Top 5 Toys That Truly Make Your Dog Happy

4 Things Families Should Discuss Before Bringing a New Pet Home

Bringing a new pet into your home is exciting. There’s nothing quite like the joy of a wagging tail or the purr of a happy cat. But before you rush out to the shelter or breeder, it’s important for the whole family to have a real conversation about what this new addition means. Pets bring love, but they also bring responsibility, time, and a bit of chaos. Here are four things every family should talk through before saying yes to a new furry (or feathery, or scaly) friend.

Accident Proof Your Dog Walks Now with These Simple Leash Accessories

We don’t head out on a walk with our pups looking for danger, but the truth is that the unexpected happens. It could be a sudden, deep cut on your dog’s paw from stepping on broken glass, a tick burrowed deep into your dog’s skin, or the catastrophic moment a cheap leash clip snaps when a squirrel darts across your path. In that split second of panic, you’ll realize that preparedness isn’t overkill. Better still, let’s ensure you’re prepared without having to face the challenges.Your dog’s leash plays a key role on walks, and I’m not just referring to keeping them safely tethered. It’s your “base camp,” with the ability to carry everything you need from emergency first-aid to critical safety gear right there, immediately accessible.In this article, I’m going to talk about the non-negotiable, clip-on accessories that I carry on every walk. These are items that tackle big problems and help me keep my dogs safe. Additionally, I’ll share some leash styles that are better suited to carry this gear and help make your next walk that much safer. The goal is simple: to make sure you’re ready for anything, so you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying your time together.“Clip-and-Go” Essentials When you think about leash preparedness, consider the items you carry every day. Just as you don’t leave the house without your keys, wallet, and phone, your dog’s leash needs its own collection of essential tools. These are small, lightweight accessories that clip directly onto a D-ring or an accessory loop, ensuring they are with you on every single walk. After all, an emergency doesn’t check your calendar and schedule itself when it’s convenient. The First-Aid TrioThe most critical moments on any dog-friendly outing are when your pup sustains a minor injury or encounters something potentially hazardous to their health. The following three items on your leash can help you provide immediate care and stabilize the situation until you can get home or reach your veterinarian. The Tick Remover Tool Ticks are more than just a nuisance; they are carriers of serious diseases that could put your pup at risk. If you spot a tick while out and about, the priority is to remove it quickly, completely, and safely. Trying to pinch or squeeze a tick with your fingers can cause the tick to regurgitate infected fluids back into your dog’s bloodstream, and household tweezers can easily be lost in your pocket. Instead, consider carrying a leash-friendly tick remover. Look for the small, v-notched plastic tools or specialized metal tick removers designed for this purpose, like the classic Tick Key. These tools easily slide under the tick and allow you to lift it out with a simple twist or pull. It makes it easier to ensure the entire head is removed, reducing the risk of further complications. Because these tools are so small and lightweight, attaching one directly to your leash with a mini-carabiner means you never have to scramble for one. Paw and Wound Care Mini-KitWhether it’s a sharp rock on the trail or an unseen piece of broken glass on the sidewalk, a paw injury is one of the most common mid-walk incidents. My boy Lucifer suffered a small cut on his foot on a recent hike, and we don’t even know the cause. When faced with a cut, your role as a loving pet parent is to provide temporary stabilization. The priority is to stop the bleeding, keep the wound clean until you return home, and prevent your dog from licking it or further aggravating it. This, of course, requires some key first-aid supplies. You don’t need a full trauma kit, just a compact, sealed tube or case small enough to clip to the leash. I use a small zippered treat pouch for ours. In it, we keep two small, sterile gauze pads (for cleaning and coverage), a small roll of self-adhering vet wrap, a couple of antiseptic wipes, and a single disposable bootie, like those from PawZ, to keep any wounds or bandages dry.Emergency MuzzleThis is perhaps the most misunderstood piece of safety gear, yet it can make all the difference in an emergency. Even the sweetest, most friendly dog can react to intense pain or overwhelming fear by biting. For this reason, I recommend all dog parents keep some form of muzzle on hand. If your dog is in pain, quickly putting a muzzle on them lets you examine and treat the injury without risking yourself or an innocent passerby.In most cases, a simple snout loop or lightweight, fabric muzzle clipped to your leash setup would be enough. If you do have a dog that is a little “spicy,” a more sturdy muzzle (we use a vinyl muzzle from Mia’s Muzzles for my fear-reactive boy) may be necessary. Don’t forget to take time to do muzzle training in advance, so you aren’t adding more stress to an already stressful situation by throwing on a muzzle they aren’t accustomed to. Safety, Visibility, and Comfort GearBeyond the immediate medical needs, a good preparedness system addresses ongoing safety and the simple necessities your dog may need during your walk.LED Safety Light or Blinker If your walks extend into the early morning or evening, visibility is an essential consideration. Accidents often happen because a driver simply doesn’t see you or your dog until it’s too late. Consider clipping a small, bright, USB-rechargeable clip-on LED light to your leash. These lights offer flashing or steady modes. Even better, attach one to the leash to make yourself visible, and another to your dog’s collar or harness. Make it part of your routine to check the battery before every low-light walk. Hydration and Comfort Essentials Even a short walk can lead to dehydration, especially in warmer weather or for an energetic dog. A few ounces of water can make a huge difference for your dog. If you’re hiking in town where you know there are accessible water fountains, or are carrying water in your backpack, all you’ll need is a collapsible water bowl. The most common are the silicone dishes that fold up flat and usually come equipped with a small carabiner to clip directly to your leash or backpack. Personally, I love the packable design of the HydraPak Rover Dog Bowl. For those who prefer hiking in more rural areas without potable water sources, you may prefer to carry a travel-friendly dog water bottle with a built-in bowl, like the Lesotc Portable Dog Water Bottle. Poop Bag DispenserWhile this might seem like a given, I feel like I can’t make this list without stressing the importance of a poop bag dispenser. More importantly, a reliable dispenser that attaches securely to your leash. Some high-end dispensers also have a feature that holds a used, tied-off bag until you reach a garbage to dispose of it, keeping your hands free and clean. Alternatively, they can be purchased separately to add to your gear.

Pet Passports Are a Real Thing!

If you plan to travel outside of North America with your best buddy, this super-convenient travel document eliminates any roadbumps.

3 Things That Might Be Causing Your Dog To Dig Up Your Yard

If you’re a dog owner who’s ever walked outside to find craters scattered across your lawn, you’re not alone. Digging is a natural behavior for dogs, but it can quickly become frustrating. Before you can put a stop to the behavior, it helps to understand why your dog might be digging. Here are three of the most common reasons.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

How to Stop Your Puppy from Digging Up Your Yard

Digging comes naturally to puppies. It’s part curiosity, part instinct, and sometimes just a way to burn off energy. While a little dirt on their paws might be cute, constant digging can quickly turn your yard into a mess. The good news? With the right strategies, you can redirect your pup’s digging habit into healthier, yard-friendly behavior.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

The Best Hacks for Getting a Sick Dog to Eat

What is Scent Work for Dogs?

Are you looking for new activities and events to enjoy with your pup? If so, you may want to explore the world of scent work! It’s a fun and engaging activity that allows your dog to tap into their natural abilities. It’s a great opportunity to build your bond and boost confidence through a rewarding game. If you really love it, there are even opportunities to get involved with scent work on a competitive level!In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to get started in scent work today, including a better understanding of what scent work involves, the benefits of this game for your dog, and step-by-step instructions to get started with this activity in your own home. What are you waiting for?What Is Scent Work? To truly appreciate scent work and the benefits it offers for your dog, we first need to understand the basics. This starts with the instrument at its core: a dog’s nose. The Master Tool That Is Your Dog’s Nose Your dog’s nose is more than just an adorable boopable button; it’s a masterpiece of evolution that helps them navigate the world around them. Its power is almost unbelievable! While humans have approximately 5 million scent receptors, our dogs possess 125 million to 300 million, depending on the breed. This means they can experience a world of smells that is far more detailed than anything we can even begin to imagine. They detect odors at concentrations that aren’t even noticeable to us. In addition to the number of scent receptors, the structure of your dog’s nose improves their powerful smelling abilities. When they breathe in, a fold of tissues separates the air into two distinct pathways: one for breathing and one exclusively for those receptors to detect smells. These two pathways allow them to breathe and analyze scents at the same time. They also have a specialized organ called a “vomeronasal organ” (or Jacobson’s organ) at the roof of their mouth, which detects specific scents like pheromones and other chemical signals. When all of this works together, dogs can discriminate and identify individual odors even when they are mixed together with many others. Imagine walking into a busy kitchen filled with the smells of coffee, toast, and bacon. A human nose might just smell “breakfast.” Your dog’s nose, however, can identify the coffee, the specific type of bread, and even differentiate between bacon and sausage. This incredible ability is why scent work is why they are so skilled at detecting specific substances. The Basics of Scent WorkScent work is an activity that leverages this incredible power of smell by turning it into a structured search game. At the heart of scent work is the “target odor.” This is the specific scent that your dog is trained to find. Traditional scent work often focuses on essential oils like birch, anise, or clove, diluted to a specific (and safe to smell) concentration. However, for home-based fun, a target odor can be anything from a high-value treat or specific toy to a unique household item like your car keys. The key is that the dog learns to associate this particular scent with a reward. It’s also important to note that scent doesn’t just sit still; it moves. As air moves through or over a hidden scent source, it can create a “scent cone” or “plume,” a trail of odor that disperses into the surrounding environment. Dogs are masters at finding and navigating these plums, following the scent back to the source. They learn to identify the strongest point of the scent, which leads them directly to the hidden item. An important concept to understand in scent work is the difference between the actual source of the smell (where the target odor or item is located) and contamination (residual scent left behind as the item was moved or handled). Through their training, dogs learn to indicate only at the source, ignoring the weaker contamination, but this precision takes time and practice. At its roots, scent work is a search game. You hide the target odor, and your dog uses their nose to find it. When they do so successfully, they are rewarded. This simple concept is the foundation of all scent work, from casual home activities to competitive trials. The joy for your dog comes from the hunt and the reward. For the handler, the joy comes from watching your dog engage in an activity that is fun and naturally fulfilling. The Benefits of Scent Work for Your Dog Scent work is a great way to keep your dog busy (we all know how important that is, especially if you have a young, active puppy or a high-energy dog at home). But it’s more than that! It impacts their mental, emotional, and even physical well-being, helping to give them the best possible quality of life. Here are some of the benefits it offers: Mental Stimulation and Enrichment Scent work is often described as a “brain game” because it requires your dog to use their mental abilities, including problem-solving, concentration, decision-making, and memory. Unlike physical exercise, which tires the body, scent work is a form of mental enrichment that tires the mind out in a highly satisfying way. In fact, a dog who has spent 15-20 minutes intensely searching for scents will often be as tired, if not more so, than a dog that has had a long walk! Many common behavioral problems people face with their dogs, such as destructive chewing, excessive barking, or digging, can be traced back to boredom and a lack of appropriate outlets for their pent-up mental and physical energy. Scent work gives your dog a constructive and engaging activity to channel their energy into, which goes a long way in preventing these unwanted behaviors.

How Can I Make My Home Safe for a Blind Dog?

When faced with the news that our best friend is blind or losing their vision, it’s natural to be concerned or even feel overwhelmed. You may worry about how they’ll navigate their world, find their food, or even enjoy their daily routines. However, we have good news. Many blind or visually impaired dogs live long, happy, confident lives.Vision loss doesn’t change your dog’s ability to be truly happy; it just shifts how they experience the world, relying more on their other incredible senses. In this article, I’ll share how you can set up your home in a way that will keep your blind or visually impaired safe while also boosting their independence and overall well-being. With these tips, you’ll be able to create a space that will help your dog thrive!Blind from Birth vs. Vision Loss Later in LifeBefore making any significant modifications to your home, it’s helpful to understand your dog’s journey. After all, the needs of a dog who has always been blind can differ significantly from those of one who is losing their vision later in life. While many adaptations will benefit all blind dogs, recognizing your dog’s unique needs and challenges will help you tailor your efforts to provide the best support. Despite the differences in these two experiences, I want to stress that all blind dogs can lead happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. They may look a little different as you make adjustments with their safety and comfort in mind, but it is possible!The “Always Blind” Dog Dogs born without sight or who lose it early in life (as a young puppy) often adapt naturally as they grow. Why? Navigating the world without their vision is their normal. If they have never experienced sight, they don’t miss it and don’t need to change how they approach their daily routine. They grow up relying more heavily on their sense of smell, hearing, and touch to learn about and explore their surroundings. Any training and obedience is tackled with this lack of sight in mind, meaning they don’t have to relearn their basic commands or how to communicate with their people. Instead, they learn to follow clear verbal cues confidently. Like all dogs, they benefit from a steady and predictable routine. The confidence of an “always blind” dog largely stems from never knowing anything different, learning how to adjust to their environment early, and relying on consistent routines. The “Losing Vision” DogVision loss later in life can be more challenging to navigate, both for the dog and the dog parent. The reason is that your dog will now have to transition to a new normal, making many changes to the routine they are used to. Vision loss can impact some of the most basic aspects of a dog’s daily life. Vision loss can be gradual, due to conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) or cataracts, or sudden, as in some cases of glaucoma or Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome (SARDS). This transition can cause confusion, anxiety, fear, or even signs of depression as your dog’s world begins to change. They may bump into familiar objects, become hesitant to move, or seem disoriented in the home where they were once comfortable. You will need to offer your dog patience and reassurance as you slowly introduce new ways of navigating their day-to-day life. This includes adjustments to your routine, as well as to your home, to accommodate your dog’s changing needs. They will need your support as they grieve the loss of their sight and develop new coping mechanisms. Your veterinarian is also an essential part of this journey. They will work to identify the cause of the vision loss, explore any potential treatments, and help you manage any pain or discomfort that may be associated with it.Creating a Safe Home Environment One of the most important considerations in giving your blind dog a high-quality life is providing them with a safe, comfortable, and predictable home environment. You can help them learn how to move with confidence and independence by assisting them to create a mental map of the space with consistent sensory input (through touch, scent, and sounds). Consistency for Success A fundamental rule for living with a blind dog is never to move furniture. Once they have built a detailed mental map of the home, they will use it to navigate furniture, walls, and other obstacles. They memorize the layout and learn how to move through it safely. Every time you move a piece of furniture, you disrupt this map, causing confusion, anxiety, and potential bumps or injuries. Explain the importance of this consistency to all family members. Ensuring everyone is on the same page will help prevent miscommunications and unnecessary challenges. If you need to move something, create a plan to transition your dog safely and smoothly. Temporarily guide your dog around the new placement until they have remapped the space and can confidently navigate the new layout on their own. For significant changes, consider temporarily restricting your dog’s access to a smaller, familiar area and gradually expanding their access as they become familiar with the space. Navigating StairsStairs are one of the most significant safety risks for blind dogs. Falling down a flight of stairs can cause a serious injury. But unlike their sighted counterparts, they can’t see where that first step begins. Luckily, there are ways to limit your dog’s access and keep them safe. Installing a sturdy, securely mounted safety gate at the top and bottom of all staircases ensures they will only navigate that challenge when you’re by their side to help. Pay careful attention to the details of the gates you are considering. You need to choose one that’s tall enough that your dog can’t jump over and strong enough to hold up to their weight, even if they lean against them. If you have elevated areas within your home (such as a bed or couch) that your dog needs to navigate, or outdoor steps that cannot be avoided, a ramp can be a game changer. You can build large ramps for bigger outdoor staircases or purchase a reliable ramp designed for use with furniture. Introduce ramps slowly and with positive reinforcement, helping your dog learn how to carefully move up and down them without slipping off the side. If they are struggling, consider installing a rail to guide their movement.

More than Half of Pet Owners are Skipping Veterinary Care

Both cat and dog owners have started to skip necessary veterinary care for their pets. A national survey has found that more than half of pet owners, including those in high-earning households, have skipped necessary veterinary care or declined recommended treatment mainly because of the cost.According to the survey, conducted by PetSmart Charities and Gallup, seven in 10 owners who skipped or declined care listed cost as the main reason, saying they couldn’t afford the treatment or didn’t think it was worth the cost. What’s worrisome is that the results were surprisingly similar across all income levels. “There’s a narrative that says that this only affects folks in the bottom part of the income spectrum,” said PetSmart Charities President Aimee Gilbreath. “But it’s all across the spectrum. That surprised me - and it worries me. If folks in the top half are struggling to afford primary vet care, who can afford vet care now?”The State of Pet Care report found that vet care costs in the U.S. have risen more than 60% since 2014, forcing many pet parents to decline recommended treatments for their pets.“At least 60% of households have a pet, and people love them as family members,” said Gilbreath. “We don’t think they should be a luxury item. They are good for people’s mental, physical, and emotional health, and if it becomes unaffordable, that’s really a sad situation.” The survey of 2,498 adults owning at least one cat or dog discovered that 52% of pet owners have skipped or declined veterinary care at some point in the past. The most commonly declined veterinary services were diagnostic procedures (22%), vaccinations (18%), and elective surgeries (16%). However, 11% admitted they have declined recommended medication, and 7% said they have refused life-saving surgeries. Of those who declined care, 71% of owners listed cost as the main reason. Although that response was the highest among owners with a household income between $36,000 and $60,000, nearly two-thirds of those earning $90,000 or more said the same. Researchers found that for those with higher incomes, declining care wasn’t just a matter of affordability. Only a third of owners earning $90,000 or more said they couldn’t afford the cost, compared to 44% of owners who said the cost wasn’t worth it. According to Gilbreath, the dramatic increase in veterinary costs over a short time period is to blame. “We’re in a time when families are really stretched, and unexpected expenses like a big vet bill are hard to manage,” she added.As a result, animal shelters across the country are experiencing an influx of pet owners surrendering their pets due to their inability to afford veterinary care. While financial troubles are forcing many pet parents to decline veterinary care, 73% of parents said they weren’t presented with more affordable options. The survey found that providing payment plan options would make a huge difference for many pet owners. More than half of the respondents said they couldn’t afford to spend more than $1,000 if their pet had a life-threatening condition. But if given a one-year, no-interest option, most said that would double what they could pay. “We would love to see options like 18-month, interest-free financing,” said Gilbreath. “More vets are starting to offer options, but it’s relatively new.”Owners facing financial constraints should talk with their vets about possible treatment alternatives or payment options that meet their needs. Don’t forget that affordable veterinary care is often available through community non-profit organizations and animal shelters.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Bam Bam, the Stolen Support Dog, Reunited with Owner After 2 Months

It’s taken more than two months, but Bam Bam the service dog has been reunited with his family in Chicago. His owner, Angel Santiago, is 58 years old and legally blind, and desperately searched for his missing pooch ever since he went missing. Here are the details.

5 Fun Facts About Rabbits You Might Not Know

Rabbits are far more interesting than many people realize. Beyond their soft fur and twitching noses, rabbits have unique behaviors and surprising traits that make them truly special companions. Here are five fun facts about pet rabbits you might not know. 

Experts Warn That Back-to-School Can Cause Depression in Pets

It’s back-to-school season again, and that means a lot of changes in your family’s routine. But have you considered how these changes can affect your pets? According to experts, it turns out that pets can actually experience depression when the kids start a new school year and they find that they aren’t getting as much attention as they did over the summer break.

Viral Post About a “Criminal” Cat Stole the Internet’s Heart

Recently, a seemingly ordinary rescue mission in Bangkok took a hilarious turn, capturing the hearts of animal lovers around the globe. It’s a reminder that even the best intentions can sometimes lead to chaos (of the best kind). Nub Tang, a lost American Shorthair cat wearing a pink harness, was found by a kind-hearted stranger and brought to the local police station in the hope of reuniting her with her family. Among the officers working that day was Officer Da Parinda Pakeesuk, a Thai police officer known for rescuing stray animals. Shortly after arriving at the station, she started scratching and biting several officers, leading to her arrest. “This cat has been charged with assaulting police officers and is about to be detained,” Officer Pakeesuk wrote on Facebook in the first of several comical posts. “Please share this post so her owner can come and bail her out.” The officers went on to take the wandering feline through the whole arrest process, complete with a mugshot, a fictitious police report, and even tiny paw prints to go on her record. The police report, including a statement from Nub Tang herself, stated, “I was just hungry. I didn’t mean to bite anyone.” The now-infamous mugshot went on to be the most viral of Officer Pakeesuk’s posts, bringing laughter to cat lovers everywhere. During her stay, the department ensured that Nub Tang had the best of everything, including the best cat food, litter, and toys. She also enjoyed plenty of pets and scritches from the officers on duty.

Simple Tricks to Get Your Pet to Take Their Meds

Let’s face it, for most pet parents, the moment the veterinarian prescribes medication for your beloved dog or cat, a little voice inside you whispers (or screams), “Oh no!” You’re not alone! Many of us (myself included, in the past) have engaged in a strategic chase around the living room, a tiny pill clutched in our hand. But rest assured, it doesn’t have to be that difficult. While it can feel like navigating an impossible challenge, there are effective and less stressful ways to help your pets take their medicine, whether it comes in the form of a pill, a liquid, or a powder. In this post, I am going to share some simple tricks and techniques I have learned that have proven to be effective in my house. By mastering these tricks, you can set yourself up for success, making prioritizing your pet’s health and well-being easier than ever. Why Is Giving Medication to a Pet So Challenging?Have you ever wondered why your sweet and loving best friend suddenly becomes a master of evasion the moment medication comes into the picture? There are several reasons why our pets put up such a fight. Taste and Smell: Many medications simply don’t taste or smell very good to our pets. Some can even be quite bitter or have an unfamiliar smell that triggers a natural dislike and aversion. Instincts: Our pets are descendants of their wild ancestors, who were hardwired with instincts to help them survive. For this reason, they are naturally wary of anything new, different, or unusual in their routine, especially something offered by hand. Negative Past Experiences: If your pet has had a negative experience with medications in the past, such as force or discomfort, this can create a lasting association of fear and resistance with the taking of medication in general. Stress and Anxiety: The act of being handled or restrained can trigger feelings of stress and anxiety in some animals, making them even less likely to cooperate. Side Effects: It’s important to remember that some medications may cause physical discomfort or side effects. If this is the case, it can make them more reluctant to take that medication again (understandably). As pet parents, dealing with this resistance can be physically and emotionally draining. We want to help our pets feel better, and it can be disheartening when those efforts are met with struggle or upset. But putting ourselves in their shoes for a moment can help us identify the reason why they are so reluctant to take their medications, helping us overcome these hurdles. Setting Yourself Up for Success The process of effectively giving your pet medication starts with careful preparation. Think of it like laying the groundwork for an overall smoother experience. Here are a few things to consider: Communication with Your Vet Before you even attempt to give your pet their medication, make sure you clearly understand your vet's instructions. This includes asking the following questions: Dosage: What is the exact amount of medication you are supposed to give your pet each time?Frequency: How often must the medication be given throughout the day?Timing: Does the medication need to be given at a specific time? Does it need to be given with food or on an empty stomach? If you have multiple medications, can they be given at the same time? Don’t hesitate to ask your vet what formulations and options are available. Every pet is different, and you may find that yours is more accepting of one form of medication than another. For example, there may be a flavored liquid instead of a pill, or even alternatives to the medication altogether. Ask about any side effects your pet may experience and how best to manage them. Knowing this in advance can help you get relief for your pet far quicker, as you can respond immediately versus trying to determine if the side effect is, in fact, associated with the medication and how to address it. Most importantly, remember this golden rule: never change the dosage or stop giving medication without discussing it with your vet (unless, of course, you are facing a severe reaction). Some medicines, like antibiotics, must be given for a set length of time to be effective. Stopping a medication because your pet appears to be getting better could set them back long-term. Be Calm and OrganizedThe environment and your energy will both play a significant role in your pet’s willingness to cooperate. Choose a calm, quiet, and familiar space in your home where your pet will feel safe and secure. Where possible, try to avoid any distractions or interruptions. Before introducing your pet into the equation, take time to gather all the needed supplies. This includes the medication itself, any treats you plan to use, and applicators like oral syringes if required. Having all of these items within reach will keep the process as quick and efficient as possible, helping to reduce your pet’s stress. When gathering them for medication time, avoid approaching them in a rushed or stressed manner, as they will likely pick up on your emotions. Instead, try to stay calm and offer a reassuring presence to calm any fears or concerns they may have. The Art of PillingWhen it comes to giving your pet pills, the goal is to make the process as stress-free and palatable as possible. Luckily, there are several clever strategies you can use to make the process quicker and easier for everyone involved. The Pill Pocket One of the most popular and often successful tricks is using “pill pockets.” These are commercially available treats designed with a hollow center to conceal a pill. The idea being that the pet is so excited to take the treat that they don’t even notice they are taking a pill at the same time. There are many different brands and flavors available, depending on your pet’s preferences, such as the Presidio Pill Buddy Naturals, which comes in a tempting “Tender Grilled Duck” flavor, or the popular salmon flavour of Greenies Feline Pill Pockets. An interesting product, and a spin on the “pill pocket” approach, that we have been using recently in our house is the Vetality Twist + Lick Simpill Gel. This looks almost like a deodorant container, but a flavored gel comes up when you twist the bottom. You simply place the pills in the gel and allow your dog to help themselves. It comes in beef, chicken, and peanut butter. Hiding in FoodAnother common tactic is to hide the pill within a small amount of a soft, highly palatable food. Common choices include tiny pieces of cooked chicken or turkey, a small cube of cheese, a dab of tuna (in water, not oil), or a smear of xylitol-free peanut butter. But don’t overdo it. The goal here is to use only a small amount of the food so you can guarantee that your pet eats the entire medicated portion in one go and doesn’t just eat around the pill. I recommend not hiding pills in your pet’s regular food bowl, especially if they are fighting the pilling process. Otherwise, you may create a negative association with their regular food, leading to them turning their nose up at the usual dinners. One useful trick that helps to leave your pet with a positive feeling about the process is to deliver the medicated food in a “treat sandwich” approach. First, give them a piece of the food entirely unmedicated, then a piece containing the pill, and finally another plain piece as a reward.

What’s the Best Litter for My Pet Rat?

Choosing the right litter for your pet rat is more important than it might seem. A good litter not only keeps their cage clean and odor-free, but also plays a big role in your rat’s comfort, health, and overall well-being.Rats are clean, intelligent animals, and their habitat needs to reflect that. The type of bedding or litter you choose will affect everything from air quality to how much your rat enjoys digging and nesting - so it’s worth getting right.Let’s break down the best (and worst) litter options, and how to make the best choice for your furry companion.Why Litter MattersLitter serves several key functions in your rat’s enclosure:Absorbs urine and controls odorKeeps the cage cleaner and easier to maintainEncourages natural behaviors like digging and burrowingSupports respiratory health by minimizing dust and irritantsBecause rats have sensitive lungs and are prone to respiratory issues, choosing a safe, low-dust, non-toxic litter is essential - not optional.Best Litter Options for Pet Rats1. Paper-Based Bedding

How Often Should I Clean My Fish Tank?

Keeping your fish tank clean is one of the most important things you can do for the health and happiness of your aquatic pets. A clean tank supports a stable environment, prevents waste buildup, and helps keep your fish active, stress-free, and less prone to disease. But how often should you actually clean your tank? The answer depends on several factors - like tank size, the number and type of fish, and whether it’s a freshwater or saltwater setup. Let’s break it down.Why Cleaning MattersFish naturally produce waste, and uneaten food, plant debris, and other organic matter contribute to rising levels of ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates - substances that can harm your fish if left unchecked. While a good filter helps manage this waste, it can’t do everything alone. That’s where routine cleaning comes in.There are two main types of tank maintenance:Routine maintenance, which keeps things running smoothly week to weekDeep cleaning, which is more thorough but done less frequentlyBoth are essential for keeping the ecosystem balanced and your fish thriving.Weekly Tasks: Your Regular Cleaning RoutineMost tanks benefit from a light cleaning once a week. The key task here is a partial water change - typically about 10% to 25% of the total tank volume. This helps remove harmful buildup while restoring beneficial minerals.During your weekly routine, aim to: Vacuum the gravel to remove uneaten food and wasteReplace the siphoned water with fresh, dechlorinated water at the correct temperatureTest the water for pH, ammonia, nitrites, and nitratesWipe down the glass inside the tank to remove algaeCheck the filter to ensure it’s running smoothlyObserve your fish for any signs of illness or odd behaviorThese small but consistent steps help prevent larger issues down the line.

Survey Reveals Cats and Dogs Are More Comforting than Spouses

If you would rather choose to hug your pet than spend time with your partner after a stressful day, you aren’t alone. A new global survey of 30,000 pet owners across 20 countries found that the majority of pet parents (58%) prefer to spend time with their pet when feeling stressed. Data showed that only 32% of pet owners would prefer to spend time with their partners, 23% with family, and only 18% of owners said they would choose to hug their friends or children when stressed.YouGov conducted the new survey on behalf of Mars Petcare and Calm, a leading mental health company. The survey also found that more than half of pet parents (56%) stated that their pets provide company without needing to talk during stressful times. Meanwhile, almost a quarter of pet parents (23%) said their pet creates an atmosphere for them to express worries and concerns without needing a reply.A large majority (84%) of pet owners found the mere presence of their pets relaxing, providing a sense of calm that doesn’t require words. “While we love our pets, we often don’t realize how much they give back,” said Dr. Tammie King, a senior research manager at Waltham Petcare Science Institute. “Reframing your pet’s daily ‘interruptions’ as loving reminders to pause, breathe, and be present can be a powerful wellness tool. Research shows that touch-based pet interactions can boost oxytocin levels in humans,” she said.“The findings of this survey will help more people reflect on and acknowledge the little well-being moments pets nudge us towards on a daily basis.” The survey also revealed how our pets’ simple behaviors can push us towards better well-being habits. Almost eight of ten surveyed pet parents said their pet encourages them to pause and take a break from work, chores, or tasks. Meanwhile, 50% said this happens daily. A majority of pet parents (73%) said their pet reminds them to stop overthinking or worrying, thus helping them feel calmer and more relaxed. The same percentage of pet owners stated that their pet inspires them to spend time outdoors. Even more pet owners (77%) said that their pet inspires them to turn off screens. For half, this is a daily reminder to unplug and unwind from constant scrolling. “We know that small, intentional moments of calm can have a big impact on our overall well-being, and our pets have an incredible way of guiding us there. A quick dog walk, or cat cuddle at our desk when they stroll in front of the screen, can provide a simple moment to reset and recharge,” said Dr. Chris Mosunic, Chief Clinical Officer at Calm. “We’re proud to partner with Mars and bring this data to the forefront to highlight the potential of our bond with pets and help more people discover the wonderful well-being benefits our relationship with pets can bring.”This survey is the first-of-its-kind partnership between Mars and Calm, which strives to explore and celebrate the deep connection between people and pets. The two companies have teamed up to create new content that supports well-being while strengthening the bond you have with your pet.The new Mars and Calm content collection features a series of pet-inspired content to help you relax and recharge. This is Calm’s first collection, created just for pet lovers and inspired by the beautiful relationship people have with their pets. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

These 5 Farm Animals Make Great Pets

Farm animals are often associated with open fields and rural life, but many of them also make surprisingly affectionate, intelligent, and fun companions. While they're not your typical house pets, some farm animals can thrive in backyards or hobby farms with the right care and space. Here are five farm animals that make great pets.