Tips For Taking Your Cat On Vacation With You

by Lisa Selvaggio

Published: April 1st, 2021

tips for taking your cat on vacation with you

Taking a trip with your kitty? Here are some tips to go over before you leave the house.

If you’re planning a trip, you might be tempted to take your beloved feline companion with you. After all, one way to make a vacation or camping trip even better is by having your four-legged bestie at your side! But your wish to share the adventure with your pet isn’t the only thing to consider when deciding whether you should bring him along or let him stay home with a pet sitter.

Some Cats and Travel Don’t Always Mix

Unlike dogs, cats generally don’t like to travel, and they can get stressed when you take them out of the environment that they’re used to. Sometimes, even moving to a new house can be nerve-wracking for a feline, so you can imagine what a road trip or vacation would do, considering those require being away from home for long stretches of time.

But not all cats are alike, of course, and some might be so easygoing that traveling doesn’t bother them. Some kitties even prefer getting out of the house and going on little adventures with their owners. And a surprising number of cats absolutely love exploring, and seek out opportunities for experiencing new surroundings. Just look at famous felines like Vladimir the traveling cat and Simon the backpacking kitty as a couple of examples.

Remember, every cat is an individual with a unique personality and preferences. And if you do decide that you want to take your pet on a short trip or a long vacation, there are steps you can take to help ensure the experience will be as enjoyable as possible for everyone involved.

First, Ask Yourself: Does Your Cat Really Want to Go on Vacation with You?

The first thing you need to consider is whether or not your cat would really enjoy going on vacation with you. Are you making the decision to bring him along because you will really miss him, and you don’t want to have to worry about him while you’re away from home and he’s all alone? Or do you think that going on a trip would be as fun for your pet as it would be for you?

The majority of felines would likely prefer to remain on their home turf, where they have their own routine, they’re familiar with the environment and what to expect every day, and they have their comfy bed and fun toys to play with. However, if your cat is an exception to the rule and one that actually does really well with changing environments and travel, you can go ahead and take him on the journey.

What if you aren’t the proud parent of an adventure cat? Well, if your pet is easily frazzled by change, or if he gets stressed when he has to go in his carrier or on a car ride, it is probably best to just let him stay home while you go on your getaway. Hiring a reputable cat sitter or having a friend or relative visit your cat a few times a day can help ensure he’ll be safe and have plenty of food, water, and clean litter until you get home. And this could also help you rest assured that any emergencies that might arise can be addressed promptly too.

Consult with Your Veterinarian for Advice

You can talk to your veterinarian about your plans for traveling with your cat, and he or she can give you some valuable advice and tips on how to make the journey a smooth and safe one for your pet. Plus, if you want to access remedies that can help keep your pet calm and happy during the trip, your vet can assist in this area as well.

Your vet can also examine your kitty prior to your trip to be sure he’s healthy enough to be away from home. And if your pet takes any prescription medications or is on a prescription diet, you can talk to your vet about making sure you have enough supply until you get back home.

Another thing to think about is whether or not your cat will need any special vaccinations, and if you’ll need to provide proof of an exam and vaccines. This may depend on your destination, so be sure to get all of the paperwork sorted and packed before you head off.

Make the Journey a Stress-Free Experience

Even if your kitty isn’t one of those that live for adventure and the great outdoors, you might still have no choice but to make him your traveling companion. For example, if you absolutely cannot find anyone you trust to pet sit while you’re away, your only option may be to take him with you. No matter the reason for taking your cat with you on a trip, it’s imperative that you do everything possible to make the journey as stress-free and safe as possible for your furry companion.

Depending on your mode of transportation, it’s wise to take steps to ensure your cat will be secure at all times and will remain as calm as possible. After all, traveling by car will be a different experience than traveling by plane. And you also need to consider how long you’ll be en route to your destination as well. For instance, there are various pet carriers and travel crates that you can use to safely transport your cat, but the one you select will depend on factors like the amount of space you have in your car or on the plane, and whether or not a specific type of carrier is required by an airline.

Plan Ahead to Pack Everything Your Cat Will Need

No matter how you plan on traveling, it’s critical that you pack the right products and supplies for your pet. After all, you’ll be far from home, and it might be difficult to find stores where you can make purchases quickly and easily when you need something in a pinch.

Here are some of the many products that you will need when traveling with your feline friend:

Litter box and litter
Food and water
Toys
Blanket
Cat bed
Carrier
Enclosure
Medications
Collar, ID tags, harness, and leash

Try Using Products That Can Help Keep Cat Calm While Traveling

A soft-sided carrier with a soft blanket and a familiar toy might help your cat feel at ease, as it will remind him of home. But, in addition to selecting the right carrier for comfort and security while you travel with your cat, there are also several products that you can use to help your pet feel as calm as possible.

When it comes to natural remedies that can help a kitty feel relaxed, options include:

Bach Flower Essences, such as Rescue Remedy
Feline pheromone sprays
Herbs, such as chamomile, catnip, and valerian

These types of products rely on natural ingredients that may calm down your pet without having to resort to medications. But, even though there are over-the-counter products that you can use to ease your pet’s anxiety naturally, keep in mind that it’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian before trying anything new, as you’ll want to be sure a product is appropriate and safe for your companion. And, in the event that these options aren’t effective enough, you can talk to your vet about prescriptions that might be right for your kitty.

Tip: If your vet recommends a new remedy—whether it’s over-the-counter or a prescription—to help your cat travel, you may want to try it out in advance to see how your pet reacts to it. That way, you can be sure it’s safe to use when you’re away from home too.

Tips for Traveling by Car

Because train and bus companies may not allow pets onboard, the best option for traveling with your cat might be by car. If, however, your cat gets car sick or stressed, this could be a challenge.

There are anti-nausea medications for felines, so if your pet is prone to car sickness, consult with your veterinarian about possible treatments. And, no matter what, keep your kitty in his carrier, and strap the carrier to the car’s seat using a seatbelt in order to help keep him safe in the event of an accident.

Note: Most cats will be vocal at the beginning of a car ride, but they often quiet down and end up napping. If your cat is really stressed, though, you may need to get sedatives from your veterinarian to ensure a smooth journey.

Also, don’t forget to bring a small litter pan and litter for your cat to use in the car until you reach your destination. And, of course, be sure to pack plenty of fresh food and water, too. You can work on keeping your cat content by making sure he has some of his favorite treats and food to keep him satisfied during the trip.

Tips for Traveling by Plane

Traveling by plane can be stressful and sometimes dangerous for pets, especially when they’re placed in cargo. Therefore, it’s wise to make arrangements with your airline to bring your cat onboard with you.

The carrier you use to keep your pet secure should meet the airline’s requirements, so do research in advance to be sure you are fully prepared for the journey. For example, the airline might require that the carrier fit beneath your seat.

If you absolutely must put your pet in cargo, you need to be sure you purchase an appropriate carrier that’s properly labeled with your information and destination so you can be reunited with your pet if he’s accidentally misplaced at any point during your travels.

Tip: Booking a direct flight is usually a lot less traumatizing than taking multiple flights, and it also reduces the risk of your pet getting lost.

Book a Pet-Friendly Hotel

Many hotels don’t allow pets, so your choices may be limited. Again, when it comes to traveling with your kitty, it’s all about doing plenty of research in advance so you’ll know where to go and what to expect. By searching for a pet-friendly hotel, you can rest assured that you and your companion will have a clean and safe place to stay while you’re on vacation together.

Once you settle into your hotel room, it’s a great idea to set up a collapsible pet tent or other enclosure for your cat to stay in whenever you aren’t in the room. Even keeping your pet in a crate or carrier while you’re gone is wise. The last thing you’d want is for the housekeeper to open the door and let your cat out, or for your pet to dart out when you come back to your hotel room.

Another strategy you can use to help keep your cat safe while in the hotel room, and even while you’re both out and about together: have him wear a collar with ID tags to indicate who he belongs to. Make sure the tags display your contact information so people can get in touch with you if they find your lost pet.

Are You Hoping to Travel with Your Cat?

Vacationing with any pet can be difficult, but felines can be especially challenging. They tend to be reluctant to change their routine and be in unfamiliar environments. However, training your cat to tolerate travel, preferably at a young age, and taking steps to reduce your pet’s anxiety when you’re both on the go may help ensure your kitty can go on a fun getaway with you. Exposure to new experiences and surroundings, combined with socialization at an early age, might help you avoid behavioral issues down the road too, so even if you’re unsure if you’ll be traveling with your kitty when he grows up, it doesn’t hurt to socialize him for it just in case the need to take him on the road ever arises.

Lisa Selvaggio

Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.

More by Lisa Selvaggio

RSPCA Blames Film and Social Media for Overcrowding in Shelters

View Article

Cats And Car Rides: How To Get Them To Mix

Is your kitty equipped for your next road trip? While dogs enjoy car rides and actually look forward to them, cats are skittish creatures of habit who prefer to stay on solid ground in an environment they’re used to. It can be quite hard to train a cat to tolerate being in a moving vehicle, but it isn’t impossible. And doing so will make it a lot less stressful on your pet if you wish to travel with him or if you need to bring him to the vet (after all, being at the vet is stressful enough on its own). Start Early While any cat can be trained to tolerate being in a car, it’s a lot easier for a kitten to adjust to the experience and become used to it to the point that he no longer feels stressed by it. Therefore, if you can, start training him early. Related: Tips For Taking Your Cat On Vacation With You Get Your Cat to Love the Carrier Many cats get frazzled at the sight of their carrier, knowing that they’ll be forced into it and taken to the vet, but you can make your cat feel comfortable while inside it. Use the natural flower essences and pheromones listed below, but start by purchasing a comfortable carrier your cat will like, such as a soft-sided carrier filled with blankets and a catnip toy. Leave the carrier out in the house even when you aren’t planning a trip so that your cat can grow accustomed to going into and out of it as he wishes without viewing it as a threat. Use Flower Essences Bach Flower Essences are completely natural remedies that can help animals suffering with a variety of ailments. They’re commonly prescribed by holistic veterinarians, and they won’t cause any side effects. Rescue Remedy is the go-to Bach Flower Essence for animals who are undergoing any kind of stressful situation, including a car ride. You can begin administering the remedy up to a day before your anticipated trip and then continue giving your pet the remedy at regular intervals and during the journey as well. If you start seeing a positive response, though, you can decrease the amount you’re giving. Related: Study Finds Most Pet Travel Seats Not Effective During Car Crashes Typically, you can give four to eight drops at a time. You can do so by mouth, taking care not to contaminate the dropper while ensuring the remedy at least hits the mucous membranes for absorption (it doesn’t need to be swallowed for it to work). You can also apply it topically, usually on the ears and head, by putting some in your hand and patting your cat with it. And, finally, you can also opt to put some into your cat’s wet food or water bowl. Another great thing about Bach Flower Essences is the fact that they’ll work when sprayed in a cat’s environment. So you can spray your pet’s carrier prior to putting him into it in order for him to feel less stressed once inside. Try Pheromones If the Bach Flower Essences don’t work, you can also try a product known as Feliway, which contains a feline pheromone that brings about a sense of tranquility in a stressed pet. Spray this product in your cat’s carrier only, as it shouldn’t be used directly on your cat. Practice, Practice, Practice Once you’ve done everything you can to get your cat comfortable with being in his carrier, the next step is to make him comfortable within the car. This takes a lot of practice and patience. Start by bringing your cat into your car and strapping the carrier to the seat just as you would if you were going for a ride. But instead of hopping into the driver’s seat, sit next to the carrier and make sure your pet is calm. Once your cat shows that he’s at ease, give him a treat. Follow this routine many times until your cat can go for longer periods of time in a calm state, waiting for his treat. Once your pet is fine with being in a car that’s off, it’s time to test him with the engine on, following the same reward system for remaining calm. Then head out on really short trips, starting with going around the block and then going a little further away from home each time. Eventually, you should take your kitty out on the highway and to and from your vet’s office so he gets accustomed to the twists and turns and varying speeds. Rewarding his calm behavior with treats will ensure he ends up enjoying the ride. While many cats never fully adjust to car rides, the key is to at least get your pet to the point that he isn’t overly stressed by the experience. Doing so will limit your stress as well.

How To Hire The Right Cat Sitter For Your Frisky Feline

They may be more independent than dogs, but cats can’t be left alone while you’re out of town. Here are a few tips on hiring the right cat sitter. Hiring a cat sitter can be a daunting process because there are a lot of people out there who are willing to pet sit but not all of them are qualified enough or even kind and patient enough. It’s a difficult task of weeding out who is right for this position takes a bit of time and plenty of research. But if you follow the tips below, it should make the process easier on you and you’ll hopefully be able to find a cat sitter who suits your needs, fulfills your requirements, and is a hit with your kitty as well. Start by Researching Pet Sitting Services Many small businesses open up every day offering pet sitting services, so doing a bit of research online may yield a surprising number of results in your area that you can further research and narrow down to the best candidates. Whenever you do come across a pet sitter or pet sitting company, though, be sure to look up reviews left by other customers. That way, you can gauge how effective they really are at what they do and if they really fulfill all of the claims that they make on their website. Related: Tips For Taking Your Cat On Vacation With You You can also find pet sitters through referrals. You can ask your veterinarian, local humane society, or friends and family. You may be surprised to learn that these individuals know very qualified and dedicated pet sitters. But again, even though you’re getting a referral from someone you trust, it certainly doesn’t hurt to go a step further and look up reviews on these options as well. Interview a Potential Cat Sitter First Never hire a cat sitter blindly. Instead, take some time to interview potential cat sitters over the phone or, better yet, in person. You can meet in a public place or you can invite these pet sitters to your home to meet your animals and see how they interact with one another. This will tell you a lot about how these individuals react to new pets they have never met before, as well as how your cat will react to being around them. Related: How To Administer Medications To Your Cat Questions to Ask During the interview process, you should find out what experience a pet sitter has with felines. Have they volunteered in animal sheltering and rescue? Have they owned cats themselves? Do they understand how to deal with cats of all ages and what goes into their care? The pet sitter you hire should be insured and bonded. This means that commercial liability insurance will cover the costs associated with negligence and accidents while you are away from home and the sitter is taking care of your pets. Being bonded means you will also be protected in the event the sitter, or another employee of the pet sitting company, steals from you. A reputable cat sitter will also provide you with a written contract stating the fees you are required to pay and the services that will be provided to you and your cat. Ask for references from the cat sitter. Like reviews, these will help you determine if the individual is really a good fit and lives up to his or her claims. Other Things to Consider Before Hiring Before settling on a pet sitter, you should also be sure they have training in dealing with cats. This can include a certification in pet first aid, for example, or any other form of training that would make them qualified to deal with felines and really understand their needs. Every cat sitter you interview should have a backup sitter available in the event they cannot make an appointment. This will ensure your cat is always taken care of. Just be sure to get plenty of information on the backup sitter(s) as well. Your cat sitter should be associated with a reputable veterinarian who would care for your kitty in the event of an emergency. A good sitter will also know how to medicate your cat if necessary, and be more than willing to record detailed notes during every visit to fill you in on what happened. The sitter should even be willing to communicate with you while you’re away from home to assure you that everything is fine, as well as alert you right away to emergencies. If you hire the right cat sitter, when you return home, your kitty will be safe and content, just as you left him. Taking the time to properly interview your cat sitter is a great way to ensure all will be well while you are away.

Dog-Friendly Tropical Trips Await in Mexico

Don’t want to travel solo on your tropical vacation? Bring your pooch – the Four Seasons offers dog-friendly, 5-star resort relaxation. When you book a tropical vacation to somewhere like Mexico, you usually need to be mindful of where your furry friend is going to spend those few days while you’re gone soaking up the sun during your vacation. This is because most exotic resorts don’t allow pets. Fortunately, thanks to the rise in pet popularity over the years, the Four Seasons Resort in Punta Mita, Mexico has made a point of including your furry child in your vacation by creating a pet program called Best Friend’s Paradise to make every pooch feel pampered. “We are delighted to welcome our four-legged friends to paradise with an exciting pet program that offers a mix of convenience and pleasure for guests who love to travel with their pets,” said John O’Sullivan, General Manager Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita. “With our new pet program, even dogs can experience the best of Punta Mita, from surfing and fresh tacos to indulgent pedicures and relaxing siestas.” Related: Go on a Vacation That Helps Pets in Need Prior to arrival, a pet concierge will make sure that your dog has everything they need to make their stay a delightful one. Dogs will receive a welcome kit which includes treats, toys, a water bowl and a bed to make sure they have a good night’s rest (plus, this means you don’t have to bring your own – more room for bikinis!) Forget to bring your own kibble or dog food? The Four Season’s has got you covered in this department, too! If you’re scarfing down five-star-quality cuisine, why should you dog settle for anything less if they’re vacation?! Guests can treats their four-legged friends to food from the pet dining menu which features peanut cupcake and whole wheat pumpkin cookie, or you can opt for something heartier such as a 4 oz. tenderloin and seared Angus meatloaf with steamed asparagus. Related: Tips For Taking Your Cat on Vacation With You The Four Seasons also has plenty of programs which include your dog such as yoga classes and stand-up paddle boarding and surfing lessons in the Bay of Banderas aptly named “Paws Up.” You can also have your dog experience a relaxing in-room pet massage or have them looking posh by giving them a puppy pedicure. Other pet amenities include doggy beach cabanas and pet pools (in case your dog is mortified by the ocean waves). For a little extra, you can also have services such as pet walking and pet sitting. Of course, none of these awesome amenities are free – a supplemental fee of $100 per night per pet guest is added on your bill. If you think about it, that’s still less than the price of a human person in this particular resort. But if your human company bores you or just can’t seem to fit with your lifestyle, this pet program ensures both you and your dog will have the best vacation ever – no other persons needed. [ Source: ModernDogMagazine ]

How Often Should I Clean My Bird's Cage?

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

Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Cats: The Basics

Like humans, cats can develop a vitamin B12 deficiency. This water-soluble vitamin is needed for a variety of functions, affecting everything from their digestion to cognitive function, so it’s important to address a deficiency in your pet.Here’s some information on the symptoms and causes of vitamin B12 deficiency, along with what you can do to address it.

AI Could Match You with a New Furry Friend Based on Personality

In a cutting-edge study, scientists specializing in canine behavior have used artificial intelligence to predict dog personality types. A multi-disciplinary research team has developed an AI algorithm that simplifies the painstaking process of evaluating canine personalities.Understanding a dog’s temperament is key not only for pet owners but also for training agencies and professionals working with working dogs. The study, which introduces a brand-new method of predicting and categorizing dog personalities, is published in the eminent journal Scientific Reports. The team that developed the algorithm hopes that it will more quickly and accurately evaluate which dogs are better suited for long-term careers, such as assisting people with disabilities and helping law enforcement. This new approach to predicting dog personalities could also be used to match owners with a new furry best friend. The new AI algorithm can help shelters place dogs in the right homes, thus reducing the number of dogs returned for not being the right fit for their adoptive families.Before this algorithm, canine behavioral experts used questionnaires and statistical analysis to determine a dog’s personality.  The AI algorithm uses data from almost 8,000 responses to the commonly used Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ). The C-BARQ questionnaire has been the top resource for evaluating working dogs in the past two decades. “C-BARQ is highly effective, but many of its questions are also subjective,” said James Serpell, a professor of ethics and animal welfare emeritus at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. “By clustering data from thousands of surveys, we can adjust for outlying responses inherent to subjective survey questions in categories such as dog rivalry and stranger-related fear.”The team’s new AI algorithm gathers the responses to C-BARQ questions into five main categories that essentially form the digital personality of a dog. The results showed five distinctive personality types among domestic dogs, including excitable/attached, anxious/fearful, reactive/assertive, aloof/predatory, and calm/agreeable.The study was conducted over two years by a multi-disciplinary research team consisting of Dr Mohammad Amirhosseini of the University of East London and Professor James Serpell of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. The research was sponsored by Dogvatar, a Miami, Florida-based canine technology startup.“This innovative AI-based methodology holds promise for revolutionizing the selection and training of dogs for specific roles, both for working and non-working,” said Dr Amirhosseini. Almost 50 percent of people who surrender their dogs to animal shelters in the USA say that behavioral problems are a contributing factor, and nearly a quarter say that those problems are the main reason for giving up their dog. More research is needed to understand the nuances of canine personalities. However, researchers hope to promote strong bonds between people and their dogs by designing effective training programs and customized dog-owner interactions. According to researchers, these findings could serve as a foundation to explore personality matching between dogs and their owners and how that might improve the quality of their relationship.Dogvatar and the research team plan to conduct further research into potential uses for their dog personality testing algorithm.“This has been a really exciting breakthrough for us,” said Dogvatar CEO Piya Pettigrew. “This algorithm could greatly improve efficiency in working dog training and placement process and could help reduce the number of companion dogs brought back to shelters for not being compatible. It’s a win for both dogs and the people they serve.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why is My Cat Shedding in October?

The fall colours are out on full display, and temperatures are starting to dip, but for many cat parents, this time of year introduces another interesting change – their cats are starting to shed much more than usual. But if you’re suddenly noticing a trail of fur around your house, you have a few questions, including: Why is my cat shedding in October? Is it normal for a cat to shed more during the fall season? When should I be worried about my cat’s shedding? Don’t worry. We have you covered! This blog post will discuss seasonal shedding and how it may affect your cat. Plus, we have assembled a list of tips and tricks to help you deal with the increased shedding during fall, ranging from how to help your cat stay comfortable to keeping your house clean (or as clean as can be expected). Let’s dive in… Why Do Cats Shed? Whether you are a first-time cat owner experiencing shedding for the first time or a lifelong cat lover who simply hasn’t explored the reason why our cats shed – let’s talk about why this occurs. After all, isn’t losing hair a sign of illness or disease in humans? Shedding is a natural process in animals like cats where dead or damaged hair falls loose. This is essential for your cat’s skin and coat health. The amount of hair your cat sheds will depend on several factors, including the breed, age, overall health, and the time of year. That’s right, the time of year does have an impact on the shedding cycle…Is it Normal for Cats to Shed in the Fall? There are two times each year when you may notice an increase in hair collecting around your house. Commonly referred to as “shedding season,” this heavy shedding activity falls in the spring and the fall as your cat’s coat adapts to the change in temperature. The heavy winter coat is shed in the spring to make way for a lighter summer coat. Then, the reverse happens in the fall as they set themselves up for the best chance of survival during the cold of winter. Check the temperature – if it’s starting to drop and there are colder days ahead, you can expect to see the shedding activity pick up in the coming days.

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. 

The Unseen Threat: Dangers of Secondhand Smoke for Your Pet

Most people are well aware of the dangers of smoking. They understand what smoking does to their bodies and know the potential health risks of lighting up a cigarette. But did you know that exposure to secondhand smoke may have serious health consequences for your pets?It’s no secret that smoking is bad for people. In the United States, between 80% to 90% of lung cancer deaths are linked to cigarette smoking. Secondhand smoking is also linked with an increased risk of other forms of cancer, such as breast and colorectal cancer, heart and respiratory disease.Studies have shown that more than 50% of bladder cancer cases in humans are caused by cigarette smoking. A recent study involving Scottish terriers found a link between cigarette smoke exposure and bladder cancer. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in dogs, and many pooches are diagnosed with some form of this terrible disease. Although many factors may predispose a pet to cancer, research shows that passive smoking is a main danger.Scientists from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Purdue University discovered that Scottish terriers who were exposed to secondhand smoke at home were six times more likely to develop bladder cancer than those who were not routinely exposed to smoke.Passive smoking is also linked with nasal cancer in dogs. This type of cancer is often diagnosed in long-nosed breeds such as collies, greyhounds, and borzois. The increased surface area in their nasal canals traps inhaled particles, allowing carcinogens from tobacco smoke to accumulate in the nasal mucus. As a result, long-nosed dogs are at a greater risk of developing tumors in their snouts. On the other hand, brachycephalic or short-nosed dog breeds, such as pugs and French bulldogs, are more likely to develop lung cancer. Their short noses aren’t as effective at trapping inhaled particles and allow more carcinogens to reach the lungs.Being exposed to smoke increases the risk that your dog will develop cancer, but that’s not all. Pooches that live with smokers are more likely to develop asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory problems.Dogs aren’t the only pets to suffer the consequences of inhaling secondhand smoke on a daily basis. Cats, birds, and small critters like guinea pigs and rabbits are also at risk.Cats that live with smokers are more likely to develop asthma and lung cancer. Felines that inhale secondhand smoke regularly also have a higher incidence of malignant lymphoma.  Studies have found higher nicotine concentrations in the hair of cats living with smokers than those living in smoke-free homes. The same is true for dogs living with smokers, no matter whether their owners smoked inside or outside. Cats are famous for being fastidious groomers, but licking the fur puts them at risk of ingesting even more toxic particles from secondhand smoke than simply inhaling them. Felines that groom excessively can develop oral tumors from licking toxic particles off their fur.Secondhand smoke alone isn't responsible for all health problems seen in cats and dogs. Diet, genetics, lifestyle, and exposure to other potentially toxic substances in the environment combined affect the pet’s overall health.Owners concerned with the well-being of their four-legged companions should be more aware of the air quality in their homes and make necessary lifestyle changes.Choosing to smoke outside can minimize some risks associated with exposure to secondhand smoke. Improving ventilation, opening the windows, and using air filters can help too. However, it’s important to note that even a low exposure to secondhand smoke can be harmful to your four-legged companion.Quitting smoking is hard, but knowing how secondhand smoke affects your pet’s health may motivate you to put down that cigarette once and for all!Join the PetGuiJoin the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Do I Do If My Dog Eats Wild Mushrooms?

If you hike or adventure with your dog, you have likely encountered wild mushrooms during your travels – especially now that we are entering the autumn season. But here’s the problem: they’re not always safe for our furry friends. As dog parents, it’s our responsibility to learn about the dangers that wild mushrooms may pose to our dogs and how to keep them safe. In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about wild mushrooms, including how they could spell trouble for your dog and what you should do if your pup decides to chow down one of these potentially toxic fungi. Recognizing the signs of mushroom toxicity and knowing what steps to act promptly could make all the difference. So, let’s dive into the world of wild mushrooms and get you prepared to protect your canine companion. Can Mushrooms Harm a Dog? There has been a lot of talk recently about the benefits of medicinal mushrooms for both humans and pets. While studies and research are still being conducted to fully understand the impact mushrooms can have as a supplement or alternative treatment option, it’s clear that some fungi can be incredibly helpful. Still, there are also a few that are highly toxic both to us and our furry friends. The challenge when discussing wild mushrooms is that most dog parents aren’t foraging experts with a knowledge of which mushrooms are edible and which are not – and our dogs certainly aren’t educated on the topic! If you are out hiking and your dog discovers a mushroom on the side of the trail, you likely aren’t going to know in advance whether it’s toxic or not. In fact, if you have a high-energy dog like we do with our pup Lucifer, you may not even have the opportunity to see the mushroom enough to identify it before it has been ingested. This means leaving the possibility that it could be a toxic variety up to chance. For this reason, it’s safer to steer clear of wild mushrooms entirely. Does this mean that your grocery store mushrooms are dangerous? No. If you have purchased mushrooms to cook up for dinner and you want to share one with your dog, they are safe. They are healthiest when offered raw, but if you do cook them, ensure they are unseasoned, as the seasoning could upset your dog’s stomach. They can also be found in some foods, treats, supplements, and bone broth products. What Does Mushroom Toxicity Look Like in Dogs? While we have established that allowing your dog to eat wild mushrooms is unsafe, the hard truth is that we can’t always control the situation. Simply looking away for a matter of seconds may be all it takes for your dog to find and grab a mushroom on the side of the road, on a trail, or even in your backyard. For this reason, we must ensure that we are familiar with the signs of mushroom toxicity to recognize the problem and react as quickly as possible. There are four categories of toxic mushrooms: GastrointestinalMushrooms in this category primarily impact your dog’s digestive system. They act quickly, showing signs in as little as 15 minutes after ingestion. These are the most common signs your dog has ingested a gastrointestinal mushroom: Excessive drooling Upset stomach Abdominal pain Vomiting Diarrhea NeurotoxicThese mushrooms cause neurological symptoms and, if not addressed quickly, can often be fatal. Signs often show approximately 30 to 90 minutes after ingestion. The most common signs that your dog has eaten a neurotoxic mushroom include: Digestive upset Weakness Agitation or anxiety Loss of coordination Unsteady gateAppearing confused or disoriented Tremors Seizures HepatotoxicThese mushrooms are significantly more dangerous than the first two categories. They are slower acting, with symptoms appearing as long as 12 hours after eating the mushroom. They begin by upsetting the digestive system and may be initially mistaken for a gastrointestinal mushroom. However, after time, they will start to impact the function of your dog’s liver, leading potentially to liver failure and death if not addressed. Nephrotoxic Finally, this category is very similar to hepatotoxic mushrooms in that it begins as a digestive upset. If unaddressed, these mushrooms can cause kidney failure or acute renal damage. What Do I Do if My Dog Ate a Wild Mushroom? If you notice any of the above symptoms of mushroom toxicity in your dog, contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency clinic as soon as possible. If there are multiple mushrooms in the area and you can take a sample for identification, it may help provide valuable insight. While no treatment can instantly fix the toxicity, your veterinarian can provide your pup with supportive care. This will begin with inducing vomiting and/or giving your dog activated charcoal to remove or cancel out the poison and prevent further damage. The vet will monitor your dog while providing supportive care to address symptoms or complications of the toxicity, such as IV fluids to prevent dehydration and anti-nausea medications to settle digestive problems. This takes the unnecessary strain off the body, significantly boosting your dog’s chance of survival.

Finally Home Retirement Home: A Place Where All Senior Dogs Are Loved

In a world in which the adoption rate for senior dogs is lower than for all other age groups combined, we need more people like Laurie Dorr. In 2019, Dorr and her husband founded Finally Home Senior Dog Rescue and Retirement Home to provide a loving forever home to abandoned senior dogs.Located in North Yarmouth, Main, Dorr’s five-acre estate is currently home to 15 grey-muzzled seniors. This amazing non-profit organization is run by Dorr and her husband with the help of a handful of volunteers and supporters all of whom have the same goal - to make old dogs feel loved till the end. Dorr adopts senior dogs that need homes, mostly from shelters or older people moving into nursing homes. “Our dogs come mainly from owners here in Maine who can no longer care for their pups due to unforeseen circumstances,” said Dorr to Newsweek. The thing that sets Finally Home apart from other non-profit rescue organizations is that it doesn’t adopt out any of its dogs, but it gives them their own retirement home. “The dogs are adopted into our home, and remain here until it is their time to pass on,” explained Dorr. “We provide them with excellent veterinary care, food, treats, bedding, and everything else they so desperately need, including our love and the love of all awesome friends and volunteers who help to keep them happy and healthy.”However, Dorr’s noble work on behalf of senior dogs doesn’t end there. She has set up two funds named after Teddy and Sierra, two very special dogs who have died. These funds are there to help dog owners in need (who are below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines) and can’t pay for their older dog’s medical bills. “Most people want puppies or younger dogs,” said Dorr. “Senior dogs often have been passed around many times and are often overlooked at shelters. That’s why I’m focusing on seniors.” According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 3.1 million dogs end up in shelters across the U.S. every year. Around 390,000 shelter dogs are euthanized each year.Evidence showed that older cats and dogs are particularly at risk for euthanasia at shelters because people are less likely to adopt a senior pooch. Sadly, older dogs are the last ones to get adopted and have a 25% adoption rate, compared to the 60% adoption rate of puppies and younger dogs. Dorr, who has always been a dog lover, said that she likes all dogs, but has a soft spot for those that have been around for a while. Taking care of so many senior dogs is time-consuming, even for a retiree, but Dorr, along with her friends and selfless volunteers, is doing everything to keep her dogs happy.“We take the dogs for car rides and to local trails and parks, and recently took the dogs to Range Pond State Park for some fun in the water,” Dorr said. “The dogs loved the beach and wooded trails and had some special snacks there as well.” The dogs’ day on the beach was captured in heartwarming footage that was posted on Finally Home's Facebook page.“I have always loved animals and wanted to help senior dogs by taking them in if needed, and caring for them. It was one of those things where I said ‘one day’ or ‘someday’ I will do it. Finally, I decided that I had to do it while I was still young and healthy enough, so I would not miss out on my dream. I am so glad that I decided to do this.”

What Should I Do If My Dog is Afraid of Nail Trims?

The dreaded nail clippers – a source of stress and occasional doggy drama in our home as well as for many dog parents. You see, our youngest pup, Lucifer, and I have been on quite the journey to conquer his fear of nail trimming. If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation, you know the struggle all too well!But fear not, because in this article, I’m sharing our personal tale of progress and a toolkit of tips we’ve picked up along the way to help overcome your dog’s fear of nail clipping.So, let’s swap nail-trimming anxiety for confidence and cooperation, one paw at a time.Why Does My Dog Hate Nail Trims?The first step to overcoming a fear of nail trims is understanding why the sight of nail clippers is a source of anxiety for your dog. After all, the clippers themselves aren’t frightening or intimidating.For many dogs, the fear of having their nails cut is rooted in a desire to protect their paws. This is a survival instinct, as they need their paws to survive in the wild, both to escape predators and be able to catch food. They haven’t been taught that the process of having their nails cut or their paws handled isn’t going to cause harm.If your dog was previously okay with having their nails trimmed and suddenly changes their mind and lashes out when you try, this is a sign of trouble. Have you recently cut your dog`s nail and accidentally nicked the quick of the nail? If so, your dog may associate the experience with the pain and discomfort they felt at that moment.This could also indicate that your dog feels pain in their leg or paw. Watch for other signs of distress or discomfort, like lameness, limping, or excessively licking the area. If you suspect your dog is in pain or if your dog has shown a behavior change that you can’t otherwise explain, contact your veterinarian. They can run the tests necessary to help diagnose the problem and recommend ways to provide effective pain relief.For us, with Lucifer, we are overcoming a reaction due to previous pain. He suffered injuries to his front paws before he was rescued and adopted out to us as a puppy. While we have worked with specialists to help him heal and move on from these injuries, he is still more protective of his paws and dislikes having them handled. What Happens if You Wait Too Long to Cut Dog Nails?Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed and cared for is an integral part of grooming. How often you need to trim their nails will vary, depending on their breed, age, and lifestyle. Some dogs will naturally wear down their nails from walking and running on rough surfaces, as they would in the wild, while others don’t engage in these activities frequently enough to keep up with nail growth.When a dog’s nails become overgrown, they interfere with their ability to stand and walk properly, reducing traction and potentially causing injuries in their feet and tendons. This is because the nails contact the floor before their paw pads. Over time, this can also lead to long-term injuries, deformities in the paw or leg, or arthritis. This can also cause older dogs to slip and fall due to losing traction and unsteadiness on their feet.

Half of Americans Believe Pets Steal the Spotlight During Holidays

A survey revealed that nearly half of Americans (43%) think their loved ones are more excited to see their pets on the holidays than they are to see them. This survey involved 2,000 cat and dog owners and was conducted by One Poll on behalf of Nulo. According to results, 32% of surveyed owners admit they are more delighted to see a friend’s or family member’s pet than they are to see them. Surprisingly, 20% of dog owners think their pets love the holiday season more than they do.What’s not so surprising, is that almost half of respondents (48%) do something special for their pet during the happiest time of year. This includes buying custom ornaments or decorations (64%), dressing their pets in holiday clothing or pajamas (60%), getting their pet their own Christmas tree (49%), and stocking (47%).Half of pet owners like to give their four-legged companions extra treats during the holiday season, and 45% admit they dole out more treats to their pets at Christmas than during any other time of the year. In addition to extra treats, more than two-thirds of pets are likely to be treated with a special holiday meal. This survey also found that the majority of pet parents believe that their pets enjoy the hustle and bustle of holidays and are looking forward to the influx of visitors during the holiday season. Begging for attention, welcoming guests, and playing with a new holiday toy are some of the ways owners know that their pets are in the festive mood.Nearly half of responders give their pets gifts for Christmas. Those owners, on average, spend more than $100 on three gifts for their pets.Most owners decide to gift their pet toys (61%), clothes (59%), and treats (56%).Interestingly, this survey also looked at which family members are the most likely to spoil the pet. The results showed that the owner’s brother is the most likely to buy a present for the pet, followed by the owner’s parents. Surprisingly, 36% of grandfathers buy gifts for their four-legged grandchildren, compared to 34% of grandmothers. “Healthy treats and special occasion meals are a great way to involve your dog or cat in fun holiday moments - and can add a nutritional boost as a bonus,” said Heather Mendoza, Nulo’s Director of Research & Development, according to New York Post. It’s great to see that pet owners are offering their pets special meals that mimic their own holiday feasts. The holiday season provides the opportunity for quality time and special experiences with our families, including finding more ways to show love and affection to our furballs, she added.In addition to gifts, more cuddles, and treats, pets are also spoiled more during the holiday season by having their special person at home with them. Nearly half of respondents admit to going on more walks and adventures with their pets during the holidays. Interestingly, 40% of owners report that their pets also get to sleep more.Considering that almost all American pet owners consider their pets a part of the family, it’s no surprise that pets partake in holiday traditions. The majority of owners bring their pets to celebrations at other people’s homes. Pets are also involved in “opening the presents” and even go to meet the Santa. “Results showed that 40% of respondents believe Christmas is their pet’s favorite holiday - far ahead of the second favorite (New Year’s Day) at 19%,” said Mendoza. And if you still haven’t found a perfect gift for your pet, don’t despair! Check out our detailed holiday gift guide for cats and dogs to find the best holiday present for your four-legged companion. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Scientists Found a New Type of Training that Makes Dogs Better Behaved

Training a dog can seem intimidating, and doesn’t always yield the expected results. Luckily for all dog owners out there, a new study has found another way to train your four-legged companion. Scientists at Aberystwyth University, located in Wales, United Kingdom, have discovered that scent training could improve pet dogs' behavior. The study shows that pet dogs trained to detect scents have a better mental ability and capacity to carry out certain tasks.Previous research only compared highly trained working dogs, like assistance dogs or search and rescue dogs, with untrained pet dogs. Now, for the first time, the researchers have tested the effects of scent training on two groups of untrained dogs. A research team from Aberystwyth University led the study in collaboration with Emma Stoker, owner of Puppy Plus, a dog training company based in Newton, Wales.The study involved 40 dogs of varying degrees of training, whose owners were asked to fill out a questionnaire with basic information about their pet. Researchers gave the dogs two tasks, both requiring impulse control. In the first test, called the “detour task”, the dogs needed to navigate a transparent barrier to get food. The second “A not B task”, tested the dogs’ ability to switch their choice from one pot to another, depending on where food was placed. Researchers separated the dogs into two groups to see whether their ability to detect scents would improve their cognitive ability. The dogs in the first group were given the “detour task” and had to navigate around a transparent barrier to get a treat. In the second group, the researchers said “Look” to the dog to get its attention and then showed it a treat before hiding it under a pot. Dogs in the second group underwent scent training, separated into three phases - familiarization, training, and test phase. In the first phase, only one pot was used. In the training phase, two pots were used, and in the final, test phase, three pots were used.Pate scent was rubbed on all pots to make it harder for the dogs to sniff out where the treat was hidden. If the dog didn’t respond within 20 seconds of being released to find the treat, or if it picked the wrong pot, the dog was shown the treat but wasn’t rewarded. Researchers discovered that dogs who received scent training performed the tasks more efficiently than those who weren’t trained. The study also showed that scent training improved dogs’ inhibitory control and helped them focus on completing a specific task. What’s important for dog owners to know is that poor impulse control is believed to be the main cause of a lot of unwanted behaviors in dogs, such as house soiling and destructive behavior. This new study suggests that scent training could help owners improve their dogs’ behavior. Dr. Sarah Dalesman, the co-author of the study, said: “This research shows that dogs that train primarily in scent work have stronger inhibitory control, suggesting that this training can have a positive effect on their behavior.”“Scent training is offered by a lot of dog trainers, and easy to practice at home. It might offer a great way for owners to improve their pets’ behavior, and we’re aiming to test this theory in future studies.”If scent training isn’t compatible with the way your pup learns, you can try agility or puzzle training. Puzzle training provides mental and physical stimulation and can come in handy when a dog needs to stay home alone or confined. Agility training is another option. Agility is a sport in which you direct your dog through a pre-set obstacle course allowing them to gain problem-solving skills. Try different training activities with your dog to find out what you and your pooch enjoy doing together the most.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

New Study Searches for the Secret Connection Between ‘Gifted’ Dogs

As dog parents, we all want to believe that our dog is the smartest, most incredible, most amazing dog out there. Right? But there is a select group of dogs whose talent and intelligence stand out above the rest. What makes these dogs so bright? That’s what a new study hopes to understand… Known as “Gifted Word Learner” (GWL) Dogs, these dogs display an impressive vocabulary by learning the names of dozens of their toys, with some learning as many as 125 toys by name! Interested in better understanding this phenomenon and what makes these dogs so naturally gifted, researchers at Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary set out to identify any commonalities between these pups. Their recent study, published in Scientific Reports on December 14, included 41 GWL dogs from nine countries: the US, the UK, Canada, Brazil, Norway, Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, and Hungary. They put out a call for ‘gifted’ dogs, asking owners to complete and submit a self-assessment following their detailed instructions and send the results in a video. Dogs that passed that phase were then given an online vocabulary assessment test to better assess their language skills. The owners were also given a questionnaire to provide a better understanding of each dog’s life experience. “In the questionnaire, we asked the owners about their dog’s life experience, their own experience in raising and training dogs, and about the process by which the dog came to learn the names of his/her toys,” explained Dr. Andrea Sommese, study co-author. Researchers discovered some interesting connections between the GWL dogs using all this information.

Jolly Pets’ Annual “#WeGiveaJolly” Campaign Helps Shelter Dogs

Jolly Pets is the brand behind innovative, durable, and unique pet toys that are made entirely by domestic manufacturers – and every holiday season, they make an effort to spread joy, kindness, and love to all the pooches in need. This season, collaborating with 19 influencer ambassadors, they are once again heading their # WeGiveaJolly charitable campaign. Starting from November 28th until December 25th, Jolly Pets will donate a high-quality toy for every single purchase made. The toys will go to rescue dogs at 19 animal shelters in the USA, each represented by the influencer ambassadors, as announced by the marketing director of Jolly Pets, Louisa Casto. "The holiday season is a time for giving, and what better way to make a difference in the lives of shelter dogs than through the power of play and companionship. Jolly Pets understands the importance of providing joy and comfort to dogs awaiting their forever homes, and # WeGiveaJolly exemplifies our commitment to this cause," said Casto. "We believe that every dog deserves love, care, and happiness regardless of their circumstances. That's why we're excited to kick off our annual # WeGiveaJolly campaign, collaborating with compassionate ambassadors and animal shelters to make a real difference in a dog's life."This campaign will bring true holiday cheer across the country, especially to rescue dogs who are in dire need of some love and compassion.The ambassadors, shelters, and locations are as follows:@guidingeyesfortheblind for Guiding Eyes for the Blind, Yorktown Heights, NY@goodasgoldens for Canine Companions, Sacramento, CA@Jack_the_Sleeper for Fort Worth North Animal Care and Adoption Campus, Haslet, TX@moosethegoldenretriever for Rescue Village, Russell Twp., OH@cheriethesurfdog for Frenchies United Rescue, Claremont, CA@incredibullstella for Animal Help Alliance, Las Vegas, NV@iheartpgracie for Animal Care Centers of NYC, New York, NY@2rockstarlabs for Crossed Paws Animal Shelter, Woodsfield, OH@koda.laredo for Hoosier Bulldog Rescue, Indianapolis, IN@posies_pocketful_of_praise for Pickens Humane Society, Liberty, SC@ziggy_loving_life for Home Fur Good Animal Rescue, Phoenix, AR@maligator_apollo for PAWS Chicago, Chicago, IL@remingtonpup for Great Pyrenees Rescue Society, Spring, TX@gvl_golden_girls for Dog Squad, Greer, SC@enzo.and.bella for Friends of Detroit Animal Care & Control, Northville, MI@benny.n.lola for Humane Society Silicon Valley, Milpitas, CA@leuleu_theblue for the Pet Alliance Sanford Shelter, Orlando, FL@the.hero.dogs for Hot Mess Pooches, Homer, IL@fosterkittenhq for The Animal Welfare League of Arlington, Arlington, VA"By participating in Jolly Pets # WeGiveaJolly campaign, our customers are not only providing joy to their own pets but also extending that joy to shelter dogs waiting for a loving home. It's a small act of kindness that can profoundly impact these dogs' lives," Casto said. "We encourage using the hashtag # WeGiveaJolly on social media to encourage friends and family to participate in this heartwarming initiative."To learn more about the # WeGiveaJolly campaign and to shop for Jolly Pets' durable and innovative pet toys, visit  https://jollypets.com/pages/wegiveajolly-annual-toy-drive.

This Farm Offers Cuddle Sessions With A Pack Of Adorable Goldens

For decades,  Golden Retrievers have been one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States – heck, in the world. It’s no secret that Goldens are simply everyone’s favorite! Cute, goofy, and cuddly, these dogs are such a wonder and so much fun to be around. And now, thanks to Golden Dog Farm from Jeffersonville, Vermont, the fans of this famed breed can enjoy a very special experience centered around these adorable furballs.This family-run farm launched a special Golden Retriever Experience – a one-hour session allows guests to enjoy refreshments such as cider and snacks, all in the company of a huge group of cuddly golden retrievers called “happy”. The session is usually called the “happy hour” just because of this, and allows anyone to immerse themselves in the company of “at least '' 10 dogs Umm, sign me up for any activity that includes dogs, especially ten of ‘em! The Golden Dog Farm is run by Doug and Becca Worple and in an interview with  USA TODAY, the couple happily exclaimed that the bookings for the experience sold out incredibly quickly. It was certainly not what they expected earlier this year when they came up with the idea and started it all. Not at all surprisingly, it was COVID that caused the idea to come to fruition. During the height of the virus rampage, Doug Worple’s job, based at a travel-oriented global digital advertising agency, suddenly experienced a major hiccup. Trying to get a bearing at this trying time, Doug said he “used the moment to take a step back and consider what was next.” And, together with his partner Becca Worple – herself a photographer and a media representative at a radio station – Doug decided it was best to sell their home in Cincinnati, Ohio, in hopes of moving to a family cottage in Ontario. It was a time of big changes."Then the border closed," Doug Worple said. "Now we're two weeks out of closing on our house and didn't know where to go, so we decided to buy an RV and traveled to 35 different states, 17,000 miles in the RV with two of the dogs."And during this incredible and life-changing adventure, the couple decided to start a golden retriever-based business, and to finally settle in beautiful Vermont. "We've just always loved goldens and always wanted to have a lot of goldens," Worple said. "With what I was doing, I saw the power of influencers and social media and all that and I joked we need to have an Instagram farm full of golden retrievers, and soon we started looking at what that might look like."And once they arrived at Jeffersonville, Vermont, a sign they were looking for appeared – and they were left speechless. While driving through town, they suddenly spotted a truck full of golden retrievers, driven by Dana Menne of Butternut Goldens. It was a match made in heaven. "(Becca told me), 'If God were to send to me a sign we needed to move someplace, it would be a truckload of goldens,'" Doug Worple said.In no time, their idea about a golden retriever “happy hour” began to take some serious shape. And especially thanks to the Butternut Goldens.  "Collectively both of us wanted to do something like this but they didn't have a place to do it and we didn't have enough goldens," Doug Worple said. "But together we could make it happen."At the moment, their “happy hours” are sold out until Dec. 17, but the Worples have plans to extend the dates to April, giving everyone a chance to enjoy this experience. The one-hour experience runs on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and costs $75 for adults and $50 for children."People are so happy when they're here, they have this childlike joy on their faces," Worple said. "People cry because they're so happy."What about you? Would you enjoy an hour cuddling with golden retrievers?

More And More Pets Are Having Allergies, Trupanion Reports

The time when spring blooms and summer comes to the doorstep is an idyllic period for most, but a lot of people dread this time of the year because of seasonal allergies that cause s lot of sneezing, headaches, and all-around discomfort. Now, it seems, it’s not just us humans that can experience nasty spring allergies – data indicates that our four-legged best friends are also affected by them. Dogs, in particular, are very susceptible to  spring allergies and are increasingly treated for their symptoms, such as itchy skin.Are All Dogs At Risk for Spring Allergies?It is important to be aware that the trees and flowers that bloom in spring can be a source of allergies for your pet. Not only are spring allergies very uncomfortable for dogs, but they can potentially lead to many secondary issues, the most dangerous of which is a skin infection.And if you think that chances for a spring allergy affecting your dog are low, consider a recent report issued by the pet insurance company Trupanion. They claim that there was a 45% increase in allergy claims for insured pets over the course of four years since 2019. This means that allergies are on the rise, both for pets and their owners. In fact, as  Axios reports, according to the insurer Nationwide, spring allergies are at the top of the list of health conditions that end in vet visits. Another key fact is related to allergy drugs. Since two of the major allergy drugs were released in 2013 and 2018, more than 20 million dogs have been treated by them, in an effort to battle spring allergy effects. Of course, if you suspect that your pet is suffering from a spring allergy, it is key to visit your vet as soon as possible. Depending on the effects, your vet can prescribe topical, injectable, or chewable treatments that help reduce  itchiness and other issues. And, considering that such allergies are seasonal, be ready for them with the arrival of spring and the blooming of trees. Learn to spot the symptoms such as itchiness, and to react quickly!

Top stories

Tips For Taking Your Cat On Vacation With You

RSPCA Blames Film and Social Media for Overcrowding in Shelters

Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?

Top stories

Tips For Taking Your Cat On Vacation With You

Related articles