California’s New Law Bans Pet Stores From Selling Non-Rescue Pets

by Lori Ennis

Published: January 2nd, 2019

californias new law bans pet stores from selling non rescue pets

New laws across America affecting animals and animal welfare go into effect with California being the first state in the country to mandate pet stores only sell animals from shelters or rescue groups.

The mantra of ‘adopt, don’t shop,’ will take on something new this year in California, as The Pet Rescue and Adoption Act signed in 2017 took effect with the start of 2019. The law means prohibits pet stores from selling dogs unless they are from shelters or non-profit rescue groups.

Individuals can still buy from private breeders though. Assemblymember Patrick O’Donnell introduced the act and said that the law was meant to put an end to puppy mills and kitten factories, not to put credible breeders out of business. California is the first state in the country to enact such legislation, but other states have showings that they’re looking to follow.

With the law, store owners and operators will be required to provide records of where the animals they sell come from or they’ll face a $500 per animal penalty.

O’Donnell said that not only is the law a win for four-legged friends, but for the taxpayers of California. According to O’Donnell, Californians spend over $250 million annually to shelter and then eventually euthanize homeless and/or stray dogs. This act will work toward finding those dogs homes, as well as preventing puppy mills and kitten factories from overpopulating the state.

The act doesn’t just apply to dogs or cats but to rabbits as well, and specifies that pet stores can sell them from the following places: a public animal control agency or shelter, the humane society shelter, a rescue group that is working with an animal shelter or the society for the prevention of cruelty to animals shelter.

Additionally, each pet store has to have records that will document where the animals came from for at least a year and to post that information where the animal is kept before sale. The stores will also give the public animal control agencies and shelters that information on a periodic basis as needed or requested to ensure compliance with the law.

Lori Ennis

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Lucy’s Law Confirmed In England, Bans Pet Stores From Selling Puppie

Those looking for puppies or kittens in the United Kingdom will now need to look at breeders or rescue groups, as a new bill called Lucy’s Law mandates that pet stores are no longer allowed to sell them. The United Kingdom’s Animal Welfare Minister David Rutley announced that no longer will pet stores or other third parties be able to sell puppies or kittens under six-months-old. Instead, those seeking new family members will either have to go to registered, reputable breeders or rescue groups/centers. Related: New San Francisco Law: Pet Stores Can Only Sell Rescue Pets According to a public consultation, over 95% of citizens support the ban on stores selling puppies and kittens in an effort to bring the number of puppy farms/mills down and to advocate for animal welfare. The According to Rutely, the ban will make low welfare breeders less motivated to farm/mill animals as they will no longer be able to trade with third-party sellers. He said that the ban on third-party sales is to ensure that the nations beloved pets get the right starts in life, and that Lucy’s Law will continue the work that previous welfare actions (such as banning puppy sales for dogs under eight-weeks-old) have started. Marc Abraham is a vet and the founder of PupAid and the Lucy’s Law campaign to ban this third-party sales and said that this shows how grassroots campaigning can make a difference. He is thrilled that Lucy’s Law has been confirmed and that illegal puppy dealing and inappropriate activities of breeders will not be rewarded. Lucy’s Law means that every breeder must now be transparent and will be held accountable and prospective pet parents have safety in knowing their pet came from a situation that took care to preserve the animal’s welfare. He hopes that this is a step in making these practices, as well as the smuggling of pets treated poorly into the country for resell, over in other places outside of the U.K.’s borders as well. Organizations that protect animals are mostly thrilled, with Battersea saying that the days of unscrupulous puppy dealers who have no regard for animals are near the end, and Dog Trust hopes it’s a step in the right direction to better regulate rehoming sectors as well. Related: England’s Lucy’s Law To Ban Pet Stores From Selling Pets A spokesperson from Dog Trust said that already, irresponsible sellers will set themselves up as pretend breeders, even going so far as to have fake homes and puppy mamas onsite to trick buyers. They’ll then ship puppies from puppy farms in from overseas. Dog Trust hopes that this loophole is also looked into as part of this move toward better welfare for animals. And as always, Dog Trust wants to remind people who are considering puppies that dogs are for life, not just Christmas, and hopes that the support from citizens to ban pet store/ third party sales reinforces this idea.

England’s Lucy’s Law To Ban Pet Stores From Selling Pets

A ban preventing licensed dog and cat sellers from selling pets under eight-weeks-old will come into effect in England on October 1, and may be followed by a ban on pet shops and dealers selling any puppies or kittens unless they come from a rescue or a breeder. In England, a ban against licensed dealers selling pets under eight weeks of age will go into effect on October 1, and proposals that will prohibit pet stores and dealers in England from selling any puppies or kittens are under consultation. This means that anyone looking to buy or adopt a pet (who is under six-months-old) will either need to go to a rescue center or find a specific breeder. Supporters of the ban hope that health problems that come up when pets are raised in ‘puppy mill’ type situations will be reduced. It is a victory for those who support Lucy’s Law–a campaign that is named after a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who was poorly treated at such a puppy mill. She was so abused from being sired out at a Welsh Puppy farm that she suffered complications she eventually died from in 2016. In Great Britain, the Blue Cross (an animal charity) estimates that between 40,000 and 80,000 puppies are sold by third parties, though there are no records to specifically support that. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs claims that fewer than 100 third-party sellers are even licensed in England. This includes some pet stores. Related: British Government Wants to Crack Down on Puppy Mill Breeders Michael Gove is the Environment Secretary and said that this legislation would stop people who have no regard for pet welfare from profiting from the horrible trade industry. Marc Abraham is a veterinarian who launched the campaign for Lucy’s Law and said that this would make breeders and puppy ‘farms’ transparent and accountable–a good move for animal welfare and pet health overall. With the new legislation, pet shops will no longer be able to blame breeders for problems, and breeders won’t be able to blame pet stores. Paula Boyden is with Dogs Trust and says the legislation is a good start but fears that loopholes may need to be closed so animals don’t suffer. She says it needs more measures that will make re-homing/rescue organizations meet stronger regulations as well. Chris Wainwright is the deputy chief executive of the RSPCA and said that he hoped this ‘overdue’ ban would raise welfare standards and end the trade of rogue dealers who prey on the unsuspecting public. No longer will third parties be able to take the criticism of irresponsible breeders away by being the middle-person, often when families have no idea and believe they are buying from reputable breeders. Related: Historic Bill Banning Puppy Mill Pet Store Sales in Hands of California Governor Obviously, there are those who are not so thrilled about the legislation. The Pet Industry Federation said that puppy mills should, of course, be closed down but in banning third-party sales, they fear large underground sales rings occurring and this could be just as bad (or worse) for animal welfare. As of October 1, licensed pet sellers will have to have their license number listed and breeders will have to show puppies by their mothers before sales are allowed. Campaigners in Wales are also calling to implement Lucy’s Law and the Welsh government is looking at banning third-party sales as well.

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.

New San Francisco Law: Pet Stores Can Only Sell Rescue Pets

A new amendment to a health code in San Francisco now bans pet stores within the city from selling dogs or cats. Now, stores must obtain pets from animal rescues or shelters, in an effort to deter puppy mill production. The San Francisco Board of Supervisors passed new legislation this week that they hope will deter businesses from selling companion pets originating from puppy/kitten mills. The amendment to a current health code prohibits the sale of puppies and kittens under eight weeks old, and stipulates pet stores in the city can’t sell sell dogs and cats that were not previously from an animal rescue organization or shelter. Related: New NJ Law Seeks To Ban Sale Of Puppy Mill Dogs Board Member Katy Tang said that the new ordinance is to prevent the inhumane and deceiving practices of what are commonly known as puppy (and kitten) mills (breeders who churn animals out like they are on an assembly line). The board vote was unanimous, and members aimed to give large-scale breeders the message that they will not tolerate their abhorrent treatment of animals, nor will they allow those breeders to profit from their city. The law does not apply to small, licensed breeders who give proper care, although it does restrict those breeders from selling puppies and kittens before they are eight weeks old to promote better bonding and health for the animals. Related: UK Protects Puppies With Tighter Pet Dealer Laws Tang says they are not currently aware of pet stores that sell animals from mills, but hope that this new bill discourages anyone from trying to sell or obtain pets unethically. San Francisco follows in the footsteps of big cities with similar bills, such as Chicago, San Diego, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Austin and Boston. As more and more awareness comes about the horrors of puppy/kitten mills, we hope that more cities follow! Well done, San Francisco!

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

A new law in California is looking to make a powerful statement about puppy mills — it would be illegal for pet stores to sell certain domesticated animals, unless they’ve come from a shelter. California bill AB485, also known as the Pet Rescue and Adoption Act, proposes that pet store owners not sell dogs, cats or rabbits unless they were obtained from a shelter or public animal control facility/rescue group. Supporters believe that this bill will go a long way in rights for animals subject to the cruelty of breeding conditions in puppy mills, while also saving animals that desperately need loving homes. And, at first glance, it’s a win in that direction. Related: Lawmakers Join Animal Welfare Groups For Responsible Breeder Laws In Kansas Yet, some worry that this broad movement doesn’t just affect the puppy mill breeder types, but all breeders in general, including those who are responsible, loving pet breeders looking to do good with the animals they give to this world. Many opponents of this bill believe that while animal welfare fights are important because they protect animals, this bill goes a bit too far because it punishes many who love animals and treat them respectfully and responsibly. The bill passed the Assembly Floor at the end of May and looks to be passed fully by the Senate. The bill was co-authored by Assembly members Patrick O’Donnell and Matt Dababneh, in conjunction with the group Social Compassion in Legislation, and has bipartisan support. Assembly member O’Donnell believes the bill will end the plight of shelter dogs, cats, and rabbits, making them the only available for purchase from California stores, and Assembly member Dababneh hopes that the move will discourage the patronization of puppy mills, who use cruel and inhumane treatment with their animals. But, many believe that the bill will make it near impossible for those who desire/need specific breeds for things like allergies or temperaments to fit particular lifestyles, and fear that responsible breeders will be put out of business. More, they fear that having only abandoned and/or abused pets as options will prevent people from having pets at all, and not really make a difference in promoting how wonderful family pets can be. Related: USDA Moves Animal Welfare Records; Sparks Concern About Secretary Nominee The president of the California Veterinary Medical Association, Dr. Ken Pawlowski says that the official position on this bill is a ‘watch’ because for now, it currently has no direct impact on the state’s veterinarians. He considers the bill to be a statement against puppy mills, and adds rabbits to a bill that is already similar in effect in municipalities across the state. Mike Bober, president of The Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council says they organization supports an amendment to the bill that addresses sourcing restrictions. He believes that restricting animal companion sources to highly ethical and reputable breeders will give Californians better options for finding pets that best fit their needs.

Shelter Cat's Brutally Honest Adoption Ad Goes Viral: She Will Own You

Last month, the Humane Society of Washington shared a brutally honest adoption post in which they introduced a cat who is up for adoption. The adoption post, which went viral, describes the feline in question as “a more lively houseplant.”The three-year-old tortoiseshell cat named Quinn arrived at the Humane Society of Washington County in Hagerstown, Maryland, in August as a stray. According to the post, Quinn is currently the shelter’s longest-term cat resident.This is not the first time the shelter advertised Quinn’s adoption. However, since the first post hasn’t helped Quinn find her person, the shelter decided to change tactics with a brutally honest profile.“Do you want a cat who doesn’t want you? Do you crave the feeling of being judged in your own home? Do you need someone who will slap you back into reality without notice? If you answered yes to any of these questions we have a cat for you!” posted the Humane Society of Washington County on Facebook. “Meet Quinn!” the shelter added.The post went on to say that Quinn’s not for everyone. “But surely there’s someone out there who would appreciate her icy stare and her sudden smacks.”Continuing to highlight all of Quinn’s quirks the post said “She has an uncanny ability to make people feel unwelcome in her presence!” This particular trait makes Quinn perfect for people who are tired of visitors and just want to enjoy the peace of their home. Additionally, Quinn isn’t an overly energetic feline. “Quinn only seems to want to play about once a month,” making her an ideal companion for people who aren’t big fans of physical activity.“Quinn is essentially a more lively houseplant, because all she really needs a human for is food, water, and changing her litter,” said the shelter.“If you adopt Quinn you will not be her owner, because Quinn cannot be owned. She will own you, your house, your belongings, and everything you hold dear.” The shelter also noted that Quinn isn’t on the main adoption floor with other felines and must be asked for by name. The feisty feline has taken up residence in an office where she rules with an iron paw. Anyone interested in being “Quinn’s servant” should not have canines or small children in the house. “Quinn would challenge any dog to a fight. For the dog’s safety, it’s best that she goes to a home without any canines,” said the shelter. The Humane Society of Washington County added - “Quinn is like a more physical version of someone yelling ‘Get off my lawn!’ at small children.” - leaving teens and adults as only suitable housemates. “We originally [shared] a conservative post highlighting Quinn’s strengths, but when no one came for her, we decided the best way to find her a home was to rip off the band-aid and just let her true colors shine,” said Collin A. Berry, executive director of the Humane Society of Washington County, to Fox News Digital. Soon after Quinn arrived at the shelter it became clear that she wasn’t a particularly social feline. She didn’t allow any of the staff to touch her for close to a week. After being sedated for an exam, and given a clean bill of health, it became clear that her behavior wasn’t the result of pain or an underlying health condition. “Everyone thought time and space would help, but as it turns out, Quinn is just Quinn,” said Berry. “She’s a lady who knows what she wants and when she wants it.”We’re happy to report that Quinn has been adopted! It turns out honesty is the best policy! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Dog Ran A Mile to Her Doggy Daycare Center for Help After A Car Crash

A frightened dog ran a mile through heavy traffic to its doggy daycare to get help after she and her owner were in a car crash. Melisa Fickel, the dog’s owner, said that Aries, a three-year-old pit bull mix has always been a smart pooch. The pup, who was adopted in 2020, learns tricks quickly and loves to play in the park. Aries recently got a chance to show exactly how smart she is. The pooch and her owner were heeded to a local park in Detroit, Michigan when another car hit them from behind. Luckily, no one was injured, and both vehicles sustained only minor damages. However, the car accident spooked Aries, prompting her to jump out of the car’s window and run off into traffic. “I had the windows down because Aries likes to hang her head out,” said Fickel to a local TV station. “As soon as there was that smack, as soon as I felt and heard it, almost instantaneously, she was out the window.”Fearing the worst, Fickel was concerned about her pup’s safety. While dealing with the police and her insurance company, her mind was preoccupied with all the ways Aries could be in danger,“I can’t really think about it because so many things could have happened,” she added.What Fickel didn’t know is that Aries ran about a mile down the road, to the safest place she could be in - the Hounds Town Metro Detroid, the doggy daycare she frequently visits. Security footage recorded at the daycare showed Aries arriving at the center during the staff’s noon break when employees usually shut down the lobby to clean and catch up with other tasks. According to Dominic Pace, the daycare’s general manager, he and another employee were in the lobby when they saw something outside. “We noticed something dart past the front door,” said Pace. “It was like a black blur that just went past.”Thinking that they might have seen a dog, Pace went outside and found Aries standing by the sidewalk leading to the daycare’s front door. The pooch was panting and looked scared. Once inside the daycare, Aries has calmed down. Pace thought the dog looked familiar, so he called Travis Odgen, the daycare’s owner. At first, Odgen thought that it might be a stray dog, but as he got a better look, he instantly recognized Aries. “I was like, ‘Oh, that looks like Aries’ and then she walks closer and I’m like ‘That is Aries!’” he said. “I start to pet her and she gives me kisses, and she rolls over for me, recognizing me.”Although happy to see Aries, Odgen was confused to see the pooch without her owner. He immediately called Fickel to find out what was happening and to tell her that her dog was in the daycare.Everything made sense once Odgen learned about the fender bender and Aries’ escape. He assured the pup’s owner that she was safe and sound, minus a small cut on her paw. The staff promised to look after the pup until her owner sorted out everything and was able to pick her up.According to Pace, Aries is a very friendly and sweet dog who loves to flop on her back, expecting belly rubs from anyone nearby. “Dogs do have an intuition of knowing where they are and where they can be safe,” he said. “She knows that she’s safe here, that she has people here that will take care of her and dogs are pretty intuitive when it comes to that kind of thing.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why is My Dog Vomiting White Foam?

Sometimes, our dogs can exhibit behavior that can cause great panic in any owner. After all, they can’t talk to us and tell when something is hurting them, or when they feel ill, scared, or angry. So they let their bodies do the talking. One of these scary behaviors is vomiting white foam. It can happen all of a sudden, and frighten you to no end. But is it really a reason to panic? And what causes a dog to vomit white foam in the first place? Let’s find out more.Why Do Dogs Vomit White Foam?The reasons for white foam vomiting can be many, and the cause might not be clear to you immediately. What’s even more frustrating, there are several possible causes for this occurrence. In some cases, the reason for the vomiting can be complex, but often enough it is super simple. It could end up being a sensitive tummy irritated by a new brand of food on the menu, or just a passing belly ache that’s nothing to stress over. However, you should always consult with a vet to eliminate any underlying health issues, as there are many conditions whose symptom is vomiting. One of the conditions that manifests as vomiting foam is bilious vomiting, which is caused when a dog's stomach is empty for an extended period. This leads to the production of gastric acid, so the stomach contents may include a foamy, white substance. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day may help prevent this.  Gastritis, or the inflammation of the stomach lining can also cause vomiting. This condition may be triggered by various factors, such as dietary indiscretion, changes in diet, ingesting foreign objects, or infections. The vomit can likewise be white and foamy. The same can happen in the case of gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, which is often caused by infections, dietary changes, or the ingestion of inappropriate or spoiled food. Be careful of the expiration dates and the quality of food you give to your dog, as an innocent mistake can cause a lot of digestive issues for your four-legged bestie. Another possible reason for white foam vomit can be the  ingestion of foreign bodies. Dogs may ingest non-food items that can cause irritation or blockages in the digestive tract, leading to vomiting. If you notice them dry heaving, this could be the reason why. The same goes for the ingestion of  toxic materials. Ingesting toxic substances can lead to white foamy vomiting. Common toxins include certain plants, human foods (like chocolate, xylitol, or onions), and household chemicals.

World’s Largest Cruise Ship Welcomes a Super Cute Dog as a Resident

“Icon of the Seas” might have been known as the largest cruise ship until this year, but now, everybody will know it as the ship with a permanent doggy resident – Rover, a cute Lab with (apparently) four sea legs!Ever since coming on board, Rover has been the focus of social media posts by the cruise ship’s crew members. Based on the posts, the adorable pooch boarded the ship while it was stationed in Ponce, Puerto Rico, just as it was about to finish its journey in Miami, Florida. And soon enough, Rover, who is a young  Labrador Retriever, became the ship’s very own mascot and likely everybody’s favorite resident.After all, Rover was so friendly and loveable that it took only one day for the crew to decide that he would become the permanent resident of the vessel – that takes some serious charm, ya know?“Meet Rover,” one Instagram post said, “the Resident Mascot of the Icon. He just came on board today. He’s a friendly Labrador who’s going to be the permanent resident of the World’s Largest Cruise Ship, Icon of the Seas.”The crew all quickly gathered around to ensure that Rover would be given the best possible care in his new role of “Chief Dog Officer”. Allison, one of the crew members is originally from Australia and has been a member of the crew for five years. She ensures that Rover receives plenty of treats and a ton of love. "As a crew member on Icon, Rover's job is to bring joy to her fellow crew and guests onboard. All the while, she gets to explore the Caribbean shores and beautiful ports," she said. Even though Rover had been on the ship for just a short time, he did not fail to capture everyone’s heart. He enjoyed walks on the “lido” deck and even visited the Captain in The Bridge - a privilege reserved only for the select few. And, in no time, many other crew members chimed in on social media welcoming the doggo onboard. "We are absolutely thrilled to introduce our newest team member, Rover, who has joined us as a permanent resident aboard the magnificent Icon of the Seas," said  @godwin_fernandes2000.So much so, that even Royal Caribbean, the company behind the Icon of the Seas, posted about Rover on their own official account! Now, Rover found his new forever home – in the unlikeliest of all places: a cruise ship. And if you want to follow the adventures of this sea-faring puppy, be sure to check out his Instagram account  @chiefdogrover where they’ll be documented!

How Often Do Dogs Need to Go Out to Pee?

When nature calls, dogs answer. And when dogs answer, so do you – by taking them outside to do their business. In other words, if you have a potty-trained dog, they will rely on you to know when their bladder is full or at least to take them out frequently enough so it doesn’t get full in the first place. This leaves most owners with the question – how often do dogs need to go out to pee? You don’t want them to have an accident inside the home but you probably don’t want to take them out for a walk every hour or so (even if you did have the time for it) so it’s important to find the right balance. Here’s what you need to know so you can make it work for you and your dog.How Often Do Dogs Pee?The frequency at which dogs need to go out to pee can vary depending on several factors, including their age, breed, size, activity level, and overall health. In general, you can use the following guidelines as a starting point, but it's important to pay attention to your individual dog's needs and adjust accordingly. Sometimes, it’s enough to just observe the signs your dog gives you, like nudging you or standing by the door. But at other times, it requires a bit of “intervention”. When it comes to the connection between a dog’s age and their peeing habits, the younger the pooch, the more they need to go out. Puppies have smaller bladders and higher metabolisms, so they typically need to go out more frequently. A general rule of thumb is to take a puppy out every 1 to 2 hours, especially after eating, drinking, playing, or waking up from a nap. Make sure to let them know why you are going out so they’ll gradually relate walkies with peeing time.Adult dogs, on the other hand, can usually hold their bladders for longer periods. Most adult dogs need to go out every 4 to 6 hours. Some larger breeds may have more bladder capacity and can hold it longer, while smaller breeds may need to go out more frequently, so have that in mind too. Of course, as dogs age, their ability to hold their bladders may decrease. Senior dogs may need to go out more frequently, potentially every 3 to 4 hours. What is more, some senior dogs may suffer from incontinence, meaning that they can’t really control when or where they pee. In this case, you could  use disposable dog diapers until their condition improves or in periods when you’re not there to take them out more frequently and prevent accidents.

Study Finds Link Between Having a Dog and Girls' Physical Activity

A new study finds that having a furry companion at home could help promote healthy physical activity in children, especially young girls. According to research from the Telethon Kids Institute in Australia, getting a new dog or losing a furry companion is linked with a child’s level of physical activity. This new research shows that having a dog could help promote healthy movement behavior in children. The study's lead researcher, Emma Adams, highlights the positive influence of dog ownership on children’s activity levels, pointing to potential benefits that start from early childhood.“We saw a significant jump in daily physical activity in children whose families acquired a dog over the study period, while those whose families experienced the loss of a dog recorded a steep drop-off in activity,” added Adams.The research teams from Telethon Institute and the University of Western Australia followed 600 children aged between two and seven years old, over a three-year period to determine the impact dog ownership (or loss) has on physical activity levels.The results showed that getting a dog or losing a family companion is associated with significant changes in children’s activity levels. Surprisingly, young girls showed the most significant response.“The results were particularly noticeable in girls, with girls who acquired a dog increasing their light intensity activity and games by almost an hour a day (52 minutes).”“On the flipside, there was a marked drop in light intensity activity and games in girls who experienced the loss of a dog, with their activity dropping by 62 minutes a day,” said Adams according to Independant. Children wore accelerometers during waking hours for seven days at a time to measure sedentary time, screen time, and physical activity. Parents were also asked about their childrens’ activity levels. Half of the children participating in the study didn’t own a dog at any point during the study period, 204 children had a dog for the entire three years, 58 got a dog during the study period, and 31 children lost their furry companion during the course of the study.Data showed that girls who got a dog increased their light intensity activities and games by almost an hour a day (52 minutes). At the same time, girls who lost a dog experienced a decrease of 62 minutes a day in the same activities. Researchers observed that unstructured physical activity, such as walking with the dog or playing in the garden saw an increase for both boys and girls who got a dog during the study. “If we excluded dog walking and playing, there were no changes in the unstructured physical activity, so we could see the changes in physical activity were actually from the addition of those dog-related activities,” said Adams. On the other hand, children who lost their dog decreased their unstructured physical activity by 10.2 sessions a week for girls and 7.7 sessions for boys. “Regular physical activity from an early age is essential for children’s physical and mental health development, but few children or adolescents are meeting recommended daily levels. Our findings indicate that having a dog in the family could help promote healthy movement behaviors in children and reduce their short- and long-term risk of chronic disease.”Although this study discovered a positive link between dog ownership and increased physical activity Adams stresses that it’s not a call for everyone to get a dog. “It’s important to note that we’re not telling families to just go out and get a dog - having a dog comes with many responsibilities and won’t be right for everyone.”Instead, this study encourages dog owners to use canine companionship to increase physical activity. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

American Airlines Makes It Easier To Travel With Pets

They say to travel is to live, but deciding to leave a beloved pet at home can make you feel guilty - and bringing them along on an adventure can be tough on the bank account. No one truly wants to leave their four-legged best friend behind and figure out whether to hire a pet sitter or look for a boarding facility, but airlines don’t always make it easy for pet parents to travel with their fur babies.Finally, there’s some good news for pet parents and their four-legged companions! American Airlines has changed their pet policy, making it easier and more affordable for pet owners to fly with their fur babies.“On flights with American, you can bring one pet carrier as a carry-on if: You pay the carry-on pet fee; Your pet stays in the pet carrier and under the seat in front of you the entire flight,” shared American Airlines’ on their website. The company added that passengers can also bring “only one additional item on board with your pet” which can be a small personal item like a handbag or a purse, or a carry-on bag that meets the airline’s requirements and fits in the overhead bin compartment. The important thing to note is that you can only bring one with your pet carrier, not both.In the past, people who traveled with pets could only bring one small personal item abroad, which could fit under the seat. Anything bigger than that - for example, a larger carry-on bag that usually goes in the overhead bin - had to be checked, which was an additional $35. As an alternative, pet owners could transport their pets in the cargo hold if they wanted to take a bigger bag with them on the flight. Thanks to recent policy changes, people traveling with pets can now bring a pet aboard and choose whether they’ll travel with a carry-on bag or a personal item. At the same time, no changes to American Airlines' pet travel fee have been made. According to the company’s website, the fee remains fixed at $150 and applies per kennel, each way. For now, pet strollers must be checked at the ticket counter, and all checked bag fees apply. There are a few things to keep in mind before flying off into the sunset with your four-legged friend. All airlines are different. Every airline has its own policies for traveling with pets, so be sure to check the specific restrictions and fees on your flight before you book the tickets. Southwest, JetBlue, Delta, Alaska, and United are a few other airlines that allow pet travel, but each has its own travel requirements. Each airline specifies what pets can travel where. There are also limitations on the number of pets a passenger can bring abroad on different aircrafts. Only two pets in the same carrier can come aboard for American Airlines flights. Don’t forget that capacity is limited, meaning that checked pets are accepted on a first-come basis. Country-based restrictions also apply, and people traveling with pets should check and understand destination restrictions when traveling abroad.Lastly, whatever airline you decide to fly with, you have to find your pet an airline-compliant carrier. Without the right pet carrier, your fur baby won’t be able to fly on a plane with you. There is a lot to think about when traveling with a pet. But all will become worth it when you touch down and start making fun and exciting travel memories with your four-legged companion. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Research Finds That Rats Have Imagination

Do animals have imagination? Many people wonder if animals are capable of imagining things in their minds the same way that humans can. Could a rat, for example, use their imagination? Recent research has shown that, yes, they can, at least to a similar degree as people.

Can Counterconditioning Help My Reactive Dog?

Caring for and managing a reactive dog can be incredibly frustrating. Your dog may be a sweet angel at home, but they suddenly evolve into a barking, growling, lunging whirlwind when out in public.Luckily, there is hope!Overcoming reactivity is a process that will not happen overnight. However, dog trainers and behaviorists have seen great success with positive reinforcement techniques like counterconditioning.This article will explore how counterconditioning works, the steps involved in the process, realistic timelines and expectations, and tips for a successful journey toward a calmer, more confident dog. Get started today!What is Counterconditioning for Dogs?Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is counterconditioning, and why is it recommended for managing and treating reactive dogs?Counterconditioning is a behavioral modification technique that focuses on changing your dog’s emotional response to a specific stimulus.For example, some dogs feel fear and anxiety at the sight of another dog. This could be due to a lack of socialization, meaning they weren’t taught that other dogs can be friendly. It could also be a reaction to a past trauma, like having been attacked by another dog. In these situations, counterconditioning can be used to teach your dog that the sight of another dog leads to a positive experience.Why is this an effective approach for addressing reactivity? Reactivity, by definition, is an overreaction to a trigger. While this is often associated with fear or anxiety, some reactive dogs become overly excited. An overexcited dog may jump all over strangers not because they are trying to cause harm but because they are so excited to see them that they can’t control their response.If you have identified your dog’s triggers, you can use this training approach to teach them to respond in a new (and better) way.What Can Counterconditioning Be Used to Treat?Reactivity isn’t the only behavioral condition that can be treated with counterconditioning. This technique can be used to address a wide spectrum of situations in which a pet may be responding to a situation or trigger in an unwanted way.Some situations where it is commonly recommended include helping dogs overcome specific fears or phobias as well as managing or overcoming behaviors related to obsessive-compulsive disorder.Common fears that may be addressed with counterconditioning include: Fear of car ridesAnxiety when visiting the vetNoises (fireworks, thunder)Babies (especially the sound of crying)Strangers or other dogs in publicAllowing guests to enter their homePhysical triggers like cars or bicyclesDogs who dislike grooming, like brushing or having their nails trimmedIf you believe this approach may be helpful in your dog’s unique situation, we recommend speaking with a behaviorist.You can find professionals in your area by browsing the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists website list or the Animal Behavior Consultants Directory by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.

Is A Wet Dog's Nose Good or Bad?

A dog’s nose is their tool for discovering the world around them through scent, but dog noses are important for much more than sniffing – the state of your pet’s nose can sometimes be indicative of their health. It can be dry and flaky or wet and soft, so what is better? Is a dry nose a bad sign? Or a wet one? Or are they both normal? These are the questions that are often proving to be troubling for dog owners. So let’s try and answer them once and for all!Is A Wet Dog's Nose Good or Bad?A wet dog's nose is usually a sign of good health. Most often, the nose is wet because the doggo is licking it! They do this frequently in order to keep them clean and to enhance their sense of smell. In fact, a moist nose helps them trap scent particles more effectively. The moisture on their nose captures scent molecules from the air, allowing them to better identify and track smells. This ability is crucial for tasks such as hunting, tracking, and even detecting certain medical conditions in humans. 

Watch As Adorable Shelter Dogs Pick Their Own Christmas Toys

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

Are Dog Bars the New Dog Park?

Socializing with other pet parents over a cold one, just got easier!

Should My Dog Wear a Winter Coat?

As the temperatures drop and winter approaches, many pet parents face a common question: Should my dog wear a winter coat? It’s a valid question! After all, we bundle up before heading out into the ice and snow. Why shouldn’t our dogs? This article will explore the considerations, benefits, and potential downsides of winter coats for dogs. Plus, we’ll share the coats we use to keep our pups warm and cozy. Let’s get started… Do All Dogs Need a Coat in Winter? The short answer is no. Not all dogs need a winter coat to stay comfortable in the colder temperatures. In fact, some dogs will be more comfortable without a winter coat. That leaves us with one more question – how do you know if your dog will need a coat this season? Here are a few factors to consider: Breed & Coat LengthWhat breed or breed mix is your dog? Some dogs, like the Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, and Keeshond, were specifically bred to handle the colder temperatures. These dogs have thick double coats, including a water-resistant guard coat and a plush, warm undercoat. If you own one of these dogs, you may see them relaxing outside, happily napping in a snowbank. They thrive in cooler weather but struggle when the temperatures climb. On the other end of the spectrum, some dogs were bred to live in warmer climates. These dogs have short coats, offering little protection from the winter cold. Age Your dog’s age could make them more sensitive to changes in temperature, both heat and cold. If you have a young puppy or a senior dog, they may need a little extra care and attention. Not only do they feel cold faster, but the low temperatures could worsen the discomfort of a senior dog’s arthritis or other joint problems. Even if your dog once thrived in cold temperatures, they may struggle in their older years.Disease or Illness If your dog is currently living with a disease or illness, it can compromise their ability to regulate their body temperature effectively. Your dog’s condition can impact many aspects of their well-being. It may weaken their immune system, causing dehydration or interfering with proper circulation. Contact your veterinarian if you’re unsure whether your dog’s illness could impact their ability to handle the cold. Activity LevelAre you heading outside to hang out in your yard, or are you planning to engage in something more active like a hike or skijoring? As your dog’s muscles are engaged and working, they are producing heat that raises the body temperature. If your dog occasionally needs a light jacket, they may not need one during heavy activity. On the other hand, if your dog is usually okay when you’re going for a walk, they may need a light jacket or sweater if they are going to be standing around.

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