Stray Dog Caught Shoplifting Clothes In a Hilarious Security Cam Video

Drug That Could Extend Lifespan of Senior Dogs Enters Clinical Trial

A new and revolutionary drug that could possibly extend the lifespan of healthy, senior dogs, is now entering a major clinical trial. It also has a first patient - an 11-year-old Whippet named Boo. Going by the codename LOY-002, this drug is designed to provide a few more years to senior dogs of most sizes. It is the product of a startup biotech company called  Loyal and is the fruit of their hard work and arduous research. Celine Halioua, the founder and CEO of Loyal, said that the company is working hard to develop several products aimed at the longevity of dogs. One of their initial projects, the LOY-001, was a drug aimed to extend the lifespan of giant and large dog breeds. In November of 2023, this project received the support of the FDA, paving the way for the company's further successes. The underlying mechanisms of aging were the first focus of the company as it developed LOY-001. The drug works by reducing IGF-1, an insulin-like growth factor that is a key biomarker hormone that drives cell growth. It is believed that this reduced the lifespan of extra-large dogs. Similarly, the LOY-002 project aims to extend the lifespan of normal-sized dogs, by improving their metabolic health and thus delaying the onset and the impact of diseases that come with old age. “LOY-002 is a slightly different mechanism [than LOY-001] for senior lifespan extension. It’s a little bit more of a reversal mechanism. It’s not going to make a 10-year-old dog a puppy, but we’ve seen a rescuing in age-related functional decline in dogs that have been treated with this drug,” said Halioua in an interview with  dvm360.The newest study for LOY-002 is expected to last 4 years, and include one thousand enrolled dogs. “It will be one of the largest veterinary clinical studies that, as far as we know, has ever been run,” added Halioua.The first ever receiver of the drug, Boo, was enrolled into the program in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, at the Animal Hospital of Dauphin County. There, an associate veterinary and STAY study investigator, Coby Rudakewiz, became a part of the program for the first time, witnessing its incredible potential. “I’m genuinely excited to be able to share what we’ve seen as a life-changing product to dogs of all sizes,” he said.“This is what it’s all about - keeping dogs feeling their best to enjoy a long life with their owners who love them.”“The launch of this study brings us one step closer to helping senior dogs have more, healthier years with their families…The scale and complexity of STAY reflect Loyal’s commitment to creating demonstrably effective and safe products,” Halioua added. “This is a massive undertaking that wouldn’t be possible without the partnership of the many veterinarians and technicians operating the study in their clinics, and the participating dogs and owners helping advance therapies for all dogs.”For the time being, the company is working hard to receive conditional approval for its revolutionary drug. This would allow them to begin offering it through veterinarians as soon as 2025. This could mean a world of difference for many senior doggos and their families. Seeing your senior doggo enjoy a few extra years without the issues common to old age is nothing short of true happiness, and would mean that the company’s hard efforts were not in vain. Ultimately, this innovative drug gives us hope for the future and makes us wonder what other ground-breaking drugs could we see in the years ahead.

Watch As Adorable Shelter Dogs Pick Their Own Christmas Toys

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

Wildlife Center Wears Fox Masks When Caring for Orphaned Cubs

Bonding with an orphaned kitten or puppy is fine, not so much when you're caring for wildlife.

Never Scoop Again With Litter-Robot, The Purrfect Gift For Cat Lovers

Cats like a clean litter box just as much as cat owners do, but scooping clumps can be a hassle. Whisker’s Litter-Robot, the highest-rated, self-cleaning litter box for cats, eliminates the need to scoop the litter box. The newest model, Litter-Robot 4, provides a clean bed of litter for your cats after every use. It features patented sifting technology that sifts out waste after every use and deposits it into a tightly-sealed waste drawer, helping to keep odor under control. For Black Friday, you can scoop one up for less, with $75 off bundles with the Purrfect Litter-Robot accessories you will want.What Sets the Litter-Robot Apart? Litter-Robot 4 features an advanced, patented, sifting technology with QuietSift™ for nearly-silent sifting. That’s right, you don’t have to scoop and you don’t hear the litter being sifted. What could be better?

Sleeping With Pets: Here's What Experts Have to Say

Pet parents adore their four-legged companions so much that they choose to sleep with them at night. Research shows that more than half of pet owners sleep with their pets. Most pet owners consider their pets part of the family, so it is no surprise that they will go out of their way to ensure their furry companions’ comfort. However, with an increasing focus on our sleep health, pet parents are starting to wonder about the potential disadvantages of sleeping with pets. In fact, sharing a bed with a pet is the subject of controversy among pet parents.Various studies suggest that there are many benefits to sleeping with pets. And experts tend to agree. According to Audrey Wells, MD, a board-certified sleep medicine physician, a pet can provide an emotional connection and reduce anxiety and stress levels, therefore promoting sleep. “Some people may consider their pets an added layer of security, dependable to alert them to unexpected noises or lights.”Another benefit of sleeping with your pet is that they can keep you nice and warm during the night. People who get chilled easily might enjoy cuddling with a furry companion during frigid winter nights.“Pets are sensitive to routine, and they can help enforce a regular bedtime and better sleep quality for their owner,” explained Dr. Wells. “Similarly, pets can signal wake-up time in the morning and even prompt some time outside for a walk and daylight exposure.”If you enjoy sleeping with your pet and find it beneficial for your sleep, the science agrees with you. According to Amanda Farah, National Training and Behavioral Coordinator at Best Friends Animal Society, studies have found that some people sleep more soundly when their dog is sleeping next to them. “If you and your dog both sleep well together, you’ll enjoy the health benefits that come with a good night’s sleep, such as improved mental clarity, lower blood pressure, reduced stress, and a stronger immune system,” explained Farah.According to Teddy Cralle, Ms, RN, certified clinical sleep educator, some people sleep better when their pet is in the bed, but some don’t. If there’s a chance that you won't get a good night’s rest while sleeping with your pet you shouldn't sleep with them in the first place. For example, if you’re a light sleeper and your dog likes to change positions during the night, sleeping with your pooch may wake you more often, resulting in low-quality sleep. Also, some pups like to claim the entire bed for themselves, leading to a sleepless night and a backache. “Sacrificing your sleep means sacrificing your health, well-being, and quality of life - and that is not a sacrifice to make,” Cralle added.Sharing a bed with a pet may not be the best idea if you’re an asthma or allergy sufferer. Although some dog breeds shed less than others, no dog is truly hypoallergenic because it’s their dander and not hair that triggers an allergic reaction. Zoonotic diseases are another downside of sleeping with pets. Research has confirmed that sharing a bed with a pet can increase the exposure rate to pathogens that might be present. Although no one wants to think about it, pets can bring unwanted guests to your bed. Fleas and ticks are the most active during the warmer months, but the truth is they can infest your pet all year long. If the downsides of sleeping with your pet have made you reconsider your sleeping arrangement don’t fret - you can still have your pooch close by while you sleep. A crate or a cozy dog bed next to your bed will help everyone get a good night’s rest. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How To Tell if a Dog Is Cold

You might think your dog feels fine in cold weather, thanks to their thick coat, but they can definitely feel the chill—and when they aren’t warm and comfortable, they could develop serious problems like hypothermia. So, it’s important to know the signs that your dog is cold, and to take steps to keep your pet comfy, whether they’re indoors or outside.  Although any dog can be affected by cold temperatures, wind, and snow, some are going to feel the drop in temperature sooner or more intensely. Puppies and seniors, as well as small dogs and those with short coats, are a few examples, along with hairless dogs and those who are ill or have chronic medical conditions.Signs Your Dog Is ColdHere are some of the ways to tell if your dog is cold:Your dog feels cold to the touch – An easy way to tell if your dog is cold is by petting them and feeling the temperature of their body. A good place to check is their ears, but also touch their paws, belly, and skin under their fur. If their body is cool to the touch, there are ways to warm them up.Your dog doesn’t want to be active – If your dog isn’t as active as they usually are, they might be feeling the chill in the air. Feel their body, as discussed above, to see if they’re cold, and take steps to make them warm. A dog who’s moving more slowly than normal while outside should be brought inside right away. Your dog is shivering – Just like people shiver when they’re cold, dogs will too, so this is an obvious sign that your pet needs to be warmed up as soon as possible. If your dog is trembling, consider the temperature inside your home, as you might need to turn the heat up. And if your dog is shaking while outside in the cold, bring them inside right away.Your dog is searching for ways to stay warm – If your dog wants to lie down next to the fireplace or heater, or they want to snuggle up next to you or under a blanket, they’re looking for ways to get warm. In addition, your dog might be reluctant to go outside, whether for a walk or to go potty. If they’re outside and you see them trying to find some shelter to warm up, bring them in immediately.  Your dog’s body language and vocalizations change – If you know your pet’s normal behavior and demeanor, it should be easy to tell when they’re cold. There will be signs that they’re uncomfortable, and they might exhibit anxious behaviors that let you know something is wrong. For example, your dog may tuck their tail, have a hunched posture, or curl up in a ball, and they might also bark or whimper. What To Do if Your Dog Is ColdWhenever your dog is showing signs of feeling cold, take action right away. Remember, a dog who gets too cold is at risk of hypothermia. Also, the cold can make some dogs, such as those with arthritis, experience even more discomfort. If your dog is outside, bring them inside. And if they’re wet from rain or snow, dry them gently.If your dog is already inside, move them to a warmer area, such as near a heat source and away from drafts.Help your dog feel warm and cozy indoorsYou can rub and massage your dog to help generate some warmth with your hands. Give your pet a cozy bed to rest in, and cover them with a blanket. You can also lie down next to your dog to help them warm up.There are heated dog beds you can use whenever your dog is chilly, along with dog heating pads that can work well too—just be sure to use these products as directed for safety and so your pet won’t get too hot. Keep your dog warm while outsideBefore heading outside with your dog, check the temperature. Generally, if it’s colder than 45°F (7°C), you should take additional precautions to ensure your pet won’t get too cold. But you know your individual dog best, so you’ll know when they need extra protection and less time outside.There are various jackets, sweaters, and boots made for dogs of all breeds and sizes. Put these on your canine companion before heading outside so they can stay warm while they go potty or go for a short walk.If it’s too cold for a walk or play session outside, don’t force your dog to stay out there. Instead, find ways to play with your dog indoors until the weather warms enough to be safer and more comfortable for your pooch.Use products that help your dog warm up and stay warmHere are a couple of items to consider buying for your dog: K&H Self-Warming Crate Pad

Scientists May Have Found a Better Way To Trim a Cat’s Nails

Trimming a cat’s nails is often a daunting affair for everyone involved. Most cats should have their nails trimmed every two to three weeks. Failing to do so leaves you and your furniture at the mercy of your kitty’s sharp claws.Specially designed to be smaller, cat nail clippers or scissors are commonly used to trim a cat’s nails, but they can be difficult to handle, especially if your cat doesn’t want to cooperate or is anxious. Additionally, there’s always a risk that you’ll end up scratched, bitten, and bleeding.This is where science can come in handy! Researchers from the University of California, Davis, are working with Sacramento SPCA to make nail trimming less stressful for cats and their owners. Jennifer Link, a Ph.D. student at the University of California, Davis, Animal Welfare Epi Lab, is working on a multistep protocol designed to desensitize the cats to handling and nail clipping. In mid-July, Link started to visit the Sacramento shelter five days a week for two hours to work on socializing rescued and surrendered cats to help them adjust to new people, situations, and environments. By the end of September, she had worked with more than 70 cats. “When people hear that I study cats, many ask if I can help them with nail trims,” said Link. According to Dan Marple, the animal welfare manager at the Sacramento Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, this research is vital to staff, donors, and volunteers because it can reduce the stress caused by nail trimming.“Any new protocols that increase the comfort and safe handling of the cats in our care will also improve their overall well-being and adoptability,” he added. Link’s research is promising because it incorporates cooperative care. This means that cats are allowed to decide how much they want to interact with the handler during the training process. Depending on their willingness to participate, the cats go through one of three scenarios with Link: a handling-only training protocol, a handling and nail-trimming protocol, or a control with no training and only a nail trim. Each interaction is recorded to be analyzed later. On the days when Link visits the shelter, the cats are removed from their cages and brought to a quiet room where Link is waiting, with a mat laid out before her. If a cat puts their front paws on the mat, they are given treats and cuddles. The idea is for cats to learn that Link interacts with them only when they put their paws on the mat. Once the cat leans this, Link proceeds with training protocols. Slowly, Link touches the cat’s legs, then the paws, and then the paws are gently squeezed. If the cat doesn’t resist, one nail is trimmed. The protocol builds on past steps and works up. When a cat goes through all the steps, they get a nail trim. If a cat doesn’t place their paws on the mat or rejects any step, Link stops the handling.“I think with cooperative care, it does seem to almost improve their trust in me,” Link explained. “They are more comfortable if we let them decide.”This research could make nail trimming at home much more comfortable for the cats and their owners. It can also decrease the number of visits to veterinary hospitals and clinics, where owners often seek help trimming their cats’ nails. The researchers still need to analyze the video sessions to finalize the protocol. And if the protocol is deemed helpful, they will share it with other shelters for more data.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Media Maven Martha Stewart Gets Push Back Over Dog Food Recipe

Use of "home-grown" meat draws ire from followers and falls on the heels of last year's negative press.

Camping Available at Best Friend's Animal Sanctuary

Are you searching for a pet-friendly camping solution for the upcoming travel season? If so, you’re in luck! Located in Kanab, Utah, the Best Friends Sanctuary offers a beautiful getaway for animal lovers.The location offers hiking trails, children’s activities, the Sanctuary store, the Angel Village café, and, of course, the animal sanctuary. Whether you plan on staying for a night or more, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy your trip while making a difference for the most vulnerable.Located on 3,700 acres, it is home to up to 1,600 animals on any given day. The animals in their care include cats, dogs, birds, bunnies, horses, pigs, and others.There are 18 RV sites with 30—and 50-amp power, septic, and water hookups. Free Wi-Fi is also available to visitors. While the sites can accommodate larger RVs and trailers, any over 21 feet may have difficulty navigating the roads within the sanctuary, and it is recommended that these guests have a separate vehicle to get around during their stay.If you don’t have an RV, cottages and cabins are also available on-site. The most significant differences between these two options are the guest capacity and location. Cottages can accommodate groups of up to six, while cabins are designed for only one or two people. Unlike the cabins, which share a group patio area, each cottage has its own dedicated patio or deck.Visitors can reserve a tour of the sanctuary to see the beautiful views and the incredible work the organization is doing or sign up to volunteer. It’s the perfect opportunity for those who want to give back, dedicating a small portion of your vacation to helping around the sanctuary and leaving you with the good feeling of knowing you made a difference.You can schedule a volunteer shift up to a year in advance with tasks including:Walking the animalsPreparing and serving foodQuality time playing with or petting the animalsCleaning (dishes, mopping, etc.)Making toys or treatsGeneral maintenance and upkeep on the groundsThe minimum age for volunteering depends on the task, with the Bunny House and Parrot Garden accepting volunteers as young as eight.If camping isn’t your travel style, no problem. Five minutes down the road, you will find the Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile, a boutique pet-centric hotel. The location offers 40 rooms and suites, a complimentary vegan continental breakfast, an on-site pet grooming facility, and a dog park complete with a seasonal splash pad.With an allowed maximum of four pets per room and no pet fee, the hotel takes “pet-friendly” to a whole new level!Are you traveling without your pet and need to get your “fix” of cuddles and playtime? You can also host a sleepover with a dog or cat from the sanctuary at the hotel. Simply contact the hotel in advance to arrange for a furry sleepover guest.Of course, if you fall in love with an adoptable animal during your stay, you can always apply to add that furry (or feathered) friend to your family before leaving.Make your reservation to stay at the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary on their website today!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Common Garden Plants That Can Send Your Dog into Cardiac Arrest

Spring is finally upon us! For dog owners, spring is always a welcoming sight as it signals the start of longer walks in the park and more time in the garden. The backyard is usually a fun place for you and your pooch to play and run around. However, certain types of plants are dangerous to dogs and can make your backyard a safety hazard. Experts advise that some spring plants and flowers, both indoors and outdoors, can be harmful to your pooch and should be avoided at all costs. Some of these plants are known to cause upset stomachs, itching, vomiting, and, in severe cases, even cardiac arrest in dogs. Craig Wilson, co-founder, director, and gardening expert at Gardeners Dream, has listed the toxic flowers and plants you should keep from the home and garden if you have a dog. DaffodilsDid you know that daffodils, one of the most popular heralds of spring, are poisonous to both cats and dogs? These trumpet-shaped flowers contain a toxic compound called lycorine which causes stomach pain and diarrhea when ingested. Bulbs are the most toxic part of the daffodil plant, but dogs can also get sick after consuming the flowers. Even drinking the water from a vase that contains daffodils can cause toxicity in dogs.Tulips All parts of the tulip plant - bulbs, stems, leaves, and flowers - are toxic to both cats and dogs. The bulb stores the highest concentration of toxins, making it the most toxic part of the plant. Most dogs will experience drooling, diarrhea, and vomiting after consuming tulips. In severe cases, dogs can experience heart problems and difficulty breathing.IrisesColorful and hardy irises are a popular flower in many household gardens. Unfortunately, irises are toxic to dogs and can make your pooch sick if ingested or touched. Irises contain irisin, a toxic compound that triggers tissue irritation when swallowed or touched. The bulbs and rhizomes hold the highest concentration of irisin, making this plant particularly hazardous to dogs who like to dig.Hyacinths Many people like planting hyacinths in their gardens, but these tall and vibrant plants are harmful to dogs. Hyacinths belong to the same family as tulips and contain calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals are present in all areas of the plant and are shaped like needles. When ingested, these crystals can pierce a dog’s soft tissues, causing severe pain.Symptoms of hyacinth poisoning also include diarrhea, vomiting, abnormal breathing, increased heart rate, and convulsions. If you suspect your pooch has ingested any part of the hyacinth plant, take them to the vet as soon as possible. BluebellsAll parts of the bluebell plant contain a toxic compound called glycosides. Not only are bluebells harmful to cats and dogs, but this plant is also toxic to horses and cattle. If any part of the bluebell plant is consumed, it can cause stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. When eaten in large quantities, bluebells can be fatal.Hydrangeas Many gardeners love the look of hydrangeas in the spring and fall, but dog owners beware - hydrangeas are toxic to dogs. Dogs can become poisoned from eating any part of the hydrangea plant, as they all contain cyanogenic glycoside.Chewing plants with this toxic compound releases cyanide and can result in loss of appetite, vomiting, depression, and increased heart rate. Munching on the flowers, buds, leaves, or bark of the hydrangea plant can make dogs sick, so keep a close eye on your pooch whenever they are sniffing around a hydrangea plant.These are just some of the most common plants that can make your dog sick, but there are more! If your pooch likes to munch on plants, it’s best not to leave them unsupervised in the garden.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

This Special Camera Reveals How Our Pets See the World Around Them

Have you ever wondered how your pet  sees the world around them? We all know that the eyes of dogs, cats, and all other animals are not the same as ours, and they often see the world in a very different way. While all we could do is imagine and theorize up until now, thanks to a new breakthrough in technology we will be able to take a peek through the eyes of animals!Scientists have  invented a special camera that uses a unique combination of state-of-the-art hardware and software, in order to create videos and images that show us exactly how certain animals see. For example, with this latest tech, you will be able to see the vivid world of colors that are seen through the eyes of birds and bees. One of the recent demonstrations revealed how a UV-sensitive vision of a bird renders an orange sulfur butterfly - the result is more than striking, as it doesn’t look like anything related to human vision.

What Shapes Your Dog’s Personality? Harvard Neuroscientists Reveal

No two dogs are the same – each pooch has a personality of their own, complete with unique quirks and traits. But why is your dog the way they are? What shapes their personality and character? Why do they behave in a unique way, even when they belong to a certain breed with a distinct set of traits?This is the question that Erin Hecht, assistant professor of human evolutionary biology at Harvard, is trying to answer. She is doing this through  The Canine Brains Project and recently held a  talk - centered on canine neuroscience - that was organized by Harvard’s Brain Science Initiative.According to Hecht, dogs have the potential to teach us so much about brain development, especially considering the fact that they were domesticated about 20,000 to 40,000 years before the present – which, on the evolutionary timeline, is quite recent. “Darwin saw dogs as a window on mechanisms of evolution,” Hecht said. “When we’re looking at dogs, as a natural experiment and brain behavior evolution all we have to do is look at their brains and see what evolution did in order to satisfy those selection requirements.”Hecht’s efforts were benefited by her lab, which performs MRI scans of dog brains – roughly 100 per year. They also conduct owner surveys that examine dogs’ work skills, especially those “ancient” ones, like hunting, guarding, herding, fetching, and so on. All this is then compared to breed parameters, like body size, skill size, and overall shape. “About 80 percent of the dogs living on the planet today are what’s known as village dogs. These are free-ranging animals that live as human commensals. So they’re living within human society, but they’re not pets,” Hecht said.Through such research, Hecht is hoping to determine what exactly shapes a dog’s personality. Through her lab work, she connects personality and skill differences in dogs to six special regions of their brains:-the regions controlling drive and reward -olfaction and taste-spatial navigation-social communication and coordination-fight or flight -and olfaction and vision“There has been very strong recent specific selection in individual breeds rather than founding effects in ancestral founding populations,” Hecht said. “So then we can look at behavior and ask whether the types of behaviors that different lineages have been selected for historically … [explain] each dog’s anatomy and these six brain networks. And it seems like there are some interesting relationships here.”But most importantly, it is concluded that these neural pathways are greatly impacted by the shape and size of a dog’s skull. “It stands to reason that if you’re manipulating the shape of a skull, you’re going to be manipulating the shape of the brain,” Hecht said. “But this confirms that dogs with these extreme skull morphotypes have impacts on their brain anatomy that likely affects behavior.”She also adds that even though some dogs have a brain “makeup” that suggests a unique disposition, it doesn’t “lock” them into a set behavior pattern. This is especially true for working skills. “Training is almost always necessary. I have yet to hear of any particular breed of working dog, where it’s just born knowing how to do its job,” Hecht said.So, a look “inside” your doggo’s brain might reveal why they are just the way they are. Would you be curious enough to let scientists take a peek?

Is Dog Snoring Normal?

Does it sound like your pet’s sawing wood whenever they take a nap? We hear you. It just so happens that dogs can snore like humans do, and some do it quite often and quite loudly. But what causes snoring in dogs, and is it normal? And is there a way to limit, reduce, or altogether eliminate it? Here are all the deets on dog snoring you need to know.Is Dog Snoring Normal?First off, yes, dog snoring can be completely normal. Just like humans, dogs can snore for various reasons. In most cases, it is not something you should worry about. Still, it can be somewhat distracting, and you might want to know what causes it. A number of factors can contribute to this issue – here are the most common ones.Brachycephalic Breeds:Dogs with short noses and flat faces, known as brachycephalic breeds, are more prone to snoring. This conformation can lead to narrower air passages, making it harder for air to flow smoothly during breathing. Examples of brachycephalic breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, and Shih Tzus.Weight:Overweight, chubby dogs may snore more frequently because excess weight can put pressure on their airways. Combined with excess fat on their neck, and the sleeping position, their snoring can be quite loud, especially during sleep. Age:Believe it or not, age can cause snoring as well! Older dogs may snore more frequently and loudly as they age, just like some humans. Age can affect the muscles and tissues in a dog's throat. Older dogs may experience a relaxation of these tissues, contributing to snoring. Don't hold it against your senior furry friend, they can't help it!Sleeping Environment:Ultimately, the environment in which a dog sleeps can influence snoring. For example, if the room is too dry, it may irritate the nasal passages, or if it's too warm, dogs may breathe with their mouths open, contributing to snoring. Try to find an ideal environment for them, or consider using an air humidifier to moisturize dry air.

FDA Approves New Treatment for Anxiety and Fear in Cats

It’s no secret that most cats get really stressed out when they have to leave the house, especially for a trip to the veterinarian. And the anxiety and fear that your pet experiences can certainly affect you as a pet parent as well, making you feel awful about having to put your cat through such a scary experience.The good news is there are things you can try to help reduce the stress your kitty feels, and one of the latest solutions is a new treatment recently approved by the FDA.Bonqat for CatsIn November 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved pregabalin, also known as Bonqat, for cats.The oral solution is not a sedative; instead, it affects the neurotransmitters that are involved in acute anxiety and fear. Therefore, it can be used to reduce the stress experienced by cats who are being transported for any reason, and it can be helpful for those who get frightened when they go to the vet.To determine if this medicine would be effective, cats were given either a placebo or Bonqat before being transported by car and examined by a veterinarian (the cats had a history of being fearful and/or anxious under those circumstances). The results? While roughly one-third of the kitties who got the placebo had a positive response, just over half of those given the medicine did better while being transported and examined. Also, over the course of two examinations, 77% of the kitties who took Bonqat had less fear and anxiety, while 46% of those given the placebo exhibited an improvement in their fear and anxiety levels.Discuss Bonqat with Your VeterinarianYou can only get Bonqat with a prescription from your veterinarian, so discuss its pros and cons to determine if this medicine would be right for your cat based on factors like age and medical conditions. And bear in mind that side effects, such as ataxia, vomiting, and lethargy, might occur with Bonqat.To reap the benefits of Bonqat, you simply give it to your cat about 1.5 hours prior to transporting them or taking them to the vet. This medicine is a liquid, and it can be given to your pet with a bit of food.Also, there are some precautions that need to be taken while administering this medicine to your cat. For example, it shouldn’t make contact with your eyes, mucous membranes, or skin. So, in addition to talking to your vet about how to use it correctly to ensure your cat gets the best results, you also want to be well-informed about how to handle this medicine safely.For more information about Bonqat and how it works, click here.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

This Farm Offers Cuddle Sessions With A Pack Of Adorable Goldens

For decades,  Golden Retrievers have been one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States – heck, in the world. It’s no secret that Goldens are simply everyone’s favorite! Cute, goofy, and cuddly, these dogs are such a wonder and so much fun to be around. And now, thanks to Golden Dog Farm from Jeffersonville, Vermont, the fans of this famed breed can enjoy a very special experience centered around these adorable furballs.This family-run farm launched a special Golden Retriever Experience – a one-hour session allows guests to enjoy refreshments such as cider and snacks, all in the company of a huge group of cuddly golden retrievers called “happy”. The session is usually called the “happy hour” just because of this, and allows anyone to immerse themselves in the company of “at least '' 10 dogs Umm, sign me up for any activity that includes dogs, especially ten of ‘em! The Golden Dog Farm is run by Doug and Becca Worple and in an interview with  USA TODAY, the couple happily exclaimed that the bookings for the experience sold out incredibly quickly. It was certainly not what they expected earlier this year when they came up with the idea and started it all. Not at all surprisingly, it was COVID that caused the idea to come to fruition. During the height of the virus rampage, Doug Worple’s job, based at a travel-oriented global digital advertising agency, suddenly experienced a major hiccup. Trying to get a bearing at this trying time, Doug said he “used the moment to take a step back and consider what was next.” And, together with his partner Becca Worple – herself a photographer and a media representative at a radio station – Doug decided it was best to sell their home in Cincinnati, Ohio, in hopes of moving to a family cottage in Ontario. It was a time of big changes."Then the border closed," Doug Worple said. "Now we're two weeks out of closing on our house and didn't know where to go, so we decided to buy an RV and traveled to 35 different states, 17,000 miles in the RV with two of the dogs."And during this incredible and life-changing adventure, the couple decided to start a golden retriever-based business, and to finally settle in beautiful Vermont. "We've just always loved goldens and always wanted to have a lot of goldens," Worple said. "With what I was doing, I saw the power of influencers and social media and all that and I joked we need to have an Instagram farm full of golden retrievers, and soon we started looking at what that might look like."And once they arrived at Jeffersonville, Vermont, a sign they were looking for appeared – and they were left speechless. While driving through town, they suddenly spotted a truck full of golden retrievers, driven by Dana Menne of Butternut Goldens. It was a match made in heaven. "(Becca told me), 'If God were to send to me a sign we needed to move someplace, it would be a truckload of goldens,'" Doug Worple said.In no time, their idea about a golden retriever “happy hour” began to take some serious shape. And especially thanks to the Butternut Goldens.  "Collectively both of us wanted to do something like this but they didn't have a place to do it and we didn't have enough goldens," Doug Worple said. "But together we could make it happen."At the moment, their “happy hours” are sold out until Dec. 17, but the Worples have plans to extend the dates to April, giving everyone a chance to enjoy this experience. The one-hour experience runs on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and costs $75 for adults and $50 for children."People are so happy when they're here, they have this childlike joy on their faces," Worple said. "People cry because they're so happy."What about you? Would you enjoy an hour cuddling with golden retrievers?

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

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

Florida Courts Ready to Add Some Teeth to Their Animal Abuse Cases

The Court-Appointed Animal Advocate may be a thing in 2024.

Can I Teach A Cat Tricks?

Cats are often stereotyped as being aloof and independent. But beneath that mysterious exterior lies an intelligent and curious being capable of great things – you just have to learn how to tap into it! Whether you’re interested in trick training your cat as a form of mental enrichment or strengthening your bond and creating lasting memories, we have you covered. In this blog post, we will explore the world of cat trick training. This includes debunking common myths, breaking down the process of training a cat, and sharing a list of fun tricks to help you get started. Is it Possible to Train a Cat? Yes! Your cat is just as capable of learning how to perform tricks as your dog. However, there are some differences in how you approach this process. Dogs are often motivated by their bond with their handler and the praise they will receive for performing as expected. This is far less likely to work for your cat. Instead, you will need to find the right inspiration. For many, this comes in the form of high-value treats like diced chicken, sardines, or low-sodium tuna. The smellier the treat, the better. With the right motivator and a lot of patience, your cat can learn a wide variety of fun tricks and useful skills. How Long Does It Take to Teach a Cat a Trick? The time required for a cat to learn a trick will depend on many factors, including the difficulty of the trick, the cat’s eagerness to learn, and the way you approach the training session. We have two cats in our house, and they fall at very different ends of the spectrum. Pippen is highly trainable and quickly picks up tricks, while Jinx is much more stubborn and takes longer to come around. Several of these factors can be influenced by you directly. Have you found the right motivator for your cat? Are you experimenting with different training approaches to find the one that works best? Are you trying to move through the training process too quickly? However, some factors are beyond your control. If your cat is uninterested in training, even your best efforts to motivate them may fall short. Is it Too Late to Teach My Cat Tricks? There is an old myth that states: “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” This has been proven to be false by many trainers, with dogs even in their senior years. But what about cats? Is there an expiry date on when your cat can be taught to perform tricks? The best time to start training a cat is when they are young, but that doesn’t mean it’s the only time! Your older cat may be slower to learn or a little more reluctant to get started, but with a little patience and the right motivation, you can train cats of all ages.

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