New California Bill Only Allows Pet Stores to Sell Rescued or Shelter

California Pet Stores Now Only Sell Rescue Animals As New Law Passes

California’s made history with Governor Jerry Brown’s signing of legislation that requires pet stores to only sell animals from shelters or non-profit rescue groups. It’s a great thing–but almost unbelievable to the point that Snopes even scoped its truth out! California has become the first state in America that requires its pet stores to only sell rescue cats, dogs and rabbits. Related: Historic Bill Banning Puppy Mill Pet Store Sales in Hands of California Governor The bill was called the Pet Rescue and Adoption Act, and it passed unanimously in the State Senate in September. It will take effect in on January 1, 2019, and will ensure that only dogs, cats and rabbits found for sale in pet stores are ones that came from animal shelters or non-profit rescue groups. Assembly member Patrick O’Donnell authored the bill, aiming to reduce animals breed in puppy mills or kitten factories for the purpose of being sold in pet stores. He says that for the taxpayers of California, the bill’s passing is monumental as it will help save some of the $250 million a year that is spent to care for and euthanize animals in shelters. More importantly, he says that it’s a huge win for animals who are looking for humane treatment and forever families. The bill was sponsored by Social Compassion in Legislation, and president Judie Mancuso said they are thrilled the Governor took steps to protect animals in California with the signing of this bill. Related: National Search and Rescue Dog Training Facility Opens in California And while you’d think it’d be good news for all animal lovers, some groups are not happy with the bill’s passing. The American Kennel Club and California Retailers Association believe that the bill will actually prevent pet lovers in California from getting pets from ethical commercial breeders. According to Sheila Goffe, the Vice President of Government Relations for the AKC, it’s not a good bill for Californians or the companion animals of California.

Petstore Puppies Linked to Campylobacter Outbreak in 7 States

As if we need more reasons to not buy dogs from pet stores, the CDC warns that a national pet chain store is responsible for an outbreak of a puppy infection that leads to Campylobacter infections in humans. Puppies from Petland pet store in seven states have been linked to 39 cases of Campylobacter infection in humans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The infection brings with it fever, stomach cramping, bloody diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. It is spread through the feces of dogs, but does not spread human to human. Related: New California Bill Only Allows Pet Stores to Sell Rescued or Shelter Animals Nine of the people infected have been hospitalized since the outbreak, as it can lead to severe dehydration and other issues. Of the infected humans, 12 were employees of Petland stores, and 27 either recently bought or visited with A Petland puppy. Petland is cooperating with the CDC to get to the source and resolution of the infection. The seven states that have been linked to this infection are: Kansas, Florida, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Tennessee. The specific Petland stores believed to have been involved with the infection have not been released yet, but the CDC recommends anyone who has visited with puppies at any Petland store be careful. They recommend puppy/pet owners wash their hands often, and if puppies bought look sick or sluggish, they should contact vets immediately. More, they advise not letting puppies lick faces–which is pretty much a given for a puppy. Related: Don’t Pucker Up: Dog Kisses Could Lead To Serious Illnesses Petland says that the CDC has not found any of Petland’s handling protocol or procedures to be at cause thus far, and Associate Professor of microbiology at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine Shelley Rankin says that a big risk factor is that they are simply puppies with weak immune systems. It’s often difficult to pinpoint a cause, but it also stands to reason the small quarters and often suspicious origins of pets bought from pet stores may be at play.

Ohio City Bans Dog Tethering Outside Overnight

A new city ordinance in Columbus, Ohio will prohibit people from tethering dogs outside overnight, as well as place stronger restrictions on how animals can be tethered at all. I guess being the crazy dog person I am, I can’t even believe things like this need to be legislated, but I am glad that they are. Recently, the Columbus, Ohio City Council passed a new ordinance that will ban anyone from chaining their dogs outside overnight. Related: New California Bill Only Allows Pet Stores to Sell Rescued or Shelter Animals The passing of the ordinance was unanimous, and people who chain their dogs up outside over night can be charged with misdemeanors that could be minor all the way to first-degree offenses. The organization responsible for rule enforcement is Columbus Humane, which was formerly known as the Capital Area Humane Society. Rachel Finney is the executive director of Columbus Humane and says that living life as a dog on a chain directly conflicts with core values she knows her city’s citizens maintain. Every day, she says, their agents come up on dogs who have sadly always lived life on a chain, and she is hopeful this is a step in the right direction for advocating for those pets. Many other Ohioan communities already have adopted or are considering rules that ban chaining dogs, and city Councilperson Shannon G. Hardin said that this new ordinance helps them be in the front of the pack when it comes to protecting animals. No Columbus resident may leave an animal chained outside between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., or any time there is a heat/cold advisory or severe weather threat. Dogs are also no longer allowed to be tethered with pinch/prong or choke collars or with chains that are not suitable for the animal’s weight and size–like tow chains, log chains or padlock chains. Related: Washington State Senate Passes New Legislation Restricting Tethering Pets IF a dog is tethered, they have to be able to move freely, though they are not allowed to reach outside property limits or in public walkways or roads. Councilperson Michael Stinziano says this new ordinance will not only help stop cruel treatment to animals, but hopefully reduce nuisance calls the city receives because dogs who are tethered often bark excessively (of course they do!). And while he says this new ordinance is not intended to limit how dogs are walked or trained, or to ban tethering completely, I have to wonder why ban tethering to just night time? There is a big difference to tether training and living life on a chain. I hope this is a step to even more freedom for dogs–day or night.

Historic Bill Banning Puppy Mill Pet Store Sales in Hands of Californi

A historic piece of legislation that will ban the pet store sale of all dogs, cats, and rabbits that come from commercial breeding facilities now sits in front of California Governor Jerry Brown, awaiting his signature. In California, AB 485–the Pet Rescue and Adoption Act, was passed by both the state Senate (with a 38-0 vote) and the state Assembly (65-3) and only needs the Governor’s signature to become law. The act bans the sale of pets (dogs, cats and rabbits) who come from high-volume commercial breeding facilities (such as ‘puppy mills’) and was sponsored by Democratic Assembly Members Patrick O’Donnell and Matt Dababneh. Related: New California Bill Only Allows Pet Stores to Sell Rescued or Shelter Animals Republican Assembly Member Rocky Chavez signed as a co-sponsor of the bill, and with the overwhelming support, showed that both parties were committed to efforts of ensuring shelter animals find forever homes and puppy mills find no support in their state. Pet shops who want to continue selling pets will now have to source solely from local shelters and rescues, and the state legislators hope the act will put a stop to the mass breeding of pets. Senator Cathleen Galgani said that often, bred pets end up in shelters too, and cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to take care of–only to lead to euthanasia in many cases. She says that taking puppy mills out of the equation will be better for pets and for people. The bill was sponsored by the animal advocacy group Social Compassion in Legislation, and founder and president Judie Mancuso says they are thrilled with the monumental bill. She believes that the numbers of pets annually euthanized in California (about half a million) will go down and mass breeders will get the message that people will not stand for inhumane and abhorrent practices so many puppy mill-like places have. Related: 10 Signs Your Dog is From a Puppy Mill That all said, there are some big groups who oppose the bill, and are encouraging Californians to ask Governor Brown to veto. Two other states, Maine and New Jersey attempted similar bills to no avail, so we watch and see if California will be the one to make history. The Governor has until October 15 to sign into law or veto.

How to Introduce a Cleanse to Your Dog's Health Regimen

Caught in Rip Tide, Dog Paddling Black Labrador Gets Lucky

After being swept out to sea, Sadie the blak Lab drew efforts of U.S. Coast Guard and local lifeguards to generate amazing rescue story.

Study Finds Pet Parents Struggle to Keep Up With Rising Vet Costs

We all want the same thing for our furry family members: to give them a long, healthy, and thriving life. We research the best diets, invest in the safest toys, and clear our schedules for their annual vet checkups. However, a recent study has highlighted a sobering reality within the Canadian veterinary landscape. Financial barriers are increasingly standing between pets and the care they deserve. The PetSmart Charities of Canada – Gallup State of Pet Care Study, released in February 2026, reveals a significant disconnect between what vets recommend and what families can realistically afford. According to the data, a staggering 96% of Canadian veterinarians report that their clients’ financial situations frequently prevent them from agreeing to recommended care. One of the most striking findings of the study isn’t just the rising cost of care itself, but how we talk about it. Or rather, how we don’t. While 87% of vets say they offer alternative treatment plans when a client expresses concerns about the cost, only 28% of pet parents recall being offered those more affordable options. This communication gap suggests that many pet parents may feel overwhelmed or embarrassed to bring up budget concerns, while many vets (40% of whom feel their education didn’t prepare them for these financial discussions) may hesitate to lead with lower-cost alternatives for fear of providing anything less than the “gold standard” of care. What can we learn from this? If you find yourself facing a high-cost medical recommendation, it is helpful to understand the concept of the “Spectrum of Care.” This is an evidence-based approach in which vets provide a range of treatment options that consider your pet’s needs, your financial reality, and your overall goals. While the “gold standard” (the most medically advanced diagnostic or treatment) is often the starting point, it is not the only path to a good outcome. In fact, 92% of vets surveyed agreed that trying something, even if it isn’t the most ideal clinical treatment, is far better than doing nothing at all. The emotional toll of facing financial barriers is heavy for everyone involved, including loving families, their pets, and the veterinary teams who care for them. To ensure your pet gets the best care within your means, consider these proactive steps: Ask for the Spectrum: You and your vet are a team, working together for the best possible outcome. If the proposed treatment plan is financially out of reach, start the conversation. As your vet, what are the other points on the spectrum of care for this condition? Inquire Early About Financing: Don’t wait for the final bill. Ask about third-party payment plans or in-clinic payment plans during the initial consultation. Some of these solutions will take time to apply for financial assistance. Discuss Goals First: Start the appointment by sharing your goals and your budget. Giving this information to your vet right away will help them tailor their recommendations to best suit your needs (and your pet’s). The bond we share with our pets is priceless, but the reality of vet care is that it’s not. By having more transparent, compassionate conversations with our vet and their care team, we can ensure that financial challenges won’t prevent our best friends from living their best lives. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

5 Adorable Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas Your Dog Will Truly Love

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for humans. Your pup deserves a little extra love too. Whether your dog enjoys playtime treats or looking stylish, these thoughtfully chosen Valentine’s Day gifts are perfect for showing them how much you care. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Is an Axolotl Right for You? What New Owners Often Overlook

If you’ve spent any time on social media lately, you’ve likely seen that adorable wide-mouthed grin and those feathery pink gills that make the axolotl look like something straight out of a fantasy movie. It’s easy to see why so many animal lovers fall instantly in love. However, if you are going to bring one of these unique creatures into your life, there’s more to consider than just its interesting appearance.The reality of owning an axolotl is a bit more complex than simply setting up a standard fish tank and hoping for the best. They have very specific biological needs, from strictly controlled water temperatures to delicate skin that requires a gentle environment. It can be overwhelming for even experienced pet parents!Before you head to a breeder or your local specialty pet shop, it’s important to look past the viral appeal and understand the commitment you are about to make. This guide will help you understand the most important aspects of axolotl care, so you can decide whether your lifestyle and home are the right fit for this new aquatic family member.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article, but at no cost to you.Understanding the AxolotlBefore we can provide the ideal environment for an axolotl, we have to understand exactly what they are. Unlike the goldfish or bettas many of us grew up with, the axolotl is a species of salamander. However, they possess a rare trait known as neoteny. While most amphibians evolve to leave the water and breathe air as adults, axolotls keep the features that allow them to live in the water their entire lives, like those iconic feathery external gills. Their biology stems from the place their ancestors called home: the ancient lakes of Xochimilco near Mexico City. These are not tropical waters. Located at high altitudes, the water stays cool and dark. When we bring an axolotl home, we aren’t just keeping a pet; we're recreating a very specific ecosystem. Some important details you need to know: Lifespan: With proper care, these animals are a long-term commitment, often living 10 to 15 years. Size: An adult can reach lengths of 23 to 30 cm, meaning they require significantly more space than a standard desktop aquarium. Permeable Skin: Like all amphibians, they breathe through their skin and gills. Their skin is incredibly delicate and lacks the protective scales of a fish, making them hypersensitive to water pollutants and physical handling. Setting Up the Ideal Axolotl Environment Successfully keeping an axolotl comes down to three non-negotiable factors: water chemistry, temperature control, and habitat safety. If any of these pillars crumble, your pet’s health will rapidly decline. Water Quality and the Nitrogen Cycle For an axolotl, the water is their atmosphere. Because they produce a lot of waste, the water can become toxic very quickly without a proper biological filter in place. To get this set up properly, you will need to cycle your tank (a process that can take 4 to 8 weeks) before you ever bring your pet home. Ammonia and Nitrates: These must always be at 0 ppm. Even trace amounts can cause chemical burns on their skin and gills. Nitrates: Keep them below 20 ppm with regular weekly water changes. Testing: A liquid master test kit is an essential tool for every axolotl parent. Paper strips are often too inaccurate for their sensitive needs. The Challenge of Temperature This is often the biggest challenge for those who are new to these little creatures. Axolotls are cold-water animals. If their water gets too warm, their metabolism spikes, their immune system suppresses, and they become prone to fungal infections. You must maintain a consistent temperature between 15 °C and 18 °C. Temperatures consistently above 20 °C are stressful, and anything above 24 °C can be fatal. Depending on your climate, you may need aquarium cooling fans or a dedicated refrigerated chiller, which can be a significant financial investment. Substrate and SafetyAxolotls are “vacuum feeders.” They open their mouths wide and suck in whatever is in front of them. In a tank with traditional aquarium gravel or small pebbles, whey will inevitably swallow the stones, leading to a life-threatening intestinal blockage known as impaction. Very fine aquarium sand (which can pass through the digestive tract) or a bare-bottom tank are the only recommended choices. Additionally, axolotls do not have eyelids. Bright aquarium lights are stressful for them, so low-light plants (like Java Fern) and plenty of physical caves or hides are necessary to keep them comfortable. Daily and Weekly Care RoutinesOwning an axolotl is often compared to keeping a very delicate, high-maintenance aquatic garden. Because they don’t engage in interactive play like a dog or cat, the joy of being an axolotl parent comes from the challenge of mastering their environment and daily care. Their care is less about training and more about maintaining a stable, silent ecosystem where they can thrive. The Axolotl Diet In the wild, axolotls are opportunistic carnivores. In a home setting, their diet should focus on high-quality proteins that support their natural healing abilities and maintain their energy levels. To create a balanced diet, you should consider the following factors:The Staple (Nightcrawlers): Earthworms or nightcrawlers are the gold standard. They provide the full spectrum of vitamins and minerals an axolotl needs. For younger or smaller axolotls, these can be cut into manageable pieces. Sinking Pellets: High-protein, soft-moist pellets designed specifically for axolotls are an excellent supplement and can help ensure they are getting a properly balanced diet. The Treat Category: Bloodworms and brine shrimp are popular but should be treated like a dessert. They are high in fat and lack the calcium and protein density required for their main diet. Feeding Frequency: Adult axolotls typically only need to eat two to three times per week. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and poor water quality, as uneaten food quickly decays in their tank, releasing toxic ammonia. The Maintenance ScheduleUnlike some pets, you can’t use a “set it and forget it” approach with an axolotl. Their high waste production means you are constantly balancing the chemistry of their environment to keep your new family member safe and healthy. You should conduct daily spot checks of the aquarium and use a turkey baster to remove any solid waste or uneaten food. This simple two-minute task helps to prevent ammonia spikes in the water and keeps the tank looking pristine. Depending on your tank size and filtration, a 20% to 30% weekly water change is standard to remove nitrates that the filter can’t process. Never scrub your filter media with tap water. The chlorine in tap water will kill the beneficial bacteria that keep your axolotl alive. Always rinse sponges in a bucket of old tank water.

3 Lower-Maintenance Pets for Busy People

Not everyone has the time for daily dog walks, regular grooming, or pets that need lots of social interaction throughout the day. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy having an animal companion, it just means being honest about what realistically fits your lifestyle.“Lower-maintenance” pets can still bring plenty of companionship, personality, and joy into your home, while typically needing less hands-on care day to day. Even so, it’s important to remember that all pets need proper care, attention, and commitment. Lower effort doesn’t mean no effort!Here are three options that are often a better fit for busy households.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

New Guidelines for Diagnosing Cognitive Decline in Dogs

Like people, dogs can experience cognitive decline in their senior years. A group of canine cognition experts recently released guidelines that can help veterinarians diagnose and monitor Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, also known as CCDS and canine dementia. The goal is to help dogs who experience cognitive issues, especially since canine dementia diagnoses are on the rise.

3 Fun Facts About Sphinx Cats

Sphinx cats are undeniably one of the most unique-looking feline breeds, famous for their hairless appearance and striking personalities. Beyond their (seemingly) bald bodies, these cats are full of surprises! Here are three fun facts about Sphinx cats that might make you fall in love with them even more.

Treating Dog Cancer. Is Chemo A Good Choice?

Unlike human-grade chemo, the options for your dog may be just the ticket to improving his life.

5 Tips to Make Traveling With Your Dog Easier

Traveling with your furry friend can be a ton of fun, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. From packing the right supplies to keeping your pup calm during long drives, a little prep can go a long way. Here are five tips to make your adventures with your dog smoother and more enjoyable.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

5 Items In Your Shed That Are Dangerous for Pets

If you have a shed, it’s probably full of useful things—tools, chemicals, and old supplies you might use someday. However, some of these items can be dangerous for your pets. Dogs and cats are naturally curious, and a quick sniff or chew can quickly get them into trouble—whether they’ve wandered into your shed or found the items around your yard. Here are five common shed items that could harm your pets and what to look out for.

Keep Your Pets Safe and Happy This Holiday Season

Tech that allows you to check in on your pets wherever the holiday season takes you.The holidays are full of excitement—traveling to visit family, welcoming guests, and of course, all those packages arriving at your doorstep. Keeping an eye on your home shouldn’t add stress to the season, and that’s where Ring comes in. With smart doorbells, cameras, and alarms, Ring makes it easy to monitor your home, check in on your pets, and enjoy peace of mind wherever the season takes you.

Tips for Socializing Your New Puppy

Bringing a new puppy home is exciting, but it also comes with an important responsibility: socialization. How your puppy interacts with people, other dogs, and the world around them in these early months can shape their behavior for life. Proper socialization helps prevent fear, aggression, and anxiety later on—and it makes your puppy a happier, more confident companion.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Minnesota Gets Its First Pet-Friendly College Campus

For many of us, the bond we share with our pets is truly special. They are our companions, confidants, therapists, playmates, emotional anchors, and daily entertainment. Studies have even shown that living with a pet benefits our physical and mental health.  However, for young adults heading off to college, that bond has historically been severed at the dormitory door. That is officially changing in Minnesota. Gustavus Adolphus College, a private liberal arts college in St. Peter, recently announced a landmark shift in their campus policy. Starting this fall, Gustavus will become the first pet-friendly campus in the state, launching a pilot program that allows students to bring their dogs and cats to live with them in a designated residence hall. This move comes on the heels of a growing understanding of the “human-animal bond” in our modern society. For students navigating the high-pressure environment of college life, having a beloved pet with them can lower cortisol levels, reduce feelings of loneliness, help open doors to new social interactions and relationships, and encourage a more consistent daily routine. The program is currently limited to students in their second year or beyond who are in good academic standing. To prevent potential challenges before they arise, the college has established specific criteria that reflect the high standards of responsible pet parenting and rules to ensure pets fit well into the college lifestyle. Size and Behavior: Dogs must weigh 40 pounds or less, be fully housebroken, and have no history of aggression. Health and Wellness: Both cats and dogs must be at least one year old, spayed or neutered, and current on all vaccinations. Stability: To ensure the pet is well-adjusted, the college requires proof that the animal has lived with the student or their family for at least six months prior to moving onto campus. Financial responsibilities include a $300 annual pet fee and a $200 refundable deposit. Additionally, students must identify an emergency caretaker within 350 miles of campus, ensuring the animal has a safety net if the student is ever unable to care for them. For parents of college-bound students, this policy change represents a significant shift in the way we integrate pets into our lives. Beyond emotional comfort, living with a pet teaches students a high level of responsibility. Managing a pet’s schedule alongside a demanding course load requires exceptional time management and a dedication to the health and happiness of another living being. By requiring veterinary records and health certifications, the college reinforces the importance of preventive care. This helps spark conversations and spread awareness about this important topic. Gustavus Adolphus plans to evaluate the program over the next three years to determine its long-term viability. As pet parents, we know that our animals aren’t just “extras” in our lives. They are family. Seeing higher education institutions recognize this value is a promising step toward a society that fully embraces the benefits of our furry companions in every stage of life. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.