Which Member Of The Paw Patrol Is Right For Your Family?

by Lori Ennis

April 25th, 2019 12:00 AM

which member of the paw patrol is right for your family

The Paw Patrol are a charming group of dogs led by a noble and steadfast German Shepherd named Chase, and since 2013, they’ve rescued their way into the hearts of many. Just who is on the Paw Patrol, and what breeds inspired such a band of champions?

Paaaaw Patrollll. Go on. Admit it. You know you just sang that as you read it, didn’t you? Well, odds are you sang it if you’re familiar with The Paw Patrol, a Canadian CGI-animated television show that debuted in August of 2013. It’s a favorite Nickelodeon show, and children (and children at heart and dog lovers and just about anyone who loves a good rescue story) can’t get enough of the kind-hearted, good-doing group of furry friends who are on the case regularly.

Who makes up the Paw Patrol, and what are the breeds behind the characters really like? We’ve got the scoop!

Chase Is On The Case

Chase is a loyal German Shepherd and the most leader-like of the Paw Patrol Pack. He’s a police and spy dog who cruises around in a police-like car and lets Ryder, the human boy leader of the Paw Patrol know that they are always ready for action. Much like his real-life breed, he’s an athletic leader who likes to protect and serve, and likes to take charge (or, take the case, as he says in every episode). He takes his patrol job seriously, though as most German Shepherds do, enjoys being playful and puppy-like when just hanging around family and friends.

While Chase takes his missions to heart, he tries to do so very logically and analytically, but the loving and loyal heart he has seems to peek through in each show. His best friend is Marshall, though he often gets frustrated with Marshall’s bumbling but well-intended antics. Chase is often thought to be the ‘face’ of the Paw Patrol.

If you’re thinking about a German Shepherd, here’s what you need to know:

They’re smart, hard-working, loyal and highly-motivated dogs. They are working dogs, and often do best if they have a job. They’ll make their job protecting you–so watch out to all those squirrels running carelessly in your front yard. They require a good amount of exercise and mental stimulation, so you should also consider some stimulating toys and activities to keep them busy. Did we mention their love bugs? Because they are, so get ready to lose personal space. (Lurin-Shutterstock/Nickelodeon)

Marshall Is Good

Marshall is an adorable Dalmatian puppy and serves as the team’s fire and medic pup. As a fire pup, he’ll look for and put fires out, and he’ll use his ladder in the proverbial ‘rescuing kitties from the tree’ way in many episodes. He also is a medic who checks rescue victims for injuries and broken bones, and while he’s a bit enthusiastic in the bandaging, he’s skilled in tending to injuries of those he helps.

He’s hilariously silly and pretty clumsy for a first responder, and even though he gets himself into some accidents himself, he’s committed to being a part of the team and howls in excitement as they move from mission to mission. As he says, he’s always, “Fired Up!” even though he often gets himself into situations where he reassures fans he’s ‘good’!

If you’re thinking about a Dalmatian, here’s what you need to know:

They’re active, friendly dogs who can get into a bit of mischief if they’re not given constant training and stimulation. They’re incredibly alert and may even turn into the best barkers you’ve ever heard. In fact, it’s quite likely they will. While they’re great with older kids, they sometimes have issues with fear-aggression, so early socialization is a must, and it’s something to consider when thinking about having one in the home with smaller children. Also, some Dalmatians have too much protein in their blood and suffer from uric acid, so your vet may recommend a specialized diet. (Dora Zett-Shutterstock/Nickelodeon)

Rubble Knows How To Build It Up

Rubble is an English Bulldog who makes everyone laugh. Just as English Bulldogs are dependable and predictable, Rubble is always counted on to help out. Even though he seems a bit gruff and tough at first glance, he’s the typical love-bug English Bulldog. He has a soft spot for little animals, particularly kittens, and as he is the youngest of the Paw Patrol, he’s the most playful pup.

He loves to get down and dirty in his bulldozer-type vehicle helping out with building and tearing down to rescue, but he also likes getting dirty because he wants to jump into the bath and splash away!

Rubble is unique in that he was initially rescued as a stray himself. Chase saved him from the ocean and Rubble decided he’d sneak off with Chase on the next mission he went on. He proved himself valuable and Ryder declared his new home was to be with the Paw Patrol as the Construction Pup.

If you’re thinking about an English Bulldog, here’s what you need to know:

Bulldogs are loyal, fun-loving and friendly, but know that puppies can be independent and stubborn, so consistent training and reinforcement is essential. They’re natural problem solvers, and they love their families–especially their kids. That said, because they can be a bit dominating unless a firm pack order is established, you’ll want to let that sweet wrinkly face know where its place is early on so they feel secure.

They’re not great swimmers, so they won’t be your lakeside companions, and they really are sensitive to heat so you’ll want to make sure they’re cool and comfortable. Mats like these are perfect. (chrisatpps-Shutterstock/Nickelodeon)

Skye By The Seat Of Her Fur

Skye is the first female member of the Paw Patrol and is a Cockapoo. She’s also a pilot, using her helicopter’s grappling hook and piloting skills to save people and get her team members where they need to be to save others. She is smart and graceful, full of cheer and sunshine and always adding a bit of flair to whatever she does.

If you are considering a Cockapoo, here’s what you should know:

The Cockapoo was the first designer dog, crossing a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle in the 1960s. They’re smart and snuggly, but they can also be a bit mischievous if they’re not engaged. The poodle in them makes them great hunters, believe it or not, though more find them to be sweet and loving companion pets. They’re very social and a nice mix of medium-energy levels. (christpps-Shutterstock/Nickelodeon)

Rocky Reduces, Recycles, Reuses and Rescues

Rocky is a mixed-breed pup. He’s thought to be a Terrier mix and he’s a fantastic tinkerer. He’s a true ‘green’ pup, reducing and recycling and reusing things to fix them and repair issues that bring the town potential harm.

His pup pack always seems to be like MacGyver’s–full of resources and he’s full of ideas to use whatever he can to have less waste in the world. He’s not a fan of the water and prefers his recycling truck in truck form, even though it can turn into a tugboat if it has to save someone. Just don’t try getting him into the bath, because he won’t do it.

If you’re thinking about a mixed-breed, here’s what you’ll want to know:

There’s no real way to know much of anything about a mixed-breed unless you’re sure of the breed mixes, but even then, each dog is unique. Experts believe mixed-breeds tend to be healthier with regard to cancers and other inheritable diseases as those issues are ‘bred out’ and mixed-breeds often offer the best of all the breeds with which they’re mixed. (Susan Schmitz–Shutterstock/Nickelodeon)

Zuma Tackles The Water

Whereas Rocky hates the water to the point he won’t take a bath, Zuma is the opposite. He loves the water and this sweet Chocolate Labrador pup’s main job is to rescue sea animals. He’s not often featured, but it’s no wonder fans love him–he’s a Lab after all!

He ‘zooms’ around in a hovercraft that turns into a submarine and he loves to surf and laugh with his patrol buddies. Just like labs tend to do, he’s always ready for whatever adventure and rescue is waiting, though he’s not always the most serious when it comes to doing his duty. He’s loyal and loves helping Ryder, though, just like a good Lab does.

If you’re thinking about a Chocolate Lab, here’s what you need to know:

Labrador Retrievers are America’s most popular dog and have been for 28 years in a row. They’re loyal, loving, friendly and obedient and they basically want to enjoy every bit of the life they’re lucky enough to live. They make great family pets, but are better in active homes where they’ll get good energy and opportunities to use their brains, as at the core, they’re sporting breeds. They make excellent hunters and excellent water dogs as well. (Jagodka–Shutterstock/Nickelodeon)

Everest Tackles The Peaks

Everest is a Siberian Husky pup who helps clear snow from the roads in emergencies and she’s a pro at using her grappling hook to help rescues happen. She’s the oldest ‘pup’ of the Patrol, and her Husky determination and persistence are what saves people who are struck with snow emergencies. Ryder brought her onto the patrol for her wisdom, enthusiasm and commitment and she has a lot of energy, just like her real-life Husky counterparts. She doesn’t stay with the Paw Patrol full time, but is always ready when her assistance is needed.

If you’re thinking about a Siberian Husky, here’s what you should know:

Huskies are often called ‘Houdinis’ because if they are under-exercised or bored, they’ll wander. And we’re talking a lot! They’re gentle, friendly and affectionate, and they like to have jobs because those brains are always thinking. They shed a lot and need daily grooming (truly, daily) and they were bred for colder climates, so they tend to do better in cooler climates as well with those heavy coats. (Gillmar–Shutterstock/Nickelodeon)

Tracker Tames The Jungle

Like Everest, Tracker stays with his ‘boy,’ Carlos as they live in the jungle. The feisty little Chihuahua rides around in a jeep and he uses his great hearing to help rescue those in danger. He’s not a fan of dark places, but because he values saving people, he bravely faces them (even if with hesitation) and he uses his grappling hooks and multi-tools to get people out of tricky situations. He’s bilingual and brings some spunk to the team.

If you’re thinking about a Chihuahua, here’s what you should know:

While they’re adorable and ‘kid-sized’ they’re not necessarily the best with kids. They’re big personalities in little bodies, and while they’re endearing and loyal, they’re also prone to nipping and can be high-strung–not necessarily the pet for the neighborhood kids to gather around. They are very protective too, so while it’s nice to have that enduring loyalty, it can be bothersome if others want to be near and dear. They’re great for those looking for companionship with a smart and spunky friend. (Csanad Kiss-Shutterstock/Nickelodeon)

Lori Ennis

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How Do Dog Insurance Companies Check for Pre-existing Conditions?

With the costs of veterinary procedures and services only going up, more and more pet parents are looking into pet insurance to help soften the blow on the budget in case of emergencies or unexpected illnesses. But what about coverage for dogs with pre-existing conditions? Can you insure your dog for an illness or health issue that they had before the policy came into effect? Here’s what to know about pre-existing conditions and dog insurance, from what is considered as such to how dog insurance companies check for pre-existing conditions.What is Considered Pre-existing Condition In Terms of Dog Insurance?Any illness or health issue that has occurred before the set waiting period passes is considered a pre-existing condition. The waiting period is usually up to two weeks for most dog insurances, so if something happens to your pet in that time period, it won’t be included in the coverage. The same goes for conditions that they’ve had for weeks, months, or years prior to being insured, as these won’t be included in the coverage either. Still, it’s important to read your specific policy, as each dog insurance company can have a different definition of a pre-existing condition. How Do Dog Insurance Companies Check for Pre-existing Conditions?To identify any potential pre-existing condition, dog insurance companies will require your pet’s medical history, including records from your vet, and some might even require a full medical exam to determine your pet’s health status. They will check not only for an official diagnosis but also for symptoms that could be a clear indicator of a developing disease. Needless to say, pre-existing conditions are not something you can hide from a dog insurance company.It’s also worth noting that pre-existing conditions can be considered curable or chronic, and they are treated differently by dog insurance companies. If your pet had a health issue that is considered to be curable, e.g. ear infection, and it has passed at least 6 to 12 months (depending on the company’s policy) since the symptoms occurred, the condition will be considered cured and will be covered by your pet’s policy. Unfortunately, there usually is no coverage for diseases classified as chronic or uncurable (diabetes, cancer, allergies, arthritis, etc) that have developed prior to your dog being insured.Do Pre-existing Conditions Affect the Monthly Premium Costs of Dog Insurance? Pre-existing conditions do not affect the monthly premium costs of dog insurance directly – they are simply excluded from the coverage. Let’s say your pet has asthma: it won’t make their premium higher, but any health issue that arises and is related to their asthma won’t be eligible for reimbursement from the insurance company. Of course, this means that the sooner you insure your pet, the better deal you’ll get. Insuring a puppy doesn’t just come at a lower premium, but it also ensures that any future conditions will be included in the coverage. If you wait until your pet starts showing symptoms or develops a health issue before considering insurance, you’ll miss the opportunity for the dog insurance company to cover the costs of treatment – which can be quite a lot, especially if the issue is chronic.

Top 10 Best Breeds to Take RV’ing

However, none of the above means that all dogs are suited to RV travel. And the difference between camping and RVing is that while one centers around a few hours of travel followed by several nights at a site, the other is long-haul travel with few breaks and in relatively confined quarters.While any breed can be packed up and taken “on the road”, not all enjoy the process nor are they physically suited for this style of travel. Which leads to this. Before you invest in that great big motorhome, you may want to consider whether it’s the right fit for your four-legged family member/s. Conversely, if the open road is calling and you’re thinking the only thing that could make it perfect would be a pooch riding shotgun (true, by the way), then check out our list below. Because if you want to know which breeds do the RV thing best, we’ve come up with a shortlist of the top 10 (in no particular order).

Top Proteins - Which Protein is Best for Your Dog

Main Types of Protein In Dog Food: Pros and ConsProtein in pet food can be either animal-based or plant-based. Animal-based protein comes from meat, either muscle meat or organs, as well as meat meal, which is also rich in glucosamine and chondroitin to promote joint health. When it comes to plant-based proteins, in dog food, they usually come from legumes and grains, such as peas, lentils, chickpeas, or soy, to name a few.Naturally, animal-based protein is much better for dogs as it contains other essential nutrients as well, and it is easy to digest – dogs have evolved to digest animal protein with ease and to get crucial nutrients from meat, organs, eggs, etc. On the other hand, dogs may not digest plant-based protein as well and it can be considered an inferior source of protein for canines.What Protein Is Best for My DogAlthough we’ve already covered that animal-based protein is generally the superior protein source in dog food, it still doesn’t narrow the list down. Is it eggs, liver, chicken, turkey, beef, salmon…? The most common protein sources in pet food are beef, chicken, and fish, and there are varieties there, as well – it’s better to opt for cage-free chicken or grass-fed beef, wild-caught salmon, and other quality types of real meat rather than a vague description of meat source. While most dogs will enjoy any of the three popular protein options, beef and chicken also happen to be one of the most common culprits for dogs with food sensitivities, so you might want to opt for a novel protein (Bison, Elk, Alligator, Kangaroo, Beaver) in that case.

Spinach and Zucchini Dog Treat Recipe

There will be no upturned snouts when you give your pupper this Spinach and Zucchini dog treat. On top of being delicious, these veggies are packed with goodness. Zucchini is full of antioxidants, which are plant compounds that help protect from free radicals (these can damage your dog’s cells and DNA and speed up the aging process). And spinach boosts the immune system, increases energy levels, and prevents some types of cancer - not bad for a leafy green! Plus, this dog treat recipe includes pureed pumpkin and carrot, to give your cookies a little more bang for their buck.Ingredients:1 zucchini, peeled and shredded1 cup spinach, chopped1 carrot, peeled and shredded1 cup pumpkin puree1/4 cup peanut butter2 large eggs1/2 cup rolled oats3 cups whole wheat flourDirections:1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.2. In a large bowl, add pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and eggs. Use an electric mixer on medium-high until well combined, about 1-2 minutes.3. Gradually add oats and 2 1/2 cups flour at low speed, beating until incorporated. Add an additional 1/4 cup flour at a time just until the dough is no longer sticky.4. Add carrot, zucchini, and spinach, beating just until incorporated.5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough until it comes together. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Using cookie cutters, cut out shapes and place onto prepared baking sheet.6. Place in oven and bake until the edges are golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.7. Place treats on cooling racks for 2-3 hours.8. Place in airtight container and store in fridge or freezer.

Wonder How Much Lifetime Care for Pets Costs? Here Are the Numbers

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GI Stasis In Rabbits: Symptoms, Causes, and How To Prevent It

Even though they are beloved as family pets all across the world, rabbits will undoubtedly present a few challenges for all owners – just like all pets do. And when these challenges present themselves, you need to be ready and well-informed, in order to tackle them quickly and efficiently. One of these challenges that your rabbit can potentially come across in their life is GI stasis, better known as gastrointestinal stasis. Somewhat common in rabbits, and potentially quite dangerous, GI stasis occurs when the digestive system slows down or stops completely. When this happens, bacteria and gasses are released and cause bloating. If left untreated, this condition can quickly deteriorate your rabbit’s health, causing them to starve and dehydrate, and potentially lead to their death. Needless to say, it’s a condition that should be taken seriously – from keeping an eye out for symptoms to taking all necessary steps to prevent it.Symptoms of GI Stasis in RabbitsAs a bunny owner, you will have to know exactly what to look for as clear indications of GI stasis. One of the common indicators is the loss of appetite. This can appear all of a sudden, or gradually over a period of time. Eventually, you might even notice the complete lack of poop or some sort of abnormality of the same – such as soft stool or diarrhea instead of round pellets. Still, the most obvious symptom is the complete lack of movements from your bunny: this is the lethargy that occurs because of starvation and dehydration which are a direct result of gastrointestinal stasis. It can also instigate teeth grinding, a sign that your rabbit is in pain and discomfort.What Causes GI Stasis?Rabbits are gentle beings, and their delicate nature might require some special care on a day-to-day basis. Neglect some of the crucial parts, and your bunny might become ill. A common cause of GI Stasis is a bad diet. If it contains too many carbohydrates (carbs for short), or too few digestible fibers, the condition can begin to form. This diet is formed when a bunny eats way too many commercial pellets – which are full of carbs – and too little hay, which is the main source of fiber for rabbits. A diet optimally rich in fiber should mean that at least 70% of what your bunny consumes in a day is hay.Other causes of GI stasis are painful conditions that affect the teeth, such as malocclusion, and in turn, prevent the rabbit from eating properly. With the loss of appetite, the digestive system slows down. General loss of appetite is another cause, and it can occur when the rabbit is too stressed, scared, overheated, in pain, dehydrated, and so on. How You Can Prevent GI Stasis in RabbitsIn order to prevent GI stasis in your pet rabbit, the foremost thing to do is balance their diet. It should contain plenty of high-fiber grass hay and some moisture-rich leafy greens. Supplement this with carbs-rich pellets, but only in small amounts. This will keep their gut flora in check and keep their digestive system in top form.Furthermore, make sure that your rabbit is not stressed in any way, whether it’s due to environmental or social and emotional causes. Keep your bunny healthy and happy by catering to their needs to avoid lethargy and loss of appetite, and you can be sure that gastrointestinal stasis won’t affect them.

Are Rabbits Good Pets for Children?

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

3 Common Cat Training Mistakes

Whether you want to stop your kitty from jumping on the kitchen counter or you want to train her to do tricks, the first thing to bear in mind is that training is a process that takes time. Avoiding some common cat training mistakes may help ensure your feline friend learns more quickly and easily. Here’s a list of some of the mistakes that pet parents make when training kittens and adult cats. Reacting Only to Negative BehaviorsIt’s understandable that, before your cat learns the rules, she’ll do things that you don’t want her to do, like claw at your carpet or jump on furniture she shouldn’t be on. But if you react too strongly to unwanted behaviors, you might actually end up slowing the training process, and your cat might even start to use negative behaviors as a way to get your attention. Instead, reinforce good behavior by praising your kitty and maybe even giving her a treat when you see her doing things like using the scratching post instead of your carpet. And if your pet does something you don’t want, stop yourself from reacting by shouting or being aggressive towards her. Rather, gently show her the desirable behavior and then give her a reward when she follows the rule. Using the Wrong Products and Methods Sure, there are cat training products on the market, but they aren’t always a good idea. Sometimes, all you need is something simple, such as double-sided tape that can teach a cat to stay off certain furniture. Remember, cats don’t respond well to negative training attempts. So, again, avoid yelling at your pet and definitely don’t hit her. These actions will only instill fear in your companion. And what about tactics like using a spray bottle? Well, they’ll probably scare your cat and likely won’t teach her anything. Also worth noting: when your cat scratches, jumps, and climbs, those are all natural behaviors that you shouldn’t inhibit. The goal is to find ways to let your cat be herself without damaging your belongings. For this, you can use pet products that will encourage your kitty to do what you want while giving her what she needs too. For example, if your cat likes to jump on a tall piece of furniture, she might just need a cat tree or she might enjoy climbing up wall perches to get to the highest spot in the house. As another example, if you got her a vertical scratching post but she doesn’t really use it, she might prefer a different style, such as a horizontal one. In other words, it might just be a matter of selecting the right products for your unique kitty. Being ImpatientFinally, training pets requires patience, and because each cat is one-of-a-kind, some might require more training than others. Take your time, knowing that changes in behavior won’t happen overnight.

My Dog Has Fat Lumps - Do They Mean My Pet is Overweight?

What is a Fat Lump?It’s actually called a lipoma and it’s not uncommon to find one or more in dogs (or humans, for that matter). In a nutshell, it’s a benign mass of fat cells that appear within the subcutaneous or inner layer of skin tissue. When pressed, you should feel it move around slightly. The good news is that these slow-growing masses are not painful for your pooch unless they start appearing in areas such as his armpit or shoulder blade, where they can rub as he walks or press against a harness.In rare instances, you may be dealing with what’s called an infiltrative lipoma where the lump begins to grow into your dog’s muscle and other tissues. These can lead to discomfort as they increase in size and may require surgical removal.Fat lump masses can appear suddenly and present on your pooch’s belly, back, legs or underarms. It’s also not uncommon for older dogs to have multiple fat lumps. And while certain breeds seem more predisposed to fat lumps including Labrador Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, and Doberman Pinschers (to name a few) any breed or mixed breed can get them. While weight and hormones do appear to be contributing factors, certain environmental factors have also been named as potential culprits.What Causes a Fat Lump?Older dogs are more inclined to have fat lumps and while the reason for this may simply be down to a drop in activity levels with a resultant weight gain, research is starting to suggest there could be other culprits at play. These include:· Direct sun-to-skin exposure (an issue for breeds with thin, single coats)· Genetics (hence the breed-specific reference)· Chemical exposure (see more below)With chemical exposure it’s your pet’s endocrine and immune systems being impacted. What these systems do is gather any unwanted or unhealthy materials in the body and attempt to excrete them out through the largest organ in the body – the skin surface. What’s being suggested is that these fat lumps are in fact, your pet’s body trying to sluff off stuff it can’t process.What sort of “stuff” you might ask? Well, let’s take a look at where some of this “unhealthy” material may come from. Drugs: while it’s important to have your pet treated for rabies, Bordetella, fleas, ticks and other harmful and potentially life-threatening conditions, try to avoid having your pet over-exposed to unnecessary drugs and chemicals.Diet: today’s processed foods are loaded with artificial flavors, colors, preservatives and carbs that haven’t traditionally been part of an animal’s diet. When his body doesn’t recognize how to process these additives, it stores them as fat lumps. Chemicals: our lives are filled with chemicals. From paint, furnishings and carpets with high VOCs to walking across a lawn that’s been treated with pesticides. Your dog absorbs all of these chemicals by breathing them in or absorbing them through their pads.Diagnosis and TreatmentFat lumps are typically confirmed through a fine needle aspiration that allows your vet to check the cells and make a final diagnosis. While they can be removed surgically, this type of invasive treatment may not be recommended based on the age or health of your pet.While they don’t spread in the same manner as cancer, other lumps can appear in other locations on your pet. So, unless it’s causing him discomfort – such as rubbing against a harness or making it difficult to walk – the best treatment can often be to leave it alone.Note that they don’t go away but can shrink if your pet loses weight. The growth rate is slow however as with any mass, it makes sense to monitor it every few months for a change in shape or size that might suggest it’s becoming problematic.And before you assume that what you’re dealing with is simply a fat lump, have your veterinarian check it out to ensure it’s not an abscess that requires immediate treatment.

Why Enrichment Is Important for Rabbits and How to Provide It

It is no secret that rabbits make wonderful pets – they are fun, affectionate, and so sweet. However, when their needs are not properly met, these positive traits never come to the surface and your pet can instead display abnormal behavior such as aggression or apathy. As a responsible rabbit owner, you will need to provide environmental enrichment to your pet to make sure they thrive. Enrichment is a way to increase mental and physical stimulation, provide new daily activities, and make sure that your pet is enjoying their everyday routines. In turn, it keeps your bunny healthy and happy and keeps those negative behaviors at bay.What Is Rabbit Enrichment? Rabbits are intelligent animals, as well as sociable, and in the wild, they display various behaviors, habits, and quirks that are unique to their species. Rabbit enrichment is a way to recreate certain conditions and provide your pet with a safe and engaging environment that stimulates those natural behaviors, puts your rabbit at ease, and contributes to their emotional, mental, and physical well-being. Now, there are a number of ways to provide this enrichment and improve your pet’s quality of life – it’s up to you to find out which works best for your bunny’s needs.Best Ways to Provide Rabbit EnrichmentThe goal of rabbit enrichment is to improve your pet’s quality of life, and, quite literally, enrich it. Provide them with a number of daily activities that will stimulate their natural instincts and promote good behavior. Puzzles, toys, interactive gadgets, and makeshift burrows and tunnels will all entertain them and keep their brains working properly. Rabbits are very curious and intelligent animals, and this type of stimulation is very important in their daily lives. Another important part of enrichment for rabbits is socialization. Rabbits are very sociable and will need interaction on a daily level. Your company is great, of course, but won’t always be enough. Sometimes, rabbits require mates and friends of their own kind, and you might have to provide them. You can also introduce them to another owner’s rabbit, a kind and caring child, a gentle small doggo, and so on. Any form of new and friendly social interaction can really boost your rabbit’s mood and healthy development. A great lack of socialization can cause a string of abnormal behaviors, such as lethargy and violence, and in turn even health issues.The best way to provide proper enrichment to your pet is to build your own special rabbit enclosure that will be equipped with everything needed to provide stimulation. Let your imagination loose as you assemble a true bunny funhouse – a shelter with burrows to dig in, hideouts, nooks to be explored, toys, puzzles, hay to be nibbled, and anything else you might think of. ConclusionEvery rabbit owner should provide enrichment for their pet to stimulate their natural instincts and behaviors, and ensure their mental and physical wellbeing. Whether it’s rabbit toys, hideouts, burrows, or the company of another rabbit – it will depend on your preferences and your pet’s needs.Remember that routine is important in all pets’ lives – rabbit’s too. Knowing that fun times are just around the corner each day will make your rabbit a fun, inquisitive, sociable, and loveable pet to have. A big no-no in rabbit care is lack of enrichment. Keep your pet alone, neglected, or cooped up, and they can become bored, angry, lethargic, and in the end, depressed.

Adoptable Dog of the Week - Marvin

Sweet, cuddly, and effortlessly adorable, this charming fella will knock you off your feet! Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Marvin, a 1.5 years old Golden Chinese Shar-Pei, or in other words – a mix between a Golden Retriever and a Shar Pei breed. He even has that trademark blue-black spotted tongue of a Shar Pei! This cutie pie is currently in a shelter in Valley Falls, Kansas, and he is neutered, microchipped, and up to date on his vaccinations. Marvin is a kind-hearted guy that gets along great with other dogs and can be a great companion for families with children.Marvin’s Tale Marvin has been waiting for the right people to come for some time now – but through no fault of his own! He’s a big guy but he has an even bigger heart, and he’s the friendliest dog you’ll ever meet – he has such a loveable personality, and adores getting cuddles and being showered with love. Of course, in return, you’ll get a bunch of pooch smooches and snuggles every day! Marvin is also a high-energy dog that will need regular walks and exercise to burn off his extra energy, so he’d love an owner with an active lifestyle that is looking for a four-legged companion for their adventures.As a friendly, sweet dog, Marvin does well with other canines, too, especially if they are as friendly and nice as he is – but it would be best to do a meet and greet if you already have a pet just to see if their personalities hit it off. He also likes kids and does well both with teenagers and children under the age of 10, but have in mind that he is a large breed dog with a lot of energy so very young and small kiddos might not be the best match – he might accidentally knock them over during playtime.If Marvin sounds like the perfect pet for your family, contact Jefferson County Humane Society Inc to learn more about him and the adoption process.

New Study Reveals Most US Dog Owners Fail to Follow Pet Food Handling

In the study, Dr. Luisana and her colleagues surveyed a total of 417 dog owners. They were asked questions relating to the FDA issued guidelines for safe pet food and dish handling as well as basic healthy and safety questions. In the survey, only 2/3 of dog owners reported that their dog’s food was prepared on a separate surface from where they prepare human food. Even more startling was the fact that only 1/3 of dog owners reported washing their hands after handling their dog’s food or dishes. Their study didn’t stop there… To better understand the potential risks of improper pet food and dish handling, the researchers focused their attention on testing 68 household dog food dishes. The participants of this part of the study were divided into three groups, each of which were given different instructions for how to handle and feed their dog’s food. After 1 week, the dishes were tested again for bacterial contamination and the results of the 3 groups were compared. The dog owners that were given the full FDA pet food handling guidelines to follow had dishes with significantly less contamination than those that failed to take the recommended precautions. Dr. Luisana and her colleagues don’t put all the blame on dog owners.

10 Most Popular Rabbit Breeds

If you’ve decided that a rabbit is a perfect pet for you or your family, you might be wondering which breed is the most compatible with your lifestyle and preferences. The world of rabbits is diverse, with 50 rabbit breeds recognized by ARBA and many more in development, so it might be difficult to narrow down your choice. Luckily, there are more than a few rabbit breeds that have consistently been the most popular choices, both for first-time owners and seasoned bunny parents, as they combine lovely looks with an even lovelier personality, making them a favorite choice for a pet rabbit for years – or decades– back. Take a look at our selection of the 10 most popular rabbit breeds for pets, and you might just meet your new best friend!

10 Best Rabbits for Beginners

If you're thinking about getting a pet rabbit but you’re not sure where to start, you should first consider which breed would be the best match for your lifestyle and preferences. Some bunnies are too big to be kept in an apartment, others are a bit too high-maintenance for a first-time owner, and some have a personality that won’t click with yours. That’s why it’s important to do your research and make sure that you’ll be able to properly care for the rabbit you pick and that you’ll enjoy their quirks and unique traits as well.To help you find the right companion for you, we’ve rounded up the 10 best rabbits for beginners, whose traits make them perfect for first-time owners. These rabbit breeds are relatively low-maintenance, tend to be friendly and sociable, intelligent and easy to train, so even a complete beginner could manage to train and socialize them with a bit of patience and effort.

Door Darting: How to Stop Your Cat From Getting Out

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

How Hill’s Science Diet Meets Your Pet’s Unique Needs

This is why many experts and parents alike opt for specialized formulas, such as the #1 veterinarian-recommended Hill’s Science Diet. This science-led nutrition for pets creates recipes as unique as your pet, specially made with a variety of common cat and dog health considerations in mind that affect both cats and dogs. And right now, you can get Hill’s Science Diet featured products for up to 15% off. Hill's® Science Diet® Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult Dry Dog Food

Adoptable Dog of the Week - Cammie

Sweet, loving, and eager to be someone’s best friend, this pooch is looking for her happy furever after! Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Cammie, an almost 2 years old Labrador Retriever mix from Montgomery, Alabama. She is spayed, microchipped, up to date on her vaccinations, and heartworm negative. Cammie is a friendly dog that gets along with other dogs and cats in the shelter and would fit in a multi-pet household. She hasn’t had a chance to be around kids, but thanks to her sweet demeanor, she would probably be great for families with children.Cammie’s TaleWhen Cammie’s family decided to move, they didn’t think that there would be enough space in the new apartment for her, so she ended up in the shelter, looking for a second chance to become a part of someone’s family. And considering her great personality and charm, it’s a shame that she’s still waiting for that special someone! Cammie is sweet, loving, and doesn’t need much to be happy. She will do perfectly fine with one or two long walks a day, and lots of cuddles and affection from her new humans. And hey, a walk or two a day would do you a world of good, too, so it’s a win-win situation!While in the shelter, Cammie has been tested both around dogs and cats and did splendidly. She is friendly and gets along great with other dogs, and even does well with cats, so sharing her new home with another pet shouldn’t be a problem. She hasn't had a chance to hang out with little kids yet, but as long as they are dog-savvy and respectful, there’s no reason why she wouldn't make a lovely pet for a family with children.If you want to learn more about Cammie and how you can adopt her, contact Montgomery Humane Society for more information.

How You And Your Dog Can Make The Most of The Summer Season

And there’s tons of fun stuff you can do with your dog this summer. Whether you’re checking out the best places for hiking with your dog, dusting off your Frisbee for some quality fetch sessions in the backyard, or maybe planning a camping trip to explore the great outdoors with your pet, you’ll need to make sure your dog is properly prepared for all the amazing summer adventures you’ll have! Save 35% off your first Autoship order + 5% on all future Auto Ship orders with your Treats Membership at PetSmart.com!Getting Ready for the Outdoor SeasonWhile warm weather and longer days might draw you and your pooch out instantly, you’ll have to keep in mind some important preparation for the start of the outdoor season. First, all kinds of insects also love great weather – so be sure to put tea, flick, and even mosquito protection on your pet. Be it a collar, a topical treatment, or an edible parasite treatment, choose something that will make sure your pet is safe from all kinds of blood-sucking parasites and dangerous illnesses that these pests can infect them with.

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