Gluten Allergies And Intolerance In Dogs

by Lauren Corona

Published: March 8th, 2015

Does your dog need to go wheat free? Here’s what you need to know about gluten allergies and intolerance in dogs.

Gluten intolerance is a hot topic these days. Everyone and their mother seems to be giving up gluten, for a range of dubious health reasons. Dogs aren’t exempt from this trend, either, and we’re seeing more and more gluten-free dog foods on the market. The truth is, there’s nothing bad or unhealthy about your dog eating gluten in moderation, unless she has an allergy or intolerance to it. Gluten allergies and intolerance in dogs aren’t extremely common, but they’re not exactly rare, either. It can be hard to diagnose a gluten allergy or intolerance, but it’s not too hard to deal with.

What is Gluten, Anyway?

Gluten is a protein found in certain grains: wheat (including kamut, spelt and triticale), rye and barley. Most dogs can eat gluten-containing foods with no problem, but in dogs with an allergy or intolerance to the substance, it causes inflammation in the intestines, which leads to other problems.

What Are the Symptoms of a Gluten Allergies or Intolerance in Dogs?

The most common and prevalent symptom of a gluten intolerance or allergy in a canine is chronic diarrhea. This means diarrhea that has continued for a number of weeks or months. Other possible symptoms include weight loss, a dull coat and a general failure to thrive. Most dogs start showing symptoms at around seven to nine months of age, but late onset allergies aren’t completely unheard of.

How is a Gluten Allergy or Intolerance Diagnosed?

Unfortunately there isn’t a test that can diagnose gluten intolerance or allergies in dogs. If you suspect you canine companion is allergic to gluten, take her to the vet for a checkup. The symptoms of a gluten allergy could also be the symptoms of a range of other conditions, which can be tested for. The vet will generally take blood and stool samples to test, and if nothing shows up in the results then her symptoms may well be caused by a gluten allergy or intolerance. At this point, she will be put on a gluten-free diet for a few weeks. If she is intolerant to gluten, you should see an improvement in her symptoms within two weeks.

How Do You Treat Gluten Allergies or Intolerance in Dogs?

Unfortunately, there’s no cure or treatment for a gluten allergy, as such. However, it’s extremely simple to keep the symptoms at bay. All you need to do is keep her on a completely gluten-free diet and she’ll be right as rain. These days, this shouldn’t pose much of a challenge to you at all. There is a huge variety of commercially available gluten-free dog food that you can purchase from most pet shops and even some grocery stores. You can also find gluten-free treats, so your precious pooch doesn’t have to miss out on snack time. As long as you’re strict with the gluten-free diet, she’ll be the same as every other pup at the dog park.

Lauren Corona

Lauren Corona is a freelance writer from merry old England. She specializes in writing about dogs and other critters. Lauren lives near Oxford, with her gorgeous Doberman, Nola. When she's not tapping away at the keyboard, you'll find her walking in the woods with Nola-dog, raising money for the Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary, cooking vegan food, making zines and writing about herself in the third person.

More by Lauren Corona

New Bill Will Eliminate Housing Barriers for Pet Owners In California

View Article

The Benefits Of Probiotics For Dogs

Does your pooch have a rumbly tummy? This could be a digestive issue – here’s how probiotics for dogs help his system run smoothly. Probiotics are “good bacteria” that live in your dogs (and your) digestive system. These microorganisms can counter the harmful bacteria and yeast that can often be found in the GI tract, especially when there’s an underlying health issue. The balance between the two is, in most cases, easily kept by a healthy body, but in case something is amiss, your pet’s system will require external help to boost the levels of good bacteria in his gastrointestinal tract. Enriching their diet with probiotic foods can help, especially in milder cases, and stomach-soothing foods such as pumpkin and yogurt can help natural gut probiotics replenish their numbers. Similarly, dog probiotic supplements come more than handy in these cases, as they are designed to quickly build up the colonies of beneficial bacteria in your pet’s gut. Most canines already have a range of friendly gut flora in their system but, even in those cases where there are no apparent digestive issues, there’s no harm in giving a probiotic supplement to help build a strong colony of good bacteria. These beneficial bacteria can provide a whole host of health benefits for your four-legged friend. Related: Gluten Allergies And Intolerance In Dogs What Are the Main Health Benefits of Probiotics? The main role of dog probiotics is to support your pet’s digestive health and boost their immune system in the process. The presence of good bacteria in your pet’s GI tract has plenty of other benefits, though. A healthy GI tract is a good foundation for your pet’s overall health, and introducing dog probiotics into their diet can lead to a host of benefits, including: Relieving yeast infections and yeast-related skin issuesHelping to reduce bad breathFostering healthy digestionHelping to reduce unpleasant gas odors and reduce gas in generalSupporting a stronger immune systemHelping stop diarrhea, constipation and loose stoolsProviding relief and treating a range of digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome or intestinal inflammation Related: Top 10 Natural Supplements For Dogs Are Probiotics Good for Dogs With Gastrointestinal Issues? Since probiotics increase the health of your pup’s digestive system, any pooch with GI issues can really benefit from receiving a probiotic supplement. Supplementing with probiotics can go a long way to help dogs with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease. Even if your canine companion hasn’t been diagnosed with a gastrointestinal issue, but suffers from frequent bouts of diarrhea or constipation, probiotics could help. That said, if your pooch does suffer from such symptoms, you should have a vet rule out any underlying medical issues. It is also important to note that not all types of probiotics for dogs are potent enough to treat gastrointestinal issues- some are meant for preventive use only. while some plain pumpkin puree could soothe an upset tummy, chances are that it won’t be enough to help your pet get his IBS or inflammation. Studies have shown that certain strains of good bacteria are beneficial to pets, and it’s these particular ones you need to look for when buying dog probiotics: Lactobacillus acidophilusLactobacillus rhamnosus (strain GG)Enterococcus faecium (strain SF68)Bacillus coagulansBifidobacterium animalis (strain AHC7) Regrowing Good Bacteria Although dogs should be able to maintain a good level of friendly bacteria, there are times when these bacteria colonies may be depleted, and this is when your pooch especially needs to be given probiotics. One of the main times that your dog may have an unbalanced digestive system is after a course of antibiotics, as these drugs target bacteria in your dog’s system, but don’t differentiate between good and bad kinds. Other reasons why your pooch might be lacking in good bacteria include old age, a poor diet, a low immune system, stress or exposure to pesticides and other chemicals. Regardless of the reason behind it, it is crucial to make sure that your pet’s gut flora isn’t overtaken with bad bacteria. There are plenty of ways to do that, luckily- it will all depend on your preferences and how severe the depletion is. The best way to quickly and efficiently repopulate your pet’s gastrointestinal system with beneficial bacteria is to introduce them back through with high-quality dog probiotic supplements. Choose between those that can be offered as a treat, such as Bernie’s Perfect Poop, or go for powdered formula or liquid formulas that can be masked with food if your pet’s picky with his treats and meals. Depending on the formula you pick, you can see serious improvement in a matter of days, both in your pet’s digestion and their overall behavior. And if you’re trying to be proactive and just want to make sure your pets healthy bacteria are thriving, you might prefer using natural probiotic foods such as yogurt, buttermilk, kefir, bananas, flaxseed and others. Are There Any Potential Problems With Giving Probiotics to Dogs? In general, probiotics aren’t harmful, the only issue is that they’re normally not regulated. As such, veterinarians recommend that you discuss the use of probiotics with them, so that they can approve the particular brand that you’re using or advise you which type might be suitable for your dog. Probiotics can also be an issue if your dog suffers from an autoimmune disease, as they can cause too much stimulation to the immune system and cause further issues. In most cases, probiotics aren’t necessarily an essential supplement for your precious pooch, but there are times when they’re likely to be of major benefit, for instance after a course of antibiotics. There is genuine scientific merit to probiotic supplements, so it’s definitely worth considering whether or not your dog would benefit from taking them, either on a regular basis or now and again to boost gut health. Just make sure you pick those that are made for dogs specifically- your pet can’t use supplements you use. There are plenty of trusted brands to choose from, though- and many different formulas that are designed to target specific issues.

What Are The Most Common Dog Food Allergies?

Itchy paws, red ears, loss of fur – could your dog be suffering from common dog food allergies? Here are some of the most frequent causes and what to do about it.Food allergies and intolerances in humans seem to be on the rise, but did you know that dogs can be affected by food allergies as well? The same foods that cause allergies in humans can also cause allergic reactions in dogs and they can be severe in some cases. Let’s talk about common dog food allergies well as the signs of food allergies and treatment options.Related: Is There A Difference Between Natural Vs Organic Dog Food?Common Dog Food AllergiesFood allergies account for about 20 percent of all allergies affecting dogs and they affect all breeds, ages, and sexes similarly. In dogs, food allergies can develop as early as five months of age or as late as 12 years. In many cases, dogs with food allergies also have contact allergies to things like dust, perfumes, or certain chemicals. Some of the most common food allergens affecting dogs include:BeefDairyChickenLambFishEggsCornWheatSoyRelated: Gluten Allergies And Intolerance In DogsAs is true for humans, there is a difference between food allergies and food intolerance in dogs. Food intolerance typically produces gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea while food allergies produce allergic reactions like itching and skin problems. The treatment for food allergies and food intolerances is the same – avoidance of the offending food.Signs and Symptoms of Food AllergiesThe symptoms of food allergies in dogs are similar regardless of what type of food is causing the reaction. The most common symptom is intense itching, especially on the face, feet, ears, and forelegs. Some dogs experience chronic or recurring ear infections as well as hair loss, hot spots, and recurring skin infections that do not respond to treatment. Excessive scratching is a common sign of food allergies, as is increased frequency of bowel movements. It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between food allergies and atopic (contact) allergies. A common sign of food allergies is that the symptoms persist all year round and if skin problems do not respond to medical treatment.Treatment for Food Allergies The best way to identify your dog’s food allergen is to conduct a food trial. During a food trial, you would feed your dog a diet that consists of a novel protein and carbohydrate for 12 weeks until all signs of the allergy have disappeared. Novel protein sources might include rabbit, venison, or even kangaroo while novel carbohydrates include things like sweet potato or brown rice. After the 12 weeks, you would then introduce common food allergens back into the diet one at a time and watch for a reaction. Once you have identified the culprit, you then simply need to keep your dog on a diet that does not contain that food allergen.Common Food Allergy-Related Mistakes When it comes to addressing food allergies in your dog, there are some common mistakes that you may experience along the way. Don’t Forget About the Treats When you make the commitment to a food trial, there is more to consider than just the ingredients in your dog’s food. You need to also pay careful attention to any treats or snacks that you may be feeding in between mealtimes. Food allergies can be incredibly sensitive, and it may take as little as a single treat with the offending allergen to set your dog off and destroy your food trial results entirely. Get the Whole Family On-BoardThis is a mistake often seen in larger families. If there are multiple family members that all have access to your dog on a regular basis, everyone needs to be on the same page in terms of any dietary rules and restrictions. For example, if you believe that your dog may be allergic to chicken and put the time into selecting chicken-free treats and food, but your child is still feeding small pieces of chicken under the dining room table or behind your back, you are fighting a losing battle. Worse yet, it could leave you believing that chicken isn’t actually the cause of your dog’s problems even if it is! Failing to Read Past the First 5 Ingredients There is a lot of advice out there pointing at the first 5 ingredients of a dog’s food as the most important. While it’s true that these ingredients hold a lot of weight, making up a good majority of your dog’s meal, don’t discount the smaller ingredients later on the list. For example, there are many fish-based dog foods that still contain chicken by-products or other ingredients that prevent the food from qualifying as a single-protein diet. Don’t Forget to Address the Non-Food Allergens Of course, there is always the possibility that the allergic reaction you are seeing is caused by something other than your dog’s food. There is no way to completely eliminate all environmental allergens (unless you live in a bubble with no plant life), but there are some steps that you can take to help reduce the risk that your dog is reacting to something in your home or yard. First, always watch for signs that your dog may be dealing with fleas. These tiny, hard-to-spot pests can trigger a reaction called ‘flea allergy dermatitis’ which can mimic the skin conditions associated with food allergies. Use a flea prevention product all year long. If you notice that your dog is biting or scratching at himself excessively, search for any signs of flea droppings. They look like black rice and the easiest place to see these is often around the groin area. Another common environmental trigger to watch out for is the use of scented laundry products. Dogs that are sensitive to the chemicals in these products may experience a reaction simply from cuddling with a person wearing clothes that have been washed using them or sleeping on contaminated bedding. Food allergies in dogs are becoming an increasing concern with pet parents, and there are more formulas on the market that eliminate the offending ingredient while providing all the nutrients your dog needs. If you suspect that your dog is suffering from a food allergy you should consult with your veterinarian and take steps to identify the allergen and then eliminate it from your dog’s diet.

Followers Cry Fowl as Staffie Peggy and Magpie Molly, Separated

Fans of the social media darlings start an online campaign to reunite the odd couple.

Stray Dog Becomes Surrogate for Abandoned Puppies at Texas Shelter

A stray Great Pyrenees dog, found wandering the streets of Fort Bend County, Texas, became a surrogate mother to a litter of six abandoned puppies.In late October, a concerned citizen found an abandoned litter of puppies. After failing to locate the pups’ mother in the surrounding area, the person brought the puppies to Fort Bend County Animal Services. “They were tiny, needing immediate bottle feeding and care, they were just about a week to 10 days old,” said Rene Vasquez, the director of Fort Bend County Animal Services, to PEOPLE.Although the puppies arrived at the shelter in good condition, they were starving and needed nourishment ASAP. The Fort Bening County Animal Services took to social media to look for fosters to take in the puppies and provide them with around-the-clock bottle feedings. Around the same time, another local found a stray Great Pyrenees, named Nova, who was full of milk. While it was clear that Nova had a litter recently, her puppies were nowhere to be found. The woman who found Nova saw the shelter’s online call for help and decided to contact them with a different idea. Instead of using volunteers to do the bottle feedings, she suggested bringing Nova by to see if the dog would accept to nurse the puppies. The shelter loved this idea and decided to give Nova a chance. A few seconds after Nova met the puppies it became apparent that the shelter made the right decision. “Nova was so happy to see the puppies! She took to them right away, and they were very happy to have a mama and food,” Vasquez shared. Although the abandoned puppies aren’t Nova’s biological litter, she accepted them as if they were her own. Acting like a true momma, Nova quickly allowed the pups to nurse and cuddle close to her for warmth. Thanks to Nova’s maternal instincts the puppies are doing well and growing quickly.“We were so happy that Nova was able to step up and be a mom for them. Sometimes, it is difficult to find bottle feeders and fosters for when the puppies or kittens are so little, so to have a nursing mom available to accept the babies is definitely a good day,” said Vasquez. Nova and the puppies, five boys and one girl, are currently living in a foster home. The fosters caring for the four-legged bunch plan to adopt Nova once the puppies are weaned. “The puppies will stay with Nova until they are weaned, and then we will start looking for homes for them. They will also be vaccinated, microchipped, and fixed before going to their forever homes,” the shelter’s director added. The case of Nova and her adopted litter has a happy ending, but not all stories end on a positive note. “As an industry, we are facing a real crisis in animal welfare across the country with an abundance of stray animals and not enough adopters or fosters to help the overcrowded shelters and rescues. Nova and her puppies illustrate the importance of spaying and neutering,” said the Fort Bend County Animal Services director.Shelters around the country are struggling to take in new animals due to a lack of forever homes and overcrowding. Each year, millions of pets end up in shelters across the nation, most of which are never adopted into a forever home. If you’re looking for a four-legged companion, visit your local shelter or rescue organization to see which of their residents would make a perfect addition to your home. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need?

Sleep allows all big and little creatures to rest, regenerate, grow, and gain strength for further milestones in life. Dogs, too, need to have enough  sleep to thrive – both during the day and through the night. But some doggos love to snooze more and others, and then there are those who won’t sleep that much at all. So what is the bottom line? How much sleep do dogs need exactly? While there can’t be a general, straightforward answer (after all, not all dogs are identical), there are some general rules and guidelines to follow. How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need Daily?The amount of sleep a dog needs can vary depending on factors such as their age, breed, and activity level. Generally, dogs sleep a significant portion of the day, and their sleep patterns can be quite different from humans. Here's a rough guideline for how much sleep dogs typically need on a daily basis – based on their age, lifestyle, and so on.Puppies, naturally, need a lot of sleep, usually around 18 to 20 hours a day. They have bursts of energy and playfulness, which are followed by periods of deep sleep. Puppies are still growing, and sleep is essential for their development.Adult dogs, on the other hand, are not such sleepy heads. Still, they will sleep more often than not. Most adult dogs sleep around 12 to 14 hours a day, although this can vary. Larger breeds tend to sleep more than smaller breeds. Active and working dogs, such as herding or hunting breeds, may require more sleep to recover from their daily activities. There are also seniors, who get tired more quickly and need plenty of rest during the daytime. Older dogs may sleep more than younger adults, often in the range of 14 to 16 hours a day. Senior dogs tend to be less active and love to snooze whenever there’s a chance. It's important to note that individual dogs can have different sleep needs. Some dogs may sleep more or less than the average, and this can be influenced by their overall health and well-being. It's also influenced by their daily routine, exercise, and mental stimulation. Then again, some doggos are straight-out lazy – they love to snooze, hate to jump around and exercise, and snore as much as they want! This is not something you should worry about unless it comes about suddenly. That’s just how some dogs are. 

FDA Approves New Treatment for Anxiety and Fear in Cats

It’s no secret that most cats get really stressed out when they have to leave the house, especially for a trip to the veterinarian. And the anxiety and fear that your pet experiences can certainly affect you as a pet parent as well, making you feel awful about having to put your cat through such a scary experience.The good news is there are things you can try to help reduce the stress your kitty feels, and one of the latest solutions is a new treatment recently approved by the FDA.Bonqat for CatsIn November 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved pregabalin, also known as Bonqat, for cats.The oral solution is not a sedative; instead, it affects the neurotransmitters that are involved in acute anxiety and fear. Therefore, it can be used to reduce the stress experienced by cats who are being transported for any reason, and it can be helpful for those who get frightened when they go to the vet.To determine if this medicine would be effective, cats were given either a placebo or Bonqat before being transported by car and examined by a veterinarian (the cats had a history of being fearful and/or anxious under those circumstances). The results? While roughly one-third of the kitties who got the placebo had a positive response, just over half of those given the medicine did better while being transported and examined. Also, over the course of two examinations, 77% of the kitties who took Bonqat had less fear and anxiety, while 46% of those given the placebo exhibited an improvement in their fear and anxiety levels.Discuss Bonqat with Your VeterinarianYou can only get Bonqat with a prescription from your veterinarian, so discuss its pros and cons to determine if this medicine would be right for your cat based on factors like age and medical conditions. And bear in mind that side effects, such as ataxia, vomiting, and lethargy, might occur with Bonqat.To reap the benefits of Bonqat, you simply give it to your cat about 1.5 hours prior to transporting them or taking them to the vet. This medicine is a liquid, and it can be given to your pet with a bit of food.Also, there are some precautions that need to be taken while administering this medicine to your cat. For example, it shouldn’t make contact with your eyes, mucous membranes, or skin. So, in addition to talking to your vet about how to use it correctly to ensure your cat gets the best results, you also want to be well-informed about how to handle this medicine safely.For more information about Bonqat and how it works, click here.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Vegan Dogs and Cats? Maybe!

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

Study Finds Pets Didn't Make People Happier During the Pandemic

Would you say that your pet help you feel better during the pandemic? Countless pet parents, myself included, would say they experienced less stress and anxiety during lockdown thanks to their four-legged companions. However, a new study led by researchers from Michigan State University suggests otherwise. Researchers couldn’t find a reliable association between pet ownership and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic, even though owners claimed pets improved their lives. The pandemic was extremely stressful for everyone. The research team from Michigan State University theorized that the pandemic created ideal conditions to determine how much happiness and comfort pets actually provide to their families. The study, published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, evaluated 767 people on three separate occasions in May 2020. The researchers used a mixed-method approach, looking at several indicators of well-being. They also asked owners in an open-ended question to think about the role of pets. Unsurprisingly, pet owners reported their pets made them happy. Owners claimed pets help them feel more positive emotions and provide companionship and affection, but also expressed worry about their pet’s well-being and reported their pets interfered with working remotely. But when researchers compared the happiness of pet owners to levels seen in non-pet owners they made a surprising discovery. Shockingly, the data showed no difference in the well-being of pet owners and non-pet owners over time. The research team explained that it did not matter what type of pet people owned, how many pets they had, or how close owners were with their pets. The personalities of the owners weren’t a factor either. “People say pets make them happy, but when we actually measure happiness that doesn’t appear to be the case,” said William Chopik, an associate professor in MSU’s Department of Psychology and co-author of the study, in a university release. “People see friends as lonely or wanting companionship, and they recommend getting a pet. But it’s unlikely to be as transformative as people think,” added Chopik. The research team also explored several other potential reasons as to why there was no difference in the happiness levels of pet owners and non-pet owners. The most likely reason might be that non-pet owners have found ways to fill their lives with activities and interests that make them as happy as owning a pet would. “Staking all of your hope on a pet making you feel better is probably unfair and maybe costly, given other things you could do in your life that could improve your happiness,”  said Chopik. Another study, involving 4,237 people, beginning at the start of the pandemic and ending in December 2021, had similar findings. Although owners grew closer to their pets, especially dogs, during the pandemic, that didn’t stave off stress.In fact, the lowest stress levels were seen in non-pet owners. When you think about it, these results kind of make sense - pet owners had an additional mouth to feed during the lockdown and had limited opportunities to take their dogs out for a walk or play session. The results of these studies are surprising, to say the least. I was positive that I was happier than my poochless friends during the lockdown, but guess that wasn’t the case. After thinking about this a bit more, I realized that maybe we shouldn’t expect so much from our four-legged companions. Yes, there are many benefits to owning a pet, and pets can make us happy, but ultimately happiness depends on ourselves. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Guinness World Record Holder, Bobi "Earns His Wings"

31-Year-Old Pooch Passes Away with Family by His Side

A Dog is Adopted After 7 Years in Shelter After An Emotional Discovery

One pet shelter in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, has been the home of a darling rescue dog named Ella for 7 long years. But the long wait for a happy ending is finally over – as Ella was recently adopted, and under very special circumstances at that. The staff at  Bloomsburg Animal Resource Center have titled this “an extremely special adoption”, and advised readers that “they might want to grab a tissue real quick for this one”.Ella had been at the shelter for the last seven years, making her the center’s longest resident. But recently, things took a turn for the better, when Ella was spotted by Kaitlyn, a resident who quickly fell in love with the rescue pooch. When coming to the center, Kaitlyn said that her long-time furry friend, Jo, recently passed away, and now she was ready to meet a new dog.And as soon as the two met, the match was made. It was obvious that they were meant for each other. Ella quickly made everyone know that Kaitlyn was her “human”. Usually, it wasn’t so. Ella was a victim of abuse and had a long history of fear and aggression. It would take several visits for her to get relaxed around strangers. But with Kaitlyn, this was not the case. The bond was near-instant. “She immediately walked over to Kaitlyn with no hesitation, allowing her to give Ella scratches and pets right away,” the staff of the adoption center said.At the end of the adoption meeting, when Kaitlyn was about to leave, she suddenly noticed something that made her overwhelmingly emotional. What she spotted was the bandana that Ella was wearing around her neck. Her eyes welling with tears, Kaitlyn said to the staff that it was the exact bandana that belonged to her recently passed away dog, Jo. She said that after the passing, she donated all the bandanas to the center. “This bandana that Ella is wearing, it’s Jo’s. I donated them all here when he passed,” Kaitlyn said, quickly showing a picture of Jo wearing it. The symbolism and the connection were incredible. It was a sign that the two were meant to be together. When they realized what happened, the staff was moved to tears: “Out of the 20 dogs in our shelter right now, this bandana. This specific bandana. Jo’s bandana. It was on Ella.”Later, Kaitlyn said that the bandana is a sign: “I like to think of it as Jo’s stamp of approval.”And so it was, that after 7 long years of waiting, the kind and gentle Ella found her new forever home, and a human friend who would treat her right.“Every morning, Ella used to pop up off her bed and greet you at the door of her kennel right away,” the staff at the Animal Resource Center said. “We’ll miss that tomorrow, it’ll be such a bittersweet moment realizing that as we pause to reflect on a few of our favorites times with Ella — but my goodness the amount of pure happiness we will feel every day knowing Ella finally got what she deserved: ELLA GOT ADOPTED.”

Never Scoop Again With Litter-Robot, The Purrfect Gift For Cat Lovers

Cats like a clean litter box just as much as cat owners do, but scooping clumps can be a hassle. Whisker’s Litter-Robot, the highest-rated, self-cleaning litter box for cats, eliminates the need to scoop the litter box. The newest model, Litter-Robot 4, provides a clean bed of litter for your cats after every use. It features patented sifting technology that sifts out waste after every use and deposits it into a tightly-sealed waste drawer, helping to keep odor under control. For Black Friday, you can scoop one up for less, with $75 off bundles with the Purrfect Litter-Robot accessories you will want.What Sets the Litter-Robot Apart? Litter-Robot 4 features an advanced, patented, sifting technology with QuietSift™ for nearly-silent sifting. That’s right, you don’t have to scoop and you don’t hear the litter being sifted. What could be better?

Can Stress or Anxiety Cause Diarrhea in Dogs?

Dogs are no strangers to stress and anxiety. While most pooches are the picture of the tail-wagging, carefree dog whose only stress is that they have to wait for their next meal, some have it a bit more ruff. Anxiety in dogs can vary from mild to severe, triggered by specific and occasional stressors (such as  fireworks, for example) or present on a daily level. Naturally, your pet’s state of mind has a big impact on their overall health, so it doesn’t surprise that dogs with anxiety often have tummy issues. But does that mean that a stressful situation or anxiety can directly cause diarrhea in dogs? Having in mind that, in a way, your pet’s mental health is connected to their digestion, it sounds highly probable.How Stress and Anxiety Can Cause DiarrheaSo how does it work? The connection between the brain and the gut, often referred to as the gut-brain axis, plays a crucial role in the overall health and well-being of dogs. When dogs experience stress or anxiety, it can trigger a cascade of physiological responses, including changes in gut motility, secretion of digestive enzymes, and alterations in the composition of gut microbiota. These disruptions can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea.When stress or anxiety takes hold, it's not just a matter of frazzled nerves. These emotional states can set off a domino effect within your dog's digestive system. Rather than a simple list of effects, think of it as a cascade of events:Picture your dog feeling anxious during a  thunderstorm or while being left alone. This emotional response triggers a surge of adrenaline, part of the body's "fight or flight" response. Blood flow shifts away from the digestive organs and toward the muscles, heart, and lungs, hastening gut motility.Meanwhile, the delicate balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, known as the microbiome, is disrupted by stress. This dysbiosis can lead to inflammation, changes in gut permeability, and an upset stomach.Furthermore, chronic stress weakens the immune system, leaving your dog more susceptible to infections and inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.Beyond these physiological effects, stress-related behaviors like excessive chewing,  licking, or ingesting non-food items can irritate the digestive tract, exacerbating diarrhea.How To Deal With Stress-Related Diarrhea in DogsIf your dog is experiencing stress-related diarrhea, there are several things you can do to alleviate their discomfort and ensure a speedier recovery.Before anything else, it’s essential to identify and address stressors. Determine the underlying causes of your dog's stress or anxiety and take steps to minimize or eliminate them where possible. This may involve providing a calm, predictable environment, addressing separation anxiety, or using  desensitization techniques for noise phobias.Next, support their digestion with a mild, nurturing diet and the right supplements. Your pet’s tummy is upset, so you shouldn’t neglect the importance of rebalancing their gut biome and helping their digestion. Instead of their usual kibble, offer them a bit of broth, some cooked rice, or boiled chicken breast. Additionally, a digestive supplement such as  Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets FortiFlora Powder can work wonders in managing symptoms of diarrhea. With a combination of special probiotics and antioxidants, this powdered supplement will quickly restore your pet’s GI tract and help their stool get back to its normal consistency. And since it’s packed with live microorganisms to benefit beneficial intestinal microflora, it can also help treat excessive gas and other digestion-related troubles, so it’s good to keep stocked in your pet’s first aid kit, especially if they have a sensitive stomach. 

TikTok "Cheese Tax" Video Seriously Resonates with Pet Owners

Viral TikTok video spills the beans on sharing with our pooches!

Poll Reveals Biggest Pet Peeves of Dog Owners in the U.S.

We love our dogs endlessly, but that doesn’t mean they don’t occasionally get under our skin. Even the most beloved pets come with a little “extra baggage,” introducing unique challenges and hurdles in our lives.If you have ever had to cancel plans because you couldn’t find a pet sitter or call into work to take your pet to the emergency vet because they ate something they shouldn’t, you understand.Of course, they are worth the effort!But what is the biggest annoyance faced by pet parents? This is the question that Forbes Advisor set out to answer with a recent nationwide poll. They surveyed 10,000 dog parents to uncover their biggest pet peeves, both nationally and state-by-state.Dog parents across the country revealed their biggest frustration was finding a dog sitter when traveling, as shared by 37.3% of those surveyed. This was also the top in 43 states and ranked among the top three responses in all 50.This was followed by:Finding dog-friendly hotels (23.6%)Having to walk/exercise their dog (23.3%)The cost of owning a dog (22.9%)Excessive barking (19.8%)Excessive shedding (17.5%)The answer highlights the importance of finding and creating a list of trusted pet sitters before you need one. This ensures that you’re covered not only when making travel plans but also in the event of an emergency.There are many ways to find a trusted pet sitter. Consider asking your veterinarian, groomer, or friends/family for recommendations. You can also check websites like Fetch and Rover for pet sitters in your area or browse marketplace-style listings on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or Kijiji.Just make sure you are doing your due diligence. Don’t leave your beloved pet with a complete stranger. Instead, take time to ask questions, check reviews, and verify credentials.At the bottom of the list, the least reported annoyance was “when my dog jumps up on/lays on furniture or beds,” reported by only 5.32% of dog owners. Delaware and Missouri were the states where this was most often listed as one of their top annoyances, while those in New Hampshire, North Carolina, and Rhode Island reported it the least.Additionally, the following answers were at the bottom of the list:Having to take their dog to the groomer (7.55%)Excessive drooling/slobber (7.56%)Checking their dog for ticks (7.58%)Their dog taking over the bed (7.72%)Are you interested in a state-by-state breakdown? Forbes Advisor also shared a chart highlighting the top three pet peeves for each state, giving you a more detailed look at the opinions of other dog parents in your area.Overall, the survey provides a fascinating insight into the struggles faced by dog parents. For many, it may serve as a reminder that pet ownership isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Adding a dog to your family is a commitment, one that requires a willingness to make changes or sacrifices to meet their needs.If you occasionally struggle with frustration related to these changes, you’re not alone. Thousands of pet parents across the country also feel this way!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.

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.

What to Know About Osteoarthritis in Cats

Osteoarthritis, also referred to as OA, is a condition that’s common in cats – experts have found that 90% of kitties over the age of 12 have it. And because cats may hide the signs, it can be overlooked, so it’s a good idea to learn about the symptoms and keep an eye out for them, especially as your pet gets older. The good news is, if your feline friend is diagnosed with this condition, there are things you can do to help her experience less pain.

Royal Corgis Make Way for Jack Russell Terriers

New palace pooches get the royal treatment they deserve.

Top stories

Gluten Allergies And Intolerance In Dogs

New Bill Will Eliminate Housing Barriers for Pet Owners In California

Martha Stewart's Persian Cat, Empress Tang, Crosses the Rainbow Bridge

Top stories

Gluten Allergies And Intolerance In Dogs

Related articles