Crazy Cat Houses Let Your Kitty Be Indiana Jones

Samsung’s New TV Boxes Turn Into Cat Houses

Talk about resourceful packaging! Samsung Electronics’s award-winning efforts to move toward sustainable and reusable packing have delighted millions of feline fans, as the television packaging can be refurbished into delightful cat accommodations every kitty will love! Meow, meow! Check out the fancy new digs kitties can now have as they use the new eco-friendly efforts and packaging Samsung Electronics is putting forth as they move toward more sustainable and eco-friendly packaging!

Siberian Crazy Cat Farm Boasts a Million Feline Residents

Not sure what to get your crazy cat neighbor for the holidays? How about a trip to “Catland,” a farm in Siberia that about million cats call home! I love animals. I especially love dogs and cats, though I’m mostly when I’m forced to choose. I get how people can go a bit cray cray over their animals, I’m a bit guilty of some irrational indulging because : Related: Crazy Cat Houses Let Your Kitty Be Indiana Jones But this woman…Alla Lebedva from Prigorodny, Siberia…she takes the cake when it comes to literally letting your pets control your life. And your land.

DIY Gingerbread House for Cats is Too Tempting to Resist [Video]

Cats aren’t known for being gentle with Christmas trees. That’s why Cole and Marmalade’s parents decided to build a paw-some DIY gingerbread house for the duo! It’s Christmas, and your crazy cat(s) hates the tree. Like really hates it, and you’re afraid she’s either going to take it out, or make your life miserable while trying.

What Should I Include in a Pet First Aid Kit?

As loving pet parents, we do everything possible to keep our furry companions safe and healthy. However, life is unpredictable, and accidents happen, so we must be prepared for unexpected emergencies. This includes ensuring we have a fully stocked, pet-friendly first aid kit available. In this article, we’ll discuss the essential items you should have on hand to care for your pet in those unforeseen moments. From basic cuts and scrapes to more severe injuries, you’ll be prepared to act as your pet’s first line of defense when it matters most. Can You Use a Human First Aid Kit on Dogs and Cats? Yes, sort of. Most of the items included in a human first aid kit can be used to treat your pet in the case of an emergency. You may be wondering – if they can use the same supplies, why do I need a first aid kit specifically for pets? Some items you won’t find in a human first aid kit may be necessary depending on your pet’s injury or ailment. These could address a problem that only a dog or cat could experience, or they may involve finding alternatives for human products that are unsafe for our pets, like human medications. What Human First Aid Products Can Be Used on Dogs and Cats? Most standard items in your first aid kit can be used on dogs and cats. For example, bandages, gauze pads, ice packs, and medical tape are all suitable for pets. They are the exact same items often included in both human and pet first aid kits. Tools like scissors, latex gloves, and tweezers will also be helpful when performing first aid on a pet. This means that if you currently have a standard human first aid kit at home, you are already well on your way to being prepared to take care of your pet in an emergency. To update your human first aid kit and make it suitable for pets, you will just need to add a few important items:

What You Need to Know About XL Bully Ban

American XL Bully dogs will be banned by the end of the year after numerous attacks were reported across the United Kingdom. The term "XL Bully" typically refers to a type of  American Bully breed known for its muscular build and larger size compared to standard American Bullies. These dogs are often selectively bred for their size, strength, and temperament, so while they are not inherently aggressive, they have the means to do some damage if they are reared to be dangerous.The ban has owners of bully breeds across the UK scared and confused, so here’s what you need to know about the details of this edict. Starting from December 31st, all XL Bullies will have to be kept on a lead and have a muzzle while in public. What is more, from this date it will be completely illegal to advertise, breed, sell, exchange, gift, or abandon or let stray any XL Bullies. In short – it is a decisive strike against this breed, as announced by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, earlier this year.Furthermore, a complete ban on people owning XL Bullies will come into force in the UK from February 1st, 2023. This had owners scared that their pets would have to be put down just because of their breed, but, luckily, that’s not the case. If the owner applies before the end of January, with the wish to keep their pet. With that, the household will receive an exemption certificate, but it will also have to comply with a very strict set of rules related to the breed. UK government department Defra has announced that it received more than 4,000 exemption applications so far and that a “majority” were approved. Their spokesperson said that “ "The majority of applications are successful and the majority of successful applicants are receiving their certificates in less than a week."This only supports the assurances that there will be no “forced” euthanization of these dogs. However, those people that do not apply for an exemption by the end of the deadline, will have to put their XL Bullies down. They will be granted £200 to cover the costs of a vet euthanizing their dog. Rescue and rehoming organizations can claim £100 per animal for the same purpose. The government's website states "the euthanasia must be performed by 31 January 2024" for these financial claims to be successful. Sadly, because of this new law, at least 246 XL Bullies will be put down in the coming period, as their owners did not apply for an exemption, or were not granted one. American XL Bullies are not the first dogs to be banned in the UK. Several breeds were banned in the past, and owning them is now completely illegal. These breeds include the  Pitbull terrier,  Japanese Tosa,  Dogo Argentino, and  Fila Brasileiro. Owning a banned dog breed can get you in plenty of trouble, specifically an unlimited fine and a six-month prison sentence. 

Latest Studies Find That Aging in Dogs Can Mirror Aging in Humans

In the United States alone, pet owners spend around $1,500 a year on  veterinary care. To be precise, people tend to spend more on dogs than on any other pets – up to 41% of Americans spend $2,000 per year caring about their cherished canine friends. Of course, this is all in the hopes that their pet reaches their senior age with minimal issues and that they get to spend as many years enjoying their company. While providing veterinary care is an important factor that contributes to a pet’s longevity, it’s not always easy to determine when a certain procedure or treatment will help prolong your pet’s life and not their suffering. By comparing the concept they labeled “frailty” in humans and in dogs, a team of researchers hopes that they can help owners make better decisions about their pet’s care.Scientists behind the “ Dog Aging Project” are studying how they could improve your dog’s quality of life for many years to come. The team from the University of Washington is conducting extensive research, based on dogs of all ages, in their attempts to determine how their quality of life is impacted as they age. Dr. Anya Gambino, one of the chief veterinarians working on the project, says: “There's a quantity of life. It's amazing to have a long life, but you always want to have quality of life." The team’s UW Biologist and the Co-Director of the Project, Daniel Promislow, quickly drew a parallel with humans. "Dogs get the same kinds of diseases that humans get. They also show the same kinds of frailty that we see in humans," he said.The so-called “frailty” of dogs, which is the object of the study, is already studied in humans. Dr. Promislow firmly believes that through this study, researchers can gain a much better understanding of life expectancies in dogs and potential disease risks as well. "We hope we'll be able to figure out the relationship between frailty and the disease," Promislow says. But what exactly is this “frailty”? Researchers describe it as "a complex syndrome associated with aging. Because it considers physical, mental and emotional changes associated with aging, it is a better indicator of the body’s condition and overall health than age alone.""If we can do that, we can help vets treat dogs earlier before those diseases are apparent and can also help dogs enjoy their later years to the best degree possible," said Promislow.The study is on a very grand scale and already enrolls over 46,000 dogs across the United States. What is best, researchers believe that humans can also benefit from this extensive study. "The other thing about aging in dogs is that aging in dogs looks a lot like aging in people," said Promislow. "What we learn about aging in dogs is going to help us learn about aging in people, as well."Hopefully, this would mean that many more dogs would get a chance to enjoy their golden years, right by their owner's side. "They provide us with so much unconditional love, joy, and humor," said Dr. Gambino. "We can do something for them that gives them the best chance for living a very happy life with us."

TikTok "Cheese Tax" Video Seriously Resonates with Pet Owners

Viral TikTok video spills the beans on sharing with our pooches!

Sleeping With Pets: Here's What Experts Have to Say

Pet parents adore their four-legged companions so much that they choose to sleep with them at night. Research shows that more than half of pet owners sleep with their pets. Most pet owners consider their pets part of the family, so it is no surprise that they will go out of their way to ensure their furry companions’ comfort. However, with an increasing focus on our sleep health, pet parents are starting to wonder about the potential disadvantages of sleeping with pets. In fact, sharing a bed with a pet is the subject of controversy among pet parents.Various studies suggest that there are many benefits to sleeping with pets. And experts tend to agree. According to Audrey Wells, MD, a board-certified sleep medicine physician, a pet can provide an emotional connection and reduce anxiety and stress levels, therefore promoting sleep. “Some people may consider their pets an added layer of security, dependable to alert them to unexpected noises or lights.”Another benefit of sleeping with your pet is that they can keep you nice and warm during the night. People who get chilled easily might enjoy cuddling with a furry companion during frigid winter nights.“Pets are sensitive to routine, and they can help enforce a regular bedtime and better sleep quality for their owner,” explained Dr. Wells. “Similarly, pets can signal wake-up time in the morning and even prompt some time outside for a walk and daylight exposure.”If you enjoy sleeping with your pet and find it beneficial for your sleep, the science agrees with you. According to Amanda Farah, National Training and Behavioral Coordinator at Best Friends Animal Society, studies have found that some people sleep more soundly when their dog is sleeping next to them. “If you and your dog both sleep well together, you’ll enjoy the health benefits that come with a good night’s sleep, such as improved mental clarity, lower blood pressure, reduced stress, and a stronger immune system,” explained Farah.According to Teddy Cralle, Ms, RN, certified clinical sleep educator, some people sleep better when their pet is in the bed, but some don’t. If there’s a chance that you won't get a good night’s rest while sleeping with your pet you shouldn't sleep with them in the first place. For example, if you’re a light sleeper and your dog likes to change positions during the night, sleeping with your pooch may wake you more often, resulting in low-quality sleep. Also, some pups like to claim the entire bed for themselves, leading to a sleepless night and a backache. “Sacrificing your sleep means sacrificing your health, well-being, and quality of life - and that is not a sacrifice to make,” Cralle added.Sharing a bed with a pet may not be the best idea if you’re an asthma or allergy sufferer. Although some dog breeds shed less than others, no dog is truly hypoallergenic because it’s their dander and not hair that triggers an allergic reaction. Zoonotic diseases are another downside of sleeping with pets. Research has confirmed that sharing a bed with a pet can increase the exposure rate to pathogens that might be present. Although no one wants to think about it, pets can bring unwanted guests to your bed. Fleas and ticks are the most active during the warmer months, but the truth is they can infest your pet all year long. If the downsides of sleeping with your pet have made you reconsider your sleeping arrangement don’t fret - you can still have your pooch close by while you sleep. A crate or a cozy dog bed next to your bed will help everyone get a good night’s rest. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

The Season of Giving Begins With A Leap

We're excited to announce a special initiative in celebration of the season of thankfulness and November's Senior Pet Adoption Month. Starting today, Leap Years is offering a free bottle of its daily chewable supplement to anyone who adopts a senior dog (over 5 years old) from a shelter or rescue. All you need is proof of adoption, and while supplies last, your senior pup can start benefiting from Leap Years' formula that has already changed the lives of dogs across the country.

This Revolutionary Drug Could Help Extend the Lifespan of Dogs

In a groundbreaking trial that is set to launch in the United States, around 1,000 elderly dogs will be given a pill – in the form of a sweet treat – in the hope that their lives will be extended because of it. Behind this innovative work stands Loyal, a startup company based in Silicon Valley. They are currently gathering a number of senior dogs through a well-developed network of veterinary practices in all US states. The tests are set to launch before the end of 2023, after four years of complex studies.In this case, all dogs must be over 10 years old in order to be included in the study. The study itself is set to be a “randomized double-blind placebo trial”. The director of veterinary medicine at Loyal, the company behind this trial, Dr. Brennen McKenzie, said for  Telegraph that this will “probably be the largest clinical trial in veterinary medical history”.“We’re hoping to show that we can both increase the length of life and, more importantly, the length of time these dogs live healthy and happy and functional lives,” McKenzie states. “We’re looking at the length of time that dogs live on the drug and the placebo, hoping to show that we can extend their lifespan and also hoping to show that they develop less disease.”What the study will potentially show is that dogs who receive the drug will live one year longer - on average compared to those who are taking the “placebo” drug. Still, the length of life gained is only one aspect, Dr McKenzie said at the North American Veterinary Community’s Veterinary Innovation Summit in Kansas City. McKenzie also added that increasing health was their number one priority.“We think of lifespan as the amount of time that you live but healthspan is the amount of time that you have good health, good function, good quality of life,” Dr McKenzie said. “That’s clearly the most important thing”.All of this sounds quite “larger than life”, no pun intended. And, of course, with such advanced propositions, the trial drug and its contents are a closely guarded secret, especially due to commercial reasons. This will be the situation until the trial of the drug is finished. And if the drug happens to be as efficient as hoped, Loyal plans to place it on the market immediately, offering an affordable daily supplement that can extend the lives of dogs. “If we get through this four-year trial and we achieve our endpoints, the FDA will license us to sell this as a prescription medication and it will be the first medication ever to extend lifespan in any species,” Dr McKenzie said. “We are absolutely interested in a product that is accessible to the majority of pet owners.”It is worth noting that the drug in question was already proven to be safe for consumption, and there is a low risk of this potential supplement causing any unwanted side effects. Loyal is a company that has two other products in the works, and they are also scheduled to undergo extensive tests. However, work is not yet finished, and one of the two is expected to go on trial around 2026. 

New Study Shows Which Dog Breeds Are Most Likely to Get Cancer

When it comes to humans, early detection is key when dealing with different types of cancer, and the same is true for canines. Naturally, a healthy diet, daily exercise, and regular veterinary checkups can all help keep your four-legged companion in tip-top condition.But, wouldn’t it be great if you knew in advance that your pooch is more predisposed to cancer? A new study published in Royal Society Open Science shows that there is a strong link between the dog’s size and their likelihood of getting cancer.Leonard Nunney, a biologist at the University of California, Riverside, and the lead author of the study wanted to understand how cancer starts and how it is initiated in different dog breeds. Nunney explained that while humans have an increased risk of developing cancer as they get older, the same isn’t true for dogs.This new study looked at dogs ranging in size from a tiny Chihuahua up to a mastiff, and a giant Great Dane. Despite the popular belief that larger dog breeds are at a higher risk of cancer, it turned out that bigger dogs are at a lower risk of developing any type of cancer simply because they tend to have shorter lifespans compared to smaller dog breeds, which typically live longer. Breeds like golden retrievers, German shepherds, and Labrador retrievers are considered large dogs and usually live up to 12 years. This study showed that smaller dog breeds, like Chihuahuas, terriers, and Pomeranians are at a higher risk for developing cancer because they tend to live longer, typically around 15 years or more. While doing their research, Nunney and his team made another discovery. They learned that certain dog breeds, regardless of their size, are more predisposed to developing certain cancers.Nunney lists terriers, specifically West Highland terriers, also known as Westies, as having a higher likelihood of developing bladder cancer. Flat-coated retrievers are prone to a rare type of cancer, called sarcoma, which is found in soft tissues and bones. In addition to these two breeds, Bernese mountain dogs are also more likely to develop cancer than other dog breeds. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, one in four dogs will, at some point in their life, develop cancer. Furthermore, almost half of dogs over the age of 10 will develop some type of cancer. But before you rush to get your dog to the vet for a full checkup, know that just because smaller breeds are more likely to develop cancer, that doesn’t mean they will. According to researchers, only a few dog breeds tend to be predisposed to cancer, as this illness is caused by genetic mutations. The researchers also discovered that while ancestry-based interbreeding reduces the breed’s life expectancy, it doesn’t increase the risk of cancer. Thanks to this new research scientists and animal experts can better understand dog breeds and how their genetics play a role in developing cancer. “Dogs are an extremely good model for understanding the genetic changes that may lead to a higher susceptibility of specific cancers,” added Nunney. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Do I Do if My Dog Has a Chipped Tooth?

Discovering that your dog is hurt or in pain is a concerning moment for any pet parent, regardless of the injury. But dental injuries can be particularly stressful. If you have ever experienced a toothache, you understand!Whether your pup chipped a tooth during a rough play session with their best furry friend or while gnawing on a hard chew like a bone or antler, any dental damage must be addressed promptly.Read on to learn how to prioritize your dog’s dental health, including identifying if they may be suffering from a broken or chipped tooth, how to address dental damage and tips for preventing a broken tooth before it happens. Your pup will thank you!Common Signs of a Broken or Chipped ToothThe first step to caring for dental problems is to identify that your dog is experiencing an issue. The signs of dental problems vary considerably. While some dogs won’t show any discomfort, others may demonstrate considerable pain. This is due not only to the difference in a dog’s personality and pain threshold but also the spectrum of injuries that fall under the heading of “dental problems.”Broken teeth can be categorized into three groups:Enamel Fractures: Damage only to the enamel of the tooth.Crown Fractures: Damage extends deeper into the tooth, breaking the crown and exposing the pulp.Root Fractures: The root of the tooth has been broken.Unless you inspect your dog’s teeth regularly and spot a problem, we often have to rely on body language and behavioral changes to know there’s a problem. Unfortunately, dogs are very good at hiding pain, so they may be suffering from a problem for a while before we’re aware that there is an issue.Some of the more common signs of a broken or chipped tooth include:Excessive droolingBloody salivaPawing at their muzzleChewing on one side of the mouthReluctancy to eat and kibble or harder-to-chew itemsRefusal to eat at allAvoiding drinking cold waterGrinding teethSwelling in the faceDiscomfort or reluctance to have muzzle touchedWhining or whimpering Not playing as they would normally Sudden or out-of-character aggressive or anxious behaviorTrembling or shaking

What Are the Requirements for Flying with a Dog?

While traveling with your pet can be challenging, it doesn’t have to be. Even though some  airlines can be a bit finicky about their rules and regulations, you can fly with your pet in tow safely and comfortably, as long as you know their requirements and follow them to the letter.Having your choice of airlines to travel with your dog as your companion, broadens your options when it comes to travel destinations and can eliminate a lot of usual travel-related stress factors in the process. In fact, flying your pet together with you can be simple, straightforward, and hassle-free! As long as you stick to the rules, that is. So, without further ado, what are the requirements for flying with a dog? Are there any universal practices you should know or does it really depend from company to company? Here’s everything you should know before packing your bags.What Are the Requirements for Flying with a Dog?Of course, it goes without saying that you can’t just appear with your pet at the check-in gate and fly away! There are many important rules involved, mainly in order to keep your pet safe, to comply with specific airline regulations, the rules of other countries, and the comfort of other passengers as well. It is also important to remember that different airlines might have different rules. It is crucial that you contact your desired airline beforehand, checking about any special regulations that they require. Still, there are some universal criteria that any pet will have to meet in order to fly on a plane.One of the foremost requirements that will allow your pet to fly on a plane is a health certificate. This is a special document that can be issued by your veterinarian after a thorough physical examination. It guarantees that your doggo is healthy, has no diseases, and has all the required vaccinations that are up to date. And, of course, this certificate needs to be recent. They are valid for only about 30 days, so make sure to do it in time. Some airlines also require that your pet be microchipped. This is advisable for all pet owners regardless of travel or not. The  microchip allows for quick and simple identification in case your pet gets lost and also serves as a sort of doggo credential. Just make sure that all the information stored on the chip is up-to-date!

Dog Facial Recognition App Helps Scientists Fight Against Rabies

In countries where dogs aren’t microchipped, don’t wear tags, and usually run free, it’s challenging for authorities to determine which dog has already been vaccinated for rabies. A new mobile phone app could help improve rabies vaccination by identifying dogs using facial recognition technology.A team of researchers from Washington State University tested the app’s effectiveness in a rabies vaccination clinic in Tanzania, where they microchipped, vaccinated, and registered dogs. The idea behind this project is to take a picture of a dog’s face during initial vaccination. Then the picture needs to be entered into the database via the app, along with other important information, such as the dog’s age, sex, and coat color. When veterinarians return to the same area, they will take a facial photo of each dog they come across. If the app finds a close match in the database, it will notify the vet, who can then decide whether the vaccinated dog in the database is indeed the same dog they are currently examining. A vaccination team testing the app visited nine villages in Tanzania, where they photographed and vaccinated 1,420 dogs. After the initial check, 20 images were deemed unusable, leaving exactly 1,400 to work with. All of these photographs were added to the app’s database.Later, a different validation team visited the same villages, assessing 720 dogs via the app, not knowing which dogs were already vaccinated, and entered into the app’s database. Once again, some photos were deemed unusable for the study - 161 were rejected.Using those images, the app helped the team to correctly identify 76.2% of vaccinated dogs and 98.9% of unvaccinated dogs. These findings were confirmed using microchips that were implanted under the dogs’ skin when they were vaccinated, as part of the study.“Because domestic dogs are the main reservoir for human rabies, controlling human rabies globally requires the mass vaccination of dogs,” said Felix Lankester, WSU Associate Professor and the lead investigator of the study. Scientists are working to optimize the app’s registration process to minimize the number of rejected photos. “When carrying out mass vaccination, one of the major problems that we face is trying to identify which dogs have and haven’t been vaccinated. For example, microchips are too expensive to use at the scale needed to eliminate rabies, and collars can be removed by owners. We developed this app to see if facial recognition might work, and it’s showing great promise in helping us achieve that goal,” Professor Lankester added. The facial recognition algorithm used by the app is developed in collaboration with Canadian company PiP My Pet. It identifies a dog by looking at key features of its face and comparing it to previously stored photos of the faces of other dogs. Photos with the highest number of similar features are shown as possible matches, leaving it to the user to pick the right one.The app’s success depends on the image quality and information about each dog being properly recorded. Before unusable images and incorrect information about dogs were removed from the database, users were only able to match around 65% of the vaccinated dogs.For the time being, users must be online to use the app’s facial matching feature, but Lankester and his team are working to make the app operational even offline. “We’re not quite there yet, but I think with the investment, the technology can get there. I am excited by its potential,” Lankester said.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Watch As Adorable Shelter Dogs Pick Their Own Christmas Toys

The holiday season is associated with traditions and festivities as we gather with family, put up festive decorations, and exchange holiday gifts. For pet parents, these traditions often carry over to spoiling our furry companions. But what about the thousands of pets sitting in shelters and rescues around the world, waiting for their forever home?One rescue based in Ireland has embraced a heartwarming tradition since 2017. Each year, Dogs Trust Ireland collects donations from the public. Hundreds of donated toys are placed in a room, and the pets are brought in one at a time to select their perfect holiday gift. They record the selection process, sharing the adorable footage on their YouTube channel for animal lovers worldwide to enjoy. “The reason we love making the video so much is that it’s so special to witness each dog’s individual reaction. Some burst in the door and scatter toys everywhere in an excited frenzy, and when they choose ‘the’ toy, they do excited zoomies,” explained Corina Fitzsimons, Public Relations and Communications Manager. “For dog lovers, it doesn’t get much better than seeing dogs doing Zoomies! Others prefer people and, after a sniff, will come over for cuddles. Then there are those who test every toy three or four times before picking, and many of the Collies who find a plain ball, throw it at our feet, and look at us as if to say, ‘Please throw human,’ which we are happy to oblige with.” This year, a total of 54 dogs were recorded as they carefully made their selection. While some dogs quickly found that perfect holiday toy, others took as long as 20 minutes to settle on a favorite. The organization promises that every one of the 264 dogs in their care will receive at least one toy during the holiday season, thanks to the generous donations they received.

Once-Abused Dog Celebrates First Christmas With Vet Who Saved Him

A puppy who survived a terrible beating has celebrated his ‘first proper’ Christmas with a veterinarian nurse who provided a loving furever home for him.A whippet named Terry was only 12 weeks old when he was viciously attacked by his owner and left with severe trauma injuries after he urinated inside. The injured pup was taken to the Hull PDSA Animal Hospital in East Yorks, England, where he was treated by the veterinary nurse Rachel Coombes. During the initial exam, the hospital’s staff discovered that Terry had a bruised eye and lips. The pup was also missing three of his upper incisors, and another tooth was broken.For nurse Coombes, this was love at first sight! She told her colleagues that if Terry survived, she would adopt him, and that’s exactly what she did.Although Terry celebrated Christmas with Rachel and her son Stanley last year, this year was their ‘first proper’ Christmas together since Terry is now fully settled in with the family.“I just felt a connection as soon as he was brought in as he was in such a state we actually thought initially that he hadn’t made it,” said nurse Rachel according to Talker. “Then when we spotted gentle breathing I did say ‘if he survives this I’m going to give him home’ which is exactly what I did.”From that moment on, Terry’s life changed completely! “He hasn’t looked back since - he loves life and is having the best of life right now.” According to his new owner, Terry likes to run around the garden and enjoys going to the beach. The pooch has also formed a strong bond with Rachel’s son, Stanley, and is always by his side. “Last year, we got him around Christmas, but it was such a hectic time for him, and he was learning to settle then.” But this year, the family planned a festive celebration for Terry and did everything to make him feel special during the holiday season. Due to the suspicious nature of Terry’s injuries, RSPCA Inspector Laura Barber was asked to investigate. The inspector said that despite the severity of his injuries and his overall state, Terry had put his head on her and was so trusting. “He was in such a sad state and was really quiet and withdrawn when he was with people. He was so lovable, and it is great to see he has a home he deserves with such a lovely family.”“I know Terry will have the best first proper Christmas with his lovely new family and one he thoroughly deserves,” the inspector added. Terry’s extensive injuries were enough to build a case against his former owner. After appearing in court and admitting to causing unnecessary suffering to a dog, the person was handed a five-year ban on keeping animals. Emily Lomas, an animal care assistant at RSPCA’s Hull branch, said she was thrilled when she learned that Rachel had adopted Terry. “He was very traumatized and overwhelmed when he came to us, we had to really show him there was nothing to be scared of and that he was now safe. We took him to the socialization room, and I remember him falling asleep on my legs,” said Lomas.“We were all thrilled when he was adopted and knew he was going to a special home,” she added.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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

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

Can You Prevent Joint Pain in Dogs?

As dogs near their golden years, different health issues tend to pop up – sometimes completely out of the blue, and sometimes a little less unexpectedly. One of the more common health problems dogs experience as they age that can be predicted fairly easily and as such prevented on time are joint issues. Providing proper support for your dog while they are still young and agile can dramatically improve their quality of life later on, so it pays to start thinking ahead when it comes to joint health, especially if your pet is in a high-risk group for developing this type of problem (large breed dogs, working breeds, highly active dogs, etc). Here’s what you need to know to make sure your pet doesn’t suffer from joint pain in their senior years.5 Crucial Steps to Prevent Joint Pain in DogsWhile some factors contributing to joint pain are beyond our control, there are different proactive steps we can take to support our pet's joint health:#1 Maintain a Healthy WeightJust as in humans, obesity in dogs exacerbates joint strain and can accelerate the onset of joint problems. A balanced diet will go a long way in helping your pet maintain a healthy weight, so strive to ensure they are getting only quality food that is based mostly on protein and doesn’t contain unhealthy fats and too many fillers such as soy or corn.#2 Provide Regular ExerciseModerate, low-impact exercise helps keep joints limber and muscles strong. However, be mindful of your dog's limitations, as pushing them too far can end up being counterproductive. Activities like swimming and walks are excellent choices, just make sure to tailor the pace to your pet’s capabilities.#3 Quality Supplementation Providing a diet rich in essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, supports joint health. However, even when feeding a good quality kibble, it’s not always feasible to rely on your pet’s diet alone to be enough to provide all of these joint-nurturing ingredients in the right ratio. This is where dog joint supplements come in to enrich your pet’s diet with specific nutrients. 

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