The National Canine Cancer Foundation: Dedicated To Finding A Cure

by Mary Simpson

Published: May 4th, 2015

the national canine cancer foundation dedicated to finding a cure

May is National Pet Cancer Awareness Month – that’s why we’re highlighting the National Canine Cancer Foundation and how you can help them fight this disease.

“It’s Cancer.” I don’t think there are any two words in the English language that strike the same type of sick fear in a pet owner than this pronouncement by their vet. Having lost two of my felines to breast cancer, I understand the desperate and expensive surgeries, the discussions that include time and quality of life – the hope, the dread, the indescribable sadness.

Okay, enough of that. As Taylor Swift would say… “Shake it off!” Let’s get past our grief, let’s learn more about what causes the disease, and let’s pledge that in the name of those we have loved and lost, we will tackle pet cancers head on. And let’s never, ever, ever… mention that I quoted Taylor Swift!

Where to begin? Well, your little guy wasn’t alone when he got sick. Apparently canine cancer affects one out of every three dogs and of those, more than half will lose their fight. Those are some pretty frightening statistics.

They are also unacceptable stats and the National Canine Cancer Foundation (NCCF) is asking for your help to fund important research grants that are working to improve the odds. One example of a giant leap forward is that through a major project funded by the National Institute of Health, the mapping of the gene sequence in dogs has been completed. This data gives researchers an advantage not yet achieved in humans. So progress is happening, we are getting closer to a cure and the time to act is now!

How, you ask? The NCCF was inspired by so many pet parents who wanted to do something in the name of their pet that they created a new and special space on their site called “Friends”. It’s a personal page for your dog and includes his story and pictures. But its more than just a photo album, it’s a chance for him to do good for others. You see, it also functions as a personal fundraising page where you can accept donations for cancer research made in his name. You share the link with friends and family to allow them to acknowledge your best buddy in a way that is meaningful to both of you. Not just financially, but with messages of hope and encouragement that will help you through this time. One pet parent said “it is a great feeling for me when I see people donating to the NCCF because of my dogs. It makes me feel like they are still here with me and it’s a powerful way to keep them in our life.”

The Friends page can also be used by businesses and dog related organizations and clubs as a way to get employees and volunteers involved with a charity and to show clients where priorities lay.

Interested in exploring this new site, learning more about what the NCCF is doing and how you can help? Visit the National Canine Cancer Foundation website and share your pet’s life story.

While too late for my Mickey and Lucy, research will one day mean other pet parents don’t have to suffer a loss due to cancer. In a month dedicated to Pet Cancer Awareness, what better time to get involved?

Mary Simpson is a writer and communications professional from Port Credit, Ontario. A soft touch for anything stray, she shares her century home with an eclectic collection of rescues that include orange tabby Chico, tuxedo Simon, and jet black Owen. She enjoys running, politics, exploring the wine regions of Niagara and is an avid supporter of the “shop local” movement.

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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Roadie App Helps Canine Cancer Patients Get to Vet Appointments

Roadie, the first On-The-Way Delivery Network, has partnered with the National Canine Cancer Foundation to provide pet parents relief when their pup has cancer. You may have heard of Roadie, the super cool on-the-way delivery network that is totally changing the way deliveries are made, and communities are coming together. Now, Roadie has partnered with the National Canine Cancer Foundation (NCCF) to help bring relief to pups with cancer, and to their parents who tirelessly fight to cure them. A diagnosis of canine cancer devastates a family as they look not only to fund treatment, but to transport their furbaby back and forth from appointments. Roadie wants to help ease the burden on those families and is offering reduced pet transportation prices to those part of the NCCF. Roadie operates in a unique way–connecting people who have stuff (or now pets!) to send with drivers who just so happen to be going in the right direction! Roadie utilizes the more than one billion square feet of extra space passenger vehicles on the road have, and now will use this extra space to help safely transport pets to appointments and such in an affordable manner. Related: Revolutionary New Blood Test Helps Diagnose Canine Cancer Often times, canine cancer treatment centers are many miles away and pet parents struggle to get the best care for their furry family member simply because of the logistics of transportation. Roadie not only eases that burden, but they’ve also pledged to donate a portion of their proceeds from each pet gig (travel arrangement) worldwide to the NCCF in an effort to help support and raise awareness for canine cancer. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in many dog breeds, and the NCCF works tirelessly for canine research. Roadie CEO and founder Marc Gorlin knows that pet owners want to do all they can when their pooch has cancer, but often it’s expensive and difficult. As Roadie was founded on the southern hospitality mentality where neighbors help neighbors, it’s obvious that four-legged friends, especially in need, cannot be left out. Related: The National Canine Cancer Foundation: Dedicated To Finding A Cure If you’re a pet owner who needs to use Roadie, you can visit their website or download their app, and remember that only verified drivers can offer to drive pets–so you know they’re in good hands. Pet owners can keep in touch with their drivers the entire time.

What You Need To Know About Lymphoma In Dogs

The most common form of canine cancer, pet parents need to know about lymphoma in dogs, the treatment options available and the survival rate of this disease. It’s one of the fast rising cancers in young people in North America today, but did you know that it actually leads the pack in the dog world when it comes to malignancies? It’s lymphoma and for humans and canines alike it requires early diagnosis and aggressive treatment to win the battle. What Causes Lymphoma? As with human cancers, there is no definitive answer. Researchers know it occurs more often in middle aged to older dogs and in breeds such as Boxers, Bull Mastiffs, Basset Hounds, Saint Bernard’s, Scottish Terriers, Airedales and Bull dogs. But research is also looking at environmental triggers. A recent study of diagnosed dogs showed increased cases where owners had sprayed herbicides on their lawns, lived in industrial areas or in households where chemicals like paints and solvents were used frequently. Weak immune systems seem to be another factor. Related: The National Canine Cancer Foundation: Dedicated To Finding A Cure What is Lymphoma? Lymphoma is the name applied to a group of blood cell tumors that develop from lymphatic cells. In dogs, there are five types, with multi-centric being the most common. This form of lymphoma affects the external lymph nodes and in most instances will invade the organs over time. Alimentary lymphoma accounts for about 10 percent of canine lymphomas. It occurs in the gastrointestinal tract of dogs and can become fatal if the tumor is situated near the small or large intestine, restricting the bowel. Symptoms and Diagnosis: Multi-centric is characterized by painless swelling of the lymph nodes including the spleen and liver. While some pooches won’t show any signs of illness the symptoms can present dramatically and pet parents need to be on alert for weight loss, breathing difficulty, abnormal thirst, excessive urination, fever, anemia or even hemorrhaging or sepsis. Related: Revolutionary New Blood Test Helps Diagnose Canine Cancer With alimentary lymphoma the actual diagnosis is more difficult, but symptoms that include vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, excess passing of urine and lethargy should raise sufficient red flags to get your boy into the vet. For most dogs suspected of having lymphoma a thorough physical exam should entail a complete blood count and urinalysis. The final diagnosis can be made through fine needle aspirates of affected lymph nodes or other tissues and use of ultra sound during this procedure can also help evaluate whether the liver, spleen, or abdominal lymph nodes are involved. Treatment and Prognosis: Treatment is determined by the stage of the disease and chemotherapy continues to be the treatment of choice for most patients. For dogs with multi-centric lymphoma, surgery can be carried out if the disease is in its initial phase and careful mapping of the impacted organs supports this course of treatment. Radiation therapy given to patients either after the completion of chemotherapy or during ongoing sessions has also been found to be safe and effective. For pooches with alimentary lymphoma, if local it can be treated effectively with surgical resection combined with chemotherapy. The involvement of local lymph nodes and liver is very common in this case. While many dogs achieve complete remission with chemotherapy, the duration of the remission is temporary and typically lasts six to 20 months, depending on the type and stage of the illness. A second remission is more difficult to achieve and less than 50 percent of dogs undergoing chemo for a second time, will make it into another remission. The sad truth is that less than half the dogs treated for lymphoma will survive a year, and less than 20 percent will survive two. One more reason to hug your dog today!

New Antibody Gives Fresh Hope For Dog Cancer Treatment

Scientists have developed a new cancer antibody that could go a long way towards helping dogs with malignant cancers. Chimeric anti-PD-L 1 is a new antibody that has recently been developed to help treat dogs with malignant cancer. The number of dogs suffering from cancer is rising. This is mainly due to the fact that dogs are now living longer due to improvements in veterinary care. The older the dog, the more prone they are to cancer, and so cancer is a now a more common problem in dogs than it once was. A malignant cancer, such as oral malignant cancer is a cancer that cannot be treated. Animals with malignant cancer don’t respond to chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgical treatments. However, this new antibody, developed by Japanese scientists, could help to induce immune responses and so help to fight cancerous tumor growth in dogs. Related: The National Canine Cancer Foundation: Dedicated To Finding A Cure The antibody was created by taking a rat antibody and substituting part of it with that of a dog. This helps the dog’s body to accept the antibody and reduces the risks of them having an allergic reaction to it. Testing of this new anti-body is still in the early stages, but so far, the results are looking positive. In an initial study, nine dogs with malignant cancer were treated with the antibody every two weeks for a period of ten weeks. None of the dogs suffered any sort of allergic reaction to the antibody and two of the dogs showed significant tumor regression. Related: Study: Canine Cancers Linked To Common Lawn Chemicals Researchers are also hoping that due to the similarity between dogs and humans, this type of treatment could also be of benefit to human cancer patients in the future. [Source: Science Daily]

Pet Owners Turn To Medical Marijuana To Treat Their Pets

More American states are legalizing medicinal marijuana, and more pet owners are now treating their pets with cannabis-based medicines as a source of relief from symptoms. Medical marijuana is legal in 28 states, though still illegal under United States federal law. As more humans turn to marijuana based treatments for their own conditions, some are finding that their pets are also experiencing relief when treated as well. Pet owners are using cannabis-based extracts, ointments and treats for issues that range from anxiety and arthritis to cancer. Related: The National Canine Cancer Foundation: Dedicated To Finding A Cure Because it the use of cannabis based products is illegal under federal law, there has been little research done with regard to its potential for help in humans or animals. Because of this veterinarians say there isn’t enough science to prove that cannabis is safe, or even effective in the treatment of animals, and they cannot recommend, nor prescribe it as a treatment. Ken Pawlowski is the president of the California Veterinary Medical Association and says that vets hands are tied when it comes to the questions and requests they get from clients asking about it for their pets. They just don’t have the answers for them. Even veterinarians in California, like Dr. Karl Jandrey, who also teaches at the University of California, says that he advises clients who insist on using cannabis-treatments to do so knowing there is risk and possible expense involved. Though marijuana is legal for both medical and recreational use in California, veterinarians are legally restricted from prescribing or even recommending cannabis, and could lose their licenses if they did. Yet, even with little science backing the efficacy of cannabis treatments in pets, many owners are still using them on their own, and thankful for the options. Most of the products they use, though not regulated, have cannabidiol, or CBD, which is found in cannabis but doesn’t get pets or humans ‘high.’ Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the compound in cannabis that is known for its psychoactive effects, and there is little to none in these products. Related: Canine Cannabis: Medical Marijuana for Dogs There’s been such ‘success’ among pet owners in the usage that now companies are producing and marketing cannabis products specifically for pets, even though the actual legality of the products is questionable. One such company is TreatWell Health, which is based out of San Francisco. TreatWell sells cannabis tinctures that can be added to a pet’s food or put directly in his mouth. Alison Ettel is the co-founder of TreatWell and she says that a lot of clients are coming to her when there are no other options, particularly when prescribed medications simply don’t work. Ettel says that TreatWell tinctures can help treat things like anxiety, pain, seizures, kidney and liver problems and even cancer and glaucoma. They are also part of end-of-life care routines to make the pets comfortable. What clients say is that the treatments bring their pet’s back to their old selves. TreatWell client Barbara Stein said that when no traditional medicines worked for her aging cats, the cannabis did.

Petco Foundation and Blue Buffalo Foundation Announce $2.35M in Pet Ca

A lot of lifesaving, innovative research can be had with $2.35 million! Thanks to Petco Foundation and Blue Buffalo, this funding in 2016 will support research and treatment initiatives at top U.S. universities. That’s a huge chunk of change – and it’s all going to fight cancer in pets! Supporting pet cancer research and treatment initiatives, Petco Foundation and Blue Buffalo Foundation’s generous donation of $2.35 million brings the total amount invested to $9 million since the pet cancer initiative partnership began in 2010. “With cancer being the number one disease-related cause of pet death, this is an issue which truly hits home for a number of pet families,” said Susanne Kogut, executive director of the Petco Foundation. “This year, we are particularly encouraged by the inspiring work that our grant recipients are doing at universities, research centers and foundations across the country to help support pets and families impacted by this disease.” Related: The National Canine Cancer Foundation: Dedicated To Finding A Cure This year, $1.75 million of funding will go towards pet cancer research efforts underway at the Morris Animal Foundation, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine and the Animal Cancer Foundation. As if that news wasn’t good enough, $1.05 million is being invested as part of a multi-year university partnership to support pet cancer treatment initiatives. This means that owners who wouldn’t have been able to pay for their pet’s cancer treatment can now receive subsidized support through the establishment of a “Petco Foundation & Blue Buffalo Foundation Cancer Treatment Support Fund.” The universities and foundations involved in this initiative include: Cornell University College of Veterinary MedicineThe Ohio State University College of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of Tennessee College of Veterinary MedicineNC State College of Veterinary MedicineColorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical SciencesUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary MedicineOther recipients including Riedel and Cody Fund, Magic Bullet Fund, FACE Foundation, and Pet Partners This funding goes beyond pets – some of the research initiatives will provide broader context for the way we approach cancer treatments in human patients. Related: New Canine Cancer Research Findings Could Benefit People “The Penn Vet Shelter Canine Mammary Tumor program helps save homeless dogs with mammary tumors while at the same time advancing research on mammary tumors and breast cancer to benefit both dogs and women with this disease,” said Dr. Karin Sorenmo, Professor, Oncology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. “Mammary tumors in dogs and breast cancer in women represent a major cause of illness and premature death in those affected throughout the world. Only through research can we change this, and this generous investment from the Petco Foundation and Blue Buffalo Foundation will help further our efforts to the benefit of families impacted by cancer.”

These Are The 10 Most Common Male and Female Dog Names, Survey Reveals

Naming a new puppy that’s come into the world or thinking of a name to symbolize a new beginning for a rescue dog is a precious moment – but sometimes you need a bit of inspiration to think of a fitting name for your fur baby. Some people prefer names with personal meaning or symbolism, but most just sift through name lists in hopes of finding one that fits our pooch and sounds nice. Well, this list can help you find the most popular names for dogs these days and see if any of them stick!  Sniffspot, the so-called “AirBnB of dog parks”, went through their massive database of 100,000 dog names and through hard work determined the 10 most common boy and girl dog names. The results are very interesting – take a look!Here are the top 10 male dog names:10. Leo:A very unique name that’s quick on the tongue, and very fitting for large and majestic doggos. A lion always comes to mind.9. Ollie:Believe it or not, Ollie is a gender-neutral name, but fits perfectly with energetic and goofy male puppers.8. Moose:Who would think that Moose is such a common dog name? It is fun, that is for sure, and strangely fitting too.7. Zeus:The mighty God of thunder in Ancient Greece has come a long way over the centuries. Nowadays, his name is given to dogs!6. Oliver:A classic, elegant, and fun name that, although used for humans, fits doggos as well. 5. Finn:An old-timey name that belongs on the pages of some good youth novel, Finn is remarkably fitting for puppers.4. Loki:The trickster god of the Old Norse has found his way into the modern age in a rather odd way. Lately, Norse gods are a popular choice for dog names.3. Bear:How adorable would it be to name your tiny little pup Bear? 2. Cooper:A simple but very fun name that works well for male pets of all characters and sizes.1. Milo:A very ancient-sounding name, Milo is the number one choice of many owners. Are you surprised that this is number 1? Well, you saw the most common names for boy dogs, so now it’s the girls’ turn. Let’s see their list!10. Sadie:This adorable female dog name, it brings to mind the summer, flowers, and all things girly.9. Nova:In stark contrast to Sadie, Nova sounds quite futuristic, and strong, and rolls easily off the tongue. Did you know that a Nova is an astronomical term? It is the name given to bright stars that appear suddenly in the sky and release powerful energy. Wonderful symbolism.8. Willow:Back to vintage and cozy-sounding names with Willow, a true classic that belongs to the pages of an old children’s book.7. Nala:Here’s a name that is quite a surprise. It is unique, modern, and not heard that often. But, according to this survey, it belongs with other most common female dog names!6. Stella:A name of Latin origin, it translates to “star”. And what better name to give to your zoomy, fun, and lovely female pup?5. Bailey:This is another fun and homely name that is often given to pets. Any similarity with a favorite drink is pure coincidence!4. Lucy:If you have a kind, loveable, and gentle female doggo, then you cannot go wrong with a name such as Lucy!3. Daisy:This is one of the most popular names given to animals, especially cows. But surprisingly, it works well for dogs too!2. Bella:A classic feminine name, Bella is ideal for all female puppers, no matter their character.1. Luna:And the number one female dog's name is Luna, which is Latin for “Moon”. It is simple and pretty, which makes it an easy choice for many owners!So, were you surprised by this survey? What is your favorite dog name? Let us know!

How To Tell if a Cat Is Cold

Despite your cat’s luxurious coat, they can feel cold sometimes, and it’s important to make it easy for them to warm up because, if they get too cold, they could become hypothermic. Keep reading to learn how to spot the signs that your cat is cold, and how to help them feel warm and comfortable.Signs Your Cat Is ColdCats of all ages and breeds can feel the effects of the cold, but kittens, seniors, and those who are ill are more susceptible. And, of course, hairless cats can get cold even faster. Here are some of the ways to tell if your cat is cold:Your cat’s body feels cold – Feel your cat’s body to see if they’re cold to the touch. If their ears, paws, and tail are colder than normal, they may need help warming up. Your cat’s posture changes – A cat who’s cold may curl up in a ball to try to warm up. You might also find them puffing up their fur or they might be in a hunched position as they try to conserve heat. Your cat is looking for warmer spots – A kitty who’s feeling the chill in the air will find the warmest spots in the house. They might get under the thick blanket on your bed, or they might insist on sitting in your lap. And you might find them spending more time near a heater or fireplace. During the day, they might also move to areas that get more sunshine to feel its warmth.Your cat isn’t as active – When a cat feels too cold, they may become less active. If your pet is sleeping more or appears lethargic, first make sure that another medical issue isn’t to blame. If it’s because they’re cold, take action to warm them up, including turning up the heat in your home. Bear in mind that cats with certain conditions, such as arthritis, might feel even more discomfort when it’s cold, and this can lead to changes in activity level and behavior too.Your cat starts shivering – Like people, cats shiver when they’re very cold, and this is a sign that you need to warm them up right away. But because this could also be a symptom of other problems, from illness and pain to stress and fear, be sure to determine if temperature is really the culprit.What To Do if Your Cat Is ColdThere are many ways to help your feline friend feel cozy and comfortable, such as:Give your cat a cozy bed and blanket in a warm spotWhen you see that your cat is feeling cold, give them a warm bed that they can rest in to warm up. There are heated beds that you plug in, as well as self-warming beds that work without electricity. Plus, there are heated pads that can be helpful in making your kitty feel cozy. And you can let your cat crawl under a soft blanket for extra warmth. Just be sure to use heated beds and pads as directed to prevent injuries. Let your cat relax in a warm area in the house, such as near a heat source or in a spot where the sunshine streams in during the day. Move your pet away from drafts.Snuggle with your catOnce your cat finds a comfortable spot on the bed or sofa, you can lie down next to them to help them warm up with your body heat. They’re sure to love the attention, and you’ll get to be near your purring feline friend.  Put sweaters on your catAs long as your kitty doesn’t mind wearing clothes, you can use sweaters to keep them warm on chilly days. This is especially useful for hairless kitties. And you can use clothes to keep your cat warm while exploring the outdoors with you.Protect cats who spend time outsideIf your pet is an adventure cat who goes outside with you, or an indoor/outdoor cat who goes out on their own, check outdoor temperatures first. Generally, it’s best to let them spend time outside only when it’s at least 45°F (7°C), but every cat is different, so some might only feel comfortable when it’s even warmer than that.Whenever it’s cold, raining, windy, or snowing, keep them indoors until the weather clears and warms up. Remember, cats who are cold or wet for too long are at risk of frostbite and hypothermia.Note: If you have an outdoor cat, they’ll look for shelter to stay as warm as possible, so give them a safe and dry outdoor enclosure that will protect them from the elements if you can’t bring them into your home, which would be preferable.Check Out These Products That Help Cats Stay WarmHere are a few products we recommend for keeping your cat warm: K&H Thermo-Kitty Bed Deluxe Hooded

New Tool Detects and Predicts Dog Mobility Issues

Researchers at the University of Liverpool and experts at Dogs Trust have joined forces to create a unique new tool for detecting and predicting dog mobility issues. These veterinary experts have developed the GenPup-M questionnaire. This survey asks dog owners a series of questions to about their dog's mobility. The GenPup-M questionnaire is designed in a way that can help owners determine whether their dog might be experiencing mobility problems, even mild ones. Mobility-related problems are the third most commonly diagnosed disease in dogs. It’s estimated that 200,000 dogs are affected by musculoskeletal disease annually. According to some estimates, 20% of dogs have mobility issues before one year old, but most aren’t diagnosed until they are eight to 13 years old. Current mobility questionnaires are developed for dogs already diagnosed with mobility problems and track their quality of life. This means that many dogs spend the better part of their lives living with a painful condition that negatively impacts their overall health and well-being. A recent study, published in PLOS ONE confirms the validity of the GenPup-M questionnaire. The study involved 62 dogs - 31 with mobility issues and 31 without mobility issues.Scientists obtained the dogs’ clinical history from the owners, and all dogs received an orthopedic exam at the beginning of the study. Next, owners were asked to complete the GenPup-M questionnaire along with a previously validated mobility questionnaire.To determine the survey’s validity and its ability to identify mobility issues in dogs, scientists compared GenPup-M responses with the results of other expert tests, including advanced gait analysis.“Impaired mobility can affect a dog’s ability to engage in daily activities and interactions, move or exercise freely. If an animal is unwilling to or cannot play, exercise, or express normal behavior, this can impact its quality of life,” said Natasha Clark, veterinary surgeon and researcher at the Department of Musculoskeletal & Aging Science at the University of Liverpool. According to Clark, when done over time at regular checkups, the GenPup-M questionnaire can identify subtle changes in a dog’s mobility without the use of expensive and time-consuming gait analysis. This new tool can help vets diagnose and slow the development of mobility problems in dogs. “Our research doesn’t stop here and we will continue to research and develop GenPup-M to refine it as an even more effective tool for vets and dog caregivers,” added Clark.The Deputy Head of Research, Welfare Projects & Grants at Dogs Trust, Dr Jane Murray, said, “We are delighted to work collaboratively with the University of Liverpool on this study which serves to improve the well-being of dogs, as no dog is immune to mobility issues. Generation Pup is a ground-breaking study of the health, welfare, and behavior of our dogs and we hope this research helps more owners detect early signs of mobility issues, leading to veterinary and management interventions that can improve the welfare of the affected dogs.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Size of Cage Does My Hamster Need?

Final Thoughts: The Best Hamster Cage SetupWhen setting up your hamster’s habitat, consider the floor space available. They are active and energetic creatures that need to be able to run, demanding more freedom to move than is often available in the overly hyped commercial cages. Instead, ensure the cage offers at least 24” by 12” of floor space on the main floor. Several cage styles are available, including wire cages, glass aquariums, and plastic pens. If you want to extend their habitat with a second floor, be cautious about the risk of injury. A long fall can be catastrophic. Include all necessities on the main floor of your hamster’s cage. This includes plenty of bedding to burrow into, clean hay, chew toys/enrichment opportunities, an appropriately sized exercise wheel, and access to fresh food and water. A proper habitat is the foundation for a happy, healthy life for your furry friend! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need?

Sleep allows all big and little creatures to rest, regenerate, grow, and gain strength for further milestones in life. Dogs, too, need to have enough  sleep to thrive – both during the day and through the night. But some doggos love to snooze more and others, and then there are those who won’t sleep that much at all. So what is the bottom line? How much sleep do dogs need exactly? While there can’t be a general, straightforward answer (after all, not all dogs are identical), there are some general rules and guidelines to follow. How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need Daily?The amount of sleep a dog needs can vary depending on factors such as their age, breed, and activity level. Generally, dogs sleep a significant portion of the day, and their sleep patterns can be quite different from humans. Here's a rough guideline for how much sleep dogs typically need on a daily basis – based on their age, lifestyle, and so on.Puppies, naturally, need a lot of sleep, usually around 18 to 20 hours a day. They have bursts of energy and playfulness, which are followed by periods of deep sleep. Puppies are still growing, and sleep is essential for their development.Adult dogs, on the other hand, are not such sleepy heads. Still, they will sleep more often than not. Most adult dogs sleep around 12 to 14 hours a day, although this can vary. Larger breeds tend to sleep more than smaller breeds. Active and working dogs, such as herding or hunting breeds, may require more sleep to recover from their daily activities. There are also seniors, who get tired more quickly and need plenty of rest during the daytime. Older dogs may sleep more than younger adults, often in the range of 14 to 16 hours a day. Senior dogs tend to be less active and love to snooze whenever there’s a chance. It's important to note that individual dogs can have different sleep needs. Some dogs may sleep more or less than the average, and this can be influenced by their overall health and well-being. It's also influenced by their daily routine, exercise, and mental stimulation. Then again, some doggos are straight-out lazy – they love to snooze, hate to jump around and exercise, and snore as much as they want! This is not something you should worry about unless it comes about suddenly. That’s just how some dogs are. 

What Is Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) dates back thousands of years, and both humans and animals can benefit from it. When applied to pets, it’s referred to as Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM).Veterinarians trained in TCM are able to go beyond the use of pharmaceuticals to also incorporate natural remedies like herbs and acupuncture. If you’re interested in learning more about what TCM is and how it can benefit pets, continue reading.Traditional Chinese Medicine for PetsBased on Daoist philosophy, Chinese Medicine takes a holistic approach and views an animal’s body as a part of the universe. Energy, referred to as Qi, flows through individuals and through the universe, so TCM practitioners look at more than just physical symptoms. They will consider what imbalances are occurring in the body, and how those imbalances can be fixed to restore the body to a state of harmony.Each pet is viewed as a unique individual who can be affected by various factors beyond the physical body. A veterinarian will ask about their daily life and their home environment. They’ll also consider the pet’s personality and behavior, including the things they enjoy, to figure out what may be causing their ailment and choose the right remedy.In addition, this healing system focuses on five elements of earth, water, fire, wood, and metal, as well as five seasons of autumn, winter, spring, summer, and late summer, to diagnose and treat patients. Each season is linked to an element, and an animal moves through the seasons throughout their life (e.g., spring phase when they’re young and winter phase when they’re old). Also, the organs throughout the body are associated with these seasons and elements, and they affect each other, so all of this is taken into consideration when diagnosing and treating patients.For someone just learning about TCM, it can all be quite complicated. But a practitioner with a lot of knowledge and experience in this area will be able to understand how the body works as a whole and how it is influenced by the external world as well.What Types of Treatments Are Included in TCM?Veterinarians who practice TCM use several types of treatments to address a variety of pet health concerns. Those include:Herbs: A variety of herbs are used in TCVM, and your veterinarian will determine which ones are best for your pet. Your furry friend might need a single herb or a combination of herbs to feel better. Herbs can be potent, and it’s wise to discuss potential side effects with your vet. Also, if your pet is taking other supplements or medications, your vet will determine if adding certain herbs to the mix is safe.Food Therapy: Providing your pet with the right nutrition can be helpful in maintaining and improving their health, and you can receive personalized guidance in this area from a vet who practices TCVM. Certain ingredients, diets, and/or supplements might be recommended based on your companion’s specific needs. Options like Herbsmith Smiling Dog Treats and Herbsmith Sassy Cat Treats can be used to provide warming, cooling, or neutral foods to rebalance your pet’s constitution.

What is the Best Dog Harness for Senior Dogs?

Final Thoughts – The Best Harness for Senior Dogs Many veterinarians and experts on the health and care of senior dogs will recommend using a harness. However, not all harnesses are created to meet the needs of every life stage. When selecting a harness for an older dog, there are unique factors to consider. This includes the weight and bulkiness of the harness, how easy it is to put it on/take it off, and the padding inside the harness for their comfort. Pay careful attention to ensure the design or fit doesn’t limit or impact movement. There are many great harness options on the market, including those made for regular wear and specialized lift support harnesses with convenient shoulder straps. If possible, visit your local pet store with your senior dog to check out your options firsthand. This will help you better assess the size needed and whether the design suits your dog’s unique needs. Most importantly, remember that there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution. You may find that you are using two different harnesses with two senior dogs in your home. That’s okay! The goal is to find the option that supports all your dog’s needs and helps you give them the best possible quality of life. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Much Outdoor Time Does My Dog Need?

Spending time outside is very important for overall physical and mental health, both for humans and animals alike. Our pets, dogs especially, can be quite dependent on the time they spend outdoors. It helps stimulate them, keep them mobile and active, and also helps them spend all that extra energy they have stored which in turn impacts their behavior for the better. But as it is with everything in life, there is always too little and too much of a good thing. So in the end, it does make you wonder – just how much outdoor time does your dog need? And, can you really overdo it? Let’s find out!How Much Outdoor Time Does My Dog Need?The amount of outdoor time your dog needs can vary based on factors such as their breed, age, health, and individual preferences of your dog. It can’t really be the exact same for all dogs out there. Just like humans, some pooches have preferences of their own. Some love to snooze and relax, and aren’t really fans of going outside and zooming about. Others, however, can’t get enough of adventures in the great outdoors. Still, in general, all dogs require at least a small amount of daily outdoor exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. With that in mind, these are some main factors that could influence the amount of time your pet needs to spend outside of the house:BreedDifferent breeds have different energy levels and exercise requirements. High-energy breeds like Border Collies or Labrador Retrievers may need more outdoor time compared to lower-energy breeds like Bulldogs or Basset Hounds. As you get to know your pet and the specifics of their breed, this too will become apparent. AgeAge plays a major role in dog energy levels. Puppies generally have more energy and may require several short play and exercise sessions throughout the day. Adult dogs on the other hand usually need at least 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise per day, depending on the breed and individual needs, whereas seniors usually don’t have as much energy so one walk a day will do just fine for a pooch in his golden years.HealthDogs with certain health issues may have specific exercise restrictions. Consult with your veterinarian to determine an appropriate exercise plan for a dog with health concerns. Don’t overdo it with your dog, if the vet prohibits it. The same goes for seniors, who can’t really play all that much outside. SizeDog size is a big factor in determining energy levels and the need for outdoor fun. Smaller breeds may get sufficient exercise with a shorter walk or playtime, while larger breeds might need longer and more vigorous activities.Individual PreferencesSome dogs are more active and enjoy activities like fetching, running, or hiking, while others may be content with a shorter walk or playtime in the yard. On the other hand, some breeds, due to their inherent traits, might love relaxing outside, even when it's chilly. Others, though, will love the warmth and coziness found indoors. 

Firefighters Save Dog From Drowning in the Icy Waters of Lake Superior

A dog is lucky to be alive after taking a dip into Lake Superior’s frigid December waters. Minnesota Firefighters battled biting cold and eight-foot-tall waves to save the pooch who escaped from their leash and jumped into the lake’s freezing water. The Duluth Minnesota Fire Department posted on social media that several marine units were sent to rescue a dog that jumped into Lake Superior from the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge. The pup’s owner met the rescues on the bridge and pointed out the dog struggling to stay afloat in eight-foot-plus waves in the middle of the ship canal. Crews donned ice rescue suits before entering the lake to protect them from the ice-cold water of Lake Superior. At the same time, additional rescues were sent with the department’s 14-foot inflatable boat to assist the crew in the water. The rescue team fought their way through freezing water and huge waves to find the dog, but couldn’t see him due to low light and waves. The dog’s coat was also dark in color and they kept slipping under the water, making them hard to find.Thanks to the dog owner and fire personnel who shouted directions from the pier, the firefighters managed to locate the dog and grab them by their collar. Even though they had their hands on the pup, firefighters faced several problems before bringing the dog safely to the shore. The crew tried to swim with the dog to the shore, but they struggled in high waves. The pooch was large and terrified, and rescues struggled to keep its head above water. The waves swept the firefighters and the pup under the Duluth bridge, towards the bay and away from shore. Luckily the additional firefighters arrived with an inflatable boat and pulled the dog and the rescues from freezing waters.As soon as their paws touched solid ground, the exhausted pooch was treated for hypothermia by emergency staff. To everyone’s delight, the dog’s condition improved quickly and they were able to walk on their own. According to officials, the dog was wagging their tail as they jumped into their owner’s car. The Duluth Minnesota Fire Department shared that firefighters prevented the dog’s owner from jumping into the water in an attempt to save the beloved dog themselves. The officials added that bystanders had to convince the owner not to go in after the dog and warned people against putting themselves in danger to save a pet.“The Duluth Fire Department wants to stress to the public the importance of not putting yourself into a situation you are neither trained nor equipped to handle. This will not only put you at risk but the emergency responders as well. It will also greatly limit the options we have to try and save your pet as all efforts will now be directed at saving you,” Duluth Fire Department officials said.“We have learned in the fire service that if we don’t respond to help in these situations that bystanders and owners likely will take action on their own,” they added. “Without the proper training and equipment, this most often results in the firefighters now responding to a call for a person in harm’s way.”“Given the waves and temperature conditions in the canal last night, anyone entering the water without the proper training and equipment would most likely have ended in tragedy,” fire officials added. Luckily for all that wasn’t the case! Thanks to the brave firefighters the pooch and their owner are safe and can enjoy each other’s company for many years to come.  Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Amazon Took Some Heat with 2023 Super Bowl Ad

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Why Is My Bird Biting Me?

If you’re a bird parent, you love and cherish your feathered friend – but what do you do when your bird nips or bites? This is a behavior that can be both surprising and concerning, especially for first-time bird parents. But know, you’re not alone!If you’re wondering, “Why is my bird biting me?” This article is for you!We will explore the different factors and explanations for your pet bird’s newly developed biting tendencies, helping you understand the motivations, identify when there is a deeper problem requiring your attention, and learn how to address the behavior appropriately.Let’s look at how to set you and your bird up for a long, happy relationship by addressing problem biting today.Do Bird Bites Hurt?The short answer to this is – Maybe? Whether or not your bird’s bite will hurt depends on a few factors, including how the bird bites, their overall intention, your bird’s size, and your level of pain tolerance.Bird bites can range from a light little nibble that merely tickles to bites that have the capability of causing serious damage, especially to vulnerable areas like the eyes, ears, nose, lips, fingers, and toes.The potential for a bird bite to cause severe or lasting injuries highlights the importance of understanding your bird, why they may bite, and how to prevent this situation from happening. It’s also one of the most important reasons to consider when deciding if a bird is right for your child, elderly, or special needs family member.Even smaller birds can cause a surprising amount of pain. Often, it’s not the initial bite that causes the most pain. Instead, it’s the way that they will dig in or even grind their beaks that will lead to discomfort, stinging, and soreness.

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The Season of Giving Begins With A Leap

We're excited to announce a special initiative in celebration of the season of thankfulness and November's Senior Pet Adoption Month. Starting today, Leap Years is offering a free bottle of its daily chewable supplement to anyone who adopts a senior dog (over 5 years old) from a shelter or rescue. All you need is proof of adoption, and while supplies last, your senior pup can start benefiting from Leap Years' formula that has already changed the lives of dogs across the country.

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