Poo-Ton

by Mary Simpson

Published: December 29th, 2017

About Poo-Ton

Weight

8-15 lb

Height

9-12 inches

Lifespan

12-15 years

Group

Not Applicable

Best Suited For

first-time dog owners, families with kids and other pets, apartment-dwellers, those looking for a low- or non-shedding dog

Temperament

affectionate, energetic, friendly, alert

Comparable Breeds

Poodle, Coton de Tulear

Poo-Ton Basics

The entertaining little Poo-Ton is a fun-loving family dog who brings the energy of the Coton de Tulear together with the playful nature of the Toy or Miniature Poodle for a pooch that just loves to hang out with this human pack and be the center of attention. This friendly little dog gets along with kids and other pets and in spite of his small stature, makes a terrific watchdog.

The fun-loving Poo-Ton is a combination of the playful Toy or Miniature Poodle and the high-energy Coton de Tulear.

Origin

The Poo-Ton is considered a designer dog versus mixed breed because he is the result of mating two pure-bred dogs. Introduced back in the 1980’s the goal of breeders was to produce puppies that carried the desired traits of both parent breeds – typically a healthier, smaller, hypo-allergenic or gentler form of a popular breed.

Pedigree

The Poo-Ton’s mixed breed status as a designer dog means he does not qualify to be a member of the American Kennel Club (AKC) however his parents are both members; the Coton de Tulear joined the “non-sporting” group in 2014 while the Poodle joined the same group back in 1887.

Food/Diet

The Poo-Ton is a small, somewhat active dog and he will require a food designed specifically for his age, size and activity level. Always opt for a well-balanced top-quality kibble and control his consumption by serving it 2 to 3 times a day versus allowing him to free-feed. Because the Poodle in him can suffer from digestive issues including bloat, ensure it is low in fat and that any exercise is not planned for at least 1 hour after feeding.

The sweet-natured Poo-Ton is an affectionate little dog that gets along well with children and other pets.

Training

The Poo-Tan is the perfect dog when it comes to training. He is quick to obey commands and fewer repetitions means faster results. Still, its important this little pooch knows you are the pack leader or you risk small dog syndrome where he feels he is the ruler of the roost. Training should be firm, consistent and always include plenty of verbal praise and treats for a job well done.

Weight

Your Poo-Ton will weigh between 8 to 15 pounds when he reaches adulthood.

Temperament/Behavior

The sweet-natured Poo-Ton is an affectionate little dog that gets along well with children and other pets. This energetic pooch is highly social and thrives on human companionship and interactive playtimes. He is a loving, loyal dog and although he can be aloof with strangers he isn’t known for excessive barking which makes him perfect for apartment living. This intelligent little dog is eager to please and quick to obey commands making him easy to train and an ideal choice for the first-time dog owner.

Common Health Problems

As with most designer dogs, the Poo-Ton may be exempt from many of the health issues that plague his pure-bred parents. That said, its always important to know what your new pup could inherit and in this instance, he can be prone to digestive and joint issues from the Poodle as well as hypothyroidism, Progressive Retinal Atrophy and Mitral Valve Disease.

Life Expectancy

Poo-Tons live longer than many small breeds and will typically reach 12 to 16 years of age.

Exercise Requirements

The Poo-Ton’s small size dictates his exercise needs and while he won’t require lengthy walks he will need regular activity to keep him physically fit and mentally stimulated. His playful nature makes tossing balls or Frisbees a great addition to his regular exercise regimen but because he has a tendency to wander off, ensure your yard is fully fenced or his whereabouts are monitored if you opt to take him to an off-leash park.

The affectionate Poo-Ton is a loyal family pet who is eager-to-please and easy to train.

Recognized Clubs

Also known as the Doodle-Ton, Cotondoodle, Pooton and Cotonpoo, the Poo-Ton’s designer dog status means he isn’t recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) however he is a member of the Designer Breed Registry (DBR), American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC), Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC), Dog Registry of American, Inc. (DRA) and the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR).

Coat

The Poo-Ton is a non- to -low-shedding dog because of his Poodle DNA and is considered hypoallergenic which makes him ideal for those with allergies. In spite of his minimal shedding, his curly, medium-length coat is super lightweight which means it tangles easily and daily brushing will be needed. Grooming should be done every 2 to 3 months to maintain his coat shape and because he has floppy ears, plan to check and clean them weekly to avoid infections.

Puppies

Poo-Ton pups are ultra tiny and require careful handling to avoid injuring their tiny joints. As he grows you can slowly begin socialization and obedience training with this smart little pup who will be quick to pick up your commands. By starting early, you can avoid the problems associated with “small dog syndrome” later on. Exercise and leash training should be introduced gradually with a mind to not over-taxing little legs and causing joint injuries.

Photo credit: anetapics/Shutterstock; Jennifer Clapp/Shutterstock.com; Apple_Foto/Shutterstock.com

Mary Simpson

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

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Maltipoo

Maltipoo BasicsThe Maltese Poodle mix is a popular designer dog for a good reason – the combination of two hypoallergenic, cute dogs results in a new breed that inherits the best traits from both parents. Not only is the Maltipoo as sweet as they come, but they have all it takes to be a fantastic companion dog. This is a pup that will steal your heart and you’ll never get it back. The major downside of owning one is merely that you’ll have a hard time accepting any other breed of dog ever again. Once you go Maltipoo, no other pooch will ever do!This designer dog was developed by crossing purebred Poodle and Maltese to create a new breed of designer dog that will have all of the traits of a perfect companion dog, from their low-shedding hypoallergenic fur to small stature and loveable personalities. The breed is officially recognized under two names – Maltipoo and  Malt-A-Poo – but has various alternative names you can find it under. These include Malti-Doodle, Malt-A-Doodle, Maltedoodle, Malt-oodle, Malt-A-Poo, Malti-Poodle, Maltesepoo, Maltese-Poodle, Maltesedoodle, Moodle, and Multa-Poo. Whew! That sure is a lot of names for a Maltese Poodle mix, but considering their immense popularity, it doesn’t come as a big surprise that people have been figuring out different names and labels for their adorable hybrids.The Maltipoo is generally friendly and outgoing. This pup will act as if everyone in the world is his best bud. The love goes both ways, too. It’s inescapable. People simply can’t resist the Maltipoo’s soft coat and spunky attitude. Maltipoos are easy to train because they are very intelligent and eager to please their owners. This crossbreed is the perfect dog for first-time dog owners or for those living in small spaces with no yards, such as an apartment or a condo. They will fill those small spaces with their spunky energy, but thankfully your stuff will be safe from any doggy destruction.Maltipoos are bred to be hypoallergenic dogs. However, not all puppies will grow to fulfill this hope. If allergies are the reason for getting a Maltipoo puppy, make sure to check your reactions first. You should spend a considerable amount of time with with your puppy and others from the litter to ensure that your allergies won’t kick in. Let’s face it; nobody wants to get a new puppy only to have to give him up weeks later due to allergy problems. So putting in the effort early will save you some heartbreak, even if it’ll be tough to tear yourself away from the adorable little of Maltese Poodle puppies once you start having a reaction.OriginUnfortunately, there is still quite a bit we don’t know about the history of designer dog breeds, but the biggest mystery about them is their origin. Apart from the popular Labradoodle, not many hybrid breeds have a well-documented history. What we now think of as designer dogs were considered little more mutts by pure breed dog snobs for so long that no one bothered to chronicle their official origin. In many instances, the first litter likely came about by accident. We simply don’t know where most of these beautiful brands of pup came from, unlike many of the more established pure bred doggos.When it comes to the Maltipoo and their history, it’s not that different from most of their mixed breed fellows. The Maltese Poodle mix was created in the United States, sometime in the last 20 to 30 years. The Maltipoo dog was created by breeders to be a small and affectionate companion. Their intended role is to be a wonderful pet that would fit into any family’s lifestyle. Simple as that. The original breeders certainly hit their mark. There’s simply no denying that the Maltipoo is a great companion for almost any family. Both the Poodle and the Maltese are popular dog breeds, so combining the two together was thought to bring out the best in both breeds. This is a pup designed to be loved and after a few minutes in their presence, you’ll be more than happy to comply.Pedigree

Irish Doodle

Irish Doodle BasicsAre you looking for a smart, energetic, and family-friendly pooch to bring into your life? Then you’re in luck! Also known as the Irish Doodle Setter, Irish Poo Setter, Irish Setterdoodle, and Irish Setterpoo (Whew! That’s a lot of aliases!), the Irish Doodle is a super cute, friendly, and light-hearted medium-sized crossbreed. That’s right, they have almost any many lovable qualities as they do names. A mix of Irish Setter and Poodle, the Irish Doodle is ideal for anyone seeking a dog that won’t shed a lot and who will be loyal, social, and intelligent. This dog rarely barks and will even get along great with children and pets. In other words, it’s a perfect dog to bring home and make part of your family. After a few days with your Irish Doodle, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without him!If the Irish Doodle sounds too good to be true, rest assured that it isn’t. These dogs are very real and they live up to the hype! Combing adorable looks and an equally loveable attitude, this crossbreed is becoming hugely popular. After a few minutes spent in the radiant presence of these irresistible pups, you’ll understand why. To find out if this dog would be the right fit for your family, check keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away. We’ll tell you everything that you need to know about the Irish Doodle and why you need to bring one into your home post haste.The Irish Doodle is a super cute, friendly, and light-hearted medium-sized crossbreed.Origin The Irish Doodle is one of the newest designer dog breeds. As it is the case with most of these dogs, the Irish Setter and Poodle mix also doesn’t have much of a history to speak of. Or at least they don’t have a well documented history. Intentionally bred crossbreeds are still somewhat of a novelty in the world of canines. Before the 1980s, when the creation of the Labradoodle opened a whole new world of possibilities for hybrids, all mixed breed dogs were a product of accidental mating. Mutts, although undeniably as lovely as their purebred fellows, simply weren’t as popular or coveted. Thankfully, all of that has changed quite dramatically. In fact, designer dogs can now cost several times more than their purebred parents! It’s amazing how things can change in a few short years.As a designer dog breed itself, the Irish Doodle was probably first developed at some point over the last 30 years. Similarly, this Doodle hybrid likely had its start in the United States, like most hybrids did. Owing to the difficulties associated with discerning what are mutts and what are designer dogs, there’s no way to accurately pinpoint the time and place of the breed’s beginnings. Breeders simply didn’t think to document that sort of thing until quite recently. However, despite a general lack of information about the breed, the Irish Doodle does have an impressive history…through its parents. The Irish Setter originated in 18th century Ireland, and the Poodle is an even older breed. There have been records of Poodles stretching back as far as 15th century Germany. So there’s quite a rich heritage to the Irish Doodle, even if their exact origin remains a mystery.Pedigree

Gen Y Dogma: 5 Eye-Opening Lessons Learned During Our Crash Course In

Your puppy comes home, you’ve explored every inch of her adorable body, rubbing her belly and ears, taking pictures and posting them on Facebook for everyone to fawn over. But how soon does that new puppy cuteness wear off and pet parenthood set in? Christina Peden catches on pretty quick that the demands of puppies can take away from how delightfully deceiving they look (that’s how they fool you, crafty little buggers!). At the end of my last column, I told you that our lives were never the same after the day we got Matilda. For better or for worse (but mostly for the better), puppy parenthood changes your lives in ways both expected and not. I want to talk about the things Ryan and I learned almost immediately upon bringing Matilda home and share a few tips that I hope you’ll find helpful. 1. Puppy teeth are SHARP! It might sound silly, but neither Ryan nor I truly realized this before we got Matilda, and let me tell you: it was a painful lesson. If you’ve ever had a cat, imagine him or her having a mouth full of claws, because that’s exactly how puppy teeth feel! And FYI, puppies like to play-bite, and it can take a while to break them of that habit. Until then, be prepared for the fact yours hands and forearms (and your partner’s) will often give others the notion that you have, quite literally, been in a cat fight. By the way, your puppy doesn’t even have to bite to draw blood. One graze from a puppy tooth is all it takes. Yes, they really are that that sharp. 2. New puppies need constant supervision Unless your puppy is in their crate, you can rest assured that if you’re not watching them, they’re probably up to no good. Ryan and I still worry when Matilda’s not in the room and we can’t hear her. It usually means she’s upstairs chewing something she shouldn’t be or trying to get into the cat litter box for a “snack” (gross!) or… god knows what else. Silence is never a good thing with a puppy in the house! And if you think you can catch some ZZZ’s while your pup is awake? Think again! Not only will your puppy be jumping on your face, slathering you in kisses and trying to get you to play, but they’ll also probably be trying to chew your furniture or footwear to bits. We’ve lost a few pairs of shoes by failing to put them away or close the closet door. If you’re a shoeaholic like me, don’t make the same mistake: PUT THE SHOES AWAY. 3. Say goodbye to sleeping

Green Power Goes Brown With Dog Poo Poo Powered Appliances

Poop, scoop and power up! A concept project is in the works that will convert dog poop into power that runs your household appliances. For those who pooh-pooh the idea of new, off-the-wall technologies that support green power… boy, have I got one for you! With U.K.’s recent introduction of a BioBus that converts human waste into sufficient energy to power a commuter bus for 15 minute intervals, it was inevitable that some dog walker, somewhere in the world, would add number two plus number two and come up with a better way to dispose of doggie doo (so many crappy poop jokes!). Related: Turns Out “Green” Poop Bags Aren’t The Sh*t After All I mean, which of us have not wondered if Rover’s rump could one day power up the coffee maker or the toaster. Not you? Well, hang on to your leash! Geneva-based designer and pet parent Oceane Izard has created Poo Poo Power. While still in the conceptual stages, it seems to deliver on its promise to convert dog poop into electricity sufficient to charge household gadgets. The actual dream machine resembles a Diaper Genie in terms of size and scale. The poop – previously collected into a bio-degradable bag – is deposited into the top of the machine and lots of little sounds tell us its busy doing something with Fido’s feces. Related: Grab The GoGo Stick: It’s Your Go-To When Fido Go-Goes Apparently sludge-eating bacteria belch out methane that is converted to power. The electricity is stored in large batteries which can be detached and used as an outlet for household appliances. Be honest. Around now you’re wondering if your dog has it in him to power up the dishwasher. Well, Izard confirms the amount of power it produces depends on the dog. A German Shepherd produces more “fuel” than a beagle, which would mean the smaller dog could probably run a fan for a couple of hours while the shepherd could potentially run your fridge. It’s estimated the average household would need six to seven (well fed, I assume) dogs per person to operate all electrical equipment. Izard is convinced it will change pet owner attitudes when it comes to sidewalk clean up. “Dog owners pick up their dog turds every day. This is certainly an ordeal. That’s why there’s so much in the streets. But with this machine, people will want to bring [home] this precious gift that their dogs do one to two times a day.” It seems San Francisco agrees (almost) and considered a pilot of this nature back in 2006, but it never shall we say… got off the ground. It’s estimated that in the U.S., dogs produce around 10 million tons of poop each year, and most of that waste goes to landfill – where it pumps methane, a potent greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere. Dog waste also pollutes watersheds; a study in Seattle found that as much as 20 percent of bacteria in local water came from dogs. This interesting take on “clean” energy has potential, but will people be able to get over the fact that their home is powered by dog poop? Would you ever power up with poop? Leave your comments below!

Drug That Could Extend Lifespan of Senior Dogs Enters Clinical Trial

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

Dog Finds A Forever Home After Spending 1,007 Days at Delaware Shelter

Tessy, now a 5-year-old black Labrador retriever mix, spent 1,007 days at a Delaware animal shelter before being adopted into a forever home. This cute pooch arrived at Humane Animal Partners (formerly Delaware Humane Association and Delaware SPCA) on January 17, 2021, hoping to be adopted in no time.Unfortunately, finding her people proved challenging for Tessy. Days, weeks, months, and years went by, and Tessy was still living at the shelter with no prospective adopters in sight. “Tessy is loyal, goofy, snuggly, and remarkably smart,” said Leigh McKinley, a director at the Humane Animal Partners, according to PEOPLE. Like many other shelter dogs, Tessy had some trust issues and was wary of new people and experiences. These problems were the reasons for Tessy’s longer stay at the Humane Animal Partners shelter. “Tessy exhibited fear-reactive behaviors in the form of lunging, barking, and growling towards unfamiliar stimuli. Our goal was to help her overcome those fears and learn to trust humans and her surrounding environment, essentially changing her emotional response from a negative to a positive,” McKinley explained.The shelter used a behavioral modification plan, which consisted of positive reinforcement training techniques to help Tessy overcome her fears. Fixing a problematic behavior takes a lot of time, patience, and effort, but the shelter’s staff didn’t give up on Tessy.“Changing an involuntary physiological behavior takes dedication and consistency to be successful, and while we were determined to see this through, the nature of being in a shelter, with different staff members working with her on any given day, and for varying amounts of time, means the change would take time,” said McKinley. “We also needed to make sure her adopters were the right fit for her. We took a very thoughtful and careful approach to introducing her to people, and it took time for the right family to find her.”Then, almost three years later, all of Tessy’s hard work paid off! After 1,007 days at the shelter, this cute pooch has finally found her forever home. The family who adopted Tessy, met her several times to help her feel at ease. For the adopters, it was love at first sight, and Tessy instantly felt safe around them. “When her adopters Jeanine and Jeff first met her, we all tried to keep a level head about it, not getting our hopes up too high. After their third meeting, though, we could tell Tessy had already established a level of trust with them that we had never seen so quickly before,” said McKinley. Jeff and Jeanine adopted the pooch shortly after the third visit, and the shelter’s staff was ecstatic that Tessy had found a loving home.“It was a rollercoaster of emotions leading up to the adoption day, everything from celebrations to disbelief to sadness, excitement, a bit of anxiety, and everything in between. Mostly, though, we felt proud. Proud of her, proud of everyone who helped get her to this point, and proud of the results,” McKinley shared.  “We all know she’d do okay, we are also quite aware that going from three years in the shelter into a loving home is a big adjustment, and it will take her a while to fully acclimate. We tried to instill in her adopters to be confident and patient but never to be complacent.” the shelter’s director added.It’s important to know that not every visit to an animal shelter ends with ‘love at first sight.’ A lot of adoptable dogs have experienced some level of trauma and neglect, and are generally more anxious inside the shelter. Keep an open mind when visiting your local shelter and remember that each of these pups deserves a loving family and a forever home. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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Study Reveals a Link Between Mental Health and an Attachment to Pets

We have all been told at one time or another that our pets are good for our mental health. But have you ever stopped to consider how your mental health could also impact the attachment bond you form with your pet? Could your attachment to your pet hurt your mental health?These questions and more were the inspiration behind a new study out of the University of Helsinki.Rather than focusing solely on the benefits of dogs and cats to our mental well-being, researchers went a step better. The goal was to better understand how the relationship we form with our pets could have an impact both on us as well as on the pets themselves. They also dug into how an owner’s attachment style could impact the care they provide and our pet’s behaviors.The research team collected information from approximately 2,500 pet owners and 3,300 pets to gather the necessary data. This included:Personality traits (of owners, dogs, and cats)Owner mental well-being ratingsUnwanted behavior traitsOther potential influences, like children in the householdAttachment stylesIn terms of the relationship, they looked specifically at two types of insecure attachment – anxious and avoidant. Anxious attachment refers to owners who desire to have their pets nearby and are concerned about the risk of losing their pets. On the other end of the spectrum, avoidant attachment refers to pet owners concerned about losing their personal autonomy and, as such, seeking a higher level of independence.The study found that cat owners with lower mental health ratings demonstrated anxious attachment to their feline friends. However, dog owners with similar mental health ratings were split between anxious attachment and avoidant attachment.Interestingly enough, there was a clear division between the attachment styles when categorizing the relationships based on a dog’s mental well-being and potentially “unwanted” or “problem” behaviors. Dogs who demonstrated aggression or ADHD-like behavior were more likely to have avoidantly attached owners, while dogs who demonstrated fear-related behaviors were often connected to anxiously attached owners.What does all this mean? By recognizing the connection, we can better understand how personality and attachment styles can influence one another.For example, if a dog owner demonstrates avoidant attachment, they may not provide the security a dog desires in a potentially threatening situation. As a result, the dog may develop aggression. However, it is also possible that a dog’s aggressive response may contribute to an owner’s need for space and independence from the behavior and its impact on their daily activities.“What made this project unique was that it involved dogs, cats, and owners alike,” explained Professor Hannes Lohi. “We need a deeper understanding of the connections between owners and pets and the associated factors so we can, for example, help people make better decisions when obtaining a pet. It’s important to acknowledge that obtaining a pet while experiencing poor mental well-being may not necessarily meet the expectations of improving it.”Not only is this a big step forward in helping people make educated decisions about pet ownership, but it could also provide valuable guidance for trainers and behaviorists when dealing with unwanted behaviors.

Amazing Wiener Dog Gives Birth to a Record Breaking Puppy Litter

Puppy litters can certainly be large, but in the case of this brave Wiener dog mom, everyone was taken by surprise! This extraordinary female dachshund brought to the world a litter of no less than 11 puppies – there is definitely potential for a world record here. Winnie, a three-year-old female dachshund, was seemingly a normal pregnant dog, and nobody expected her litter to be this big. Normally, this breed of dog delivers between one and six puppies, but Winnie delivered nearly double that number in September.

Dave Bautista Teams Up With the ASPCA for Giving Tuesday

With an estimated 3.1 million dogs entering U.S. animal shelters every year, the need for funding and support is evident. For many, this is a call to action to find ways to make a difference – including for Guardians of the Galaxy actor Dave Bautista. Starting today, November 28th, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is launching a new fundraising and awareness campaign with 54 Bautista and his four rescue pit bulls in the spotlight. The campaign was created as part of Giving Tuesday, a global response to the corporate focus of Black Friday (as well as Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday). Rather than highlighting sales and taking advantage of deals through your favorite stores and brands, Giving Tuesday encourages Americans to take a moment and consider how they can make a difference in the lives of others – including, of course, animals in shelters and rescue organizations. Bautista’s involvement in the campaign is motivated by his experiences with animal rescue and its impact on his life. “My home is where my dogs are because there is just such a sense of love,” Bautista stated. “I feel like wherever they are, there’s this sense of normalcy, which is hard for me to attain these days.” He went on to explain, “My first rescue dogs were Ollie and Maggie, and I’ve had them for about five years. I adopted them, and after becoming so connected with them, I started to be more aware of how many dogs are just waiting for someone to give them good, loving homes. You get so much in return when you adopt a pet, and I’m going to preach adoption for the rest of my life.”

Humans Are Getting Their Pets Sick – Here's What You Need To Know

Zoonosis are diseases that can be transmitted from other vertebrate animals to humans, such as rabies or Lyme disease, and has been around ever since we started domesticating animals. However, recent studies reveal that a new and lesser-known form of zoonose is becoming increasingly common: the reverse zoonose. This is the latest phenomenon, where disease can be transmitted from humans to their pets. Dr. Benjamin Anderson from the University of Florida was amongst the first to warn about the increase of reverse zoonoses. He said that more attention should be paid to disease transmission “in the opposite direction”, and that both pets and their owners can be threatened by it, especially when sharing close quarters with one another.“We’re starting to see a lot of examples of reverse zoonosis. Pets are more susceptible than, maybe, we previously thought,” he said. “Typically, the viruses that I will have as a human are not going to fit into the receptors that a dog or cat has.”This means that reverse zoonoses typically appear when a pathogen in humans mutates and then adapts to a new animal host. In the past, however, it was much rarer for this to happen, because humans and animals have a totally different biology.But now, the viruses like  coronavirus or influenza have a much higher chance of cross-species transmission. This is mainly due to their RNA-based genetic material, which is more likely to mutate or have replication errors. According to Dr. Anderson, there are several diseases that have been documented to transmit from humans to their pets. These include COVID-19, tuberculosis, swine flu, dengue, human-norovirus, and other viral, fungal, parasitic, and bacterial infections.To make matters worse, the highest chances for this to happen is with pets such as dogs, cats, horses, and ferrets, as they have the most genetic similarity to humans, being mammals. “We have to first ask how the pathogen gets into those animals in the first place,” said Dr. Anderson for  Phys.org. “The pathogen doesn’t develop out of thin air in animals before suddenly spilling over into humans. While pathogens certainly can move from animals to other animals and can be picked up from the environment, exposure to humans also plays an important role. It’s this constant back and forth exchange that happens over time, increasing the probability of a mutation taking place that allows the pathogen to infect a new host.”Dr. Anderson also noted the difficulty in tracking reverse zoonoses, as it is a big challenge to link the transmission of diseases between humans and animals. Because of this, Dr. Anderson advises pet owners to be cautious around pets, particularly if they are sick with communicable diseases, like COVID-19 or the flu. Maintain good hygiene around your pets, and avoid direct contact.

Should My Cat Sleep in My Bed?

Final Thoughts - Should My Cat Sleep in My Bed?There is no “right” answer as to whether your cat should be allowed to sleep in your bed. While your furry friend could provide comfort and warmth through those long nights, they may also trigger health problems or keep you awake.Cat parents need to weigh the pros and cons, consider their cat’s personality and sleeping habits, factor in their own needs, and decide on the best solution for everyone. If you need your own space at night for a restful night’s sleep, there are other options that you can provide, including heated cat beds, cozy condos, and relaxing hammocks. Whatever you decide, the ultimate goal is to set up your home so everyone can get the sleep they need to live a happy, healthy life!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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.

What Is Pyoderma In Dogs?

The sight of an itchy dog often raises concerns among pet parents. From parasites, like fleas and ticks, to uncomfortable skin issues and irritation, the explanation is rarely a positive one. In some cases, even finding a cause is an uphill battle. One condition you may have read about or heard your veterinarian mention is pyoderma. But what is pyoderma, and what does this mean for your best friend? In this article, we will dive deep into the world of dog skin issues, uncovering not only the warning signs and possible causes of pyoderma in dogs but also the steps you can take to offer some much-needed relief from the itch and irritation. Let’s get started… What is Pyoderma? Pyoderma is a term used to refer to a bacterial skin infection, with the word literally translating to “pus (pyo) in the skin (derma).” It is one of the most common dog skin conditions. Luckily, it is also often easy to treat once it has been diagnosed. Most dogs recover fully with the proper medication. The condition is classified into one of three types based on its location in or on the skin. They include: Surface Pyoderma: infections on top of the skin’s surfaceSuperficial Pyoderma: infections in the outermost layer of the skin, including in the hair follicles (which may be referred to as superficial bacterial folliculitis)Deep Pyoderma: infections in the deeper layers of the skinThe condition itself isn’t always visible, making it sometimes difficult to spot. This is why it is so important for dog parents to familiarize themselves with the warning signs of skin irritation and seek veterinary help. They can do the tests necessary to look beyond what is visible to the naked eye. What Causes Pyoderma in Dogs? Every healthy dog has bacteria on the surface of their skin. When a dog’s skin becomes irritated for any reason, they respond by scratching at the spot. This creates openings in the layers of the skin where the bacteria can move deeper, creating the perfect environment for them to grow and thrive. There are several potential triggers for the initial irritation, including: Environmental or seasonal allergies Food allergies Flea allergy dermatitis Chronic exposure to moisture (like skin folds)Seborrhea Impaired blood flow to the skin Endocrine disorders (Hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease) It can also start when the skin is damaged due to an injury. Even a minor injury could cause just enough of an opening into the skin’s layers to begin the cycle. Is Dog Pyoderma Contagious to Humans? As this is a bacterial infection, it isn’t a risk of transmission like an airborne virus would be. Some strains of the bacteria can occasionally lead to an infection in humans or other dogs. However, the risk is incredibly low unless you have a compromised immune system. You can minimize the risk of transmission by focusing on keeping your home clean as your dog fights the infection. This includes regularly cleaning their food and water dishes as well as any bedding your dog sleeps on regularly. If you have an open wound, keep it covered when spending time with your infected dog.

Why Is My Bird Biting Me?

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

How Cold is Too Cold for My Dog to Be Outside?

You might enjoy the magic of wintertime, but that doesn’t mean that your pooch shares your enthusiasm for cold weather – or the situation might be the exact opposite, with your four-legged bestie enjoying snowfall and you dreading the icy temperatures. Either way, you might be wondering if your pet needs some extra protection or different routines during winter – after all, some dogs are less suited for cold than others. So, it begs the question how cold is too cold for your dog, and should you even try going outside in these cases? There are several precautions you can take, but sometimes, you should be wary of extreme temperatures. Let’s delve deeper and learn more. How Cold is Too Cold for My Dog to Be Outside?The tolerance to cold weather can vary among individual dogs based on factors such as breed, size, coat type, age, and overall health. Generally, most dogs can tolerate cold weather to some extent, but there are certain conditions and temperatures where it becomes unsafe for them to be outside for extended periods. Of course, there will be some telltale signs that it’s just too cold to be outside. Signs that your dog may be too cold include shivering, whining, seeking shelter, lifting paws off the ground, or exhibiting signs of discomfort. If you notice any of these signs, it's time to bring your dog inside for some much-needed warmth.Of course, it’s essential to use your judgment and consider your dog's individual needs – you should always prioritize your dog's well-being in extreme weather conditions, but that will differ from dog to dog and climate to climate. Even so, there are some general guidelines for determining if it’s too cold outside for your pet – here’s what you need to know before taking them outside in really cold weather.Consider their coat length and breed: In winter, your pet’s coat can be a determining factor for outside time. Dogs with thick or double coats, such as  Siberian Huskies or  Alaskan Malamutes, may be more tolerant of cold temperatures than those with short coats, like Chihuahuas or Greyhounds. Some dogs were specially bred for living and working in cold environments, while some breeds were developed for completely opposite conditions. If your pet belongs to the latter group, it might be useful to invest in  a warm coat  designed to keep your dog toasty and warm during cold weather.

Canine Nose Prints Help Reunite Lost Pets with Owners

Faster and more effective than microchips? Time will tell.

Why is My Dog Vomiting White Foam?

Sometimes, our dogs can exhibit behavior that can cause great panic in any owner. After all, they can’t talk to us and tell when something is hurting them, or when they feel ill, scared, or angry. So they let their bodies do the talking. One of these scary behaviors is vomiting white foam. It can happen all of a sudden, and frighten you to no end. But is it really a reason to panic? And what causes a dog to vomit white foam in the first place? Let’s find out more.Why Do Dogs Vomit White Foam?The reasons for white foam vomiting can be many, and the cause might not be clear to you immediately. What’s even more frustrating, there are several possible causes for this occurrence. In some cases, the reason for the vomiting can be complex, but often enough it is super simple. It could end up being a sensitive tummy irritated by a new brand of food on the menu, or just a passing belly ache that’s nothing to stress over. However, you should always consult with a vet to eliminate any underlying health issues, as there are many conditions whose symptom is vomiting. One of the conditions that manifests as vomiting foam is bilious vomiting, which is caused when a dog's stomach is empty for an extended period. This leads to the production of gastric acid, so the stomach contents may include a foamy, white substance. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day may help prevent this.  Gastritis, or the inflammation of the stomach lining can also cause vomiting. This condition may be triggered by various factors, such as dietary indiscretion, changes in diet, ingesting foreign objects, or infections. The vomit can likewise be white and foamy. The same can happen in the case of gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, which is often caused by infections, dietary changes, or the ingestion of inappropriate or spoiled food. Be careful of the expiration dates and the quality of food you give to your dog, as an innocent mistake can cause a lot of digestive issues for your four-legged bestie. Another possible reason for white foam vomit can be the  ingestion of foreign bodies. Dogs may ingest non-food items that can cause irritation or blockages in the digestive tract, leading to vomiting. If you notice them dry heaving, this could be the reason why. The same goes for the ingestion of  toxic materials. Ingesting toxic substances can lead to white foamy vomiting. Common toxins include certain plants, human foods (like chocolate, xylitol, or onions), and household chemicals.

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