What Is A Puppy Mill?

by Kate Barrington

Published: June 8th, 2015

You may stop to ask how much is that doggy in the window, but do you ever stop to think about how he got there? Chances are, that pet store pooch is from a puppy mill.

If you are thinking about buying a dog, you need to be careful where you get it. It may be tempting to simply stop in to your local pet store and purchase one of the puppies available, but this not an educated and responsible choice. You don’t know where the puppies in that store came from and it’s highly likely that they were bred in a puppy mill. Let’s talk about what a puppy mill actually is, why they are bad, and what you can do to stop them.

What is a Puppy Mill?

A puppy mill is a commercial breeding facility where large numbers of dogs are bred for sale primarily in pet stores, and also on the Internet. It is estimated that about 90 percent of puppies sold in pet stores come from puppy mills. These stores typically do not look into the facilities where the puppies are born, they simply take the wholesaler or supplier at his word that the puppies were raised in a safe and healthy facility. In many cases, the dogs used for breeding in puppy mills are kept in cramped cages and forced to produce litter after litter for as long as they live. Conditions are squalid with overcrowding being one of the main issues – dogs in puppy mills are also frequently malnourished or forced to suffer from medical conditions with no veterinary care. In short, puppy mills are designed to maximize the wholesalers profits at the expense of the dogs used for breeding.

Things You Can Do to Help

While you alone may not be able to stop puppy mills from churning out puppies, there are a few things you can do to contribute to the fight against these horrible facilities. The number one thing you can do is to be responsible about where you buy your puppy. Do not buy from a pet store unless you are able to make direct contact with the supplier and can confirm that it is a reputable breeder who follows safe and responsible breeding practices. The only exception to this rule is for pet stores that only offer puppies and dogs from local animal shelters or rescues. It is still possible that these dogs were bred in a puppy, but removed by a shelter or surrendered by the original owner. However, you will be supporting the shelter in adopting the dog rather than supporting the puppy mill in which it was bred.

When searching for a reputable breeder from which to purchase a puppy, make sure you do your research. Not only should you call and speak to the breeder directly but you should visit the facilities to make sure that both the puppies and the breeding stock are housed in safe, sanitary facilities and that they are in good health. If the breeder fails to answer your questions, doesn’t want to give you a tour of the facilities, or if he offers puppies less than six weeks old, these are all red flags and signs of a breeder who chooses his own profit over the welfare of his animals.

In addition to purchasing your puppy from a reputable breeder, you can also support local, state, and national legislation that aims to protect animals from cruelty. Write to your local council in support of laws that limit the number of animals a person is allowed to keep and breed. Vote for laws that aim to ensure proper treatment for animals including access to clean food and water, proper housing, and veterinary care. You can also urge (by petition, boycott or peaceful demonstration) your local pet stores to supply pets from local shelters instead of buying them from questionable sources.

Puppy mills are a huge problem in this country, but there is something we can do to get them shut down. Join forces with other pet lovers who share your belief, spread the word about how cruel this mills are and stand up for the rights of helpless animals. Together, we can put an end to puppy mills for good.

Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

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What Is Puppy Strangles?

Puppy strangles is a rare skin condition that affects mostly young dogs. Read on to learn more about this disease and how to treat it. Sometimes, things just don’t go as planned. Our four-legged friends sometimes suffer from conditions that can’t really be explained. Such are things in the pet parenting world from time to time- unexpected and scary. The so-called “puppy strangles” are a rare skin condition, but a dangerous one nonetheless. Known also as juvenile cellulitis, and juvenile pyoderma, this mean disease usually targets puppies that are only growing up – between one and six months. Sometimes – even more rarely – strangles affect adult dogs, up to four years of age. Now, even though this condition is very rare, it is nonetheless quite dangerous, and dog owners should know all about it. Curiously, no one knows why puppy strangles appear. It’s one of those enigmatic illnesses that has experts baffled. Some suggest that it has something to do with imbalances of the immune system in newborn puppies, due to the fact that usually just one puppy from the litter will have it. But, still, nothing is known for certain. There is also an interesting observation that strangles often appear in certain mixed breeds, and in particular amongst Dachshunds, Setters, Beagles, Pointers, and Golden Retrievers. One of the first signs of puppy strangles is the swelling of the puppy’s face, chin, muzzle, eyelids, and lips. In just 48 hours, these swellings will develop crusty bulbs, known as pustules, which may contain pus and bleed if irritated. These are mixed in with pimples and other crusty growths, and should not be touched. If irritated, they can leave permanent scarring on your dog. As strangles is an inflammatory process in general, the puppy’s lymph nodes will also be swollen, as a clear sign that the immune system is under attack. The swelling is severe and affects the puppies in numerous ways. One of the first symptoms is lethargy, with significantly decreased energy levels. Fever also appears soon after, and there is a possibility of severe joint pain that limits the puppy’s mobility. In general, strangles are dangerous as they make the dog ill, lethargic, and uncomfortable, further limiting their appetite and the ability to eat properly due to extreme swelling. This means that if strangles are left unchecked, your puppy may die of starvation and weakness. Of course, if you notice any of the signs, you should seek immediate veterinary help. There are a number of ways in which strangles are dealt with, but the main approach is to suppress the auto-immune reaction that triggers the swelling. To do this, your vet will likely prescribe immunosuppressive drugs, to be taken for several weeks. Antibiotics are also often prescribed in order to limit scabbing and possible infections from broken pustules and pimples. Antibiotics also make the ordeal much easier for your dog. Some special ointments can also be used to treat the affected skin and soothe the oozing scabs. In the end, things can work out well. With your prompt reaction and professional care, your puppy can fight through the strangles and continue to thrive and grow into a healthy, happy adult.

Help The Puppy Mill Project Shut Down The Puppy Production Line

Out to change the world for mill dogs, The Puppy Mill Project works to expose, educate, and offer alternatives in a growing movement to shut down puppy mills once and for all. Who doesn’t love a puppy? Those big brown eyes, that wet nose, a fluffy tail that tickles your toes. It’s hard to imagine these lovable little guys as “products.” But to puppy mill operators, they’re just a commodity. The big problem with puppy mills, aside from the torturous conditions under which animals are kept, is that many people are simply unaware of how common they are, and seemingly reputable puppy dealers, like pet stores, are helping to keep these puppy production lines in business. The Puppy Mill Project (TPMP), a Not For Profit corporation, is working to change that by creating awareness by educating the public. “Ninety nine percent of all pet store puppies are puppy mill puppies,” states the organization’s website. As long as the demand for these dogs exists, puppy mills will continue to operate. By exposing the facts about puppy mills, TPMP aims to point would-be pet parents to alternative sources for furry friends, like animal rescues, adoption and responsible breeders that operate under the “humane model.” By cutting off puppy mills’ business and profits, TPMP hopes to shut down these pitiless puppy factories. Related: From Rescue To Runway: Cavalier Newest Model For Designer Karen Walker The Puppy Production Line How much is that doggy in the window? The price is more than you’d think. When you purchase a puppy at your local pet store, the chances are pretty good that it came from a puppy mill. According to TPMP, approximately 2.5 million puppies are born in puppy mills every year. And more puppies mean more money in the hands of the mill operators. To maximize their profits, puppies are denied medical care, while the breeding dogs (some 400,000 of them) are kept, caged, starved, lack medical care, and many never see the light of day – or another day. The sad truth is that the United States Department of Agriculture, which is charged with monitoring some 3,300 commercially licensed breeding facilities, simply doesn’t have the means to keep tabs on them all, not to mention the unlicensed facilities. Puppy mill operators are literally getting away with murder, and it will continue as long as the orders keep coming in for these “production line puppies.” Related: What To Look For In A Reputable Breeder TPMP on the street The Puppy Mill Project aims to educate people about responsible pet sources, and expose the dodgy ones. That’s why you’ll find TPMP volunteers all across the Chicago land area at community events, festivals and expos. You’ve probably seen the group staging peaceful protests at local pet stores – a weekly event since the organization’s inception in 2009. You may have even seen them at your kids’ preschool, elementary school, high school or college, where they conduct age-appropriate educational programs and lectures. The organization recognizes that kids play a huge role in choosing the family pet, and TMPM teaches these young influencers to make responsible choices. What can you do? If you want to be an agent for change, you need to hurt puppy mill operators where it hurts – right in their profits! Don’t buy your puppies from pet stores. Get educated. First, check out your local shelters for in-need puppies looking for good homes. If you want a particular breed of puppy, research breeders to ensure they are reputable and make sure to visit the breeder at their home and meet both of the puppy’s parents. Spread the word and join The Puppy Mill Project movement. For more information, to donate to the cause or to learn how you can stop puppy mills in your area, visit The Puppy Mill Project website.

10 Signs Your Dog is From a Puppy Mill

Puppies that come from puppy mills often come with a host of health problems, due to the environment they are raised in. By knowing what to look for in puppy mill puppies, you can help stop their sale. Whether you are a current dog owner or not, you have probably heard the phrase “puppy mill” tossed around but you may not know what it actually means. Puppy mills are deplorable and the puppies they produce are often malnourished, riddled with health problems, and likely to die young. You should avoid buying puppy mill puppies not only for these reasons but also because it means that you won’t be supporting these operations. What are Puppy Mills and Why Are They Bad? A puppy mill is simply a large-scale dog breeding facility. What sets a puppy mill apart from a reputable breeding program is the fact that profit is given priority over the health and well-being of the dogs. Many puppy mill breeders are forced to whelp litter after litter of puppies with little rest in between and without proper veterinary care and nutritional support. Puppy mill breeders often suffer from malnutrition and a number of health problems which puts their puppies at risk for these same problems. Related: What Is A Puppy Mill? The conditions in a puppy mill are usually overcrowded and unsanitary. The dogs used for breeding do not receive proper veterinary care and they certainly do not undergo any kind of genetic testing to rule out hereditary conditions. The puppies produced in puppy mills are often sold directly to pet stores or over the internet as soon as they are weaned and many of them are already suffering from serious health problems by the time they are sold. Due to these health problems, many puppy mill puppies die young or develop serious problems within the first year of life. Related: Help The Puppy Mill Project Shut Down The Puppy Production Line How to Identify a Puppy Mill Puppy As horrible as puppy mills are, the ASPCA estimates that there are still more than 10,000 of them in the United States alone. If you want to make sure that your next puppy isn’t coming from a puppy mill, keep an eye out for the following ten signs: The puppies come from out-of-state – particular Midwestern states like Missouri and Illinois.The puppy’s parents are not kept in the same facility and you cannot see them before buying.The breeder wants to meet somewhere else if you request a visit to their facility.The facility offers several different breeds – reputable breeders focus on one or two breeds.The breeder has multiple litters available at the same time.Neither the parents nor the puppies have been vaccinated properly.The breeder makes extreme promises about the puppy’s size, temperament or another quality.The puppies may smell like a kennel and they are likely to have poor coat quality.The breeder doesn’t ask you to fill out any kind of contract or spay/neuter agreement.The puppy is under 8 weeks of age or appears to be much younger than the breeder claims. Unfortunately, if something on this list is true about the puppy you are thinking about buying, a puppy mill breeder is unlikely to be honest about it. For example, a puppy mill breeder might be able to offer you papers and a license for your puppy but if you look more closely you may be able to tell that it is fake. If at any point the breeder doesn’t appear to be forthcoming about information regarding the puppy, its parents, or the breeding facilities it is a big red flag. Not only should you avoid buying from this breeder but you should also report him to the ASPCA or the Humane Society. Buying a puppy from a pet store is a big risk for a number of reasons. For one thing, many of the puppies sold in pet stores come from puppy mills and it is very easy to fake the papers or registration that pet store owners use to convince you that it is not so. If you really want a puppy, consider adopting from a shelter or go through a reputable breeder.

New NJ Law Seeks To Ban Sale Of Puppy Mill Dogs

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

British Government Wants to Crack Down on Puppy Mill Breeders

To improve animal welfare standards and put a stop to backyard breeding, Britain’s environment secretary could be placing a ban on all third-party puppy sales. There’s no lack of horrible rescue stories or devastating facts about puppy mill breeders. These people, who put profit above everything else- including an animal’s well-being, are responsible for a significant percentage of abused and unfortunate pets around the world. In the United Kingdom, state officials seem to recognize the urgency of the matter and plan shutting the door on dubious breeding practices- starting with banning pet shops from selling puppies. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, which is pushing the bill, is well aware of potential for misuse and loopholes that backyard breeders could exploit. The first concern rescue organizations and animal shelters expressed is that the puppy farmers could pose as sanctuaries or rescues, deceiving people looking to adopt their new four-legged best friend. The solution government proposes includes stricter inspections and mandatory licenses, which would ensure that their businesses are legit and up to standards. Here are the new rules for Brittain’s breeders, that are to take effect later this year: obtain a licensepuppies and kittens that are being sold have to be over eight weeks oldsales must be completed in personpuppies are to be shown with their motherbreeders can only sell puppies from their own litters If all goes to plan, imposing stricter rules on breeders will not only improve the welfare of pets born in their care but stimulate more people to turn to rehoming centers, such as local shelters and rescue organizations, where they would be able to adopt a pet in need of a furrever home. The ban on third-party puppy sale, particularly in pet shops, is just one of many regulations government plans to introduce in hopes of bettering lives of animals: one of them is increasing maximum prison sentences tenfold for animals abusers. All I have to add is: way to go, UK! One can only hope that more and more countries across the world will realize how important is to protect our animal friends from people that mean to exploit and harm them.

Cat in Heat: Signs and What to Do

If you have an unspayed female cat, it’s just a matter of time before she goes into heat and is ready to mate. But will you be able to recognize that she’s in heat, and will you know what to do? Here’s some basic information on the signs that a cat is in heat and what you can do to make sure your cat doesn’t get pregnant and produce an unwanted litter.When Do Cats Start Going into Heat?A cat can go into heat (known as estrus) at a surprisingly young age. On average, her first heat can occur at roughly 6 months old. But some cats will go into heat sooner, such as around 4 months old, or later, such as closer to 1 year old.Several factors, such as the cat’s breed, her weight and body condition, and the time of year and amount of daylight, influence when a female kitten that hasn’t been spayed will go into heat for the first time. So, it can be difficult to predict when it will happen.Note: A nursing mother cat with a litter of kittens could go into heat and get pregnant again.How Long Is a Cat in Heat?On average, a cat will be in heat for seven days, but it is possible for a cat to be in heat longer, such as for 14 days, or for a shorter period, such as two days. If she doesn’t mate, the heat will end but restart a short time later, such as a couple of weeks later. But if she mates, she’ll ovulate and move out of heat in a couple of days. Note: Cats can be in heat multiple times throughout the year. The environment they live in and the number of daylight hours can affect if they go into heat.Signs a Female Cat Is in HeatBehavioral changes are the main things to look for to determine if your cat is in heat. Here are some of the common signs:Vocalizations – your cat will yowl and meow more loudly and more often than usualAttempts to get outside – your cat will try her best to sneak or dart out the door in search of a mateChanges in posture – your cat will stick her rear end up in the hopes she’ll grab the attention of a male kittyIncreased urination or spraying – your cat may urinate more often, and she might mark spots around the house by spraying urine on themSeeking attention – your cat will be more demanding, seeking your attention and affection, and will rub her face and body on people and objects around the houseRolling – your cat will roll around on the floor more than usualGrooming more – your cat will groom herself more, and you may notice her grooming the genital area moreWhat to Do When Your Cat Is in HeatOnce your cat is in heat, there’s really nothing that you can do about it except wait for it to end. In the meantime, she can easily get pregnant, so it’s important to keep her indoors and away from intact males.In addition to that, you can try calming her down by giving her your attention. If she’s acting restless, you can encourage her to play with a wand toy, which is perfect for interacting with your pet and showing her you care.  A good example is the Our Pets Play-N-Squeak at Night Twinkle Mouse Cat Wand. It features a stuffed mouse that squeaks when hit, along with feathers and a long string so your kitty can chase down or jump up and grab her “prey.”

Study Finds Pets Didn't Make People Happier During the Pandemic

Would you say that your pet help you feel better during the pandemic? Countless pet parents, myself included, would say they experienced less stress and anxiety during lockdown thanks to their four-legged companions. However, a new study led by researchers from Michigan State University suggests otherwise. Researchers couldn’t find a reliable association between pet ownership and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic, even though owners claimed pets improved their lives. The pandemic was extremely stressful for everyone. The research team from Michigan State University theorized that the pandemic created ideal conditions to determine how much happiness and comfort pets actually provide to their families. The study, published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, evaluated 767 people on three separate occasions in May 2020. The researchers used a mixed-method approach, looking at several indicators of well-being. They also asked owners in an open-ended question to think about the role of pets. Unsurprisingly, pet owners reported their pets made them happy. Owners claimed pets help them feel more positive emotions and provide companionship and affection, but also expressed worry about their pet’s well-being and reported their pets interfered with working remotely. But when researchers compared the happiness of pet owners to levels seen in non-pet owners they made a surprising discovery. Shockingly, the data showed no difference in the well-being of pet owners and non-pet owners over time. The research team explained that it did not matter what type of pet people owned, how many pets they had, or how close owners were with their pets. The personalities of the owners weren’t a factor either. “People say pets make them happy, but when we actually measure happiness that doesn’t appear to be the case,” said William Chopik, an associate professor in MSU’s Department of Psychology and co-author of the study, in a university release. “People see friends as lonely or wanting companionship, and they recommend getting a pet. But it’s unlikely to be as transformative as people think,” added Chopik. The research team also explored several other potential reasons as to why there was no difference in the happiness levels of pet owners and non-pet owners. The most likely reason might be that non-pet owners have found ways to fill their lives with activities and interests that make them as happy as owning a pet would. “Staking all of your hope on a pet making you feel better is probably unfair and maybe costly, given other things you could do in your life that could improve your happiness,”  said Chopik. Another study, involving 4,237 people, beginning at the start of the pandemic and ending in December 2021, had similar findings. Although owners grew closer to their pets, especially dogs, during the pandemic, that didn’t stave off stress.In fact, the lowest stress levels were seen in non-pet owners. When you think about it, these results kind of make sense - pet owners had an additional mouth to feed during the lockdown and had limited opportunities to take their dogs out for a walk or play session. The results of these studies are surprising, to say the least. I was positive that I was happier than my poochless friends during the lockdown, but guess that wasn’t the case. After thinking about this a bit more, I realized that maybe we shouldn’t expect so much from our four-legged companions. Yes, there are many benefits to owning a pet, and pets can make us happy, but ultimately happiness depends on ourselves. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Do I Do if My Dog Has a Chipped Tooth?

Discovering that your dog is hurt or in pain is a concerning moment for any pet parent, regardless of the injury. But dental injuries can be particularly stressful. If you have ever experienced a toothache, you understand!Whether your pup chipped a tooth during a rough play session with their best furry friend or while gnawing on a hard chew like a bone or antler, any dental damage must be addressed promptly.Read on to learn how to prioritize your dog’s dental health, including identifying if they may be suffering from a broken or chipped tooth, how to address dental damage and tips for preventing a broken tooth before it happens. Your pup will thank you!Common Signs of a Broken or Chipped ToothThe first step to caring for dental problems is to identify that your dog is experiencing an issue. The signs of dental problems vary considerably. While some dogs won’t show any discomfort, others may demonstrate considerable pain. This is due not only to the difference in a dog’s personality and pain threshold but also the spectrum of injuries that fall under the heading of “dental problems.”Broken teeth can be categorized into three groups:Enamel Fractures: Damage only to the enamel of the tooth.Crown Fractures: Damage extends deeper into the tooth, breaking the crown and exposing the pulp.Root Fractures: The root of the tooth has been broken.Unless you inspect your dog’s teeth regularly and spot a problem, we often have to rely on body language and behavioral changes to know there’s a problem. Unfortunately, dogs are very good at hiding pain, so they may be suffering from a problem for a while before we’re aware that there is an issue.Some of the more common signs of a broken or chipped tooth include:Excessive droolingBloody salivaPawing at their muzzleChewing on one side of the mouthReluctancy to eat and kibble or harder-to-chew itemsRefusal to eat at allAvoiding drinking cold waterGrinding teethSwelling in the faceDiscomfort or reluctance to have muzzle touchedWhining or whimpering Not playing as they would normally Sudden or out-of-character aggressive or anxious behaviorTrembling or shaking

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How Do I Know if My Dog is Afraid?

Experts often talk about the importance of reading your dog’s body language to reduce fear, stress, and anxiety. But do you sometimes struggle to identify if your dog is really scared or if you’re just reading into a situation? Many common dog behaviors can be misinterpreted – fear or calm, comfort or stress. If this sounds familiar, don’t worry. We are here to help! This post dives deep into the basics of canine communication and body language. We’ll highlight some of the more subtle body language cues, behavioral changes, and vocalization that you should be looking out for. Plus, we’ll look at the most common situations that trigger fear in dogs, why these situations can be frightening, and how to comfort and support your dog moving forward. What’s the ultimate goal? Ensuring you have the information needed to build your dog’s confidence, improve your communication, and help them enjoy a world free from unnecessary fear and anxiety. Dedicate the time and energy today to set your dog up for long-term success (avoiding potential health complications from too much stress). Common Signs of Fear and Anxiety in Dogs Life as a pet parent would be much easier if our pups could speak up and tell us exactly what they think in each situation. Unfortunately, that’s not the reality we live in. Instead, we must learn to pick up on their non-verbal communication to build a strong and trusting relationship with our furry friends. Here are a few ways they may be trying to tell you that they are feeling “off” or nervous: Body Language One of the most important ways our pets communicate their feelings is through their body language. This includes the way they stand, the way they move, how they hold their ears or their tail, and so much more. Some signs will be obvious, while others will be more subtle. Here are some of the more common signs of fear and stress related to body language: Excessive panting YawningShowing teethLip-licking Puckering of the lips Whale eyes (showing the whites of the eyes)Large, dilated pupils Ears backward or pressed forward Tail up and stiff or down tucked between the legsCowering or standing with the body low to the ground Attempting to hide Displacement behaviors (sneezing, itching)Shaking or trembling Submissive urination Behavior Changes In addition to changes in how your dog stands or positions their body, you may notice some behavioral changes. You may find that your dog tries to back away or avoid their trigger. On the other hand, your dog may become reactive towards a trigger by jumping or lunging at it. Both these reactions signify stress or anxiety, highlighting the importance of getting to know your dog as an individual. For example, we have two male dogs in our house. When presented with a trigger, Lucifer will hold his ground while Indiana tends to back away or hide.You may also notice changes in how your dog reacts to objects or activities in their regular life. Many dogs, even those who are highly food-driven, will be reluctant to eat or take treats when stressed. Vocal Cues Finally, while we are focusing mainly on non-verbal communication, there are some vocalizations that could help you recognize that something is wrong. Dogs who are nervous, anxious, or afraid may bark at their trigger. They may also whine to show that they are uncomfortable.

Human-Cat Amputee Duo Teams Up To Help Others Through Animal Therapy

Juanita Mengel from Amanda, Ohio, and her five-year-old dilute tortoiseshell cat Lola-Pearl, make a unique therapy team. The 67-year-old Mengel is missing a leg, and her fluffy feline is missing a left hind leg. This special duo is one of an estimated 200 therapy cat teams registered in the US through Pet Partners. This nonprofit organization puts together owners and their pets as volunteer teams. They aim to provide animal-assisted therapy in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. “A therapy animal is an animal who’s been assessed based on their ability to meet new people and not just tolerate the interaction but actively enjoy it,” said Taylor Chastain Griffin, the national director of animal-assisted interventions advancement at Pet Partners. This organization registered nine different species of animals as therapy animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, birds, horses, mini pigs, alpacas, and lamas. Therapy cats are less common than therapy dogs, and people are often surprised to see cats in this role. However, Griffin studies the impact of therapy cats and emphasizes the importance of cats in therapy teams. There’s a lot of research on other therapy animals, especially dogs, so there is often a ‘shock factor’ associated with therapy cats because many people don’t know these felines exist. “They go into a setting and people are like ‘Whoa, there’s a cat on a leash. What’s happening?’” said Griffin. According to her, cats inspire people to connect to them in a way that’s not seen with other kinds of therapy animals. Juanita Mengel knew that her cat Lola-Pear would be an excellent therapy animal a month after she adopted her. The feline’s therapeutic potential became clear after Mengel took her to an amputee conference. “She was so good with people I just knew she would be a good therapy cat,” said Mengel. “People really were attracted to her, too.”During a recent limb loss support group, Mengel pushed Lola-Pearl around in a cat stroller labeled “Therapy Cat’, so participants could pet the cat as she woke from a nap. When she wasn’t sitting in a stroller, Lola-Pearl could be found brushing against participants’ legs or cuddling in their laps, bringing a smile to the face of every person she decided was worthy of her company. “She’s very intuitive of people,” said Mengel.Although Lola-Pearl is very special, she isn’t the only cat Mengel owns. Mengel, who lost her leg after years of surgeries following a near-fatal car accident, is a mom to seven cats, most of whom have disabilities. “They find you, you don’t find them,” she added.Lola-Pearl was only a few weeks old when she was found with her back legs completely twisted together. The kitten was unable to walk and was brought to Mengel’s friend at a shelter in Missouri. Unfortunately, the vets there couldn’t help the feline. The shelter located a specialist in Iowa who was able to splint Lola-Pearl’s legs in order to save them. However, it was clear that the left hind leg was beyond saving and the vets decided to amputate. Mengel adopted Lola-Pearl after she recovered from the surgery and they formed the unique therapy team. After everything Mengel has been through, she is extremely grateful for Lola-Pearl and appreciates all the good work they do together. “It’s a really rewarding experience,” she said. “I get just as much out of it as the people that I visit.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Auf Wiedersehen Wiener Dog - Will Germany Ban Dachshunds?

Germany’s beloved dog breed, the dachshund, could soon be banned under a new law that prohibits the breeding of dogs with “skeletal anomalies”.The draft of the bill, published in February, is currently being reviewed by the authorities and was introduced as a part of the Animal Protection Act. The new bill aims to strengthen existing laws on “torture breeding” and to regulate the online animal trade. The draft of the protection law said it could ban the reproduction of breeds prone to particular health problems, such as spinal problems linked with short legs and long back which are characteristic of the dachshund breed.According to the German Kennel Club (VDH), the bill could be interpreted as a ban on breeding dogs with any major size deviation from the original wolf type. In addition to dachshunds, other dog breeds like the German shepherd, miniature schnauzer, beagle, and Jack Russell terrier could be affected by the bill. The breeding restrictions could also be applied to flat-faced breeds like the English bulldog, pug, and French bulldog.“Some of the disease characteristics listed in the draft law are too vague and undefined,” said Leif Kopernik, the chief executive of the VDH. “Whether too small or too large, if the Animal Welfare Act were to be implemented in its current form, many popular and healthy breeds could be banned from breeding,” he said, according to the New York Times. The VDH has launched a petition to save “our favorite dogs” saying the proposed bill would leave too much room for interpretation in deciding what can be considered a genetic defect. The German Kennel Club agrees that many of the proposed changes, such as stricter regulations for online animal trade and taking action against illegal puppy trade are good measures that make sense. “However, the animal protection law contains requirements that could mean the end of many healthy dog breeds in Germany,” said VDH on its website.Although the proposed changes could affect several dog breeds, the dachshund is at the center of the discussion. Often called dackel by Germans, the dachshund has been the country’s national symbol for many years. The breed has been around for several centuries and was bred specifically for digging and clawing into underground dens to hunt for badgers. These sausage-shaped dogs have strong claws and sharp teeth which proved extremely useful when hunting. According to Sandra Karthauser, a breeder of rough-haired dachshunds from Munster, there is no evidence that dachshunds are sick due to their appearance. However, she admits that certain breed lines might be predisposed to herniated discs and other health issues.“But to ban the whole breed because of this, that doesn’t make sense to me. Then you can also ban Labradors because some suffer from hip dysplasia along with other breeds that might suffer from debilitating diseases and ailments,”  she added.Germany’s agricultural ministry refuted that the new bill would ban particular dog breeds, including the dachshund. “We aren’t seeking to ban the dachshund. What we are aiming at with this reform is a ban on torture breeding.”The goal of this new regulation is to forbid breeding practices that cause long-term suffering to the dogs. “We want to consistently protect animals from pain, suffering, and damage,” said the ministry adding that the new bill is still being reviewed. Germany’s dachshund lovers and breeders hope the breeding ban won’t happen now or in the future. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Research Suggests Longer Nosed Dogs Live Longer

Yes, the flat-faced pooches we know and love have not only myriad health issues but also shorter lives.

How Can I Prevent My Dog From Barking When They’re Home Alone?

Dogs are very affectionate beings, and can form incredible bonds with their owners – but this also means that they would love to be by their side at all times. Sometimes, however, this is just not possible. Their owners have to  work, go to the store, or finish chores out of home and they can’t always take their pets with them. And when you leave your pooch all by their lonesome, they often think it’s the end of the world – you’ve abandoned them for good, even when you’re away for like 25 minutes. This can result in anxiety, restlessness, and a lot of barking. Some dogs – in fact – just won’t stop barking or howling until you come back. How can you bring an end to this behavior, and prevent all the excess barking? And how can you let your pet know that leaving for a little bit is no big deal? Let’s find out. Battles with Barks: Why Dogs Bark When Alone and How to Stop ItExcessive barking when a dog is home alone can be a common issue for a lot of owners, and addressing it requires a combination of training, environmental management, and sometimes, the help of professionals. Above all, it requires patience. However, there are a number of factors that come into play when such situations occur. To make your dog calmer, quieter, and ready to accept your absence, you should take a closer look at the daily routine the two of you share.First, consider if you're providing enough physical and mental stimulation. Physical exercise is crucial for a dog's well-being. Keep in mind that a tired dog is generally a content and quieter dog. So, before you leave, make sure that they have ample exercise, fun, and outside time. If they “emptied their batteries”, they are more likely to remain calm and just snooze while you are out. Of course, to make sure you always fulfill these exercise requirements, you will have to establish a consistent daily routine. Just like humans, doggos too depend on the routine they can follow. This routine helps them feel secure and understand when to expect certain events like meals and walks. If they get used to a daily chain of events, they will expect you to leave and be okay with it.  Interactive toys that provide mental stimulation or dispense treats are also a great thing to utilize when battling anxiety or boredom-induced barking. They can help your dog stay occupied during your absence. As they get involved in playing with the toy, dogs will tire out, keep themselves busy, and not make such a big deal about your absence. With a toy, alone time can actually be enjoyable for a dog.

Dog Rescued After Surviving a 60-foot Fall from Michigan Cliff

A family’s trip to one of Michigan’s most beautiful landmarks almost ended tragically, when their dog took a tumble from a cliff. The adventurous dog, named Dancer, was rescued after surviving a 60-foot fall from a cliff and spending a freezing night alone in the wilderness. The three-year-old pooch had escaped her leash and plunged off a steep cliff near Miners Castle, in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore area in Munising, Michigan. The lakeshore runs alongside Lake Superior and is located in Michigan’s Upper Penninsula. The National Park Service (NPS) shared in a news release that Dancer fell 60 feet off a cliff to a ledge below. The dog’s owners spent hours searching the area but were unable to find the dog and were convinced that she didn’t survive the fall. Rangers at the nearby Pictured Rocks Park received a message about the lost pooch and decided to enlist the help of Superior High Angle Rescue Professionals (SHARP), a local rope rescue team, to search for the dog. The following morning SHARP members Erik Olsen, Westley Shaffer, and Tyler Davis went to the area and were able to find Dancer, who was cold, but alive. “Though she has spent the night trying to keep warm, she was excited to see the rescuers,” the service wrote. Dancer, who was described as a “professional troublemaker” didn’t have any reported injuries. The lucky pooch has since been reunited with her family and is recovering well after spending the night alone in the wilderness. The park service noted that Dancer was extremely lucky and although her story has a happy ending, her fall should serve as a reminder to everyone that areas of Pictured Rocks can get very cold and extremely slippery.“With this year’s mild start to winter, many areas of Pictured Rocks are more accessible than they are most years,” Chief Ranger Joe Hughes explained. “It is still important to remember to be prepared for slippery, cold conditions that can change quickly.”Whether you’re planning to hit a local trail with your pooch or are planning a trip to a state park, keep your pooch on a leash. Make sure that your pup’s harness is fitted properly so that your pooch can’t wiggle out of it, even if it tries. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Study Finds Pet Parents Care More About Their Dogs Than Their Cats

Pet parents tend to place themselves into one of two categories. You can either be a dog person or a cat person - there’s nothing in between. This may come as a shock to all cat lovers, but scientists have found that dog owners care more for their dogs than cat owners care for their cats. At least that’s the case with pet owners across Denmark, Austria, and the United Kingdom.Although these findings have been observed in older studies, veterinary scientists from the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, wanted to find out whether cultural factors had any effect on the results. Their results were first published in the Journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science. “We and others have found that people are willing to spend much less on their cats than on their dogs,” said Peter Sandøe, professor at the University of Copenhagen and the study’s lead author. “We wanted to find out whether cats could eventually end up having the same high status as dogs do today.”The scientists surveyed 2,117 pet owners, including 844 dog owners, 872 cat owners, and 401 owners who owned both cats and dogs. Participants were asked questions about their pets’ health insurance, their willingness to pay for life-saving medical treatment, and other questions designed to determine how much owners care for their pets. Pet owners from all three countries had a higher attachment score for dogs than for cats. Dog owners were more likely to buy insurance for their dogs, and said they were willing to spend more for life-saving treatment for their dogs. However, the results of the study varied greatly across the countries. The differences were most noticeable in Denmark, where 41% of dog owners said they were willing to pay a high cost of life-saving medical treatment for their dogs compared to 26% of cat owners. On the other hand, the United Kingdom’s results were in favor of dogs, but only slightly. Around 34% of dog owners in the UK said they would pay more for their dogs’ medical treatment compared to 28% of cat owners. According to scientists, such a slight difference isn’t statistically significant. ‘While people care more about their dogs than their cats in all countries, the degree of difference varied dramatically between countries,” said Sandøe. The researchers originally hypothesized that people in Denmark might be more unaccustomed with cats living indoors than people living in Austria and the United Kingdom since Denmark became urbanized much later than these two countries. Thanks to a much more recent rural history, cats in Denmark might be seen as just another farm animal.According to researchers, several studies hypothesize that when cats are more likely to spend time indoors, they tend to become much closer to their owners, who consequently care more about them. This was confirmed by studies in the U.S. and Mexico, where many cats are indoors-only felines.So it comes as no surprise that in Denmark, where just one out of five cats is kept strictly indoors and many have outdoor access, most pet owners care less about cats. Researchers think that pet owners’ level of care for their pets may depend on the level of interaction and dependence, as well as other factors. "There seems to be no natural limit to how much people will end up caring about their cats compared to their dogs,” said Sandøe. “The British are often portrayed as a nation of cat lovers, which is certainly confirmed by our study. The Danes have a long way to go, but they may eventually get there.”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.

The Latest Pet Industry Trends from Global Pet Expo 2024

On March 20-22, 2024, pet industry professionals from across the globe gathered at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, for the Global Pet Expo. Presented by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) and the Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA), the exhibit floor showcased 1,100+ companies, including 300 first-time exhibitors. This included 1,000+ product launches, the latest pet industry news, a packed New Products Showcase, and more! But what did we discover while attending the show? Here are some of the hottest trends in the industry, as seen at this year’s show: Mind the BudgetIn the last decade, we have seen a growing interest in spoiling our pets regardless of the cost. However, following the events of 2020, many pet parents are feeling the pinch that is society’s current financial state. So, how do we reconcile the two? Many brands came into this year’s show with a focus on providing high-quality pet care with a budget-friendly mindset. This included two distinct approaches. Some companies focused on finding ways to keep the price point low. This included changes to production, simplified designs, and sourcing quality supplies at a fraction of the cost. They then transferred these savings directly to the consumer, allowing you to spoil your pets without breaking the bank. The other trend we saw was to create premium products that, while requiring an upfront investment, are designed to last for years to come. By not having to replace them repeatedly, you will save money over the product's lifespan. Overall, we were excited to see so many ways pet parents can improve their pet’s quality of life, even when finances are tight. Sustainability for the Future A growing understanding of the impact of our pets on the environment has put pressure on the pet industry to find ways to prioritize sustainability. Some experts say that caring for a medium-sized dog can have a similar carbon footprint to driving a large SUV. How do we address this without giving up our pets? We saw several brands rising to the challenge! There was a growing number of companies creating adorable and functional toys from recycled materials. Snugarooz had a wide assortment of brightly colored, crinkly, and squeaky plush toys made from recycled water bottles. WestPaw added more products to their popular Seaflex line of 100% recyclable toys made with recycled ocean-bound plastic. We also saw a focus on sustainability in pet food and treats. One company that really stood out was Arch Pet Food. The company previously demonstrated their commitment to eco-friendly pet ownership by introducing alternative proteins in their food and treats. One product that we found very impressive was the Dehydrated Copi treats, made from an invasive species in our waterways. Other shifts towards sustainability included changes in packaging to reduce unnecessary plastics, the use of hemp-based bedding for small animals, and more sustainable decisions being made during production.

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