Safety Tips For Running With a Dog at Night

by Amy Tokic

Published: February 7th, 2013

safety tips for running with a dog at night

There’s No Reason Why You Can’t Stay Safe When Running With A Dog At Night

There are a lot of good reasons why people like running with a dog at night. There’s less traffic (both automotive and pedestrian), it’s a lot cooler (especially in the summer) and it’s a great way for you and your pooch to blow off some steam at the end of the day. But night time runs carry with it its own safety concerns, so we’ve put together some tips for running with a dog at night.

There are a lot of good reasons why people like running with a dog at night.

If you’re planning on running with a dog at night, there are precautions you’ll need to take. Be sure to wear clothing that can be seen in the dark, and attach illuminated strips to your dog’s collar. There are plenty of dog accessories available that’s made for running at night, like reflective collars, leashes and vests.
Stick to routes you know well, as you’ll be less likely to bump into objects concealed by the darkness and your family will know where you are if you happen to be running late (pun intended).
Be aware of everything around you. Just because you see that car coming, it doesn’t mean the driver can see you. Keep your eyes peeled at intersections, stop signs and driveways. As well, your head up so you can see obstacles that are coming your way, whether they be cracks in the sidewalk, uneven ground or other people and animals.
Always run against traffic. As well, it may help to wear a wide-brimmed hat (like a ball cap) to protect your eyes from oncoming lights. You should keep your dog on a shorter leash, but make sure it’s not short enough for you to trip over. Leave the extendable leash at home, because with too much of a lead, your dog may take off into traffic.
No music. At all. Not only does it distract you from hidden dangers and traffic, it’s rude to your jogging buddy. Catch up with your pooch, ask him how his day was and fill him in on what’s going on in your life.

Running with a dog at night is a great way to finish of your day and bond with your pooch. Do you take your dog out for a nightly jog? What do you do to stay safe? Share your tips with readers in the comments section below.

Amy Tokic

Amy Tokic, Editor of PetGuide.com, is a passionate animal lover and proud pet parent of Oscar, a Shih Tzu/Chihuahua cross, and Zed, a Japanese Chin. Her love of animals began in kindergarten, when she brought her stuffed dog Snoopy into class with her every day. Now, she writes about her adventures in pet ownership and tirelessly researches products, news and health related issues she can share with other animal enthusiasts. In her free time, Amy loves perusing used book and record stores, obsessing over the latest pet products available and chasing squirrels with wild abandon (a habit attributed to spending too much time with her pooches).

More by Amy Tokic

Give Your Cat a Purr-fect Treat

View Article

4 Springtime Fresh Safety Tips For Dogs

Helpful spring safety tips for dogs and pet parents What is that we finally see? Could it be? Yes, it is! A patch of grass! The snow is melting, the sun is shining, spring is here! We are so happy to see winter go so we can spend more time with our dogs outside. But before you put away those heavy winter jackets and woolly hats and head outdoors, we’re got a few spring safety tips to pass along. Dog Poop: This is a big pet peeve of mine. People think that just because it’s cold, they don’t have to pick up their dog’s poop. They believe that since it’s a poopsicle, it’s not going to hurt anyone. I think that’s wrong on a few different levels. 1. Poop is gross, fresh or frozen; 2. It’s even grosser when it unfreezes three months later and you can’t clean it up. Now, this poopy mess becomes part of the landscape and people and dogs walk through it (most likely, dogs). It comes it your home, gets tracked all over the floors and furniture and your dog licks it off his paws. This old poop is full of parasites and bacteria that have been festering in it for months, some of which include giardia, coccidian, roundworm, and tapeworm. These nasty bugs can make your dog pretty sick and are easy to pass along to other animals. Keep a towel, cloth or cleaning products (like the PawPlunger or Soggy Doggy Super Shammy) at the door to wipe off the muck and possible poop off your dog’s paws before he brings it into the house. It’s a couple of extra minutes that won’t put your dog through the anguish of a painful illness and you through the anguish of a painful vet bill. Standing Water: Everything is melting and there sure is a lot of water. On long walks, your dog is going to find it tempting to lap it up. But those puddles can be filled with harmful bacteria (such as giardia). This can cause upset stomach or diarrhea. To make sure that your dog resists the urge to drink this water, bring your own bottled water from home, along with a portable water dish. Broken Bottles/Garbage: With spring comes spring cleaning. Everyone is cleaning out their closets, getting rid of the old to make way for the new. And they’re not always careful when they’re throwing out their garbage. Garbage bags break, sharp objects get loose and make their way out onto lawns where our dogs are sniffing around. A piece of broken glass can easily become embedded in the paw. As well, it seem like during the winter, quite a few people seem to have forgotten that garbage cans exist and have just thrown cans and bottles wherever it was convenient. The snow has melted, reveling an eyesore of a mess, which also has the potential of being a landmine to tender paws. If your dog happens to step on something sharp and cuts himself, get him home as soon as possible so you can clean out the wound. It needs to be sanitized and possibly dressed. If the wound is deep, you’ll need to take him to the vet for stitches and antibiotics. Fleas and Ticks: Oh, those nasty pests! As soon as the temperature starts to go up, these little buggers come out of hiding and hop onto our dogs for a free meal. It’s time to start thinking of flea and tick prevention. Whatever you decide to do – veterinarian-prescribed medication, holistic treatment, or over-the-counter products – you need to start applying them now. Flea and ticks are active in North America anywhere from April to November, which are also high-risk months for Lyme Disease. To ensure your dog is protected, talk to your vet. Do you have any spring safety tips to add to this list? If you do, please add them in the comment section below. We want to hear from all of the pet parents out there!

7 Sparkling Safety Tips For A Dog-Proof Christmas Tree

Not all trees are for dogs – make sure you follow these safety tips to keep your dog off your Christmas tree this holiday season Ah… the allure of the Christmas tree: its intoxicating yuletide smell, the peaceful glow of the lights, gleaming ornaments that tell a story of holidays past. Together, it creates an almost Zen-like relaxation. Unless you have pets – to them, it’s an irresistible, shiny toy (and indoor bathroom). Cats usually get a bad rap when you here about Christmas tree horror stories. But don’t let that wagging tail and puppy-dog eyes fool you. Dogs, especially puppies, can often play a nefarious part when it comes to destroying your irreplaceable, family-heirloom angel ornament. Related: I’m Afraid My Dog Will Ruin Christmas To help you prepare for a safe holiday season (and keep your Christmas tree upright and in one piece), here are a few tips to keep in mind before getting your Tannenbaum on: Timber! Get real – the huge Douglas Fir you just have to have won’t stand on it own in that flimsy, tiny plastic base. It’s going to go over with just one longing look from your dog. And once your pooch learns that the tree can fall, he will want to do it again and again – like a game of fetch, only with a brightly colored stick. To prevent a Grinch-like mess, set up your tree in a weighted and size-appropriate base. If you’re not happy with the appearance of your dog-friendly tree base, consider creating a simple present-themed cover that can be placed on it. All you have to do is take a box large enough to cover your tree stand and cut it along the center so that it’s in two halves, one for the front and one for the back. In the top of the box, cut a semi-circle to allow the boxes to fit snuggly around the tree trunk. Wrap your boxes in your wrapping paper of choice and place them around the stand. You can easily move the boxes when it comes time to watering your tree. To your guests, however, it’ll look like there’s nothing under there but festive wrapped presents. Related: Top 10 Ugly Christmas Sweaters For Dogs Speaking of Watering the Tree… Don’t Drink the Water It’s not only an homage to the Dave Matthews Band, but also a serious concern. Some dogs see the water in the tree base as an evergreen-flavored thirst quencher. But did you know that it could contain fertilizers, bacteria and sometimes Aspirin (from the tree), all dangerous and poisonous for your dog. Here’s a tip – dogs and cats hate the texture of tin foil. Cover the base tree base with it to keep pets at a safe distance.If you’d rather be safe than sorry, substitute your natural tree for an artificial one. This will offer some peace of mind since it doesn’t need any water. The tree box idea above may be enough to keep your dogs out of this tempting cocktail, but there’s always that one dog that’s far too stubborn for his or her own good. If that’s your pup, it likely won’t take long for him to realize that they can simply nose that box out of the way. Needles Aren’t Vegetables Needles may look and smell tasty to a dog, but they’re not part of his balanced breakfast. Those prickly needles aren’t digestable and can lead to vomiting. Be sure to sweep and vacuum the area on a daily basis to avoid this inedible issue. In addition to an upset stomach, the needles can scratch, puncture, or irritate your dog’s throat or the lining of his stomach. This may not be a life-or-death situation, but it can cause a lot of unnecessary discomfort that you will want to avoid this holiday season. Shocking News Blinking lights on a Christmas tree are a joyful necessity to us… but not so much for dogs. If your dog thinks that the light cord is a chew toy, he may be in for a shocking surprise. It could lead to mouth burns, fires or even electrocution. Be sure to leave the bottom of the tree light-free or securely attach them to the bottom – both tricks make it hard for your dog to get at them. In more extreme situations, chewing an electrical cord can prove fatal to your dog. It’s not a risk that you want to play around with. Especially during the holiday season! Try tucking any electrical cords powering your tree away where your dog can’t reach them. One easy solution is to hang your lights in a way that the cord exits the back of the tree a little further up off the ground to eliminate the temptation of a cord laying there for him to gnaw on. Tinseltown The tree looks absolutely beautiful draped with silver tinsel. But if your dog swallows it, it can get stuck in his intestines. These silver threads sometimes come out when your dog goes poop and you’ll gently have to pull it out, but sometimes it can get wrapped around his intestines. Then it becomes an expensive present you get to unwrap at your veterinarian’s office. Skip the tinsel and stick to ornaments. Fancy Ornaments You love and cherish them. You can’t wait to display them on your tree for everyone to admire. Put puppies doesn’t get that they’re not toys. Keep them on hold for a few years until your puppy is older and understands that ornaments aren’t to play with. Until then, get plastic or wood ones. As your dog gets older, you can hang your precious ornaments higher up on the tree where they can’t be reached. However, this approach may not be a good solution when he’s still a puppy. High energy pups are often running around and playing with no regard for their surroundings causing them to pump into walls, doors, and furniture. If your dog bumps into the bottom of your tree and shakes your precious ornament loose, the height is only going to increase the chances that it won’t survive the fall. Gift Unwrapping If you want your gifts to stay intact, I suggest hiding them until Santa comes on Christmas morning. Some dogs can’t resist the lure of brightly wrapped packages and gift bags. Unless it’s the ugly Christmas sweater that your Grandma knitted for you – feel free to let your pooch use that present as a chew toy. In addition to the hassle of having to rewrap your gifts, your gift wrap may pose a health risk to your dog. We often wrap our presents with colorful ribbons to give them that extra flair. However, like tinsel, ribbon can get tangled up in your dog’s intestines. This may cause the intestines to be bunched up similar to the way that the waist of your sweatpants do when the drawstring is tugged. It can also cut into the intestines causing internal damage. If you believe that your dog may have ingested a string or ribbon, contact your veterinarian asap to discuss your options. The sooner this risk is addressed, the better for your pup. This may sound a bit of holiday buzz kill, but relax – this too shall pass. Puppies grow up and dogs can be trained. At some point, you’ll be able to show off your wonderful ornaments, put plenty of gifts back under the tree and enjoy the tree in all its splendor. Even with all these tips and tricks, you’ll still need to keep an eye out for tree trouble. If you don’t trust your dog or spend a lot of time out of the house, you may want to consider setting up the tree in a closed room of placing a baby gate at the room’s entrance. Do you have any other Christmas tree safety tips to share? Please leave them in the comment section below.

Paw Myths: Safety Tips For Dog Paws

Hand’s on tips for keeping dog paws safe and healthy As humans, our hands are some of the most important tools we own – we use them to eat, to perform essential tasks, and to communicate. For your dog, his paws are just as important so you should make an effort to take good care of them. Unfortunately, there are a number of myths out there regarding dog paws. In this article you will learn the truth about how to keep your dog’s paws safe and healthy. Myth 1: Your Dog’s Pads Protect Him from Winter Weather While it is true that your dog’s paws are protected by thick padding, that doesn’t make them immune to winter weather and other winter-related conditions. The padding on dog paws contain more fatty tissue than other parts of the body which means they do not freeze as quickly, but they are still sensitive to cold and at-risk for being scraped or cut by ice. During the winter, it is common for balls of snow to collect between the toes, causing irritation and even pain for your dog. If you often take your dog outside during the winter, consider investing in some protective booties. Related: Pawz Dog Boots Review Myth 2: Your Dog’s Paws Protect Him from Harmful Chemicals on the Ground Again, your dog’s paws are covered with thick padding that make them more resilient than other parts of the body. Harsh chemicals like antifreeze can, however, still be absorbed through the padding. There is also the risk that your dog might lick the chemicals off his paws – this can lead to even more severe internal damage. It is always a good idea to wipe or wash dog paws off after a winter walk to remove any chemicals he may have walked through. Myth 3: The Size of a Puppy’s Paws Indicate his Adult Size It is a common assumption that if a puppy has large paws, he will grow into a very large dog. While this may be true in some cases, the size of a puppy’s paws are dependent upon the breed and even if he has large paws as a puppy, he will still likely grow to a normal size for his breed. Some breeds, like Great Danes, tend to grow very quickly when they are puppies so it may seem like some parts of the body are growing faster than others. Related: How To Trim Dog Nails Tips for Keeping Dog Paws Healthy Just as you provide your dog with a high-quality diet to keep his body healthy and brush his fur regularly to keep his coat healthy, there are certain things you should do to keep his paws healthy. Follow the tips below to keep your dog’s paws healthy all year round: Keep your dog’s nails trimmed so that they just touch the ground when he walks – they shouldn’t click or drag.Trim the fur between your dog’s toes to avoid painful matting.Use dog-friendly moisturizer to keep the padding on your dog’s paws from drying out and cracking – do not use human moisturizer because it can cause the pads to become too soft.Pay attention to your dog’s paws during and after walks – treat minor cuts and wounds with antibacterial wash and a light bandage.During the summer, avoid walking your dog on hot sand or pavement – if you must, use protective booties.During the winter, use protective booties or a layer of Vaseline to protect against salt and other chemicals.

6 Salty Safety Tips For Your Dog On A Boat

Before you shove off from the dock, we have some important tips for your dog on a boat Ahoy there matey! Are you planning a boat voyage this summer that includes your dog as a first mate? Before you set sail, let’s go over some safety tips that will come in handy this summer. After all, you want this trip for your dog on a boat to go ship-shape! Invest in a dog life jacket. Even if your dog is a strong swimmer, he should be wearing a life jacket that fits him properly. You don’t know what the conditions are going to like on the open water and it won’t take long for a strong swimmer to tire in choppy water. And you want to be able to pull your dog out of the water quickly if he goes overboard – life jackets have a handle so you can lift them out easily.Have a first aid kit on hand. You should always be prepared of scrapes and bumps on a boat, especially if your dog doesn’t have his sea legs yet. This kit should have antibiotic ointment, seasickness remedies and any medications your dog is on, just in case your three-hour tour becomes unexpectedly waylaid.Keep plenty of water onboard. You may be surrounded by water, but you want to make sure your dog is hydrated while you’re on the boat. It’s going to get hot out there, so on top of fresh water, you’ll need to provide shade for your furry first mate. As well, dogs need sunscreen too. Your dog needs protection from that blazing sun. Use either sunscreen that’s made for dogs or cover him up with a white t-shirt. And you’ll want to keep him off surfaces that heat up quickly in order to protect the pads of his paws.It’s potty time. Even if you’re going to be out on the water, your dog is going to need to do his business. Be prepared so your dog won’t have to hold it. Bring along a portable dog potty that simulates grass (we like the Pet Loo). This way, you won’t be swabbing the deck if an accident occurs.Have a “Dog Overboard!” plan. Whether he goes in on his own or by accident, you need to know what to do if your dog dives into the water. It won’t do him or anyone else any good if you panic and jump in after him. Know what you’re going to do before hand and make sure everyone on the boat is aware of the plan.Go for a test run before the big trip. If this is your dog’s first time on a boat, you should take him for a short trip before embarking on your long voyage. Let him get to know the boat – take him on a tour, go for a little spin and make sure he feels comfortable and safe. By following these tips for your dog on a boat, your sea-faring adventures will be more enjoyable for everyone onboard. And if you’re a salty dog and have some tips for a dog on a boat, we’d be delighted to hear them. Please leave them in the comment section below.

Safety Tips: Flying With A Dog

Get ready for takeoff – we’ve put together a list of safety tips when flying with a dog Nothing is more satisfying than stepping out of the house and into your vacation – leaving all of your work and worries behind at home. If you are lucky, you don’t have to leave your dog at home – you can bring him with you! Most dogs travel well but there are some precautions you need to take to ensure your dog’s safety, especially if flying is part of your travel plans. Here’s what you need to know before flying with a dog. Preparing for the Trip The most important thing you can do is to book your trip early to ensure that you are able to get your dog on the same flight as you. In most cases, airlines will only allow one or two dogs per flight so you need make your arrangements as early as possible – do not buy your own ticket until you ensure that there is room for your dog as well. If possible, arrange for a direct flight so your dog doesn’t have to go through the stress of being transferred to and from several planes. In regard to the timing of your flight, try to choose weekday flights when the airport is less likely to be crowded – the grounds crew will also be less busy and more likely to handle your dog with care. To avoid exposing your dog to extreme temperatures, choose morning or evening flights during the summer and midday flights during the winter. Related: Dog Travel Essentials Bring all the Necessities In order to take your dog on the plane, you will need to keep him safely secured in a crate/carrier. The type of carrier you choose may depend on the size of the dog and whether your dog is traveling in the cabin or in the cargo hold. For dogs traveling in the cabin, choose a soft-sided carrier that will fit under the seat during your flight. For dogs traveling in the cargo hold, a hard-sided carrier is recommended. Keep in mind that the carrier should be large enough to allow your dog to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably – if it doesn’t, the airline may refuse to transport your dog. In addition to the carrier for your dog, you should also bring all of his identification. Your dog should always wear ID tags anyway, but the airline will need to see them as well as your own identification to make sure the information matches. It is also a good idea to bring a current photo of your dog in case he gets lost during transport – it is easier to match a dog to a photograph than a description. If your dog doesn’t already have one, you might consider a microchip as well. Related: Guide to Pet Friendly Hotels Just Before the Flight It is not recommended that you feed your dog less than four hours before the flight – he will be uncomfortable flying on a full stomach and you don’t want to risk him getting sick in the carrier. Feed your dog about four hours before the flight and make sure he has access to water up until the flight. Exercise your dog if possible just before the flight because he will be stuck in the crate for several hours – make sure he does his business before you bring him to the cargo hold. Other Tips to Consider Different airlines have different policies for how early they will allow you to check in with your dog. For the most part, you won’t be allowed to check in more than four hours before the flight – in most cases, two hours is the recommended time. Do not give your pet a tranquilizer before the flight because it could cause a negative reaction when your dog is exposed to changes in altitude and pressure during the flight. Once you arrive at your destination, give your dog time to stretch his legs and make sure he has fresh water to drink. When you arrive at the hotel, give him a few minutes to sniff around and get used to his new surroundings. It shouldn’t take long, however, for your dog to settle in and for him to be ready to enjoy his vacation.

Dog Helps Find Missing Child

Dogs can be heroes, and that’s certainly the case when it comes to the story of a very special police K9 in Auburn, Massachusetts. When a 12-year-old went missing from their home and couldn’t be found for roughly two hours, Auburn police knew that they had to work quickly, and Biza the dog played an integral role in the child’s rescue.Child Found with the Help of a Police K9 Named BizaAccording to a Facebook post by Auburn MA Police Department, information about a missing child was received around 10:30 p.m. on January 31, 2024. The child had been missing since around 8:30 p.m., when they had left their home. No one knew where the child could be, and the frigid temperatures made everyone worry even more about their safety.Because the child had last been seen in the Pakachoag Hill area, Auburn police officers, Massachusetts State Police troopers, and detectives got to work looking for them. But it would be Biza, the K9 partner of Officer Ljunggren, who would really come through and help the search end successfully that night.Following the Scent to a Missing ChildBiza picked up the child’s scent and tracked it for more than two miles. The police were able to find signs that the missing child had been in the area, so they kept up the search until they were able to find them and bring them home to their family just a short while later.This is one example of many times that Biza has helped police in Auburn succeed since she joined them in 2022 from Germany. In addition to helping find missing people, she has also helped police track down suspects.  Thanks to Biza and her ability to track the right scent that night, a child was saved from the cold and made it home safe.Here’s a quick video about this story, showcasing a few photos of beautiful Biza:

Guide Dog Trigger Retires After Fathering Over 300 Puppies

A nine-year-old golden retriever, nicknamed The Dogfather, is going to a well-earned retirement after fathering a grand total of 323 puppies. Trigger has spent his years being the star stud dog of Guide Dogs. This charity organization specializes in breeding and training guide dogs for people with visual impairment in the United Kingdom. Since the beginning of his stud career in December 2016, Trigger has fathered 39 litters, including a record-breaking litter with 16 puppies in 2021. According to Guide Dogs, 294 of Trigger’s puppies have been bred by the charity itself, and an additional 29 puppies by other assistance dog charities and guide dog schools, bringing his grand total to 323 puppies.The Dogfather’s final litter consisted of six puppies, including five daughters named Rita, Jenny, Hermione, Indy, and Sandy, and a son, named Billy. The last of Trigger's offspring are eight weeks old and about to start their guide dog training and will be living with volunteer puppy raisers for the next year. “Trigger’s legacy can be seen in the independence and confidence his progeny has brought to the lives of blind and partially sighted people all over Britain,” shared Guide Dogs in a news release. The Dogfather’s puppies have been affectionately nicknamed Triglets by guide dog owners and volunteers. These pups have been guiding visually impaired and partially sighted individuals across the United Kingdom, including London, Cardiff, Glasgow, and even the Isle of Wright. Two of Trigger’s litters have been bred abroad at guide dog organizations in France and the Netherlands, creating guide dog partnerships in both countries. “Trigger’s wonderful, gentle nature and excellent health have made him the perfect asset to our breeding program. We can’t overstate the impact that Trigger has in helping us to provide so many guide dogs for people with sight loss,” said Janine Dixon, Head of Breeding Operations at Guide Dogs. Dixon added the charity hopes that Billy, Trigger’s son, will continue his father’s legacy by joining the breeding program in a few years.“In the meantime, nine of his daughters, as well, as his half-French son Pierre, are helping us to bring forward a new generation of dogs with Trigger’s fantastic genes,” shared Guide Dogs.When it comes to Trigger’s future, he will spend his well-earned retirement in Branbury with his Breeding Dog Volunteer Sarah Bryne, who has been looking after him for the past seven years and will now officially adopt him. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why Is My Bird Biting Me?

If you’re a bird parent, you love and cherish your feathered friend – but what do you do when your bird nips or bites? This is a behavior that can be both surprising and concerning, especially for first-time bird parents. But know, you’re not alone!If you’re wondering, “Why is my bird biting me?” This article is for you!We will explore the different factors and explanations for your pet bird’s newly developed biting tendencies, helping you understand the motivations, identify when there is a deeper problem requiring your attention, and learn how to address the behavior appropriately.Let’s look at how to set you and your bird up for a long, happy relationship by addressing problem biting today.Do Bird Bites Hurt?The short answer to this is – Maybe? Whether or not your bird’s bite will hurt depends on a few factors, including how the bird bites, their overall intention, your bird’s size, and your level of pain tolerance.Bird bites can range from a light little nibble that merely tickles to bites that have the capability of causing serious damage, especially to vulnerable areas like the eyes, ears, nose, lips, fingers, and toes.The potential for a bird bite to cause severe or lasting injuries highlights the importance of understanding your bird, why they may bite, and how to prevent this situation from happening. It’s also one of the most important reasons to consider when deciding if a bird is right for your child, elderly, or special needs family member.Even smaller birds can cause a surprising amount of pain. Often, it’s not the initial bite that causes the most pain. Instead, it’s the way that they will dig in or even grind their beaks that will lead to discomfort, stinging, and soreness.

Watch This Brave Cat Save Her Dog Sibling from a Coyote Attack

Who said that there is no love between cats and dogs? This touching story proves that some bonds between a cat and a dog are so strong that one would risk their life for the other! The event took place in Edmond, Oklahoma, where a tiny pooch was miraculously saved from a vicious coyote attack– by none other than a feisty cat. At first glance, Oakley, a white Havanese dog, and Binx, a black cat, seem to belong to completely different worlds. But even so, they are family. Lane Dyer, the owner of the two, explains for Oklahoma News how the attack - and the daring rescue - came to be.“I was kind of inspired by it, quite frankly,” she said. The event occurred on November 30th, when the 6-year-old Havanese dog, Oakley, was let outside to go to the bathroom. “Out of nowhere she was attacked by a coyote,” said Dyer. Soon enough, another coyote came rushing.

This Special Camera Reveals How Our Pets See the World Around Them

Have you ever wondered how your pet  sees the world around them? We all know that the eyes of dogs, cats, and all other animals are not the same as ours, and they often see the world in a very different way. While all we could do is imagine and theorize up until now, thanks to a new breakthrough in technology we will be able to take a peek through the eyes of animals!Scientists have  invented a special camera that uses a unique combination of state-of-the-art hardware and software, in order to create videos and images that show us exactly how certain animals see. For example, with this latest tech, you will be able to see the vivid world of colors that are seen through the eyes of birds and bees. One of the recent demonstrations revealed how a UV-sensitive vision of a bird renders an orange sulfur butterfly - the result is more than striking, as it doesn’t look like anything related to human vision.

New Survey Ranks America's Top Dog Breeds by State

There’s no doubt about it - Americans love their dogs! We know that your pooch is the best breed, but have you wondered which are the most favored dog breeds in America? Forbes surveyed 10,000 dog owners across the 50 states to find America’s top dog breed. The survey involved the top 25 most popular dog breeds nationwide, according to the American Kennel Club. So, what is America’s top dog? As it turns out, “no breed in particular” is the country’s favorite at 13%.However, if Americans had to decide, they’d pick the Australian shepherd as a favorite, followed by the German shepherd and the bulldog.The highly intelligent and energetic Australian shepherd was ranked as the top dog breed in 10 states, including Alabama, Arizona, Alaska, Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Montana, Missouri, New York, and Virginia. This breed was also voted the second favorite in nine states. Although Aussies won the popularity vote, the German shepherd was the number one pick in 16 states. That’s more than any other breed!Known for its loyal and courageous nature, the German shepherd is the most common breed to serve as a police K9 but also makes a wonderful family companion. They ranked as the second favorite dog breed in nine states. Interestingly, more men than women picked German shepherds as their favorite breed (9% compared to 6%). America’s 3rd favorite breed, according to Forbes, is the bulldog. The English bulldog is a medium-sized dog breed, best known for its stocky build, large head, and wrinkled face. The bulldog ranked as the top dog in eight states, including Illinois, Connecticut, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, West Virginia, and Utah. Among all states, Nebraska ranked the bulldog lowest, placing this breed at 24th place, The lovable and friendly Labrador retriever ranked as the nation’s 4th favorite breed. Thanks to their affectionate, friendly, and energetic nature, Labs make great companions to people of all ages and families with children. Labrador retrievers ranked as the most favorite dog breed in 10 states, including Louisiana, Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, Massachusetts, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Oregon, South Dakota, and West Virginia. Bernese mountain dog is the 5th favorite dog breed in the United States. Large in size and built for hard work, Bernese mountain dogs are easy to train and make affectionate, loyal, and faithful companions. So, it’s no surprise that this doggo ranked as the most favorite breed in nine states. Compared to four other top-ranked breeds, the Bernese mountain dog had the most varying results, with 10 states ranking this breed in the bottom 10.The beagle is the nation’s favorite small breed. Ranked as the 6th favorite breed overall, the beagle was placed in the top 10 favorite breeds in all but seven states. This breed received the lowest ranking in Utah, where it was voted as the state’s 3rd least favorite breed.The golden retriever comes in at 7th place, after being voted as the most favorite dog breed in Michigan and Wisconsin. Medium in size and best known for their gorgeous golden coats, golden retrievers are loving, loyal, and affectionate companions to active people and families with children. Goldens were the 2nd favorite dog breed in four states, including New Hampshire, North Dakota, Connecticut, and Vermont. This breed ranked the lowest in Alabama, where it received 17th place.These are America’s most favorite dog breeds, but the nation also has the least favorite doggo. This title goes to the Havanese, which was the bottom-ranked breed in 33 states.The Havanese is followed by Pembroke Welsh Corgi which was the least favorite dog breed in 17 states. And what about you? What’s your favorite and least favorite dog breed?Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can Cats Get Frostbite?

When a cat is exposed to extremely cold conditions, they are at risk of frostbite, which may require professional veterinary care. But what is frostbite, what puts a cat at risk of frostbite, and what can be done to treat it? Here’s a short guide to help you better understand this condition and keep your cat safe.

What You Need to Know About XL Bully Ban

American XL Bully dogs will be banned by the end of the year after numerous attacks were reported across the United Kingdom. The term "XL Bully" typically refers to a type of  American Bully breed known for its muscular build and larger size compared to standard American Bullies. These dogs are often selectively bred for their size, strength, and temperament, so while they are not inherently aggressive, they have the means to do some damage if they are reared to be dangerous.The ban has owners of bully breeds across the UK scared and confused, so here’s what you need to know about the details of this edict. Starting from December 31st, all XL Bullies will have to be kept on a lead and have a muzzle while in public. What is more, from this date it will be completely illegal to advertise, breed, sell, exchange, gift, or abandon or let stray any XL Bullies. In short – it is a decisive strike against this breed, as announced by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, earlier this year.Furthermore, a complete ban on people owning XL Bullies will come into force in the UK from February 1st, 2023. This had owners scared that their pets would have to be put down just because of their breed, but, luckily, that’s not the case. If the owner applies before the end of January, with the wish to keep their pet. With that, the household will receive an exemption certificate, but it will also have to comply with a very strict set of rules related to the breed. UK government department Defra has announced that it received more than 4,000 exemption applications so far and that a “majority” were approved. Their spokesperson said that “ "The majority of applications are successful and the majority of successful applicants are receiving their certificates in less than a week."This only supports the assurances that there will be no “forced” euthanization of these dogs. However, those people that do not apply for an exemption by the end of the deadline, will have to put their XL Bullies down. They will be granted £200 to cover the costs of a vet euthanizing their dog. Rescue and rehoming organizations can claim £100 per animal for the same purpose. The government's website states "the euthanasia must be performed by 31 January 2024" for these financial claims to be successful. Sadly, because of this new law, at least 246 XL Bullies will be put down in the coming period, as their owners did not apply for an exemption, or were not granted one. American XL Bullies are not the first dogs to be banned in the UK. Several breeds were banned in the past, and owning them is now completely illegal. These breeds include the  Pitbull terrier,  Japanese Tosa,  Dogo Argentino, and  Fila Brasileiro. Owning a banned dog breed can get you in plenty of trouble, specifically an unlimited fine and a six-month prison sentence. 

TikTok "Cheese Tax" Video Seriously Resonates with Pet Owners

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

Can Counterconditioning Help My Reactive Dog?

Caring for and managing a reactive dog can be incredibly frustrating. Your dog may be a sweet angel at home, but they suddenly evolve into a barking, growling, lunging whirlwind when out in public.Luckily, there is hope!Overcoming reactivity is a process that will not happen overnight. However, dog trainers and behaviorists have seen great success with positive reinforcement techniques like counterconditioning.This article will explore how counterconditioning works, the steps involved in the process, realistic timelines and expectations, and tips for a successful journey toward a calmer, more confident dog. Get started today!What is Counterconditioning for Dogs?Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is counterconditioning, and why is it recommended for managing and treating reactive dogs?Counterconditioning is a behavioral modification technique that focuses on changing your dog’s emotional response to a specific stimulus.For example, some dogs feel fear and anxiety at the sight of another dog. This could be due to a lack of socialization, meaning they weren’t taught that other dogs can be friendly. It could also be a reaction to a past trauma, like having been attacked by another dog. In these situations, counterconditioning can be used to teach your dog that the sight of another dog leads to a positive experience.Why is this an effective approach for addressing reactivity? Reactivity, by definition, is an overreaction to a trigger. While this is often associated with fear or anxiety, some reactive dogs become overly excited. An overexcited dog may jump all over strangers not because they are trying to cause harm but because they are so excited to see them that they can’t control their response.If you have identified your dog’s triggers, you can use this training approach to teach them to respond in a new (and better) way.What Can Counterconditioning Be Used to Treat?Reactivity isn’t the only behavioral condition that can be treated with counterconditioning. This technique can be used to address a wide spectrum of situations in which a pet may be responding to a situation or trigger in an unwanted way.Some situations where it is commonly recommended include helping dogs overcome specific fears or phobias as well as managing or overcoming behaviors related to obsessive-compulsive disorder.Common fears that may be addressed with counterconditioning include: Fear of car ridesAnxiety when visiting the vetNoises (fireworks, thunder)Babies (especially the sound of crying)Strangers or other dogs in publicAllowing guests to enter their homePhysical triggers like cars or bicyclesDogs who dislike grooming, like brushing or having their nails trimmedIf you believe this approach may be helpful in your dog’s unique situation, we recommend speaking with a behaviorist.You can find professionals in your area by browsing the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists website list or the Animal Behavior Consultants Directory by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.

Sleeping With Pets: Here's What Experts Have to Say

Pet parents adore their four-legged companions so much that they choose to sleep with them at night. Research shows that more than half of pet owners sleep with their pets. Most pet owners consider their pets part of the family, so it is no surprise that they will go out of their way to ensure their furry companions’ comfort. However, with an increasing focus on our sleep health, pet parents are starting to wonder about the potential disadvantages of sleeping with pets. In fact, sharing a bed with a pet is the subject of controversy among pet parents.Various studies suggest that there are many benefits to sleeping with pets. And experts tend to agree. According to Audrey Wells, MD, a board-certified sleep medicine physician, a pet can provide an emotional connection and reduce anxiety and stress levels, therefore promoting sleep. “Some people may consider their pets an added layer of security, dependable to alert them to unexpected noises or lights.”Another benefit of sleeping with your pet is that they can keep you nice and warm during the night. People who get chilled easily might enjoy cuddling with a furry companion during frigid winter nights.“Pets are sensitive to routine, and they can help enforce a regular bedtime and better sleep quality for their owner,” explained Dr. Wells. “Similarly, pets can signal wake-up time in the morning and even prompt some time outside for a walk and daylight exposure.”If you enjoy sleeping with your pet and find it beneficial for your sleep, the science agrees with you. According to Amanda Farah, National Training and Behavioral Coordinator at Best Friends Animal Society, studies have found that some people sleep more soundly when their dog is sleeping next to them. “If you and your dog both sleep well together, you’ll enjoy the health benefits that come with a good night’s sleep, such as improved mental clarity, lower blood pressure, reduced stress, and a stronger immune system,” explained Farah.According to Teddy Cralle, Ms, RN, certified clinical sleep educator, some people sleep better when their pet is in the bed, but some don’t. If there’s a chance that you won't get a good night’s rest while sleeping with your pet you shouldn't sleep with them in the first place. For example, if you’re a light sleeper and your dog likes to change positions during the night, sleeping with your pooch may wake you more often, resulting in low-quality sleep. Also, some pups like to claim the entire bed for themselves, leading to a sleepless night and a backache. “Sacrificing your sleep means sacrificing your health, well-being, and quality of life - and that is not a sacrifice to make,” Cralle added.Sharing a bed with a pet may not be the best idea if you’re an asthma or allergy sufferer. Although some dog breeds shed less than others, no dog is truly hypoallergenic because it’s their dander and not hair that triggers an allergic reaction. Zoonotic diseases are another downside of sleeping with pets. Research has confirmed that sharing a bed with a pet can increase the exposure rate to pathogens that might be present. Although no one wants to think about it, pets can bring unwanted guests to your bed. Fleas and ticks are the most active during the warmer months, but the truth is they can infest your pet all year long. If the downsides of sleeping with your pet have made you reconsider your sleeping arrangement don’t fret - you can still have your pooch close by while you sleep. A crate or a cozy dog bed next to your bed will help everyone get a good night’s rest. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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

Loss of lifestyle guru's 15-year old fur kid now leaves her feisty feline, Blackie in charge.

How Do I Manage My Dog's Separation Anxiety When I'm At Work?

No one likes to be separated from their cherished pet for too long. But going to work is unavoidable for most of us, and, inevitably, our pets have to stay home alone. It might not seem like a big deal to you, knowing you’ll be back after a few hours, but it is definitely a big deal for your dog. In fact, most pet dogs are affected by this separation so much that they can experience anxiety and stress, ranging from mild discomfort to severe panic. Needless to say, this is traumatic for your pet (and can result in destroyed valuables, too) so it’s important to learn how to help them manage anxiety when you’re away. Here are some tips to help you navigate your pet’s separation anxiety while you’re at the office. 6 Ways To Prevent Dog Separation Anxiety When You’re At WorkGoing off to work and leaving their pet behind is a challenge for many pet owners around the world, especially those who live alone. When you're at the office, you need to make sure your pet is safe and taken care of until you come back. But even when you organize everything, your pet might feel stressed out on their own - even when it’s for a few hours, your dog won’t know why you left or even if you are coming back which can be a trigger for a panic attack for some canines. Some, especially  velcro dogs, get so nervous and stressed that they develop a separation anxiety disorder. But even so, there are many ways to help your pet cope when you're at work, regardless of the severity of their anxiety – here are 6 ways to reduce stress for your four-legged bestie.Create a Consistent Routine:Dogs thrive when they have a routine. Establish a consistent daily schedule for feeding, walks, and playtime. This helps them know what to expect and when. You can create their schedule around your work hours, so your pet will not find it odd that you are not there when they know what to expect before and after your shift (e.g. walk and mealtime).Gradual Departures and Arrivals:Don't make a big fuss when leaving or returning home. Keep your arrivals and departures low-key to reduce anxiety. This helps normalize the process. Make it seem like you just popped out for a few minutes. If you help your dog understand it is not a big deal, they might pick up on your relaxed energy and stay calm when you depart.Offer Interactive Toys: 

Top stories

Safety Tips For Running With a Dog at Night

Give Your Cat a Purr-fect Treat

What Are Dogs Allergic To In The Spring?

Top stories

Safety Tips For Running With a Dog at Night

Related articles