Can a Dog Get Sunburn?

by Kate Barrington

Published: June 8th, 2019

Who doesn’t like to lie out in the sun and catch some rays. But can a dog get sunburn? Here’s what you should know about the dangers.

With the exception of a handful of hairless dog breeds, most dogs have a fur coat that protects them from the weather. What you have to keep in mind, however, is that under that coat is a layer of skin that is just as delicate as your own skin and just as susceptible to sunburn. But do dogs actually get sunburn and, if so, how do you protect them? Keep reading to learn more.

Do Dogs Really Get Sunburn?

When you’re headed to the beach or to the pool, you probably pack sunscreen for yourself and your family. But what about your dog? Do dogs actually get sunburn? Yes! Dogs are susceptible to sunburned skin just as much as you are. While your dog’s skin is covered by a layer of fur, that skin is very fair because it doesn’t tend to get a lot of direct sun exposure. If your dog’s fur is very fine or thin, his risk for sunburn is much higher. Even dogs with thick coats are susceptible to sunburn on areas of exposed skin like the ears, belly, and even his nose.

How to Protect Your Dog from the Sun

If you want to protect your dog from sunburn, it’s probably not the best idea to cover him with sunscreen. First of all, it probably won’t make it through the coat to reach his skin and, second, he’ll probably end up licking it off and that will lead to more problems. The best way to protect your dog from sunburn is to make sure he has access to shade. If you’re headed to the beach, bring an umbrella big enough to create a shaded area for your dog. If you keep your dog outside at home, make sure he has an outdoor kennel or another covered area to retreat to when things get too sunny.

Tips for Treating Sunburn in Dogs

As careful as you may be, your dog could still end up getting sunburned and then what do you do? In the same way that your skin turns red and warm when you get sunburned, so will your dog’s. Look for signs of red, dry, or cracked skin as well as curling around the edges of your dog’s ears. These are classic signs of sunburn. If your dog shrinks away from your touch (especially for more sensitive areas like the ears and belly), you may want to take a closer look. In very severe cases, sunburn could even cause your dog to develop a fever.

When it comes to treating sunburn, there are several things you can do to soothe your dog’s damaged skin. An oatmeal bath made of lukewarm water and ground oats can soothe and moisturize your dog’s dry skin. You can add a little aloe vera or neem oil to the bathwater, but avoid using soap or shampoo because it can further dry your dog’s skin. After giving your dog’s skin a few days to heal, you can apply a little coconut oil to replace lost moisture.

Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

More by Kate Barrington

BARK Air Introduces a New Flight Tailored for Dogs

View Article

How Can I Remove Plaque From My Dog's Teeth?

We love our dogs and many of us won’t say no to puppy smooches – but to be fair, not all furballs have the freshest breath out there. If your dog has  bad-smelling breath, the culprit might be plaque buildup and the bacteria overgrowth that comes with it. We all know that bacteria are responsible for all things smelly, and when it comes to oral hygiene, the reason why bacteria are there in the first place is bits of leftover food that slowly but surely turn into tartar on your pet’s teeth. The best way to prevent plaque on a dog's teeth is to brush them, but what about existing buildup? How can you remove plaque from your dog’s teeth at home – or is it something that has to be done professionally? Here’s what you need to know about plaque and tartar and how best to remove them.How Can I Remove Plaque from My Dog's Teeth?Maintaining good dental health in dogs is crucial for their overall well-being. Addressing plaque in your dog's teeth is not just about maintaining a bright smile; it's a key aspect that contributes to their overall health, happiness, and longevity. Regular dental care is an investment in your dog's well-being that pays off in various ways - it’s sure way to prevent dental diseases such as  gingivitis and  periodontitis, eliminate bad breath odor, avoid tooth decay and loss, and maintain your dog’s good appetite. After all, dogs depend on their teeth to eat properly. Just imagine the effect of bad or missing teeth. Unchewed food, indigestion, vomiting – the list is long. So it goes a long way to act on this ahead of time and prevent tartar buildup and remove any existing one. Here are just a few tips to consider when dealing with persistent dog teeth plaque:Prevent Buildup With Regular BrushingDogs need to brush their teeth just like us! They’ll need your help to do it, of course. Remember that it is never too late to start. Start slowly and gently with short brushing sessions, gradually increasing the time as your dog becomes more comfortable. Of course, you should use  a toothbrush that is designed specifically for dogs or a similar fingerbrush. The toothpaste also needs to be for dogs only (never use human toothpaste as it may contain ingredients harmful to dogs).

What Should You Do If Your Dog Gets A Sunburn

What happens when Fido gets too much sun? The same thing that happens to his humans. It hurts! So, it’s important to know what to do if your dog gets too much sun. It’s hard to stay indoors during the summer. It’s just so beautiful outside and the sun offers so much nourishing heat that you’ll want to soak up as much of it as you can. However, it’s important to be careful. Especially if you invite your furry friend to join in on the fun. No matter how much you may enjoy the hot weather, you have to remember that the summer months are no picnic for your precious pooch. Not only can the hot weather cause heat stroke, it could also give your dog sunburn. As we all know, sunburns are no joke and can be quite painful for both you and your little dog. While it’s obviously best to avoid your pup getting a sunburn in the first place, the good news is that it’s usually never too serious. So, of course you should of course try to stop your dog from getting burned, but if she does, it’s not the end of the world.There are a number of things you can do to make the process a little less painful for your pooch. Which Dogs Are Most Susceptible to Sunburn? Although it’s possible for any dog to get sunburn if exposed to the sun for long enough, there some specific characteristics that make certain dogs more prone to getting burned. White dogs and dogs with light-colored fur (or patches), hairless dogs, and those with sparse or thin fur are the most likely to suffer from sunburn. Breeds such as Pitbulls, Greyhounds, and Chinese Crested are especially susceptible. It’s fairly easy to tell. Obviously a big, dark, and heavy coat should protect a pooch from harsh rays, while any dog with thing and light colored fur has the potential to get burned. Home Remedies There are a number of home remedies exist for treating any minor doggy sunburn. A cool bath or a cold compress can be soothing for the pup, but won’t it actually aid healing. Those techniques are used to offer some much needed relief to your dog. The same can be said for an oatmeal soak, either commercial or homemade, that also offers soothing relief from painful sunburn. Aloe vera gel is also great, because it soothes the area and relieves pain, but will also help the burns to heal more quickly. More than that, it’s completely safe should your pup lick it off her skin or coat. Vitamin E oil soothes, heals and also helps to prevent any scarring. So, there are some home remedy options available that will help your pup get through some light burns. However, if the sunburn is more serious than that, it’s worth moving onto the next level and getting some actual medication. Over the Counter That’s right, you can also get over-the-counter remedies for doggy sunburns. Well, not specifically for dogs. However, plenty of over-the-counter people sunburn medications will work just fine. While they’re designed for humans, these remedies won’t irritate your dog’s skin. Just be careful not to apply them to any areas that your dog can reach with her tongue, because they could be harmful if ingested. A cone might be wise depending on the strength of the substance. Topical sprays, such as Solarcaine and Lanacane contain local anesthetic, which will help reduce any pain your canine companion is feeling. These are certainly worth considering if your pup’s sunburn is a bit more severe than usual. However, as with any pet medical emergency, if your pup’s sunburn is especially bad, then there’s one person that you need seek out… When to Seek Veterinary Advice For the most part, a sunburn is only a minor ailment. Yet, occasionally it can be more serious and will require attention from an experience veterinarian. If there are blisters or the sunburn appears to have affected more than one layer of skin, your dog may need to see a vet. Also, if she seems to be in a lot of pain, it’s always best to seek advice from a veterinary professional. If in doubt, always get your dog checked out. It’s best to be overly cautious when it comes to the health and well-being of your four-legged friend. The worst thing that can happen is that your vet will give your dog a clean bill of health and offer some alternate solutions to soothing their sunburn pain. That’s hardly a bad thing. Prevention Ideally, it’s better to prevent your dog for getting sunburned in the first place, rather than seeking treatment after it happens. Luckily for you, it’s really quite simple to avoid your pooch from getting a case of sunburn. First you need to know which parts of your dog are most likely to get sunburned: her nose, her eyelids, the tips of her ears, her belly and around her mouth. Make sure than you apply doggy-safe sunscreen to these areas before taking your dog out in the sun on particularly harsh summer days. The sunscreen should have an SPF of at least 15, but preferably higher. Products especially designed for dogs are always best. Make sure the sunscreen doesn’t contain zinc oxide or PABA. You can also wrap your dog in a t-shirt, which will protect her body from any harsh sun (but not her face). The time between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. is the most dangerous for getting sunburn, so try to keep your dog indoors during these hours. Early morning or late evening walks are ideal in hot weather. Pull the shades and draw the curtains in your house so that your pooch can’t spend all day lounging in that sun spot on the living room floor. Yes, you dog can get a sunburn indoors and no, it’s not fun to deal with. Sunburns happen and if your dog gets one, it’s nothing to be ashamed of. As you just read, there are plenty of solutions available to help your pup feel better. Just use caution and careful judgment if your pup is particularly sensitive to the sun. It’s not the end of the world and shouldn’t impede your happy life with your dog too severely. Do you have any other solutions for dealing with a doggy sunburn? If so, we’d love to hear it. Leave your suggestions in the comments below and together we’ll ensure that all dogs will enjoy this coming summer without getting burned.

Study: When It Comes To Sniffing Out Lies, You Can’t Get Fool A Dog

Even the best poker face won’t work on your dog – a new study shows that dogs can tell if you’re untrustworthy. While we may feel like the alpha-dog as we bark orders such as “fetch”, “stay” and “sit” at our canine counterparts, have you ever wondered how these words actually translate in dog-speak? Apparently that all depends on who’s giving the command! Yes, your best friend has actually sussed you out to decide whether you can be trusted and quite frankly, whether these daily requests even warrant a response. Related: Your Dog is Smarter Than You Think We’ve all experienced “selective listening” – that frozen stare and lack of eye contact immediately following an unpopular command, but have our good buddies actually evaluated the situation and made a conscious decision to ignore us? Maybe so, according to a recent study conducted by Kyoto University in Japan. Our pooches can be pretty quick at sizing up the credibility of the person delivering information and if they suspect the goal is to repeatedly send them on a wild goose chase when it comes to finding their treat or chasing a ball, they’re having none of it! Related: If You’re Happy And You Know It… So Does Your Dog! The study suggests that Rover not only appreciates but needs the predictability that honesty brings and as soon as things become irregular (translation: you try to trick him) he can become stressed, fearful or even aggressive. But fear not, our pets “live in the present” and tend to react to situations and commands a la minute, meaning they don’t over-think the small stuff and they don’t carry grudges. So remember that although Rover’s vocabulary might be limited and his comprehension a tad slow, he is a shrewd judge of character. This may have you thinking twice about that “throwing the ball, but not really throwing the ball” routine that your pooch always falls for and never ceases to amuse you. [Source: BBC]

Can I Get Sued If My Dog Bites a Trespasser?

Dogs aren’t just for companionship – they also guard our homes. But what happens if your dog bites a trespasser who’s in your home? Your loving and loyal pooch had a total meltdown when he spotted a stranger trespassing onto his home turf. He stepped up to ward off this intruder by doing what he knew best; barking, growling, posturing, and ultimately biting when his warnings were ignored. Can that person now sue you? The answer to that can be different depending on the state or province you live in however a common theme appears to be: If you were home during the trespass, was the individual warned that your dog was present and would be set loose if they did not leave?Has the dog previously exhibited aggressive behaviors towards humans?Is your pet’s breed banned in your state or province?Is the dog a pet or is he specifically on the premises to perform guard duty? With these points in mind, the general rule of thumb is that you may well be responsible if your dog defends your property from trespassers by biting. However, exceptions to these rules apply and you’ll need to read up on the laws for your specific jurisdiction. What can impact an intruder’s ability to sue for injury, is whether you directed your dog to attack versus alerted the individual to the harm your pet is prepared to deliver if they don’t leave. It’s called “standard of care” and while it may be frustrating to learn that you owe an intruder a measure of safety when they unlawfully enter your premises, it’s not an unusual expectation from the courts or from insurance companies who have to foot the bill if you are sued. And while this standard of care is not to the level you would provide a welcomed guest, it must be “reasonable” which means not unnecessarily exposing the individual to danger. This means that if you are home, you need to offer some type of warning – such as advising of a dog on premises – that will allow them the opportunity to choose to escape injury. Heads up here: posting a “Beware of Dog” sign on your property perimeter is not sufficient to absolve you of legal responsibility. Now, if you are aware that your pet exhibits aggressive or dangerous behaviors towards humans or if he is a breed that is banned in your jurisdiction, you will almost certainly be liable for any injuries to a trespasser. And this is in effect regardless of whether you warned them of your pet’s presence. North of the border, in Ontario, the laws dictate that if an individual is bitten or attacked by a dog while they are on-premises with the intent of committing a criminal act, the owner is not liable. Again, unless, the dog was known to be aggressive and kept less as a pet and more for personal security. Similarly, in states such as Maryland, the owner is not liable for injury to a person if their dog attacked the individual while that person was in the process of committing a trespass-related crime, or attempting to attack the owner. In fact, it’s one of a few states that continue to follow the rule of “contributory negligence” in this type of personal injury case. In short, the owner is not liable for damages if it is determined the victim was even only marginally responsible for his or her injuries. This would include not heeding the warning of a property owner, when advised there is a dog on-premises that could become aggressive. The bottom line is to understand the rules in your particular jurisdiction, read-up on what your property insurance covers (and doesn’t cover), and be prepared to muzzle or leash a dog that has become riled up, rather than setting him loose on an intruder.

How Much Does It Cost to Feed Your Dog Around the World?

There is no denying the fact that pet ownership can be expensive. From the expected costs of vaccinations and high-quality dog food to the increased fees associated with traveling with your dog by your side, it adds up fast! But exactly how much does it cost to feed your dog? How do these costs stack up compared to dog parents in other areas? If this question has been on your mind, you’re in luck. A recent study by CashNetUSA compares the cost of feeding a dog in 97 countries, and the findings are surprising.Let’s start with the most exciting news for American pet parents. While the cost of feeding a dog in the US didn’t make the list of the least expensive countries, it did rank as one of the most affordable countries when assessing the annual cost versus the national net income per capita. Other countries that made this list include Ireland, France, Sweden, Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Slovenia, and Denmark. Of course, this value can vary depending on the quality of dog food you are feeding and the size of your dog (therefore, the amount of food they consume daily). The study collected data based on the cost of feeding a medium-sized dog 540 grams of kibble daily using the cheapest dry food available in local supermarkets. If a country didn’t have available comparable food, the price was calculated using an international supermarket that would ship to the country. The least expensive country to feed a dog was Botswana, at a cost of $163.59 USD annually. This was closely followed by Lesotho ($201.29) and Hungary ($246.38). On the other end of the spectrum, the most expensive country was Japan, with dog food costs reaching a staggering $2,056.88 USD annually. The top 3 most costly countries also included Andorra ($1854.71) and Estonia ($1518.98). What causes such a variation in cost? In addition to the living costs and average income for each country, food quality should also be considered. Countries with exceptionally low annual prices often fed dogs a diet that failed to meet their nutritional needs. “Most retail brands in Botswana and around Africa use basic formulae often resulting in dogs suffering from inflamed skin and increased scratching caused by (an) imbalance in levels of Omera 3 and 6 along with insufficient levels of essential fatty acids like DHA and FPA,” a local entrepreneur told the National Post. If you are struggling with pet food's growing cost, you’re not alone. Many pet parents are seeking ways to keep the costs down without sacrificing the quality of their dog’s diet. Here are a few tips to help keep the costs down: Bake Your Own Dog Treats Dog treats are one of the bigger costs that many dog parents spend on. After all, there are so many incredible treat options available on the shelves of our local pet stores. How do you not want to spoil your furry best friend? Making your treats is not only budget-friendly but also a great way to control the quality of what your dog is eating. Buy in Bulk If your budget allows, purchase a larger bag of dog food or buy your dog’s food in bulk. These products are designed to last surprisingly well on the shelf over time. By buying larger quantities at once, you may spend more in the moment, but the cost per meal drops considerably. If your local pet store doesn’t have a bulk discount, consider asking about purchasing a bulk order and how it could impact the price. Join Loyalty Programs or Subscriptions Many pet stores and online pet retailers offer loyalty programs or subscriptions that help reduce your costs if you continue purchasing from one location. This could mean a lower price per bag with a pre-scheduled subscription order or a loyalty points program where you are rewarded with a free bag after buying a certain number of dog food bags. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Are the Symptoms of Dementia in Dogs?

As the years go by, health issues tend to pile up, even in canines. Old age can bring a range of problems – some doggos have troubles with arthritis and limited mobility, while others suffer from cognitive decline and experience issues such as dementia. That’s right, even dogs can suffer from dementia, which is also known as canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD). This illness can bring about some troubling changes in your pet’s behavior, and it would be wise to be familiar with all the symptoms of dementia, especially if you are a senior dog owner. Let’s go over them and get familiar with the challenges of canine dementia.Doggy Dementia: Symptoms and What To ExpectAs your pet reaches their golden years, some issues are bound to pop up, including dementia. Known as canine cognitive dysfunction, it has similar symptoms to Alzheimer's disease in humans. The main cause is the aging of the dog’s brain, which results in many troubling issues. Of course, CCD doesn’t happen to all old dogs. Latest studies revealed that it only happens to roughly 50% of dogs that are over 11 years old. Of course, if you own a senior doggo, it is wise to get to know the symptoms of dog dementia. Here are some of the most common ones:Confusion and Disorientation:As dementia sets in, your pet might seem suddenly disoriented and awfully confused. They could get lost in spaces that should be all too familiar to them (the house for example), or could just stand and stare blankly into space. Major Sleep Pattern Changes:Dogs tend to have a solid sleep routine. But with dementia, this can suddenly change. They could experience alterations in their sleep-wake cycle, sleep a lot during the day, and become restless and sleepless throughout the entire night.Loss of Interest:Your dog, with dementia, could suddenly become a totally different pet. They could lose all interest in common interactions. They could have zero interest in playing with you or interacting with the family members. The same goes for interacting with other pets, or playing with toys - even if they were their favorites. Forgetting Housetraining:

Organizations Donate Free Food to Help Owners Keep Pets

The high cost of living forces many pet owners to consider rehoming their pets.

RSPCA Blames Film and Social Media for Overcrowding in Shelters

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

These Are the States With the Most Spoiled Doggos in 2023

With the holiday season fast approaching, it is the time for presents, cuddling, yummy meals and, to be honest, spoiling the one you love, including your four-legged bestie. But are there some pet parents that take it a bit too far, and if so, do we know in which states they live? If you are one of those owners who like to pamper their furry friend and spoil them to no end, stick around to find out who’s guilty of overindulging their doggo just like you!An interesting  Forbes Advisor survey estimates that around 22.2% of dog owners in the USA, or one in five, admit to having spent more money on  Christmas gifts for their dogs, rather than gifts for friends and family. This means that there are certainly some pampered and spoiled doggos to be found across the nation, but what is more interesting is that dog owners in certain states tend to spoil dogs more than in others. Now, after a nationwide survey, the results are in!With a score of 100 out of 100, Florida definitely wins as the state with the most spoiled dogs! The Sunshine State is reported to have around 66.5% of owners who spend more money on their dog’s health, grooming, and gifts, than on their own. They are also more likely to pamper dogs by perfuming them, pushing them in strollers, buying them clothes and gifts, or taking them to restaurants. Interestingly, the second place, and right behind Florida, is Alaska, with a score of 98.69 out of 100. Nearly half of all dog owners in this northerly state admit to regularly throwing birthday parties for their pooches, purchasing them special outfits, and even putting cologne on them. They too will spend more money on their pets than on themselves.Behind Florida and Alaska in places 1 and 2 respectively, are the following states:3. Washington - 91.82 out of 1004. Colorado - 82.04 out of 1005. California - 77.96 out of 1006. New Jersey - 77.52 out of 1007. Illinois - 77.23 out of 1008. Texas - 70.80 out of 1009. Delaware - 69.93 out of 10010. Virginia - 69.34 out of 100The survey also offered some indicators and activities that might suggest that you are spoiling your dog. If you regularly do some of these activities, you might be pampering your pooch as well!Taking family photos with the dog Ordering the dog a special treat at a restaurant Bringing the dog on vacationPushing the dog in a strollerSpending more money on the dog’s health and grooming than on their own Buying the dog outfits and accessoriesSo, what’s the result? Are you too on the list of owners who spoil their pets? Let us know!

Can I Use Human Hair Shampoo to Wash My Dog?

Making sure your pet’s hygiene is up to standards is an important thing, but you have to be careful about how you go about it. There aren’t a lot of important rules to consider when doggo baths are considered, but you should pay special attention to the type of shampoo that you use. If you are all out of pet shampoo, and you are thinking that a little bit of human shampoo won’t make a difference – think again. Using human hair shampoo on your dog is not recommended, and the reasons for this are many, including negative effects on your pet’s overall health and the quality of their skin and coat. Here’s what you should know before you reach for your shampoo when bathing your pooch.Why You Shouldn’t Use Human Shampoo On DogsThe first and foremost thing you have to consider is pH balance. Human shampoos are formulated to match the pH level of human skin. However, that level is totally different for dogs. Because of this, human shampoo can greatly disrupt the natural pH levels of a dog’s skin, ultimately leading to rashes, irritation, and skin diseases. And the same goes for the ingredients in that shampoo.  Dog shampoos have totally different ingredients compared to human shampoos. The latter has many chemicals that are considered too harsh for dogs. Dogs are prone to skin allergies and sensitivities, and some of the ingredients in human shampoos could make these issues much worse. The allergies can also be triggered by the strong fragrances of human-grade shampoos, which dogs can’t really stand. You should also take into account that a dog’s coat and human hair are totally different. While human shampoos are meant to lather well on hair, they’ll be too soapy for dogs. Rinsing out human shampoo from a dog can be a challenge, and a lot of chemicals can stay trapped in the coat and absorbed through the skin. Ultimately, all of this can leave your dog’s coat damaged, their skin irritated, and their health vulnerable to viruses and skin-borne infections. 

Adopter Visits a Dog Every Day for 2 Months to Earn the Pet's Trust

Alva, a fearful dog who spent over 500 days at Austin Pets Alive! shelter has found a loving home thanks to an adopter who believed in her. According to Dr. Ellen Jefferson, a veterinarian and the CEO and president of Austin Pets Alive! (APA!), Alva first arrived at the shelter in 2019, as a puppy. Alva was transferred to APA! from another shelter after it was discovered that she had cerebellar hypoplasia. This congenital neurological condition affects the part of the brain that controls movement, leading to mobility issues. “We’re a shelter that generally takes animals from other shelters when they can’t afford long-term medical treatment,” said Jefferson, according to PEOPLE. The shelter quickly found a home for the young puppy, but problems emerged as Alva grew up.A common issue for dogs with severe mobility problems is that they don’t get out as much as healthy dogs. They spend most of their time inside a loving home with people who take good care of them. Unfortunately, these dogs miss a vital part of socialization as they aren’t exposed to new people, animals, and situations during puppyhood. As the home Alva grew up in became busier, she attempted to bite the people who came over for a visit. This type of fear aggression is common for dogs with mobility issues because they can’t get away. Sadly, Alva ended up back in the shelter because she became territorial, defensive, and fearful. While the shelter looked for a perfect adopter for Alva, the behavioral support team and volunteers worked with the pooch daily. “She got the best care she possibly could, with so many people taking her out every day,” Jefferson shared. “She had a wheelchair made for her.”Although Alva made immense progress with her mobility and behavioral issues, no one showed interest in adopting her for more than 500 days. Luckily, Alva wasn’t destined to stay in the shelter forever! Alva’s future changed when Joe Rotunda saw her on Instagram in July. Although he wasn’t looking for a new pet at that time, he immediately knew that he wanted to give Alva a loving home. “She shined. She had this almost tangible will,” Rotunda said. “I saw all these videos of Alva running, playing, and falling down. And every time she fell, she pulled herself back up. Every time a challenge presented itself, she did not go around it; she went over it. And I was very inspired.”It was love at first sight! Rotunda didn’t hesitate for a second, instead, he drove to APA! to schedule a meeting with Alva. “She was very wary of me. She was very nervous, concerned, and anxious,” said Rotunda about Alva’s initial reaction to him. “But, you could tell she was so loving and affectionate around the people that she knew.”To earn Alva’s trust, Rotunda kept coming back. That meant visiting the shelter every day for two months! “She needed someone who would not give up on her. And I never questioned that decision,” he explained.Over time, Alva who lounged and nipped at him at first, started to approach Rotunda and feel safe in his company. By October the APA! and Rotunda agreed it was time for Alva to spend the night outside the shelter.Before Alva arrived, Rotunda transformed his home to make it inviting and as comfortable as possible. He blocked a large section of the living room to make a private play area and added several crates to give Alva room to decompress.Alva arrived on Friday night, and when the APA! caretaker came to collect her the next day, it was obvious the dog wanted to stay. “She did not want to leave the house. She did not want to go back to APA. And she’s been here ever since.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How to Clean Dog Diarrhea From Carpet

Sure, sharing your life with a dog is fun and your days are filled with love, but sometimes, it can get messy. Like, real messy. After all, even though we love them, dogs are not the neatest of animals out there (that title would go to kitties, I’m afraid). In the daily life of a dog owner, there is bound to be a bit of dirt, hair, and - inevitably, poop – to clean up after your pet. And as if picking up poop from the street after your pet wasn’t bad enough, sometimes accidents happen inside your home, and the messes are that much harder to clean. Especially when you’re dealing with diarrhea and not your regular ole poop situation. But even though it’s far from pleasant to clean up after, it’s not the end of the world if an accident happens. While it can be difficult to thoroughly clean dog diarrhea embedded in the carpet fibers, everything can be cleaned if you are persistent enough – and know how to approach the issue. Here are some tips and tricks that can help you clean dog diarrhea from carpet – stains and smell both.How to Clean Dog Diarrhea from Carpet: Step by StepNow, keep in mind that cleaning dog diarrhea from a carpet can be a messy task, but it's important to clean it thoroughly and as quickly as possible to prevent lasting stains and lingering odors. Even if you are disgusted by the sight before you, it is necessary to keep at it until the job’s done. Someone has to do it, right? And we all know it ain’t gonna be your pooch.So, first things first, you’ll need to gather supplies. It is always good to have them handy and keep them stored in a secure cabinet. You never know when an accident can happen and they will be needed, so be sure to be stocked on  pet-safe cleaning supplies (if you’re not already, now is a perfect time to pick up all of your basic necessities). 

New Study Reveals More About How Cats Purr

Pet parents love hearing their cats purr while in a relaxed and blissful state, and it’s believed that a kitty’s purr could be healing, too. But, no matter how long you’ve shared your home with felines, you might still wonder how your furry friend is able to make such a unique sound. New research now sheds some more light on how cats purr, so people can learn even more about their feline companions.

The Latest Pet Industry Trends from Global Pet Expo 2024

On March 20-22, 2024, pet industry professionals from across the globe gathered at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, for the Global Pet Expo. Presented by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) and the Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA), the exhibit floor showcased 1,100+ companies, including 300 first-time exhibitors. This included 1,000+ product launches, the latest pet industry news, a packed New Products Showcase, and more! But what did we discover while attending the show? Here are some of the hottest trends in the industry, as seen at this year’s show: Mind the BudgetIn the last decade, we have seen a growing interest in spoiling our pets regardless of the cost. However, following the events of 2020, many pet parents are feeling the pinch that is society’s current financial state. So, how do we reconcile the two? Many brands came into this year’s show with a focus on providing high-quality pet care with a budget-friendly mindset. This included two distinct approaches. Some companies focused on finding ways to keep the price point low. This included changes to production, simplified designs, and sourcing quality supplies at a fraction of the cost. They then transferred these savings directly to the consumer, allowing you to spoil your pets without breaking the bank. The other trend we saw was to create premium products that, while requiring an upfront investment, are designed to last for years to come. By not having to replace them repeatedly, you will save money over the product's lifespan. Overall, we were excited to see so many ways pet parents can improve their pet’s quality of life, even when finances are tight. Sustainability for the Future A growing understanding of the impact of our pets on the environment has put pressure on the pet industry to find ways to prioritize sustainability. Some experts say that caring for a medium-sized dog can have a similar carbon footprint to driving a large SUV. How do we address this without giving up our pets? We saw several brands rising to the challenge! There was a growing number of companies creating adorable and functional toys from recycled materials. Snugarooz had a wide assortment of brightly colored, crinkly, and squeaky plush toys made from recycled water bottles. WestPaw added more products to their popular Seaflex line of 100% recyclable toys made with recycled ocean-bound plastic. We also saw a focus on sustainability in pet food and treats. One company that really stood out was Arch Pet Food. The company previously demonstrated their commitment to eco-friendly pet ownership by introducing alternative proteins in their food and treats. One product that we found very impressive was the Dehydrated Copi treats, made from an invasive species in our waterways. Other shifts towards sustainability included changes in packaging to reduce unnecessary plastics, the use of hemp-based bedding for small animals, and more sustainable decisions being made during production.

Blue Ridge Beef Recalls Kitten and Puppy Food Due to Bacteria

Blue Ridge Beef, one of the foremost pet food companies in North Carolina, decided to recall their 2-pound kitten and puppy food because of a serious potential threat of listeria and salmonella in their kibble. The pet food in question was distributed to locations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.Unfortunately, North Carolina Department of Agriculture discovered a serious issue when analyzing their product, realizing that one lot of each of the food products was positive for salmonella and listeria, on December 15th. This included kitten food lots “N24 1114-N24 1224”, of 2-lb logs of “Kitten Grind” (UPC 8 54298 00101 6), and “Kitten Mix” (UPC UPC 8 54298 00143 6). Also included was the “Puppy Mix” (UPC 8 54298 00169 6).The action was swift to pull these products from the shelves, as both listeria and salmonella can be very dangerous to pets who consume the contaminated food. It can also be harmful to humans who touch the food as well, especially pregnant women and children. Pets who get infected can suffer from vomiting, fever, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite, so if you notice any of these symptoms and your pet has been eating the food that is now recalled, make sure to take them to a vet for treatment ASAP.Luckily, the Blue Ridge Beef company announced that so far it has not received any reports of illnesses that are connected to this recall of food. Likewise, the company is not facing any legal action because of the recall. Pet owners who purchased this food are encouraged to contact Blue Ridge Beef company at  blueridgebeefnc@yahoo.com for a full refund. Consumers can also get in touch with Steven Lea, from 8 am. to 5:30 pm. ET Monday-Friday at (704) 880-4500. 

Vegan Dogs and Cats? Maybe!

Pet food manufacturers have amped up the quality of the vegan options to meet industry standards for protein.

Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?

Final Thoughts - Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?Excessive barking can be frustrating and, if left unaddressed, can put you, as the owner, in a difficult situation. In some places, this can lead to fines or even eviction due to noise complaints. Unfortunately, the process of training a dog to stop barking isn’t one that is usually solved overnight – but it can be done! While you might have seen it recommended to use an “anti-bark” muzzle to stop your dog’s barking, it is not recommended for anything more than a 10 to 15-minute quick fix. Not only does it not teach your dog not to bark in the future, but the muzzle's design could create a dangerous situation. Instead, start by identifying the cause. Is your dog overly excited? Is there a trigger that makes them feel fearful and stressed? Are they trying to protect you when someone walks onto your property? Knowing the trigger will help you not only stop it but also manage your dog’s barking in the short term. If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact a professional trainer or certified behaviorist to offer guidance and direction. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Taters the Cat Streams From Deep Space for NASA

Cat playing with laser pointer is used by NASA to measure band-with between deep space and Earth.

Top stories

Can a Dog Get Sunburn?

BARK Air Introduces a New Flight Tailored for Dogs

What Are Dogs Allergic To In The Spring?

Top stories

Can a Dog Get Sunburn?

Related articles