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Best Eye Drops for Dogs

Angela Vuckovic
by Angela Vuckovic
Updated:  September 28th, 2022 Published:  August 15th, 2022
Reshetnikov_art/Shutterstock

Unfortunately, most dogs will experience some kind of eye issue during their lifetime. Itchiness, dryness, pink eye, eye infections, gunk buildup, and tearing are all very common issues. But there’s no reason to panic: the right eye drops for dogs will provide you with a quick and lasting remedy.


Whether it is dry eyes, conjunctivitis, tear stains or anything else that’s bothering your pooch, there is a quick solution available – eye drops for dogs. Read on to find out our selection of the 10 best eye drops for dogs. Each one has a unique formula that works like a charm! Say goodbye to eye problems!

Editor’s Choice: Vetericyn Plus All Animal Eye Wash

Check Price $15.99

We all know that dogs can have quite sensitive eyes. Tears, gunk buildup, and irritation can be all too common. But good eye drops and eye wash can put an end to these issues. This fantastic, veterinarian-recommended antimicrobial eye wash is ideal for dealing with irritated pet eyes by flushing, cleaning, and caring for them on a daily level. It is a safe and efficient relief for most common eye issues. It is a unique formula that is safe for most pets – from dogs and cats all the way to horses. It is safe to use around the nose and the mouth and is recommended by leading vets. It is non-irritating, non-toxic, and contains no alcohol, steroids, or antibiotics. As such, it is safe for all life stages and virtually all animals! And that makes it great for everyday use around the household.

Pros

  • Easy to apply
  • No toxic ingredients
  • Great for everyday use
  • No irritation

Cons

  • Can be difficult to administer

Runner Up: Thomas Pet C Bright - Cleansing & Lubricating Eye Drops

Check Price $17.50

It comes quite in handy to have reliable eye drops on hand that can suit both dogs and cats. This unique formula is designed to provide instant eye relief with a soothing, irritation-free sensation. It helps with itching and irritation that can be common with both cats and dogs, and also supports eye function and general health. The secret of this formula is in the blend of zinc and vitamin C, which soothes the eyes but also helps deal with irritation, itchiness, and discomfort. The drops are administered directly from the little bottle, thanks to a nifty integrated dropper. Ideal for dry and itchy eyes, these drops can bring relief to your four-legged friend in no time.

Pros

  • Integrated dropper
  • Efficient zinc and vitamin C blend
  • Ideal for dry eyes
  • Soothes irritation

Cons

  • Takes a while before you can see the results

Customer’s Choice: Dr. Goodpet Eye-C All Natural Eye Drops

Check Price $12.95

Every dog can suffer from eye irritation and itchiness at least once in his life. In such cases, it is best to have efficient and reputable eye drops to solve the issue in no time. These Dr. Goodpet natural eye drops are just the thing. Great for relieving minor discomfort and eye irritation, they contain both zinc and vitamin C – a sure recipe for quick relief. This natural solution is easily applied as it contains a classic dropper that allows you to apply the drops exactly where you need to. A great aspect of this formula is that you can use it preventively! It is great as a protective tonic that is ideal for overall eye health. Great for both dogs and cats, it is one of the essential remedies owners should keep in their medicine cabinets!

Pros

  • Classic and easy-to-use dropper
  • Can be used preventively
  • Ideal for relieving irritation

Cons

  • Somewhat pricey

Best Eye Drops for Pink Eye for Dogs: Curicyn Pink Eye Solution

Check Price $13.93

Conjunctivitis – also known as pink eye – can be quite a nuisance in the lives of our dear pets. But this Curicyn formula is an efficient solution. Recommended by veterinarians, it is an extra strong formula that eliminates pink eye and its nasty symptoms. Without any toxic ingredients, steroids, or antibiotics, this is a soothing solution that helps reduce inflammation and discomfort. Sometimes, even a single treatment with this powerful solution is enough to put an end to pink eye. But if it becomes persistent, simply repeat the process. It is safe and easy to apply, acts quickly, and is totally pain-free. In the end, your doggo will be quite thankful – and free from pesky conjunctivitis!

Pros

  • One time application
  • Acts quickly
  • pH Balanced
  • Easily applied

Cons

  • Doesn’t work as well for more stubborn pink eye issues

Best Eye Drops for Eye Boogers for Dogs: All Pets Eye Wash Drops

Check Price $14.90

Ah, yes, the yucky eye boogers. These are a nuisance for all doggos – and their owners too. And they can be quite tricky to get rid of. But that is nothing some reliable eye drops can’t solve. This veterinary recommended solution contains a number of ingredients that are super efficient with this issue. These active ingredients include taurine, boric acid, chlorine ions, sodium chloride, and benzalkonium chloride. They efficiently remove clogging of the eyes, caused by dust, sand, and dirt, and will also relieve the puffiness and irritation of the eye. And when used on a regular basis it is great for reducing the risk of eye diseases. These drops are used once or twice per week, and the results should be quickly visible. Sodium chloride acts as an antiseptic to relieve possible inflammation, while taurine promotes the restoration of the retina and helps eye health in the long run. A fantastic and efficient formula!

Pros

  • Great for eye gunk and boogers
  • Restores eye health
  • Acts as an antiseptic
  • Relieves irritation
  • Large container

Cons

  • Could be challenging to apply

Best Eye Drops for Itching and Irritation for Dogs: Vetericyn Ophthalmic Gel

Check Price $22.95

Dogs can often suffer from irritation in the eyes and the constant itching that follows it. This special ophthalmic gel from Vetericyn is specifically formulated to soothe and help these issues. Safe to use on all animal species, it contains no toxic ingredients, no antibiotics, and no steroids. Due to this, it is both non-irritating and non-sensitizing and recommended by veterinarians. Ideal for soothing itching and irritation that is caused by dust, pollution, dryness, infections, and similar causes. No rinsing is required after application, and the results can be seen quite quickly. The gel is applied 1 to 2 times per day as needed, and will soon do its work. Simple, potent – and efficient.

Pros

  • Efficient formula that acts quickly
  • No toxic ingredients
  • Simple to use
  • Great for regular use

Cons

  • Applicator can be a bit big for small breeds

Best Eye Drops for Tear Stains for Dogs: I-LID ‘N LASH Vet Ocular Hygiene Cleanser

Check Price $16.49

Dog tear stains are a natural occurrence, but they still look ugly and can cause some issues in the long run. This unique hygiene cleanser is ideal for removing tear stains and keeping the eyes in their prime health. Designed as a daily cleanser for the eyelids, facial folds, and lashes, it can effectively remove any residue, secretions, and staining. After just 7 to 10 days of daily use, it can help new fur grow in – without any stains on it. It contains no bleach, no shampoo, no harmful chemicals, and no antibiotics so it is perfectly safe for your pooch to use. This formula also helps eliminate those nasty eye fold odors and also helps soothe and hydrate both the eyelids and the skin around them. The formula causes no stinging or irritation, and there is no need for rinsing-off. Best of all, the application is super simple, thanks to an integrated metered dose pump!

Pros

  • Metered dose pump
  • Soothes and hydrates
  • Quickly removes tear stains

Cons

  • Takes at least several days to see the results

Best Eye Drops for Cataracts for Dogs: Plush Paws Products Advanced Lanosterol Solution

Check Price $58.99

In the canine world, cataracts are a major issue that can come with advancing age. They can hamper vision and be quite difficult to deal with. But this professional and advanced formula from Plush Paws is ideal for fighting this common problem. It boasts a nanotechnology delivery system and combines a cataract-fighting power with the classic benefits of antioxidants – a mix that will quickly solve the eye issues your pet has. The formula helps with eye clarity, removes cloudiness, and alleviates symptoms of conjunctivitis, cataracts, blepharitis, dryness, secretions, itchiness, and keratitis. And all that is thanks to its main ingredients: lanosterol and N-Acetylcarnosine. These potent ingredients will make short work of the common eye issues, and can also work great as a preventive, too.

Pros

  • Potent and efficient formula
  • Nanotechnology delivery and antioxidant-based formula
  • Easy to apply
  • Can be used preventively

Cons

  • Runs out fast

Best Eye Drops for Dogs with Antibiotic: Terramycin Antibiotic Ointment

Check Price $22.25

For dogs with eye infections, antibiotics are a great and quick remedy. This ointment is specifically designed with special antibiotics that can be a rapid and powerful cure for irritations, infections, and itchiness of the eye. It is great not only for dogs, but for cats, horses, and other animals as well. Thanks to its professional formula, it can be helpful with conjunctivitis, pink eye, keratitis, blepharitis, corneal ulcers, bacterial inflammations, and many other eye-related problems. It is applied topically to the animal’s eye, 2 to 4 times per day, as needed. It is a quick, efficient, and powerful remedy that can put a definitive end to many eye problems that pester your four-legged friend.

Pros

  • Extra efficient
  • Very powerful formula
  • Treats a variety of issues
  • Good for both cats and dogs

Cons

  • Might be a bit too challenging to apply

Best Eye Drops for Dry Eyes for Dogs: I-DROP VET PLUS Lubricating Eye Drops

Check Price $16.20

Pros

  • Efficient and quick-reacting formula
  • Lubricates dry eyes all but instantly
  • Preventive role
  • Non-irritating

Cons

  • Very small container


What are Some Common Eye Problems in Dogs?


All dog owners have probably encountered some eye-related issues at least once in their dog’s lifetime. These issues can range from common and harmless, to rare and very harmful. Of course, with the common issues, many solutions are available, and eye drops for dogs are easily acquired and very useful. With the more serious issues, it is best to always seek help from your veterinarian – and if you’re unsure if your pet’s eye issues are mild or severe, opt for a consult first rather than going on a limb and using OTC eye drops for dogs.


Over-the-counter eye drops for dogs are great for a variety of common problems. The most common are itchiness, which is often caused by the dryness of the eyelids, accumulated dust, sand, particles, and dirt. Dryness can make your dog scratch profusely, and potentially damage the eye. With these lubricating eye drops, this is quickly resolved.


Eye gunk or eye boogers are another common issue and are caused by infrequent cleaning and accumulation of doggo tears. Left uncleaned, they are a big nuisance. Thanks to these eye drops and ointments, the boogers are gone and the undereye coat returns to its old glory.


Also possible are pink eye, cataracts, and similar issues, which can be treated with more powerful eye drops that contain efficient remedies recommended by vets. In most cases, it is your vet that will recommend you use them. And luckily, almost all of these eye drops for dogs are easy to apply and work in no time!



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Angela Vuckovic
Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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As dog parents, we all want to believe that our dog is the smartest, most incredible, most amazing dog out there. Right? But there is a select group of dogs whose talent and intelligence stand out above the rest. What makes these dogs so bright? That’s what a new study hopes to understand… Known as “Gifted Word Learner” (GWL) Dogs, these dogs display an impressive vocabulary by learning the names of dozens of their toys, with some learning as many as 125 toys by name! Interested in better understanding this phenomenon and what makes these dogs so naturally gifted, researchers at Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary set out to identify any commonalities between these pups. Their recent study, published in Scientific Reports on December 14, included 41 GWL dogs from nine countries: the US, the UK, Canada, Brazil, Norway, Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, and Hungary. They put out a call for ‘gifted’ dogs, asking owners to complete and submit a self-assessment following their detailed instructions and send the results in a video. Dogs that passed that phase were then given an online vocabulary assessment test to better assess their language skills. The owners were also given a questionnaire to provide a better understanding of each dog’s life experience. “In the questionnaire, we asked the owners about their dog’s life experience, their own experience in raising and training dogs, and about the process by which the dog came to learn the names of his/her toys,” explained Dr. Andrea Sommese, study co-author. Researchers discovered some interesting connections between the GWL dogs using all this information.

Can Stress or Anxiety Cause Diarrhea in Dogs?

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

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.

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.

“One-of-a-Kind” Cat With Two Noses Searches for Her Forever Home

As rescue cat parents and rescue advocates, we know firsthand that every cat has a unique story to tell. But some cats truly stand out and make their mark on the world. Nanny McPhee, a rescue cat who recently came into the care of the Cats Protection Warrington Adoption Centre. It’s not the way this sweet girl came into the shelter or her life before that has everyone talking… It’s a VERY unique physical feature – her nose, or “noses,” in her case! The sweet kitty lived in a loving home for the first four years of her life. Unfortunately, her previous owner had to make the difficult decision to contact a rescue due to health and financial reasons. When Nanny McPhee first arrived at the rescue, volunteers and rescue workers noticed a few things about the tuxedo kitty. First, she was a very gentle lady with a love for attention.“She has proven to be a gentle lady who adores a fuss and a cuddle, and we are hopeful her new-found fame will mean she will have no shortage of potential adopters,” shared shelter manager Lindsay Kerr. “She really does deserve a home where she can settle down and become the center of a loving family.” Second, they noticed she had a surprisingly large nose. It was this unique feature that led to her being named after the popular children’s character. But that signature sniffer was hiding an even bigger secret. A check-up with a local veterinarian revealed that the cat had not one but TWO noses, creating the appearance of one large snout. When asked about the discovery, senior field veterinary officer Fiona Brockbank explained that it was the first time they had seen this but that the cat’s unique appearance resulted from a congenital malformation. Other more common examples of this include cleft palates or cleft lips. These conditions can be inherited or caused by an incident during development in utero.

Pretty Plants that Will Stop Cats from Pooping in Your Garden

Whether you own a cat or neighboring felines like to frequent your backyard, chances are you have come across half-buried cat poop in your flower beds. Cat lover or not, you probably weren’t thrilled to discover these unsightly deposits in your garden.Although cat poop won’t harm your garden, it also won’t add much to the overall appeal of it either, especially if the cats decide to dig their own toilets in the middle of your flower patch. In addition to preserving the aesthetics of your garden, there are several other reasons you may want to stop cats from pooping in your backyard. Keeping cats away will ensure the garden stays clean and safe for young children to play in. Plus, it will help protect wild birds that visit your garden, especially if you have a bird feeder or two.Besides being unsightly, cat poop in the garden can carry a parasite, called Toxoplasma gondii, which is particularly dangerous to pregnant women and unborn babies. For this reason, it’s super important that you wear gloves when you clean cat poop from your garden. As an added precaution against nasty infections, always use gloves when gardening.Are you sick and tired of cats using your garden as their personal toilet? There are several things you can do to preserve your outdoor oasis that don’t include the use of cruel booby-traps or startling devices.All you have to do is buy the right plant - one that cats hate but will look great in your garden. Although technically a weed, the curry plant is one of the best plants to deter cats from pooping in your garden. Scientifically known as Helichrysum italicum, the curry plant is a small, bushy evergreen shrub with linear-shaped silver-gray leaves. The leaves have a strong odor, reminiscent of curry, that acts as a potent cat deterrent. When a cat brushes against a curry plant, its leaves release a strong odor that attacks a cat’s sense of smell. Plus, the curry plant also has a coarse texture that cats hate. Many gardeners agree that curry plants act as excellent cat deterrents saying that cats stopped pooping in their gardens after they planted curry plants. Since the curry plant is essentially a weed, plant it sparingly so it won’t spread and take up too much space. If, for whatever reason, you don’t want to plant curry plants in your garden, plant lavender instead. A popular ornamental plant, lavender has pretty purple flowers and a delicate and sweet smell with herbal undertones. It’s that delicate smell that will help keep cats away from your garden!Cats have more than 200 million odor sensors in their noses and anything that emits a strong smell, like lavender, will be off-putting. Luckily, lavender is easy to grow and you can plant it in any part of your garden or containers. This gives you the freedom to plant lavender exactly where the cats like to poop to deter them. Many cats also dislike the smell of rosemary, rue, pennyroyal, citronella, oregano, geraniums, lemon thyme, and coffee. Any of these plants can act as a natural barrier and discourage cats from entering your garden and using it as a toilet. Although there are other ways to deter cats from pooping in your backyard, planting plants is an entirely natural and non-toxic option that isn’t harmful to the cats or you. It’s also cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Scientists Finally Identify Mystery Dog Illness Sweeping America

If you are a dog owner in the United States, you have likely already seen the news reports about the mystery illness responsible for the deaths of several dogs, prompting veterinary professionals to caution pet parents about taking their pets out to public spaces. But we may finally be able to spot the light at the end of the tunnel… Dr. David Needle, pathology section chief at the College of Life Sciences and Agriculture at the University of New Hampshire, reported that scientists have finally identified the cause of the illness. While this doesn’t mean that life for our dogs can return to normal immediately, it does mean that they are one step closer to finding a cure and moving past this nightmare. The research article has yet to be published, but the team is sharing their initial findings to provide hope for pet parents and the veterinary community. The pathogen responsible for the mystery respiratory illness is described as “a funky bacterium.” “It’s smaller than a normal bacterium in its size and in the size of its genome,” explained Needle. “Long story short, it’s a weird bacterium that can be tough to find and sequence.” Searching for the cause of this illness wasn’t easy for researchers. Initially, there were no known bacterial, viral, or fungal pathogens, meaning they were searching blind. However, after testing 30 samples from New Hampshire, genetic material from an atypical bacterial species was discovered. The next step in understanding the cause of the illness and working towards a cure (and possible preventative) is to compare these findings to samples from dogs in other states to verify that it is, in fact, the same pathogen in all reported instances. States with possible cases of the disease include: CaliforniaColoradoFlorida Georgia IdahoIllinois IndianaMarylandMassachusettsNew HampshireOregonPennsylvania Rhode IslandVermontWashingtonOne challenge faced by veterinarians is the fact there is no test to confirm that all reported cases are, in fact, the same illness. What Are the Warning Signs?Common symptoms resemble respiratory infections like canine influenza and kennel cough, conditions usually seen in higher numbers at this time of year. Luckily for the human members of our family, there are currently no reports of the illness being transferred to humans. Veterinarians recommend watching out for the following symptoms: Coughing or sneezing WheezingDifficulty breathingNasal or eye dischargeDehydration Loss of appetite Weight loss FeverLethargyHow Can You Keep Your Dog Safe? Until a cure has been identified, dog parents are encouraged to focus on preventative measures. Ensure your dog’s vaccinations are current, protecting them against known respiratory problems. Avoid public spaces like dog parks, doggy daycare, and grooming establishments where dogs may be exposed to the illness. If you must go to a public space, steer clear of shared food and water dishes. Your dog will be just as happy to spend this time playing with you as they would with another dog!If you notice any signs of respiratory trouble or illness, don’t panic. Contact your veterinarian to share your concerns and make an appointment.

Should I Bathe My Dog During Winter?

Should your pet forego bubbly baths when the temperatures drop or should you bathe your pooch regularly all year long? There’s no universal answer to this question as situations can be wildly different from one pet or the other – how harsh is the climate you live in, would you bathe your pooch in a well-heated bathroom or not, how thick is their coat, and so on. All of these factors will influence the answer you’re given! To find out what’s the verdict for your own pooch when it comes to winter bathing, read on.Should I Bathe My Dog During Winter?The fact that it’s cold outside doesn’t have to mean your four-legged bestie has to smell funky for weeks on end – at least not in most cases. You can bathe your dog in the winter as long as you follow some ground rules that are meant to ensure your dog's well-being. Here’s what you need to know:#1 Don’t Do It Too OftenDogs don't need bathing as frequently as we do (duh), so if your dog isn't visibly dirty or smelly, you should be able to extend the time between baths to a couple of weeks. Overbathing can strip essential oils from your dog's skin, which can lead to dryness and irritation, so too much bathing isn’t good either. You can probably get through the winter with just one or two baths.#2 Keep The Water ToastyEnsure that the water you use for the bath is warm, not hot. Hot water can dry out your dog’s skin, so don’t be tempted to overly increase the water temperature just because the weather is cold outside. Of course, you should also make sure the bathing area is warm, and have towels ready to dry your dog quickly.#3 Fast Drying Is Key 

What to Know About Cat Reproduction

With a better understanding of feline reproduction, you can take steps to prevent unwanted litters, and you’ll know what to expect if you have an intact female or male.What does it mean when a queen (intact female cat) is in heat? How long does a pregnancy last? And why does it seem that cats are so good at reproducing? Below are the basics to help you get started.  There Are Multiple Stages in the Cat Heat CycleA cat’s estrous cycle, also known as her heat cycle, consists of multiple phases. Also, females are seasonally polyestrous, so they can go into heat more than once throughout the breeding season.The stages of a cat’s heat cycle are:Proestrus – During this phase, which will last about a day or two, you probably won’t notice any obvious changes in your cat.Estrus – During this phase, which lasts about a week on average, a female cat will behave in a way that lets males know that she wants to mate.Interestrus – If a cat doesn’t mate, she’ll go into this phase, which can also last about a week on average, until she goes into proestrus again. If a queen mates, ovulates, and becomes pregnant, she will enter diestrus.If a queen isn’t in a heat cycle at all, she’s in anestrus, which can last months.Cats Can Get Pregnant When They’re a Few Months OldCats become sexually mature around 6 months of age, on average, but it can happen even sooner than that. For example, a female can go into heat when she’s a mere four months old.This means that even kittens can mate and get pregnant. If you have intact male and female kittens, this is definitely something to be aware of. Talk to your veterinarian about the best time to spay or neuter your feline companions to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Cat Pregnancy Is Roughly Two Months LongA cat’s pregnancy can be shorter at 60 days or longer at 71 days. On average, a cat will give birth in about nine weeks, or 63 to 65 days. In other words, the pregnancy will be roughly two months long.On average, a cat will have four kittens, but she might have just one or she might have six or more. A queen’s age may affect the size of her litter—for example, a cat who’s pregnant for the first time is more likely to have a smaller litter, as is an older queen.After giving birth, a cat might go into heat again sooner than you think. It might even happen while her kittens are still nursing. So, if you’re caring for a mother and her litter, it’s important to prevent another pregnancy by keeping her safe indoors and away from intact males. Cats Are Induced OvulatorsWhat’s interesting about cats is that they’re induced ovulators. Put simply, when cats mate, the female ovulates, releasing eggs from her ovaries. And since the eggs are released with mating, it times out in a way that boosts the odds of pregnancy.A queen typically needs to mate multiple times before eggs are released, and she could mate with more than one male while she’s in heat.  A Litter of Kittens Can Have Different FathersAs mentioned above, a queen will mate more than once while she’s in heat. Well, another interesting fact about cats is that they can mate with more than one male while they’re in heat, so they could end up with kittens that have different fathers.In other words, a single litter of kittens could have two or more fathers. This is known as superfecundation.There Are Several Signs of Pregnancy in CatsHow can you tell if a cat is pregnant? Even though there are going to be several signs as the fetuses develop, you might not notice anything right away.You might first notice the queen’s nipples becoming more obvious. This is followed by weight gain that will eventually cause her belly to be big and round. Changes in behavior are also often seen in pregnant cats. Her appetite will increase, she may become more needy and affectionate, and she’ll look for a nest where she can give birth safely and comfortably.If you are caring for a pregnant cat, consider getting a product like the Sport Pet Pop Open Pet Kennel, which features two entryways, has a waterproof bottom, and comes with a removable, machine washable pad. She might view this as the perfect nesting box, and you’ll feel good knowing she’ll be secure in there with her kittens.

Latest Studies Find That Aging in Dogs Can Mirror Aging in Humans

In the United States alone, pet owners spend around $1,500 a year on  veterinary care. To be precise, people tend to spend more on dogs than on any other pets – up to 41% of Americans spend $2,000 per year caring about their cherished canine friends. Of course, this is all in the hopes that their pet reaches their senior age with minimal issues and that they get to spend as many years enjoying their company. While providing veterinary care is an important factor that contributes to a pet’s longevity, it’s not always easy to determine when a certain procedure or treatment will help prolong your pet’s life and not their suffering. By comparing the concept they labeled “frailty” in humans and in dogs, a team of researchers hopes that they can help owners make better decisions about their pet’s care.Scientists behind the “ Dog Aging Project” are studying how they could improve your dog’s quality of life for many years to come. The team from the University of Washington is conducting extensive research, based on dogs of all ages, in their attempts to determine how their quality of life is impacted as they age. Dr. Anya Gambino, one of the chief veterinarians working on the project, says: “There's a quantity of life. It's amazing to have a long life, but you always want to have quality of life." The team’s UW Biologist and the Co-Director of the Project, Daniel Promislow, quickly drew a parallel with humans. "Dogs get the same kinds of diseases that humans get. They also show the same kinds of frailty that we see in humans," he said.The so-called “frailty” of dogs, which is the object of the study, is already studied in humans. Dr. Promislow firmly believes that through this study, researchers can gain a much better understanding of life expectancies in dogs and potential disease risks as well. "We hope we'll be able to figure out the relationship between frailty and the disease," Promislow says. But what exactly is this “frailty”? Researchers describe it as "a complex syndrome associated with aging. Because it considers physical, mental and emotional changes associated with aging, it is a better indicator of the body’s condition and overall health than age alone.""If we can do that, we can help vets treat dogs earlier before those diseases are apparent and can also help dogs enjoy their later years to the best degree possible," said Promislow.The study is on a very grand scale and already enrolls over 46,000 dogs across the United States. What is best, researchers believe that humans can also benefit from this extensive study. "The other thing about aging in dogs is that aging in dogs looks a lot like aging in people," said Promislow. "What we learn about aging in dogs is going to help us learn about aging in people, as well."Hopefully, this would mean that many more dogs would get a chance to enjoy their golden years, right by their owner's side. "They provide us with so much unconditional love, joy, and humor," said Dr. Gambino. "We can do something for them that gives them the best chance for living a very happy life with us."

New Study Reveals More About How Cats Purr

Pet parents love hearing their cats purr while in a relaxed and blissful state, and it’s believed that a kitty’s purr could be healing, too. But, no matter how long you’ve shared your home with felines, you might still wonder how your furry friend is able to make such a unique sound. New research now sheds some more light on how cats purr, so people can learn even more about their feline companions.

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