Judge Judy Solves Dog Dispute in Seconds After Tearful Reunion [Video]

Show Rabbits 101

We all know that dogs are one of the most popular show pets – groomed to perfection and judged both on their appearance and physical prowess. But did you know that the rabbit is another popular show pet? That’s right, show rabbits hold a special place in professional competitions. Most beginner rabbit owners never even suspect that their pet can win over a host of judges – especially if it is a special breed. Who knows, perhaps your fluffy pet has all the needed attributes to become a champion? But before you and your pet go on winning medals, here is what you need to know about show rabbits.Why Show Your Rabbit?Some rabbit owners might be questioning the purpose of these exhibitions, so let’s try and answer this question – why show your rabbit in the first place? Rabbit shows are a great way to enter a world of like-minded rabbit enthusiasts. Not only will you get to meet other rabbit lovers, but you can also learn a lot about raising your rabbit right, from the first-hand experience of seasoned owners. Exchange your experiences with other breeders, and learn the tips and tricks of breeding, molting, grooming, behavior, diet, and many other aspects of rabbit care. Winning is only a bonus – you need only participate to have all the fun!What Is a Show Rabbit? To enter one of these competitions, your rabbit needs to have “show qualities” to begin with. In simplest terms, this means that your bunny needs to be as close to “genetic perfection” as possible. If you have a superb and pretty rabbit specimen, they might just be a champion stock! In competition terms, a show quality rabbit is one that does not have any non-genetic or genetic disqualifications. So, any slight imperfections that your rabbit might have, can potentially ruin their chances in a competition. Crooked legs, discoloration, obesity, abnormalities, imperfect tail, eye discoloration, and similar “imperfections” are enough to categorize your bunny as a non-show rabbit. But that is not all. Show rabbits need to belong to one of the ARBA-recognized rabbit breeds. There are numerous special rabbit breeds that are on the ARBA list, and most of them are unique in their appearance, and often hard to acquire. Some of these breeds are American Rabbit, English Lop, Dwarf Papillon, Checkered Giant, Giant Angora, Lionhead, Silver Marten, and many others – currently, 50 rabbit breeds are recognized by this organization. So, before you try and enter the lists, check out your bunny’s pedigree and their breed’s standard.How to Show Rabbits So, you made it to the exhibition. You made sure your rabbit is socialized, used to handling, healthy, and recognized by the ARBA. But how do you show your rabbit properly? First, you will want them to be cleaned properly – from head to toe. Clip their toenails too, and clean any dirt spots you see. Groom them at home, and brush them gently just before the judging show. You’ll want their fur smooth and presentable (depending on the breed). Of course, you will want to give your bunny plenty of water before the show starts, and to make sure they are accustomed to being handled. When the judge appears, pose your rabbit as instructed by the judge. The usual pose has to have eyes and front legs aligned, and hind legs and hips also. The tail also needs to be shown. Once the judge is finished, place your bunny back in its enclosure, as to avoid confusion during the judging process. And keep your fingers crossed – maybe you’re going home with a medal!

Adoptable Dog of the Week - Blizzard

This adorable girl is waiting for her forever family to take her home! Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Blizzard, a 2 year old Siberian Husky mix from Pekin, Illinois. She is spayed, up to date on her vaccines, and knows some basic commands. Blizzard could do well with other dogs (but a prior meeting is a must), does well around cats, but hasn’t been yet tested with kids. Blizzard’s TaleIf you want a pooch that will always keep you on your toes, be a perfect companion for your active lifestyle, and be up for any adventure, you’re in luck! Blizzard is definitely your gal. She is full of energy, loves to run, and is a champion at zoomies – she really looks like a blizzard when she gets going. Naturally, this also means that she needs a family that can keep up with her needs and is able to provide her an outlet for all that energy. Ideally, her new home would have a securely fenced-in backyard where she could play and explore safely.Blizzard is also a very smart dog that’s treat motivated to boot, which means she does great with training – with a patient, determined owner by her side, she could learn so much more. She already walks very nicely on a leash, she will sit, lay down, and roll over for a treat, and there’s no saying what other fun and useful tricks she could learn yet. A sweet and loving dog that will shower you with love in return for your affection, Blizzard does well with cats but hasn’t been tested around children yet. She’d probably do well with dogs of her size and similar energy levels, but if you already have a pooch in the family, it’s best to contact her rescuers for more information.If you want Blizzard to be a part of your family, contact T.A.P.S. No-Kill Animal Shelter to learn more about her.

Ask the Animal Communicator: What is My Horse Trying to Tell Me?

Dear Shannon, My horse, Sir Morton, came to me five years ago. Getting him was a dream-come-true – he is my first horse. From the start, he has been a sweet and gentle riding buddy and companion. We have spent so many wonderful hours together riding along the trails that surround his stables. Until lately, that is. Over the past few weeks, Sir M (my nickname for him) has gotten more and more fussy about wearing his saddle and bridle. Now when I go to put his tack on him, he backs up as far as he can or turns to the side or nips at my hands – the stable manager thinks he’s just bored and trying to make it into a game, but I don’t think so. I’ve had the vet out to check him all over and she says he is healthy. I have no idea what to try next – will I ever be able to ride him again? Sherry the horse girl for life Dear Sherry,Thank you for reaching out on Sir Morton’s behalf. What I get when I read between the lines of your email is that your intuition is talking to you loud and clear. Something is up with Sir Morton and it can’t be explained away so easily as a horse who is bored or in obvious medical crisis.One of the reasons we human animals love horses so much is because they are such intuitive, sensitive, and nuanced companions. Horses teach us that small details matter greatly. And often those same small details can quickly become big problems for our horses, who have far less control over their living situations and daily schedules than we have over ours.When I tune in with Sir M, he draws my attention to two small things that appear to be connected to his sudden big change in behavior.As an animal intuitive, I receive a lot of messages from animals through my physical body. What I mean is, I might feel the emotion the animal is feeling or even feel in my body some of the physical sensations that are going on in the animal’s body.When I scan Sir M’s energetic system, he stops me at the heart chakra in the chest area. And instead of the vibrant emerald green of a healthy heart chakra, his heart chakra appears to my inner eye as more of a dull army green. And instead of whirling at a steady pace in a clockwise position, his heart chakra is moving sluggishly clockwise in fits and starts. When I ask him what is causing these symptoms, a feeling of loneliness and loss wells up. It feels like Sir M is missing somebody. When I ask him to tell me more, he shows me a view of an empty stall. It could be that another horse who was stabled with him was moved recently or has passed across the rainbow bridge? If this does not immediately make sense to you, I would recommend checking with the stable manager to ask about any recent changes at the stables.The second thing Sir M shows me comes across as a subtle sensation of low back pain nearer the hips than withers. As I am sure you are aware, there are so many possible reasons a horse might have low back pain or discomfort – if your veterinarian has already checked him out all over and nothing turned up, perhaps it may be beneficial to explore a saddle refitting or reflocking or holistic treatments using massage and other forms of bodywork. Noninvasive energy treatments like Reiki can also support healing at the physical, emotional, and energetic levels.Sherry, I truly hope these insights are helpful to you as you explore options to help Sir M feel his best and get back to the trail rides you so love.One additional thing I want to make clear is that Sir Morton’s behaviors do not appear to reflect any issue in his relationship with you. Rather, his behavior changes point to other types of changes in his daily living situation and perhaps to an underlying subtle area of pain or discomfort in his physical body. When I ask Sir M about his connection with you, what comes through loud and clear is joy, love, and gratitude.From my heart,Shannon

Frozen Cranberry Dog Treat Recipe

Frozen treats aren’t just for the hot weather – dogs enjoy a cool treat any time of the year. And during the holiday season, it’s the perfect time to treat them to our Frozen Cranberry Dog Treat Recipe. All you need are three ingredients and one, two, three… you’ve got yourself some tasty homemade dog treats!Makes 10 TreatsIngredients:1/2 cup almond milk1/2 cup plain yogurt1/4 cup fresh, frozen, or dried cranberriesDirections:1. Place silicone mold trays onto a cookie sheet. 2. Add all ingredients into a food processor or blender. Pulse on high until all ingredients are pureed.3. Spoon mixture into silicone trays.4. Place into freezer overnight.5. To remove from tray, pop out by pressing back of mold.Store in freezer until ready to serve.

Adoptable Dog of the Week - Ruthie

Graceful, loyal, and smart, this lovely gal is looking for someone to shower her with love! Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Ruthie, a 2 years old Labrador Retriever and Terrier mix from Pennington, New Jersey. She is spayed, up to date on her vaccines, microchipped, housetrained, crate trained, and she knows basic commands. Ruthie does well with other dogs and cats but would prefer a home where she’s the only pet. Ruthie’s TaleA well-mannered, easy-going dog that’s already trained – Ruthie will be a dream companion if you want a loyal, calm dog by your side. Ruthie is crate trained, housetrained, walks well on a leash, and knows basic commands such as sit, stay, down, etc. She’ll even stay when you leave the room and wait for the release command! Have we already mentioned that Ruthie is super-duper smart? However, like all intelligent dogs, she needs an owner that runs a tight ship, otherwise, she’d try to become the boss of you and quickly turn to mischief.She’ll lie down quietly by your feet and follow your every step – she loves to be included in your daily activities and will shower you with love. All you have to do is reply in kind! Ruthie currently lives in a foster home with two other dogs and two cats and gets along splendidly with all of them. The girl’s a charmer! However, she’d do best in a home where she’s the only pet, as it’s her time to be the center of someone’s world and attention. Ideally, her humans would be only adults, as she’s a bit big for a family with young kids (45 pounds) and prefers the energy of adults.If you’re interested in this lovely girl, contact ARF of Mercer to learn more about her and the adoption process.

Can You Keep Rabbits Outdoors?

While rabbits are gentle and delicate pets that are most often kept indoors, they can also live and be happy outdoors, provided that they have the right accommodation. After all, a rabbit in the wild is an outdoor animal, hardy and enduring – in every season of the year. As a result, some pet rabbit breeds do just fine when housed outdoors in a comfy, insulated hutch where they are protected from harsh elements and potential predators.Basic Care Requirements for Outdoor Rabbits If you plan on keeping your pet rabbit outdoors, there are a number of things you need to consider beforehand. Naturally, this pertains to protection from the elements, as well as the necessary free space and a chance to run and exercise. For starters, rabbits cannot – and should not – be kept outside on the hottest and coldest days of the year. Even with suitable protection, these days can be potentially hazardous for the fragile health of the rabbits. While rabbits have plenty of fluffy fur and thick paw pads, which can both protect them from moderately cold temperatures, the same is not true for dog days of the summer. Excess heat can be trickier to endure, so you’ll need to make sure their enclosure is in the shade and has good ventilation to promote that cooling airflow. Rabbits that are kept outside will need a protective enclosure – a special outdoor hutch for rabbits. Bunnies love little nooks, hiding spots, tunnels, and burrows, and your enclosure should have some of these included. Plenty of hay, shade, protective nooks and proper ventilation are also all mandatory. Needless to say, this enclosure needs to be spacious, so your bunny won’t feel constrained and confined. What is more, rabbits will need to run freely and exercise outside the hutch at least once per day. If you have a yard, let them run free under your supervision, and make sure that they cannot elope. Afterward, they can rest in their enclosure. Of course, you will need to provide protection against predators. As a prey animal, rabbits are quite vulnerable, especially if there are coyotes, foxes, owls, eagles, and other similar predators nearby. A sturdy enclosure, covered with roofing or strong chicken wire, is a must to keep them safe from danger.Other things to keep in mind are less likely to occur – but not impossible. Rabbits love to dig and burrow, and they could dig their way outside of a fence and run free. Also, you will have to make sure that your property does not have odd vegetation that can be potentially poisonous and deadly for rabbits. And lastly, keep loneliness in mind. A solitary rabbit, alone in an enclosure, can grow lonesome and develop apathy, and loss of appetite. In an outdoor setting, it is best to keep several rabbits, preferably spayed and neutered. Otherwise, you will have to provide a lot of company and interaction. ConclusionKeeping rabbits outside is all about adapting to different conditions and always providing adequate shelter depending on the specific situation. With each new season and temperature shift, you should make sure that your bunny is not in immediate danger. In summer, shady spots, ventilation, and plenty of fresh water will be needed. In winter, provide warmth, dry spots, and cozy nooks away from harsh winds. Additionally, you should never leave your bunny without supervision, especially if you are living in an area with natural predators. Also, if you notice that the weather is going to the extremes, you might have to transfer your rabbit indoors, where temperatures are cooler or warmer – a garage or a barn can work if you’re unable to house a bunny inside your home.

Ask the Animal Communicator: My Bearded Dragon Won't Snuggle With Me

Dear Shannon, My kids saw a bearded dragon at a local pet store and thought it looked just like the dragons on Game of Thrones. So of course, they wanted one. And while at first, I wasn’t thrilled about adding a reptile to our family, my kids finally won me over after showing me videos of other beardies cuddling with their owners. Our bearded dragon, Drogon, was super-cuddly when he first came home with us. But now, at two years old, he has become less and less willing to snuggle with us. He likes to sit near us on the couch when we watch television or be in his enclosure watching us from a little way away. But when anyone goes to get him out, he will immediately move away or, if he does come out, he will find a place nearby to sit instead of sitting on us like he used to do. My kids are quickly losing interest because Drogon just isn’t that sociable anymore so they can’t show him off to all their friends. Luckily for him, I’m thoroughly smitten. But I’m sad he doesn’t want to snuggle or even sit on me. What are we doing wrong? I’m just worried that something happened to him, or he got hurt and now he doesn’t trust us anymore. Sincerely, Alyssa, Drogon’s (human) mom Shannon’s reply:Hi Alyssa,Thank you for reaching out to me about the changes you are noticing in Drogon’s behavior. You sound like a very caring and committed pet parent and Drogon is a lucky boy.As an animal communicator, the value I add comes from my ability to share Drogon’s perspective with you, which we will talk about next. But since you mention significant behavior changes and your fear that Drogon may have gotten hurt, I just want to mention up front that animal communication isn’t meant to be a substitute or replacement for veterinary care. So I would also recommend that you have Drogon’s exotic veterinarian do an exam if you haven’t already done this.Since you mention Drogon is about two years old, it also feels worth mentioning that male bearded dragons like Drogon typically reach sexual maturity between one and two years of age. And male beardies can go through a kind of “puberty” period where they become more anxious, pseudo-aggressive or just skittish. Mention this to your exotic veterinarian as well and have it checked out during Drogon’s exam.Now, on to my conversation with Drogon. The first thing your boy shared with me was an image of him dressed in a cap and gown and holding a diploma. The associated emotion that came with this image was one of pride. The message he wants me to convey to you is this: Drogon sees himself not as a cuddly baby anymore but as a fully grown young man now.As an animal communicator, one of the ways I get messages from animals is when my own emotional state changes suddenly in response to a question I ask. For example, when I asked Drogon how he feels about you and your kids, I suddenly began to feel escalating anxiety.When I asked Drogon to explain more about this, he showed me him surrounded by humans who were all reaching for him all at once. My anxiety got stronger. So I asked him to show me how to ease his anxiety. Drogon then showed me an image of one human lifting him out of his enclosure and handling him and everyone else staying farther back. At this, I began to feel less anxious. Perhaps your kids and their friends coming at him all at once are just too much for this little dragon?When I asked Drogon where his favorite place to be in the house is, he showed me an image of himself sitting on the back of the couch next to you at about shoulder height. He then moved onto your shoulder and then back off again. The emotion was one of closeness and affection – it does appear that out of all the family members, Drogon feels closest to and most bonded with you.Finally, when I asked him to tell me about his habitat, he sent me a mini-movie of you carrying him back to an enclosure that appeared to fill up a whole room in your home. You don’t mention the size of Drogon’s current enclosure, but from this image it does feel like Drogon may be ready for a “big boy” enclosure if you haven’t upgraded him already. 😊Alyssa, I hope this information is helpful and supportive to you, to your kids and most of all to your relationship with Drogon and his with you. Please keep in touch and let me know how Drogon is feeling and doing.From my heart,Shannon

Should You Get a Kitten for Your Senior Cat?

What are some of the things to consider before making such a big decision? Continue reading for some information that can help ensure you’ll make the right choice. A Kitten Might Cause Your Senior Cat to Feel StressedEven though you might assume that a kitten will make your cat happy or help them feel young again, the truth is a rambunctious kitty might stress out your senior, who likely just wants to take things easy and relax in a quiet and peaceful environment. Older cats tend to be set in a routine that works for them, so introducing a cat of any age – but especially a kitten – may be nerve-wracking. After all, in addition to meeting someone new, your senior will need to adjust to a kitten who has seemingly endless amounts of energy and is always asking to play. Adopt an Older Cat or a Pair of KittensA cat that’s as calm as your senior might be a better fit than a youngster who is under 1 year of age. So, in addition to considering your senior’s personality, the new cat’s age and personality are worth thinking about carefully too. Things might go more smoothly if you can find a kitty who is a good match for your senior based on their age, temperament, and energy level. In other words, adopting an adult cat or another senior is an option. A cat who is closer in age to your senior might not be as stressful, but bear in mind that there are no guarantees. Or, if you must get a kitten, consider what their personality will probably be like once they outgrow the kitten stage. Another option might be to adopt two kittens so they will be able to play with each other and keep each other company while leaving your senior cat alone to do their own thing. This arrangement might work out better for all of your kitties, but keep in mind that the kittens might still bother your senior cat every now and then if they want to play or practice their hunting and fighting skills. No matter what, introduce your cats to one another gradually to help reduce the odds of conflicts and anxiety. Your Senior Cat’s Needs Are ImportantRemember, it’s wise to evaluate your senior’s personality, preferences, wants, and needs first. If your senior used to live with one or more cats and is missing the companionship, bringing home another feline might work out fine. On the other hand, if your senior has been living most or all of their life as the only cat in the house, they might not take well to sharing territory. Also, a new kitten will take up a lot of your attention, so you want to be sure that you’ll still be able to give your senior the care and affection they require.Bottom line: there’s a lot to reflect on before bringing a kitten home to a senior cat. Carefully weigh the pros and cons so you can make the decision that will keep everyone happy.

Are Rabbits Good Pets for Children?

Over the years, rabbits have proven to be a popular choice as pets, for families of all shapes and sizes. They have many wonderful characteristics, certainly, but one has to wonder whether they are the perfect pet for young children in particular? While bunnies seem cuddly, fluffy, and cute – traits that are always attractive to kids – the harsh truth is that they might not be the perfect pet for every kid. There are several reasons why this is the case, and it is important to take a rational look at the rabbit as a pet for your child before you make any rash decisions.One of the most important facts that we need to consider is that rabbits simply require plenty of work and understanding, and a lot of responsible, adult care and supervision. In a family setting, when adults are always near and invested in the bunny’s wellbeing, they can be wonderful pets. But once this is not the case, trouble can soon arise. It should not come as a surprise to know that rabbits are rather skittish and easily frightened, especially if we consider that they are natural prey animals in the wild. Some of that reserved instinct survives in their life as pets as well. They can respond adversely to being handled and cuddled, especially in a carefree manner as young children are known to do. If frightened by sudden moves and stressed, they might lash out and take a bite at your kid. And you might not think so, but a rabbit's bite can be quite serious.This can be an even greater possibility if your rabbit is not properly socialized and used to handling from a young age. Of course, stress that ensues from such situations can cause bigger health problems for rabbits. With all that being said, it should be obvious that rabbits can be demanding as pets to some people – from diet to grooming, and all the way to handling. A young child wouldn’t be suited for a bunny-caretaker role, especially without proper adult supervision. On the other hand, a teenager with a greater sense of responsibility could care for a rabbit in a much better way. Of course, the best environment for a pet rabbit is a loving home where every member of the household would provide ample care.If you are thinking of getting a rabbit pet for your child simply because you think they are soft and cuddly and an ideal “kid’s pet”, you should think twice. Children, especially at a young age, can have a tendency to quickly get “bored” with their new pet, leaving it somewhat deprived of attention and affection. This means that you will be left with a pet that is potentially neglected, and that would require a lot of your daily care. If you are not prepared for something like that, it might be best to choose a different pet that is easier to care for. In the end, the simple truth is that rabbits are challenging pets with a lot of complex needs – contrary to the popular belief – and that adopting one is a big commitment. Be sure you are ready to make one before acting on an impulse!

Door Darting: How to Stop Your Cat From Getting Out

What are some of the ways you can train your feline friend to stay inside the house and stop bolting for the door? Read on for a few helpful tips.First, Make Your Pet’s Home More Interesting Filling your pet’s environment with plenty of fun things to do may be helpful. A bored cat might be more likely to try to find exciting things on the other side of the door. So, setting up cat trees and wall or window perches, as well as giving your pet a variety of toys to play with, could all be good ways to make her feel totally content with staying inside.Keep Your Cat Occupied Away from the DoorIf the doorbell rings and your cat knows that you’re about to open the door, grab some treats or her favorite catnip toys and use them to keep her occupied in another room. Puzzle toys can also work well as a time-consuming distraction because they challenge your kitty and reward her with yummy food.In addition, you can use this strategy when you’re about to leave. It might work at keeping your cat from following you and trying to sneak her way out.Avoid Greeting Your Kitty at the DoorDo your best to avoid giving your cat attention when she’s close to the door. This is a strategy that’s worth trying if your pet typically follows you to the door or runs to it as soon as she hears you turning the doorknob.The goal is to train your kitty to stay away from the door while you’re entering and exiting, and it might be helpful to discourage your cat from spending time near the door even while you’re home. In other words, make it an area that she generally doesn’t have a reason to be in. That way, it’ll be less likely that you’ll find her relaxing right by the entrance.To start, don’t put anything that your cat would use near the door, such as toys, cat beds, cat trees, etc. Instead, keep them a good distance from the door so your kitty can establish those spaces as her own. And, as mentioned above, you can guide your cat to specific rooms and distract her with treats and toys before leaving. Then, upon entering, you can do the same by guiding her to a secure area where you can greet her and give her praise for being a good kitty that didn’t run out.Certain Products Might HelpFinally, if necessary, you might need to use deterrents, such as double-sided tape, sheets of aluminum foil, or a motion-activated spray that’s designed for safely training pets. These tactics might help keep your kitty away from the door so you can have some peace of mind.

Keeping Your Cat Stress-Free This New Year’s Eve

There may be loud fireworks outside, and if you’re hosting a party at home, there will be a lot of noisy people inside as well. This could all be stressful to a kitty who prefers a quiet and calm environment. How can you keep your kitty as stress-free as possible this New Year’s Eve? Here are a few tips to consider. Give Your Cat a Room to Relax InWhile all of your guests are indulging in delicious food and enjoying each other’s company, your cat might not want to be in the mix. If your kitty tends to get stressed around strangers or around a lot of people, give her a quiet room to relax in until the party is over. This might be your bedroom, where your pet can nap on your bed without being disturbed. Set up your cat’s food and water bowls in the room so she won’t need to go far if she wants to eat or drink. You might even opt to put her cat tree in the room if it’s normally in the living room. That way, you can give your pet her own space to retreat to with her catnip and toys. In addition to giving your cat the chance to decide if and when she wants to be around everyone, making sure she has a safe place to be while the party is going on can give you peace of mind because you won’t need to worry about her accidentally getting outside while people are coming and going. Try Calming Products That Are Made for CatsThere are a variety of calming products that you can try in order to help keep your kitty feel at ease this New Year’s Eve. Feline pheromones are available in the forms of diffusers and sprays, and they can be a good place to start. There are also flower essences that you can consider using. And you can find calming treats that might work well for your kitty too. Before purchasing any of these types of products, read the ingredients carefully to be sure they are safe for cats. And follow the directions closely to use them safely and correctly. Consider What Your Cat Already EnjoysAnother way to help keep your pet’s stress level low is by focusing on what she already enjoys. Does she like it when you play soft music, or when she can sit and look out the window for hours? Perhaps she likes watching videos of birds on your computer screen, or playing with a new catnip toy. Basically, if you give your pet her favorite things that can distract her and keep her content, she might not be bothered by the noise of New Year’s Eve. Check on Your Cat OftenFinally, even if you’ve taken a lot of steps to help ensure your cat won’t be stressed out on New Year’s Eve, it is still a good idea to check on her every now and then throughout the night. If you notice that she is looking a little frazzled, give her the calming assurance she needs to know that she’s safe.

Queen Elizabeth's Corgis To Stay In the Family Following Her Passing

The late Queen’s love for Corgis was widely known – she got her first Pembroke Welsh Corgi named Susan for her 18th birthday in 1944, and has never been without a pooch by her side since then. She owned more than 30 dogs during her 70-year reign, and while Corgis were definitely her favored breed – she didn’t own this breed exclusively. In fact, she is credited for creating the crossbreed Dorgi, when one of her Corgis mated with her sister’s, Princess Margaret, dachshund, producing a litter of cute, short-legged mixed breeds. Even so, in the last few years, as Queen started experiencing more and more mobility issues, the numbers of her pets dwindled, as many of them died from old age and she decided to stop breeding new ones, as she was unwilling to leave young dogs behind when she died. She did, however, receive two puppies from her son, the Duke of York, also known as Prince Andrew, and his former wife, Sarah, Duchess of York, just last year. Muick and Sandy, as the puppies are named, quickly become faithful companions to the Queen and her two dogs, a 15-year-old Dorgi named Candy, and a 4-year-old Cocker Spaniel, Lissy.Naturally, following the news of Queen Elizabeth’s passing, dog lovers all over the world were wondering what will happen to her beloved dogs, now that she’s not around to care for them. A spokesperson for the Duke of York shed a light on the situation by notifying the public that Prince Andrew and his ex-wife, Duchess Sarah, will be adopting Muick and Sandy to live with them at Windsor, a large country estate where they both live. Presumably, as they were the ones to gift the Queen the puppies in the first place, they are the ones to continue caring for them now that she’s gone.As for the elderly Candy and the champion Lissy, it remains unclear what their fate will be. Surely, though, they will spend their remaining days as the Queen would want them to – surrounded by love and pampered like they were by her side. All that remains now is to wait and see which of the Queen family members will be the ones to provide that for these two pooches!

Adoptable Dog of the Week – Rickey

This handsome boy is looking for his forever home – could you be the one to give him the happy ending he deserves? Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Rickey, a one year old Beagle and Chihuahua mix (a Cheagle, if you prefer), from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. This ginger beauty is neutered, up to date on his shots, microchipped, and current on heartworm, flea, and tick preventatives. Rickey is housetrained, and does well with other dogs and older children, but hasn’t been tested around cats. Rickey’s TaleRickey was left at the shelter by his previous owner due to landlord troubles – but he’s more than ready to get his second chance with a family that will love and cherish him forever. He weighs only 13 pounds, so he’d be a great choice for an apartment dweller looking for a small pooch that is well-behaved and would do well in any setting – Rickey is house trained and crate trained, so he really is very well-mannered. A loving soul, he is eager to please and could learn so much more with a patient, committed owner that would like to teach him some new tricks – he’d be more than happy to show off his smarts! A friendly dog, Rickey gets along with other dogs and wouldn't mind a canine sibling in the family, even though he would do just as well as the only pet in the home. He does well with older, respectful children but hasn’t been tested around cats since coming into the rescue – if you have a feline and are considering adopting Rickey, it’s best to contact his rescuers for more information. If you want to be the one to show Rickey what real love means and pamper this adorable boy just like he deserves, contact Dogs As Family, Inc. to learn more about him and the adoption process.

BARK Customizes Dog Food To Ensure The Best Diet For Your Best Friend

They’re all great products and there’s nothing dogs look more forward to than a fun package full of goodies arriving at their door just for them! Except now maybe they’ll be even more excited because BARK has breed-specific dog food, BARK Food. As is BARK’s usual, there’s a lot more to it than just a great product. Their website is full of useful information for your dog and their breed, and even the pickiest of dogs seem to love the delicious, made-in-the-USA formulas. And now, you can save 30% off your first BARK Food order with code PETGUIDE30.What’s Included?BARK Food is one of the products parent company BARK offers for delivery to your furry best friends. BARK was founded in 2012 and has grown to be an industry leader in subscription options for dogs. BARK’s goal has always been to enhance the lives of our dogs, and in an easy way. What’s easier than something coming straight to your door and making your dog’s day? Not much, we say.BARK Food: The Same Great Customer Experience as All Their Other Products

Ask the Animal Communicator: My Dog Is Always Hungry!

Dear Shannon, My dog, Maxie, is a seven-year-old Border Collie. She is a delightful companion – smart, sociable, and very gentle with our kids and their friends. There is just one problem. She is a bottomless pit. I swear she is never not hungry! We’ve had to dog-proof the refrigerator because Maxie figured out how to open it. We can’t store food in the bottom kitchen cupboards or the lower shelves of the pantry because Maxie will steal it and make such a mess. And when our family sits down for meals she paces and stares and whines and visits each of us, nudging us with her nose and paws and just generally being a pest. We don’t have people over that often, but when we do we have to confine Maxie to the bedroom to keep her away from the appetizers….and the guests. I’ve tried feeding Maxie more often (she gets a special kibble that her veterinarian recommends for her age and life stage) and we’ve tried using treat toys and slow feeders, but nothing works to take the edge off her hunger. Her vet says she is healthy and her latest labs look good. I don’t know what else to try.Can you talk to her?Polly, mom to Maxie, the all-you-can-eat dogShannon’s reply:Hi Polly,First things first – I want you to know I can personally relate to what you share. We have a dachshund who acts like we haven’t fed him in a week every time he eats….and every time we eat. Just so you know I get how irritating and frustrating your situation can feel!It sounds like you have an excellent canine veterinarian who is doing all the right things to make sure Maxie’s constant hunger doesn’t point to an underlying health imbalance. I think when you hear what Maxie had to share with me, her behavior will make more sense and generate some new ideas you can try.Maxie does come across as very intelligent, high energy and playful. She is a joyful being who loves her life and her family – you. But when I asked her about food, her energy turned chaotic. By that I mean – she showed me that she is clearly as frustrated by the situation as you are.I asked Maxie what her favorite food is, and she showed me a big plate piled high with all kinds of different colorful foods. The platter was steaming hot and had the most enticing aromas. It definitely looked a lot more like “people” food than dog kibble. This food had a lot of different tastes and textures and she showed me herself sitting around the table eating with you just like she was a person instead of a dog.When I showed her a mental picture of herself eating the kibble you described out of her dog bowl, her energy suddenly felt very subdued and sad. When I showed her a mental picture of the yummy platter again and her sitting at the table with you, her energy perked back up again.Next, I used some applied kinesiology to ask Maxie if she would benefit from more of a home-cooked diet rather than dog kibble and got a strong “yes.” Of course you should talk with your veterinarian to choose the best fresh food diet, whether raw, reconstituted fresh or something in between. Then I asked Maxie to tell me about her begging behaviors and she showed me an image of a whole group of dogs gathered together having fun. Then off to the side, away from the happy group, she showed me herself looking sad and lonely. The feeling that came with this image was one of being left out rather than hungry. Maxie comes across as a dog who loves to be the life of the party and chairperson of the guest greeting committee. She wants to have a part to play in your family – it almost feels like she is asking for a job to do and a way to participate. You may want to brainstorm some special “jobs” Maxie could do when you have parties and even when you are preparing daily meals. For example, if she knows how to open the frig, perhaps this could be a job she does for you to “help” you as you are getting dinner ready.Polly, I truly hope this information helps you to find some balance between mealtime harmony and meeting Maxie’s needs for meal variety and socialization. Please do keep in touch and let me know how it goes.From my heart,Shannon

Is Your Cat Overweight or Just Big Boned?

I mean, in humans, we tend to write off extra weight as simply being in our genes and out of our control… but is that also the case with housecats? Time for a deeper dive into this important subject.And we’ll start by making that all-important diagnosis: is my cat really fat or just “fluffy”?Determining an Overweight Condition:There are three ways to answer this question and they’re all fairly straightforward.1) Weigh her. If she’s a domestic housecat, the average weight for a small or medium feline should be between 7 and 13 pounds with males being at the higher end of the range. Yes, different breeds may weigh heavier than others and no, a fluffy coat will never account for those extra pounds. If she’s a pure-bred, check out the average weights for that breed and aim to bring her down to within that range if she’s tipping the scales at more than recommended. 2) Get touchy-feely. Yes, rub your hands along her rib-cage, her back and even up and down her tail. You should easily feel her ribs, spine and even her tail bone – not to the point they’re jutting out, but certainly the shape and outline. Now, if your feline pal is carrying extra weight, you’re going to find yourself searching a little more than you should have to. 3) Eyeball her. You see your pet every day, but do you actually look at her physique with a critical eye? Check her out from behind when she’s sitting – does her lower half tend to hang over her back legs? Look at her from above – is her mid-section wider than her back hip joints? And when she’s walking, does her abdomen hang low. Not the saggy wobble that most cats have, but a deeper, thicker torso that looks abnormally large. And be aware that the dangly flap under her belly and affectionally dubbed “dewlap” is in fact important to your pet’s anatomy and not necessarily indicative of a weight problem. It’s called a primordial pouch and it actually serves a purpose. Yes, that extra flap is there to help protect her vital organs from predator attacks – these days, more likely a playful pooch or another feline.If you’re still not sure, try downloading one of the many Body Condition Score charts that are posted in every vet’s office. They’re easily found online and all will include visuals from the side and above, with a numbered ranking. If you recognize your pet’s profile under anything over a “6”, then she’s considered overweight and it’s time to re-evaluate her lifestyle.Reducing That Excess WeightIf your pet’s extra pounds are not due to a medical condition, it’s time to get to work. And just like humans, weight loss is down to becoming more active and reducing calorie intake.Activity:If she’s an indoor cat, appeal to her natural prey drive and use puzzle-feeders and cat foraging toys that will make her work for her meal. If space allows, there are a number of outdoor enclosures that will allow her to move around, climb and become more active. And if she’s settled into a comfortable lounge-around routine, plan to devote at least 30 minutes a day to get her active. Toss catnip toys, use laser pointers or engage her with feathery wands that will encourage her to leap, chase and become mentally as well as physically stimulated.There are also myriad websites devoted to our feline friends that offer up mice, birds and squirrels she can watch and swat at. Remember, the goal is movement and even just a little, is better than having her curled up and sleeping all day.Food:Cats are natural carnivores and today’s foods – even those pricey, healthy blends – can rely on carbs to deliver the fullness and flavours your pet enjoys. The solution can be two-fold and includes swapping out a strictly kibble-based diet, for one that includes wet foods. The moisture in wet food helps with fluid intake and can provide that sense of feeling “full” without over-eating. It also leads to the need to establish meal periods versus free-feeding. Because cats – unlike dogs – tend to pick and eat when the mood strikes, how easy has it become to simply leave out a bowl of kibble and allow Fifi to graze throughout the day. Wet food requires dispensing and this means set feeding times and no more grazing.And, just like humans who eliminate snacking between meals and late at night, losing weight becomes a natural outcome. If your pet’s weight has become a serious concern, speak to your vet about swapping out her regular food for a low-calorie variation and slowly transition her from her favorite flavor/brand to the new one.Repercussions of Retaining Extra Weight:Overweight and obese pets are subject to the same serious medical conditions as their doting pet parents. Heart disease and diabetes that can require daily medications, osteoarthritis that can compromise her quality of life and even liver disease and painful pancreatitis. These ailments are not only debilitating to your pet but can be expensive to diagnose, treat and then monitor over time. And while feline obesity is becoming more common in North America, it’s also a growing concern among veterinarians who see this serious medical condition often going unaddressed. If you notice a weight gain in your pet, find her noshing down at all hours and becoming disinterested in toys or activity, don’t put it down to a cat simply being a cat. You owe it to her to get her moving, eating properly and living her best life.

How Do I Stop My Cat From Messing With the Christmas Tree

From kitties who can’t resist knocking shiny ornaments off the branches, to adventurous cats who want to climb to the top of the tree, frisky felines can be hard to stop once they discover that they have a new place to play. Plus, there are dangers to consider, whether you opt to put up an artificial tree or a real one (e.g., your cat shouldn’t eat the pine needles, chew on the lights, tinsel, garland, etc., or drink the tree water). The good news is it is possible to decorate for the holidays and keep your cat safe and happy. Here are a few tips. Use Various DeterrentsRather than using just one type of feline deterrent, using multiple types might be effective at keeping your cat away from the tree throughout the holiday season. For example, to stop your kitty from getting too close to the tree, you could set down some double-sided tape or aluminum foil around its base. In addition, you could set up a can of motion-activated spray that’s made specifically for pets and will blow air on your kitty when she approaches the tree.Because cats tend to dislike the smell of citrus fruits, you could even consider putting some lemon zest in a small plastic baggie with holes in it to let the scent come through. Hang this from your tree so your kitty will be able to smell it as she gets close to it. If she finds the odor offensive, she may go the other way. Make the Tree Less Appealing If you have a lot of big ornaments dangling from all of the tree’s branches, your kitty might find them irresistible. So, the simple act of switching to different ornaments, and placing them on higher branches that are out of reach, might make a difference. Also, using twist ties rather than hooks might help keep the ornaments on the tree, even if your cat goes after them. It’s a good idea to ensure your pet’s environment has plenty to keep her busy throughout the season. By providing her with new toys to play with and her own spaces to explore, such as a new kitty condo, cat tree, or window perch, you might be able to reduce her interest in the Christmas tree. Make It Hard for Your Cat to Reach the TreeWhere you set up the tree is important, too. If you can, place it away from your furniture, as well as a good distance from any kitty furniture, like cat trees, that your feline would use to jump onto the tree. You might even decide to set up a small fence around the tree to see if it provides enough of a barrier to keep your pet away. If she isn’t the type to jump over the pet gate to get to the tree, this might be all you need to stop your kitty from chewing on branches and knocking down ornaments. Ensure the Tree Is StableNo matter where you set up your tree or how big it is, ensuring it’s stable is key. In addition to using a secure base, find ways to anchor the tree from the top and sides as well. That way, it may be less likely to fall over, especially if your cat does manage to jump onto it.

Ask the Animal Communicator: I Don’t Think My Pets Like Each Other

Dear Shannon, Our family loves rescuing dogs. Over the years, we have adopted many dogs from our favorite local shelter. And our dogs have always gotten along just fine….until now. Our big (70-pound) mixed breed girl, Mollie, has always had a sweet and accepting personality towards our other rescue dogs. She is a great family watchdog and was very protective of our kids when they were little. But now Mollie is getting older and is more sedentary, so when a litter of new puppies was recently rescued to the shelter, we felt like we had the time and energy required to take in a puppy. Our new little girl, Bella, is a real handful – the shelter staff think she has a lot of Jack Russell Terrier in her and we agree. It’s been a bit crazy to be honest – we even have baby gates and puppy-proof locks everywhere around the house to keep her out of trouble! While we just love Bella, Mollie hasn’t been so welcoming. I’ve never seen Mollie snap at anyone or anything until Bella arrived. Bella is fascinated with Mollie and is always wanting to snuggle and play together but Mollie won’t have anything to do with her. I’m worried we may have to return Bella or risk Mollie getting aggressive with her. Can you help us figure out how to help the two of them get along? A worried dog mom, Carla Shannon’s reply:Hi Carla,Thank you for sharing what is going on in your interspecies family. The more we learn about non-human animal relationships, the more we discover that dogs, like people, often prefer to choose their own friends. This doesn’t mean two dogs can’t develop a friendship over time, even if they didn’t get along at first. This is especially the case when the reason the two dogs don’t get along has more to do with their individual needs or life stages than with any lack of friendship “chemistry” between them.I am not a dog trainer or dog behaviorist, and these types of services can often be helpful in sorting out situations like what you are experiencing. As an animal communicator, I bring a different skillset, which is an ability to directly ask Mollie and Bella what they need to live peacefully together as members of your family.When I tune in with Bella, what I receive is exactly the energy you describe – playful, bouncy, upbeat, let’s be friends energy. She is keen to fit in, eager to bond and so, so grateful to have a home. Bella shares that she misses her mom and littermates and sees Mollie as a source of canine comfort in her chaotic life to date. Bella also shares that she sees Mollie’s rebuffs as a game. In other words, she doesn’t take Mollie’s refusal to engage seriously which is why she just keeps on trying.When I tune in with Mollie, her energy is completely different than Bella’s – reserved, calm, self-contained. Mollie tells me that she is the family matriarch. She keeps the order in your family and – even more importantly – the peace. Mollie tells me she wishes she had been consulted before the decision was made to adopt Bella. She also tells me she is worried that Bella is her “replacement” and that she doesn’t think Bella has the right skillset to do a good job guarding and protecting your family. You might think that all this doesn’t bode well for Bella to stay with your family. But there is one thing I shared with Mollie that she wasn’t aware of that I think may tip the scales in Bella’s favor. Mollie didn’t know that Bella is motherless. She didn’t understand why you adopted Bella – that you took her in because Bella was abandoned as a puppy and didn’t have a home or a family.When I shared this information with Mollie, I could literally feel her irritation downshift into compassion. I asked Mollie if she would be willing to make more of an effort to mother Bella, teach her the ropes of being a family dog, play with her and also instill some discipline. And Mollie told me she is willing to do this. The more I do this work of interspecies communication, the more I realize how our companion animals see more than we think they see and know more than we realize they know. But often they still don’t have the complete picture of why we do what we do. And because we don’t realize how much they see and know, we rarely stop and take time to consider the bigger picture of how our actions and choices alter their lives.Mollie asks that, in the future, could you please let her know if you are planning any other big additions or changes to your family? She wants to be in the know and to be consulted about these important decisions. Bella just wants to say thank you for adopting her. She says her high energy is one part gratitude and one part relief that she finally has a forever home. Carla, I hope this information is beneficial for you and your family. Please keep in touch and let me know how the relationship between Mollie and Bella unfolds.From my heart,Shannon

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