Barbs

by Amy Tokic

Published: November 11th, 2013

About Barbs

Group

Freshwater

Size

Small

Temperament

Non-aggressive

Aquarium Size

Medium (30 gal)

Swimming Region

All

Fish Water Condition

Varies depending on species

Suitable Tank Mates

Other species of barb, Tetras, Swordtails, Platys, Mollies

Difficulty Of Care

Weekly care

Barbs General description

Barbs are an extremely large family of freshwater fish that are a popular choice in the aquarium hobby. Different species come in a dazzling array of colors, and are usually small in size and relatively hardy, making them a popular choice amongst most beginner aquarists.

Barbs are an extremely large family of freshwater fish that are a popular choice in the aquarium hobby.

Origins

Most species of barb originate from Asia.

Color

Barbs come in a wide array of colors including pink, red, yellow, gold, green, silver and black.

Maintenance and care

Barbs are a schooling species of fish and should ideally be kept in large groups of 10 or more. When kept alone or in smaller groups, these fish will often turn very timid and turn dull in color. In the wild, barbs often inhabit ecosystems with heavy plant life so it is advisable to recreate these conditions in the home aquarium. They thrive in heavily planted aquariums with subdued lighting and plenty of hiding spaces.

Most species are very peaceful and make excellent additions to community tanks. However, some species of barb like the tiger barb can turn boisterous and start harassing fish with long flowing fins like bettas, goldfish and angel fish.

While barbs are generally a hardy species of fish and are capable of adapting to a wide range of water conditions, it is recommended that you research each specific species’ requirements and recreate those conditions in the aquarium in order for them to thrive.

Feeding

Barbs are omnivores and can be fed on a diet of flake or pellet based aquarium foods. Their diet should also be supplemented with occasional live foods and vegetables.

Barbs are a schooling species of fish and should ideally be kept in large groups of 10 or more.

Breeding

Most species of barb aren’t difficult to breed and will spawn readily in the aquarium when given adequate nutrition and good water conditions. It is however recommended that separate breeding tanks be used to breed them because the adults of the species will readily devour their own eggs and fry on sight.

Aquarium varieties

Tiger Barb, Tinfoil Barb, Cherry Barb, Clown Barb, Gold Barb, Checkered Barb, Mad Barb, Sixband Barb, Black Ruby Barb, etc.

Photo credit: Ranjithsiji/Wikimedia; sannse/Wikimedia

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).

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Barb Horse

Barb Horse Breed History It is believed that the Barb Horse, which is also known as the Berber Horse, originated from northern Africa’s coastal region, which used to be referred to as the Barbary Coast. There is also a bit of controversy surrounding whether Arabian horses and Barb horses share a single common ancestor, or if the Arabian is a predecessor of Barb horses. In fact, when the Barb Horse arrived in Europe, the breed was initially mistaken for the Arabian Horse, even though barb horses didn’t really share any of the physical characteristics of the Arabian, aside from being similar in size. Barb horses are ideal for general riding. Berber invaders in the early part of the 8th century ended up taking their horses into Europe. There, they bred their horses with Spanish horses and developed the Andalusian Horse. The Barb breed became highly valued throughout Europe after the 14th century. Noble families there had large racing stables. Meanwhile, in England, the breed was utilized to develop the beloved Thoroughbred for horse racing. Like the Arabian Horse, the Barb Horse likely has had a lot of influence on racing equine breeds. It is believed that this breed probably had more influence on racing horses than any other horse breed, but the Barb’s influence could also be seen in several other equine breeds, such as the Appaloosa, the American Quarter Horse, the Mustang, the Paso Fino, and the Argentinian Criollo. Today, the Barb Horse is primarily bred in Spain, Algeria, southern France, and Morocco. There are also different varieties of the Barb Horse, and these include the Moroccan Barb, Tunisian Barb, Abaco Barb, and Algerian Barb. Breed Traits

Vets Warn Dog Owners About the Dangers of Foxtail

Summer is the perfect time to hit a hiking trail with your dog. However, there’s one common danger dog owners don’t think about when they take their dogs out in the summer. As more people and their dogs are out and about, vets are once again warning owners about the dangers of foxtail grass. Foxtail grass is a common plant that grows across the country, including urban environments. Foxtails have sharp, barbed seeds, called grass awns, that can get into a dog’s fur and work their way into the dog’s skin. In mild cases, foxtails cause irritation and sometimes infection. When a  foxtail seed burrows in a dog’s skin it can cause painful lumps, sores, and abscesses, causing the dog to excessively lick and scratch the affected area.Foxtail seeds can work their way into any part of a dog’s body, but these pesky seeds are most commonly found embedded in the paws, ears, and nose. In an interview with KOIN, Dr. Ashley Burgeois, a board-certified pet dermatologist in Portland, Oregon, said “they can step on these little barbs, get them embedded in their fur. We can also see them go in other areas of the body, up the nose is not uncommon. As a dermatologist, I’ve taken quite a few out of ear canals.”Working and hunting dogs spend a lot of time off-trail and are at a greater risk of getting foxtail seeds stuck in their coat. But that doesn’t make city-dwellers entirely safe, as the wind can blow the seeds from anywhere right to your doorstep. Additionally, long-haired and curly-coated dog breeds are more susceptible than short-haired dogs, as this type of coat gives the grass awns plenty of surfaces to hold onto. There are several things owners can do to keep their dogs safe, Bourgeois said. It’s best to avoid walking your dog in foxtail-ladden areas, like hiking trails and fields. Secondly, check your dog for foxtail seeds after every outdoor outing. Bourgeois suggests combing the dog’s coat, looking between their toes, and flipping back their ears for a throughout inspection.Owners should also look for any signs of irritation, including redness in their dog’s ears, and watch for excessive licking and chewing of the paws. But that’s not all! “Do they start sneezing all of a sudden?” Bourgeois said. “If they get a grass awn up their nose, one of the sounds that we’ll hear of is very abrupt sneezing. So also just look for things that aren’t normal.”If there’s a chance that a foxtail seed is embedded in your dog’s skin, call your vet right away. When left untreated the awns can burrow deeper perforating a lung if inhaled. If the dog is treated immediately, vets usually remove the awn easily, flush the wound, and monitor the dog. Foxtail seeds are notorious for causing irritation, so monitoring is essential. All of this might sound frightening to dog parents, but Bourgeois explained that it’s easy to avoid severe problems. “If we’re being proactive, preventative, seeking care early if it’s not getting better or something acutely is happening, then you’re really going to prevent a lot of those extreme things from occurring,” she said.

What Are the Dangers of Foxtails to Dogs?

This grass is picturesque, but running through a field of it could pose serious problems for your pooch. Here’s why foxtails can be a pain to your dog. If you spend any time outdoors during the spring and summer, you have probably seen your fair share of foxtails. Foxtails are those tall, swaying grasses topped with seed clusters that resemble the tail of a fox. Though these grasses are lovely to behold, they can pose a serious threat to your dog. Here’s why foxtails are dangerous and how to avoid them. Related: 6 Ways To Properly Clean Dog Ears Why are Foxtails Dangerous to Dogs? Looking at a field full of foxtails swaying in the wind, you may not think that they look like a threat. What many dog owners do not know, however, is that foxtails can be very dangerous. The danger associated with foxtails has to do with the way these grasses spread their seed in the wild. That fluffy clump at the top of each foxtail is actually made up of myriad tiny seeds arranged in hair-like clusters. Each cluster of seeds is connected to a barb and, once the clusters are spread by the wind, they fall to the ground and the barb digs into the soil, keeping the cluster in place while bacteria inside the cluster gets to work. These bacteria actually start to break down cellular matter in the soil, helping to bury the seed in the ground where it germinates and grows into a new foxtail plant. Related: Poisonous Plants For Dogs The danger associated with foxtails for dogs all has to do with that little barb. The bacteria-filled barb that is designed to penetrate the soil after being spread can also penetrate your dog’s skin. When your dog brushes up against a foxtail, the seed clusters detach from the plant and get stuck in your dog’s fur. The barb on the end of each cluster keeps the seed in place while those pesky bacteria start to break down your dog’s fur, working its way through your dog’s coat and eventually into his skin, making him sick. Your dog’s symptoms could vary depending where the foxtail entered his body. Foxtails generally enter a dog’s body through the nasal passage, ears, eyes, or mouth – they can also enter into his lungs or penetrate the skin anywhere along the dog’s backbone. In addition to causing skin damage and a great deal of irritation, foxtails can also lead to serious infection if left inside your dog’s body. How to Protect Your Dog Against Foxtails You may not be able to prevent your dog from coming into contact with foxtails during the spring and summer months, but you should avoid large stands of foxtail if you see them. After you get home from your walk, give your dog’s body a good once-over to check for seed clusters. Pay particular attention to your dog’s feet – the seed clusters can get stuck between your dog’s toes and cause an abscess to form. Other places to look include your dog’s ears, around his eyes, in his nose, and around his genitals. For an extra layer of protection, go over your dog’s whole body with a brush or comb just in case there are any seed clusters you didn’t see. If you do come across a foxtail seed cluster, be very careful in removing it by using a pair of tweezers – be sure to get the barb as well as the seed. If your dog develops signs of swelling or irritation, take him to the vet. If the barb has become too deeply embedded to remove with tweezers he may need surgery. Something as tiny as a foxtail seed may not seem inherently dangerous but if it works its way into your dog’s skin it can cause some very serious problems. Always check your dog after every walk to look for hitchhikers – things like foxtail seeds, ticks, and other pests. A few minutes of your time is the best way to prevent serious problems!

Australian Kelpie

Australian Kelpie Basics The Australian Kelpie is a highly intelligent breed of herding dog that likes to work hard. The name for this breed is similar to a creature from Scottish and Irish mythology – a Kelpie is a magical water horse that has ill intentions toward humans, particularly children. In reality, the Australian Kelpie is nothing like this mythological creature – it is friendly and playful, always eager to please its human companions. If you are looking for a clever working breed, particularly for herding, the Australian Kelpie is definitely a breed to consider. The Australian Kelpie is a highly intelligent breed of herding dog that likes to work hard. Origin The origins of the Australian Kelpie can be traced back to the early collies that were imported into Australia during the early 19th century as working dogs. These working collies were bred with other breeds, possibly wild dingoes as well, to improve their abilities for working stock without direct supervision. Though dingoes were illegal to keep as pets, physical similarities between the dingo and the Australian Kelpie suggests that the two were crossed at some point in the past. The first dog to carry the Kelpie breed name was a black-and-tan female purchased from a litter by Jack Gleeson during the early 1870s. Different colors of Kelpie carry different names. Black Kelpies are often referred to as Barb Kelpies, after Barb, the Kelpie who won the Melbourne cup in 1866. Red Cloud Kelpies are the descendants of John Quinn’s Red Cloud that became well known throughout Australia. Related: Australian Cattle Dog Pedigree

Colorado Ranger Horse

Colorado Ranger Horse Breed History Also known as the Rangerbred Horse, the Colorado Ranger Horse is a North American equine breed that was developed within the High Plains of the state of Colorado. Mike Ruby, a horse enthusiast who was born in Ontario, Canada, is the founder of this breed. He bred two horses of Arabian and Barb ancestry and then showcased two of the offspring at the National Western Stock Show in the 1930s in Denver, Colorado. Once the horses were seen, curiosity from the public ensued. The breed was officially created in 1934, and it was named after its origins in the Colorado High Plains. The Colorado Ranger Horse is also known as the Rangerbred. Even though they look similar, the Colorado Ranger Horse isn’t a type of Appaloosa Horse. Instead, it is its own distinct breed with a distinct heritage. In fact, in order for a horse to be classified as a Colorado Ranger Horse, there must be pedigree documentation that proves that the horse’s heritage goes back to the first two horses bred by Mike Ruby. But the Colorado Ranger Horse’s ancestry dates even further back than Mike Ruby. General Ulysses S. Grant went to see Sultan Abdul Hamid in Turkey in 1878 while he was on a tour of the world. Before the General left, the Sultan showed his respect by giving him two stallions. One was an Arabian named Leopard and the other was a Barb whose name was Linden Tree. First, these two horses traveled to Virginia in 1879. There, Randolph Huntington started using them as the foundation sires for a new light harness horse breed. The project, however, was discontinued once the horseless carriage became popular. As a result, the horses were sent to the west. They spent some time in Nebraska, where they had offspring with native mares at Colby Ranch. The offspring already started drawing attention from breeders in the west, and A.C. Whipple of Colorado was able to get mares from Colby Ranch that were sired by either Leopard or Linden Tree. Along with a white stallion known as Tony, the Whipples created an extensive breeding program. Then Mike Ruby ended up purchasing two horses that would go on to serve as the foundation for the new Colorado Ranger Horse breed. After the Colorado Ranger Horse became an official breed in 1934, Mike Ruby served as the president of the Colorado Ranger Horse Association until 1942. Breed Traits

How Do I Know if My Dog is Afraid?

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

A Former Elvis Impersonator Adopts Elvis, the Dog Who No One Wanted

Elvis, the only dog who didn’t get adopted at Anti Cruelty’s Fall in Love adoption event, finally found a forever home with an owner who used to work as an Elvis Presley impersonator. A three-year-old pit bull terrier mix was the only pooch out of 22 dogs and 39 cats who didn’t find a forever home at the November 11 adoption event. After the event, Elvis had to be sent back to his kennel which served as his home for around four months.Shortly after the event, the shelter took to social media to ask for help finding this handsome boy a forever home. The post that has gone viral said: “Elvis is the only dog that didn’t find a home during our Fall in Love adoption event. He met a lot of potential adopters but sadly did not get adopted. Help us find Elvis a family to love!”In the post, the shelter described Elvis as a “three-year-old meatball” with “the silliest personality.”“His giant smile lights up every room he enters. Elvis is a snuggler, so he hopes you’re okay giving up your personal space.”Elvis arrived at the shelter as an injured stray dog. Since the pooch didn’t put weight on his hind leg, the shelter took X-rays which showed a fractured pelvis. Although the fracture healed completely during his stay at the shelter, Elvis might be prone to arthritis in the future. A few days later this handsome boy found his forever home! And this is where things get really interesting. The couple who adopted the cute pup has a special connection to him - one of them used to be an Elvis Presley impersonator.Loren Agron, one of the pup’s new dads, worked as an Elvis-impersonating waiter at Ed Debevic’s, a 1950s-themed diner where staff entertained customers with choreographed dance routines. Agron dressed up as Elvis Presley and called himself Elvis Parsley.“I wore a black cowboy shirt and quintessential giant Elvis sunglasses, I had long sideburns and my hair was all pumped up and slicked back,” Agron told The Washington Post.“Elvis has always been a big part of my life because I’ve always loved music from that era,” he added.First, Agron went to the shelter to meet Elvis alone, and then he came back with his partner, Drew Wilhelm. “While we were sitting in the waiting room to meet him, I felt like a father waiting for his newborn son to arrive,” said Wilhelm. “As soon as I saw him, I knew that was our dog,” he added. “He couldn’t stop jumping on us, he was so excited we were there to see him.”The couple adopted Elvis that day and took him to his forever home.  “Elvis has left the building,” the shelter wrote alongside a photo of the happy family. “His adopters have been waiting for the right time to welcome a dog into their family, and once they saw Elvis on the news, they couldn’t deny that it was fate.”The couple plans to keep the handsome pup’s legendary name and smitten with their new four-legged companion. “The couple is head over heels in love with their new family member and already has a dog bed and tons of toys waiting for him at his forever home,” the shelter wrote in a post. “Loren is a dedicated ACS supporter and has hosted many of the ACS’s fundraising events at Chicago’s fabulous drag queen, Debbie Fox. We couldn’t be happier for Elvis who finally got his happily ever after!”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

New Study Searches for the Secret Connection Between ‘Gifted’ Dogs

As dog parents, we all want to believe that our dog is the smartest, most incredible, most amazing dog out there. Right? But there is a select group of dogs whose talent and intelligence stand out above the rest. What makes these dogs so bright? That’s what a new study hopes to understand… Known as “Gifted Word Learner” (GWL) Dogs, these dogs display an impressive vocabulary by learning the names of dozens of their toys, with some learning as many as 125 toys by name! Interested in better understanding this phenomenon and what makes these dogs so naturally gifted, researchers at Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary set out to identify any commonalities between these pups. Their recent study, published in Scientific Reports on December 14, included 41 GWL dogs from nine countries: the US, the UK, Canada, Brazil, Norway, Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, and Hungary. They put out a call for ‘gifted’ dogs, asking owners to complete and submit a self-assessment following their detailed instructions and send the results in a video. Dogs that passed that phase were then given an online vocabulary assessment test to better assess their language skills. The owners were also given a questionnaire to provide a better understanding of each dog’s life experience. “In the questionnaire, we asked the owners about their dog’s life experience, their own experience in raising and training dogs, and about the process by which the dog came to learn the names of his/her toys,” explained Dr. Andrea Sommese, study co-author. Researchers discovered some interesting connections between the GWL dogs using all this information.

Study Finds That Cats Have Hundreds of Facial Expressions

If you’ve lived with cats for any length of time, you know that they express themselves in a variety of ways, and their faces can tell you a lot. Yet, there are some people who think that cats are expressionless, especially when compared to other animals. Well, science has once again come through to prove that cats are social and communicative; you just have to know how to read them.

UK Firefighters Get No Thanks from Rescued Cat

Trapped between brick walls, rescued feline's epic scowl captures readers attention.

What Should I Include in a Pet First Aid Kit?

As loving pet parents, we do everything possible to keep our furry companions safe and healthy. However, life is unpredictable, and accidents happen, so we must be prepared for unexpected emergencies. This includes ensuring we have a fully stocked, pet-friendly first aid kit available. In this article, we’ll discuss the essential items you should have on hand to care for your pet in those unforeseen moments. From basic cuts and scrapes to more severe injuries, you’ll be prepared to act as your pet’s first line of defense when it matters most. Can You Use a Human First Aid Kit on Dogs and Cats? Yes, sort of. Most of the items included in a human first aid kit can be used to treat your pet in the case of an emergency. You may be wondering – if they can use the same supplies, why do I need a first aid kit specifically for pets? Some items you won’t find in a human first aid kit may be necessary depending on your pet’s injury or ailment. These could address a problem that only a dog or cat could experience, or they may involve finding alternatives for human products that are unsafe for our pets, like human medications. What Human First Aid Products Can Be Used on Dogs and Cats? Most standard items in your first aid kit can be used on dogs and cats. For example, bandages, gauze pads, ice packs, and medical tape are all suitable for pets. They are the exact same items often included in both human and pet first aid kits. Tools like scissors, latex gloves, and tweezers will also be helpful when performing first aid on a pet. This means that if you currently have a standard human first aid kit at home, you are already well on your way to being prepared to take care of your pet in an emergency. To update your human first aid kit and make it suitable for pets, you will just need to add a few important items:

Study Finds That Pet Owners Experience Slower Cognitive Decline

Studies have shown that owning a pet can promote physical health in older people, but there isn’t enough research on the impact of dogs, cats, and other pets on cognitive function. As people age, their cognitive functions and memory decline. Although all people experience some level of cognitive decline as they age, some individuals can maintain good cognitive function well into advanced age. In contrast, others experience a sharp cognitive decline early on. Researchers have suggested various strategies to slow cognitive decline, from treating sleep apnea to improving diet and increasing exercise. In a new study, a team of researchers has set to discover whether pets, mainly cats and dogs, may help slow down cognitive decline in seniors.Scientists from the University of Maryland wanted to examine the link between pet ownership and changes in cognitive function of community-dwelling seniors. The goal of this study was to determine whether pet owners experience slower cognitive decline. They also wanted to see if there’s any difference if the pet is a dog or a cat, and whether dog walking might reduce the rate of cognitive decline. The team analyzed data from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, the longest-running study of aging in the U.S. Using the data from this study, enabled the research team to analyze the cognitive tests of 637 participants ages between 51 and 101.Of the participants, nearly one-third owned pets, with 11% owning cats and 13% owning dogs. Among dog owners, 69% reported walking their dogs regularly. Results revealed that during 10 years, all participants experienced a decline in cognitive functions as they aged. However, decline was slower in pet owners, compared to non-pet owners. Interestingly, the slower decline was more evident in some but not all tests used to determine cognitive function. Additionally, the results also showed some variations between cat and dog owners. For example, researchers noted that dog owners who walked their dogs regularly experienced even slower cognitive decline than cat owners and dog owners who didn’t walk their pets.This finding showcases just how beneficial walking your pooch can be for your overall health. Owning a dog can increase physical activity, as they need to be taken out for regular walks and daily exercise, which is known to be beneficial for health. “Older adult pet owners experienced less decline in cognitive function as they aged, after considering both their pre-existing health and age,” the study authors said.“Memory, executive function, language function, psychomotor speed, and processing speed deteriorated less over 10 years among pet owners than among non-owners and among dog owners than non-owners.”“Cat owners experienced less deterioration in memory and language function. Dog walking was also associated with slower deterioration in cognitive functioning.”Numerous other studies have shown that pets can provide social support and that interacting with a cat or dog can lower heart rate and blood pressure.This study is important for the scientific understanding of factors linked with cognitive decline. However, this study isn’t without limitations. Firstly, the study doesn’t allow any cause-and-effect conclusions to be made. Secondly, the study sample consisted of people with higher socioeconomic status and above-average cognitive abilities for their age. “Policymakers could use these findings to support the inclusion of pets in care plans, designing housing and neighborhoods for seniors that are friendly for dog walking and developing programs to support pet ownership and care for older adults’ pets while they are temporarily unable to do so,” concluded the authors of the study. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Do I Help A Dog Afraid of Car Rides?

Do you dream of travelling the world with your best friend by your side, but your dog turns into a nervous wreck every time you approach the car? If so, you’re not alone! Many dogs experience car anxiety to some degree, ranging from those who are slightly unsure of the vehicle to those who experience severe levels of stress. Luckily, there are options to manage your dog’s anxiety and even prevent it from happening in the future. In this article, we’ll explore various ways to improve your dog’s relationship with the car, from gradual desensitization to the use of calming treats and other products to make your next road trip easier for everyone! Is Driving Stressful for Dogs? Whether your dog finds car rides to be stressful will vary from dog to dog. Many pups are excited by simply hearing the phrase “car ride” and love sharing that experience with their human family members. However, for some dogs, the idea of getting into a vehicle instantly triggers feelings of stress and anxiety. As dog parents, the best thing we can do is pay careful attention to our dog's nonverbal communication and body language. Although dogs may not be able to speak English, they do a pretty good job of communicating how they are feeling if we know how to listen. How Do I Know if My Dog is Scared in the Car? Interpreting your dog’s body language often involves noting several different behaviors, as fear and anxiety can easily mimic excitement in many ways. For example, fearful dogs may whine when approaching a vehicle because they are afraid of getting into the car. However, approaching the same way with an excited dog may trigger a whine as they anticipate the fun ahead. Other aspects of their behavior, like their stance (standing tall and confident versus hunched low to the ground with their tail tucked), can help you better translate what your dog is trying to tell you.Some of the common signs that a dog is feeling afraid or anxious include: Excessive panting or yawning Licking the lips Whale eyes (showing the whites of the eyes)Large, dilated pupilsEars pressed forward or back against the headCowering or attempting to hideTail tucked between the legs or up and stuffShaking or tremblingSubmissive urinationStaring intently at the trigger Displacement behaviors like sneezing or itchingRefusal to take treats (even if they are typically food-driven)The most important thing to remember is that every dog is different. Your dog may display any combination of the symptoms listed above. No one knows your dog better than you. Trust your gut if you feel that something is off, even if it doesn’t fit the stereotypical fear response.

A New Four-Legged Robot May Soon Replace Guide Dogs

Robots aren’t only taking human jobs! Our four-legged colleagues may soon need new jobs because there’s a new AI-powered robot guide dog in town. Named RoboGuide, the four-legged robot guide dog was born and bred at the University of Glasgow. The research team that created the robotic pooch, says that RoboGuide could help blind and visually impaired people move more freely in indoor spaces. Their new design solves some of the most common problems in assistive tech.“One significant drawback of many current four-legged, two-legged, and wheeled robots is that the technology which allows them to find their way around can limit their usefulness for the visually impaired,” said Olaoluwa Popoola, the project’s principal investigator. “Robots which use GPS to navigate, for example, can perform well outdoors but often struggle in indoor settings, where signal coverage can weaken. Others, which use cameras to ‘see’, are limited by the line of sight, which makes it harder for them to safely guide people around objects or around bends.”To overcome these limitations, the RoboGuide uses a series of sensors that analyze its surroundings. Software created by the team allows the robotic pooch to find optimal routes between locations and interpret sensor data in real-time, so it can avoid hitting obstacles while guiding a blind or visually impaired person.This robotic pooch also obeys its owner. Thanks to large models, RoboGuide understands speech, and can even talk to its handler. The RoboGuide was showcased at the university’s Mazumdar-Shaw Advanced Research Center. The team working on the prototype said that the robotic pooch uses several innovative technologies and that their goal is to release a complete version in the following years.Professor Muhammad Imran, dean of graduate studies at the James Watt School of Engineering and co-investigator on the project said: “Our assistive technology project for the visually impaired embodies innovation, fostering inclusivity.”“In Glasgow, we’re pioneering world-changing technologies that hold the potential to transform lives and reshape societal norms. This achievement was made possible through collaboration with industry and charity partners and co-creating the design with the invaluable input of end users.”The prototype was tested for the first time with volunteers at the Hunterian, Scotland’s oldest museum, in December. During the trial,  the robotic pooch guided the volunteers around the museum and provided interactive speeches on six different exhibits. With an estimated 2.2 billion people in the world living with some form of vision loss, the team hopes to create a commercial product to help guide visually impaired people indoors.“Ultimately, our aim is to develop a complete system which can be adapted for use with robots of all shapes and sizes to help blind and partially sighted people in a wide range of indoor situations,” said Wasim Ahmed, who’s also a co-investigator on the study.  The RoboGuide project is backed by two leading charities. Both the Forth Valley Sensory Centre Trust (FVSC) and the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) are supporting the development of RoboGuide. “Mobility is a big issue for the blind and partially sighted community,” said Jacquie Winning, the chief executive of FVSC. “RoboGuide is a wonderful solution to that problem, and we are delighted to help test this innovative and creative robot.”James Adams, the director of RNIB Scotland, added: “We’re delighted to be supporting the research and development of technology that could be part of making the world more accessible and empowering blind and partially sighted people to live their lives confidently.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Hundreds of Cats and Dogs Saved from an Animal Testing Laboratory

In a groundbreaking action, the Beagle Freedom Project (BFP), a non-profit organization that rescues animals used in testing, has shut down an animal testing facility in Nowata, Oklahoma, and rescued over 200 dogs and cats from certain death.This monumental action closed down one-third of the flea and tick product testing industry in the U.S., ending years of cruel experimentation on an untold number of animals, and saving thousands of cats and dogs from the same dreadful fate.Most of the animals kept in these facilities are bred specifically for testing, meaning they spend their entire lives in terrible conditions. According to the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), animals in laboratories are kept alone in steel cages, with little room to move, and devoid of animal and human companionship.More than 200 cats, dogs, and a family of pigs were kept in horrifying conditions in the 30-acre facility in Nowata, Oklahoma. The poor animals were kept outside in the cold, in nothing but small tents to serve as a shelter. Those kept inside were housed inside tiny cages placed on hard concrete. In the past, the Nowata laboratory has been the subject of many USDA citations and violations. The animals kept there had to endure aggravating pain and discomfort caused by fleas and ticks breeding on their bodies. To make matters worse, the cats and dogs were forced to wear cones so they couldn’t relieve the itching and the pain.“We had to end this,” the president and founder of the Beagle Freedom Project, Shannon Keith, said. “Rather than rescue the dogs and cats one by one, while the facility continued its cruel operations, several months ago, we took a chance and approached the owner of the facility about relinquishing his USDA license and ending operations.”And they were successful! Animal Health Innovations Inc. has ceased operations and surrendered its USDA license. “The importance of this monumental achievement cannot be overstated. Not only have we rescued hundreds of animals from being tested on and certain death, we have also created a pathway for others to do the same,” said Keith to Agusta Free Press.But, that’s not the end. The Beagle Freedom Project plans to transform the former laboratory into a rehabilitation and adoption center called the Freedom Fields - a place where the rescued animals will receive medical attention and the love they deserve.“This has never before been accomplished. We are overjoyed that not only will we give more than 200 dogs and cats their freedom and identity, but that we will also transform an animal testing facility into a place of hope, happiness, rehabilitation, and love,” added Keith.The new space should consist of a doggy park, catio, cat cafe, dog dens, groom room, and lots of open space for dogs and cats to run around and play in. Additionally, there will be a barn for farm animals and a visiting center where the visitors can learn about animal testing before meeting the adoptable animals. Extensive renovations are already underway at Freedom Fields, including replacing small metal cages and makeshift outdoor tents surrounded with electrical fencing with warm and sturdy barns for large farm animals. A landscaped dog park and cozy indoor/outdoor spaces will make rescued cats and dogs feel at home. According to Keith, there are safer and better methods of flea and tick control, and these products don’t have to be tested on animals. Currently, the Beagle Freedom Project is arranging the closure of another large laboratory and is working with companies to provide safer and more ethical methods of flea and tick control for cats and dogs.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Expats May Need to Leave their Pets Behind as Travel Costs Skyrocket

Animal travel has always been expensive, but it’s about to become unaffordable for many pet lovers. Pet owners moving abroad may be forced to leave their pets behind after animal travel costs have gone up by as much as 400 percent!IAG Cargo, a sister company to British Airways, Vueling, and Aer Lingus, has recently announced that it was raising travel prices along some routes beginning March 1. This unexpected move shocked pet owners with relocation plans, particularly those moving to and from Britain and the United States. “To reflect the complexities of this bespoke service and the cost of providing the very best care for pets traveling as cargo, we have made some amendments to our prices,” a spokesperson for IAG Cargo said in a statement. This shipping company is mostly used by military personnel to move their pets abroad while deployed. After three years at their duty station in the UK, Sara and her family are moving back to the U.S. The family’s two dogs, Bentley and Ghost, are booked on a British Airways flight on 1 March.Under the current policy, IAG Cargo only accepts a booking for a pet transfer up to six weeks before the flight. The company then confirms the space has been requested. Two weeks before the flight, once the planes have been scheduled on that route, the IAG Cargo confirms the booking, locking in the price.Initially, Sara’s family was quoted $1,450 for a flight from London to Baltimore for both dogs. However, due to the recent price hike, the travel price for the dogs has jumped to $6,500! And that’s without the administration fees and the cost of the agency the family is using to arrange the cargo shipment. “We are paying out of our own pocket for this, and we just bought a house in our new location,” said Sara to BBC. “Our dogs are like our children, we would do anything for them but that doesn’t mean it’s not devastating for our finances.”The family’s shipping agent found another airline that could ship their dogs at a lower price. The catch - they would have to make a seven-hour round trip to collect the dogs from another airport. Sara explained that her dogs are small in size and that she believes people shipping large-size dogs could face shipping costs over $10,000.“I already know a number of people who did not bring their pets [to the UK] because of the costs to bring them one way… People are going to be shocked,” she added.Details about the new pricing and affected routes are still unclear, but some companies that work with IAG Cargo are already seeing the effects. Kimberly Cirone, a director at Pets Abroad UK, a pet relocation company that assists pet owners with travel arrangements and works with airlines, said that the costs of pet transport between Britain and the United States have increased by 400 percent without warning, consideration, or explanation.The unexpected price hike has left many military families in turmoil as they are unable to gather the necessary funds in time to have their pets shipped back home. “It’s a huge amount to organize, and within days or weeks of arriving one of those family members may be sent on to areas of conflict. The dog or cat is hugely important, it is the family’s companion when one partner is away fighting and this will be hugely distressing for them.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

The Season of Giving Begins With A Leap

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

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

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

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