Banana-Rama Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe

by Amy Tokic

Published: February 6th, 2015

What do you do with those leftover bananas that are going bad? Don’t throw them out – use them in a homemade dog treat. I had a couple of really ripe bananas this week, so they became a main ingredient in my Banana-Rama Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe. My whole kitchen smelled like banana bread… only better, thanks to the mouth-watering aroma of the coconut flour.

Banana-Rama Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe

Makes about 25-30 cookies

Ingredients:

2 cups coconut flour

1/8 cup flaxseed meal

½ cup quinoa flour

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

2 bananas

2 tablespoons peanut butter

2 tablespoons coconut oil

3 eggs

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients (flour, flaxseed and cinnamon). Set aside.
In a smaller bowl, mix the bananas, peanut butter, coconut oil and eggs until well combined.
Mix the wet ingredients slowly into the dry ingredients until combined. The dough will be crumbly, but moist.
Roll the dough into fist shaped balls. Place on parchment paper and roll out to ¼ thickness. Use a cookie cutter to press out shapes and place on cookie sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes. Place them on a cooling rack. Keep them in an air tight container and store in refrigerator or freezer.

Because it’s so close to Valentine’s Day, I used a dog-safe candy icing on the cookies. I melted the red wafers in a double boiler and used an icing bottle to decorate. The icing is always optional – I just wanted to do something a little special for Oscar on Valentine’s Day.

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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Quinoa Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipes

I love quinoa – I eat this super seed at least once a week because it’s grain and gluten free and it’s high in protein. And this is a people food that’s equally super for dogs. Quinoa has been linked to everything from preventing heart disease and cancer, as well as an antioxidant and can reduce the risk of diabetes. It really was a no-brainer to use it in my Quinoa Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe (well that, and it does have quinoa as the title as the recipe!). Quinoa Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipes Makes 20 cookies Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup quinoa flour 3/4 cup buckwheat flour 1/3 cup molasses 1/2 cup water 1/3 cup olive oil 1 tablespoon honey 2 eggs Directions: Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.Using a food processor, add quinoa and buckwheat and mix well. Add in molasses and honey. In a separate bowl, lightly beat egg and add the oil and water. Add this mixture slowly to the food processor until a dough ball forms. If the flour mixture sticks to the bowl, turn off the processor and use a spatula to get it off the sides.The dough should be soft, but not wet, making it easy to work with. Using a tablespoon, scoop mixture and roll dough into balls in your hands. Softly flatten with the balls of your hands and place on the cookie sheets.Bake for 30 minutes.Store treats in an airtight container in the fridge or the freezer. The dough wasn’t stiff enough to use cookie cutters, but I still had fun with the design. I just used a teaspoon for the dog pad and a dropper for the dog toes.

Chickpea Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe

I’m learning all about grain-free recipes this month. And I’m also realizing that Oscar is acquiring a taste for them! If your dog can’t digest grains, there’s no reason why he can’t enjoy a tasty, homemade biscuit. This time around, I’m pleased to present my Chickpea Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe. This type of flour is full of flavor, dietary fiber and protein. Because it’s a bean, it’s not considered a grain – which is good news for dogs who can’t digest gluten. And this recipe has the extra benefit of banana, peanut butter and flax seed meal. Chickpea Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe Makes about 25 medium-sized cookies Ingredients: 2 cups chickpea flour 1 banana 3 tablespoons peanut butter 1 large egg 1 1/2 tablespoons flax meal Directions: Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.In a small bowl, mix banana, peanut butter and egg until completely combined and smooth.In a large bowl, mix the flour and flax seed. Add the wet and dry ingredients together until the dough comes together.Warning: This is going to be some tough dough! Set parchment paper on the counter to roll the dough out onto. Roll the dough to a 1/2- to 1/4-inch thickness and cut out the cookies using a cookie cutter of choice. Transfer the cookies to a parchment-lined baking sheet.Bake the cookies for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool treats on cooling rack store in fridge or freezer in airtight container. This was my first time working with chickpea flour. I found the dough tough to work with and the smell was a bit strange at first – it had a bit of a savory scent. But Oscar liked them and that’s always my indicator of a job well done!

Healthy Hound Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe

We love our dogs and we want the best of everything for them. This heart-felt sentiment is the inspiration behind the Healthy Hound Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe. Using garbanzo bean and coconut flour, these homemade treats are grain free. Add the benefits of coconut oil, flaxseed meal and turmeric (which is used to detoxify and treat stomach ailments), and you’ve got yourself a healthy treat to give to the pooch who rules your heart. Healthy Hound Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe Makes about 30 cookies Ingredients: 1 1/2 cup garbanzo bean flour 1/2 cup coconut flour 1 teaspoon parsley 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 2 tablespoons brewer’s yeast 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional) ½ cup chicken broth ½ cup coconut oil Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.In a small pot over medium heat, bring the chicken broth and coconut oil to a boil.In a large bowl, mix flours, brewer’s yeast, flaxseed meal, turmeric, parsley and garlic powder.Add broth/oil mixture to flour and mix well.On a piece of parchment paper, roll the dough into a ¼ to ½ thickness and cut with cookie cutters in desired shapes.Bake for 15-20 minutes on a parchment lined cookie sheet. Take out of oven and let cool. Store in airtight containers in fridge or freezer. Some pet parents don’t feel comfortable feeding garlic to their dogs, so feel free to leave it out. It won’t affect the recipe’s outcome in any way.

Gluten-Free Dog Treat Recipe

*Editor’s Note: Originally, we had posted this recipe as a grain-free do treat recipe, but had included gluten-free oats and rice flour in the recipe. We realize that these are considered grains and are gluten-free, so we’ve changed it to a gluten-free recipe. To make this grain-free, take out the rolled oats completely or substitute with 1 sweet potato, and use coconut flour instead of rice flour. Why Gluten-Free For Dogs? Gluten is a protein that is found in some cereal grains and wheat. But there are some gluten-free grains like corn, quinoa, rice and Amaranth Millet. Just like in humans, some dogs have gluten sensitivity and gluten-free treats are a nice way to give them some love. What are signs of a potential gluten sensitivity in dogs? If your dog does a lot of itching and scratching, particularly at his paws, he may be suffering from a gluten intolerance. Other signs of gluten intolerance in dogs include: Dull, poor coat Red, itchy pawsFrequent diarrheaWeight lossChronic ear infectionsConstant chewing or licking of paws Just like you’d expect to do in human children, if your dog shows some of those symptoms, you’ll want to explore what happens if you go gluten-free with him. Long-term battling of gluten intolerance or allergy isn’t good for his dog gut. Good dog gut health is important to his overall immune system as a leaky gut will basically attack his own body. This can affect nutrient absorption and make it hard for him to thrive. How Do I Know If My Dog Has Gluten Intolerances? Your vet will likely want to rule any other issues out and will look for symptoms that accompany. They likely may run a blood test or look at a fecal sample to be sure nothing else is the issue and they may even want to to endoscopy if symptoms are severe. They will likely talk to you about allergy tests that can detect the difference between a true allergy and an insensitivity. It’s important to know the difference because an allergy could even be life-threatening. You could also do an elimination diet as you would with a human and that information can help you and your veterinarian decide what’s going on with your dog. I love making Oscar and the other office dogs homemade dog treats and was tickled when I came across this gluten-free dog treat recipe. I love that it’s made with simple, all-natural ingredients. Seriously, you would probably pay $10-$20 for these treats in an upscale dog boutique. But with this gluten-free dog treat, you’ll be going against the grain and making your dog a healthy and homemade treat that will save you big bucks. Gluten-Free Dog Treat Recipe Makes about 30-40 cookies 1 banana, mashed 1/2 cup of mashed blueberries 3 tablespoons natural creamy peanut butter 1 egg, beaten 1 3/4 cup coconut/rice flour 2/3 cup gluten free rolled oats 1/3 cup of warm water 1. Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. In a small bowl, mix together the banana, blueberries, peanut butter and egg until completely combined. In a medium bowl, add the flour and rolled oats and mix. Add the wet and dry ingredients together and combine until the dough forms. If the mixture is too dry add a bit of water to moisten the dough. 2. Roll out your dough onto a piece of coconut-floured wax paper (the dough is sticky and the flour will help). Roll the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness and cut out using a cookie cutter. Place cut out cookies on a non-stick baking sheet. 3. Bake cookies for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown. Take cookies out of the oven and let them cool. 4. Ask your dog to sit or perform a trick and give him a treat! If you made these treat, we’d love to know how they turned out. You can post pictures on our Facebook page or leave a comment down below.

Grain-Free Coconut and Banana Dog Treat Recipe

Coconut flour makes any treat gluten and grain free. Plus, who doesn’t like the taste of coconut – om nom nom! With the Grain-Free Coconut and Banana Dog Treat Recipe, we added a touch of coconut oil for added health benefits, as well as almond milk, which is lactose free and safe for dogs (unless, of course, they have an allergy to almonds). Add banana, peanut butter and banana to the mix, and you’ve got yourself a treat the whole family will want to eat. Why Grain-Free Treats? In the last several years, veterinary cardiologists have been increasingly disturbed by the number of dogs who suffered from dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). DCM is a heart condition that decreases a dog’s heart’s ability to pump blood through its body. Some breeds, like Retrievers, are more prone to DCM, but cardiologists were concerned because they seemed to see more dogs of various breeds not previously having issue being diagnosed. The FDA actually opened an investigation in the matter. They found that 90% of the dogs with DCM they studied were on a grain-free diet and 93% of those contained lentils or peas. A relationship between grain-free diets and DCM hasn’t still been fully proven, but many vets have found that when dogs were taken off grain-free diets, their conditions resolved. Still, many dogs do benefit from the digestive help that a grain-free diet and treats can offer, so here’s a well-loved recipe. Grain-Free Coconut and Banana Dog Treat Recipe Makes about 20-30 cookies Ingredients: 1 cup coconut flour 2 egg 1/3 cup natural peanut butter 1 banana, mashed 1 Tbsp honey 1 Tbsp coconut oil ½ cup almond milk Directions: Preheat oven to 300 degrees.Stir egg, peanut butter, banana, coconut oil and honey in a bowl and mix well.Stir in the coconut flour and mix well. Add almond milk as needed to help dough come together.Coconut flour recipes are crumbly, so you won’t be able to roll it out. Instead, scoop your tablespoon portions and place the balls on cookie sheets.Bake cookies for 20-25 minutes.Remove from oven and cool on wire rack. Now, how good did they smell coming out of the oven? Please let us know how your dog liked them by leaving a comment down below. And on a baking note, the coconut flour has a very different consistency than regular flour – it doesn’t hold together all that well. If you have any tips on how to keep coconut cookies from falling apart, please share them with us.

World’s Largest Cruise Ship Welcomes a Super Cute Dog as a Resident

“Icon of the Seas” might have been known as the largest cruise ship until this year, but now, everybody will know it as the ship with a permanent doggy resident – Rover, a cute Lab with (apparently) four sea legs!Ever since coming on board, Rover has been the focus of social media posts by the cruise ship’s crew members. Based on the posts, the adorable pooch boarded the ship while it was stationed in Ponce, Puerto Rico, just as it was about to finish its journey in Miami, Florida. And soon enough, Rover, who is a young  Labrador Retriever, became the ship’s very own mascot and likely everybody’s favorite resident.After all, Rover was so friendly and loveable that it took only one day for the crew to decide that he would become the permanent resident of the vessel – that takes some serious charm, ya know?“Meet Rover,” one Instagram post said, “the Resident Mascot of the Icon. He just came on board today. He’s a friendly Labrador who’s going to be the permanent resident of the World’s Largest Cruise Ship, Icon of the Seas.”The crew all quickly gathered around to ensure that Rover would be given the best possible care in his new role of “Chief Dog Officer”. Allison, one of the crew members is originally from Australia and has been a member of the crew for five years. She ensures that Rover receives plenty of treats and a ton of love. "As a crew member on Icon, Rover's job is to bring joy to her fellow crew and guests onboard. All the while, she gets to explore the Caribbean shores and beautiful ports," she said. Even though Rover had been on the ship for just a short time, he did not fail to capture everyone’s heart. He enjoyed walks on the “lido” deck and even visited the Captain in The Bridge - a privilege reserved only for the select few. And, in no time, many other crew members chimed in on social media welcoming the doggo onboard. "We are absolutely thrilled to introduce our newest team member, Rover, who has joined us as a permanent resident aboard the magnificent Icon of the Seas," said  @godwin_fernandes2000.So much so, that even Royal Caribbean, the company behind the Icon of the Seas, posted about Rover on their own official account! Now, Rover found his new forever home – in the unlikeliest of all places: a cruise ship. And if you want to follow the adventures of this sea-faring puppy, be sure to check out his Instagram account  @chiefdogrover where they’ll be documented!

More Dogs Than Ever Euthanized as Shelters Hit Capacity

Each year millions of cats and dogs enter shelters and rescues nationwide. Almost a million more animals have entered and lingered in the nation’s shelters in the last three years, resulting in an ongoing capacity crisis. Last year, 3.2 million dogs entered shelters and rescue organizations nationwide. More than 359,000 dogs were euthanized in 2023, compared to 330,000 cats that were euthanized last year. This marks a four-year peak in non-live outcomes for dogs and the first time the number of dogs euthanized has surpassed the number of euthanized cats.  These heartbreaking findings were published in an annual report of shelter populations compiled by Shelter Animals Count, an Atlanta-based nonprofit organization founded in 2012. “Everywhere you turn, the shelters are in crisis,” said the organization’s executive director Stephanie Filer. “It’s truly about an imbalance of animals coming in at faster rates than they’re leaving.”According to Filer, for years cats were considered most at risk because they entered shelters at high rates, but faced low adoption rates. However, focused efforts to reverse these trends are giving results, and the newest data shows a positive shift.“We have seen major positive change,” said Filer. “Adoption rates are high and intakes have decreased, and there are efforts to keep cats at home or in their communities.”Unfortunately, dog programs are suffering, with adoption rates significantly lower than in recent years. “Too many dogs are entering shelters and being left behind,” added Filer, according to USA Today. “Unlike cat adoptions, which continue to increase, dog adoptions have essentially flatlined.”When people think of animal shelters, most imagine scores of large-sized mixed breeds and pit bulls. But in reality, there are purebreds like huskies, French bulldogs, Labradors, and even designer dogs.The one thing no animal advocate thought possible happened - the rates of dog euthanasia surpassed the rates of cat euthanasia for the first time in a long time. “The real reason we’re saying, ‘Wow,’ is that it wasn’t that way for a lot of years. And now it is,” said Filer.More than 6.5 million cats and dogs ended up in U.S. shelters and rescues in 2023. While the number of intakes remained relatively steady, this was the fourth consecutive year of overpopulation. While more dogs were adopted in 2023 than in 2022, the adoption rates were insufficient to meet the demand.The high cost of living, job loss, and housing cost challenges are the main reasons adoption rates aren’t keeping up with animal intake. At the end of 2023, an additional 70,000 cats and 107,000 dogs are waiting for a forever home in one of the many shelters and rescues nationwide. “With more animals entering shelters than leaving, animal welfare organizations and their communities need to continue working together to keep pets in loving homes and out of shelters, including finding ways to increase access to veterinary care and advocating for pet-friendly housing policies,” said Matt Bershadker, president and the CEO of ASPCA.Experts agree that the promotion of shelter adoptions is the best way to solve the ongoing capacity crisis. Adopting an animal from a shelter saves a life, but it also supports the struggling shelters and their staff. Although adopting a cat or a dog from a shelter isn’t possible for everyone, there are other things you can do to help. Volunteering in your local shelter, fostering a pet, or donating are great ways to get involved and help alleviate the shelter crisis.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Scientists Found a New Type of Training that Makes Dogs Better Behaved

Training a dog can seem intimidating, and doesn’t always yield the expected results. Luckily for all dog owners out there, a new study has found another way to train your four-legged companion. Scientists at Aberystwyth University, located in Wales, United Kingdom, have discovered that scent training could improve pet dogs' behavior. The study shows that pet dogs trained to detect scents have a better mental ability and capacity to carry out certain tasks.Previous research only compared highly trained working dogs, like assistance dogs or search and rescue dogs, with untrained pet dogs. Now, for the first time, the researchers have tested the effects of scent training on two groups of untrained dogs. A research team from Aberystwyth University led the study in collaboration with Emma Stoker, owner of Puppy Plus, a dog training company based in Newton, Wales.The study involved 40 dogs of varying degrees of training, whose owners were asked to fill out a questionnaire with basic information about their pet. Researchers gave the dogs two tasks, both requiring impulse control. In the first test, called the “detour task”, the dogs needed to navigate a transparent barrier to get food. The second “A not B task”, tested the dogs’ ability to switch their choice from one pot to another, depending on where food was placed. Researchers separated the dogs into two groups to see whether their ability to detect scents would improve their cognitive ability. The dogs in the first group were given the “detour task” and had to navigate around a transparent barrier to get a treat. In the second group, the researchers said “Look” to the dog to get its attention and then showed it a treat before hiding it under a pot. Dogs in the second group underwent scent training, separated into three phases - familiarization, training, and test phase. In the first phase, only one pot was used. In the training phase, two pots were used, and in the final, test phase, three pots were used.Pate scent was rubbed on all pots to make it harder for the dogs to sniff out where the treat was hidden. If the dog didn’t respond within 20 seconds of being released to find the treat, or if it picked the wrong pot, the dog was shown the treat but wasn’t rewarded. Researchers discovered that dogs who received scent training performed the tasks more efficiently than those who weren’t trained. The study also showed that scent training improved dogs’ inhibitory control and helped them focus on completing a specific task. What’s important for dog owners to know is that poor impulse control is believed to be the main cause of a lot of unwanted behaviors in dogs, such as house soiling and destructive behavior. This new study suggests that scent training could help owners improve their dogs’ behavior. Dr. Sarah Dalesman, the co-author of the study, said: “This research shows that dogs that train primarily in scent work have stronger inhibitory control, suggesting that this training can have a positive effect on their behavior.”“Scent training is offered by a lot of dog trainers, and easy to practice at home. It might offer a great way for owners to improve their pets’ behavior, and we’re aiming to test this theory in future studies.”If scent training isn’t compatible with the way your pup learns, you can try agility or puzzle training. Puzzle training provides mental and physical stimulation and can come in handy when a dog needs to stay home alone or confined. Agility training is another option. Agility is a sport in which you direct your dog through a pre-set obstacle course allowing them to gain problem-solving skills. Try different training activities with your dog to find out what you and your pooch enjoy doing together the most.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Common Garden Plants That Can Send Your Dog into Cardiac Arrest

Spring is finally upon us! For dog owners, spring is always a welcoming sight as it signals the start of longer walks in the park and more time in the garden. The backyard is usually a fun place for you and your pooch to play and run around. However, certain types of plants are dangerous to dogs and can make your backyard a safety hazard. Experts advise that some spring plants and flowers, both indoors and outdoors, can be harmful to your pooch and should be avoided at all costs. Some of these plants are known to cause upset stomachs, itching, vomiting, and, in severe cases, even cardiac arrest in dogs. Craig Wilson, co-founder, director, and gardening expert at Gardeners Dream, has listed the toxic flowers and plants you should keep from the home and garden if you have a dog. DaffodilsDid you know that daffodils, one of the most popular heralds of spring, are poisonous to both cats and dogs? These trumpet-shaped flowers contain a toxic compound called lycorine which causes stomach pain and diarrhea when ingested. Bulbs are the most toxic part of the daffodil plant, but dogs can also get sick after consuming the flowers. Even drinking the water from a vase that contains daffodils can cause toxicity in dogs.Tulips All parts of the tulip plant - bulbs, stems, leaves, and flowers - are toxic to both cats and dogs. The bulb stores the highest concentration of toxins, making it the most toxic part of the plant. Most dogs will experience drooling, diarrhea, and vomiting after consuming tulips. In severe cases, dogs can experience heart problems and difficulty breathing.IrisesColorful and hardy irises are a popular flower in many household gardens. Unfortunately, irises are toxic to dogs and can make your pooch sick if ingested or touched. Irises contain irisin, a toxic compound that triggers tissue irritation when swallowed or touched. The bulbs and rhizomes hold the highest concentration of irisin, making this plant particularly hazardous to dogs who like to dig.Hyacinths Many people like planting hyacinths in their gardens, but these tall and vibrant plants are harmful to dogs. Hyacinths belong to the same family as tulips and contain calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals are present in all areas of the plant and are shaped like needles. When ingested, these crystals can pierce a dog’s soft tissues, causing severe pain.Symptoms of hyacinth poisoning also include diarrhea, vomiting, abnormal breathing, increased heart rate, and convulsions. If you suspect your pooch has ingested any part of the hyacinth plant, take them to the vet as soon as possible. BluebellsAll parts of the bluebell plant contain a toxic compound called glycosides. Not only are bluebells harmful to cats and dogs, but this plant is also toxic to horses and cattle. If any part of the bluebell plant is consumed, it can cause stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. When eaten in large quantities, bluebells can be fatal.Hydrangeas Many gardeners love the look of hydrangeas in the spring and fall, but dog owners beware - hydrangeas are toxic to dogs. Dogs can become poisoned from eating any part of the hydrangea plant, as they all contain cyanogenic glycoside.Chewing plants with this toxic compound releases cyanide and can result in loss of appetite, vomiting, depression, and increased heart rate. Munching on the flowers, buds, leaves, or bark of the hydrangea plant can make dogs sick, so keep a close eye on your pooch whenever they are sniffing around a hydrangea plant.These are just some of the most common plants that can make your dog sick, but there are more! If your pooch likes to munch on plants, it’s best not to leave them unsupervised in the garden.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Study Finds Differences in Pain Sensitivity Between Dog Breeds

Although you might think that all dogs experience pain the same, it turns out that different dog breeds have varying levels of pain sensitivity.

First-ever Canine Parvovirus Treatment Offers Hope for Sick Puppies

Parvovirus - a single word no dog owner wants to hear. Canine parvovirus is one of the most deadly conditions that affect thousands of puppies in the U.S. yearly.Until now, there has been no specific cure for parvovirus, with treatment relying on supportive care. But that changed in May when USDA granted a conditional license for the first-ever canine parvovirus treatment.Developed by Elanco Animal Health Incorporated, the Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody is a single-dose intravenous injection that has been shown to reduce the length of hospital stay and increase the survival rate of dogs diagnosed with parvovirus. In Elanco’s clinical trials, “zero dogs died when treated with Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody,” said Kristen Zersen, DVM, DACVECC, assistant professor of small animal emergency and critical care at Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. That’s fantastic news considering that parvo’s mortality rate is around 91% for dogs not treated with supportive care.While the treatment efficiency study focused on eight-week-old puppies, Zersen said that safety studies have shown that the treatment is well tolerated by puppies as young as six weeks old. “The puppies treated with Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody had significantly faster times to resolution of vomiting, inappetence, and lethargy,” said Zersen. Elanco’s Monoclonal Antibody is the first and only treatment available for parvo which affects around 330,000 dogs each year. Administered intravenously in a single dose, this groundbreaking treatment works by binding to the virus directly, preventing it from entering into host cells. Another great thing about this treatment is that it can be given to dogs at any stage of the disease. The effects of the treatment may vary from one dog to the next but according to Zersen, “Overall the treatment makes for less time, less worry, and less labor helping the dog to feel better faster.”That’s a positive change considering how this deadly disease has been treated in the past. “Traditional canine parvovirus treatment can consist of 24/7 care, three to five days of hospitalization, high pet owner costs, and emotional stress with no guaranteed outcome,” explained Zersen. “Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody offers a targeted solution. Dogs are treated with one intravenous dose that’s highly effective and proven to decrease mortality and may provide faster resolution of the symptoms of this potentially deadly disease.”Elanco expects to obtain full USDA approval in 2024, but veterinarians are able to get the medicine in the meantime. An eight-week-old pit bull mix was one of the first to receive this lifesaving treatment and knows exactly how effective monoclonal antibodies are. As soon as Cookie started to show symptoms of parvo, including lethargy, lack of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea, her owner brought her to the Fix Project’s Parvo ICU.There, a test confirmed that Cookie has, indeed, contracted parvo. Cookie received Elanco’s Monoclonal Antibody treatment and was admitted to the ICU for supportive care. “We gave the injection, placed a catheter, and gave her the rest of our protocol. And the beautiful part about the drug was we had her in and out. We parvo tested her on Friday, and she came back strong positive. By Sunday, she was eating. And then by Monday, we parvo tested her, and she was going home that day,” Dr. Andrew Cabrera, veterinarian and medical director at The Fix Project, told People in an interview. Cookie was one of the first pups to be treated with Elanco’s Monoclonal Antibody treatment, but she wasn’t the last. Dr. Cabrera shares he has seen similar results in parvo cases he has treated. “The success rate has been night and day,” he said. “We are able to get them eating a little faster and out of the hospital a little more quickly.”Hopefully, vets around the country will include Elanco’s Monoclonal Antibody treatment in current parvo protocols to increase the survival rate and reduce hospitalization time.

Firefighters Save Dog From Drowning in the Icy Waters of Lake Superior

A dog is lucky to be alive after taking a dip into Lake Superior’s frigid December waters. Minnesota Firefighters battled biting cold and eight-foot-tall waves to save the pooch who escaped from their leash and jumped into the lake’s freezing water. The Duluth Minnesota Fire Department posted on social media that several marine units were sent to rescue a dog that jumped into Lake Superior from the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge. The pup’s owner met the rescues on the bridge and pointed out the dog struggling to stay afloat in eight-foot-plus waves in the middle of the ship canal. Crews donned ice rescue suits before entering the lake to protect them from the ice-cold water of Lake Superior. At the same time, additional rescues were sent with the department’s 14-foot inflatable boat to assist the crew in the water. The rescue team fought their way through freezing water and huge waves to find the dog, but couldn’t see him due to low light and waves. The dog’s coat was also dark in color and they kept slipping under the water, making them hard to find.Thanks to the dog owner and fire personnel who shouted directions from the pier, the firefighters managed to locate the dog and grab them by their collar. Even though they had their hands on the pup, firefighters faced several problems before bringing the dog safely to the shore. The crew tried to swim with the dog to the shore, but they struggled in high waves. The pooch was large and terrified, and rescues struggled to keep its head above water. The waves swept the firefighters and the pup under the Duluth bridge, towards the bay and away from shore. Luckily the additional firefighters arrived with an inflatable boat and pulled the dog and the rescues from freezing waters.As soon as their paws touched solid ground, the exhausted pooch was treated for hypothermia by emergency staff. To everyone’s delight, the dog’s condition improved quickly and they were able to walk on their own. According to officials, the dog was wagging their tail as they jumped into their owner’s car. The Duluth Minnesota Fire Department shared that firefighters prevented the dog’s owner from jumping into the water in an attempt to save the beloved dog themselves. The officials added that bystanders had to convince the owner not to go in after the dog and warned people against putting themselves in danger to save a pet.“The Duluth Fire Department wants to stress to the public the importance of not putting yourself into a situation you are neither trained nor equipped to handle. This will not only put you at risk but the emergency responders as well. It will also greatly limit the options we have to try and save your pet as all efforts will now be directed at saving you,” Duluth Fire Department officials said.“We have learned in the fire service that if we don’t respond to help in these situations that bystanders and owners likely will take action on their own,” they added. “Without the proper training and equipment, this most often results in the firefighters now responding to a call for a person in harm’s way.”“Given the waves and temperature conditions in the canal last night, anyone entering the water without the proper training and equipment would most likely have ended in tragedy,” fire officials added. Luckily for all that wasn’t the case! Thanks to the brave firefighters the pooch and their owner are safe and can enjoy each other’s company for many years to come.  Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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.

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Auf Wiedersehen Wiener Dog - Will Germany Ban Dachshunds?

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

What Are the Requirements for Flying with a Dog?

While traveling with your pet can be challenging, it doesn’t have to be. Even though some  airlines can be a bit finicky about their rules and regulations, you can fly with your pet in tow safely and comfortably, as long as you know their requirements and follow them to the letter.Having your choice of airlines to travel with your dog as your companion, broadens your options when it comes to travel destinations and can eliminate a lot of usual travel-related stress factors in the process. In fact, flying your pet together with you can be simple, straightforward, and hassle-free! As long as you stick to the rules, that is. So, without further ado, what are the requirements for flying with a dog? Are there any universal practices you should know or does it really depend from company to company? Here’s everything you should know before packing your bags.What Are the Requirements for Flying with a Dog?Of course, it goes without saying that you can’t just appear with your pet at the check-in gate and fly away! There are many important rules involved, mainly in order to keep your pet safe, to comply with specific airline regulations, the rules of other countries, and the comfort of other passengers as well. It is also important to remember that different airlines might have different rules. It is crucial that you contact your desired airline beforehand, checking about any special regulations that they require. Still, there are some universal criteria that any pet will have to meet in order to fly on a plane.One of the foremost requirements that will allow your pet to fly on a plane is a health certificate. This is a special document that can be issued by your veterinarian after a thorough physical examination. It guarantees that your doggo is healthy, has no diseases, and has all the required vaccinations that are up to date. And, of course, this certificate needs to be recent. They are valid for only about 30 days, so make sure to do it in time. Some airlines also require that your pet be microchipped. This is advisable for all pet owners regardless of travel or not. The  microchip allows for quick and simple identification in case your pet gets lost and also serves as a sort of doggo credential. Just make sure that all the information stored on the chip is up-to-date!

Why Are Labradors Fat? Scientists Have the Answer

The friendly, playful, and trainable Labrador is one of the most popular dog breeds around the world. But, few canines are as obsessed with food as Labrador retrievers - and now scientists think they have discovered why. According to new research, a quarter of labs are predisposed to obesity due to a genetic mutation.Approximately 25 percent of Labradors face a double-whammy of burning fewer calories and feeling hungry all the time because of an anomaly. Scientists explain that this obesity-causing combination means dog owners must be strict when feeding and exercising their labs to keep them fit.The mutation is found in the gene called POMC, which plays an important role in energy use and hunger, and affects how dogs behave around food. Around 25 percent of Labradors and 66 percent of flat-coated retrievers are affected by POMC mutation, which puts these dogs at risk of obesity and causes increased interest in food.Researchers found that although these dogs don’t need to eat more to feel full, they are hungrier in between meals. The study also showed that dogs with the POMC mutation use around 25 percent less energy when resting than dogs without it. As a result, these pooches don’t need to eat as many calories to maintain a healthy weight. “We found that a mutation in the POMC gene seems to make dogs hungrier. Affected dogs tend to overeat because they get hungry between meals more quickly than dogs without the mutation,” said Dr. Eleanor Raffan, a researcher in the University of Cambridge’s Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience who led the study. “All owners of Labradors and flat-coated retrievers need to watch what they’re feeding these highly food-motivated dogs to keep them a healthy weight. But dogs with this genetic mutation face a double whammy: they not only want to eat more, but also need fewer calories because they’re not burning them off as fast,” she added.The study found that the POMC mutation alters a pathway in dogs’ brains associated with body weight regulation. The mutated genes trigger the starvation signal that sends a message to the body to increase food intake and conserve energy.The study involved 87 adult pet Labradors, all at a healthy weight or moderately obese. The dogs were subjected to several tests, including ‘the sausage in the box’ test. The dogs were first given a can of wet dog food every 20 minutes until they couldn’t eat any more. All labs eat huge amounts of food, but what’s interesting is that dogs with POMC didn’t eat more food than the dogs without it.On a different day, all dogs were given the same breakfast. Three hours later they were offered a sausage in a box made of clear plastic and a perforated lid, so the dogs could see and smell the sausage but not eat it.Scientists discovered that labs with POMC mutation tried harder to get the sausage than the dogs without it, showing greater hunger. In another test, the dogs were allowed to sleep in a special chamber that measured the gases they breathed out. This test showed that labs with POMC mutation burn 25 percent fewer calories than dogs without it. According to researchers, people are often rude to owners of fat dogs, criticizing them for not feeding and exercising their dogs properly. However, this study has shown that labs with POMC are trying to increase their energy intake by looking for food all the time. Keeping these dogs slim is challenging, but possible. Spreading out daily food rations, by using puzzle feeders to slow down feeding or scattering the food around the yard so it takes longer to eat are ways owners can keep their Labradors distracted from constant hunger. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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