Global Pet Expo 2020 Day 2: The Furry Fun Continues

by Lori Ennis

February 27th, 2020 12:00 AM

global pet expo 2020 day 2 the furry fun continues

Day two of Global Pet Expo was just as anticipated…full of pets, pet parents, pet education and the best of pet products. It’s a ruff life looking for the top products for man’s best friend, but somebody’s gotta do it!

Of course, we saw lots of animals. Lots of different types of animals. Puppies told us that they like to be the stars of the show, but we were pretty wowed with some fish…

And some adorable kittens playing in the Catit section…

But of course, we saw some adorable puppies too!

As much as we wanted to play with all the animals, we did have work to do, so we set off to find the coolest pet products Global had to offer. We found our friends at Jiminy’s. You may remember last year we told you all about their sustainable protein treats made of crickets. Yes, crickets.

They’ve introduced food now, and in doing so, they save hundreds of thousands of gallons of water a year, as well as untold amounts of landfill preservation with their sustainable packaging.

We met new friends, like the incredible treat makers at The Doggie Express. According to Top Executive Dawg Adam, Doggie Express came to be when Adam’s moms realized that the ingredients in the treats Adam and his furry pack members were eating were full of artificial flavors and ingredients. They hired a pastry chef and worked with the Culinary Institute LeNotre and The University of Houston and the result were these delicious, organic, natural treats that dogs love. Doggie Express donates to local charities and educates at events to teach people about good nutrition for dogs, and they make gorgeous treats!

We also found a great company that is committed to protecting the paws of our precious pooches! Poochy Pawz makes fabulous booties for pets that keep their feet protected from the elements. More, they help keep pet paws clean, and that means they’re not dragging in all sorts of bacteria and germs that they then rub all over your pillow as they settle in for a nap! Poochy Paws come in super cute patterns.

As we walked, we loved seeing all the innovations that pet product companies brought to Global. For instance, we spoke to the team at Pet Strips. You know how getting your dog to take his or her supplements takes nothing short of a miracle? Not anymore with Pet Strips. These babies help deliver supplements to your dog with the power of letting them dissolve on their tongue! A traditional supplement chew or pill breaks down and your pet may lose anywhere between 80-90% of the bioavailability of the supplement. Pet Strips hit the spot, literally, way faster, bypass the digestive system altogether and make the impact stronger and faster.

More pet parents than ever are becoming label readers and looking to be sure that what goes into and onto their pets are clean and healthy. Earth Animal is committed to using what Mother Nature gave to treat animals and the planet. They believe in loving and nurturing the life of pets by making pet products that consider social and environmental impact. Their herbal remedies are an excellent option for natural pet parents.

Speaking of natural pet parents, we LOVED BioDoGradable’s BioComPet’s pet poop composter. Not only will it compost your organic waste, but it’ll also compost your pup’s poop and give you some free fertilizer in the process! The BioDoGradable bags are made of corn, and you literally put your dog’s poop bag in the composter and 24-48 hours later, have fertilizer for your garden and no poop to worry about!

We made sure we kept a little time for play, of course. Check out the Wicked Ball! It’s the first smart interactive pet toy that can keep your pet busy while you are away. It’s 100% automatic and has an obstacle avoidance system to help make sure it doesn’t get lost or stuck while you’re gone. It’ll stop after half an hour of interaction so your pets don’t get overtired, and it won’t get stuck under the bed or the sofa. Huzzah!

We found a little time to play too, hanging out with Loopy Llama over at PetLinks Brand.

But at the end of the day, we can’t lie. We got to see so many amazing things, but like Chase here, we’re dog tired!

Lori Ennis

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Global Pet Expo 2020 Day 1: For All The Furry Friends

Global Pet Expo is always an incredible event. We see old furry friends, meet new paw-some friends, and of course—find the best pet products around! We started the day off with an inspirational session led by Merrick and K9 For Warriors. The two organizations have been partners for several years, forging a relationship based on shared values and the belief that dogs are incredible for so many different reasons. We got to hear from K9 For Warriors CEO Rory Diamond, who shared that not only has the K9 For Warriors/Merrick partnership helped veterans return to civilian life, but they’ve helped propel research that shows therapeutic benefit for veterans. This research has been the backbone for legislation that will help enable veterans to receive therapy dogs that are covered by the Veteran’s Association. The most heartwarming thing to learn was that the majority of the dogs trained for K9 For Warriors are rescue dogs, proving that good boys (and girls) come in shapes, sizes and breeds. Related: 2019 Global Pet Expo Hits Record Numbers We then spent the day checking out all the amazing pet products. The New Product Showcase had a little something for all our pet companions—dogs, cats, fish, chickens. If it’s a pet product, it’s here at Global and the New Product Showcase didn’t disappoint.

Dog Bike Basket – Snazzy Jazzy Pet Rattan Pet Bike Basket

This Dog Bike Basket is perfect to ensure your bicycle is built for two I like to bike, but my dog is too small to run alongside. I can’t put him in a regular bike basket – if I go over a big bump or stop suddenly, he may fall out and get hurt. What’s a joy-riding cyclist to do? A dog bike basket fits the bill perfectly. This dog bike basket has a wire lid that attaches with three leather straps to hold my pup securely. That’s why I was overjoyed to find the Rattan Pet Bike Basket from Snazzy Jazzy Pet. This dog bike basket has a wire lid that attaches with three leather straps to hold my pup securely. The basket is hand-crafted from durable natural rattan, so it stands up to the weather and there’s a snuggly, washable fleece pad so my dog can enjoy the ride. The Rattan Bike Basket will easily attach and detach from handle bars, thanks to its quick-release brackets. This dog bike basket is made for pets that weigh up to eight pounds. And I’m pretty sure that it’s not meant for competitive cyclist, which is perfect for my purposes – I just like to enjoy the scenery on my leisurely rides. The Rattan Pet Bike Basket sells for $100 at the Snazzy Jazzy Pet website.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever Basics Some dog breeds need to be sold to potential dog owners as they might not be familiar with the intricacies of what makes those particular pups special. Other breeds are so legendary that the name is a selling point in and of itself. Enter the Labrador Retriever. The reputation of this beloved breed speaks for itself. There’s a reason why suburbs are filled with these fine animals and why seemingly every family wants to bring one into their homes. These dogs live up to the hype. Labrador Retrievers are among the most popular dog breeds out there today for a reason. Loyal, easy to get along with, and easy to train, these retrievers could be considered a neighborhood classic all around the United States and even in other parts of the world. It’s hard to find anything negative to say about these remarkable pooches and they are guaranteed to remain family favorites for generations to come. But what exactly makes Labrador Retrievers such popular and well-respected dogs? Does a strong breed always mean that a Labrador Retriever will be the right dog for you? The answers to these questions and many more can be found below. So if you’ve ever considered bringing home a Lab Retriever, you’ve come to the right place. Keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away. By the end of this article, you’ll either be racing out to get a Lab or beginning your search for a new breed. But what exactly makes them such popular, well-respected dogs… and does a strong breed always mean that a Labrador Retriever will be the right dog for you? Origin Canadian in decent, Labrador Retrievers originated in Newfoundland, having descended from the St. John’s Water Dog around the 16th century. The smaller versions of the St. John’s Water Dog were often used to retrieve as well as pull in fishing nets, giving this breed of dog a true working class background. Many people will observe that the personality of Labrador Retrievers is a strong indication of this background. These dogs are happiest when performing a task with their humans, after all. Descending from Portuguese, English, and Irish breeds, the Labrador Retriever could be considered a classic “blue-collar” dog. It is not quite on par with some hunting dogs, but certainly one of the more favorable “working” dog breeds available out there today. More recent history through previous centuries brought the Labrador Retriever back to England where it became a popular sporting and hunting dog. These dogs may have started in Canada, but they belong to the world now. Pedigree

Why You Should Adopt a Dog From a Shelter

Complete your family and adopt a dog from a shelter If you’re looking to add another member to your family, you should adopt a dog from a shelter. There are thousands of dogs looking for a forever home and chances are you’ll find a loving companion that will give you and your family years of unconditional love. Many people are reluctant to adopt a dog from a shelter for various reasons. After all, there’s a stigma attached. These dogs were given up because they have “issues”. But these so-called issues were caused by a deficiency in the human owner – lack of leadership, exercise and training. In the right home, you’ll find that many of the issue disappear with the right amount of love, patience and attention. One of the many great things about a dog is that it lives in the moment. That means they forget the past and can’t wait to get to the fun the future holds for them. Sure, the previous owner might have thought that this dog was broken, so it was traded in until they could get a “perfect” dog. But when you adopt a dog from a shelter, that adult pooch you have your eye on in the shelter is ready for a fresh start. If you treat this dog right, you’ll find it has so much more potential than the previous owner saw. The best reason to adopt a dog from a shelter – you’ve just made a loyal friend for life. Before you even go to adopt a dog from a shelter, you need to decide the right kind of dog for your family. Is there a certain breed that works better for your home environment and lifestyle? Do you have kids and other animals in the household? Do you have an active or sedentary lifestyle? Can you step up to the plate and be the leader your dog needs? These are all important questions you need to answer before you adopt a dog from a shelter. Once you’ve come up with a general game plan, it’s time to start visiting rescue shelters. Don’t just focus your energies on one – be sure to get to several shelters in order to see a wide range of dogs. We know that you’re excited, but you don’t have to bring home a dog on your first day out. You’re not doing the dog or your family any favors if you choose based on a first impression, and you end up returning it. In fact, it may hinder that dog from being adopted by another family – dogs that keep getting returned have a greater chance of being put down. When you find a potential dog, approach the cage carefully and calmly so it sniff you. Don’t be alarmed if a shelter dog growls or barks at you – it may be wary of strangers, especially since so many come through the shelter every day. Take the dog out of its cage (with the assistance of the shelter staff, or course) and take it for a walk. Keep in mind that this dog probably has some pent up energy and is raring to go (hey, you would too if you were kept in a cage all day). After you pick the right pound puppy, it’s time to sort out all the paperwork and take your dog home. Check to see that all of its health records and procedures are in order so you have everything you need for your regular vet. Be sure to check out our article on what you should do to make the transition from the pound to your home a smooth one. And the best reason to adopt a dog from a shelter – you’ve just made a loyal friend for life.

Poodle

Poodle Basics When you think of a poodle, what kind of dog do you think of? Many of us immediately imagine the Toy Poodle. However, that is only one of the many types of Poodle out there. Sure, the Toy Poodle is iconic, but as a breed, the Poodle has a surprising amount of variety and versatility. Poodles can be athletic, rambunctious, energetic – just about anything under the sun. At least relative to the expectations of Poodles that many people bring to the table. People are far too willing to put the Poodle in a box of limited expectations. The Poodle deserve more respect than that. They are such a rich and exciting dog breed filled with possibilities. Hopefully over time, The Poodle will finally get the respect that they deserve as one of the most exciting, versatile, and intelligent dog breeds around. The Poodle is an extremely smart dog, ranking second only below the Border Collie as the most intelligent dog breed. They are highly-trainable and make excellent service and therapy dogs. As family pets and companions, these popular dogs are loving, playful and even a bit mischievous. You’ll never be bored with a Poodle by your side. In fact, you’ll have to keep an eye on your Poodle companion to make sure that they don’t use those big and powerful brains to get up to trouble. While a lot of people might think of Poodles as the epitome of a lapdog with an elaborate hairstyle, these dogs come in all sizes- from toy to standard Poodles that weigh up to 70 pounds. If you want to find out which type of Poodle is the right one for you- or if the breed is a good match for your family in the first place- read on. As you may have gathered by now, there are so many different types of Poodles out there that almost impossible that that there won’t be one that can fit into your lifestyle. As a breed, this dog has a surprising amount of variety and versatility. Origin The Poodle might seem like a posh show dog, but these dogs actually started out as working dogs (generally as water retrievers, or “gun dogs”). Their original role was to assist hunters in retrieving waterfowl (such as ducks) from the water. Their curly coat, which is now primped up for dog shows, was valued for its moisture-resistant qualities. The German word “pudel,” in fact, actually refers to all the splashing these pips would get up to during any hunt. The English word “Poodle” was derived from it. Even though the breed originated in 19th century Germany, the standard was perfected in France, which considers Poodle to be a national dog breed. These dogs are now known primarily as show dogs and pets. Selective breeding had a great deal to do with this change in perception. There are three varieties of Poodle, and according to the American Kennel Club, the oldest of these varieties is the large or ‘Standard’ variety. The Poodle was bred to have a water-resistant coat – which helps explain the quality of the current dog’s coat – that was eventually groomed and patterned according to taste and style rather than worrying simply about functionality. Other types of Poodle today include Toy and Miniature. Although they retain the main traits of their full-sized relatives, their compact size makes them a perfect fit for condo and apartment dwellers. They are generally quite well behaved pooches who can get on well within a small space and can be left alone for extended periods of time without causing too much trouble. Other types of Poodle today include Toy and Miniature. Pedigree

Top 10 Best Small Dog Breeds for Kids

The kids have been begging you for one, but you live in cramped quarters. It might seem impossible for you to bring a dog into your family, but trust us. This is not a problem. You just need a dog that will fit your small space. Here are our choices for the top 10 best small dog breeds for kids. All kids love dogs. That’s a fact. The only problem is that not all dogs are well suited to be around children. So, if it’s time to grow your family with a pet for the kids, but they’re still young, your backyard is small (or non-existent), and you aren’t sure which breed would be the right fit, there is a simple solution. Small dogs. They are like big dogs, just smaller (what a concept!). However, small dogs don’t always have the best reputation. Rumour has it that little dogs can be high-strung and aren’t good with kids. Thankfully, that’s just a rumour. Sure, there are some little dogs out there who won’t mix well with children, but there are also big dogs with the same problems. It all comes down to finding the right dog to fit your family. There are a number of pint-sized pooches that will ably fit the bill an mix with kiddos. It’s just important to keep in mind that you’ll want a dog that is sturdy enough to withstand the rough-and-tumble playtime a child will deliver, is friendly, even-tempered, and more importantly, is easy for both you and your kids to train. Always remember that establishing kids as mini-alphas through early training is crucial in order to ensure their commands are obeyed (especially if walking the family pet will become part of their current or future responsibilities). So, while choosing the right dog to fit in with your family is important, it’s equally important to train your pup properly so that it fits in well with your entire family. Nature and nurture both play important roles finding the perfect pupper match for any family. With these criteria in mind, here are our picks for 10 best small dog breeds for kids. All of these adorable little fur babies has the potential to be the perfect pooch for your home. 10. Miniature Bull Terrier

Bouvier Des Flandres

Bouvier des Flandres Basics Always an adventurer, the Bouvier des Flandres has rugged good looks and is generally ready and raring to do almost anything. His rough and tumble looks are a mere reflection of his incredible personality. With an inherent work ethic, the Bouvier des Flandres will herd livestock or children. It is essential that he has a job to do or he can become unhappy, bored and destructive. For an active and assertive family, the Bouvier could be a perfect companion. He is loyal and protective of his family, as he considers them to be his flock. Great care should be taken when strangers are present as Bouviers can become aggressive toward them. To learn more about the Bouvier des Flandres, please continue reading. Always an adventurer, the Bouvier des Flandres has rugged good looks and is generally ready and raring to do almost anything. Origin Originating in the Northern region of France and the Flemish sector of Belgium, the Bouvier des Flandres was developed by butchers, farmers and ranchers. They wanted to create a dog that excelled at herding their livestock, particularly cattle hence, gaining the nicknames of koehond (cow dog) and toucheur de boeuf (cattle driver). Although the Bouvier des Flandres is still quite comfortable working on a farm, he is also quite content sleeping on a bed in the suburbs. Pedigree

Why Do Cats Love to Sunbathe?

Cats seek out warm spots — from sunshine streaming through the windows to a cozy spot atop a heat vent. But even with all their fur, why do cats crave warmth? You would think with all that fur that cats would overheat easily, but every morning, I find my cats stretched out in any ray of sun coming through the windows — and I keep my house pretty warm year-round. I myself get cold easily, and it seems so do my cats. In fact, even the mildest of winters is too cold for cats to stay outside year-round — and apparently so is my 75- to 80-degree house. I find this puzzling, as cats have a higher body temperature than us humans. While normal body temperature for cats varies somewhat depending on breed and age, the average cat has a temperature of 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit, compared to humans’ average 98.6 degrees. So why do cats crave warmth? First Off, Not All Kitties Like Being Warm All the Time Turns out, not all cats crave warmth as much as others. Long-haired cats tend to conserve body heat easier than short-haired cats, unsurprisingly, so short hairs are more often found sunbathing. Come to think of it, all my cats are short hairs. But overall, cats do seek warm spots — from sunshine streaming through the windows to a cozy spot atop a heat vent to snuggling up with me under a blanket. There are a couple reasons why. Why Cats Look for Warm Spots in the House Below, we’ll take a look at some of the many reasons why your feline companion might want to find the warmest spot in the house all year long. Of course, every cat is an individual, so this might not be the case for every one of your kitties, but these are just a few of the general reasons that cats enjoy sunbathing. Genetics Let’s start by looking at genetics. Research on cat DNA has shown that domesticated cats evolved from a wild species, Felis sylvestris, that lives in Africa, Europe, and Asia. The genetic line of all of our feline friends goes back about 10,000 years ago to wild cat populations in the Middle East, specifically Egypt, Israel, Iraq, Syria, and Cyprus — desert country. So, it’s pretty hot there. It stands to reason that our cats crave warmth because genetically they are desert creatures and they lose heat easily because of their body’s traits to live in such a hot climate. Diet Combine these genetics with their protein-rich diet — protein just doesn’t work the same way as carbohydrates in terms of energy conservation — and this doesn’t afford much extra energy that can go to keeping cats warm when their environment is just a little chillier than for which they are biologically designed. So, sunbathing might also be helping your kitty’s body conserve some energy too. To Stay Warm While Sleeping When your kitty goes to sleep, her body temperature drops a bit, so she might start to feel a little chilly. For this reason, she might prepare for a nap by first finding a warm and cozy spot, such as one where there is plenty of sunshine, to settle down. The sun will be there to keep her body warm while she’s snoozing, helping her stay nice and comfortable. You might even notice that, if she wakes up and notices that the sunbeam has moved, she’ll shift her position so she’s back in the sunlight. Warning: Cats Can Overheat! Sure, there are a lot of kitties out there that won’t miss the chance to lounge and relax in a sunbeam, but do keep in mind that cats can overheat. That’s right: kitties can develop hyperthermia. Also, it is important to realize that your kitty can sweat only through her paw pads when she gets too hot. Other than that, she can pant to try to regulate her body temperature when she gets overheated. It is important to keep an eye out for signs that your pet needs to be cooled down as soon as possible. Failing to do so could cause the condition to worsen, leading to serious problems like seizures, organ damage, coma, or death. What are some of the signs that your cat is overheating? When your cat begins to feel overheated, it starts off as heat exhaustion but could become heat stroke. Keep an eye out for symptoms like the following: PantingSweaty paw padsRestlessnessDroolingRapid breathingFast pulseLethargyStumblingVomitingRed mouth and tongueElevated body temperature Take steps to prevent your kitty from overheating Never leave your cat in a vehicle on a hot day, as this would easily become a life-threatening situation. Otherwise, you don’t generally have to worry about your cats if they themselves seek out a stifling hot area. If your cat spends time outside on hot days, though, make sure she always has access to cool areas that are shaded, and give her plenty of clean water that she can drink whenever she wants. Better yet, let her in your house so she doesn’t run the risk of overheating. In the same way that you wouldn’t leave your cat in a hot car, avoid keeping her in an area of your home that gets too hot. Give her a cool place to move to when she feels the need. And if your home becomes too hot for any reason, such as if your air conditioner breaks, take your kitty to a cool, safe place with the rest of your family. Let Your Cat Sunbathe If She Wants To! Apparently sunbathing is as close to desert-living as my cats can get. So despite their fur coats, cats have to do more work to keep their bodies as warm as they are genetically designed to do — and we humans need to be mindful of that, like not expecting cats to live outside in the winter without cozy, warm places to sleep. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy — just a modified dog house will do if insulated with straw and blankets, kept in an out-of-the-wind area. Serving several meals of slightly warm cat food and warm water during the day also helps make the winter months a little more comfortable for barn cats and feral cats that can’t be kept inside. As for my home, I have two barn cats that live outside most of the year, but in the winter, they can come inside. I keep them in their own room overnight, as my two house cats aren’t keen about sharing their home with them, but the barn cats are allowed out to roam the house while supervised to ensure that all cat relations are positive — even while sunbathing.

Do Dogs Feel Empathy?

At times, there are moments when you think that your dog knows exactly how you feel. But are dogs really capable of feeling empathy? When you’re having a bad day, nothing can cheer you up faster than the sight of your dog happily greeting you at the door. In your dog’s mind, nothing can go wrong when you’re there and all he wants is to spend time with you. But how does your dog know when you’re upset and is it really possible that a dog can experience empathy? Is a Dog Capable of Experiencing Empathy? Think back to a time when you were particularly stressed or upset. How did your dog respond? In many cases, dog owners report that when they’re feeling emotionally upset, their dogs choose that moment to show them some extra love. In this situation, what many dog owners interpret as their dog showing empathy, psychologists and behavioral biologists may interpret as something else. Related: What are Alternative Canine Energy Healing Techniques? Animal behaviorists generally agree that a dog has the emotional and mental capacity of a two- or three-year-old child. While some children may begin to show signs of empathy around this age, most do not truly develop empathy until they are four years old. What these psychologists and behavioral biologists believe is really happening is something called emotional contagion – this is when an individual responds to someone else’s emotions without really understanding them. As an example of emotional contagion, consider the example of a daycare center where one child starts to cry and other children start to cry as well. In this example, the other children are not showing empathy – they’re simply responding to the other child’s emotional state in a similar way without really understanding why. This is what those psychologists believe is happening when your dog sees you acting upset – he becomes upset and he himself becomes upset. When he comes over and nuzzles your arm or puts him head on your lap, it is because he is seeking comfort for himself – he is not trying to comfort you. What you choose to believe is up to you – there is no clear-cut way to really understand what is happening in a dog’s brain to explain why he does what he does. Can a Dog Empathize with Other Dogs? Empathy is defined as the ability to interpret the emotions of another person (or animal), but that is not all. It also involves understanding and even sharing those same emotions. In order to believe that a dog can show empathy for another dog, you have to believe that dogs are capable of emotion. Related: What Emotions Do Dogs Actually Experience? There are plenty of studies that show the ability of dogs to read the emotions of humans and it has also been shown that dogs can form true friendships with one another. But when a dog responds in kind to a dog who is experiencing distress, what is really happening? It is certainly an interesting question, but more research is needed to determine the answer. Dogs are amazing creatures and we humans have only begun to scratch the surface of understanding them. But you don’t have to understand everything that your dog does in order to love him. You love him because he is your best friend and faithful companion – that’s all you really need to know.

Study: Pup Parents Plaster Social Media With Dog Pics

There’s no denying it – we use social media to update the world on our everything we love. New information shows that pooch parents tend to use social media for pet postings approximately once a day! People love their pets. Really love their pets. This shows in the exponential increases in pet product sales and offerings in the last few years. As part of a second study done late last year by BarkBox, new research shows that dog owners are peppering their social media accounts with pictures of their dogs, and creating more and more social media pages dedicated solely to their pups. Last year’s study showed that pet parents were happier and healthier on average when compared to surveyed non-pet parents. The results of this second part focused on how dog parents behave on social media when it comes to posts and information sharing about their pets. Related: Study: Dogs Respond to Baby Talk Cementing the belief that Americans are dog-obsessed (and, um, why wouldn’t we be???), the BarkBox study found that on average, dog owners use social media accounts to post a picture or talk about their dog about six times a week–essentially an average of about a post a day is somehow related to their dog. More, the study found that on average, dog parents watch a dog video or look at dog pictures at least three times a week in various social media formats. Add to that finding that one in ten pet-people (of 1006) surveyed even created and maintain a unique social media account solely for their dog, and it seems that America is goo-goo for it’s dogs! When looking more specifically at the pictures taken by pooch-parents of their dogs, the study found that 20% of the pictures on cellular phones are of their dogs–which is higher than the percentage of pictures of trips or vacations (15%) or selfies of themselves (15%) also found on their phones. Additionally more than 42% of dog people polled use a photo of their dog as their screensaver/wall photo on their mobile devices or computer desktops. Related: Study: Millennials Make Up a Quarter of all Pet Owners The study also found that Millennials had a tendency to use technology like webcams to keep an eye on and get ‘fixes’ of their pups when not together, over non-Millennials (24% vs 13%). Millennials are actually nearly three times as likely to Skype or Facetime their dogs (23% vs. 8%) than their older counterparts, indicating that a younger generation more familiar with current technology makes the most of ways to keep in contact with their dogs even when physically separated. Being separated from one’s dog is often a reality due to the regular obligations of life, and so to ease the concern when apart, over 30% of pet parents say they have a security camera (or cameras) for their residences that they mostly use as a way to keep an eye on their dog. So, go ahead…post pictures of Fido chewing on his favorite bone in the middle of the day for everyone to ooohhh and ahhhh over! You’ll be in great company!

FDA Warns Pet Parents About Skin Cancer Cream

The FDA is warning pet parents to be careful about certain skin cancer treatment creams, after five dogs who accidentally ingested the topical medication have died. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning pet parents to keep skin cancer treatment cream away from their dogs, as it would likely kill them if ingested. The cream under caution is called Fluorouracil and is also sold under the names of Carac, Efudex and Fluroplex. FDA officials cited a case where two dogs were playing with a tube of the fluorouracil and one of the dogs punctured the tube before his owner could get take it away. According to officials, the dog that punctured the tube started vomiting, had seizures, and was dead 12 hours later. Related: Top 10 Common Household Products Poisonous for Dogs Another case cited a situation where a dog got into his owner’s tube of Fluorouracil and ingested the cream. Once the dog’s owner realized what had happened, he rushed his pet to the veterinarian, but it was too late. The dog became ill and had to be euthanized. As a result, the FDA recommends that people who use the creams, which contain a drug that kills fast-growing cells that include some types of skin cancer or pre-cancerous skin growths, to put the medications where their pets can not reach them, and to be careful when applying the creams to parts of the body, as even small amounts can be extremely hazardous to pets. Though no cases of illnesses in cats have been reported, the FDA still cautions all pet owners. Cats may accidentally ingest the creams if touching/licking areas of their human’s body that are treated with the creams, and then in turn, groom themselves and possibly get sick as well. Related: Top 5 Indoor Plants Poisonous To Cats The FDA also continues to recommend pet owners keep medicines away from areas that animals can reach, and advise you to safely discard (or clean well) any cloth or applicator that is used when applying creams. Finally, please ensure there are no residues of any of the medications on their hands, carpeting or furniture. If you are currently using any of the medications containing Fluorouracil, and your pet is exposed or shows symptoms such as vomiting or seizing, you should consult a veterinarian as soon as possible. Doing so could make the life or death difference for your pet.

Persian Puss’s Amazing Transformation Will Make You Smile [Video]

Move over, Grumpy Cat! There’s a new sour-looking puss in town… and his unbelievable transformation will make your heart happy! A very special Persian cat named Sinbad started 2017 in a very different way than he ended 2016. Neglected in his elderly owner’s basement in Chicago, Illinois, Sinbad’s fur turned into a monstrous mess of mats and filth. His fur was tangled so much that his movement was restricted, and he was clearly suffering. A utilities worker doing maintenance on the home contacted Chicago’s Anti-Cruelty Society, and their humane investigation team looked into the neglect. They found Sinbad in a cold, filthy basement, covered in dirt and garbage, and his fur was a matted mess. Sinbad’s owner’s mental health was declining and he simply couldn’t care for Sinbad anymore, according to Colette Bradley of the Anti-Cruelty Society. The organization’s investigators asked the owner to relinquish custody to their care, and when he agreed, Sinbad’s new life began. Sinbad had essentially been living in his own furry prison. It took two rounds of close hair-cutting and bathing to clean Sinbad up, and once they did, he immediately showed that a load had been lifted from him–a five-pound load, to be exact. Sinbad had been carrying around five pounds tangled fur, and once it was gone, his personality started to shine.

Olde English Bulldogge

Olde English Bulldogge BasicsSome people want a new a shiny designer dog. A pup that looks lit and possibly even a little extra to suit their 21st century lifestyle. Other people aren’t so concerned with new and flashy canine aesthetics. They are seeking something a littler more classic. Something old enough that “old” will have to be spelled with an extra “e.” For this special breed of dog owner, there’s only one option. The Olde English Bulldogge is such a classic and old timey designer dog that even the word “dog” comes with an extra “e.” This is the perfect pup to suit anyone with a willfully analogue lifestyle. It goes well with a vinyl, VHS, scotch, and classic paperback collection.The Olde English Bulldogge is a strong and attractive canine that makes a wonderful family pet. If you are on the lookout for a companion that will love you fiercely and protect you from anyone who looks suspicious, this breed could be the perfect fit. Will this special and compact pup make a perfect match with you and your family? There’s only one way to find out. Keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away. Everything that you could possibly want to know about the Olde English Bulldogge will be revealed. By the end of this article, you’ll either be racing out to your nearest designer dog breeder or searching for another doggy option.The Olde English Bulldogge is a cross between a purebred English Bulldog, American Bulldog, American Pit Bull Terrier, and Bullmastiff.Origin The Olde English Bulldogge is a designer dog breed from the United States. The origin and the creation of the breed are somewhat unique because the ultimate goal was not to create a new dog breed from scratch, but rather re-create a centuries-old breed. The Olde English Bulldogge was developed by David Leavitt in 1971, who crossed an English Bulldog with an American Bulldog, Pitbull, and Bullmastiff. His goal was to develop a canine that had the looks of the 18th century Bulldog and the personality of the modern English Bulldog. He also wanted to ensure the breed wouldn’t have breathing problems. That’s a complex goal for any dog breeder. Did David Leavitt succeed in his lofty plans? Let’s find out…Pedigree

8 Tips to Hiring an In-Home Pet Sitter

If your pet isn’t cherishing the idea of a week-long stay the next time you go away, consider an in-home pet sitter. Here are a few things to check off when looking for the right fit. Whether your fur-kid is a lone child or one of many, sending him off to “pet camp” while the rest of the family goes on vacation can be a stressful time that includes a change in routine, unfamiliar faces and new surroundings. For many pet owners, the solution is an in-home pet sitter. The benefits to a home sitter are numerous and include not only that your pets get to remain healthy and stress-free in familiar surroundings, but that your home remains inhabited – which keeps the insurance companies happy. The right pet sitter will build a bond with your pets, recognizing if they are acting “off” and a visit to the vet may be required, noticing when they need a little extra attention, when they want to play and when they just want to snuggle. Related: How to Hire the Right Pet Sitter for your Frisky Feline So where do you begin to hire someone to come into your personal space and take care of the most precious beings in your life? Here are some tips: Referrals: Speak with your veterinarian, friends, family, neighbors and your dog trainer. Who have they used and why are they comfortable recommending them.Training and Qualifications: Do they have experience pilling a pooch, are they familiar with the special quirks of your pet’s breed, with large dogs, older cats, multi-dogs; anything that might make your situation unique to a sitter.Insurance and Bonding: An insured pet sitter should have documents showing proof of commercial liability (in case your pet injures someone) and be bonded (to protect you from theft). Don’t take their word for it -ask for written proof. References: Past clients should be happy to provide your sitter with a reference and you should plan to contact these clients with further questions.Back Up: What happens if the sitter becomes sick and cannot walk your dog or provide the services you expected. Do they have a back-up person?On the Clock: For live-in sitters, how long do you expect them to spend with your pet? Early morning and evening for cats? All day for dogs? If they walk other dogs, are you comfortable with your pooch joining the pack or do you prefer one-on-one?Communication: What is the agreed upon method and timing (if at all) to provide updates while you’re away? If your pet is frail or older, you may want regular text messages or emails. Do you want her to log your pet’s daily behaviors for when you return so you can spot any irregularities or change in his mood?Test Run: Before you seal the deal and embark on that three week trip to Far East Asia, do a test run. Take off for a weekend and have the sitter care for your pet. Together you can spot and resolve any problems or questions that may crop up and your pets have the chance to become familiar with this new person in their live

Poochin

Poochin Basics Also referred to as the Chinpoo, Chindoodle, and Doodlechin, the Poochin is a fantastic breed for just about everyone. These loyal little dogs will not disappoint, as they are loving and eager to please you. But to find out if the Poochin really is the right choice for your family, keep reading to learn more about this popular breed. The Poochin is a cross between a purebred Japanese Chin and Poodle. Origin The Poochin is a designer dog breed whose origins aren’t entirely clear. Pedigree

Adoptable Dog of the Week - Chloe

This little love bug is looking for someone to give her the happy ending she deserves! Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Chloe, a five years old Yorkshire Terrier mix from Waxhaw, North Carolina. She is spayed, housetrained, up to date on her vaccines, and microchipped. Chloe is a big-hearted girl that does well with other dogs and cats and loves being around kids. Chloe’s TaleThis tiny girl weighs only 8 pounds even though she’s fully grown – but even though she’s petite, she has a big personality and an even bigger heart. Chloe is very affectionate and would love nothing more than to be adopted by a family who will hang out with her, hold her and give her all the attention she craves! She will always want to be near you, even more so if you’re up for some belly rubs. Ideally, her new owner(s) would work from home or at least spend plenty of time with her – maybe a retiree looking for a loving companion in their golden years? Chloe also loves going on morning walks, so this might be a perfect opportunity to establish some healthy habits!Chloe’s sweetness isn’t reserved for her people alone – she’ll quickly warm up to anyone that treats her kindly and tends to get along with other pets, too, both cats and dogs, as long as they have a similar friendly disposition. She’d do well in a family with kids, too, as long as the children are respectful and are aware that they shouldn’t pick her up as she’s fragile due to her tiny size.If this little lady has stolen your heart, contact Carolina PAWS - Pet Adoption and Welfare Society to learn more about her and the adoption process. Fingers crossed – whoever gets to share their life with Chloe can count themselves lucky! 

American Bulldog

American Bulldog Basics He may have its roots in fighting and working, but the American Bulldog is a big old softie at heart. Now, you’ll find him as a much-loved companion in many households in North American and around the world. He’ll keep a watchful eye over the family and work his tail off all day, but he’s just as content to curl up at your feet on the couch. When trained and socialized on time, the American Bulldog is a friendly, loving dog that fits in well with families of all shapes and sizes. They are very active, though, and will do best with an owner who can meet their exercise requirements. As a large dog with a working background, the American Bulldog will not be the best choice for a first-time dog owner. An experienced owner who can assert themselves as the leader of the pack is an absolute must. If you’ve got enough energy to keep up with this active breed, as well as enough attention to give, the American Bulldog may be the perfect fit for your family. He does best in a household with no other animals, but will protect and guard his family with his life. Read on to learn more about this wonderful breed and decide if this is the right dog for you. It may have its roots in fighting and working, but the American Bulldog is a big old softie at heart. Origin Making its way into the United States in the 1800s, immigrants brought their working Bulldogs with them in order to make life in the new country easier. This breed was especially popular in the Southern States, thanks to its ability to bring down and catch feral pigs. As the working dog of farmers and ranchers, the American Bulldog was also used for bull-, buffalo- and bear-baiting. During WWII, the breed almost died out, but could still be found as cattle and livestock dogs and farm protectors in the south-east. But thanks to a man named John D. Johnson of Summerville, Georgia, he saved the breed from extinction by selecting the best of the breed he could find and started a selection program. Pedigree

Cavapoo

Cavapoo BasicsWho says you can’t have it all. Looks and brains in one delightful package? That’s Cavapoo for ya! The silkiest and smartest pooch on the block, the Cavapoo wins over pet owners with his combination of good looks and a lovely temperament. This mixed breed dog comes from a unique background and makes an excellent companion and a family pet, so it’s no wonder that these guys rank as one of the most popular designer dog breeds. As a hybrid, Cavapoo comes from two purebred parents- the Poodle (miniature or toy) and the Cavalier Kings Charles Spaniel. Cavapoos represent everything designer dogs are about: the best of both parents in one adorable pooch. If you’ve been considering diving into the exciting world of designers dogs, there’s no better place to start that with this little beauty.There are so many reasons why this incredible pup has become so beloved. The low-shedding Cavapoo is a great companion dog whose small stature makes him a perfect fit for apartment dwellers, seniors, and singles who like to include their pooch in all things social. A gentle nature means this indoor dog is a terrific family pet that does well with older kids who can be taught to appreciate his smaller size. To find out more about these gorgeous dogs, read on! You might be surprised by just how many reasons there are to bring this perfect pooch into your home.The low-shedding Cavapoo is a great companion dog.Origin As you might have discovered on your own by now, designer dogs don’t exactly have a long history. Sure, mixed breed dogs have always been around, but people started intentionally producing them only recently. It’s a new trend, but one that isn’t going away any time soon. By crossbreeding purebred dogs, they were hoping to create new hybrid breeds that would offer prized traits of both parents, often even improved. The Cavapoo (or the Cavoodle as some call it) is one of the first breeds that were created when the designer dog trend kicked off. The first litters of Cavalier Kings Charles Spaniel and Poodle mix puppies were born in Australia, in the 1990s. Of course, while the breed originated in Australia, it didn’t take long for these hybrids to gain popularity in the United Kingdom and the United States, as well. Beyond those basics, there isn’t much known about the histories of these delightful doggos because designer dogs simply aren’t taken as seriously as pure breeds. Obviously, that’s starting to change. But for now, there remains a certain basis against hybrid dogs within the industry.Pedigree

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