What to Know About Swim Safety for Dogs

by Kevin Roberts

Published: May 7th, 2019

Does your doggy like to paddle in the water? Don’t jump into the deep end until you read up on these important swim safety tips for dogs.

As the mercury begins to climb and we enter the dog days of summer, many of us escape the heat in our local swim spot. Dogs seek this relief as well. Here’s are a few things to consider before your dog dives into the water.

Where to Go

I have been coast to coast to coast with my pack of dogs. We have enjoyed sandy beaches, meandering rivers, rocky shores, blue lakes, oceans and concrete pools. Sometimes finding a good swimming spot can require a little bit of detective work. Ask in campground offices, pet stores and on social media where good spots for a quick dip are. Some areas have designated dog beaches and swimming holes, while others take a more casual approach.

Obey all posted signs. If a sign says “No dogs”, it means no dogs. You don’t want to swim on their no-dog beach anyways!

Consider Swim Style

Some dogs are waders, some are jumpers, some are toe tippers. There’s room for all types. Just be sure to not force your dog to do something he isn’t comfortable doing. Lots of praise and encouragement can turn a toe dipper into a wader. But if your dog isn’t comfortable taking their feet off the solid ground, that’s okay too!

While breed type can be a huge factor in determining if your dog will take to the water like a duck, or sink like a rock, there are exceptions to every rule. No one knows your dog better than you.

Don’t throw the dog. Seems a little surprising to have to say this, but seriously, don’t throw the dog. No matter how well your dog swims, don’t toss him in. Besides the potential injury and the whole drowning thing, it’s just not cool. It’s cool if your dog wants to jump in, slide in, wade in, run in, in safe conditions, it’s all fair game as long as it’s the dog’s choice.

When to Go

I tend to avoid peak times; less people means less drama. Plus, if my dogs are skinny dipping, I want them to have some privacy! Peak times tend to be the hottest part of the day, which I know makes sense as to cool my dogs off, but dogs tend to drink more when it’s hot out, and I don’t want them to drink from our swimming spots. So I tend to take them earlier in the morning, which gives them a nice cool swim and plenty of time to dry off.

Related: Top 10 Swim Gear For Your Dog

Avoiding people is one thing, but avoiding wildlife is also high on my list. Many wild animals are most active at dawn and dusk. These include predators and prey. Either way, skipping out on the dawn and dusk swims means we have less chance of encountering wildlife. Many of which are drawn to water sources during these times.

Stay Hydrated

Before we go for a swim, I ensure my dogs have plenty to drink. I even bring along some baited water to encourage them to drink from a known water source, opposed to where we are swimming. This has allowed to avoid mishaps with giardia or other water borne pathogens.

By encouraging the dogs to drink from water I bring along, it also helps me monitor how much they are drinking.

Water Intoxication

Hyponatremia (excessively low sodium levels) is a very rare, but fatal condition found in dogs who love the water. Swimming, playing fetch, chasing waves can result in a dog ingesting too much water. Any size dog, who enjoys the water just a little too much can be at risk. Early symptoms include a loss of coordination, lethargy, vomiting, bloating and glazed eyes. Water intoxication is life threatening and veterinary assistance must be accessed immediately.

Limber Tail

A dog suffering from this condition may appear to have a broken tail. The tail will either stick out a few inches then drop down, or hang limply. It’s not actually that the bones are broken, but that the muscles around the tail are affected. Veterinarians believe it is linked to over-exertion, but limber tail is definitely made worse by repeated plunges into water that is considerably colder than the air temperature.

Swimming is Tiring

Swimming is hard work! Sometimes dogs get a little too excited chasing a ball, or playing in the water that they forget just how hard they are working. It’s our job to ensure that they limit their swim sessions to an appropriate length of time.

A properly fitting PFD, in this case a Pup Flotation Device, is a great idea. Even the best of swimmers can benefit from the added flotation boost. Look for bright colors to aid in visibility as well.

Kevin Roberts

Kevin Roberts lives for adventure. Together with his pack of rescue dogs and his husband, he spends as much time outdoors as possible. Kevin lives by the motto: "Get outside and play with your dogs!

More by Kevin Roberts

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

View Article

Canine PTSD: What You Need To Know About PTSD In Rescue Dogs

You’re likely familiar with what Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is and what it may look like in humans. But did you know that up to nearly a fifth of rescue dogs are also affected by canine PTSD? Research out of the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine suggests that more dogs suffer from it than we know, and understanding what symptoms look like can help dogs and their families live happier lives.

What to Know About Chemotherapy for Dogs

A common treatment for humans, chemotherapy is also used for dogs. If your dog has cancer, chemotherapy may be a treatment option that could save his life. “Cancer” is a scary word, especially when you’re talking about your best friend – your dog. Unfortunately, fifty percent of dogs over the age of 10 years develop some form of cancer and the cost to treat it with chemotherapy often doesn’t justify an extra six months or so of life. But what exactly does chemotherapy look like for dogs and what do you need to know when considering it as an option? Keep reading to find out. When is Chemotherapy an Option? Simply put, chemotherapy is the name given to medications that are designed to kill cancer cells. The specific combination of these medications given to a dog is determined by the type of cancer as well as its severity. As long as the cancer is caught early, many forms of cancer are treatable with chemotherapy, and dogs tend to respond better to this type of treatment than humans do. Dogs do not lose their hair and gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and vomiting are less common. Related: 7 Types of Cancer in Dogs The most common forms of cancer in dogs are lymphoma, mast cell tumors, mammary gland tumors, and soft tissue sarcoma as well as various types of bone cancer. While surgery is common for tumors, chemotherapy may be recommended in cases where the cancer has already spread to other parts of the body (this is called metastasis), or if there is a high potential for this to happen. Even if your dog undergoes surgery, chemotherapy may be recommended as a precaution against recurrence. How Much Does Chemotherapy Cost? If you’ve ever taken your dog to an emergency veterinarian, you know that non-standard veterinary services can be very expensive. The cost of chemotherapy varies greatly depending how many treatments your dog needs, but the standard protocol to treat lymphoma costs between $3,500 and $4,500 on average. For more aggressive cancers or cancers that have already spread, the cost could be upwards of $10,000. As much as you love your dog, you need to ask yourself whether you can afford the price of chemotherapy and whether it will actually extend your dog’s lifespan to a significant degree. Related: The National Canine Cancer Foundation What Should You Expect During Chemotherapy? Chemotherapy drugs come in several different forms. In most cases, they can be administered by injection in a treatment that lasts no more than a few seconds. Some treatments need to be administered more slowly, over the course of a few minutes, but it is rare for the treatment to last all day. There are also oral medications that can be given in the vet’s office or at home. The side effects of chemotherapy are much milder for dogs than for humans and they last for a shorter period of time. Up to 80% of dogs who receive chemotherapy have no side effects at all and, those who do, usually only experience a loss of appetite and mild nausea. Less than 5% of dogs will have a severe enough reaction that they need to be given IV fluids in the office and, in most cases, any side effects a dog experiences will disappear within a day or two. Dealing with a cancer diagnosis is never easy, but you need to keep your wits about you and make the smart choice. Talk to your veterinary oncologist about the options and have a very real conversation about your dog’s chances. In some cases, it may be better to keep your dog comfortable and help him enjoy his remaining time rather than subjecting him to chemotherapy treatments.

What You Need to Know About Hemophilia in Dogs

When your dog suffers from this disease, a small cut can cause big problems. Here’s what all pet parents should know about Hemophilia in dogs. When you cut or scrape yourself, the wound may bleed but it generally starts to clot fairly quickly before you suffer any serious blood loss – the same is true for your dog. If your dog has a condition called hemophilia, however, this may not be the case. Keep reading to learn more about what hemophilia is, its symptoms, and the best treatment options. What is Hemophilia in Dogs? The dictionary defines hemophilia as, “a medical condition in which the ability of the blood to clot is severely reduced, causing the sufferer to bleed severely form even a slight injury.” One of the most common types of hemophilia seen in dogs is simply called Hemophilia A and it is caused by a deficiency of a specific clotting factor, Factor VIII. Related: What Is von Willebrand in Dogs? If you are familiar with common health problems affecting dogs, this might remind you of another disease called von Willebrand disease which frequently affects Poodles, Doberman Pinschers, Akitas, Miniature Schnauzers, and Golden Retrievers. Von Willebrand disease is actually a type of hemophilia caused by a deficiency of the plasma protein von Willebrand factor, or vWF, which is necessary to form clots and to stabilize Factor VIII. Essentially, a dog that has hemophilia tends to bleed excessively from even mild wounds because the blood does not clot as quickly as it should. This is very dangerous in general, but it becomes even more dangerous if the dog requires surgery or if he suffers an injury that causes internal bleeding. Related: Research Finds Unlikely Dog Breeds Carry Genes for Genetic Disorders Common Symptoms and Treatment Options In many cases, hemophilia is an inherited condition, so it is essential that dogs with this condition are not bred. When it comes to identifying the disease, in many cases hemophilia is not diagnosed until the dog suffers from a significant injury or has to undergo surgery. The main symptom is, of course, excessive bleeding but there may be other signs such as the following: Bleeding from the dog’s nose or gumsBloody urine or stoolsBruising of the skin very easilyProlonged or excessive bleeding during/after surgery Diagnosing hemophilia is fairly easy if your dog displays one or more of the symptoms listed above but there are also blood tests that can be helpful. Testing for the amount of vWF in his blood is a strong indicator of hemophilia in dogs, though your vet might also recommend additional tests like a complete blood count (CBC) to rule out other possible causes for symptoms. Once the condition has been identified, there are certain things you can do to manage it, but it is not something that can be cured. You will need to be extra careful to prevent your dog from getting injured and, if he does suffer an injury, you may need to take him to the vet quickly to stop the bleeding. If your dog is planned for surgery, make sure the surgeon knows about his hemophilia so they can take steps to reduce blood loss both during and after surgery. Though the various types of hemophilia in dogs cannot be cured, there are steps you can take to manage your dog’s condition. The best thing you can do is to learn as much as you can about his condition and how to prevent injury. With proper management, your dog can live a long and healthy life!

What You Need To Know About Lymphoma In Dogs

The most common form of canine cancer, pet parents need to know about lymphoma in dogs, the treatment options available and the survival rate of this disease. It’s one of the fast rising cancers in young people in North America today, but did you know that it actually leads the pack in the dog world when it comes to malignancies? It’s lymphoma and for humans and canines alike it requires early diagnosis and aggressive treatment to win the battle. What Causes Lymphoma? As with human cancers, there is no definitive answer. Researchers know it occurs more often in middle aged to older dogs and in breeds such as Boxers, Bull Mastiffs, Basset Hounds, Saint Bernard’s, Scottish Terriers, Airedales and Bull dogs. But research is also looking at environmental triggers. A recent study of diagnosed dogs showed increased cases where owners had sprayed herbicides on their lawns, lived in industrial areas or in households where chemicals like paints and solvents were used frequently. Weak immune systems seem to be another factor. Related: The National Canine Cancer Foundation: Dedicated To Finding A Cure What is Lymphoma? Lymphoma is the name applied to a group of blood cell tumors that develop from lymphatic cells. In dogs, there are five types, with multi-centric being the most common. This form of lymphoma affects the external lymph nodes and in most instances will invade the organs over time. Alimentary lymphoma accounts for about 10 percent of canine lymphomas. It occurs in the gastrointestinal tract of dogs and can become fatal if the tumor is situated near the small or large intestine, restricting the bowel. Symptoms and Diagnosis: Multi-centric is characterized by painless swelling of the lymph nodes including the spleen and liver. While some pooches won’t show any signs of illness the symptoms can present dramatically and pet parents need to be on alert for weight loss, breathing difficulty, abnormal thirst, excessive urination, fever, anemia or even hemorrhaging or sepsis. Related: Revolutionary New Blood Test Helps Diagnose Canine Cancer With alimentary lymphoma the actual diagnosis is more difficult, but symptoms that include vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, excess passing of urine and lethargy should raise sufficient red flags to get your boy into the vet. For most dogs suspected of having lymphoma a thorough physical exam should entail a complete blood count and urinalysis. The final diagnosis can be made through fine needle aspirates of affected lymph nodes or other tissues and use of ultra sound during this procedure can also help evaluate whether the liver, spleen, or abdominal lymph nodes are involved. Treatment and Prognosis: Treatment is determined by the stage of the disease and chemotherapy continues to be the treatment of choice for most patients. For dogs with multi-centric lymphoma, surgery can be carried out if the disease is in its initial phase and careful mapping of the impacted organs supports this course of treatment. Radiation therapy given to patients either after the completion of chemotherapy or during ongoing sessions has also been found to be safe and effective. For pooches with alimentary lymphoma, if local it can be treated effectively with surgical resection combined with chemotherapy. The involvement of local lymph nodes and liver is very common in this case. While many dogs achieve complete remission with chemotherapy, the duration of the remission is temporary and typically lasts six to 20 months, depending on the type and stage of the illness. A second remission is more difficult to achieve and less than 50 percent of dogs undergoing chemo for a second time, will make it into another remission. The sad truth is that less than half the dogs treated for lymphoma will survive a year, and less than 20 percent will survive two. One more reason to hug your dog today!

What You Need To Know About Hookworms In Dogs

They may be small, but hookworms in dogs can lead to big health problems. As pet parents, we love to indulge our furry best friends with the best – from toys and bedding to jackets and boots – nothing is too good for our pet. Similarly, we probably spend more time reading the ingredients on dog food packaging than on the foods we buy for ourselves and yet our pets will still decide that a stagnant puddle or dog poop on the neighbour’s lawn is equally appealing. This is where a vigilant approach to pet parenting steps in. It is crucial that owners recognize the causes and react swiftly to signs of a deadly parasite known as hookworm. Found in contaminated water and infected animal feces, it is clinically known as ancylostomiasis and it can be fatal if left unchecked. Related: What Is Giardia In Dogs? What Causes Hookworms in Dogs? One of the most debilitating forms of canine worms is the hookworm. No more than one-quarter to one-half inch in length, these thin parasites attach themselves to your pet’s small intestine, sucking blood and tissue fluids. Adult dogs become infected through the consumption of infected animals, direct skin penetration (typically through pads of the feet); ingesting larvae from contaminated soil or feces, and in the case of puppies, through their mother’s placenta prior to birth or through her milk after birth. Related: The 411 On Colitis In Dogs Once infected, larvae migrate through your dog’s lungs to their intestines where they mature into adult hookworms and begin to lay eggs. Within 14 to 21 days, these eggs are expelled via your pet’s feces where they contaminate the surrounding soil. While warmer climates provide a more ideal incubation environment, these eggs can hatch anywhere within 48 hours of being expelled from your pet and the larvae become infectious within five to seven days. Symptoms of Hookworms in Dogs Your pet can show visible signs of a hookworm infestation as quickly as 10 days after exposure. He may seem “unhealthy” – his appetite will be off, he will drop weight and due to blood loss, the linings of his nostrils, lips, and ears will be pale. If the hookworm larvae get into his lungs, he will also have a cough. For owners who allow their pets the run-of-the-yard to do their business, take the time to check his stools. Hookworm presence will result in a dark and tarry stool, diarrhea, or even constipation. Once noted, it’s time to get your buddy to the vet ASAP! For puppies, the first indication is the bloody diarrhea –a symptom that requires immediate vet intervention as progressive blood loss may cause rapid deterioration and ultimately death. Often, dogs who recover from hookworms become carriers as the larvae can encyst in their tissues. In this case the previously mentioned symptoms will reappear during times of stress or illness. Treatment Options and Prevention A full and proper diagnosis must be made by your vet and can only be done by a microscopic examination of your pet’s feces. Because it can take from 14 to 21 days for the eggs to appear in his stool there may be a period of time during which the results test negative. In these instances, an interim diagnosis must be made based on his symptoms so that a form of treatment can begin. For mild cases it will likely include an oral de-wormer that is repeated over one-two weeks. This will kill not only present but future larvae as they hatch in your pet’s intestine and will be followed with a fecal examination to confirm the absence of parasites. In some instances, nutritional and iron supplements may also be necessary and in cases where severe anemia is at play, your pet may need to be hospitalized for fluid therapy and blood transfusions. Steps to preventing your pet from becoming infected include maintaining an as-clean-as-possible living/roaming environment. A regular poop-and-scoop approach to your backyard as well as removal of standing water can go a long way in preventing hookworms. But the reality is that our pets are not always at play in a controlled environment. As a result, periodic stool checks with appropriate deworming will identify and prevent the serious consequences of hookworms that have gone unchecked. In addition, the monthly oral medications available through your vet’s office can prove highly effective in preventing hookworms and other parasites.

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. 

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.

Dog Rescued After Surviving a 60-foot Fall from Michigan Cliff

A family’s trip to one of Michigan’s most beautiful landmarks almost ended tragically, when their dog took a tumble from a cliff. The adventurous dog, named Dancer, was rescued after surviving a 60-foot fall from a cliff and spending a freezing night alone in the wilderness. The three-year-old pooch had escaped her leash and plunged off a steep cliff near Miners Castle, in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore area in Munising, Michigan. The lakeshore runs alongside Lake Superior and is located in Michigan’s Upper Penninsula. The National Park Service (NPS) shared in a news release that Dancer fell 60 feet off a cliff to a ledge below. The dog’s owners spent hours searching the area but were unable to find the dog and were convinced that she didn’t survive the fall. Rangers at the nearby Pictured Rocks Park received a message about the lost pooch and decided to enlist the help of Superior High Angle Rescue Professionals (SHARP), a local rope rescue team, to search for the dog. The following morning SHARP members Erik Olsen, Westley Shaffer, and Tyler Davis went to the area and were able to find Dancer, who was cold, but alive. “Though she has spent the night trying to keep warm, she was excited to see the rescuers,” the service wrote. Dancer, who was described as a “professional troublemaker” didn’t have any reported injuries. The lucky pooch has since been reunited with her family and is recovering well after spending the night alone in the wilderness. The park service noted that Dancer was extremely lucky and although her story has a happy ending, her fall should serve as a reminder to everyone that areas of Pictured Rocks can get very cold and extremely slippery.“With this year’s mild start to winter, many areas of Pictured Rocks are more accessible than they are most years,” Chief Ranger Joe Hughes explained. “It is still important to remember to be prepared for slippery, cold conditions that can change quickly.”Whether you’re planning to hit a local trail with your pooch or are planning a trip to a state park, keep your pooch on a leash. Make sure that your pup’s harness is fitted properly so that your pooch can’t wiggle out of it, even if it tries. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Pet Safety Tips for the Holiday Season

The holiday season is here, and you’re probably excited about everything that this festive time of year has to offer. But even though you might be focused on being with the people you love, eating delicious food, and sharing gifts, it’s important to also consider the effects the holidays can have on your pets.To help you enjoy a safe and happy holiday season with your furbabies, here’s a list of holiday safety tips for pets.

How Can I Tell If My Dog Has a Fever?

High fever is no joke, and can be quite serious – both for people and their furry four-legged friends. Yes, dogs can have a fever too, and it can be a much more serious condition for them than it is for us. Unfortunately, fever is not an ailment you can spot with your bare eye. Because of this, you will need to thoroughly observe your pet’s behavior and learn how to spot those little details that indicate a fever. Read on as we go through the basics of dog fever and just how to tell if your pet needs your help.Symptoms of Fever in DogsDogs, like humans, can develop a fever as a response to illness or infection. It’s the body’s natural way to fight off the “intruders” in the body. Fever comes in many forms and for various reasons. You can tell if your dog has a fever by observing their behavior and checking for physical signs. Here are just a few of the most common indicators.Increased Body Temperature: 

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.

Finney the Jack Russell Terrier Survives 72 Days Alone in Wilderness

Loyal after death, this mini-mutt remained at her owner's side until rescuers arrived.

What to Do If Your Dog Ingested Something They Shouldn't?

It’s no secret dogs are nosy – especially when they suspect food is involved. They’ll have no problem jumping on the counter, digging through trash, or “sneakily” stealing stuff off your coffee table if given a chance. Not only that this type of behavior can be really irritating for the owner, but it is also downright dangerous. Dogs can easily swallow something that could cause serious health issues – a tiny object that can cause choking, a hazardous chemical, or some human food that is poisonous to them. In either of these cases, the owner should be prepared and alert as acting quickly is crucial when your pet eats something that they shouldn’t have. But what exactly do you need to do if this happens? What is the course of action to help a dog who ingested something they simply should not? Let’s go over it.What to Do If Your Dog Ingested Something They Shouldn't: Step By Step ExplainedIf your dog has ingested something they shouldn't have, it's important to act quickly. Every second counts in this case so don’t panic even if that’s your first instinct. Going into panic mode never helps and can only make things worse. Instead, try to assess the situation and figure out what has been ingested so you can act accordingly. Here are some general guidelines to follow, but keep in mind that you should always consult with your veterinarian for advice tailored to your specific situation.It is imperative to stay calm. It's understandable to feel scared and panicked, but it's crucial to stay composed. Panicking can make it difficult to think clearly and take appropriate action. Take a deep breath, strengthen your resolve and act.Always try to identify the substance or item ingested, if it’s possible to do so very quickly. This information can be helpful for your veterinarian to provide accurate advice. Do you notice any small objects missing? Any open containers or something similar? Quickly try to find the clues.It goes without saying that it is always crucial to call your veterinarian immediately. Provide them with details about what your dog ingested, the amount, and any symptoms your dog is experiencing. After all, they are professionals who know how to deal with these situations in an efficient manner and will give you the guidelines suited to your situation.Keep in mind not to induce vomiting. Inducing vomiting can be dangerous in some situations and should only be done under the guidance of a veterinarian. Certain substances or items can cause more harm if brought back up. Unless instructed otherwise, don’t do it.Disperse with the panic and fears, and follow the advice of your veterinarian to the letter. Your veterinarian will provide specific instructions based on the substance ingested. Follow their advice carefully, whether it involves inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal, or other measures.It is important to monitor your dog and their behavior. Keep a close eye on them for any changes in behavior, signs of distress, or dangerous symptoms. Be prepared to provide this information to your veterinarian. Sometimes, nothing will show at first, but could later on. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend immediate action, such as going to an emergency veterinary clinic. Follow their advice promptly, or if you see that your dog is in danger, do so as fast as possible.

Bella the Cat Breaks the Guinness World Record for Loudest Purr

A 14-year-old cat from Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, UK has broken the Guinness World Record for the loudest purr by a domestic cat (living). Bella produced a purr measuring 54.59 decibels. To give you a better picture, Bella’s purr was as loud as the sound of a boiling kettle and almost as loud as the sound of a washing machine.Bella’s owner, Nicole Spink, explained to Guinness World Records that her cat’s special talent comes naturally: “She purrs all day long. If there’s food around or cuddles, she always purrs.”“Also when watching TV - she likes to be loud with television. My late husband used to always moan about the sound of her purr blocking the sound of the TV in the evenings.”The Spink family has always known that there’s something special about Bella’s purr. “Friends and family always notice Bella’s loud purr, everyone comments ‘what’s that loud noise? Oh, it’s the cat’. It’s just Bella being happy!”One day, while leafing through the Guinness World Record book, Ms Spink and her daughter decided to perform a test. They downloaded a phone app that recorded and measured Bella’s purr, confirming their suspicions.An app can be a good indicator of a purr’s sound level, but a sound engineer is the only person who can measure it correctly. When the day of the official attempt came, Ms Spink was nervous that Bella wouldn’t want to purr. “She’s a stubborn little old lady and she does how she pleases. It’s very much Queen Bella’s world.”Bella’s record-breaking attempt was overseen by Dave Willson, the Official Guinness World Records adjudicator. “It’s always an exciting day when there is the potential for a new record, so we waited in anticipation to see whether Bella would be able to do it.”Mr Wilson and an independent sound engineer prepared the room in Spink’s family home to block out external noises and set up recording devices. The sound level meter used was kept at a one-meter distance from Bella, as well as a one-meter distance from the ground, following certified instructions. To beat the previous world record, Bella had to purr louder than 50 decibels. According to Mr Wilson, “the results were immediately obvious.”It seems that food might be the reason Bella purrs so loudly. When talking about the record-breaking attempt Ms. Spink said: “I fed her a bowl of Whiskas and then brought her into the room, laid her in her bed and she started purring, just like that!”As you can see, Bella is extremely motivated by food. According to her owner, Bella purrs loudly every time there’s a bowl of food in front of her. Despite her advanced age, Bella sprints to her bowl as soon as she sees a package of her food. A typical day in Bella’s life revolves around three things - food, sleep, and cuddles. Bella will wake up in my bed, she always wakes me up early and asks for her food. Then she’ll ask my kids or anyone else who comes into the house for more food. Then she will sleep, and then she’ll want more food and cuddles. Food and sleep is pretty much her life!”And that’s what you call a purrfect life!While Bella’s 54.59-decibel purr was loud enough to break the world record for a living cat, the record for the loudest purr ever belongs to two other cats - Merlin and Smokey. In 2011, a Northampton cat, Smokey, owned by Lucinda Ruth Adams, was recorded purring at a shocking noise level of 67 decibels. That’s more than 13 decibels louder than Bella’s record-breaking purr. Five years later, Smokey’s record was equated by Merlin, owned by Tracy Westwood in Devon. Smokey and Merlin are still co-holders of the record for the loudest purr by a domestic cat. 

Are Squeaky Toys Safe for Dogs?

When it comes to dog toys that engage and entertain – squeaky toys are a tried and true classic that fits the bill perfectly. While most dogs love the high-pitched tones these chewable and squeezable toys produce, some owners are not as thrilled and are wondering if there are any potential dangers when it comes to squeaky toys. Could the squeaker come off and pose a choking hazard, or can mold build up inside the hollow center, etc? These are all valid questions, so let’s see what the answers are. Are Squeaky Toys Safe for Dogs? Safety Concerns To Have In MindSafety should always be paramount when it comes to choosing toys for your furry friend, especially when it comes to squeaky toys. Not every squeaky toy is created equal, and some may pose risks to your canine companion. Before selecting a squeaky toy, it's crucial to consider several safety factors.Firstly, pay close attention to the material of the toy. Opt for squeaky toys made from durable, non-toxic materials. Avoid toys with small parts that could be easily chewed off and swallowed, as this could lead to potential choking hazards. Ideally, the squeaker should be highly inaccessible, such as is the case in these  Multipet Loofa Dog Toys with a hidden internal squeaker. The long tubular body of the toy concealed the squeaker and is also super fun for pooches to carry and toss around.

10 Foods That Are Bad for Dogs

View Gallery

Study Finds That Cats Have Hundreds of Facial Expressions

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

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.

Top stories

What to Know About Swim Safety for Dogs

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

Guide Dog Trigger Retires After Fathering Over 300 Puppies

Top stories

What to Know About Swim Safety for Dogs

Related articles