English Toy Spaniel

by Amy Tokic

Published: April 19th, 2013

About English Toy Spaniel

Weight

8-14 lb

Lifespan

10-12 years

Group

AKC Toy Group

Best Suited For

Families with older children, singles and seniors, apartments, houses with/without yards

Temperament

Quiet, gentle, devoted, stubborn

Comparable Breeds

Japanese Chin, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Height

10-11 inches

English Toy Spaniel Basics

A true lapdog, the English Toy Spaniel is dedicated to becoming the world’s best couch potato. This breed does like to play too but he prefers doing so on the living room carpet as opposed to outside in the dirt and grass. After all, the dirt and grass could make his beautiful, silky coat dirty! English Toy Spaniels love being spoiled and absolutely enjoy living in the lap of luxury. To them, luxury doesn’t have to be an English estate. It could very well be a small and cozy apartment providing the dog is with the people he loves.

Referred to as Charlies by breed enthusiasts, the English Toy Spaniel was a well-loved pet of many royal families. Both King Charles I and King Charles II favored this breed. In fact, this breed is actually called the King Charles Spaniel in England due to the royal’s affinity of them. It’s no wonder that they are nicknamed Charlies! For more information on the English Toy Spaniel, read on.

A true lapdog, the English Toy Spaniel is dedicated to becoming the world’s best couch potato.

Origin

Originating in the Far East centuries ago, the English Toy Spaniel made its way to England in the 16th century. This exotic pet was quite popular among the Royals of that era. The English Toy Spaniel was simply bred to be a well-loved lapdog and live a luxurious existence. Today, these spunky dogs still enjoy relaxing with their owners and living a comfortable life.

Pedigree

It is believe that the English Toy Spaniel is a descendant of some of the Asian breeds such as the Japanese Chin and the Pekingese. In the late 1600s, English Toy Spaniels were bred with Pugs, thus creating a dog with a shorter muzzle and smaller size. During the 1800s, the breed was still being crossed with various exotic short-muzzled dogs. This resulted in the apple-headed, short-muzzled dogs with prominent eyes that we know today.

Food/Diet

If there is one thing that English Toy Spaniels like to do, it’s eat. They love eating and would be happy to nosh all day. This isn’t healthy for them as they will become overweight. It is essential that the English Toy Spaniel be fed a high quality, dry food designed for less active, small dogs. Dry kibble will help prevent tooth decay and other oral health problems.

English Toy Spaniels are pretty bright dogs. They have a strong desire to please their owners however; they have a short attention span.

Training

English Toy Spaniels are pretty bright dogs. They have a strong desire to please their owners however; they have a short attention span. To keep this breed interested during training sessions, delectable treats are necessary. Charlies love tasty treats so this will keep him focused and be his reward for working hard during the session.

This breed makes a wonderful therapy dog. Their small size and love for riding in the car make traveling to hospitals and nursing home facilities easy. Patients enjoy allowing this cute little dog to sit on their laps while stroking their soft coats. Everybody feels better with an English Toy Spaniel around!

Weight

Weighing in at somewhere between 8 and 14 pounds, the English Toy Spaniel stands between 10 and 11 inches tall at the withers.

Temperament/Behavior

The English Toy Spaniel is an all-around, easy-going breed. Unlike many other spaniels, the Charlie isn’t big on barking. In fact, he rarely uses his voice. Of course, he will bark minimally when someone comes to the door. This is a very quiet breed that does well living in small apartments.

A generally cheerful and friendly breed, the Charlie will pick his favorite in the family and give most of his attention to him. He’ll still love and play with the other family members; he just has a preference for his favorite person. English Toy Spaniels bond for life. They don’t understand when people leave and they can become very upset. This breed does best with people who are at home most of the time.

English Toy Spaniels are fragile dogs. They can be harmed or killed by unsupervised kids. A child could simply be running and fall on the dog causing it to get hurt or die. Charlies can also nip at children if the kids are annoying the dog. It’s best for this breed to live with older, well-behaved children and adults.

Common Health Problems

There are numerous conditions for which the English Toy Spaniel is predisposed. Some of these health issues are vertebral disc disease, patellar luxation, congestive heart failure, mitral valve disease, hyaloid artery remnant disorder, glaucoma, distichia and retinal dysplasia. The breed is also prone to ear infections due to the droop ears they sport.

Life Expectancy

On the average, English Toy Spaniels live to be 10 to 12 years old.

Exercise Requirements

English Toy Spaniels are not fans of exercise. They would much rather chill on the couch than to chase a ball in the yard. Although this breed does not require a lot of activity, he does need some exercise to stay healthy and fit. Regular walks are important, but the occasional brisk trot will be beneficial to the Charlie. He might not like it; but it is needed.

This breed is easily enticed with tasty treats. Puzzle toys which hide a treat within tend to keep the English Toy Spaniel intrigued and active inside of the house. Those that have a fenced yard for the dog to play in will find that the Charlie’s playfulness will have him chasing balls and other toys around the yard. Though not the most energetic breed of dog, the English Toy Spaniel will happily spend time playing with kids. That is, until he becomes bored and needs a nap.

The English Toy Spaniel is an all-around, easy-going breed.

AKC

The American Kennel Club writes: “The English Toy Spaniel is a gentle, happy and playful loving breed that is naturally well-behaved and intelligent. They are good family companions and play well with children. Their small size makes them ideal for an apartment. All varieties of the English Toy Spaniel are easy-to-groom and require regular twice-weekly combing and brushing.” The English Toy Spaniel was first recognized by the AKC in 1886.

Coat

Those who enjoy spending time grooming their dogs will find the English Toy Spaniel to be perfect. This breed’s coat is long and profuse. Feathering covers the ears, legs, chest and body. The coat should be straight or moderately wavy but it should always be silky and glossy.

There are four colors and classifications with the English Toy Spaniel breed. Dogs with a mahogany red coloring are called the Ruby. Those with black, tan and white are called the Prince Charles. Black and tan coated dogs are called the King Charles. Dogs with a white body and red patches on the body as well as a red dot on the head are called the Blenheim.

Because of its profuse coat, daily brushing and combing is needed with a Charlie. Bathing is important to its overall health. The English Toy Spaniel should be bathed at least every other week. Without proper grooming, this breed can experience skin infections and flaking skin.

Puppies

Charlie puppies are absolutely adorable but they are extremely fragile. They can easily be killed by hugging them too tightly or even tripping and falling on them. Caution must be taken when living with puppies and adults of this breed. Early socialization is important for English Toy Spaniels to lead happy lives. Without it, they can become shy and fearful of strangers.

Amy Tokic

Amy Tokic, Editor of PetGuide.com, is a passionate animal lover and proud pet parent of Oscar, a Shih Tzu/Chihuahua cross, and Zed, a Japanese Chin. Her love of animals began in kindergarten, when she brought her stuffed dog Snoopy into class with her every day. Now, she writes about her adventures in pet ownership and tirelessly researches products, news and health related issues she can share with other animal enthusiasts. In her free time, Amy loves perusing used book and record stores, obsessing over the latest pet products available and chasing squirrels with wild abandon (a habit attributed to spending too much time with her pooches).

More by Amy Tokic

UK Firefighters Get No Thanks from Rescued Cat

View Article

English Toy Terrier

English Toy Terrier Basics When you see the English Toy Terrier, your first instinct might be to think that it is a Miniature Pinscher. After all, the breed does look similar in terms of its size and appearance. Additionally, the English Toy Terrier is a rare and vulnerable breed, so it is unlikely that you have ever seen one. Although it may be difficult to find, the English Toy Terrier is a great breed – it is smart and energetic while being loyal and affectionate with its owners. The English Toy Terrier is a rare dog breed that’s perfect for condos – if you can find one. Origin The English Toy Terrier was developed in England from a breed known as the Old English Black and Tan Terrier. This breed was developed for its speed and agility because it was used for rat pitting – this is a sport that involved placing a dog in a pit with rats and betting on how quickly the dog would kill them. When this sport was outlawed the English Toy Terrier came to be popular in the conformation show ring instead. Having an elegant appearance, this terrier breed was immediately successful. The Kennel Club recognized two varieties of the Black and Tan Terrier (as it was known at the time) until the 1920s when it split the breed by size into the Manchester Terrier and the Miniature Black and Tan Terrier. The name English Toy Terrier wasn’t adopted until the 1960s. In the United States, the breed is known as a toy version of the Standard Manchester Terrier. Pedigree

Top 10 Small Quiet Dog Breeds

SHHHHHH! Be vary, vary quwiet! We’re hunting for small quiet dog breeds (insert Elmer Fudd laugh here). We all know what it’s like to encounter a little dog with a big bark. It’s not good. In fact, it’s horrible. You might even say it’s one of of the worst atrocities that can ever be inflicted on the human ear. In fact, yappy dogs are so annoying that they’ve ruined the reputations of little dogs everywhere. Some people have even convinced themselves that all little dogs are yappy dogs. Thankfully, true dog lovers know that isn’t not the case. There are many types of small dogs out there and not just ones who are determined to rupture your eardrums. While some dogs certainly do love to hear the sound of their own bark, others are more of the strong and silent type. Despite the interminably yappy reputation of small dogs, there are many quiet breeds of small dogs. There are little sweetheart pups out there who can get your attention and affection without alerting the neighbours. They are worth seeking out. That’s why we’ve delivered this handy=dandy guide to our Top Ten Small Quiet Dogs. These are the quiet little bundles of furry joy that you’ve been seeking all of your life. Perfect for people who have to worry about noise complaints, these pooches will keep their barks to themselves…unless they have something important to tell you! So what are you waiting for?! Keep your eyes glued to this page to find the tiny and quiet little pupper of your dreams. 10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

English Springer Spaniel

English Springer Spaniel Basics When you think about the Spaniel breeds, perhaps no better breed comes to mind than that of the English Springer Spaniel. This is a classic hunting dog that is related closely to the English Cocker Spaniel and is not only a favorite at dog shows but around homes across the world. As a friendly, loyal breed that is known for obedience and a general friendliness toward strangers, the English Springer Spaniel can make an ideal pet for both you and your family. But it takes much more than that to make a great companion: does the English Springer Spaniel really have those intangible qualities? We think you’ll find that they do. As a classic hunting and retrieval dog in the “gun dog” group, the English Springer Spaniel is versatile enough to be friendly around the home and obedient enough to make a great outdoor dog. Whether the English Springer Spaniel is the right breed for you and your family remains to be seen, but you’ll find that in terms of temperament and loyalty, the English Springer can be difficult to beat. A friendly, loyal breed that is known for obedience and a general friendliness toward strangers. Origin You don’t earn a name like the English Springer Spaniel unless you’ve got some good roots in jolly old England, and you’ll find that the history of the English Springer is closely intertwined with other similar English dog breeds. While the Spaniel itself has been around for several hundred years, the diversification and classification of the different Spaniel breeds has taken a bit longer. During the 1800s, when many dog breeds were both being developed and classified, the Spaniel breeds began splitting up as well. It wasn’t unusual for these Spaniels to take on the name of the place they were developed. By around 1910, the English Springer had finally reached a level meriting a classification of its own in the United States and the breed was soon born. But in England, this breed was already well-known, as the classification had endured since 1902. Today, we associate this excited breed as a classic of the Spaniel class, but in truth the English Springer Spaniel is a refreshing update of a classic breed.

English Cocker Spaniel

English Cocker Spaniel Basics No, this isn’t a Cocker Spaniel with a posh accent – the English Cocker Spaniel is a breed of its own. Popular for many reasons, the English Cocker Spaniel makes a great house pet. A compact dog, this breed is hardy and sturdy, and you’ll soon find that it’s happiest when it is by your side. If fact, if it had its way, the English Cocker Spaniel would be with you 24/7 – it would never leave your side for a moment. The English Cocker Spaniel loves doing things with its owner, so get used to having a furry shadow. As well, this breed likes to hunt and has a great hunting instinct. This dog may not be the fastest runners, it is sure footed and can make it through almost any terrain. Want to learn more about the English Cocker Spaniel? Read on to see if this breed is the right fit for your family. A compact dog, this breed is hardy and sturdy, and you’ll soon find that it’s happiest when it is by your side. Origin Originating in England in the late 1500s, the English Cocker Spaniel was broken into seven different breeds: the Sussex, Clumber, English Springer, Welsh Springer, Irish Water Spaniel, Field and the Cocker. Developed together, the only difference between the Cocker and Springer Spaniels is its size. In 1892, the Kennel Club of England the two as individual breeds, and the Canadian and American Kennel Clubs followed suit in the 1940s. The English Cocker Spaniel got its name from the woodcock, a bird it was were bred and trained to hunt. This breed boasts excellent hunting and retrieving abilities, and also does well as a companion dog, watchdog, hunting dog and show dog. Pedigree

Eng-A-Poo

Eng-A-Poo Basics The Eng-A-Poo is also known as the English Toy Spoodle. This is a great canine breed for anyone looking for an intelligent, loyal, and loving companion who will be a lot of fun to be around. To learn more about this hybrid dog and its needs, continue reading for some information that will help you determine if this pooch would be the right choice for you and your family. The Eng-A-Poo is a cross between a purebred English Toy Spaniel and Poodle. Origin The Eng-A-Poo is a designer crossbreed whose origins aren’t entirely clear. Pedigree

Can You Prevent Joint Pain in Dogs?

As dogs near their golden years, different health issues tend to pop up – sometimes completely out of the blue, and sometimes a little less unexpectedly. One of the more common health problems dogs experience as they age that can be predicted fairly easily and as such prevented on time are joint issues. Providing proper support for your dog while they are still young and agile can dramatically improve their quality of life later on, so it pays to start thinking ahead when it comes to joint health, especially if your pet is in a high-risk group for developing this type of problem (large breed dogs, working breeds, highly active dogs, etc). Here’s what you need to know to make sure your pet doesn’t suffer from joint pain in their senior years.5 Crucial Steps to Prevent Joint Pain in DogsWhile some factors contributing to joint pain are beyond our control, there are different proactive steps we can take to support our pet's joint health:#1 Maintain a Healthy WeightJust as in humans, obesity in dogs exacerbates joint strain and can accelerate the onset of joint problems. A balanced diet will go a long way in helping your pet maintain a healthy weight, so strive to ensure they are getting only quality food that is based mostly on protein and doesn’t contain unhealthy fats and too many fillers such as soy or corn.#2 Provide Regular ExerciseModerate, low-impact exercise helps keep joints limber and muscles strong. However, be mindful of your dog's limitations, as pushing them too far can end up being counterproductive. Activities like swimming and walks are excellent choices, just make sure to tailor the pace to your pet’s capabilities.#3 Quality Supplementation Providing a diet rich in essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, supports joint health. However, even when feeding a good quality kibble, it’s not always feasible to rely on your pet’s diet alone to be enough to provide all of these joint-nurturing ingredients in the right ratio. This is where dog joint supplements come in to enrich your pet’s diet with specific nutrients. 

RSPCA Blames Film and Social Media for Overcrowding in Shelters

UK rescues dealing with influx of super-trendy, uber-fashionable pedigree felines.

Is Dog Food Bad for Cats?

In households where cats and dogs coexist together, you can bet that furballs will “share” everything. Sofas, lounging chairs, cozy spots, beds, toys – you name it. Well, sure, not all of it is sharing in the real sense of the word, as it is more of your cat just claiming all of it for itself. That’s just how cats are. But hey, no harm in your cat and dog sharing a bed or a lounging spot. However, what would happen if your cat happened to “share” your dog’s food? Can dog food be bad for cats? Here’s what you should know if your feline is keen on nibbling your dog’s kibble.Is Dog Food Bad for Cats?Cats and dogs are different – it doesn’t take much thinking to figure that out. Not only in their behavioral traits but in their nutritional needs as well. And since their nutritional requirements differ, dog food will generally not be adequate for cats. While dog food is not toxic to cats, it does not have all the nutrients necessary for cats, and it is not formulated in the same way. Cats need specific nutrients like taurine, arachidonic acid, and certain vitamins that are not present in sufficient amounts in dog food. For example, dogs can survive with lower levels of Vitamin A and proteins, while cats cannot. And even if your cat somehow enjoys dog food and prefers to munch on it at feeding time, it is ultimately not good for her. In fact, feeding cats dog food over a long period can lead to nutritional deficiencies and health problems. It's essential to feed cats a balanced diet formulated specifically for their needs to ensure they stay healthy. This includes plenty of protein (more than doggos), and amino acids like taurine and arginine. In fact, these amino acids are essential for cat health. Taurine is especially important for cats. Unlike dogs, cats cannot synthesize enough taurine in their bodies, so they must get it from their diet. Taurine deficiency can lead to serious health issues in cats, including heart problems and vision issues.Cats also require arachidonic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid found in animal tissues. Arachidonic acid is necessary for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and reproductive function. While dogs can synthesize arachidonic acid from other fats, cats cannot produce enough on their own and must obtain it from their diet. The same goes for Vitamins A and D. They are essential components of a cat diet, and cannot be found in dog food in adequate measures. 

What is the Best Dog Harness for Senior Dogs?

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

Why Do Some Dogs Have Bad Body Odor?

Dogs are cute, no doubt about that, but most of them are not winning awards for their lovely BO – in fact, if we’re being honest, most pooches are a bit stinky. Of course, if you make sure to keep them clean with regular baths, grooming, and teeth brushing, you can eliminate or at least significantly reduce any unpleasant smell. But sometimes, even if you are very attentive about your dog’s hygiene, they can still smell a bit funky. Why does this happen? And what should you do in that case? Lastly, is there a way to prevent unpleasant body odors in your dog? Let’s try and answer all these stinky questions.Why Does My Dog Smell Bad?Are you catching a whiff of something foul whenever your dog enters the room? Are you struggling to keep them clean and smelling fresh? There could be a number of reasons why your pupper is stinky, and it is important to go over everything in order to properly address this issue. Firstly, you want to consider their hygiene. Lack of regular grooming and bathing can lead to a buildup of dirt, oils, and bacteria on a dog's skin and coat, resulting in a bad odor. Make sure you are giving your dog a regular wash or a bath, and that you are using  special shampoos that are safe for pets and smell nice.

Are Dog Bars the New Dog Park?

Socializing with other pet parents over a cold one, just got easier!

Guide Dog Trigger Retires After Fathering Over 300 Puppies

A nine-year-old golden retriever, nicknamed The Dogfather, is going to a well-earned retirement after fathering a grand total of 323 puppies. Trigger has spent his years being the star stud dog of Guide Dogs. This charity organization specializes in breeding and training guide dogs for people with visual impairment in the United Kingdom. Since the beginning of his stud career in December 2016, Trigger has fathered 39 litters, including a record-breaking litter with 16 puppies in 2021. According to Guide Dogs, 294 of Trigger’s puppies have been bred by the charity itself, and an additional 29 puppies by other assistance dog charities and guide dog schools, bringing his grand total to 323 puppies.The Dogfather’s final litter consisted of six puppies, including five daughters named Rita, Jenny, Hermione, Indy, and Sandy, and a son, named Billy. The last of Trigger's offspring are eight weeks old and about to start their guide dog training and will be living with volunteer puppy raisers for the next year. “Trigger’s legacy can be seen in the independence and confidence his progeny has brought to the lives of blind and partially sighted people all over Britain,” shared Guide Dogs in a news release. The Dogfather’s puppies have been affectionately nicknamed Triglets by guide dog owners and volunteers. These pups have been guiding visually impaired and partially sighted individuals across the United Kingdom, including London, Cardiff, Glasgow, and even the Isle of Wright. Two of Trigger’s litters have been bred abroad at guide dog organizations in France and the Netherlands, creating guide dog partnerships in both countries. “Trigger’s wonderful, gentle nature and excellent health have made him the perfect asset to our breeding program. We can’t overstate the impact that Trigger has in helping us to provide so many guide dogs for people with sight loss,” said Janine Dixon, Head of Breeding Operations at Guide Dogs. Dixon added the charity hopes that Billy, Trigger’s son, will continue his father’s legacy by joining the breeding program in a few years.“In the meantime, nine of his daughters, as well, as his half-French son Pierre, are helping us to bring forward a new generation of dogs with Trigger’s fantastic genes,” shared Guide Dogs.When it comes to Trigger’s future, he will spend his well-earned retirement in Branbury with his Breeding Dog Volunteer Sarah Bryne, who has been looking after him for the past seven years and will now officially adopt him. 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

Research Finds That Rats Have Imagination

Do animals have imagination? Many people wonder if animals are capable of imagining things in their minds the same way that humans can. Could a rat, for example, use their imagination? Recent research has shown that, yes, they can, at least to a similar degree as people.

Ready for the Solar Eclipse? What You Need to Know

Sunglasses? Sunblock? Treats? What should your solar eclipse arsenal include?

What is a Hydrolyzed Protein Diet for Dogs?

Protein is a very important part of a dog’s diet. However, some doggos might have a sensitive digestive system or even allergies. In such cases, a hydrolyzed protein diet becomes essential as it provides important nutrients without being heavy on their tummy. But what is hydrolyzed protein exactly? A hydrolyzed protein diet for dogs is a type of food that is formulated specifically for dogs that have allergies or certain food sensitivities. The protein sources in this diet are all broken down into smaller molecules, thanks to a complex process called hydrolysis. What this process does is reduce the size of the protein molecules, making them less likely to trigger an allergic reaction. So, if your doggo is a bit sensitive, this could be what’s needed!Veterinarians often recommend hydrolyzed protein for dogs that are diagnosed with intolerances or  food allergies. Thanks to this, your pet can receive all the essential nutrients without any adverse reactions being triggered. The most common sources of hydrolyzed protein in these diets are beef, chicken, salmon, or soy. So it’s just like most of the common dog foods - but in a different, better form. 

Shelter Cat's Brutally Honest Adoption Ad Goes Viral: She Will Own You

Last month, the Humane Society of Washington shared a brutally honest adoption post in which they introduced a cat who is up for adoption. The adoption post, which went viral, describes the feline in question as “a more lively houseplant.”The three-year-old tortoiseshell cat named Quinn arrived at the Humane Society of Washington County in Hagerstown, Maryland, in August as a stray. According to the post, Quinn is currently the shelter’s longest-term cat resident.This is not the first time the shelter advertised Quinn’s adoption. However, since the first post hasn’t helped Quinn find her person, the shelter decided to change tactics with a brutally honest profile.“Do you want a cat who doesn’t want you? Do you crave the feeling of being judged in your own home? Do you need someone who will slap you back into reality without notice? If you answered yes to any of these questions we have a cat for you!” posted the Humane Society of Washington County on Facebook. “Meet Quinn!” the shelter added.The post went on to say that Quinn’s not for everyone. “But surely there’s someone out there who would appreciate her icy stare and her sudden smacks.”Continuing to highlight all of Quinn’s quirks the post said “She has an uncanny ability to make people feel unwelcome in her presence!” This particular trait makes Quinn perfect for people who are tired of visitors and just want to enjoy the peace of their home. Additionally, Quinn isn’t an overly energetic feline. “Quinn only seems to want to play about once a month,” making her an ideal companion for people who aren’t big fans of physical activity.“Quinn is essentially a more lively houseplant, because all she really needs a human for is food, water, and changing her litter,” said the shelter.“If you adopt Quinn you will not be her owner, because Quinn cannot be owned. She will own you, your house, your belongings, and everything you hold dear.” The shelter also noted that Quinn isn’t on the main adoption floor with other felines and must be asked for by name. The feisty feline has taken up residence in an office where she rules with an iron paw. Anyone interested in being “Quinn’s servant” should not have canines or small children in the house. “Quinn would challenge any dog to a fight. For the dog’s safety, it’s best that she goes to a home without any canines,” said the shelter. The Humane Society of Washington County added - “Quinn is like a more physical version of someone yelling ‘Get off my lawn!’ at small children.” - leaving teens and adults as only suitable housemates. “We originally [shared] a conservative post highlighting Quinn’s strengths, but when no one came for her, we decided the best way to find her a home was to rip off the band-aid and just let her true colors shine,” said Collin A. Berry, executive director of the Humane Society of Washington County, to Fox News Digital. Soon after Quinn arrived at the shelter it became clear that she wasn’t a particularly social feline. She didn’t allow any of the staff to touch her for close to a week. After being sedated for an exam, and given a clean bill of health, it became clear that her behavior wasn’t the result of pain or an underlying health condition. “Everyone thought time and space would help, but as it turns out, Quinn is just Quinn,” said Berry. “She’s a lady who knows what she wants and when she wants it.”We’re happy to report that Quinn has been adopted! It turns out honesty is the best policy! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

42% of Pet Parents Feel Caring for Pets is More Stressful Than Kids!

Pets can be an incredible addition to any family, but they can also come with a bit of stress. In fact, a recent study revealed that nearly half of pet parents shared that caring for their pet was more stressful than caring for their partner or even their children! What is it about our pets that worries us the most? That was the goal of the recent survey conducted by OnePoll and ElleVet Sciences. They polled 2000 pet owners, asking them questions about their relationships, their pets, and the stress that they experience in their role. The answers revealed that the top three sources of stress in most people’s lives include their finances (54%), their job or career (49%), and their ability to care for their pets (42%). The survey went on to discuss reasons for being stressed about our pets, and there was one concern that the majority of respondents shared – as pet parents, we worry about our ability to provide the care our pets will need in their senior years. As our pets get older, their needs often change. We can see this in the way they act and the activities they engage in. A once hyperactive, high-energy dog may start to slow down and sleep more. A dog that easily jumped onto the couch most of their lives now requires stairs or a ramp to get up for cuddle time. Not all changes that come with aging are inherently bad, but 68% of parents say watching their pet age and suffer would be more hurtful to them than losing their job (61%) or breaking up with their partner (61%). “Supporting your pet through all stages of life can minimize their stress, allowing you to create more happy memories together,” shared Amanda Howland, co-founder and CCO of ElleVet Sciences. “As your pet gets older, it’s important to be proactive in identifying the signs of aging, such as difficulty moving, trouble sleeping, and social isolation. It’s all about more time, and more quality time with your pet, and for them, aging and stress are intertwined so taking care of discomfort-related aging and cognitive decline can reduce their stress significantly.” The concern shared by the survey respondents (and other pet parents nationwide) clearly illustrates how important our pets are in our lives. While 73% of those surveyed described their pet as their “protector,” they serve many other vital roles in our lives – our best friends, sounding boards, cheerleaders, motivators, and companions. Your senior pet may require some changes around the home. Throw rugs can be used to provide traction on slippery floors. Safety gates are key for blocking off unsafe areas like staircases that could lead to injury. Caring for our senior pets may be stressful, but it’s also an opportunity to repay our pets for everything they have given us throughout their lives. Even just setting aside time in your schedule each day for a walk around the block followed by a short cuddle on the couch can positively impact their lives, reducing stress and promoting better health. “Just like us, pets’ needs can change as they age, so their daily routines, diet, and exercise may need to be adjusted to improve their quality of life, as well as adding high-quality supplements,” Howland explained. “Small adjustments can ensure your pet’s golden years are less stressful for both themselves and their human companion.”

Top stories

English Toy Spaniel

About English Toy Spaniel

Related articles