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Marine Veteran Opens a Pup-alicious Christmas Present [Video]

Lori Ennis
by Lori Ennis
December 16th, 2016 12:00 AM
marine veteran opens a pup alicious christmas present video
Many war veterans return from service suffering the effects of PTSD. One Florida veteran received a surprise early Christmas gift that will bring a few tears to your eyes.


Christmas came early for 26-year-old Marine Veteran Peter Coukoulis, from Tallahassee, Florida, when his family surprised him with a sweet little Beagle puppy. The shelter that the pup was rescued from had been calling her “Willa” because she seemed to have the will to live, and the Peter’s family thought that was the perfect pet for him.

Peter joined the Marine Corps when he was just 18-years-old, and in that time, he was deployed to the violently dangerous Helmand Province in Afghanistan. During the seven months he was stationed there, he saw many traumatic war events that left lasting effects, specifically an incident in which Peter’s unit lost a beloved bomb-detecting dog and his fellow Marine when they were killed by an IED. Obviously, that left a scar on Peter’s heart, and his mother, Dena, who gave him the dog, said that his life changed in that moment.


Related: Canine Heroes Help US Veterans with Brain Injuries


Peter left the Marine Corps three years ago, but Dena is worried daily that Peter could be one of the 22 veterans a day who end their lives because of the pain of PTSD, so she knew she had to get him a puppy before Christmas.


Growing up, Peter had a beagle named Jackie, who he adored, but sadly died while he was at war. His family told him she’d died while he was gone the day he returned home, and so they knew that the sweet little beagle gal would quickly and easily find her way into Peter’s heart.


Which is exactly what happened! One of Peter’s family members filmed as they presented the wrapped box to Peter, and once Peter realized the moving, yippy box had a puppy in it, his face melted into tears of disbelief. As he held the puppy, which he’s yet to name, (though family says he’s leaning toward ‘Jenny’ after the character Jenny in ‘Forrest Gump’) she gave him lots of baby doggie licks and Peter happily returned with little kisses on the beagle’s nose while the tears of joy freely fell.


Related: Paws For Veterans Trains Rescue Dogs To Help Heroes With PTSD


Since Peter left the Corps, he’s been working hard to reintegrate into civilian life, though he’s still traumatized by many of the events he saw and was a participant to while in Afghanistan. Being a the wife of a Marine who spent a year in Afghanistan myself, I know the effects of what these brave men and women see is life-changing.


I won’t lie. I cried a little (okay, a lot!) watching Peter and his new girl, and knowing how she will help her new Daddy rebuild the life he so deserves after his sacrifice and service. I mean, his face when she gives him sweet kisses for the first time? Can’t. Even.

WOW
Lori Ennis
Lori Ennis

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If Your Dog Eats Fast, Green Interactive Feeder Forces Him to Slow Dow

Does your dog eat fast? Slow down meals with this interactive feeder It’s no shock to learn that today’s pets are getting fatter. Besides diet and exercise, there are other measures you can take to help regulate your dog’s weight. If your dog eats fast and then starts begging for more food, an innovative product that can help is the Green Interactive Feeder. Remember how your parents always told you not to play with your food? Well, the same doesn’t hold true with your pets. If your dog eats fast, you know about the dangers of bloat or the risk of vomiting, gagging and unpleasant gasses. Green Interactive Feeder turns meal time into play time, while forcing your dog to slow down and work for his food. How The Green Interactive Feeder Works No matter what size your pooch is, this interactive feeder fits perfectly. Designed to stimulate while slowing the eating process, Green resembles a patch of grass. Just pour your dog’s allotted mealtime kibble in between the blades of grass and watch him go to work. He’ll use is tongue and nose to get at those tasty morsels. Watch the video below to see a hungry pup in action… it’s entertaining to watch! Green Interactive Feeder turns meal time into play time, while forcing your dog to slow down and work for his food. Green Pluses If your dog eats fast, Green prolongs meal time. This means there won’t be any puking, gagging or smelly gas issues to deal with. Even worse is the threat of bloat, an issue cause by fast eating that can result in death. While your pup is busy figuring out how to get at his din-din, you can sit down to yours without having to deal with a pair of pleading eyes looking up at you for scraps. The Green Interactive Feeder is made from hard plastic (without phthalates), can be used both indoors and out and is dishwasher safe. You can learn more about the product and where to buy it on the Green Interactive Feeder website. Does your dog eat fast or is he on a restricted calorie diet? Would you try a product like Green Interactive Feeder? Do you have tips to help dogs slow down while eating? Please leave us your comments in the section below. As well, watch the video of the Green Interactive Feeder in action – it’s fun to watch!

Poodle

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

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Chesapeake Bay Retriever Basics For many people, understanding dogs is simple. They find a friendly, loyal, easy-to-get-along with breed like the Golden Retriever or Labrador Retriever and they’ll never want for a good friend again. But for the dog lover who appreciates all sorts of breeds, the Retriever doesn’t only sporty, friendly dog most of us grew up learning about. There’s more to the retriever story, and one only has to travel to the United States – and the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, specifically – to find it. Of course, by now you know we’re referring to the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, perhaps one of the great under-appreciated dog breeds out there. You won’t have to look far to find a quality dog after you’ve encounter a Chesapeake Bay Retriever or two; many times, whether you live on your own or with a family, a great Chesapeake Bay Retriever will be exactly what you’ve been looking for in a dog. The uniquely American heritage and breeding is a benefit to those of us who keep our dog breeds simply and domestic. Here’s a little bit more about this great breed of dog that more people should be talking about. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a classic retriever when it comes to behavior and training. Origin You don’t have to be a rocket scientist or, more fittingly, a dog historian to figure out where the Chesapeake Bay Retriever hails from. It’s not a trick question: the Chesapeake Bay Retriever does indeed trace the origins of its unique breed to the Chesapeake bay on the Atlantic seaboard of the United States. What’s unique about the origins of the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, however, is that you can trace their lineage to two very specific dogs. These dogs, named Sailor and Canton, were brought to Maryland at the dawn of the 19th century and bred with other dogs in order to create a breed unique in and of itself. These two dogs weren’t Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, but they were known as Newfoundland dogs, which suggest that you can indeed trace the history of the Chesapeake Bay Retrieve further back if you want. The retriever has become a favorite in the Maryland and Chesapeake Bay area, even becoming Maryland’s state dog in 1964. If the history of Sailor and Canton is ever challenged, we at least know that the breed was recognized as its own in the late 19th century, not unlike many breeds we would consider “older” than the Chesapeake Bay Retriever.

American English Coonhound

American English Coonhound Basics A true Southern U.S. dog, the American English Coonhound loves to hunt. Loud-voiced and hard-working, the American English Coonhound is one of six official Coonhound breeds. Renowned for its speed, endurance, intelligence, and athleticism, this dog loves to be on the move. Good with children and friendly with strangers, you’ll find this dog to be fairly easy to train, making it a great family pet for novice owners. It will alert you (loudly) of strangers entering your property, but will make fast friends with anyone who gives it attention. This makes the American Coonhound a good watchdog, but not the best guard dog. Alert, confident and friendly to people and dogs, the American English Coonhound fits in well with a variety of households. Active owners will find that it makes a wonderful companion, especially if you like to spend time outdoors with a high-energy pet. Although not suited to apartment living, this breed loves to be with its people and will thrive in a loving household. If this is the first time you’ve heard of the American English Coonhound, read on – this dog may just be the perfect fit for your family. A true Southern U.S. dog, the American English Coonhound loves to hunt. Origin The American English Coonhound was first brought to the United States by European settlers during the 17th and 18th centuries. First called “Virginia Hounds (and imported to the U.S. by Robert Brooke, Thomas Walker and George Washington), the American Coonhound was bred to adapt to a more rigorous terrain. These dogs were used to hunt raccoons and the American Red Fox. The American Coonhound was also used to hunt opossums, cougars, deer, boars, bobcats and bears. In 1905 the English Coonhound was first registered by UKC under the name of English Fox & Coonhound.

Teach Your Dog To Be A Canine Good Citizen

Is your dog a Canine Good Citizen? Your dog knows the basics when it comes to obedience, but it’s time to take it to the next level. Your dog can be a Canine Good Citizen! Sure, you may think your pup is already pretty awesome, but you can make sure that your dog has all the good manners to be considered a Canine Good Citizen. Plus, you’ll get a fancy-schmancy certificate to hang on the wall and brag about. What Is The Canine Good Citizen Program? Set up by the American Kennel Club in 1989, the Canine Good Citizen Program (CGC) rewards dogs that have good manners both at home and in the community. To complete the program, your dog must pass the two-part, 10-step CGC test. Not only will this program teach your dog good manners, but it also focuses on responsible dog ownership for you. Reasons to take the Canine Good Citizen Test Of course, better doggy manners and a certificate from the American Kennel Club are enticing reasons, but there are more benefits that come with it. If you’re just starting out on obedience training, it’s a dynamite place to start. Once you start the training process, the bond between you and your dog will grow stronger. And kids can get into the fun too – there are club across North American that offer courses just for kids and canines. By performing and mastering the steps in the Canine Good Citizen program, you’ll notice your dog picking up good habits. These include responding well to household routines, having good manners in around people and other dogs, and loving their owner that much more (if that’s even possible!). And there’s no telling where this will lead you. After you finish up with the Canine Good Citizen program, there’s nothing stopping you from tackling agility, tracking, and performance events. You may think your pup is already pretty awesome, but you can make sure that your dog has all the good manners to be considered a Canine Good Citizen. What Dogs Can Participate? Any dog can be a Canine Good Citizen! Pure and mix breeds are welcome to take the test. And there are no age limits. Young pups and senior pooches are eligible. Dogs must be old enough to have received necessary immunizations (such as rabies vaccines). Depending on where your dog takes the test, there may be few exceptions relating to participation. If you take it at an AKC show or with a dog training school, you’ll have to abide by the regulations set out by the organization. Where Do You Go For The Test? Countries all over the world offer the training and testing for the course. Breed and dog clubs, dog training schools and community clubs offer Canine Good Citizen training and can administer the official test. As well, dogs can be tested during AKC shows. Do you think your dog has what it takes to be a Canine Good Citizen? Are you interested in learned more? Learn more about it at the American Kennel Club’s website. You can see the full list of steps and requirements after the jump. And tell us how many of the 10 steps your dog can already do by leaving a comment. AKC Canine Good Citizen Test Test 1: Accepting a friendly stranger The dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach it and speak to the handler in a natural, everyday situation. Test 2: Sitting politely for petting The dog will allow a friendly stranger to pet it while it is out with its handler. Test 3: Appearance and grooming The dog will welcome being groomed and examined and will permit someone, such as a veterinarian, groomer or friend of the owner, to do so. Test 4: Out for a walk (walking on a loose lead) The handler/dog team will take a short “walk” to show that the dog is in control while walking on a leash. Test 5: Walking through a crowd The dog and handler walk around and pass close to several people (at least three) to demonstrate that the dog can move about politely in pedestrian traffic and is under control in public places. Test 6: Sit and down on command and Staying in place The dog will respond to the handler’s commands to 1) sit, 2) down and will 3) remain in the place commanded by the handler (sit or down position, whichever the handler prefers). Test 7: Coming when called The dog will come when called by the handler. The handler will walk 10 feet from the dog, turn to face the dog, and call the dog. Test 8: Reaction to another dog To demonstrate that the dog can behave politely around other dogs, two handlers and their dogs approach each other from a distance of about 20 feet, stop, shake hands and exchange pleasantries, and continue on for about 10 feet. Test 9: Reaction to distraction To demonstrate the dog is confident when faced with common distracting situations, the evaluator will select and present two distractions. Examples of distractions include dropping a chair, rolling a crate dolly past the dog, having a jogger run in front of the dog, or dropping a crutch or cane. Test 10: Supervised separation This test demonstrates that a dog can be left with a trusted person, if necessary, and will maintain training and good manners. Evaluators are encouraged to say something like, “Would you like me to watch your dog?” and then take hold of the dog’s leash. The owner will go out of sight for three minutes.

New Law Means Mexico Will Stop Euthanizing Retired Police Dogs

After serving your community bravely, you shouldn’t be rewarded with death! That’s what Mexican K9 dogs had to look forward to… but now they’ll be adopted out to loving families! At long last, Mexican officials are saying “sí” to giving their aging police K9s the retirement they deserve. Prior to the the heavily fought for announcement that they would ultimately stay the executions of these loyal canine commandos, the country simply euthanized the dogs after their days of service were over. The faulty logic of officials was that they feared these uber-trained pooches might end up in the hands of the drug cartels. “Just imagine what a drug cartel could actually do with a battalion of fully trained, ex-police dogs!” Hmmm… I don’t know, what could they do with them? Find the drugs? They already know where the drugs are… Get them to tell secrets? Anyway, I tend to digress when things don’t make sense. Victor Hugo Martinez is the director of the country’s K9 unit and he’s just chuffed with the decision. “They deserve it. For almost their entire lives they’ve done nothing but serve the nation, and they’ve been the best companions.” Damn straight, Victor! Related: Retired TSA Dogs are Looking for a Loving Home So, the “Mexican standoff” has finally ended as it should. Retired pooches will be properly thanked for their service, honored with medals, adopted out to families and then carefully monitored to ensure their proper care – and that they haven’t found a way to slip secrets to the cartels. José Luis Pairo runs the Federacion Canofila Mexicana (FCM) who will be in charge of finding the four-legged heroes their forever homes. “If we’re careful with the adoption process, we can check out the families [looking to adopt] and make sure they can give them a good home.” Good news all around for the pooches, their handlers and the lucky families who will welcome these heroes.

Concert Cellist Performs for Florida Humane Society Shelter

Professional cellist Natalie Helm performed for a very select group of furry music lovers Florida’s Humane Society of Sarasota County – and the dogs loved it! Black tie was optional for a recent performance by principal cellist of the Sarasota Orchestra, Natalie Helm. Also optional were tickets, a program and, well, clothing. No, the talented cellist wasn’t playing to a theater full of nudists, but a kennel full of adoptable rescues who just couldn’t get enough of the soothing strings. It was during a recent visit to her local shelter that the performer came up with the idea. In her words, “I know it’s very cliché, but music is a language that everyone appreciates and understands.” She thought her talents could prove beneficial to the homeless hounds and she was “spot” on (get it?) Related: Study Finds That Classical Music Calms Kennel Dogs For anyone who has visited a rescue shelter, the noise, energy and stress levels are through the roof for the lonesome little soles – one of the main reasons that Florida’s Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC) was so quick to take Helm up on her offer of a special command performance. Just imagine the surprise of the caged pooches as Helm set up her chair, sat down with her cello and began to play. “I could really sense they were enjoying it. There was a great feeling of peacefulness that spread quickly through the kennels.” The musician confirms she plans many return engagements at this particular venue. Related: Music That’s Made Just for Dogs Fights Anxiety and Depression While not all shelters can deliver live performances, many do pipe in classical music which has proven to be an effective tool for calming rescues with studies showing that dogs’ stress levels really do decrease after music is played in their kennels. [Source: The Bark]

Blue Ridge Beef Recalls Frozen Turkey With Bone Dog Food

Blue Ridge Beef is voluntarily recalling one of its frozen products due to the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. The affected products are sold in 2 lb chubs and can be identified with the following manufacturing codes: Lot mfd12716 Turkey with bone UPC code 854298001887 The affected products were distributed to retail stores in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. Listeria can affect animals eating the product and there is a risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surface exposed to these products. Consumers who have purchased the above lot of turkey for dogs are urged to stop feeding them and return products to the place of purchase for a full refund, or dispose of them immediately. Those with questions can email the company at blueridgebeefga@yahoo.com.

Irish Wolfhound Breaks Guinness World Record for Longest Tail [Video]

When he gets happy, watch out when he wags! This pooch just set a new world record with his lengthy tail, which measures in at 30.2 inches!

Belgian Tervuren

Belgian Tervuren Basics With his expressive eyes and gorgeous long coat, one would think that the Belgian Tervuren is simply just a beautiful dog that would lie around the house looking pretty. Nothing is further from the truth. Although he does enjoy relaxing on the couch with his family, the Belgian Tervuren is athletic, agile and has an undying work ethic. He is brave and protective of his family, making him a great candidate for being a watchdog as well as a companion. Known to enthusiasts as the Terv, this breed is one of the Belgian dogs bred to heard and protect sheep. Because of their intense herding instincts, Belgian Tervurens might very well help you round up your children. To learn more about this beautiful and loyal breed, read on. The Belgian Tervuren is athletic, agile and has an undying work ethic. Origin Originating in the farming village of Tervuren in Belgium, the Belgian Tervuren swiftly became the all-purpose dog that villagers had longed to have. In the 1800s, his keen herding skills and protective nature proved to make him a great asset to the farmers and their families. Pedigree

Last Chance to Win a NES Classic Edition

Would you like a brand new NES Classic Edition delivered to your door? The Nintendo NES Classic Edition is one of the most sought after products on the market today, making it very hard to come by. There’s no need to be discouraged if you haven’t got your hands on one yet, because there’s still time to enter to win one from the WiseGuide! Simply follow the link below for your chance to win, but don’t delay, because the contest closes this Friday, January 20th. While you’re at it sign up for the WiseGuide newsletter to receive future notifications of great product giveaways.

Ups and Downs: Understanding Feline Diabetes

Did you know that there are two types of diabetes that cats can suffer from? Watch for these symptoms of feline diabetes and how to treat this disease. Feline diabetes mellitus, which is also referred to as sugar diabetes, occurs when your pet’s body is unable to produce or utilize insulin properly. The disease is divided into non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Understanding this feline disease, including what its typical causes and symptoms are, can help you take steps to potentially prevent it from occurring, as well as get your cat treatment right away in the event that symptoms arise. How Insulin Works in the Body Insulin, which is a hormone that’s made by the pancreas, is used to regulate the movement of glucose from your cat’s blood to the cells throughout his body that need it. Related: How a Cat Exercise Wheel Can Fight Obesity If insulin is ineffective or deficient, you kitty’s body will begin breaking down protein and fat in order to access alternative sources of energy. Your cat will end up consuming more food but will end up losing weight despite his appetite. This also results in high sugar levels in the blood, which your cat will eliminate through the urine, leading to excessive thirst and urination. Most Common Symptoms There are four typical symptoms that are associated with diabetes mellitus. If you notice your cat exhibiting these signs, a trip to the vet is necessary to receive a proper diagnosis and begin treatment right away. Increased appetiteWeight lossIncreased thirstIncreased urination If you don’t give your diabetic cat the treatment that he needs, the disease will shorten his life. It may also result in ketoacidosis, which is dangerous and sometimes fatal. Related: How Much Should I Feed My Cat? Untreated diabetes may also lead to liver disease, secondary bacterial infections, and unhealthy coat and skin. And diabetic neuropathy might cause your kitty to get progressively weaker, particularly in his hind legs, resulting in an inability to walk or jump properly. Causes of Diabetes Mellitus in Cats Diabetes mellitus occurs most often in obese, older felines, and male kitties are also more commonly affected. However, it can affect any cat. Even though the exact cause isn’t known, there are several factors that can contribute to its development. These include: Chronic pancreatitisHormonal ailments, such as Cushing’s disease, acromegaly, and hyperthyroidismSome medications, such as corticosteroids and megestrol acetateObesity Treatments for Diabetes Mellitus Every cat is unique, so your vet will need to thoroughly examine your pet to determine the best treatment for his diabetes. Some kitties are easier to treat than others, and some may need treatment for the rest of their lives. Treatment options for cats with diabetes include daily insulin injections, oral medications, and dietary changes. In addition to giving your cat the appropriate treatment as prescribed by your vet, you should also provide your pet with a stress-free environment and a consistent feeding schedule. You can discuss feeding options with your vet, particularly if it is recommended that your cat lose weight. Closely monitoring your cat’s condition with the help of regular vet visits is also important. This will help avoid complications, such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and it will ensure your cat is getting the right treatment for his particular condition. Although there is no cure for this disease, some kitties who are diabetic might end up losing their need for insulin after a period of time, such as months or years, particularly if the disease is the result of being obese. If your cat’s weight is brought under control, his diabetes may improve quite a bit or even go into remission. When provided with the right veterinary care, home treatment, and diet, diabetic cats can be successfully managed and they could live for many years. Keeping your cat’s weight under control throughout his life and feeding him a diet that your vet recommends may help prevent the disease. But even if your cat develops diabetes, if you’re dedicated and you work closely with your vet, you can achieve positive results.

Studies Show Dry Food Linked to Feline Diabetes

Going on a diet may not be the answer for overweight cats. A new study out of Sweden found that normal-weight cats fed a diet of dry food had an increased risk of Type 2 Diabetes. We’ve always been told that a dry food diet is ideal for our pets. Remember all those commercials that claimed a hard, crunchy food helped clean teeth and promote better dental health. Always made perfect sense to me so I’ve always ensured my pets had a diet that was predominately quality dry food versus wet. Fast forward a couple decades and studies are now showing that dry food may not be the magic bullet to raising healthy pets. Researchers at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences discovered that normal-weight cats fed a diet of dry food had an increased risk of Type 2 Diabetes. Related: Ups and Downs – Understanding Feline Diabetes Hold the phone! I always thought it was about keeping my felines fighting fit versus overweight, not about feeding them dry food. Apparently I was only partially right! According to the lead researcher, Malin Öhlund of the university’s Department of Clinical Services, “Through our research we found that while obesity is a very important and prominent risk factor for Diabetes Mellitus in cats, there is also an increased risk of diabetes among normal-weight cats consuming a dry food diet.” The survey, called “Environmental Risk Factors for Diabetes Mellitus in Cats” is the largest case-control study about diabetic cats to date. It was conducted over a four month period and involved 2,066 cats (396 known to have diabetes and 1,670 control subjects). The online survey asked 48 questions that zeroed in on the pet’s age, breed, sex, whether they were spayed or neutered, body condition as well as queries surrounding the animal’s overall health, activity levels and eating habits. Related: How Much Should I Feed My Cat Researchers investigated both new and known risk factors and found that in addition to the increased threat for normal-weight cats on a dry food diet that not surprisingly, indoor confinement, inactivity, being a greedy eater and being overweight also factored into increased risk of diabetes in cats. While they are quick to point out that further studies are needed, the results have been published and will be made available under the name “Environmental Risk Factors for Diabetes Mellitus in Cats” in the January/February digital issue of the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

Senior’s Center Adopts Deceased Resident’s Pooch

When her elderly pet parent died, Izzy wasn’t sure where’d she go. But the Senior’s Center where the pair lived wanted to keep her on… as their new Furry Greeter! While she isn’t on a government payroll, this lovable senior has just settled into a job for life at the Brookdale Kingston assisted living community in Kingston, Tennessee. You see the 10-year-old canine named Izzy moved into Brookdale last fall with her senior pet parent, both expecting to live out their final days together. But sadly, fate prevailed and Izzy’s beloved owner passed away sooner than either expected. This loving and loyal companion was now alone. Related: Senior Canines Brings Love and Companionship to Senior Citizens However this heartbreaking story has a fairy-tale ending. During their short stay at Brookdale, Izzy had slowly endeared herself to management and residents alike, strolling the halls, visiting offices and essentially networking as only a pooch can do. When it was determined that her owner’s family simply couldn’t take in the now-orphaned dog, Izzy’s new family at Brookdale stepped up to the plate. Related: Abandoned Senior Pets Spend Their Golden Years at House With A Heart Lesa Fuller, Brookdale Kingston’s sales and marketing manager confirmed “We realized her home was here with us and so she has stayed. The residents always want to know where Izzy is and what she’s doing. There’s never a shortage of people to pet her.” Busy in her role as the “official welcome greeter” Izzy’s schedule is now chock-a-block with a litany of socials, parties and seasonal gatherings she is eagerly expected to attend. Resident family member Gail Abner Baldwin comments, “Even my Mom who does not like animals has said how well behaved she is. Welcome home Izzy, we know you will give unconditional love to our family members.”

Shocking “A Dog’s Purpose” Footage Filmed Last Summer – Why Ar

The movie “A Dog’s Purpose” is set to hit the big screens next week, but with secret footage leaked by TMZ showing an alleged example of animal abuse, animal rights activists are boycotting the film. (EDITOR’S NOTE: Because PetGuide.com doesn’t believe in profiting from animal abuse, dog in distress, we have not included the video.) It was painful to watch – leaked footage to TMZ from the actual set shows what looks what looks like a handler forcing a German Shepherd into water made to look like rapids by his handler. The dog fights to not be put into a pool that was made into churning rapids with the use of eight outboard motors. When his handler forces him in the water, the dog’s head is seen disappearing beneath the rapids before the production team tells “cut it”. Yes, that footage is hard to watch, but equally disturbing is that the footage was taken last summer, but only released now. Why the delay? TMZ most definitely purchased the footage from someone who was part of the movie set. Why wasn’t it passed along to animal welfare or law enforcement officers? Or, if the person in question didn’t trust these sources, why not consult a lawyer to protect yourself and get the footage to an organization who would have had the dog’s best interest at heart? And why release the footage now, one week before the film is released in theatres? Obviously, there are a lot of questions raised, and we wouldn’t be surprised if money played a critical role in this situation. If it turns out that the policies to protect animal actors were not followed, it brings us – as Canadians – great shame. The filming of this scene was done in Winnipeg, and in accordance with Screen Actor Guild rules, a American Humane Certified Animal Safety rep (or equivalent) was present for the film to use the “No Animals Were Harmed” certification. The AHA rep has since been suspended pending a third-party review of the incident, and we will continue to follow progress into the allegations. Animal Rights are calling for a boycott of the film and shelters that had been planning to screen the film as part of fundraisers are left to recover funds already invested in promoting the event. If you’d like to reach out to the Screen Actor Guild’s toll free safety hotline, you can call (844) Safer Set/(844) 723-3773. We’ll leave you on this note. Yes, it is our responsibility to ensure that animals are never harmed in the production of paid entertainment. It is also our responsibility to look at all of the players in this footage – not just the film’s director, the dog handler, and the video crew; but also unethical people who take advantage of loopholes in the system.

Peekapoo

Peekapoo Basics Whether he’s on your lap or chasing squirrels, the Peekapoo is a delightful designer dog that’s suitable for a wide range of households. Loyal and affectionate, this breed is attached to his family – so much so that he may be quite protective of you in certain circumstances. Naturally, due to their petite size, they don’t make good guard dogs- but their tendency to act like one will definitely amuse you to no end! As their name suggests, Peekapoo is a mixed breed dog whose parents are a purebred Pekingese and a purebred Toy or Miniature Poodle. Both his mom and dad have a lot of impressive traits, and their offspring will inherit a good portion of them- if not all. A wonderful companion to those who have mild allergies, the Peekapoo is a true “Doodle” dog, which means he has a low- to non-shedding coat that won’t set you off into sneezes. But that’s not the only reason why the Peekapoo makes a great pet. Low-maintenance when it comes to their activity and grooming needs, and with a friendly, sweet temperament, the Peekapoo has a lot to offer to many pet owners. Seniors and retirees, as well as singles, will find this designer dog a perfect companion, but families with older children might also enjoy the Peekapoo’s goofy antics and eagerness to please. Whether he’s on your lap or chasing squirrels, the Peekapoo is a delightful designer dog that’s suitable for a wide range of households. Origin Developed in the 1950s in the United States, the Peekapoo is one of the oldest designer dog breeds. In fact, these hybrids had their start even before the term designer dogs was coined in the first place- and their long history is just a testament to their many qualities. Bred to be a low-shedding, hypoallergenic companion dog, the Peekapoo gained popularity by the early 1960s and is still a popular breed today. Pedigree

How To Stop Stinky Dog Farts

Do you love your dog with every part of your body other than your nose? Don’t worry. There are solutions to that stinky problem. We’ve sniffed out some remedies that will eliminate stinky dog farts from your daily life. We’ve all been there. You’re hanging out with your pup and minding your own business. Then it happens. The dreaded Fido farts. Oh sure, it’s cute at first. When you’re dog’s a puppy those tiny toots yield plenty of laughs from the whole family. Eventually, that novelty wears off. Soon you’ll find yourself in a very different state of mind and muttering things to yourself like, “Urgh! What’s that smell? Did it just come out of the dog? Gross!” Everyone blames rotten smells on their dog to avoid taking responsibility during tricky fart scenarios. But what happens when you’ve got a legitimate problem with dog farts? It’s no laughing matter. Excessive doggy tooting can ruin your relationship with your pet if you don’t take action! Thankfully, the fight against canine flatulence isn’t hopeless. There are solutions out there that will cut down on all of the trumpet noises and stink clouds. In fact, there are several factors that can lead to stinky dog farts. Gas can build up when your dog swallows large amounts of air while gulping down his food. Certain types of food can also give your dog the toots. They tend to be the usual offenders that also make your own butt sing with bride. You know, beans, cauliflower, cabbage, and soybeans. These sorts of foods are all highly fermentable. Your dog’s thunderous blasts can come from food intolerance, such as sensitivities to wheat and corn. Most of the time, if your dog’s farting is clearing rooms, it’s because that’s a sign of what is going on inside his gut. That’s right. Good gut health is what leads to fart reduction in your dogs. Excessive (and stinky) gas is most often caused by too much fermentation in your dog’s digestive system. Fermentation happens when your dog breaks food down in his gut but if there’s excess bacteria, microorganisms or yeast in his microbiome, you’ll have excess fermentation and thus, excess gas. And you know that gas has gotta go somewhere. You just get to be the lucky recipient of all the nasties inside his gut coming out. That’s why those noxious farts are so noxious. A healthy dog gut will have a good balance of helpful bacteria (probiotics) and microorganisms in his gut and his butt won’t smell as much. Additionally, dog farts can also be caused because of malabsorption syndromes which are typically due to the incomplete digestion of carbohydrates. Finally, there are just some dogs out there who are more prone to farting. If you own a Boxer, you know what we’re talking about. They are champion level farters with posteriors so prestigious that it’s almost admirable.

Pitsky

Pitsky BasicsDo you want a unique-looking, energetic, and bold dog? Then the Pitsky just might be the right breed for you. This designer dog is a handsome and muscular cross between an American Pitbull Terrier and a Siberian or Alaskan Husky. They are perfect for people who love either of those popular breeds. They are an especially appealing option for husky-lovers who live in warm climates that aren’t ideal for purebred huskies. Owing to their parental breeds, Pitskies are spirited and smart, but also demanding dogs. They do best in high energy households and require lots of exercise.Ontop of all of that, both his mom and dad need an experienced owner, so their offspring is no different. With the wrong person by his side, a Pitsky can be stubborn, unmanageable, and even aggressive, so it’s important to train and socialize them in a timely manner. Pitskies might be wonderful designer dogs, but they are not a viable option for first time dog owners. They need experienced owners who can handle the occasionally tough responsibilities inherit in raising a Pitsky.As a mixed breed dog, the Pitsky will inherit traits from both of his parents, so there’s no way to predict how they’ll look once they grow up. Pitskies are unique in appearance, and no two of them look the same. Pitskies can be any color, have short or long hair, stand up or floppy ears, and even carry on the blue eyes common in huskies. One thing is certain, though: you’ll fall in love with these puppies as soon as you lay your eyes on one. Of course, even though they are undeniably cute and have a lovable temperament, the Pitskies are not a good match for every family. Read on to find out if this designer dog breed is the right choice for you! All the info that you’ll need is below. Simply keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away to discover if you’ll be bringing home a Pitsky anytime soon.The Pitsky is a handsome, muscular cross between an American Pitbull Terrier and a Siberian or Alaskan Husky.OriginThe origin of the Pitsky is unknown. Husky and pitbull mix dogs have been around for decades, but it’s not until recently that they became a product of intentional breeding. No breeder currently claims that they were the ones to start producing Pitskies first. However, it’s highly likely that the breed came to be during the peak of designer dogs craze. In the last 20 years, crossbreeds have been becoming more popular, so it’s probable that this is the timeframe in which someone decided to cross huskies to pitbulls in an effort to create a new designer dog breed. Unfortunately, there’s not really any other information about the origin of the Pitsky. Like most designer dogs, no one really bothered to document their history. All we can do is feel grateful that they exist.Pedigree

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