Christmas Banana and Bacon Dog Treat Recipe

by Amy Tokic

Published: December 18th, 2021

christmas banana and bacon dog treat recipe

It’s beginning to smell a lot like Christmas! I love to bake, especially during the holiday season. But man, do I hate the extra weight that comes along with eating all those goodies. That’s why homemade dog treats are the answer – I can indulge my baking crave without having to taste test… I leave that to Oscar and Zed. And they were more than happy to oblige and gobbled down these Christmas Banana and Bacon dog treats. Whip up a batch for your pooch’s stocking!

Ingredients:

4 cups whole wheat flour

¼ cup of oats

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 egg

1 banana, mashed

½ cup peanut butter

2 tablespoons honey

1 cup milk or almond milk

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ cup bacon, cooked and crumbled

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, mix together wet ingredients – milk, peanut butter, egg, olive oil, and banana – until smooth
Add in flour, oats, bacon bites (you can save ¼ cup to sprinkle on top of cookies), and baking powder and mix until a dough forms. If it’s too sticky, add more flour.
Flour your countertop and roll the dough out to ¼ inch thickness. Cut into shapes using a cookie cutter. Place on cookie sheets.
Brush treats with an egg wash and sprinkle them with bacon bits, lightly pressing them into the treats.
Place cookie sheets in oven and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove from oven and let cool on racks for 2-3 hours. Keep treats stored in fridge or freeze in airtight container.

Benefits of Banana for Dogs

If you aren’t sold on these treats just on the basis of giving your dog a little something ‘special’ this holiday season, there are many health benefits associated with bananas. While your dog’s treats should only be a small portion of his overall food calorie intake, offering treats with high-quality ingredients can add some great benefits! Not only are bananas delicious and budget-friendly, but they also offer great health benefits.

Bananas are a great source of fiber for any dogs that are struggling with constipation, diarrhea, or other symptoms of gastro upset. They support your dog’s digestive system, helping to prevent blockages that may occur from fur balls from grooming and other potential blockages. They are also high in Vitamin C and B6, Magnesium, Potassium, and Biotin. This means that they will help to promote healthier skin, coat quality, bone growth, bone density, and muscle development.

In addition to the health benefits that bananas offer, they are also a healthier alternative to other potential ingredients with higher sugar content or troublesome fats. Always take the time to read the ingredients on any treats that you are offering your pup to avoid troublesome ingredients that could lead to health complications.

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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Bits of Bacon Dog Treat Recipe

Valentine’s Day is a few weeks away and I went a little overboard at the baking supply store. I got a few new cookie cutters I couldn’t wait to try out, and this Bits of Bacon Dog Treat Recipe seemed like the perfect dough to cut into. And besides, nothing says love to dogs like a bit of bacon! Oscar loved his XO cookies and he wanted me to share the love with all of you! Bits of Bacon Dog Treat Recipe Makes 40 medium-sized cookies Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour 1/2 cup powdered milk 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon wheat bran 3 strips bacon, crumbled 1 egg 1 cup beef broth Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.Fry up bacon to desired crispness and let cool. Crumble into small pieces.In a bowl, stir together the whole wheat flour, powdered milk, garlic powder, wheat bran and bacon bits. Stir in the broth and egg. Stir into a stiff dough.On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to ¼ to 1/2 inch thickness and cut with cookie cutters. Place onto a non-stick baking sheet.Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Turn off oven and let treats sit for an additional 10 minutes. Let cool on cooling racks.Keep treats fresh by keeping them in refrigerator or freezer. Do you do anything special for your dog on Valentine’s Day? Are you going to bake up some “love”-ly treats just for him or her? Let us know what your Valentine’s Day plans are in the comment section below.

Tail Waggin’ Peanut Butter and Bacon Dog Treats Recipe

Bacon, bacon, bacon – Om nom nom! I’m a huge fan of bacon and so is Oscar. It’s one of the main loves we share (along with long daytime naps and chasing squirrels). And when you mix bacon with peanut butter – another of Oscar’s favorite things – you’ve got a recipe for great yumminess! That’s why this Tail Waggin’ Peanut Butter and Bacon Dog Treats Recipe will be a huge hit in your house. Why Dogs Go Nuts For Peanut Butter Dogs go ‘nuts’ for peanut butter. See what we did there? Sure you do. And so do dogs when we bring peanut butter out. Whether you’re stuffing it in a toy or a lick mat or giving it to him by the spoonful as you share a jar (no judging)–it’s a favorite of dogs and of dog parents to give to their dogs. But just what about peanut butter turns dogs into crazies? And more? Why is it so good for them? Not only does it hide medicine well and make toys so darned enticing to play with, it’s nutritionally well-rounded too. It offers great nutrients and fiber (important for good gut health) and some really lean protein and healthy fats. It’s a fabulous source of folic acid and dogs (and humans) rely on that for cell growth. Additionally, magnesium helps dogs metabolize B complex vitamins and peanut butter has that too. In essence, there’s a reason (other than its deliciousness) that scooping by the spoonful is a great idea. The one thing you want to make sure of when using peanut butter in recipes is that you do NOT use peanut butters (or anything, really) that have xylitol as an ingredient. Xylitol is deadly for dogs and sometimes, peanut butters will have it added to help sweeten without the added calories of sugar. And when it comes to bacon? Do we even need to tell you why dogs love bacon? We didn’t think so. Now, on to the most amazing treat recipe! Tail Waggin’ Peanut Butter and Bacon Dog Treats Recipe Makes 20-30 cookies Ingredients: 2-3 pieces bacon, cooked and crumbled 1 tbsp honey 2 cups whole wheat or all-purpose flour 1/4 cup ground flax 1 carrot, shredded 2 tsp baking powder 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter 1 egg, lightly beaten 3/4 cup water Directions: Preheat oven to 350°F.In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, honey, egg, water, carrot and bacon and stir until well blended. Add flour, flax seed and baking powder to wet mixture to form dough.Roll out dough on lightly floured work surface to 1/4 inch thick.Cut dough with cookie cutter and place treats 1 inch apart on a non-stick cookie sheet.Bake for 20-25 minutes.Let cool on a rack.See what kind of tricks your dog will do for this treat! If you’ve tried out this recipe, please feel free to share your comments below. And if you’ve added a special ingredient to the mix, we want to hear about it too. Plus, you can share pictures of your Tail Waggin’ Peanut Butter and Bacon Dog Treats on our Facebook page.

Christmas Cheese Dog Treat Recipe

Oh Christmas Cheese, Oh Christmas Cheese, how yummy in our tummies! I don’t know about your dog, but Oscar is a huge fan of cheese. With all of the cheese platters we’ll be indulging in, it only seems fair that our pooches get a little cheese treat of their own. And the Christmas Cheese Dog Treat Recipe is just thing that will satisfy their craving. And if you have gluten-free oat flour, this can turn into a gluten-free dog treat. Christmas Cheese Dog Treat Recipe Makes about 25-30 medium-sized treats Ingredients: 1 cup chicken broth 1 cup rice flour 2/3 cup oat flour ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese Directions: Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.In a large bowl, mix together rice flour, oat flour and cheddar cheese. Add in the broth slowly to mix. Once it starts becoming stiff, use hand to knead the dough.Form into a ball, wrap in saran wrap and chill in fridge for 10 minutes.After the dough has chilled, roll ¼ inch thick onto floured surface and cut out using cookie cutters.Bake for 15 minutes, turn off oven and leave them to dry out for an additional 30 minutes.Store in an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze. You don’t have to use cheddar cheese in this recipe – it’s really up to you (and your dog). Benefits of Cheese for Your Pup We often see cheese as nothing but a fun snack, but this delicious ingredient actually offers some great nutritional benefits. Cheese is packed with calcium, protein, zinc, and phosphorus. It’s also a great source of vitamins A and B12. It’s a great choice as a training treat, cutting it up into tiny bite-sized pieces to entice your dog to give you his undivided attention as well as to reward him when he behaves well and masters obedience commands. However, before you go running to include cheese in every meal, it should only be offered in moderation as an occasional treat. Unlike humans, a dog’s digestive system doesn’t produce enough of the enzyme lactase to break down the lactose in milk products. Eating too much cheese can cause digestive upset, nausea, or diarrhea. It is also high in fat which can lead to weight gain. With so many dogs suffering from obesity, you should always remain highly aware of your dog’s fat and calorie intake. Consider alternating cheese-based treats like this with fresh fruits or vegetables. That way, your dog can enjoy all of the flavors that he likes best without compromising his overall health and well-being. What’s your dog’s favorite cheese to eat? Let us know in the comment section below.

Carrot And Banana Dog Treat Recipe

Are you having a hard time feeding your dog veggies and fruits? May I suggest putting them cookie form – because everything tastes better when it’s in a cookie! That’s the idea behind our Carrot and Banana Dog Treat Recipe. I had a couple of really ripe bananas chilling in the freezer, so I pulled them out especially for this treat. They turned out hard once they had cooled, which gave Oscar something to work on while I cleaned up the mess. This is one recipe I’ll be making again in the future. Carrot and Banana Dog Treat Recipe Makes approx. 35 cookies Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 cup cornmeal 2 carrots, grated 2 ripe bananas 1 egg 1/3 cup vegetable or olive oil 1/2 cup water Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.Combine dry ingredients (flour, cornmeal, cinnamon) in large mixing bowl.Mash ripe bananas in a small bowl. Add banana mash, grated carrots, egg, water and oil with the dry ingredients. Mix until blended into a stiff dough.Roll out your dough to ½ inch thickness on a floured countertop. Use cookie cutters for desired shape, and place on cookie sheets. Bake treats for 35 minutes. Let cool on racks and store in air tight containers in fridge or freezer. How did these cookies turn out for you? We’d love to see them – post your pictures of this dog treat recipe on our Facebook page for the PetGuide community to drool over. Are Bananas Good for My Dog? We have often been told about how healthy bananas are to incorporate into our own diets, but does this carry over to our dogs as well? Are bananas a good choice to add a new flavor and fun to our dog’s treats? Packed with potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, fiber, and magnesium, this delicious fruit is a great choice for dogs that may be experiencing any form of gastrointestinal upset. They also work to encourage healthy, strong bones while also helping the body to absorb more vitamins and nutrients out of the food that they are eating daily. There are two important factors to consider when deciding whether to incorporate banana into your dog’s food. First, they are high in sugar. While this isn’t going to bother your dog if fed in moderation, allowing your dog to eat too many bananas can have a negative result. Additionally, banana peels may not be toxic, but they are difficult for your dog to digest. For this reason, they can lead to a blockage and additional complications. Some easy ways to incorporate banana into your dog’s diet is to do some baking (like the treat recipe included here), mash it up with their kibble, or stuff it into a Kong or similar treat-based toy. You can also place your banana in the freezer whole, giving it time to freeze through before peeling it (and disposing of the peel) and cutting the frozen banana into slices that they can enjoy.

Cranberry Pumpkin Christmas Dog Treat Recipe

I love the holidays – everything about them fills me with merriment and feelings of fa la la. I especially love baking, because the house smells so wonderful while the cookies are in the oven. And the same goes for baking treats for Oscar and his doggy friends. This Cranberry Pumpkin Christmas Dog Treat Recipe had Oscar staring at the oven until they were ready to come out. Cranberry Pumpkin Christmas Dog Treat Recipe Makes about 50 medium-sized cookies Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups of flour (white or whole wheat) 1 1/2 cups of oatmeal flour (run regular oatmeal through the food processor and grind fine) 1 cup of dried cranberries 1 cup of pureed pumpkin 2 eggs 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.In a medium bowl, crack 2 eggs and beat for about 1 minute (you can use a stand or hand mixer if you have them. If not, hand-powered is fine.) Add pureed pumpkin and peanut butter. Mix until creamy.Add flours and cranberry to the mix. Stir and knead until a stiff dough is formed.Flour your work surface and roll out dough to ¼ inch thickness. Use holiday shapes to cut out festive cookies, and place on cookie sheet.Bake for 30-35 minutes. Take out of oven and let cool on cooling racks for 3-4 hours. Store in air tight bags/containers in fridge or freezer. Benefits of Cranberries for Your Dog’s Health A traditional holiday flavor, cranberries are often found in recipes at this time of year. However, they offer more than a seasonal taste that your dog can look forward to each Christmas! Packed with nutrients and antioxidants, this simple red berry is actually a smart choice in terms of your dog’s health. They work to improve your dog’s immune system, decrease any inflammation in the body, boost bladder health, fight bacteria, and reduce the buildup of tartar and plaque for better oral health. This low-calorie treat is high in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. The fiber alone works to lower your dog’s risk of diabetes, hypertension, stroke, and heart disease. As with any other treat, don’t overdo it with the cranberries. Treats should always be offered in moderation. It should also be noted that not all cranberry options are created equal when it comes to your pup. Feeding your dog raw, cooked, or dried cranberries on their own or in a recipe is okay, however, you should avoid any cranberry juices or cranberry sauces. These products are high in sugar, which should be avoided, and a longer ingredient list to consider. Many of the ingredients may be unsafe or even harmful for dog to consume. I’m planning on giving these treats away in little holiday bags for all of Oscar’s buddies and for people at the office. They’ll make a yummy and affordable Christmas present for all the pooches on your list!

How Much Exercise Does My Cat Need?

Cats are often known for their laidback and aloof personalities, lounging around the house like true couch potatoes. But just like us, our kitties need regular exercise to live a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. That’s where your job as a cat parent comes in! In this article, we will explore the importance of exercise for your cat, including how much exercise they need, the benefits of being active, and fun ways to include more physical activity in your cat’s daily routine. Whether you have an energetic young kitten or a calm senior cat, understanding their exercise needs can make a significant difference in their overall well-being. How Much Playtime Does an Indoor Cat Need? When choosing the perfect pet for your family, you have likely heard about how laid back and easy to care for cats can be. After all, they just lounge around the house all day. Right? The truth is that your cat needs daily activity to stay healthy and in shape. The exact amount of exercise your cat needs will depend on several factors, including their age, breed, lifestyle, and individual health needs. For example, a cat that is obese and needs to lose weight to improve their health may need more physical activity than a cat that is already of a healthy weight. That being said, the general rule of thumb is that a healthy adult cat should be engaging in 30 to 60 minutes of active playtime every day, split into shorter 10 or 15-minute play sessions. If you are unsure about your cat’s specific needs, contact your veterinarian. They will be able to provide insight into how exercise and playtime can improve or help to maintain your cat’s quality of life at this stage and as they continue to age. How Do I Know My Cat is Getting Enough Exercise? There are several behavioral signs that a cat isn’t getting enough exercise that you can watch out for. Cats that don’t engage in regular physical activity often suffer from boredom, depression, or anxiety. While our cats obviously can’t speak to tell us this, we can pay attention to their body language and behavior to catch any signs of trouble. Some key signs to watch out for include: Destructive Behavior: One of the first signs people notice when a cat is bored is that they start to exhibit bad habits and destructive behavior. This could include scratching your furniture, tearing apart the toilet paper, ripping curtains or screens, or stealing items they know they shouldn’t. It’s like a young child. They are bored and looking for ways to keep themselves entertained. Excessive Vocalization: Do you have a naturally vocal cat? If so, they may be trying to tell you that something’s wrong verbally. Some cats, when bored, will cry out for attention. This is a behavior we see in our two every time their morning playtime is even 5 minutes late. Change of Appetite: If they are feeling anxious or highly stressed, some cats will stop eating. Others, like humans, will turn to food during times of boredom. Any unexplained changes to your cat’s diet should be considered a sign of trouble – whether it’s a need for more exercise or something health-related.Over-Grooming: Cats are masters of self-grooming, but if a cat is stressed, anxious, or bored, they may take their grooming too far. This can often lead to the development of bald patches or skin irritation. Aggression or Irritation: Some cats become irritable or upset when experiencing stress and anxiety. This could result in uncharacteristic biting or scratching directed towards you, other family members, or other pets in the home. Loss of Energy or Lethargy: This may come as a surprise as most people will associate not enough exercise with having pent-up energy just begging to come out. However, a cat that isn’t getting enough physical activity can become depressed, which may present as being lazy, uninterested, or more aloof than usual. Another important sign to watch out for is unexplained weight gain. Just as humans will gain weight if they aren’t getting enough exercise, so will your cat. Sure, they likely aren’t concerned with “how they look” each morning – but obesity is a growing problem in the United States and can introduce serious health consequences!

Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs?

Ah, peanut butter –who doesn’t love a smear of this sticky butter on their toast? Whether you top it with bananas or jelly or something else altogether, spread on bread, mix in oatmeal, or add to smoothies, you likely enjoy the nutty goodness of peanut butter at least a few times a week. But can you share PB with your dog? While this tasty spread is generally safe for dogs as they have no issue eating peanuts in the form of butter, it’s the other ingredients that may be in the PB you’re eating that could harm them. This is what you should know before giving your pet peanut butter – whether as an ingredient of something else or on its own.Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs? To give you a short and straightforward answer, yes, peanut butter is safe for dogs when it’s made only out of peanuts as the single ingredient. However, that’s not always the case with commercially made peanut butter. To tweak its consistency, shelf life, or even modify its flavor, companies can add a variety of different ingredients to their peanut butter products, so it’s crucial to read the label before giving your pet even just a lick of peanut butter – and it wouldn't hurt to do so before eating it yourself, either. The most dangerous ingredient (for dogs) that could be added to peanut butter is  xylitol, or birch sugar, as it is sometimes labeled. This sweetener is highly toxic to dogs as even small amounts of xylitol can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, and liver failure in dogs.Another thing that could be problematic about peanut butter for dogs is not a matter of a sneaky ingredient but the fact that it’s a high-fat food. If not given in moderation, peanut butter can largely contribute to obesity in dogs, and in turn, promote health issues such as  pancreatitis at worst and upset tummy at best. It is also important to note that some dogs may be allergic to peanuts, the same as is the case with us humans. If you are giving your pet peanut butter for the first time, monitor them for signs of allergic reactions, such as itching, redness, swelling, or gastrointestinal upset, and consult your veterinarian if concerns arise.Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs and How To Incorporate It In Your Dog’s DietIn addition to being yummy, peanut butter is also beneficial for dogs. It might be high in fat, but it is predominantly unsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health, joint function, and immune system function in dogs. It is also a rich source of plant-based protein and will support your pet's overall health when given in moderation. So how do you ensure you don’t overdo it with PB and that your pet reap only the benefits of this nutty spread? While an excellent reward to utilize when training with positive reinforcement methods, peanut butter should be given sparingly rather than every time your pooch does a good job. Use a small amount – a teaspoon will work well for the job. Alternatively, if your pet loves the taste of peanut butter but you’re trying to maintain their weight, opting for peanut butter-flavored treats is a perfect compromise. My dogs prefer crunchy treats and are big PB fans, so one of their favorites is  American Journey Peanut Butter Recipe Grain-Free Oven Baked Crunchy Biscuit Dog Treats.

Drug That Could Extend Lifespan of Senior Dogs Enters Clinical Trial

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

Yoga mat, water bottle,... lint roller?

Furry friends bring a new twist to traditional yoga.

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!

Dog Ran A Mile to Her Doggy Daycare Center for Help After A Car Crash

A frightened dog ran a mile through heavy traffic to its doggy daycare to get help after she and her owner were in a car crash. Melisa Fickel, the dog’s owner, said that Aries, a three-year-old pit bull mix has always been a smart pooch. The pup, who was adopted in 2020, learns tricks quickly and loves to play in the park. Aries recently got a chance to show exactly how smart she is. The pooch and her owner were heeded to a local park in Detroit, Michigan when another car hit them from behind. Luckily, no one was injured, and both vehicles sustained only minor damages. However, the car accident spooked Aries, prompting her to jump out of the car’s window and run off into traffic. “I had the windows down because Aries likes to hang her head out,” said Fickel to a local TV station. “As soon as there was that smack, as soon as I felt and heard it, almost instantaneously, she was out the window.”Fearing the worst, Fickel was concerned about her pup’s safety. While dealing with the police and her insurance company, her mind was preoccupied with all the ways Aries could be in danger,“I can’t really think about it because so many things could have happened,” she added.What Fickel didn’t know is that Aries ran about a mile down the road, to the safest place she could be in - the Hounds Town Metro Detroid, the doggy daycare she frequently visits. Security footage recorded at the daycare showed Aries arriving at the center during the staff’s noon break when employees usually shut down the lobby to clean and catch up with other tasks. According to Dominic Pace, the daycare’s general manager, he and another employee were in the lobby when they saw something outside. “We noticed something dart past the front door,” said Pace. “It was like a black blur that just went past.”Thinking that they might have seen a dog, Pace went outside and found Aries standing by the sidewalk leading to the daycare’s front door. The pooch was panting and looked scared. Once inside the daycare, Aries has calmed down. Pace thought the dog looked familiar, so he called Travis Odgen, the daycare’s owner. At first, Odgen thought that it might be a stray dog, but as he got a better look, he instantly recognized Aries. “I was like, ‘Oh, that looks like Aries’ and then she walks closer and I’m like ‘That is Aries!’” he said. “I start to pet her and she gives me kisses, and she rolls over for me, recognizing me.”Although happy to see Aries, Odgen was confused to see the pooch without her owner. He immediately called Fickel to find out what was happening and to tell her that her dog was in the daycare.Everything made sense once Odgen learned about the fender bender and Aries’ escape. He assured the pup’s owner that she was safe and sound, minus a small cut on her paw. The staff promised to look after the pup until her owner sorted out everything and was able to pick her up.According to Pace, Aries is a very friendly and sweet dog who loves to flop on her back, expecting belly rubs from anyone nearby. “Dogs do have an intuition of knowing where they are and where they can be safe,” he said. “She knows that she’s safe here, that she has people here that will take care of her and dogs are pretty intuitive when it comes to that kind of thing.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

UK Dog Is Recovering After 130+ Coins Were Removed From His Stomach

Missing any cash? An owner from Swindon in the UK did and was shocked when he discovered how his money went missing. The vets were equally shocked because they discovered that Charlie, the little  Bichon Frise, had eaten 133 coins, equalling more than £18!The mischievous little Bichon was taken to Thameswood Vets in Swindon, after the owners became concerned for his health, thinking he was ill. Their doubts proved true. A quick ultrasound revealed an obvious obstruction in the pet’s tummy. At first, the vet thought it was a piece of plastic, and scheduled an operation to remove the obstruction. But the surgery left him shocked. "It was a surprise for everybody,"  said vet Matheus Nerone, who carried out the surgery. Because once the stomach was opened, a “hoard” of 133 coins was discovered, adding up to £18 and 20 pence. "We opened his stomach and found 133 coins inside him," Dr. Nerone explained. "We did find some pieces of plastic there as well - but the owners had no idea that he had eaten the coins."Everyone was left scratching their head, wondering how on earth did Charlie ingest so many coins. "I don't think they had been there that long - maybe the night or two nights before he came in - because of the size of the obstruction there.” the Dr. said. "He felt sick so if he had eaten those coins a few days ago, he would have been sick before then."Of course, the doctor revealed that it is not uncommon for dogs to  ingest all sorts of things, especially loose change. "It does happen but usually they stop after having a couple of them [coins] - but 133 coins is an impressive amount!"Luckily, the surgery went well, and mischievous little Charlie is now making a good recovery. Thanks to the owner’s keen eye, a real tragedy was prevented, as Charlie could have been in big trouble without quick attention. "Many coins contain zinc which can be poisonous and lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and a lack of appetite," Dr. Nerone clarified. "We are monitoring his blood, but we are hopeful that everything's going to be fine."So next time you’re missing some change, consider all the possibilities!

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.

Are Hamsters Good Pets for Kids?

Final Thoughts: Hamsters and ChildrenAre hamsters good pets for kids? The short answer is, “maybe.” There are several key factors to consider when deciding if a hamster will be an excellent addition to your family, including the space needed for their habitat, their independent personalities, your child’s interest in a bet, the work (and finances) required to care for your new hamster, and the availability of a veterinarian that will accept small animals.If your child is ready for a pet, but a hamster doesn’t quite check all the boxes on your new pet wishlist, there are many other options, including guinea pigs, cats, dogs, and some species of birds. Don’t rush this decision. Take time to research and find the best fit for your family before committing to your future furry (or feathered) family member.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Newfoundland Dogs Deliver Your Tree at This US Christmas Tree Farm

“It’s a great way to expose people to the joy of Christmas but also teach people about Newfoundland dogs,” explained Lindsay Eshelman when asked about her family farm. “They’re big, and sometimes people are scared of big dogs, and we want to show that they’re gentle giants.”The Esheman family’s love of the breed is evident, with four Newfoundland dogs currently among their ranks. But they didn’t want to stop there. By inviting Newfies from far and wide to come together, they have rightfully earned the title “The Newfoundland Farm.” The event has become a big part of what they do, a tradition they excitedly look forward to year after year.“We are a destination for these dogs,” Eshelman said. “We actually have had people drive all the way from Vermont, Maine, Ohio – those are ten-plus hour-long drives.”Are you interested in joining the festivities next year, but your dog doesn’t quite fit the breed? Don’t worry! Their Facebook states that all dogs are welcome, not just Newfies. If your dog isn’t keen on public spaces, that’s okay too! Dog lovers are welcome to join in with or without a dog. There will be plenty of adorable pups eager to enjoy your attention.So, start planning your trip to Pennsylvania next year to participate in Newfoundland Day and make some unique holiday memories.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What is the Best Dog Harness for Senior Dogs?

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

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

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

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.

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