HSUS Releases Horrible Hundred 2016 Puppy Mills List

by Amy Tokic

Published: May 10th, 2016

hsus releases horrible hundred 2016 puppy mills list

The Humane Society of the United States is trying to shut down puppy mills by educating the public with its 2016 list of 100 of the worst US dog breeding operations.

We all hate puppy mills, and while we all do our part to try to stop the sale of these puppies, we’re glad that the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has provided a sampling of problem puppy mills throughout the nation.

The Horrible Hundred was compiled based on federal and/or state violations, and thanks to greater availability records in more states, the fourth annual list offers more insight as to identifying and warning the public about these breeders. And while this isn’t a fully comprehensive list, it does help pet owners avoid buying puppies from these morally corrupt operations.

According to the data, Missouri leads the nation in terms of horrible puppy mills for the fourth year in a row, topping the list at 30 problem dealers. Following at half that number is Iowa (15), Kansas (14), Ohio (9), Nebraska and Pennsylvania (5 each). Unfortunately, some of these puppy mills aren’t getting the message, as many on the list are repeat offenders.

If the puppy mills aren’t making any changes to the level of care they’re providing, what does that mean next? The USDA has made some progress in revoking a few of the licences, but those instances are few and far between. Because the USDA only enforces the minimum care standards of the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), these puppy mills are allowed to continue to operate while employing horrendous living and breeding conditions.

The HSUS has started a legal petition to force the AWA to improve its minimal care standards. These include more space for dogs, better vet car, regular exercise, and other much needed improvements. Until these changes have been implemented, it’s up to the consumer to put these places out of business with well-informed buying decisions. Check out the full list of Horrible Hundred 2016 puppy mill breeders – they’re listed by name and location. As well, it’s never a good idea to buy a puppy from a pet store or over the Internet. Always meet with the breeder, go to their facility and see how the dogs are being kept and treated.

Amy Tokic

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

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Humane Society Releases ‘Horrible Hundred’ Puppy Mill List

The Humane Society of the United States has released it’s list of 100 worst puppy mills and found that Missouri has the most puppy mills in the country. The Humane Society of the United States has released its “Horrible Hundred” list, which is an annual compilation of the worst puppy mills in the country. Topping the list of states with the most number of puppy mills in the United States was Missouri, with 23 known puppy mills, followed by Ohio with 13 and Iowa with ten. Related: Maryland Legislature Prohibits Pet Stores Selling ‘Puppy Mill’ Pets The Humane Society says that since President Trump took office, it’s been more difficult to compile the list, as in February of 2017, the United States Department of Agriculture took all information about animal-welfare inspection reports of their website. Previously, those reports had been public record for at least five years. Though the reports were then put back on the USDA site, the names of the facilities and the street addresses and owners’ names were blacked out in the name of privacy and it’s harder to find out who is running puppy mills and where they are. The Humane Society still pressed on to ensure the safety of all animals they can. Though the USDA has said they’ll give the information out under the Freedom of Information Act, advocates say that that is a slow process, and even when the data is given, it is often still riddled with redacted information. The USDA says that they are looking to ensure the breeders are not harrassed excessively and that their privacy outweighs the right to the information for the animals. Related: Humane Society Fights Back Against USDA Records Removal As a result, The Humane Society is now suing the USDA for the access to all nonredacted inspection reports, saying that without that information, consumers cannot rely on the current versions to ensure safety for animals or to ensure the federal government is doing its job to police and regulate them. While the top three states have been on the Horrible Hundred List for a while, 14 other states join them and complete the list. Those states are: Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Massachusettes, Michigan, Nebraska, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota and Wisconsin. The Humane Society did their best to include specific names and probably names, so watch out when looking for your next furry family member.

New NJ Law Seeks To Ban Sale Of Puppy Mill Dogs

Four paws up for New Jersey! The state is seeking to ban the sale of dogs from puppy mills once and for all. It’s an uncomfortable and unfortunate truth: those adorable puppies you see in the window of your local pet shop? There’s a good chance they came from a puppy mill, raised in deplorable conditions by someone whose only concern is how much money can be made off the back of each pup. And sadly, the statistics are staggering: there are an estimated 10,000 puppy mills in the United States alone, producing some 2,000,000 puppies per year. New Jersey Senator Ray Lesniak is hoping to change all that with the introduction of bill S63, which passed a vote in the state’s Senate Budget Committee last week, and will likely be voted on this coming Thursday by the full Senate. Related: 10 Signs Your Dog Is From A Puppy Mill If the bill passes the Senate — which it’s expected to — it will introduce a deservedly harsh set of new regulations banning the sale of puppy mill pooches in New Jersey pet stores and beyond. Current law in NJ states places sets requirements some requirements for pet stores: they cannot sell dogs or cats from a breeder not licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, or from breeders who have a number of Animal Welfare act violations. Still, it’s not enough — and this is where bill S63 comes in. The bill targets the increasingly popular world of online puppy sales. The law would require anyone who sells five or more dogs or cats “sight unseen” to people inside the state of New Jersey to comply with the law’s requirements. “Sight unseen” means that the new owner hasn’t met the animal before purchasing them, which would absolutely apply to online pet sales. Related: HSUS Releases 2016 Horrible Hundred Puppy Mills List On top of that, the bill also prohibits outdoor pet sales, such as at flea markets and in parking lots — very sketchy and unregulated places to purchase a pet, making them prime locations for puppy mill and backyard breeders. Additionally, S63 would require that any new pet stores could only sell animals from shelters and rescue groups (YAY!). Existing pet stores would eventually be grandfathered in. This would make New Jersey the first state to enact these kind of animal welfare laws at the state level — most similar laws are only enacted at the city or county level. A representative from the Humane Society of the United States calls bill S63 “the most comprehensive puppy mill sales bill to ever be introduced”. All in all, this is a huge step forward for animal protection. We can only hope that other states will follow suit in the very near future. [Source: BarkPost]

USDA Moves Animal Welfare Records; Sparks Concern About Secretary Nomi

The U.S. Department of Agriculture unexpectedly removed inspection reports and other information that had previously been available to the general public, sparking conversation that President Trump’s nominee selections for the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture may not have the best interest of animals at heart. The U.S. Department of Agriculture stunned animal welfare groups recently by removing information about the treatment of animals at research laboratories, dog breeding and other facilities and zoos from its databases. Citing privacy laws and court rulings for the decision, the department now says all information, which also includes records of enforcement actions against violators of the Animal Welfare Act and the Horse Protection Act will still be available, but only accessible under requests of the Freedom of Information Act. Those requests are known to take years to be approved, so in essence, the department has now buried years and years of documentation pivotal to the protection of animals in red tape. The U.S. Department of Agriculture on Friday abruptly removed inspection reports and other information from its website about the treatment of animals at thousands of research laboratories, zoos, dog breeding operations and other facilities. Related: HSUS Releases Horrible Hundred 2016 Puppy Mills List The records not only contained information that was used to monitor treatment of animals across the country, but also to expose violations, and investigate dog breeders and pet stores. There are seven states that currently require pet stores to only sell puppies who come from breeders cleared by the USDA Inspection reports, but without access to that information, following the law will be much more difficult. Animal welfare groups are outraged, fearing that this action will allow the horrors of puppy mills and abusive zoos and labs to be hidden, and animal abuse will now essentially go unchecked. And so, when the information seems so imperative to the health and well-being of animals, the motivation of the department is now in question. Not surprisingly, President Trump’s nominee options for people to lead the Department of Agriculture come to the forefront of intent. In December of 2016, Trump’s choice was Brian Klippenstein–who has a reputation for being a defender of puppy mills and cites the abuse of circus animals as ‘traditions,’ with which he sees nothing wrong. Trump followed the possibility of Klippenstein with U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp, a more moderate possibility, but one who also took herself out of the running for the position mid-January 2017. Related: HSUS Releases Horrible Hundred 2016 Puppy Mills List Currently, former Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue is the President’s nominee for the position. Perdue has no relationship to Perdue Chicken, and we are cautiously optimistic as he worked as a veterinarian for many years before coming a small business owner and then moving into the political arena. Of Perdue, President and CEO of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has publicly applauded Perdue’s commitment to animal welfare when governor of Georgia. Perdue worked to make dog fighting a felony and to outlaw the use of gas chambers by animal shelters, but still, watchdog groups are waiting to fully weigh in on his appointment. The Puppy Mill Project has gone so far as to claim Perdue views dogs as livestock, though we find no evidence to support that as his belief, and in fact, we have to admit goes contrary to his behavior as governor where he’d visit spay and neuter clinics to volunteer in a veterinary capacity. The correlation between the nominees for the lead position of the USDA and the purging and moving of records remains unclear. As Perdue hasn’t been appointed yet, it is doubtful that he is spearheading the move, though that the steps have been taken to make it difficult to protect animals concerns us and is worth closely watching.

Humane Society Fights Back Against USDA Records Removal

The United States Department of Agriculture is removing years’ worth of data about inspection reports for thousands of animal facilities and breeders. Now, animal welfare groups are fighting back. When the USDA announced it was removing thousands of records that included inspection reports for places such as laboratories, zoos, and commercial breeders from its public database, and that the information henceforth would only be accessible under request from the Freedom of Information Act, animal welfare groups were outraged. Was it a sketchy attempt to bury information that helps to ensure the welfare of animals in a variety of venues? Well, animal protection groups promised they’d fight back. One group in particular, the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), is putting its money where its mouth is to have the removed information returned, and legally challenging the USDA’s move. HSUS president Wayne Pacelle says that not wanting the information to be public suggests that there is a purposed effort to hinder the efforts toward animal protection. Related: Let’s Celebrate Humane Society Day The Humane Society is no stranger to taking the government to court when it comes to information about animal treatment. In 2005, they sued the USDA for violating the Freedom of Information Act for not providing animal related records. The parties came to a settled agreement in 2009, with the USDA making a number of records regarding information about pain and distress in lab animals available online. Recently, the Humane Society sent a notice to the USDA claiming they violated the terms of the previous settlement by removing the database of that information, and they insist that the USDA immediately publish the records or the HSUS will retain a court order mandating they do so, as well as possibly reopen the previously settled suit. Related: HSUS Releases Horrible Hundred 2016 Puppy Mills List While the USDA claims that privacy is the driving factor behind the removal of the records, and that the information is still available, under Freedom of Information Act requests, they fail to mention that most of those requests can be costly and take months, or even years. Until recently, the public records were easily accessible and used to ensure the proper care and welfare of animals. Even facilities that are subject to USDA inspections, such as zoos and aquariums, feel that the removal of the records now will have the public’s trust in the care of businesses that care for animals in question. There are several online petitions currently available demanding the information to be placed back where it’s been for years, and we’ll continue to watch for the USDA’s response to the Humane Society’s request to restore the information to the databanks. One thing’s for sure… though the information is gone for now, whether it stays that way remains to be seen.

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

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

Are Dogs Smarter than Cats?

The rivalry between cats and dogs is an age-old thing. Many pet owners are divided in their affections, as some adore kitties, but others are strictly doggo lovers. And this rivalry poses an intriguing question – could there be a difference between cats and dogs? While both are cuddly and loveable, they are inevitably different. So, could it be possible that  dogs are smarter than cats, or vice versa? This is a popular question in the scientific world, and many tried answering it. Let’s see what they came up with.Are Dogs Smarter than Cats? For ages, the debate on the rivalry between cats and dogs has been ongoing. Ultimately, however, it all depends on how you define “smart”. Dogs are often loved for their obedience, their ability to be trained and follow commands, their unwavering loyalty, and their excellent guardian traits. Cats, on the other hand, are known for their independence, their adaptability and problem-solving skills, their free and restless spirit, and their cuddly nature. So, as we can see, while generally different in personalities, both of these animals possess certain cognitive skills – but is one smarter than the other?Recent studies have revealed that both dogs and cats possess unique cognitive abilities suited to their respective lifestyles and evolutionary histories. Meaning, they are completely different animals. Dogs, for example, originated from domesticated canines, far, far back in history. They were bred over thousands of years to work alongside humans, protect flocks, help with hunting, and guard homes. This, in turn, has likely influenced their ability to understand and communicate with us, and to be so devoted as pets. But cats are different. In stark contrast to doggos, cats have retained more of their wild instincts, allowing them to thrive in a variety of environments and situations.All of this means that you can’t really compare the intelligence of a cat and that of a dog. It’s like comparing apples and oranges – it just doesn’t go. Each animal excels in different areas and possesses different strengths. It's more accurate to appreciate the unique qualities of each species rather than trying to determine which one is "smarter."But even so, scientists tried to reach a decisive conclusion. They studied both cats and dogs and ultimately reached an answer - at least, scientifically speaking. Their research shows that dogs are smarter than cats! Some of you might find this answer surprising but don’t raise a revolt just yet. Cats are super intelligent even so. It’s just that they are likely not as smart as some dogs are. The secret is in “smartness” itself. Dogs are intelligent in their own way. They are generally more reliant on humans for problem-solving tasks, but they are adept at learning from observation and experience. They can also be trained to perform a wide range of tasks, from simple tricks to complex behaviors, such as guiding the visually impaired or detecting explosives. Cats, however, are natural hunters and possess excellent problem-solving skills. They are known for their agility, stealth, and ability to strategize when stalking their prey. In a domestic setting, cats demonstrate problem-solving abilities when navigating obstacles, finding hiding spots, and even manipulating objects to access food or toys. So, both of them have different positive traits and different types of intelligence. But it could be that dogs, with their ability to learn and obey commands, are just a tad bit smarter.

What Happens if Dogs Eat Cat Food?

A multi-pet household is always full of adventures, and even more so when you have both cats and dogs. While there are many fun aspects to sharing your life and your home with multiple pets, there are quite a few challenges, as well – such as making sure everybody’s keeping their nose in their own food bowl. We all know that dogs tend to have healthy appetites and are not picky, which means they’ll often try (and succeed) in eating cat food when given the chance.While not the  worst thing a dog can eat when sharing a home with a cat (litter and its contents seem to be irresistible to some canines), kitty kibble certainly isn’t the best type of food for your dog, either. But what happens if dogs eat cat food? Can it be harmful to them? And are cat and dog foods really that different? Here’s what you need to know.What Happens if a Dog Eats Cat Food?Let’s face it: if a dog eats cat food occasionally, it's usually not a cause for concern. The worst that can happen is an upset stomach or a bit of diarrhea. The main cause is the fact that cat food is formulated differently from dog food, containing higher levels of protein and fat, which can be harder for dogs to digest. If a dog eats cat food regularly, however, it can lead to digestive issues such as upset stomach, diarrhea, or even  pancreatitis due to the higher fat content. In other words, sneaking food from the cat’s bowl once or twice won’t be an issue – but repeated consumption most definitely will. What is more, cat food lacks certain nutrients that dogs need in their diet, such as adequate levels of vitamin E and taurine. So, while an occasional nibble might not harm your dog, it's best to prevent regular access to cat food to avoid potentially considerable health problems.Another reason why doggos should steer clear of cat food on a regular basis is weight gain. Cat food has a quite higher fat content, which can lead to weight gain in dogs. All the excess weight (which can pile up quite quickly) will lead to a lot of health issues, like diabetes or joint issues. If your pooch likes to sample cat food, they might also experience an upset stomach, resulting in vomiting or diarrhea. This is because cat food contains much more protein than the usual dog food. Higher levels of protein are harder to digest for dogs, and this results in gastrointestinal discomfort. A home remedy for an upset tummy in dogs – if it’s due to eating a bit of kitty food – could be providing  dog probiotics in combination with a bland diet for a day or two, until they’re feeling better. 

Newfoundland Dogs Deliver Your Tree at This US Christmas Tree Farm

“It’s a great way to expose people to the joy of Christmas but also teach people about Newfoundland dogs,” explained Lindsay Eshelman when asked about her family farm. “They’re big, and sometimes people are scared of big dogs, and we want to show that they’re gentle giants.”The Esheman family’s love of the breed is evident, with four Newfoundland dogs currently among their ranks. But they didn’t want to stop there. By inviting Newfies from far and wide to come together, they have rightfully earned the title “The Newfoundland Farm.” The event has become a big part of what they do, a tradition they excitedly look forward to year after year.“We are a destination for these dogs,” Eshelman said. “We actually have had people drive all the way from Vermont, Maine, Ohio – those are ten-plus hour-long drives.”Are you interested in joining the festivities next year, but your dog doesn’t quite fit the breed? Don’t worry! Their Facebook states that all dogs are welcome, not just Newfies. If your dog isn’t keen on public spaces, that’s okay too! Dog lovers are welcome to join in with or without a dog. There will be plenty of adorable pups eager to enjoy your attention.So, start planning your trip to Pennsylvania next year to participate in Newfoundland Day and make some unique holiday memories.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?

Springtime is such a joyful time of the year. The harsh and gloomy winter days are finally over, and nature is awakening – the sun is shining, trees are blooming, and life erupts all over again. But that doesn’t mean that there are no downsides to this season. From spring allergies to spring shedding, there are also quite a few things that don’t spark joy when spring comes. One of those unexpected things that become a downside of spring when you’re a dog is flowers. Yup. Those gorgeous, lush-smelling blooms that appear in the spring can pose a threat to your dog, as many spring flowers are toxic to our canine friends.So without further ado, let’s see which of these pretty, colorful flowers are potentially dangerous for dogs – so you’ll know exactly which of them to avoid planting in your garden or putting in a vase.Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?As we all know, dogs are inquisitive and love to nibble and sniff all sorts of odd things, flowers included. This is why you should be vigilant in the spring when many potentially toxic plant varieties are in season. Keep an eye out for the following flowers when walking your pet out and about or when picking out seeds for your flower beds!Daffodils

How Do I Train My Dog to Wear a Muzzle?

Introducing a new tool to your dog can feel like uncharted territory. While some dogs will readily accept whatever is thrown their way, others will become stressed or anxious when presented with something new. Unfortunately, if you are in a position where a muzzle is necessary for the safety of your dog or others around you, forgoing a tool because your dog appears to be uninterested in it isn’t an option. So, what do you do? How do you train your dog to wear a muzzle? This guide will dig into the importance of conditioning when planning to muzzle your dog. This includes explaining what conditioning is, walking you through the process step-by-step, and sharing some helpful tips to set you up for success. What is Muzzle Conditioning? Before expecting your dog to wear their muzzle, it is recommended that you take the time to focus on muzzle training, also referred to as muzzle conditioning. This is the process of introducing the muzzle alongside positive rewards. If each time your dog sees or interacts with the muzzle, they get “good things,” it will create a positive association. Over time, they will not only tolerate the muzzle but happily accept it. Why? They recognize that wearing their muzzle means they will receive good things like verbal praise, pets, and their favorite treats. How Long Does It Take for a Dog to Get Used to a Muzzle? There is no one guaranteed timeline when working on muzzle conditioning. While some dogs will quickly take to the muzzle, adjusting in just a few days, others will take longer. Some factors that can impact this include your dog’s personality, trainability, previous experience (positive or negative) with a muzzle, and their trust/bond with you as the person introducing this tool to them. It’s important to keep in mind that the time it takes does NOT mean you are doing better or failing at your training efforts. We have three dogs, all of which have been muzzle-trained. While two of our dogs took to the muzzle relatively quickly, Lucifer’s nerves and anxiety made the process more challenging. This doesn’t mean it was impossible. With time, patience, and consistency, he is now the dog that is most comfortable in a muzzle out of the three. We just had to move at his pace.

Holiday Gifts for Dogs to Include Them in the Fun

It’s the gift giving season, and you’re thinking about all of the people you’ll buy presents for, but why not also add your canine companion to the list? With so many great products on the market, you can find the ideal gift for your dog so they can participate in the opening of presents with everyone they love. Here are some tips to help you find something that your pooch will get excited over.

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When is the Best Time to Start Puppy Training?

Training your pet is a very important task as it will shape them into a friendly, obedient dog that’s a pleasure to be around. While it does require a lot of patience and effort, training your dog on time makes your life as an owner much easier and prevents a myriad of behavior issues and other problems down the road. Of course, it goes without saying that you should start training early, while your doggo is still a puppy. That is the time when they gladly soak up all the information and eagerly learn. But when exactly is the best time to start puppy training? You can’t do it while they are still teeny-tiny, nor should you wait too long. What is the ideal middle ground? Let’s find out.When is the Best Time to Start Puppy Training?Puppies are like sponges, soaking up information from their environment and their owner, so early training can set a solid foundation for good behavior and establish obedience throughout their lives. Ideally, you can start basic training such as housebreaking, socialization, and simple commands like "sit" and "stay" when your puppy is around 8 weeks old. This is the general “golden rule” that many owners stick by. When they reach that 2-month mark, it’s considered the ideal time for them to quickly grasp the commands you teach them. If you think that this could be “too early” to start training, you are wrong. There are numerous benefits to early training, and all of them are critical for your dog’s well-being and normal behavior. Here are just a few of them:SocializationEarly socialization is so important for puppies. It allows them to learn how to properly interact with other dogs and humans and prevents aggression and behavioral problems later in life. During this period you should expose your pet to new environments, sounds, and sights.BondingTraining sessions are a great way to strengthen the bond between you and your puppy. Spending time together, teaching them new things, and rewarding good behavior builds trust and a positive relationship.Preventing Behavioral IssuesIf you spot behavior issues while your dog is still a puppy, it is easier to prevent them from becoming nasty habits. As you teach your pet proper behavior and as you set up boundaries, you will prevent many nasty issues from forming, such as excess chewing, barking, or disobedience. If you already notice chewing issues that stem from teething, make sure to redirect their attention to an appropriate chew toy and use  puppy no-chew deterrent sprays to help you shift their focus.

Study Finds That Pet Owners Experience Slower Cognitive Decline

Studies have shown that owning a pet can promote physical health in older people, but there isn’t enough research on the impact of dogs, cats, and other pets on cognitive function. As people age, their cognitive functions and memory decline. Although all people experience some level of cognitive decline as they age, some individuals can maintain good cognitive function well into advanced age. In contrast, others experience a sharp cognitive decline early on. Researchers have suggested various strategies to slow cognitive decline, from treating sleep apnea to improving diet and increasing exercise. In a new study, a team of researchers has set to discover whether pets, mainly cats and dogs, may help slow down cognitive decline in seniors.Scientists from the University of Maryland wanted to examine the link between pet ownership and changes in cognitive function of community-dwelling seniors. The goal of this study was to determine whether pet owners experience slower cognitive decline. They also wanted to see if there’s any difference if the pet is a dog or a cat, and whether dog walking might reduce the rate of cognitive decline. The team analyzed data from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, the longest-running study of aging in the U.S. Using the data from this study, enabled the research team to analyze the cognitive tests of 637 participants ages between 51 and 101.Of the participants, nearly one-third owned pets, with 11% owning cats and 13% owning dogs. Among dog owners, 69% reported walking their dogs regularly. Results revealed that during 10 years, all participants experienced a decline in cognitive functions as they aged. However, decline was slower in pet owners, compared to non-pet owners. Interestingly, the slower decline was more evident in some but not all tests used to determine cognitive function. Additionally, the results also showed some variations between cat and dog owners. For example, researchers noted that dog owners who walked their dogs regularly experienced even slower cognitive decline than cat owners and dog owners who didn’t walk their pets.This finding showcases just how beneficial walking your pooch can be for your overall health. Owning a dog can increase physical activity, as they need to be taken out for regular walks and daily exercise, which is known to be beneficial for health. “Older adult pet owners experienced less decline in cognitive function as they aged, after considering both their pre-existing health and age,” the study authors said.“Memory, executive function, language function, psychomotor speed, and processing speed deteriorated less over 10 years among pet owners than among non-owners and among dog owners than non-owners.”“Cat owners experienced less deterioration in memory and language function. Dog walking was also associated with slower deterioration in cognitive functioning.”Numerous other studies have shown that pets can provide social support and that interacting with a cat or dog can lower heart rate and blood pressure.This study is important for the scientific understanding of factors linked with cognitive decline. However, this study isn’t without limitations. Firstly, the study doesn’t allow any cause-and-effect conclusions to be made. Secondly, the study sample consisted of people with higher socioeconomic status and above-average cognitive abilities for their age. “Policymakers could use these findings to support the inclusion of pets in care plans, designing housing and neighborhoods for seniors that are friendly for dog walking and developing programs to support pet ownership and care for older adults’ pets while they are temporarily unable to do so,” concluded the authors of the study. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

New Study Shows Surprising Effect of Pet Ownership on Seniors

You’ve probably noticed how your four-legged bestie influences your mood for the better, but did you know that your pet might be beneficial to your brain? That’s right! The latest studies show that your pet and their company could be just the thing to lower the risk of dementia in your golden years. These findings are especially important for single senior pet owners who are at risk of this troubling illness as they reveal that having a pet can make a drastic change. A recent study that involved adults over the age of 50 who lived alone revealed that those living in the company of a loved pet will have considerably less decline in their verbal fluency and verbal memory - compared to those who lived without a pet. This research was published in the  journal JAMA Network Open and was based on data taken from 7,945 people in the mentioned age group.This study, however, only reflects on people who live alone and does not involve participants who lived with other persons in the household. Still, while the results reinforce the fact that loneliness is a major risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia in old age, they also reveal something new – that the company of a pet counts as much as the company of human family members, if not more so.The early signs of cognitive decline can be fluency, verbal issues, cognition, and memory problems, and so on. But if you have the company of a pet, whom you can address and care for, can greatly reduce the feelings of loneliness and keep these cognitive issues at bay. This study and its results are very important in today’s day and age and for many Americans in particular. Recent U.S. Census Bureau insights revealed that almost 28 percent of all households in the United States were “one-person households” in 2020. This is an alarmingly large number and shows us that many people aged 50 and older will face lonely senior years. Of course, even though the results of this study show that older people can maintain their mental health through the company of a pet, the research team emphasized that more advanced studies and clinical trials will be required to fully confirm the results. Yet even so, the lack of an effective therapy that can reverse or slow cognitive decline and treat dementia means that these results are a small but very important benefit for the understanding of these issues. And, needless to say, all those who are entering their senior years and want to spend them in a healthier and more beneficial way now know that their next station should probably be a local pet shelter. Find a pet you can love and cherish - and keep your brain healthy while showering them with affection.

Scientists Finally Identify Mystery Dog Illness Sweeping America

If you are a dog owner in the United States, you have likely already seen the news reports about the mystery illness responsible for the deaths of several dogs, prompting veterinary professionals to caution pet parents about taking their pets out to public spaces. But we may finally be able to spot the light at the end of the tunnel… Dr. David Needle, pathology section chief at the College of Life Sciences and Agriculture at the University of New Hampshire, reported that scientists have finally identified the cause of the illness. While this doesn’t mean that life for our dogs can return to normal immediately, it does mean that they are one step closer to finding a cure and moving past this nightmare. The research article has yet to be published, but the team is sharing their initial findings to provide hope for pet parents and the veterinary community. The pathogen responsible for the mystery respiratory illness is described as “a funky bacterium.” “It’s smaller than a normal bacterium in its size and in the size of its genome,” explained Needle. “Long story short, it’s a weird bacterium that can be tough to find and sequence.” Searching for the cause of this illness wasn’t easy for researchers. Initially, there were no known bacterial, viral, or fungal pathogens, meaning they were searching blind. However, after testing 30 samples from New Hampshire, genetic material from an atypical bacterial species was discovered. The next step in understanding the cause of the illness and working towards a cure (and possible preventative) is to compare these findings to samples from dogs in other states to verify that it is, in fact, the same pathogen in all reported instances. States with possible cases of the disease include: CaliforniaColoradoFlorida Georgia IdahoIllinois IndianaMarylandMassachusettsNew HampshireOregonPennsylvania Rhode IslandVermontWashingtonOne challenge faced by veterinarians is the fact there is no test to confirm that all reported cases are, in fact, the same illness. What Are the Warning Signs?Common symptoms resemble respiratory infections like canine influenza and kennel cough, conditions usually seen in higher numbers at this time of year. Luckily for the human members of our family, there are currently no reports of the illness being transferred to humans. Veterinarians recommend watching out for the following symptoms: Coughing or sneezing WheezingDifficulty breathingNasal or eye dischargeDehydration Loss of appetite Weight loss FeverLethargyHow Can You Keep Your Dog Safe? Until a cure has been identified, dog parents are encouraged to focus on preventative measures. Ensure your dog’s vaccinations are current, protecting them against known respiratory problems. Avoid public spaces like dog parks, doggy daycare, and grooming establishments where dogs may be exposed to the illness. If you must go to a public space, steer clear of shared food and water dishes. Your dog will be just as happy to spend this time playing with you as they would with another dog!If you notice any signs of respiratory trouble or illness, don’t panic. Contact your veterinarian to share your concerns and make an appointment.

Family Dog Alerts Parents to a Teen’s Stroke and Saves His Life

Dogs are so deserving of their title – man’s best friend - and they continue to prove it day in and day out. From being our best friends to providing irreplaceable acts of service to people in need, there’s so much that dogs do that makes a difference and this story only proves it.The fateful event took place in Spring, Texas, where the family Tanner lives, alongside their precious pooch, Axel. Axel is a 1-year-old  border collie, a rescue that quickly became a cherished member of the family and, as life would have it, their savior. It was around 5 am on a calm Saturday morning when Axel – completely out of the ordinary – jolted Amanda and her husband from their sleep. And it was no regular attention-seeking behavior. Something was amiss, and Axel was determined to let the couple know.“He was pawing me more than normal to get me to move,” Mr. Tanner explains for  Today.com. Realizing that the dog was clearly trying to wake them, Amanda’s husband went downstairs to check on things and let the dog outside. Axel refused. It wasn’t the outdoors he was seeking - there was something else. He quickly stopped in front of the closed doors of the 17-year-old Gabriel Tanner. Mr. Tanner went inside to check up on his son but realized what was the cause of the dog’s panic. Young Gabriel was having a stroke, his speech was slurred, and he could not feel his right side. At once they rushed him to the emergency room at the Memorial Hermann the Woodlands Medical Center. Young Gabriel was quickly treated and made a recovery. Dr. Sabih Effendi, who treated him, says that “by waking the parents up, and leading them to the boy, the dog made a “massive” difference in Gabriel’s outcome”. “It’s very amazing that their dog alerted and started this whole process of getting everyone awake and going downstairs,” Effendi continues. “When somebody’s acutely having a stroke, the neurons are dying. … If he was not found and another three or four hours went by, there would have been more and more and more brain injury.”The Tanner family is extremely grateful to have had Axel by their side in this crucial moment. They can only wonder what would have happened if the dog wasn’t there. He practically saved Gabriel’s life. “We wouldn’t have thought to go into Gabriel’s room and wake him up. He’s a teenager. It was a Saturday morning. We went to bed late. We wouldn’t think to go in there until maybe noon,” Amanda says.Nowadays, Axel is a precious member of their family and tends to follow Gabriel wherever he goes. He also sleeps with the teen a lot more, always on the lookout for anything out of the ordinary. A true four-legged friend and proof that dogs can be loyal to no end! 

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