.Le Bed comes in two sizes – medium and large. Medium measures 33 by 25 by 6 inches and will support dogs up to 125 pounds of weight, and the large measures 45 by 35 by 6 inches and can support big dogs up to 185 pounds. Thanks to the quality foam mattress inside, this orthopedic dog bed will offer support to dogs of any shape and size but be sure that the dimensions are big enough for your dog to sprawl on top of the bed – choose according to measurements rather than weight limit alone.Pros:· Soft leather cover· Orthopedic mattress· Temperature regulated· 6 colors and 2 sizes to choose fromCons:· Slight off-gassing smell that lasts a few daysThe VerdictA little pricy, but beautiful and comfy. If price is a consideration, keep in mind that you won’t be replacing this mattress any time soon. It’s an investment that will keep your dog cool and comfortable for years to come. I love the softness of the leather and the fact that it’s easy to keep clean – fur won’t stick to it, which is good news for me. I would highly recommend this dog bed!

Same Day Delivery for Your Dog From DoorDash

Fido is longingly eyeing their empty food bowl, but you don’t have time to run out to the store and get them food? No problem – with real, fresh food ready to serve from FreshPet bought with PetSmart’s same-day delivery powered by DoorDash, your canine will dine like a royal in no time. This minimally processed food uses real, natural, non-GMO ingredients in their recipes, with meat as the first ingredient on the list. Protein-packed and delicious, this gently cooked dog food is easy to serve and good for your dog. Fine Dining the Canine Way

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