How to Read Your Dog’s Poop

by Mary Simpson

Published: April 24th, 2019

It’s not on any best-seller list, but reading your dog’s poop can help you understand his health. Here’s how to read your dog’s poop and understand what it’s saying.

While it’s not as mysterious as palm-reading, it can certainly predict his future from a health and wellness standpoint. If you’re a pet owner you probably know what I’m talking about… reading your dog’s poop. And with all of us dog-walking pet parents conditioned to stoop and scoop, it’s most definitely an opportunity to get up close and personal with our little guy’s digestive system.

Right off the bat, let’s assume he is pooping. If he’s not – or his daily walks don’t seem to be as “productive” as they normally are – there’s no need to worry just yet. There could be a few simple reasons:

Too little fiber in his diet (stuff just ain’t moving)
Over-grooming (hair isn’t easy to pass)
Insufficient water (always fill that bowl)
A side-effect from medication he may be on (check the label)
Not enough exercise (to help stimulate a poop)

But if you haven’t needed to stoop and scoop for 48 hours or longer, it could be more serious, requiring a visit to your vet to check on potential problems such as:

Enlarged prostate gland
Foreign objects (such as stones, plants, toys, bones… caught in his intestinal tract)
A mass or tumor that’s causing an obstruction
Dehydration (that can be symptomatic of an undiagnosed illness)

Now, assuming all is in order from an output basis, here are the basics on how to understand what you’re scooping up into that little scented plastic bag.

Diarrhea

The most obvious sign that something is amiss is when your pooch has diarrhea. It could be caused by something as simple as a change in diet or a food intolerance (e.g. allergic reaction or sensitivity to something he just ate) or it could be a bacterial infection, viral infection or parasites from something yucky he scarfed down when you weren’t looking.

If it’s short-term and highly watery, it may be the result of a high-stress situation such as a change of home or pet parent that is causing this dramatic physical reaction. My pooch experienced explosive diarrhea immediately after his first grooming session… and I thank my lucky stars he made it home and into our backyard before it happened.

While diarrhea in dogs isn’t uncommon, it should resolve itself within 24 hours. If your pooch returns to his normal self within a day, it’s safe to just keep an eye on his eating patterns and poop out-put to ensure he’s doing better. However, if he seems lethargic, is warm to the touch and is off his food, it’s time to call your vet. He may be suffering from a viral infection or a parasitic infection that will require treatment to prevent him from becoming seriously dehydrated. Particularly in puppies, parasites can be passed on from their mom, so an immediate resolution is needed.

Related: What is Giardia in Dogs?

Soft Poop

If your pooch has combo poop – initially firm but ending with a soft stool – it could be what’s called small bowel diarrhea. Causes of SMB range from a food intolerance, maldigestion of his food, irritable bowel syndrome or it could be a parasite he’s picked up. Initially, it can be managed by withholding his food (not his water), for 24 – 48 hours. If it stops, begin to feed him small amounts of a bland, low-fat food spaced throughout the day. Gradually increase the portion amounts and slowly transition to his regular food. If this doesn’t work, time for a visit to your vet.

Soft Poop Covered with Mucous

Think of mucous as a form of self-protection that your body produces when something is wrong. Remember your last head cold? It’s the same idea, but with dog poop it’s telling you that your pooch has a bowel or intestinal inflammation, not a sinus infection. As with any swelling or irritation, it can be painful, it can prevent proper digestion of his food and ultimately lead to him becoming malnourished. If this type of poop persists, play it safe and get him in to your vet. Each case is specific to the dog and needs to have a prescribed course of treatment

Greasy or Shiny Looking Poop

I experienced this with my Schnoodles when they first arrived in my home. Friends swore by crating to avoid the habitual morning messes on the living room floor. But to me, it was clear this wasn’t behavioral, but a physical issue they couldn’t control. So, I went to my vet and he put them on a top-quality, low-fat diet. Problem solved. For any one else with a dog who’s poop looks oddly greasy, you may need to revisit his kibble blend or cut out the table scrap treats. Too much fat in his diet can lead to pancreatitis – a serious ailment that can be life threatening.

Black or Maroon Colored Poop

Simply put, that dark, maroon looking poop is the result of blood that has been digested and then passed through your pet’s system. It means that somewhere in his upper digestive tract, something is very wrong. It could be an injury from something he shouldn’t have eaten (e.g. chicken bones or a splintered stick), it could be caused by a bleeding ulcer or it could be more serious such as a cancer. This situation won’t eventually resolve itself. You need to get him in to your vet pronto for a proper diagnosis and course of treatment.

Poop Tinged with Fresh Blood

Whether firm, soft or diarrhea, any poop that is tinged with bright red blood or blood clots indicates an open wound that is likely in his large intestine or anus. It could be caused by a rupture of his intestinal wall from something he has ingested (again, those dread chicken bones) or it might be the result of something more serious, such as a tumor or ulcer that has opened up.

Poop Infused with Parasites

If you’re about to bag your pet’s poop and discover little grains of what looks like white rice or worse, long skinny worms, it’s likely you’re looking at tapeworms. They’re parasite that can be picked up by your dog from him simply swallowing an infected flea when grooming himself. That flea carries the larvae of the tapeworm and once it settles into his digestive track, it begins to grow by burrowing into his small intestine and feeding on blood and nutrients. The adult tapeworm creates egg packets or segments that eventually break away and are passed from your dog’s body when he poops. These are what resemble grains of rice that are often moving in his poop. Diagnosis and treatment by a vet are a fairly easy process.

Small, Hard Stools

If your dog seems to squat, ready to relieve himself but nothing comes out, or its just small, hard stools, it’s likely that he’s constipated. It’s not unusual for dogs to get “bunged up” but it does need to be monitored. If your pup hasn’t pooped within a span of 48 hours, its time to call in the experts – your vet. The cause may be as simple as adding a little more fiber to his diet, such as mashed pumpkin (the unsweetened variety) or a wheat bran product that will help move things along. More exercise, a laxative and in some instances an enema might be prescribed. As with humans, the inability to empty his colon can cause your dog great discomfort and result in him becoming lethargic, vomiting and losing his appetite.

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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How to Read Your Dog’s Vital Signs

When your dog is in medical distress, you need to know how to read his vital signs. We explain what to check and how to do it. Regardless of age, breed or health, it’s important to know how to quickly and accurately check your dog’s vital signs. Equally important, is that you not only take, but record those vital signs today – while he’s healthy, relaxed and resting. This will become your benchmark and help you determine when rapid breathing or an accelerated heart rate is normal or cause for concern. Let’s look at how to read and measure his respiration, heart rate, temperature and hydration. Related: What You Need To Know About Heat Stroke In Dogs Respiration Rate: Typically, dogs take an average of 24 breaths per minute when resting. But that’s just an average. Larger dogs breathe more slowly and smaller dogs more quickly. So, breaths per minute can range from a low of 10 to a high of 35. Using a stopwatch or clock with second hand, count the number of times your dog’s chest rises and falls over the space of 30 seconds. Each rise/fall, counts as one breath. If not easily visible, place your hand on his chest, as you count. Repeat this three times to ensure an accurate reading. Double it, and you have his breathing rate per minute. Each breath should be quiet (unless he’s a brachycephalic breed). If it’s fast without reason (recent exercise or stressor) it could be a health problem that needs to be checked out by your vet Related: Why Do Dogs Circle Before They Lie Down? Heart Rate: Just like respiration, heart rates vary by size. A puppy or small breed will land in the range of 90 to 160 beats per minute. In larger dogs, this drops to between 65 and 90 beats. Know what’s normal for your own dog. To feel your dog’s heartbeat, place one hand over his left side, just behind his front leg. If you’re having trouble, try the inside top of his hind leg by the femoral artery. Using a stopwatch or clock with second hand, count the number of beats over the space of 30 seconds. Repeat this step three times to ensure an accurate reading. Double it, and you have his heart beats per minute (bpm). Dog’s that are excited or recently exercised will naturally have a faster heart rate. If you think its racing, compare it to his usual resting rate and if it remains higher, consult your vet. Temperature: A healthy adult dog has a temperature of between 100 and 102.5-degree Fahrenheit (38 to 39 degrees Celsius). As with humans, a spike or drop in temperature can indicate something’s wrong. An infrared digital thermometer is easiest. Just place inside your dog’s ear and you’ll have an accurate reading in seconds.For a rectal thermometer, apply petroleum jelly to the tip and insert between 1/2-inch to 2-inches into the dog’s rectum – depending on his size. Keep him standing and leave it in place for two minutes for an accurate reading. An above normal temperature over an extended period of time can be a sign of illness or over-heating. Lower than normal can be a sign of hypothermia. If either condition persists, speak with your vet. Hydration Levels Dehydration is life-threatening so you need to be diligent in checking for signs. Particularly during warmer weather, lengthy exercise sessions or bouts of illness that have caused vomiting and diarrhea. If his gums are wet, his hydration level is good. If they’re dry or tacky, he’s becoming dehydrated and a bowl of water should be sufficient. Do a quick capillary refill check. Gently press your finger against his gums, then remove. If the white pressure point quickly returns to pink, he’s hydrated. If it takes a while, he’s dehydrated. Do the scruff test by pinching a small section of skin on his back. If it doesn’t fall quickly back into place, his dehydration level is becoming severe and he needs medical attention. Dehydrating pets often lose their appetite and refuse to drink. This results in a loss of electrolytes and potential organ failure so immediately involve your vet in choosing the right electrolyte replacement fluid.

Cesar Millan Reads to Your Dog While You’re Out, Thanks to Audible

Reading is fun-damental… for dogs! Cesar Millan won’t be whispering to your dog, he’ll be reading to him, with Audible’s latest offering to pet parents. Audiobook company Audible has teamed up with ‘The Dog Whisperer,’ Cesar Millan, to offer a new service to busy pet parents. The audiobook selections will be geared to dogs, but designed to help their humans feel less guilt when they have to be separated. Related: Rapper Hits All the Right Notes with Calming Song for Dogs [Video] In essence, these audiobooks will ease separation anxiety for humans when it comes to leaving their dogs! Millan believes that the books will help dogs and their owners be calmer when they are apart, and that humans can feel like they are giving their pooches a little ‘company’ when by themselves. The selection of books will be chosen by Millan, and have their own featured page on Audible’s website. But be cautioned, you just might want to listen in too, with titles like Soldier Dog and The Art of Racing In The Rain (Cesar’s pick this month)! The new venture is based on research from 2015 that showed dogs who were kenneled to be calmer and rested when listening to audiobooks, versus listening to music (even music designed for dogs!) or no background noise at all. More, Millan’s also looked into the effect of audiobooks on dogs and found that dogs tended to show positive behaviors after they’d listened to audiobooks. Millan believes audiobooks tend to have a consistency of tone that television, radio and some podcasts just don’t have, and humans can choose books where the narrator’s gender matches their gender, giving more familiarity and comfort to their dog. Related: Adorable New Photo Collection Captures Little Girl Dancing With Dogs Audible is a $14.95/subscription service, but they’ve released a new audiobook by Millan that is free for download. The company has also announced that $.10 of each download for the rest of the year will be donated to the North Shore Animal League in New York. So, really, what do you have to lose? You and your dog get some great ‘reading’ in and you help pets in a no-kill shelter. Pardon me while I go tell Alexa to choose a book for my pups right now!

All About Bowel Obstruction in Dogs

We don’t like to think about our dog’s pooping, but you should take notice. This is especially important when it comes to bowel obstruction in dogs. Dogs have a tendency to eat without thinking. They’ll put anything in their mouths that will fit, and they don’t seem to have any qualms about eating things that aren’t actually food. As much as you try to keep your dog away from things that he shouldn’t be eating, you can’t watch him every second of the day and there will come a time when he eats something he shouldn’t. Unfortunately, many dogs who eat things they shouldn’t be eating develop bowel obstructions, also known as intestinal blockage. This can be very serious and should not be ignored. Keep reading to learn more about bowel obstruction in dogs and how to handle it. Related: The Perfect Poop And Why It’s So Important What Are the Causes of Bowel Obstruction? Your dog’s daily diet shouldn’t cause any problems with his digestion – it is the other things he eats that could cause a problem. In the simplest of terms, bowel obstruction is caused by your dog swallowing something that is too large to pass through his intestinal tract. Because the item is too large, it gets stuck somewhere along the way. This may not be an immediate problem, but over time it can cause food to back up in the GI tract and may lead to symptoms such as the following: LethargyWeaknessDiarrheaVomitingLoss of appetiteDehydrationBloating Some of the items most likely to cause a bowel obstruction in dogs include socks, rocks, and bones. In some cases, bowel obstruction is not caused by something your dog ate. It can also be caused by tumors, gastrointestinal inflammation, intestinal parasites, and anatomical abnormalities. Having an intestinal parasite infection can also increase your dog’s risk for developing a bowel obstruction, even if he doesn’t eat something large. Related: How to Read Your Dog’s Poop What Should You Do About It? The first step in treating a bowel obstruction is to try to figure out what your dog ate that is causing the problem. If you don’t actually catch your dog in the act this can be tricky, but it will help your veterinarian diagnose and treat the problem if you have an idea what is causing the obstruction. In order to make a diagnosis, your vet may need to do an endoscopy – a procedure in which a small camera is inserted through the mouth into the stomach. This procedure can be used to biopsy masses as well and to retrieve small foreign bodies. In terms of treatment, it all depends on the size of the object your dog swallowed, the amount of time that has passed since, and its location in the GI tract. If you catch it right away, your vet may be able to induce vomiting to remove the item before it gets stuck in the intestines. In other cases, surgery may be required to remove the object. Bowel obstruction in dogs is no laughing matter. If your dog develops any of the symptoms above, or if you suspect that he’s eaten something he shouldn’t, be proactive in taking him to the vet. It’s always better to treat the problem early than to let it get worse.

Can Counterconditioning Help My Reactive Dog?

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Dog Who Spent 900 Days in a Shelter Returned 1 Day After Being Adopted

The staff at the Valley Animal Center in Fresno, California was joyous when a Labrador retriever pit bull mix named Sora was finally adopted. Sora, who was the shelter’s longest resident, has waited 900 days to be adopted into a loving, furever home.Sadly, less than 24 hours after the adoption, the poor pooch was returned to the shelter. The Valley Animal Center in Fresno, the largest no-kill shelter in California’s Central Valley, welcomed Sora nearly 4 years ago after the pup’s previous owners surrendered the pet. Since then, Sora hasn’t garnered much attention from prospective adopters, which is shocking to shelter staff who know the pooch well. “Sora is a high-energy dog who loves to play and gets super excited anytime she gets to go on walks,” said Sim Kaur from Valley Animal Center to Newsweek. According to Kaur, Sora loves to walk and hike and will make an amazing travel companion to an outdoorsy person. The sweet pooch also loves playing with tennis balls and is always in the mood for a game of fetch. Sora has tested well with children over the age of five and is affectionate and lovable with adults.Despite being overlooked for so many years, this cute pup recently caught the attention of a potential adopter. After a few meetings, the person decided to adopt Sora, giving this pooch the happy ending she deserved.Then, the worst possible thing happened! Just 24 hours later, the new owner called the shelter to say they would be returning the pup. Sora arrived at the shelter heartbroken and looked particularly sad to be back in the same kennel she called home for so many years.This turn of events shocked Kaur, who believed Sora’s adopters should have given her more time to decompress and settle in her new home before deciding to return the pet to the shelter.“Being in a shelter for many years affects the mental health of our adoptables and it is no different for Sora,” she added. “Sora did not get enough time to decompress in her new home and was introduced to new family members too quickly.”Sora’s sad story was posted on TikTok and has received more than 1.6 million views, leaving doggy lovers around the world in tears. Sharing the video of Sora with another pooch, Eros, who was also returned quickly after adoption, the shelter wrote: “Their tails wagging with hope as they were welcomed into their new home. However, after a short period of time, these shelter dogs found themselves back in their kennels. They are still hopeful that somewhere out there is their furever home where they will be cherished as they deserve.”One day is not enough time for a shelter dog to adjust to its new home. Especially, if the dog in question has spent more than 900 days stuck inside a shelter. Unfortunately, staff at animal shelters see this happen often. Some people who adopt shelter dogs simply don’t give them the time they need to adjust to a new home, and all the unfamiliar sights, smells, and people. It comes as no surprise, to most people, that any dog that has spent any time in a shelter, much less 900 days, will need some time to adapt to its new life and recover from the stress they have experienced. Hopefully, the next person who adopts Sora will understand her and give her the time she needs to adjust to her new home. This adorable pooch is still looking for her furever home. If you think Sora will fit right into your family, submit an adoption application here. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Are Dogs Smarter than Cats?

The rivalry between cats and dogs is an age-old thing. Many pet owners are divided in their affections, as some adore kitties, but others are strictly doggo lovers. And this rivalry poses an intriguing question – could there be a difference between cats and dogs? While both are cuddly and loveable, they are inevitably different. So, could it be possible that  dogs are smarter than cats, or vice versa? This is a popular question in the scientific world, and many tried answering it. Let’s see what they came up with.Are Dogs Smarter than Cats? For ages, the debate on the rivalry between cats and dogs has been ongoing. Ultimately, however, it all depends on how you define “smart”. Dogs are often loved for their obedience, their ability to be trained and follow commands, their unwavering loyalty, and their excellent guardian traits. Cats, on the other hand, are known for their independence, their adaptability and problem-solving skills, their free and restless spirit, and their cuddly nature. So, as we can see, while generally different in personalities, both of these animals possess certain cognitive skills – but is one smarter than the other?Recent studies have revealed that both dogs and cats possess unique cognitive abilities suited to their respective lifestyles and evolutionary histories. Meaning, they are completely different animals. Dogs, for example, originated from domesticated canines, far, far back in history. They were bred over thousands of years to work alongside humans, protect flocks, help with hunting, and guard homes. This, in turn, has likely influenced their ability to understand and communicate with us, and to be so devoted as pets. But cats are different. In stark contrast to doggos, cats have retained more of their wild instincts, allowing them to thrive in a variety of environments and situations.All of this means that you can’t really compare the intelligence of a cat and that of a dog. It’s like comparing apples and oranges – it just doesn’t go. Each animal excels in different areas and possesses different strengths. It's more accurate to appreciate the unique qualities of each species rather than trying to determine which one is "smarter."But even so, scientists tried to reach a decisive conclusion. They studied both cats and dogs and ultimately reached an answer - at least, scientifically speaking. Their research shows that dogs are smarter than cats! Some of you might find this answer surprising but don’t raise a revolt just yet. Cats are super intelligent even so. It’s just that they are likely not as smart as some dogs are. The secret is in “smartness” itself. Dogs are intelligent in their own way. They are generally more reliant on humans for problem-solving tasks, but they are adept at learning from observation and experience. They can also be trained to perform a wide range of tasks, from simple tricks to complex behaviors, such as guiding the visually impaired or detecting explosives. Cats, however, are natural hunters and possess excellent problem-solving skills. They are known for their agility, stealth, and ability to strategize when stalking their prey. In a domestic setting, cats demonstrate problem-solving abilities when navigating obstacles, finding hiding spots, and even manipulating objects to access food or toys. So, both of them have different positive traits and different types of intelligence. But it could be that dogs, with their ability to learn and obey commands, are just a tad bit smarter.

Is a Cat Tree Necessary for My Cat?

When you first bring home a new cat, it’s an exciting time – especially if you’re a first-time cat parent. However, amidst the excitement, there are many questions that may be holding you back from fully embracing the joy. Are you prepared to meet all your cat’s needs? Are there “must-have” items you have overlooked? The struggle is real! We have good news… Many of the items that are deemed “necessary” are actually optional. One such item is the traditional cat tree or cat scratcher. Do they offer benefits? Yes! Can they help to improve your cat’s mental and physical health? Yes! But is a cat tree necessary for your cat? No, it’s not. There are other ways you can meet your cat’s needs if your budget or space doesn’t allow for a large piece of cat furniture. Let’s dig into the truth about cat trees and your cat. What is the Point of Cat Trees? If you’re currently standing in your local pet store, looking over the wide assortment of cat furniture available, you may wonder – what exactly is the purpose of cat furniture? Is it just a fancy bed solution for your cat, or are there other considerations when these products are developed? It’s an honest question I often hear from first-time cat parents. After all, these large, elaborate structures often come with a hefty price tag. If they do nothing more than provide a place to sleep, wouldn’t a simple cat bed suffice? Cat furniture is designed to meet many of your cat’s instincts, including their need to scratch, hide, climb, and oversee their surroundings. Each type of cat furniture has its benefits to consider.

How Can I Prevent My Dog From Barking When They’re Home Alone?

Dogs are very affectionate beings, and can form incredible bonds with their owners – but this also means that they would love to be by their side at all times. Sometimes, however, this is just not possible. Their owners have to  work, go to the store, or finish chores out of home and they can’t always take their pets with them. And when you leave your pooch all by their lonesome, they often think it’s the end of the world – you’ve abandoned them for good, even when you’re away for like 25 minutes. This can result in anxiety, restlessness, and a lot of barking. Some dogs – in fact – just won’t stop barking or howling until you come back. How can you bring an end to this behavior, and prevent all the excess barking? And how can you let your pet know that leaving for a little bit is no big deal? Let’s find out. Battles with Barks: Why Dogs Bark When Alone and How to Stop ItExcessive barking when a dog is home alone can be a common issue for a lot of owners, and addressing it requires a combination of training, environmental management, and sometimes, the help of professionals. Above all, it requires patience. However, there are a number of factors that come into play when such situations occur. To make your dog calmer, quieter, and ready to accept your absence, you should take a closer look at the daily routine the two of you share.First, consider if you're providing enough physical and mental stimulation. Physical exercise is crucial for a dog's well-being. Keep in mind that a tired dog is generally a content and quieter dog. So, before you leave, make sure that they have ample exercise, fun, and outside time. If they “emptied their batteries”, they are more likely to remain calm and just snooze while you are out. Of course, to make sure you always fulfill these exercise requirements, you will have to establish a consistent daily routine. Just like humans, doggos too depend on the routine they can follow. This routine helps them feel secure and understand when to expect certain events like meals and walks. If they get used to a daily chain of events, they will expect you to leave and be okay with it.  Interactive toys that provide mental stimulation or dispense treats are also a great thing to utilize when battling anxiety or boredom-induced barking. They can help your dog stay occupied during your absence. As they get involved in playing with the toy, dogs will tire out, keep themselves busy, and not make such a big deal about your absence. With a toy, alone time can actually be enjoyable for a dog.

American Airlines Makes It Easier To Travel With Pets

They say to travel is to live, but deciding to leave a beloved pet at home can make you feel guilty - and bringing them along on an adventure can be tough on the bank account. No one truly wants to leave their four-legged best friend behind and figure out whether to hire a pet sitter or look for a boarding facility, but airlines don’t always make it easy for pet parents to travel with their fur babies.Finally, there’s some good news for pet parents and their four-legged companions! American Airlines has changed their pet policy, making it easier and more affordable for pet owners to fly with their fur babies.“On flights with American, you can bring one pet carrier as a carry-on if: You pay the carry-on pet fee; Your pet stays in the pet carrier and under the seat in front of you the entire flight,” shared American Airlines’ on their website. The company added that passengers can also bring “only one additional item on board with your pet” which can be a small personal item like a handbag or a purse, or a carry-on bag that meets the airline’s requirements and fits in the overhead bin compartment. The important thing to note is that you can only bring one with your pet carrier, not both.In the past, people who traveled with pets could only bring one small personal item abroad, which could fit under the seat. Anything bigger than that - for example, a larger carry-on bag that usually goes in the overhead bin - had to be checked, which was an additional $35. As an alternative, pet owners could transport their pets in the cargo hold if they wanted to take a bigger bag with them on the flight. Thanks to recent policy changes, people traveling with pets can now bring a pet aboard and choose whether they’ll travel with a carry-on bag or a personal item. At the same time, no changes to American Airlines' pet travel fee have been made. According to the company’s website, the fee remains fixed at $150 and applies per kennel, each way. For now, pet strollers must be checked at the ticket counter, and all checked bag fees apply. There are a few things to keep in mind before flying off into the sunset with your four-legged friend. All airlines are different. Every airline has its own policies for traveling with pets, so be sure to check the specific restrictions and fees on your flight before you book the tickets. Southwest, JetBlue, Delta, Alaska, and United are a few other airlines that allow pet travel, but each has its own travel requirements. Each airline specifies what pets can travel where. There are also limitations on the number of pets a passenger can bring abroad on different aircrafts. Only two pets in the same carrier can come aboard for American Airlines flights. Don’t forget that capacity is limited, meaning that checked pets are accepted on a first-come basis. Country-based restrictions also apply, and people traveling with pets should check and understand destination restrictions when traveling abroad.Lastly, whatever airline you decide to fly with, you have to find your pet an airline-compliant carrier. Without the right pet carrier, your fur baby won’t be able to fly on a plane with you. There is a lot to think about when traveling with a pet. But all will become worth it when you touch down and start making fun and exciting travel memories with your four-legged companion. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Are the Requirements for Flying with a Dog?

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

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?

Watch As Adorable Shelter Dogs Pick Their Own Christmas Toys

The holiday season is associated with traditions and festivities as we gather with family, put up festive decorations, and exchange holiday gifts. For pet parents, these traditions often carry over to spoiling our furry companions. But what about the thousands of pets sitting in shelters and rescues around the world, waiting for their forever home?One rescue based in Ireland has embraced a heartwarming tradition since 2017. Each year, Dogs Trust Ireland collects donations from the public. Hundreds of donated toys are placed in a room, and the pets are brought in one at a time to select their perfect holiday gift. They record the selection process, sharing the adorable footage on their YouTube channel for animal lovers worldwide to enjoy. “The reason we love making the video so much is that it’s so special to witness each dog’s individual reaction. Some burst in the door and scatter toys everywhere in an excited frenzy, and when they choose ‘the’ toy, they do excited zoomies,” explained Corina Fitzsimons, Public Relations and Communications Manager. “For dog lovers, it doesn’t get much better than seeing dogs doing Zoomies! Others prefer people and, after a sniff, will come over for cuddles. Then there are those who test every toy three or four times before picking, and many of the Collies who find a plain ball, throw it at our feet, and look at us as if to say, ‘Please throw human,’ which we are happy to oblige with.” This year, a total of 54 dogs were recorded as they carefully made their selection. While some dogs quickly found that perfect holiday toy, others took as long as 20 minutes to settle on a favorite. The organization promises that every one of the 264 dogs in their care will receive at least one toy during the holiday season, thanks to the generous donations they received.

The US National Park Service is Being Sued Over Stray Cats

The US National Park Service was sued by a non-profit organization due to its controversial plan to remove the famous stray cats of Puerto Rico, a historic district in the US territory. The lawsuit was filed by  Alley Cat Allies, a non-profit based in Maryland, and it comes four months after the radical announcement that left many in shock. The Federal agency revealed that it would contract an animal welfare organization to remove around 200 stray cats that live in Puerto Rico’s historic seaside fortress in Old San Juan. What the organization still hasn’t decided upon is whether the captured stray cats would be placed in foster homes, kept in shelters, adopted, or face a different fate. What is more, the federal agency did not reveal if a third-party organization has been hired yet. The National Park Service also added that it would hire a “removal agency” if the organization it contracted ultimately failed to remove the cats within a six-month period. The news caught many by surprise, as many locals – and tourists alike – loved the cats, and many considered them a delight and a local attraction. Alas, many considered the cats a nuisance too, as the National Park Service stated in a report in 2022 that the cat population in the city had grown out of proportions and that the smell of feces and urine in the area was becoming too strong.The announcement of their plan roused many animal rights activists, who say that six months is not enough to remove such a great number of cats. They fear that, as a result, many cats would be killed. Ultimately, the Alley Cat Allies filed its lawsuit in an effort to ensure the best possible outcome for the felines in question. They requested additional environmental statements from the National Park Service, and asked that “a judge find its actions allegedly violate acts including the National Environmental Protection Act.” It remains to be seen what will be the fate of these kitties – but one can only hope they won’t be harmed in the process. 

An AI App Helps Vets Diagnose Cats By Detecting Their Pain Levels

Every cat owner has wondered what their cat is thinking about - at least once in a while. You see your feline friend just standing there in the corner, its gaze fixed on something and its expression a true enigma. Sadly, it’s not that easy to read a cat’s emotions, so most of it just remains a mystery. Until now, that is. An Alberta-based company is developing an app that could change the way we see cats and their emotions. The innovative AI app is named Tably, and it aims to help vet clinics assess a cat’s pain more easily. Susan Groenveld, one of the developers of Tably, said that felines visit the vet far less than dogs. "And when you really unpack that, it's because they hide their pain. When a cat is in pain, they go and hide under the bed, versus a dog that'll present to the owner, like kids do," said Groeneveld, the founder at Sylvester.ai, the company developing the  Tably app. "I thought, wouldn't it be cool if everyday people that love their pets would know if their animal may be demonstrating pain."An earlier version of the app already showed remarkable success, with tens of thousands of downloads around the world. Susan Groeneveld said that those early stages of the app acquired around 54,000 downloads in just a week, showing that there is a big need for something like this. "This told us that people were really, really interested in it," she said. "But we really wanted to make sure that it was validated and veterinarians actually supported it because it was a really easy opportunity for us to become a novelty."As the work progressed, the app had been clinically tested by both veterinarians and pet owners in the United States, Canada, as well as in Europe. It is expected that the app will arrive in the digital market in the U.S., Singapore, and France in January. And for Canada, the app should see a release this fall. How does Tably work? The app uses special algorithms that apply standards and facial pain scores that vets previously created. With that, the vets can review the results and better assess the cat’s state. "We believe our technology will make it more accurate because there's less human bias in the subjectivity of the assessment," Groeneveld said.Positive reviews have been overwhelming so far, many of them coming from respected vets. Dr. Liz Ruelle, a vet at the Wild Rose Cat Clinic in Calgary, Alberta, is on the advisory board for the Tably app. Her involvement is very important for the developers, and Dr. Ruelle used the app in her practice. In fact, Dr. Ruelle states that she definitely plans on using the app in her future work and said for  Yahoo: “When a cat experiences pain, its eyes and eyelid positions change and they shift their ear positions. Like if we're in a good mood and we smile, we could think of how our cheeks are uplifted. We see the apples of our cheeks. If I had whiskers on my cheeks, then I would have that same uplifted, happy whiskers," she said. "But when I'm feeling sad, or headache, or painful, then those facial muscles start to sag down … instead of being upright and perky whiskers, they would be kind of dropping down the face."The best thing of all - the app won’t be exclusive to vets. Groeneveld and Ruell stated that a special lite version is planned, which will be aimed at pet owners to use at home. No exact dates have been provided, however. 

A New Survey Shows Both Pets and Owners Feel Separation Anxiety

When you really love spending time with your pet, and vice versa, it is only natural that you feel sad when you are apart. For pets, this is often manifested as the dreaded  separation anxiety, which can cause a lot of issues both for them and their owners alike. While you know you are coming back from work – unlike your pooch – so you won’t feel as stressed about the time you spend away from your pet, that doesn’t mean that it won’t affect your mental health. The latest  survey from PetMed Express only proves that separation has an effect both on dogs and their pawrents.The results of this survey were recently released after being conducted by OnePoll, and they show us that pet parents – unsurprisingly – while out away for work or chores, will deeply miss their four-legged friends back at home. And, interestingly, the poll shows that the strain only got worse after the owners had to return to their offices after the Covid pandemic and the time they spent in their homes. "This research confirms what we already know: People love their pets and prioritize being with them," said Matt Hulett, President and CEO of PetMeds. "What's eye-opening is how many pet parents feel their own sense of separation anxiety and loneliness when they're away from their pets – a concept that underscores the pivotal role our pets play in our lives."The results indicate that 4 in 10 pet parents said that they would rather accept a lower salary and work from home, just so they could be closer to their furry friends. It is a sad truth and an everyday occurrence that owners have to endure the commute and long work hours and yearn for the company of their pets all the while. PetMeds claims that pet parents begin to miss their pets just 37 minutes after being apart, on average. Furthermore, the results show that on average they find themselves thinking about their pets about 13 times per day. Here are some other stats included:44% expressed worry about their pets experiencing separation anxiety52% have felt an increase in their own separation anxiety in the past two years42% said they have observed a change in their pet's mental health and behavior in the past two years48% said their pets follow them to the door and look sad when they leave63% would like more support and guidance in understanding their pet's health and behavior70% would try pet telehealth servicesWhat about you? How do you cope with being separated from your cherished four-legged friend?

Why is My Cat Suddenly Acting Aggressive?

Cats are well-known for their independent and aloof nature. It’s part of their mysterious and majestic presence. But what do you do when your once docile companion suddenly becomes angry or aggressive?Understanding why your cat may have shown such an abrupt behavior change is important. Why? This could be a sign of much bigger trouble that demands your attention. There are many explanations for this type of change in demeanor, including physical pain or illness. The best solution to create harmony once again in your home is to get to the bottom of it!In this article, we will look at the most common reasons for a cat to suddenly exhibit aggression and what you should do to help your furry best friend.What Does Aggression Look Like in Cats?If you are a first-time cat owner or have never encountered an aggressive cat, you may wonder what aggression looks like. Our feline friends aren’t always as outwardly friendly and affectionate as their canine counterparts, but aggression refers to behaviors that go a step further. Rather than being aloof or disinterested, an aggressive cat outwardly expresses upset, anger, and frustration toward a trigger.Cat parents who seek help with an aggressive cat often refer to their cat biting or swatting, causing physical harm out of nowhere. But there are often other signs of trouble that are overlooked or unnoticed.Early signs of aggression include:Thrashing or fast twitching tailDirect stareDilated pupilsEars flattened back against the headStiff or crouched postureRaised hacklesHissing, growling, or yowlingWhen these warning signs are ignored, a cat may feel they have no choice but to react further to protect themselves from the perceived threat or trigger. It is at this moment that a cat will swat or bite. Learning to recognize the early warning signs will help you prevent the situation from escalating to the point that someone is hurt.How Do You Tell if a Cat is Playing or Being Aggressive?Some cats, especially young kittens, may play in a way that is similar to or mimics the signs of aggression. This can make it harder to identify if your cat is truly upset or simply playing around. Luckily, there are a few minor differences that can help you differentiate between the two.When a cat is being playful, they usually have their claws retracted. This means they may swat at you during play, but they aren’t scratching or causing harm with that action. The same can be said when they pounce on you – landing on you with their paws, nails retracted. If your cat is biting at your hand during play, they often have a threshold they won’t cross. They may bite hard enough that you feel some discomfort, but they aren’t trying to break the skin.There is a grey area that shouldn’t be overlooked between play and aggression, where a cat either didn’t learn where that line exists or fails to acknowledge it. This is known as play aggression, which we will touch on later.

Study Finds That Cats Have Hundreds of Facial Expressions

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

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