Adventures In Dog Sitting: Mickey Makeover! (Part 3)

by Amy Tokic

Published: March 15th, 2015

adventures in dog sitting mickey makeover part 3

Enough is enough! Mickey is stinking up the place and I need to give him a grooming he’ll never forget. The pups tell their side of the squeaky clean events that unfolded.

Mickey definitely belongs to a guy. Some dead giveaways:

He stinks like a man dog
His only sweater is a) ugly; and b) hasn’t been washed since the dog was born.
He farts while sitting on my lap, ass positioned in direct line of fire to my face.
He snores like a fleet of fighter jets taking off.

I’ve had enough of this. This is on top of being in a constant state of panic because I’m a neat freak, and everything Mickey touches is soon covered in:

White Fur
Poop
Pee

My delicate sense of smell can’t take his doggy man stinky anymore.

Dude, it’s time for a bath.

Now, before Mickey hits the tub, I text to ask Greg if this is okay and how he likes the tub. Greg doesn’t mind, but he’s also not sure what Mickey will be like during his spa day. I take it to mean that this odorous flower has never had a proper doggy scrub-down in his life. I’m going to make it a good one. I’m going in with my toughest arsenal – Madra Mor Mud Treatment. I’m using Lavender, because I love the smell (it’s calming and I could use some more of that right now) and this formula is anti-shedding. Mickey could stand to lose a little less hair.

Again, I’m turning it over to the dogs for their version of how things really went down.

Mickey says:

Pre-Bath:

Okay, I’m turning on the charm… but Amy lady is not warming up to me. I’ve tried everything: Peeing and pooping on the floor; crying to be let up on the bed at 3 a.m.; running away from her so she thinks I’m playing hard to get when she tries to put on my leash; helping Oscar eat his food (after all, I don’t want the lady to get mad at him when he hasn’t finished his dinner). Seriously, I’ve tried it all. And now, she wants to give me something called a bath. What is this thing? Can I eat it? Can I pee on it? If it falls into one of those two categories, I can’t wait to meet it!

Bath time:

I had high hopes for this bath – I saw Amy lady take a jar of peanut butter into the strange-smelling room. That’s a good sign… or so I thought. I knew something wasn’t right when I heard water running and she picked me up. That’s never a good sign!

GAH! I don’t want to be wet! I want to be dry and comfortable in my fort! Yes, there’s peanut butter on the rim of this white, slippery prison, but I don’t trust her. Still, I don’t want to anger her, so I’ll just lick the PB while she lathers me in the foul-smelling goop.

I have to admit, I kinda like the massage and rubdown this bath comes with. But I’m not going to let her see my enjoyment. No – I’m going to stare at her with huge, sorrowful eyes until she takes pity on me and lets me out of this oval puzzle of no escape (although I have tried to find a way out, I have failed at every turn… confound the crafty human!).

What’s this?!? More water?!? And just when I was getting used to the goop. Wait… what’s that sucking noise? FOR THE LOVE OF SWEET POTATO JERKY – THIS WHIRLPOOL GOING TO SUCK ME DOWN INTO THE BOWELS OF NO RETURN! OSCAR, RUN… SAVE YOURSELF!

Post-Bath:

False alarm. All is well. It turns out that I wasn’t being sucked down the drain… it was just all that dirty water. Before I got a chance to shake my money maker and return the wet favor, the lady patted me down with a towel (don’t worry, I still got her with some leftover bath remnants). To add insult to injury, she says she’s not done with me. A few spritzes of doggy cologne, and it’s off for a photo shoot. Today, I’ll be modeling a pink, frilly tutu and matching sparkly headband.

The humiliation never ceases. Man, I hope these pictures never get out! Even if they don’t, you can be sure I’ll be leaving the bathmaster a stinky little present tonight. Try to give it a bath, Amy!

Oscar says:

You may smell better, but I’m still going to need you to keep your distance. However, when you’re sleeping, I will now go in for a closer butt sniff. I am partial to the aroma of lavender. It reminds me of my young days as a pup, bounding through the lavender fields of Tuscany. Ah, what a magical, effervescent and intoxicating time – to be youthful again. (Amy’s note: Oscar has never been to Tuscany. He just likes to give the impression that he’s much more sophisticated that he really is.)

Next up: It’s Mickey’s last day with us. What kind of lasting impression will he have made?

Amy Tokic

Amy Tokic, Editor of PetGuide.com, is a passionate animal lover and proud pet parent of Oscar, a Shih Tzu/Chihuahua cross, and Zed, a Japanese Chin. Her love of animals began in kindergarten, when she brought her stuffed dog Snoopy into class with her every day. Now, she writes about her adventures in pet ownership and tirelessly researches products, news and health related issues she can share with other animal enthusiasts. In her free time, Amy loves perusing used book and record stores, obsessing over the latest pet products available and chasing squirrels with wild abandon (a habit attributed to spending too much time with her pooches).

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Adventures In Dog Sitting: Meeting Mickey (Part 1)

Double the fun with double the dogs? Follow my doggy-sitting adventures, as Oscar and I host a new furry friend for an extended sleepover for the first time. For the past year or so, I’ve contemplated adding another dog to my little family. Right now, it’s just Oscar and I, and my puppy clock is ticking. At least three or four times a week, I’m cruising adopting sites, falling in love with every furry face I see. With each new listing I come across, the clock gets louder. Why haven’t I taken the plunge yet? There are a few roadblocks. I’m at the office during the day, and my position as Editor of PetGuide.com takes me away from home a few times a year. There’s the added expense, of course, and finding the right fit for my lifestyle. But the biggest obstacle has to be the fact that Oscar is anti-social towards other dogs. Related: Pet Sitter’s Guide For When Friends Are Watching Your Dog Oscar will do everything in his power to get away from other dogs. On leash or off, Oscar wants nothing to do with other pups. He’s not aggressive – in fact, he’s the total opposite. He’s always been timid around dogs. We’ve been to training, countless socialization classes, doggy daycare sessions and group dog walks, and nothing works. There are certain pooches he’s better around: usually those who are quiet and shy, small, or senior. And if the dog wants nothing to do with Oscar, that’s when he’ll make his move… sneaking up from behind for a quick butt sniff, until his target takes notice and Oscar quickly darts away. He’s the ultimate butt-sniff ninja! At first, I resolved myself to the fact that it was going to be a SHOC household (Single Human, One Canine). But I can’t get this second dog idea out of my head. There was only one thing to do: bring another dog into the mix for a test run. The opportunity presented itself in the form of a dog sitting favor. My friend and co-worker, Greg, was headed out of town on a business trip and needed someone to look after Mickey, his Mini Bulldog, for a few days. I jumped at the chance – here was the perfect chance to see how Oscar would perform in a real-life dog bonding environment. Related: 5 Important Tips For Hiring a Dog Sitter Meet & Greet

Adventures in Dog Sitting: So Long, Mickey (Part 4)

All good things must come to an end. Mickey takes his leave, but leaves behind a little something to remember him by! Mickey has been our house guest for four days, and now it’s time for his dad to come pick him up. I’m going to miss the little stinker… but not manly bathroom habits. He’s a lovely little derp and one can’t help but become attached to him. The house just won’t be the same without his snorts, snores and farts. Related: Let The Fun Begin Mickey says: Oscar and I are now bound together. No two dogs could be closer than me and my BFF. When he barks at an ominous baby carriage across the street, so do I. When he runs under the couch (I’m guessing, to hide from those evil baby carriages), I follow. And when he cowers in the corner of the couch (Damn you, you four-wheeled, diaper-smelling harbinger of hell!), I protect him with my body.

Adventures In Dog Sitting: Let The Fun Begin (Part 2)

Let’s hear it from the dogs! Mickey and Oscar tell their side of the story during our first few days together. It’s DDO-Day – dog drop-off day. The plan is for Greg to drop off Mickey on his way to the airport. A few directions as to feeding now that he’s sans three teeth, and Greg is Vegas bound. Poor Mickey! When he notices his dad has jumped ship, he looks a little down. But it’s nothing a belly rub won’t fix. Now, I don’t want to monopolize the whole story, so I thought that you’d get a better dog’s-eye-view from Mickey and Oscar. Oscar, as you’ll remember from Part 1 of the story, is a bit of a dog snob, and my intention with dog sitting Mickey was to open him up to the possibility of adding a furry brother or sister to our family unit. But enough from me – I’m going to let the dogs take it from here. Related: Adventures In Dog Sitting: Meeting Mickey (Part 1) Mickey Side: New house! New house! New house! Everything smells so different! And there’s another dog here. I’m not too sure about him… he won’t look at me and every time I try to get close to him, he takes off in the opposite direction. Not the warm welcome I was looking for, but I’ll win him over with my adorable, derpy personality. This new human, who answers to Amy, however, is a different story. Sure, I’ll let her pet me when I’m cuddled up by her side on the couch, but otherwise, I’m hiding under the table. It was really nice of her to build me a fort, complete with flannel blanket. I think I’ll hide out under here for the next few days when she’s walking around. Related: 5 Important Tips For Hiring a Dog Sitter My mouth is a bit sore from going to the dog probing place. Every time I go there, the guy with the gloves is always sticking his fingers somewhere he’s not welcome. But on the plus side, I get to eat a whole can of this yummy soft food from the can for a couple of days. I Hoover that stuff up before the new human Amy catches onto how good it is and steals it for her own dinner. Later on this evening, I’ll tell her how good it is by farting in her general direction. She’ll appreciate that. While new human Amy and the other dog are sleeping, I think I’ll redecorate my new home. It doesn’t smell like me yet. A couple of choice poops and a few puddles of pee will set things straight. I’ve got a busy night of exploring every room in the house and leaving my own personal touch. You’re welcome.

Up The Creek: Adventures In Canine Canoeing Part 3

Thunder storms, and wolf poop, and bears, oh my! Kevin Roberts and crew encounter rain, dangerous animals and… poop. It’s all in the name of fun and excitement for these outdoor adventurers. Day 2: Rain, Rain, Go Away! We wake up to an alarm clock of birds singing in the forest. As I unzip the tent, the dogs pour out. I walk them to the spot we have been using for their bathroom. We pick a spot far back from the cooking and eating area, and as far away from the water as well. Any solid mess they make, we scoop up and take away with us. The sky today is darker than yesterday… uh-oh. I assemble the stove and begin to cook up the oatmeal just as the first drops of rain begin to fall. We set a new record for packing camp and feeding the dogs, and just as we are about to load the canoe, the sky opens and the rain just POURS! Yep – it’s going to be a wet day. No worries – we are all fairly waterproof (like I said in a previous article, we have done this before) and the August weather is still warm. We begin to paddle down the lake, toward other campsites. The dogs don’t seem to enjoy the rain very much, but I would rather be a little damp than sunburned! We continue to paddle, keeping our spirits up and being optimistic. The weather report said sunny with a chance of clouds, so this can’t last! I hear thunder in the distance… I think. I justify that it can’t be thunder. It must be logging trucks. So, we keep paddling. We hear more thunder. Oh, maybe that one was thunder, but it’s far away. River begins to look concerned. Thunder is one of the only things that scares this dog – well, thunder, and having to face a hairbrush. She would rather chase off a bear than have her hair brushed. Crazy dog. We paddle closer to shore and check out the sky. The storm is going to blow across our path, so it should pass. We decide to paddle on a bit more and see if we can beat the storm. Coming to a narrow park in the lake, the thunder roars closer. The rain is pouring down in sheets and our visibility is quite impaired.

Vote For Your Fave Makeover in Wahl’s Dirty Dog Before & After Conte

Help rescue dogs find their furever homes! Make your vote count in Wahl’s Dirty Dog Before & After Contest, where shelters win big! Wahl, Greater Good Foundation and The Animal Rescue Site have teamed up with pet shelters to change the lives of shelter dogs nationwide. The group heard about the sad statistic that 1/2 of shelter dogs don’t receive proper grooming and knew they needed to help solve this issue. As getting adopted often rests on their first impression, matted and dirty dogs are overlooked and seen as “damaged.” No pup should ever be looked at as “less than,” but s=for some this is a sad reality. A shelter’s lack of appropriate funding leaves doggie-baths on the budget chopping block, making animals sit in their badly taken care of coats. Imagine going from this (a pup named Chulo who could not see due to his mangy coat):

A New Survey Shows Both Pets and Owners Feel Separation Anxiety

When you really love spending time with your pet, and vice versa, it is only natural that you feel sad when you are apart. For pets, this is often manifested as the dreaded  separation anxiety, which can cause a lot of issues both for them and their owners alike. While you know you are coming back from work – unlike your pooch – so you won’t feel as stressed about the time you spend away from your pet, that doesn’t mean that it won’t affect your mental health. The latest  survey from PetMed Express only proves that separation has an effect both on dogs and their pawrents.The results of this survey were recently released after being conducted by OnePoll, and they show us that pet parents – unsurprisingly – while out away for work or chores, will deeply miss their four-legged friends back at home. And, interestingly, the poll shows that the strain only got worse after the owners had to return to their offices after the Covid pandemic and the time they spent in their homes. "This research confirms what we already know: People love their pets and prioritize being with them," said Matt Hulett, President and CEO of PetMeds. "What's eye-opening is how many pet parents feel their own sense of separation anxiety and loneliness when they're away from their pets – a concept that underscores the pivotal role our pets play in our lives."The results indicate that 4 in 10 pet parents said that they would rather accept a lower salary and work from home, just so they could be closer to their furry friends. It is a sad truth and an everyday occurrence that owners have to endure the commute and long work hours and yearn for the company of their pets all the while. PetMeds claims that pet parents begin to miss their pets just 37 minutes after being apart, on average. Furthermore, the results show that on average they find themselves thinking about their pets about 13 times per day. Here are some other stats included:44% expressed worry about their pets experiencing separation anxiety52% have felt an increase in their own separation anxiety in the past two years42% said they have observed a change in their pet's mental health and behavior in the past two years48% said their pets follow them to the door and look sad when they leave63% would like more support and guidance in understanding their pet's health and behavior70% would try pet telehealth servicesWhat about you? How do you cope with being separated from your cherished four-legged friend?

New Study Reveals More About How Cats Purr

Pet parents love hearing their cats purr while in a relaxed and blissful state, and it’s believed that a kitty’s purr could be healing, too. But, no matter how long you’ve shared your home with felines, you might still wonder how your furry friend is able to make such a unique sound. New research now sheds some more light on how cats purr, so people can learn even more about their feline companions.

Dog Helps Find Missing Child

Dogs can be heroes, and that’s certainly the case when it comes to the story of a very special police K9 in Auburn, Massachusetts. When a 12-year-old went missing from their home and couldn’t be found for roughly two hours, Auburn police knew that they had to work quickly, and Biza the dog played an integral role in the child’s rescue.Child Found with the Help of a Police K9 Named BizaAccording to a Facebook post by Auburn MA Police Department, information about a missing child was received around 10:30 p.m. on January 31, 2024. The child had been missing since around 8:30 p.m., when they had left their home. No one knew where the child could be, and the frigid temperatures made everyone worry even more about their safety.Because the child had last been seen in the Pakachoag Hill area, Auburn police officers, Massachusetts State Police troopers, and detectives got to work looking for them. But it would be Biza, the K9 partner of Officer Ljunggren, who would really come through and help the search end successfully that night.Following the Scent to a Missing ChildBiza picked up the child’s scent and tracked it for more than two miles. The police were able to find signs that the missing child had been in the area, so they kept up the search until they were able to find them and bring them home to their family just a short while later.This is one example of many times that Biza has helped police in Auburn succeed since she joined them in 2022 from Germany. In addition to helping find missing people, she has also helped police track down suspects.  Thanks to Biza and her ability to track the right scent that night, a child was saved from the cold and made it home safe.Here’s a quick video about this story, showcasing a few photos of beautiful Biza:

UK Insurance Giant Names Pets as Culprit in Over 6,000 Claims

Between 2019 and 2023, dogs and cats identified as cause for missing jewelry, broken electronics, and property damage.

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!

Study Reveals the Most Expensive Locations for Pet-Friendly Airbnbs

Are you considering taking a trip to a dream destination in the United States with your best friend by your side? If so, you’re not alone! A growing number of animal lovers are taking steps to include the whole family in their travel plans, with Airbnb reporting that close to 50% of nights booked include pets. But have you ever stopped to consider how much your furry family member is increasing the budget?The team at MarketWatch recently released a guide to pet-friendly Airbnb travel in the US with some startling stats.Data was compiled about the cost of renting 11, 676 Airbnbs and 11,753 pet-friendly Airbnbs located in 46 of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. By comparing the average nightly cost for pet-friendly and pet-free locations, they determined the price premium or the added cost pet parents must pay to include their furry friends.While we’re not suggesting that the cost of accommodations should be the sole deciding factor for your next vacation, this could impact your top choices.According to the guide, the most expensive city is Honolulu, Hawaii, with an average night stay costing $511. This is also the destination where pet parents will face the highest price premium for booking a pet-friendly location at $345.50.If you’re an avid traveler, this likely comes as no surprise. Hawaii is one of the country's more popular destinations for luxury travel. Not only is the cost of living in the state one of the highest, but the state also charges a Transient Accommodations Tax (TAT), further increasing costs.Of the 10 most expensive tourist destinations to book a pet-friendly Airbnb, 7 were in California. In addition to Honolulu, the list includes:Monterey, CA ($509)Sonoma, CA ($488)Napa Valley ($380)Santa Cruz, CA ($339)Palm Springs, CA ($329)Boston, MA ($238)Los Angeles, CA ($226)San Francisco, CA ($226)Yellowstone National Park, WY ($219)Don’t let these costs keep you from planning your next big pet-friendly getaway. Not only did they compile a list of the most expensive destinations, but they also identified the least expensive nightly rates in the US. This list is a great way to travel with your pet without worrying about your budget.They discovered that the least expensive city to book a pet-friendly Airbnb is Oklahoma City, OK, where the average nightly rate is only $110. Other locations that made this list include:St. Louis, MO ($111)Cleveland, OH ($114)Columbus, OH ($117)Houston, TX ($119)Salt Lake City, UT ($119)Detroit, MI ($124)Memphis, TN ($125)Indianapolis, IN ($129)San Antonio, TX ($130)Booking a lower-cost Airbnb is only one of many ways to keep the costs down when traveling with your pet. Pack all your pet’s travel essentials before your trip, including a leash, food/water dishes, grooming supplies, plastic waste bags, and a first aid kit. If you are driving to your destination, you can also pack your pet’s food to avoid shopping for it once you arrive. You can gather these items by shopping local sales rather than paying a premium to get what you need on short notice. Pet Insurance is another great budget-friendly travel tip. This may seem counterproductive, adding the monthly cost of your pet’s policy to your budget. But if disaster strikes, the insurance policy can help to significantly reduce emergency vet bills.Whatever your budget, we encourage all pet parents to get out and explore, making memories with their pets by their side. You won’t regret it!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can Dogs Have Sleep Apnea?

If you’ve ever heard your dog snoring, you might’ve wondered if sleep apnea is a condition that can affect canines like it does humans. The answer is, yes, dogs can have sleep apnea, although it is rare, and certain breeds may be at greater risk. Below is some information on sleep apnea in dogs, including research, symptoms, and possible treatment options.

Is Dog Food Bad for Cats?

In households where cats and dogs coexist together, you can bet that furballs will “share” everything. Sofas, lounging chairs, cozy spots, beds, toys – you name it. Well, sure, not all of it is sharing in the real sense of the word, as it is more of your cat just claiming all of it for itself. That’s just how cats are. But hey, no harm in your cat and dog sharing a bed or a lounging spot. However, what would happen if your cat happened to “share” your dog’s food? Can dog food be bad for cats? Here’s what you should know if your feline is keen on nibbling your dog’s kibble.Is Dog Food Bad for Cats?Cats and dogs are different – it doesn’t take much thinking to figure that out. Not only in their behavioral traits but in their nutritional needs as well. And since their nutritional requirements differ, dog food will generally not be adequate for cats. While dog food is not toxic to cats, it does not have all the nutrients necessary for cats, and it is not formulated in the same way. Cats need specific nutrients like taurine, arachidonic acid, and certain vitamins that are not present in sufficient amounts in dog food. For example, dogs can survive with lower levels of Vitamin A and proteins, while cats cannot. And even if your cat somehow enjoys dog food and prefers to munch on it at feeding time, it is ultimately not good for her. In fact, feeding cats dog food over a long period can lead to nutritional deficiencies and health problems. It's essential to feed cats a balanced diet formulated specifically for their needs to ensure they stay healthy. This includes plenty of protein (more than doggos), and amino acids like taurine and arginine. In fact, these amino acids are essential for cat health. Taurine is especially important for cats. Unlike dogs, cats cannot synthesize enough taurine in their bodies, so they must get it from their diet. Taurine deficiency can lead to serious health issues in cats, including heart problems and vision issues.Cats also require arachidonic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid found in animal tissues. Arachidonic acid is necessary for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and reproductive function. While dogs can synthesize arachidonic acid from other fats, cats cannot produce enough on their own and must obtain it from their diet. The same goes for Vitamins A and D. They are essential components of a cat diet, and cannot be found in dog food in adequate measures. 

Rover Releases the Most Popular Pet Names of 2023

Whether you’re stumped for a name for your new dog or cat, or you’re just curious to know what people are naming their pets these days, Rover has some answers for you. The company released a list of the most popular pet names of 2023, and the 11th annual Top Pet Names Report also sheds light on the inspiration behind the names.Here are some of the interesting findings that Rover shared.

What to Know About Cat Reproduction

With a better understanding of feline reproduction, you can take steps to prevent unwanted litters, and you’ll know what to expect if you have an intact female or male.What does it mean when a queen (intact female cat) is in heat? How long does a pregnancy last? And why does it seem that cats are so good at reproducing? Below are the basics to help you get started.  There Are Multiple Stages in the Cat Heat CycleA cat’s estrous cycle, also known as her heat cycle, consists of multiple phases. Also, females are seasonally polyestrous, so they can go into heat more than once throughout the breeding season.The stages of a cat’s heat cycle are:Proestrus – During this phase, which will last about a day or two, you probably won’t notice any obvious changes in your cat.Estrus – During this phase, which lasts about a week on average, a female cat will behave in a way that lets males know that she wants to mate.Interestrus – If a cat doesn’t mate, she’ll go into this phase, which can also last about a week on average, until she goes into proestrus again. If a queen mates, ovulates, and becomes pregnant, she will enter diestrus.If a queen isn’t in a heat cycle at all, she’s in anestrus, which can last months.Cats Can Get Pregnant When They’re a Few Months OldCats become sexually mature around 6 months of age, on average, but it can happen even sooner than that. For example, a female can go into heat when she’s a mere four months old.This means that even kittens can mate and get pregnant. If you have intact male and female kittens, this is definitely something to be aware of. Talk to your veterinarian about the best time to spay or neuter your feline companions to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Cat Pregnancy Is Roughly Two Months LongA cat’s pregnancy can be shorter at 60 days or longer at 71 days. On average, a cat will give birth in about nine weeks, or 63 to 65 days. In other words, the pregnancy will be roughly two months long.On average, a cat will have four kittens, but she might have just one or she might have six or more. A queen’s age may affect the size of her litter—for example, a cat who’s pregnant for the first time is more likely to have a smaller litter, as is an older queen.After giving birth, a cat might go into heat again sooner than you think. It might even happen while her kittens are still nursing. So, if you’re caring for a mother and her litter, it’s important to prevent another pregnancy by keeping her safe indoors and away from intact males. Cats Are Induced OvulatorsWhat’s interesting about cats is that they’re induced ovulators. Put simply, when cats mate, the female ovulates, releasing eggs from her ovaries. And since the eggs are released with mating, it times out in a way that boosts the odds of pregnancy.A queen typically needs to mate multiple times before eggs are released, and she could mate with more than one male while she’s in heat.  A Litter of Kittens Can Have Different FathersAs mentioned above, a queen will mate more than once while she’s in heat. Well, another interesting fact about cats is that they can mate with more than one male while they’re in heat, so they could end up with kittens that have different fathers.In other words, a single litter of kittens could have two or more fathers. This is known as superfecundation.There Are Several Signs of Pregnancy in CatsHow can you tell if a cat is pregnant? Even though there are going to be several signs as the fetuses develop, you might not notice anything right away.You might first notice the queen’s nipples becoming more obvious. This is followed by weight gain that will eventually cause her belly to be big and round. Changes in behavior are also often seen in pregnant cats. Her appetite will increase, she may become more needy and affectionate, and she’ll look for a nest where she can give birth safely and comfortably.If you are caring for a pregnant cat, consider getting a product like the Sport Pet Pop Open Pet Kennel, which features two entryways, has a waterproof bottom, and comes with a removable, machine washable pad. She might view this as the perfect nesting box, and you’ll feel good knowing she’ll be secure in there with her kittens.

What Is Dog Folliculitis and How to Treat It?

Folliculitis in dogs is a disease which causes infection or inflammation of hair follicles. It is one of the more common skin diseases amongst dogs and is caused by bacteria, fungal infections, skin irritations, or  parasites. What is more, it can affect dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds, so if it happens to your four-legged friend unexpectedly, it is best to know how to treat this pesky skin issue.What Is Dog Folliculitis?The symptoms and causes of dog folliculitis can vary. In most cases, the healthy follicle is “compromised”, which leads to the accumulation of bacteria that are otherwise normally found on your pet’s skin. The end result is great discomfort for your dog, and it should be treated as quickly as possible. But how will you know that it is dog folliculitis and not some other health issue? Well, one of the foremost symptoms to look out for is red and inflamed skin. This condition causes excessive redness and even swelling in certain areas of the skin. This should be a telltale sign that something is amiss. Together with this, you could notice pimples, also known as pustules. They are small raised bumps and often contain pus. Of course, your dog will show signs of discomfort as well. They will try to itch and  lick the affected areas, in hopes of relieving the discomfort and making themselves more comfortable. This can all be accompanied by hair loss, mostly in the directly affected areas of your dog’s coat and skin. Ultimately, in the most severe cases, open sores, scabs, and skin lesions may appear. At this point, veterinary care is needed immediately.If you suspect your dog has folliculitis, it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible. They can perform diagnostic tests, such as skin scrapings or cultures, to identify the specific cause and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. It is crucial that you do not attempt any solution on your own. Self-diagnosis and do-it-yourself treatment can lead to complications or ineffective outcomes, so professional guidance is essential. Based on the evaluation, your vet can introduce a number of treatments and solutions – here’s what to expect.How Is Dog Folliculitis Treated?Topical antibiotics and antifungal creams are the most common treatment options. They are applied directly to the affected areas and are most efficient in early and moderate cases of dog folliculitis. Of course, if the case with your dog is more serious, your vet could propose an oral treatment. This consists of special medications that work to eliminate the infection at the core. Another possible solution is using special medicated shampoos that work to heal the follicles through gentle washing. 

How Acupuncture Can Help Cats and Dogs

Acupuncture is a part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and it can be used on people and pets to address a range of conditions. By balancing the flow of energy in the body, this technique can help reduce or resolve symptoms in a natural way.Many people have used acupuncture for their pets and achieved incredible results. But, like anything else, it might not be right for all pets or all conditions. And working with a qualified veterinarian who’s certified in pet acupuncture is key.Read on to learn more about acupuncture for cats and dogs.What Is Acupuncture for Dogs and Cats?In acupuncture, fine needles are placed in the skin on certain points throughout the body, referred to as acupuncture points or acupoints, in order to do things like restore energetic balance, reduce pain and inflammation, and support healthy blood flow. Based on your pet’s symptoms and condition, an acupuncturist will know where to insert the needles to get positive results.The needles shouldn’t cause any discomfort for your pet. In fact, pet parents often state that their animals become relaxed during their acupuncture sessions.Types of Pet AcupunctureThere are a few types of pet acupuncture, and an acupuncturist will determine which is best for your dog or cat.Dry needle acupuncture is the type of acupuncture that you’re likely familiar with. However, instead of using needles, acupuncturists can simply apply pressure to specific points on a pet’s body to support healing—this is known as acupressure.Other options include electroacupuncture, which combines the use of needles with an electric current, and laser acupuncture, which uses a cold laser to stimulate acupuncture points. The Benefits of Acupuncture for PetsAcupuncture can provide a host of benefits to pets when done correctly and by the right professional. As always, it’s wise to discuss this healing technique with your veterinarian to figure out if it’s appropriate for your canine or feline. And it’s important to discuss the potential risks or drawbacks before deciding if you want to try it.Some of the conditions that may be treated with the help of acupuncture include:Arthritis and joint problemsAcupuncture can be used to help relieve discomfort and pain associated with various conditions. If your pet has been diagnosed with arthritis or hip dysplasia, if they’ve been injured and are dealing with pain, or even if they’re having pain after a procedure, acupuncture might be a good treatment for reducing inflammation and improving mobility.In addition to acupuncture treatments, you can also help your pet feel more comfortable by using a heated bed like the K&H Thermo-Snuggle Cup Heated Cat Bed, which can also work well for small dogs. This product is machine washable and features soft fleece that your companion will love snuggling into. Its circular shape ensures your furry friend will feel nice and secure. Plus, you can use the removable heater to help alleviate discomfort and keep them warm while they relax or nap. 

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.

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