What Does “Human Grade” Mean When It Comes to Dog Food?

by Kate Barrington

Published: May 20th, 2016

what does human grade mean when it comes to dog food

New dog food formulas seem to make it onto store shelves every week. Be a food-savvy pet parent and learn the lingo when it comes to human grade ingredients.

When it comes to commercial pet foods, there is an array of options to choose from. Unfortunately, many dog owners do not realize that some of the dog foods they see on pet store shelves are made with low-quality ingredients and may not be formulated to meet your dog’s nutritional needs. As well, marketing claims on the packaging of dog food offer a range of claims, and one of the more recent ones has to be formulas boasting “Human Grade” ingredients. But what does that mean? Can humans eat it? Let’s take a closer look at what this really means.

Definition of “Human Grade” in Dog Food

In order for an ingredient to be classified as “human grade,” it must meet certain criteria. For one thing, it must be deemed human edible by the FDA and it must adhere to approximately 100 different manufacturing and quality control regulations. Feed grade ingredients, on the other hand, are deemed as such by the FDA and they are only subject to about 15 manufacturing and quality control regulations. Plus, feed grade ingredients can include ingredients that are rejected as unsafe or unfit for human consumption.

Choosing a High-Quality Dog Food

Now that you know a little bit more about the quality of ingredients that go into commercial pet foods you have a foundation to start from in choosing a high-quality diet for your dog. Though there are a number of important factors to consider when making your choice, the best place to start is with the ingredients list. Pet food labels list their ingredients in descending order by volume – this means that the items listed at the beginning of the list are present in the highest quantity. The quality of the ingredients at the top of the list will give you some important insight into the quality of the product as a whole.

When reviewing the ingredients list for a commercial dog food, you want to see at least one high-quality animal protein at the very beginning. Don’t let certain words like “meal” throw you off, either – meat meals from named sources are actually a valuable ingredient. Fresh chicken, for example, contains up to 80% water. So, once the product is cooked into kibble, most of the water will be cooked off and the actual volume of the ingredient will be much less. Chicken meal, on the other hand, has already been dehydrated so it contains up to 300% more protein by volume than fresh chicken.

In addition to high-quality animal proteins, you also want to see some healthy fats and digestible carbohydrates. Animal fats like chicken fat and salmon oil are highly preferable to plant-based fats like canola oil and flaxseed, though these ingredients are perfectly acceptable as long as some animal fats are included as well. Digestible carbohydrates include complex carbs like brown rice, oatmeal, and sweet potato. Avoid products made with corn, soy, or wheat ingredients as well as by-products, artificial flavors, dyes, and preservatives. If you follow these basic rules and do a little research to see whether the ingredients are human grade, you are sure to find a high-quality product for your dog.

Shopping for dog food can be a challenging and overwhelming experience simply because there are so many options out there. Take the time to examine ingredients lists and look for a product that is made with human grade ingredients rather than feed grade ingredients.

Kate Barrington

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

More by Kate Barrington

Are Squeaky Toys Safe for Dogs?

View Article

How To Use a Dog Food Calculator

Did you know that you can calculate the amount of calories your dog eats per meal? Regulate your dog’s caloric intake carefully with help from a dog food calculator.Like humans, dogs require a certain number of calories on a daily basis in order to support their healthy metabolism. Your dog’s body burns calories all day long just to support important biological processes like respiration, digestion, and growth – if your dog doesn’t get the calories he needs, he could experience serious nutritional deficiencies and stunted growth. To help you figure out how many calories your dog should be getting on a daily basis, consider using a dog food calculator.Calculating Your Dog’s Calorie NeedsAs you may already know, all living things require calories as a unit of energy to support life. In the same way that the human body has a minimum daily calorie requirement (called the basal metabolic rate, or MBR), your dog also has a minimum number of calories he needs to support his metabolism. This minimum number of calories for dogs is called the “Resting Energy Requirement” or RER. This number varies from one dog to another based on the age, sex, weight, and activity level. To give you an idea what your dog’s RER might look like, consider the following formula:RER = 70 x (dog’s body weight in kg)^0.75For example, if your dog weighs 22 pounds you would first convert that number to kilograms and get a body weight of 10kg. Next, you would multiply that number to the ¾ power and then multiply the total by 70. The RER of a 22-pound dog is about 400 calories per day. Remember, however, that this number is a minimum – it only accounts for the calories needed to support basic physiologic functions. To determine how many total calories your dog actually needs you must multiply his RER by an activity factor which varies depending on your dog’s age and activity level.Related: What Does “Human Grade” Mean When it Comes to Dog Food?How to Use a Dog Food CalculatorIf you want to calculate your dog’s total daily energy requirements, the easiest thing to do is to use an online dog food calculator. To use this kind of calculator, all you have to do is input your dog’s weight and it will calculate his Resting Energy Requirement. Some dog food calculators will also give you the option to calculate your dog’s total energy needs by multiplying his RER by a certain factor based on his age and activity level. Here is a breakdown of the factors affecting your dog’s RER and the number most dog food calculators use to determine total daily calorie needs:Altered (neutered or spayed) adult dog = RER x 1.6Intact adult dog = RER x 1.8Active, working dog = RER x 2.0 – 5.0Inactive/obese dog = RER x 1.2 – 1.4Puppy 0-4 months = RER x 3.0Puppy 4-12 months = RER x 2.0Related: How Many Times A Day Should I Feed My Dog?Some dog food calculators do more than just provide your dog’s total daily calorie needs. For example, the Dog Food Advisor dog food calculator allows you to input your dog’s ideal body weight and activity level in order to determine how much your dog should eat per day to achieve that ideal weight. Remember, different dog foods have different calorie content so you will still need to do some calculations of your own to determine exactly how much food your dog needs to meet his daily calorie needs. You will find the calorie content on the dog food label, typically included in the guaranteed analysis.All dogs require a careful balance of nutrients in order to sustain healthy biological function. What many dog owners do not realize, however, is that their dog’s calorie needs might differ greatly from those of another dog. If you really want to make sure that your dog is getting the calories he needs, consider using a dog food calculator to find out.Why Pay Attention to Your Dog’s Caloric Intake? Just like with people, the calories that your dog eats daily will have a direct impact on his weight and, therefore, his health and well-being. Of course, there are other factors that factor into this, but your dog’s diet is a major consideration. By understanding the calories that your dog will need to maintain a healthy weight, you can make smart choices in terms of what you are feeding your dog. This includes selecting the right dog food, determining how much he should be fed with each meal, and incorporating any treats and snacks. Dangers of Obesity in Dogs A surprisingly high number of dogs meet the threshold for being considered overweight (10-20% above their ideal weight) or obese (more than 20% above their ideal weight). It’s estimated that approximately 25-30% of dogs are obese, with that number rising to 40-45% after 5 years of age. One of the most common reasons for weight gain in dogs is simply eating too much. This often happens when dog owners fail to consider the treats or food scraps that they are offering their dog in between meals. Every little snack adds up! Not only does this lead to a chubby appearance, but obesity also carries many serious health complications for your dog. Healthy complications associated with obesity or excessive weight gain include an increased risk of: ·       Heart disease ·       Hypertension ·       Diabetes ·       Osteoarthritis ·       Urinary bladder stones ·       Several types of cancerIn addition to these problems, dogs that carry extra weight often experience a higher rate of joint pain. This is from the ongoing pressure of carrying around the weight on a daily basis. This is especially hard on dogs who are prone to conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia. If you notice that your dog’s body shape is starting to slip into the higher end of the body condition scoring chart, it’s time to reconsider how much you are feeding your dog as well as how physically active your dog is. Dangers of Being UnderweightWhile most dog owners are aware that there is a concern if their dog gains too much weight, what if your dog’s weight starts to drop? After you have calculated your dog’s daily calorie needs, take a close look at the recommended serving size of the food you have chosen. You should also look at the quality of your dog’s food to ensure that their nutritional needs are being met within that serving size. A drop in weight could be the result of not feeding your dog enough of your chosen food or that the food isn’t providing everything that he needs. If the food quality is in question, try switching to a higher-quality, WSAVA-compliant dog food. If you are providing your dog with the right amount of food and his weight is still low, you should contact your veterinarian. There may be an underlying health complication that is preventing his body from being able to absorb nutrients from the food that he is being given.

The Effect on the Environment of Feeding Cats and Dogs

Up to 30% of the adverse effect on the environment is caused by feeding our cats and dogs. That’s 64 million tons of carbon dioxide each year! Many of us are concerned about the environment. We spend time recycling our waste, and we may switch to an electric vehicle to reduce emissions. But how many of us give a second thought to the impact on the environment of feeding our pets? Probably not many! The problem is, feeding cats and dogs does actually contribute massively to climate change as recent research has uncovered. Feeding all the pets in America for a year has the same impact on the environment as driving 13.6 million cars! Related: Dry vs. Wet Dog Foods: Which Is The Right Choice? Part 1 If all the cats and dogs of America were to form their own country, despite being a great place for all of us pet lovers to go on vacation, this brave new world would rank fifth in the list of countries ordered by meat consumption levels. The production of all this pet food contributes to the use of pesticides and also to erosion. A massive amount of poop Picking up the poop and cleaning out litter trays isn’t the most fun part of pet ownership, unless you’re particularly weird. Our pets produce a whopping 5.1 million tons of poop every year. Interestingly, the problem is actually getting worse. In the past, most pet foods were made from leftover meats from the human meat trade. the parts of the animals that weren’t put into human food were made into pet food. However, these days, there is a growing trend for luxury and gourmet pet foods. These types of food are made from higher quality meat that could actually be made into food products for humans. Related: What Does “Human Grade” Mean When it Comes to Dog Food? So what can we do? A vegetarian diet is not healthy for cats and dogs. So this really isn’t an option. If you are worried that you are contributing to climate change through feeding your pets, then what can you do? You could balance it out by making some changes to your own life, to counteract the effect your pets are having on the environment. Perhaps you could eat less meat yourself? Or reduce your car journeys to lower your own carbon dioxide emissions. If your pet is overweight, you could cut down on their meat a little. You’ll be reducing the environmental impact of their diet and also ensuring they are fit and healthy too!

New Research Shows Dogs Can Be Generous

As if you needed another reason to be an animal lover, new research shows that dogs can be generous, especially when it comes to sharing with someone they know. Researchers Rachel Dale and Friederike Range from the Messerli Research Institute at Vetmeduni, Vienna, had found that canines are prone to food rewards with other dogs. In previous studies, they found dogs would deliver treats to a dog they were partnered with. The researchers decided to expand on that work by testing whether or not dogs would still show generosity and share with other dogs. And it turns out that they did, particularly when the dog was familiar – this proves that much like humans, dogs are more likely to be generous with their ‘friends and family,’ than with those unknown to them. Related: What Does “Human Grade” Mean When it Comes to Dog Food? In the newest study, dogs had to recognize objects (tokens) in order to deliver a treat to its ‘partner’ dog (the earlier study only required the dog to pull a rope in order to deliver treats to themselves or partner dogs). Researchers found the dogs delivered, choosing to not only reward themselves, but their partner dog. Taking it up to the next level, they made the task even more tricky to see if the difficulty level made a difference; as well, they added ‘stranger’ dogs to the mix to see whether a dog had a preference when choosing to complete a task and deliver a treat. They also set up different testing scenarios–one where the test dog could see its canine treat recipient; one where the test dog could not see the other dog but the dogs were together in the same enclosure; and one where the dogs were separated completely, and the test dog was simply observed to see whether he’d ‘deliver’ a treat, regardless of another dog being seen as a recipient, or a partner in delivery. What they found was that when the dogs could see each other, the test dog more often chose to deliver the treat to the other dog, though if the other dog was a stranger to them, they chose to do so less often. If they could not see the other dog, but had a dog present with them in the testing enclosure, they still chose to ‘reward’ the ‘other’ dog, leading researchers to believe they exhibited a behavior called social facilitation–being motivated to do something simply because one is in the presence of ‘social peers.’ Related: Happy Pet Thoughts Help Soothe Social Rejection When the dogs were completely alone, and the test dog could not see the receiving dog, nor had a partner with him, the number of behaviors required to ‘deliver the treat’ significantly went down. Researchers believe that the dogs did not see the purpose of doing the work if it was not benefitting a partner. (They had separate and easily accessible options for receiving treats themselves to ensure they maintained motivation through the study.) The researchers believe this is important for future studies, as they need to consider social facilitation when it comes to research with dogs. This study shows that they will more likely perform tasks differently for another creature, especially a known dog or human, and especially when the other creature is visible, and also confirms the belief that dogs, like humans and some other higher-order animals prefer to share with their friends and family.

What is Resource Guarding in Dogs?

It’s all my food! Mine! Dogs love their food – but sometimes, that love turns into a dangerous obsession. Here’s how to treat resource guarding in dogs. As a dog owner, one of your biggest and most important tasks is to train your dog. For some dogs, this task is easier said than done – especially if your dog has problems like resource guarding. Resource guarding is common, especially in puppies that come from large litters, and it is something you can deal with on your own at home. Here’s what resource guarding in dogs is and how to stop it. Understanding Resource Guarding in Dogs Does your dog growl at you if you try to touch him while he is eating? Does he become possessive about his favorite toy or a tasty bone? Does he snap at you or other dogs if someone gets near him when he is enjoying a treat or toy? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, your dog may have a problem with resource guarding. Resource guarding is a natural response for dogs because they have an innate need to protect their food and other resources from competitors. This response goes all the way back to wild wolves who would fight each other over food. Related: What is a Limited Ingredient Diet? Resource guarding can manifest in a variety of different ways, ranging from seemingly benign behaviors to all-out aggression. On the milder side, many dogs run away with a treat or toy if someone approaches them – they may also growl if someone approaches them while they are enjoying their food or a favorite toy. On the more extreme end of the behavioral scale, some dogs will actually bark or snap at anyone who approaches them. They may even go so far as to bite or chase the offender away. Tips for Dealing with the Problem As natural a behavior as resource guarding is, it can also be dangerous – especially if you have young children in the home who do not understand why they can’t approach the dog when he is eating. The last thing you want is for your dog to snap at or even bite your child. Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to cut back on resource guarding – there are also some steps you can implement early in your puppy’s life to prevent it from becoming a problem. Hand-feeding, for example, is a great way to prevent your puppy from developing resource guarding behavior – you can also speak to the dog while he is eating so he doesn’t feel threatened by your approach. Related: What Does “Human Grade” Mean When it Comes to Dog Food? If your puppy already exhibits resource guarding behavior, your approach needs to be a little bit different. The key to dealing with food guarding behavior is to desensitize your dog in a series of stages so he no longer feels threatened. To start, stand a few feet away from your dog as he is eating and periodically speak to him in a non-threatening manner then toss a treat into his bowl. For example, you could say something like “what have you got there,” repeating it every few seconds until he is done eating. When your dog remains calm throughout this process for 10 meals in a row you can move on to the next stage. In this stage, repeat the process but take a single step toward him as you speak then step back and toss the treat. Each day, step a little closer to your dog until he is relaxed for a full 10 meals with you standing within two feet of his bowl. Next, repeat the process while standing right next to the bowl – right after you drop the treat into it, turn and walk away. When your dog gets use to this, move on to keeping the treat in your hand, bending down to offer it to your dog while he is eating. After he takes the treat, turn and walk away then repeat until he finishes his meal. Next, actually touch your dog’s bowl when you bend down and offer a treat with the other hand at the same time. In the final stage, actually pick up your dog’s bowl to drop the treat in, then put it back. With these basic tips, you can effectively deal with your dog’s resource guarding behavior. The key is to be patient and do not rush your dog from one stage to the next – make sure he is completely comfortable with one thing before you move on.

The Shift Toward Human Foods in Our Pet’s Diet

Does your dog’s dinner look like your own? That’s because our pet’s food is becoming more like ours with every bite – just take a look at the ingredient label. When throwing together a salad for lunch I’ve been known to toss a forkful of my cats’ food into the mix for a little added protein. No, I haven’t resorted to chowing down on kibble croutons, but years ago I did stop feeding my feline crew, typical cat food – I switched them over to tinned tuna. It started one evening when, after returning home to a clamor of hungry kitties looking for their dinner, I observed them sniff, then walk away from the mounds of commercial grade wet food that I had just loaded onto their waiting dishes. They never went back, and while I was scraping it into the garbage (cue sound of gagging), I began to wonder what they sensed about this smelly, pink-tinged pulp, that made them think they’d rather starve. Because I have been a vegetarian for most of my life (no red meat or chicken), I felt a strange sympatico with my cat pack’s disdain for mystery meat and for a period of time, I tried making my own pet food (ever see a cat identify a grain of rice by texture and circulate it out the other side of his mouth while still eating?). But because it had an extraordinarily short shelf life, I seemed to be throwing out more than they were willing to eat. Related: 5 Safe and Tasty Human Foods for Dogs And in addition to it becoming expensive, I was worried they weren’t getting sufficient nutrition from the various on-line recipes that I was cooking up. That’s when tuna entered the picture. I had just opened a tin when I realized I had an engaged audience. A little sampling and a few purrs later, the solution was found. That was over 20 years ago, and today my cupboard is always stocked with water-packed, flaked tuna that is doled out between 4 cats and 2 dogs each morning. A healthy pinch is added to a top-grade kibble (to ensure nutritional needs are met) and I have pets that are actually excited about breakfast and don’t walk away from their bowls until they’re finished. Apparently, I’m not the only pet-parent that feels the quality of commercial-grade food just isn’t good enough for his or her best buddy. With consumers shifting towards a lifestyle that includes more organic and GMO-free foods, they’re also changing how they feed their furry companions. Which explains why pet food purchasing patterns are rapidly shifting to include kibbles that are free from fillers, artificial colors and preservatives. Related: Top 10 Spices and Herbs Your Dog Can Eat And with millennials waiting longer to have children, they’re able to direct their need to nurture (and a hefty portion of their paycheck) into the care and well-being of their four-legged kid. In fact, the Economist cites a jump in pet food spend from $18 billion in 2009 to over $30 billion by 2017 – a number that far outpaces the increase in pet ownership. But, while the “humanization” of our pets has made us willing to pay more for their upkeep, we aren’t buying into slick marketing and gimmicks. Just like our own food, we’re looking for real ingredients. In fact, we’re looking for the same ingredients we find in our own foods and this has resulted in a significant spike in pet foods that include superfoods such as cranberries, sweet potatoes, blueberries as well as fiber-rich carrots and beets. So much so that the holy grail of all things canine – the American Kennel Club – has recognized this desire to share our favorite foods by including a list of fruits and veggies suitable for Rover to nosh on such as apples, bananas, cucumber, broccoli and even pineapple. And there’s more. According to global analytics guru Nielsen, those probiotics being flogged by yogurt brands to improve our gut-health, have now become a common ingredient in many pet foods with a triple-digit growth in product sales in just the past two years. Related: What Does “Human Grade” Mean When It Comes to Dog Food? This demand to feed our pets the same quality ingredients we’re consuming ourselves has led the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) to introduce what they call “human grade” pet food. But before you pull out a spoon and settle in to share a meal with your pooch, know that this simply means that all ingredients were stored, handled, processed and transported in a manner consistent and compliant with the regulations used for human foods. In short, brands wanting to market a human-grade pet food must have produced the food in a plant or kitchen that has been licenced to do so. However, the bits and bobs that aren’t appealing for human consumption are still what goes into these pet foods. If you truly want to know what goes into your pet’s daily diet, why not try making it yourself. Recipes have improved leaps and bounds over what I was trying to produce 20 years ago. If you’re stuck for inspiration, just check out our meal and snack recipes.

Canine Nose Prints Help Reunite Lost Pets with Owners

Faster and more effective than microchips? Time will tell.

Staff Sergeant Reunites With His Former K-9 Colleague

A retired military dog named Blek, got reunited with his former colleague Staff Sergeant Thomas Watkins, who used to be his handler at a duty station. Blek, who was named after the old English term for “black” or “inky” had quite a reputation among the handlers. Trainers who worked with the canine described him as challenging and tough to manage. But everything changed when Blek met Watkins. In an interview, Watkins told Good Morning America about his experience meeting Blek for the first time.“That was the issue that they were having,” said Watkins. “And so my kettle master pulled me in his office and was like, ‘Hey, man, I know you’re a new handler. But I feel like you’re up to this challenge.’”As the master predicted, Watkins and Blek bonded immediately.“We just connected right off the bat,” Watkins told the Good Morning America. “We truly understood each other… Another handler was out there with me, and he was like man like, ‘I just never seen this dog be so affectionate towards someone.’”Since the day they met, their relationship has grown stronger, making them suitable to carry out missions as a team at the station. “It’s such a beautiful experience, especially when you get a dog that has issues…And then you connect with that dog, and you get that dog to where they need to be. It’s such an awesome and rewarding experience,” explained Watkins. “The rest of the two and a half years that I worked [with] him from deployment to secret service missions all over the world, we had no issues whatsoever,” he added. Unfortunately, the time Blek spent with his handle ended when Watkins got transferred to another station. Blek was left behind to work with other handlers who found the task challenging. According to Carlton Isaacson, a former military dog trainer, things weren’t looking good for Blek.That’s when Project K-9 Hero got interested in Blek’s case. According to their site, this non-profit organization wants to honor military working dogs and police K-9s in retirement. The organization’s purpose is to provide assistance with medical costs, adoption, rehabilitation, food, and end of duty services to provide the best quality of life and to give these four-legged heroes the retirement they deserve. Speaking highly of the non-profit, Isaacson said the project “was a game changer” adding, “They were able to provide him everything that he needed to be safe.”Thanks to Project K-9 Hero, Watkins was able to adopt his old four-legged friend.“I’m so thankful for those guys out there that they were able to take him and hold him until I got to a place where I can truly take care of him and allow him to just be a dog on his retirement,” said Watkins.In addition to allowing him to adopt Blek, Project K-9 Hero had another surprise for Watkins - the organization will cover all of Blek’s food and veterinary care costs for the entirety of the dog’s life. Talking about his feelings about this special reunion, Watkins said: “I am overwhelmed with happiness. That dog is dear to my heart and he made me the handler and trainer that I am today…It looks like [Blek] hasn’t skipped a beat. He’s happy. He looks healthy and I am just glad to be here right now.”“I’m so thankful for that dog, and that’s why I’m excited to actually bring him home with me to live out his life.”It’s heartwarming to see these two heroes reunited and ready to face new adventures together, as a team. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Senior Leaves $2.8 Million Estate to Pets, Not Kids

What do you need to consider when planning the future care of your pets?

Is Your Cat Itchy? Causes and Treatments for Itching in Cats

Itching, or pruritis, in cats has various causes, so it’s a symptom of multiple problems. Sure, a cat will have an itch they need to scratch every now and then, just like people do. But if you see your cat scratching more than usual, or they’re scratching, licking, or biting themselves so much that they’re losing fur and causing cuts and scabs on their skin, there may be an underlying issue that should be addressed.Whether your cat is scratching at one area or they’re itchy all over, don’t ignore this problem. Read on to learn about some of the causes of itchiness in cats, along with some of the things you can do to provide relief. Remember, it’s always best to consult a veterinarian about your cat’s symptoms so you can give your pet the right treatment.Reasons Why Your Cat Is ItchyHere are some of the conditions that can cause a cat to feel itchy:AllergiesA lot of things can cause an allergic reaction in cats that leads to itchy skin. For example, if your cat is allergic to an ingredient in their food, such as a particular protein, their allergy might manifest as itchiness. As another example, your cat might be allergic to something in the environment, such as dust in the house or pollen that blows in through a window. And some cats have contact allergies to products, from litter to plastic or fabric, that can cause a reaction. The goal is to find the allergen and remove it from your cat’s environment as best as possible. In the case of a food allergy, using food trials with the guidance of your vet can help you figure out what’s causing the reaction so you can start giving your cat food that’s appropriate for them. ParasitesBites from insects and parasites can cause your cat to feel itchy. Fleas and mites are a couple examples. And, yes, indoor cats can get fleas, as they could be brought in from outside and find their way to your feline.When it comes to mites, such as ear mites or mange, your veterinarian can prescribe treatments after performing some tests for an accurate diagnosis.For flea allergy dermatitis caused by flea bites, it’s a matter of eliminating the flea infestation and preventing future infestations. You can use over-the-counter products, such as Frontline Plus for Cats, which is a topical treatment you apply between your cat’s shoulders (where they won’t be able to lick it off). It kills flea eggs, flea larvae, and adult fleas, as well as ticks and chewing lice, and each dose works for a month. But you also need to thoroughly clean your home and your pet’s things to be sure you eliminate fleas in the environment.

Rising Pet Care Costs Lead to More Surrenders

Thanks to a rising cost of living, more people are surrendering their pets to animal shelters or abandoning them on the street. According to Shelter Animals Count, the end of 2023 saw a whopping 250,000 more pets in shelters compared to a year prior. They’ve even seen a rise in the number of purebred dogs and puppies who entered shelters, and there aren’t enough animals being adopted.  Overcrowded Shelters Around the U.S.The stats say it all, and this heartbreaking problem is found all over the United States. For example, compared to 2022, Animal Care Centers of NYC saw the number of abandoned dogs they took in go up 41%, and they’d run out of space as of the start of 2024. Tragically, the shelter also euthanized a higher number of dogs (2% more) in 2023 compared to the previous year.     Animal shelters in Kentucky, such as Franklin County Humane Society, are also struggling to keep up as they deal with more surrenders and strays. The state’s shelters are full, and they’re having a hard time because so many people are giving up their pets as a result of rising costs.The Nevada Humane Society is yet another example of a shelter that has seen a rise in pet surrenders because people are finding it harder to afford their animals or they’re finding it difficult to locate housing that will let them keep their pets. In 2023, the shelter saw a 65% increase in the number of dogs that were surrendered to them.Financial Hardship and Housing Issues Are Driving ForcesWhy are so many people giving up their pets? Financial hardship and difficulty finding places to live that are affordable and accept pets are a couple of the big reasons. Many people struggle with the rising cost of living not only for themselves but also for their pets, as everything from pet food and supplies to veterinary care has gotten more expensive.  Shelters across the United States are doing what they can to encourage people to adopt and prevent people from surrendering their pets. For example, Animal Care Centers of NYC offered pet parents help in the form of training assistance, free food, and temporary boarding, and those efforts worked to avoid nearly 3,000 surrenders in 2023.  There Are Ways You Can HelpYou can do your part to support animal shelters and pet parents that are struggling. In addition to monetary donations, you can donate pet food. Or, you can offer to foster one or more animals who are currently waiting for their forever homes. And you can adopt a pet in need of a home—you might even find shelters in your area that have discounted adoption fees as a means to help people afford their new best friend.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why Does My Cat Have a Bald Spot?

Discovering a bald spot or missing fur on your cat can be both perplexing and concerning for any cat parent. A change in your cat’s coat could be nothing, but it could also be a red flag of behavioral issues or medical problems. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step to addressing the problem.In this post, we explore the mystery of cat alopecia, including possible explanations for cat hair loss, what you should do if you notice your cat has a bald spot, and how to prevent this problem from happening.Let’s get started…6 Reasons Your Cat May Have a Bald SpotThe first step to addressing your cat’s hair loss is to identify why it occurred. This will mean paying careful attention to other signs and symptoms, both physical and behavioral. Here are a few of the most common causes of significant hair loss in cats:Allergies and IrritationDoes your cat suffer from food allergies or environmental allergies? While most allergies won’t directly cause your cat’s hair to fall out, they trigger dry, itchy skin. As your cat scratches the area, trying to soothe the itch, they may damage the skin or hair follicles.Identifying the allergens can be difficult. You may wish to do allergy testing or try an elimination diet. But the good news is that once you know the trigger, eliminating it will solve the problem.OvergroomingCats are well-known for their careful attention to their grooming needs, licking themselves to keep their fur clean and shiny. However, there are some behavioral situations when a cat may start grooming excessively, causing damage to their coat or their skin, resulting in bald patches.The most common causes of overgrooming are stress and anxiety. Take a moment to reconsider your household and any recent changes that may have occurred. Did you move? Are you renovating your home? Did you add a new pet or family member to the household?Another potential behavioral explanation for overgrooming is obsessive-compulsive disorder. This may have started as stress or anxiety, or it may be genetic. OCD in cats could result from neurological conditions or other medical problems.

Scientists Uncover Secrets of Extinct "Wooly Dog" Breed

Throughout history, dogs have played several key roles in the lives of people globally. They have hunted, worked, and provided for us, forever weaving them into the fabric of human existence. We often use this knowledge to better understand our modern dogs by reflecting on their original purpose as a breed. Unfortunately, not every breed continues to thrive among us today.The Coast Salish wooly dog was a unique breed, kept by the First Nations people throughout the Pacific Northwest, including Vancouver Island, for its fleece-like coat. A new study reveals insights into the history of the now-extinct breed.Unlike most animals at that time in history, the dog was kept in pens and longhouses. This was done to prevent the dogs from mixing with village and hunting dogs, preserving the breed and the fleece it provided.“They were sheared like sheep, and the wool was woven into blankets,” recounted Eliot White-Hill of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. “Blankets were like currency in our economy prior to contact and some of the most important things you could own and give away as gifts.”The dogs were fed a diet of fish and elk and were seen as beloved family members.“It’s not just a dog – it’s a relative. It has enormous spiritual power, conveyed in its wool,” explained Michael Pavel, an elder of the Skokomish-Twana tribe and one of the study's authors. “Imagine being able to receive the gift of wool fiber, being able to learn to weave that into yarn, into an entity, or a blanket or robe that you could wrap yourself in the coldest of winter and feel the warmth of those prayers. That’s how we look at it, and we can now enjoy a scientific view, as well.”Unfortunately, the breed did not survive colonization. It’s not clear exactly what caused the demise of the Coast Salish wooly dog – the introduction of European dog breeds, rules enforced on First Nations people during assimilation and displacement, or smallpox epidemics being a few of the hypothesized factors.But thanks to the preserved pelt of a wooly dog named Mutton, who died in 1859, researchers can now learn a little more about the unique DNA of the dog, its lineage, and insight into the breeding practices of local Indigenous communities.Researchers compared DNA from Mutton’s pelt to that of a separate non-wooly village dog that lived and died in the same region at approximately the same time.While the information gathered from the study did not offer any conclusive answers about the disappearance of the breed, it did hypothesize that the Indian Act of 1876 played a critical role as it would have directly impacted the ability of Indigenous women to pass on valuable knowledge about caring for the dogs and weaving necessary to its survival.On a positive note, the study did support historical facts shared by First Nations people in that area – a valuable piece of the puzzle as many work to reclaim the traditions of their ancestors.“It brought a large group of people together that reaffirmed for us the history we know,” stated Violet Elliott, also of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. “It was a gift of collaboration with other nations.”

Neutering Rottweilers May Shorten Their Lifespan, Study Finds

Increased lifespan is often cited as one of the main benefits of neutering a dog. But is that true? A recently published study found neutered Rottweilers may have a shorter lifespan than their intact counterparts. Neutering is a commonly performed surgical procedure that prevents unwanted puppies, controls the pet population, and eliminates certain health problems in dogs. It offers significant health benefits, such as reduced risk of pyometra and mammary tumors in female dogs. However, in recent years, concerns have been raised about the possible side effects of neutering. A recent study aimed to shed some light on this topic by comparing the lifespans of neutered and intact male and female Rottweilers. Scientists analyzed available clinical records of 3,085 intact and 4,100 neutered Rottweilers from July 1994 to June 2021. These records were collected by VetCompass Australia. The analysis provided surprising results. Scientists discovered that Rottweilers that were neutered before one year of age had a shortened lifespan of one-and-a-half years in males and one year in females when compared to intact Rottweilers. The analysis showed similar results for dogs neutered before the age of four-and-a-half years. “Most other studies have found that neutering dogs increases their longevity but ours is the first that went against that,” said Dr. Caroline Joone, the study’s lead author and senior lecturer at James Cook University in theriogeneology. “It was a bit of a shock when that wasn’t what we found,” Dr. Joone added. “We were fortunate with the data we had because we could determine when a dog was desexed and when they died.” Despite the study’s findings Dr. Joone strongly encourages owners to neuter their four-legged companions to prevent unwanted litters, as well as, serious health issues. “There are serious consequences for not neutering a dog, such as the risk of life-threatening uterus infection known as pyometra, mammary tumors, and unwanted puppies,” Dr. Joone explained. At this time, it’s unclear whether there is an ideal age to neuter a Rottweiler that doesn’t influence their lifespan. The study also highlighted several factors that could affect the lifespan of any dog, including nutrition, exercise, health care, genetic predispositions, and environmental factors. These factors may be reduced by screening for genetic health conditions. Selecting healthy breeding pairs may also help reduce the occurrence of hereditary disorders and support longevity. Let’s not forget that overweight dogs have a shorter life span than lean dogs. “There’s a strong suspicion that the reduced lifespan is more to do with weight issues than the neutering itself, so I would encourage owners to go ahead and neuter their dog but make sure you keep it at a good, healthy weight.”Dr. Joone explained that a balanced diet and regular exercise are essential for maintaining a healthy weight in neutered dogs.Do these findings apply to all neutered dogs or just Rottweilers? Scientists aren’t sure yet but plan to extend their research to other popular breeds, such as golden retrievers and greyhounds, to determine whether these results are widely applicable. The role of weight gain post-neutering and other underlying causes of reduced lifespan in neutered dogs are worth investigating further. Additionally, this study also showed that the time of neutering a dog may affect its lifespan. Dogs are often neutered between six months and one year of age, but mounting evidence has suggested that this may not be the best time to neuter a dog. Based on this analysis, neutering Rottweilers early, especially before the age of one, reduces lifespan, highlighting the importance of determining the optimal neutering age. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Are Collagen Chews Good for Dogs?

Are you searching for a tasty treat to keep your pup occupied? Have you heard the warnings made by experts about the potential dangers of rawhide chews and are struggling to find a healthy alternative for your dog? A newer type of dog chew is gaining popularity in the pet world, beloved both by pets and their parents alike. Let’s discuss the benefits of collagen chews and why this would be a great option for your dog. What Are Collagen Chews? Before we get into the benefits, we’ll start with the basics. What exactly is a collagen chew? Like rawhide, a collagen chew is a dried animal product. However, it is made from the inner layer of a cow's skin instead of the hide. This may seem like a minor difference, but it makes the product much easier to digest, making it safer for pet parents concerned about the risk of obstructions associated with rawhide. Collagen chew products are available in various forms, including flat chews, sticks, traditional bone shapes, and rings. Each variation of the chew ranges in size, thickness, and, therefore, chew difficulty level. Do Vets Recommend Collagen Sticks? Yes! Many veterinarians recommend collagen chews as a healthy alternative to rawhide. This healthy and natural chew option offers many health benefits, including joint issues and dry skin. Most collagen chews are made from all-natural ingredients and are free from fillers, artificial colors, and artificial flavors, making them a healthy replacement for your dog’s favorite rawhide bones.Is Collagen Better Than Rawhide? While both collagen chews and rawhides are long-lasting chew options, collagen chews address many of the health concerns related to rawhide. If your dog loves rawhide chews, this is a great alternative. Like rawhides, collagen chews are long-lasting. However, if your dog swallows a portion of the chew, its digestibility makes it less likely that you will find yourself at an emergency vet paying for surgery to remove an obstruction.

Will SWELCE Replace Rover? Time Will Tell

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce prove influential when its time to name that new pet.

Do You Know Your Pet's Love Language?

Relationship therapists have long used the concept of “Love Languages” to encourage better communication among couples. It defines how we express and receive love and sorts these behaviors into five categories – acts of service, physical touch, words of affirmation, gift-giving, and quality time. But did you ever stop to consider how your pet may fit into this framework? The folks at Nulo Pet Food did!Recently, the brand partnered with OnePoll to survey 2,000 cat and dog parents to better understand the secret to your pet’s heart.The survey found that quality time is the most popular love language among cats and dogs (27%). This refers to showing affection by giving your pet your undivided attention, with this increase in attention leaving our pets feeling loved and cared for. For 62% of respondents, this meant allowing their pet to sleep in their bed each night, while 40% reported that they would include their pet in their daily plans whenever possible.Of course, food still scored high in offering a path to a pet’s heart despite not technically being part of the original five love languages.53% of pet parents said they showed love by providing their pets with high-quality meals, which could technically fall under both acts of service and gift-giving. Dedicated to their pets' overall well-being, 47% answered that they showed love by prioritizing their pet’s health and nutrition over all else, and 32% focused on adding variety to their diet.“With 69% of respondents willing to put their pet’s dietary needs before their own, the data clearly shows just how important a role pets plan in their people’s lives,” explained Heather Acuff, Ph.D., Nulo’s Director of Research & Development. “Not only are pet parents speaking their pet’s love language, they’re going above and beyond to provide optimum care and nutrition to ensure the healthiest and happiest lives for their pets.”What inspires us to prioritize our pets so highly in our lives? These furry family members hold an important role in our lives, with 47% of pet owners believing their pet views them as a best friend and 42% stating that their pet sees them in the same way.This data gives us an insight into the dedication that pet parents show in providing quality nutrition to their dogs and cats. When asked why they feed their current diet, 50% said they strongly believed their pet enjoyed the food, 35% chose the diet for its high-quality ingredients, and 29% decided on a diet based on their budget.How important is variety in our pets’ diets? Only 48% of those surveyed believed they could survive eating the same meal every day for three months. It highlights the importance of products like food toppers that allow us to provide variation and make mealtime interesting while still prioritizing feeding a well-balanced diet. This includes commercial food toppers and pet-friendly human foods like pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, and more.Ultimately, the data reveals that food is one of the most significant ways we express our love and affection to our pets – possibly even making it the sixth love language for pets and pet parents!

The Unseen Threat: Dangers of Secondhand Smoke for Your Pet

Most people are well aware of the dangers of smoking. They understand what smoking does to their bodies and know the potential health risks of lighting up a cigarette. But did you know that exposure to secondhand smoke may have serious health consequences for your pets?It’s no secret that smoking is bad for people. In the United States, between 80% to 90% of lung cancer deaths are linked to cigarette smoking. Secondhand smoking is also linked with an increased risk of other forms of cancer, such as breast and colorectal cancer, heart and respiratory disease.Studies have shown that more than 50% of bladder cancer cases in humans are caused by cigarette smoking. A recent study involving Scottish terriers found a link between cigarette smoke exposure and bladder cancer. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in dogs, and many pooches are diagnosed with some form of this terrible disease. Although many factors may predispose a pet to cancer, research shows that passive smoking is a main danger.Scientists from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Purdue University discovered that Scottish terriers who were exposed to secondhand smoke at home were six times more likely to develop bladder cancer than those who were not routinely exposed to smoke.Passive smoking is also linked with nasal cancer in dogs. This type of cancer is often diagnosed in long-nosed breeds such as collies, greyhounds, and borzois. The increased surface area in their nasal canals traps inhaled particles, allowing carcinogens from tobacco smoke to accumulate in the nasal mucus. As a result, long-nosed dogs are at a greater risk of developing tumors in their snouts. On the other hand, brachycephalic or short-nosed dog breeds, such as pugs and French bulldogs, are more likely to develop lung cancer. Their short noses aren’t as effective at trapping inhaled particles and allow more carcinogens to reach the lungs.Being exposed to smoke increases the risk that your dog will develop cancer, but that’s not all. Pooches that live with smokers are more likely to develop asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory problems.Dogs aren’t the only pets to suffer the consequences of inhaling secondhand smoke on a daily basis. Cats, birds, and small critters like guinea pigs and rabbits are also at risk.Cats that live with smokers are more likely to develop asthma and lung cancer. Felines that inhale secondhand smoke regularly also have a higher incidence of malignant lymphoma.  Studies have found higher nicotine concentrations in the hair of cats living with smokers than those living in smoke-free homes. The same is true for dogs living with smokers, no matter whether their owners smoked inside or outside. Cats are famous for being fastidious groomers, but licking the fur puts them at risk of ingesting even more toxic particles from secondhand smoke than simply inhaling them. Felines that groom excessively can develop oral tumors from licking toxic particles off their fur.Secondhand smoke alone isn't responsible for all health problems seen in cats and dogs. Diet, genetics, lifestyle, and exposure to other potentially toxic substances in the environment combined affect the pet’s overall health.Owners concerned with the well-being of their four-legged companions should be more aware of the air quality in their homes and make necessary lifestyle changes.Choosing to smoke outside can minimize some risks associated with exposure to secondhand smoke. Improving ventilation, opening the windows, and using air filters can help too. However, it’s important to note that even a low exposure to secondhand smoke can be harmful to your four-legged companion.Quitting smoking is hard, but knowing how secondhand smoke affects your pet’s health may motivate you to put down that cigarette once and for all!Join the PetGuiJoin the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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?

Top stories

What Does “Human Grade” Mean When It Comes to Dog Food?

Are Squeaky Toys Safe for Dogs?

Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?

Top stories

What Does “Human Grade” Mean When It Comes to Dog Food?

Related articles