Virtual Dog Therapy Opens New Doors for Mental Wellbeing

by Britt

Published: October 23rd, 2025

Photo credit: Prostock-studio / Shutterstock.com

For those of us who share our homes and our lives with a dog, we already know the truth: just a few short minutes spent with our pet can melt away the day’s stress. It’s a special connection that defines the human-animal bond.

Now, new scientific research is not only validating the power of this bond but also proving that the benefits it offers are so strong they can be shared through a screen.

In a recent study conducted by UBC Okanagan (UBCO), researchers found that even a virtual session with a therapy dog can significantly reduce a person’s stress. It’s a discovery that has big implications for our mental health and well-being.

The study, led by Dr. John-Tyler Binfet, Director of UBCO’s Building Academic Retention through K9s (B.A.R.K.) program, and Dr. Christine Tardif-Williams, builds on earlier work that examined the impact of dog-assisted mental health interventions. The goal was to find a way to make the benefits of spending time with a therapy dog more accessible to the public, especially after the increased isolation and demand for virtual medical appointments seen during the pandemic.

The findings, published in Human-Animal Interactions, were really promising. Over 1000 participants (including both students and community members) watched a five-minute pre-recorded video featuring a therapy dog and a handler. The videos featured key aspects of the in-person therapy dog experience, including calm conversations and guided reflection. Each participant completed a short stress survey before and after the session.

After comparing the surveys, researchers determined that participants experienced a noticeable drop in their stress levels simply by watching the short clip.

“The results suggest that virtual therapy dog interventions can also benefit the broader public, particularly those who face barriers to accessing in-person mental health support, such as access to outside of normal operating hours or from a remote location,” explained Binfet.

With the growing interest in telehealth services and similar alternatives in our lives, both for us and for pet care, the availability of virtual therapy dog appointments could be a game-changer for many who need it.

It’s also a clear validation for those of us who have been saying that sharing our lives with our pets has a positive overall impact on our health and well-being. If a pre-recorded five-minute video of a dog can effectively lower stress, imagine the impact of spending your life with the warm, breathing, loving presence of a pet right next to you.

When we interact positively with an animal, whether through petting, playing, or even just looking at them, it directly impacts our brain chemistry. The interaction triggers a release of oxytocin, known as the “love hormone,” which makes us feel happy and connected. At the same time, it lowers the production of the stress hormone cortisol. Combined, this shift leaves us feeling happier, less stressed, and more content.

Ultimately, this research is a reminder that the best therapy is often sitting right beside you, waiting for a belly rub.

The discoveries in this study highlight an excellent opportunity for greater accessibility for everyone to benefit from the healing power of therapy dogs, even when an in-person appointment isn’t possible.

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Britt

Britt Kascjak is a proud pet mom, sharing her heart (and her home) with her “pack” which includes her husband John, their 2 dogs – Lucifer and Willow – and their 3 cats – Pippen, Jinx, and Theia. She has been active in the animal rescue community for over 15 years, volunteering, fostering and advocating for organizations across Canada and the US. In her free time, she enjoys traveling around the country camping, hiking, and canoeing with her pets.

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Study Reveals Some Dog Breeds Are More Likely to Get Diarrhea

Few things are as awful as diarrhea and seeing your pooch in gastrointestinal distress. Unfortunately, most dogs are diagnosed with diarrhea at least once in their lifetime. Like in people, diarrhea in dogs is loose or unformed stool. Dogs suffering from diarrhea usually pass large amounts of loose stool more often than usual. Diarrhea by itself isn’t a disease, but rather a symptom of many different conditions. Loose stool caused by minor health problems is often resolved quickly with a simple treatment and a change of diet. However, diarrhea can also be a sign of serious, life-threatening conditions like organ failure or cancer, so it’s important to take your pooch to be examined by a vet. Even diarrhea caused by a minor illness can get out of hand if not treated in time. A new study, published in the open journal PLOS One, suggests that some breeds may be more prone to diarrhea than others. Researchers from the United Kingdom’s Royal Veterinary College analyzed the health records of more than two million dogs brought to the vet in the U.K. in 2019. Researchers estimate that one in 12, or 8,18%, dogs were diagnosed with diarrhea at some point during the year. The study found six breeds - Maltese, miniature poodle, German shepherd, cavapoo, cockapoo, and Yorkshire terrier - were considerably more likely to be diagnosed with diarrhea. Only two breeds - Jack Russel terrier and Chihuahua - were less likely to be diagnosed with diarrhea. Researchers believe these breeds may have higher and lower susceptibility to diarrhea. However, they can’t rule out the fact that different breeds have different diets, and even owners with different likelihoods of taking their dog to the vet in case the dog gets diarrhea. The study also showed that dogs who were three years and younger, as well as pooches aged nine and over, were more likely to be diagnosed with diarrhea than four or five-year-old dogs. Researchers weren’t surprised by these results, considering that older dogs are more likely to get diarrhea from complications related to aging, and younger dogs are extremely curious and more likely to eat something they shouldn’t, resulting in diarrhea and other digestive issues. Moreover, many dogs with diarrhea were also diagnosed with other issues at the same time. About 44% experienced vomiting, 28% had reduced appetite, and 24% were lethargic. Of all the cases analyzed, 29% were classified as hemorrhagic, meaning those dogs suffered from bloody diarrhea. The good news is that most dogs recover quickly from diarrhea. Over 80% of dogs in the study only needed one visit to the vet. However, researchers also found that 38% of dogs with diarrhea were treated with antibiotics, even though experts advise against using antibiotics in dogs with mild and moderate cases of diarrhea. “Experiencing the dreaded ‘poonami’ with your dog is one of those events any dog owner fears. This new study shows that diarrhea events are very common in dogs but that owners should not panic - no matter how bad the deluge, most dogs will recover in a few days after veterinary treatment,” said Dr. Dan O’Neill, Associate Professor of Companion Animal Epidemiology at RVC and co-author of the study.In most cases, diarrhea isn’t a medical emergency, although it may start to feel like it after you had to take your dog outside to poop for a third time in less than an hour. Even if your dog seems like their usual self, minus the diarrhea, book an appointment with your vet. With a simple treatment, your pup will be back to its usual pooping schedule before you know it. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can a Water Additive Keep My Dog's Teeth Clean?

Canine dental disease, ranging from gingivitis to advanced periodontal disease, is sadly common, affecting a large number of adult dogs. It’s a silent threat, often progressing beneath the gum line with no obvious signs until it becomes painful and seriously impacts overall health. In the most severe cases, it can lead to issues in the heart, kidneys, and liver.While veterinarians agree that daily tooth brushing is the gold standard for preventing plaque and tartar buildup, for some dogs, that feels more like a wrestling match than a bonding experience. If the idea of daily brushing feels overwhelming or impossible for your dog, you may be searching for other options, including the use of dental water additives.This post will explore how these dental products work, their potential benefits and limitations, and what you should look for when considering one for your dog. By the end, you’ll better understand if a water additive can truly help your dog and if it fits into your greater dental care plan.Why Dental Health is ImportantWhile that unpleasant “dog breath” may be your first clue that something’s wrong, halitosis (bad breath) is often just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to dental problems in our dogs. The real concern is usually progressing beneath the surface.It all begins with plaque, a sticky, colorless film that forms on your dog’s teeth and is composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. If it isn’t removed, this plaque hardens into tartar. This rough, porous surface provides the ideal environment for bacteria to build up both above and, more concerningly, below the gum line.This buildup leads to gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums that manifests as redness, swelling, and bleeding. At this early stage, gingivitis is reversible with proper dental care. However, if it’s left untreated, it can progress to periodontal disease, a far more serious condition. Periodontal disease involves the infection and inflammation of the structures that support your dog’s teeth, including the gums, ligaments, and bone. As the infection gets worse, it can lead to irreversible bone loss, gum recession, and ultimately, painful tooth loss. The impact of poor dental health can also progress beyond just the mouth. The bacteria thriving in an infected mouth don’t stay put; they can enter the bloodstream through inflamed gums and travel throughout the body. This can contribute to serious health issues in vital organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver.Plus, we must remember that dental disease is incredibly painful for our dogs and life-changing in terms of their overall quality of life. While they often hide their discomfort, dental pain can impact their ability to eat, chew toys, play, and generally enjoy their lives.This is why vets often emphasize that a healthy mouth is essential for a healthy body.The Gold Standard: Why Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth is Still RecommendedWhen it comes to your dog’s dental care, daily tooth brushing stands as the undisputed gold standard. It physically disrupts and removes the sticky plaque and food debris from the tooth surfaces and, most importantly, along the gum line, before the plaque has a chance to harden into tartar. The active scrubbing of brushing is what makes it the most effective solution. If you’re interested in brushing your dog’s teeth, there are a few things you can do to make the process smoother. Always introduce the toothbrush and toothpaste gradually, focusing on short, positive experiences at first. Make sure you use a toothpaste specifically made for pets, as human toothpaste contains ingredients like xylitol and fluoride that are toxic to dogs. Focus your brushing efforts on the outside surfaces of the teeth, paying close attention to where the tooth meets the gum line, as this is where plaque tends to build up quickest. Consistency and making tooth brushing a positive, reward-based routine are key to success. However, we must also face the reality that this isn’t going to work for every dog. Many dogs aren’t comfortable with having their mouths handled this way, leading to resistance, stress, or even fear. Regular, consistent brushing can also be a challenge for pet parents with time constraints in their busy schedules or those who lack the confidence and knowledge necessary to brush effectively. If daily brushing isn’t feasible for your dog, it doesn’t mean you have to compromise on their dental health. Instead, create a plan with other practical tools to prioritize their dental health and prevent the progression of painful oral diseases. Enter Water AdditivesGiven the challenges many pet parents face with daily brushing, an alternative that has been gaining popularity is the use of dental care water additives. Simply put, these are liquid solutions designed to be added directly to your dog’s drinking water, passively improving their oral hygiene with each drink. How They WorkThe active ingredients in the additive target oral bacteria, preventing plaque formation and helping to break down existing plaque before it hardens into tartar. This includes: Antimicrobial agents like chlorhexidine, zinc salts, or cetylpyridinium. These compounds help stop the growth of bacteria in the mouth, reducing the overall amount of bacteria contributing to plaque formation and bad breath. Enzymes such as glucose oxidase and lactoperoxidase function by breaking down components of plaque or creating an unfavorable environment for bacteria to live and grow. Plaque-loosening agents like citric acid or specific plant extracts are thought to help prevent plaque from adhering to the tooth's surface and soften existing plaque, making it easier to remove through activities like chewing. Some products are made to be tasteless, promising your dog won’t even notice the product has been added to the water. Others add a mild flavoring to make it more tempting for dogs, encouraging them to drink more, adding another benefit to their use.

My Dog Broke A Nail, Now What?

Seeing your pup showing signs of pain is never easy, and the sight of blood can be particularly alarming. While a broken nail may not seem like a major source of alarm, that one small injury can introduce a lot of discomfort (and blood). But take a deep breath; you’re not alone in facing this common struggle.This blog post is designed to be an informative guide, walking you through the essential steps to take when your dog breaks a nail to relieve pain and prevent further complications. With the proper knowledge and a little care, most broken nail situations can be managed effectively, allowing your pup to get back on their paws in no time.First Aid for Dog Nail Injuries When you discover your dog has broken a nail, remain calm. Your dog may be in pain and feeling anxious. By staying calm and composed, you will help prevent further distress and avoid a possible accidental injury to you. Speak in a soothing voice and move slowly. If your dog is particularly sensitive to pain or tends to react defensively when hurt, you may wish to enlist the help of another person to gently restrain them. In situations where you’re concerned about being bitten, having a properly fitted muzzle on hand can ensure everyone stays safe while you administer first aid. Stop the BleedingBroken nails often bleed because they contain a blood vessel known as the quick. You'll likely see some blood if the break occurs above this point. The first step in managing this injury is to stop the bleeding quickly. When dealing with any type of bleeding, your first line of defense is to apply direct pressure. Use a clean cloth or a piece of gauze and firmly press it against the bleeding nail for several minutes, often longer than you may initially think. Resist the temptation to check frequently, as removing the pressure can disrupt the clotting process. For persistent bleeding, styptic powder or a styptic pencil is an effective solution. We ensure we always have at least one of the two in our pet-friendly first aid kit. Styptic powder contains ingredients that help constrict blood vessels and promote clotting. To use it, apply a small amount directly to the bleeding area of the nail. A styptic pencil works similarly; wet the tip slightly to activate it and gently press it against the bleeding directly. If you don’t have styptic powder or a pencil on hand, some common alternatives that dog parents will reach for are cornstarch and flour. They can help absorb blood and encourage clotting. The easiest way to use these is to put some into a small container and then place the broken nail in it, maintaining pressure to give the blood time to clot. Remember, patience is key during this step; the bleeding may take several minutes to stop. Assessing the Damage Look closely at the broken nail once the bleeding has stopped or significantly slowed. Is it a clean break near the tip? Is it a partial tear that’s still attached? Is the quick exposed, leaving a raw and sensitive area? Take note of any visible debris, such as dirt, splinters, or fragments of the nail itself. Your findings will help you decide on the best course of action to prevent further damage and whether you need to contact your vet. Initial Cleaning (If Possible and Safe)If your dog tolerates examining their paw and the bleeding is under control, you may be able to gently clean the area. Use lukewarm water to carefully rinse the paw and the broken nail. This can help to remove any loose dirt or debris that may be there. Avoid using any harsh antiseptics like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol at this stage, as they can be irritating to the exposed injury and potentially delay healing. The goal of this initial cleaning is simply to remove any obvious dirt that could contribute to further pain and discomfort. Your vet can do a more thorough cleaning if necessary. Understanding the Risks of Dog Nail Injuries While the immediate sight of blood from a broken nail can be alarming, the potential risks extend beyond this initial shock. Here are a few additional risks to be aware of: Pain and DiscomfortEven if you manage to stop the bleeding quickly, your dog can still experience significant pain and discomfort. The nail bed contains sensitive nerve endings, and a break, especially if it leaves the quick exposed, can create a very painful situation for your pup. Every time your dog puts pressure on the affected paw, they may feel a sharp or throbbing pain, leading to limping or a reluctance to walk or put weight on that leg. InfectionA break in the nail creates an open wound, providing an entry point for bacteria and fungal organisms that they may encounter in the environment. Simple things like walking on the ground, contact with dirt and debris, or even your dog’s own licking can introduce pathogens into the wound. Recognizing the signs of infection is crucial to addressing it as quickly as possible. Keep an eye out for the following red flags: Redness Swelling around the nail bedPus or discharge Increased pain or sensitivityWarmth to the touch Fever Lethargy Partially Broken Nails A partially broken nail poses its own set of risks to your pup. The jagged edge can easily catch on carpets, furniture, or outdoor surfaces, leading to further tearing of the nail and increased pain for your dog. Ongoing Irritation of the AreaThe irritation and discomfort can also trigger excessive licking or chewing at the affected paw. While your dog may be trying to soothe their pain, this behavior can make the problem worse by introducing more bacteria and potentially leading to self-inflicted wounds around the paw. Mobility Concerns In more severe cases, a broken nail can significantly impact your dog’s mobility. The pain and discomfort can make it difficult for them to engage in their usual activities, such as walking, running, and playing. This not only impacts their physical well-being but can also negatively impact their overall happiness and quality of life. Imagine being a high-energy dog who no longer has a safe outlet for all that energy.

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Should I Be Worried About My Dog Eating Dirt?

Have you ever been out enjoying a peaceful walk or watching your pup play in the backyard, only to witness them suddenly nose-dive into the soil and… start eating it? That immediate feeling of disgust (who eats dirt, eww) is usually followed by a wave of concern. Ultimately, you’re left wondering why your dog would engage in such a seemingly unappetizing habit.You’re not alone! It’s a question that has likely crossed the minds of countless dedicated dog parents. Why? Because this “dirty” habit (see what I did there) is more common than you think!In this post, I will shed light on why dogs eat dirt, the potential risks associated with this habit, help you understand when it’s an unpleasant quirk versus a cause for concern, and most importantly, offer some tips and tricks to help keep your pup safe. Because when it comes to our dogs, peace of mind is priceless!Understanding Your Dog’s Motivation for Eating DirtWhen we see our dogs consuming dirt, it’s natural to immediately wonder why. This seemingly strange behavior, eating non-food items, actually has a scientific name: pica. While occasional dirt-licking might be harmless, chronic pica, where a dog regularly or obsessively eats dirt, can be a sign of underlying physical or behavioral issues that must be addressed. It’s not just about a dirty mouth; it could be a red flag that there’s something bigger at play.Nutritional DeficienciesFor a long time, the most common explanation for dogs eating dirt was a perceived nutritional deficiency. More specifically, many people believed it was a lack of essential minerals like iron. The idea was that dogs instinctively seek out what their bodies are missing. Therefore, if they are missing iron, they will look to eat something that will supply the missing mineral.While this can be a factor, it’s generally less common for dogs fed a high-quality, complete, and balanced commercial dog food. These foods are meticulously formulated to provide all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients a dog needs. So, while it’s a possibility, it’s often not the primary culprit.Behavior Roots of Dirt EatingMore often than not, the reasons behind eating dirt are behavioral. Just like humans, dogs can exhibit a range of behaviors that may seem “off” or out of character due to their emotional and mental states.Boredom and lack of stimulation: Dogs are highly intelligent creatures who need physical and mental enrichment. If your dog isn’t getting enough walks, playtime, or interactive toys, they may eat dirt to entertain themselves. It’s a novel texture, a different smell, and an activity to occupy their time.Anxiety and stress: Just like some people chew their nails when they are feeling nervous, some dogs develop coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety. Eating dirt can be a repetitive, self-soothing behavior for dogs experiencing separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, or other environmental stressors.Curiosity and exploration: This is especially true for young puppies. The world is a brand-new place, and puppies explore everything with their mouths. Dirt offers fascinating smells, textures, and tastes that they may be investigating out of pure curiosity, similar to how human toddlers put everything in their mouths.Attention-seeking behavior: Let’s be honest; seeing your dog eat dirt usually triggers a strong reaction from you. Perhaps you gasp loudly, quickly dash to stop them, or call out a firm “no!” If a dog learns that eating dirt gets them immediate attention, even if it’s negative attention, they might repeat the behavior just to get you to engage with them.Instinctual behavior: While highly domesticated, dogs still possess some primal instincts passed down from their wild ancestors. Wild dogs might ingest small amounts of dirt or soil to aid digestion, firm up loose stools, or perhaps even obtain trace minerals. However, this instinct is far less relevant for most modern house dogs and generally a thing of the past.Tummy TroublesSometimes eating dirt is a sign of underlying gastrointestinal problems. Just like dogs sometimes eat grass when they have an upset stomach or feel nauseous, they might also ingest dirt. They could be attempting to soothe an irritated digestive tract, induce vomiting to relieve discomfort, or simply looking for something to help them feel better. If your dog suddenly starts eating dirt and seems to be experiencing stomach issues, it’s a strong sign that their digestive system might be trying to tell you something.Tasty TemptationsOf course, there is always the possibility that something enticing is tempting them to dive in for a taste. Take a moment to consider the area from which your dog is snagging the dirt. Is there a reason they may believe the dirt could be delicious? For example, if you recently fertilized the garden, the scent of manure could be drawing your pup in.The Risks: When Dirt Eating Can Be DangerousWhile a casual lick of dirt might seem harmless, this habit could easily cross the line into much more concerning territory. Consistent or extensive dirt eating carries a long list of potential dangers for your pup.Gastrointestinal Blockages and ObstructionsOne of the most immediate and serious concerns when a dog eats dirt is the risk of a blockage or obstruction in their gastrointestinal tract. It’s not just the dirt itself; it’s often what’s mixed in with the dirt that leads to trouble. Small stones, pebbles, sticks, plastic pieces, or other debris can easily be ingested along with the soil. These non-digestible items can accumulate in the stomach or intestines, leading to a partial or complete blockage.This is a veterinary emergency that often requires surgical intervention. If not addressed, it can quickly turn life-threatening. Watch out for symptoms such as:Persistent vomitingLethargy and weaknessLoss of appetiteAbdominal pain or tendernessStraining to defecate or inability to pass waste

New Treatment Offers Hope for Dogs with Herniated Disks

If your dog suddenly yelps for no reason, starts limping, or, worst of all, begins dragging their back legs, your mind goes straight to panic mode. You Google, you call the vet, and the word surgery comes up faster than you can say “walkies.” It’s terrifying, and not just for your dog. But there’s something new stirring hope at Texas A&M University: a promising clinical trial using a special enzyme injection to treat herniated disks in dogs. No surgery. No long hospital stays. Just a targeted injection and the potential for a new chance at life.“This could change how we treat spinal injuries in dogs,” says Dr. Nick Jeffery, the neurologist leading the study at Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine. “We’re using a naturally derived enzyme to dissolve the herniated material that’s pressing on the spinal cord. It’s quick, minimally invasive, and so far, the results have exceeded expectations.”Herniated disks, technically known as intervertebral disk disease, or IVDD, are heartbreakingly common, especially in small breeds with long backs: think dachshunds, beagles, French bulldogs, and corgis. One wrong jump off the couch, and suddenly your happy-go-lucky pup can’t walk, can’t stand, and might be in serious pain.Traditionally, surgery has been the only real option. But it’s costly, carries risks, and recovery can be rough. Not every dog is a good surgical candidate, and not every family can pay a multi-thousand-dollar vet bill, even if they desperately want to.That’s where this trial comes in, and it already has promising results.Oscar, a five-year-old dachshund, is living proof. One morning, he just couldn’t walk. “He tried to get up and collapsed,” recalls his owner, Ashley. “He looked confused and scared, and I was a wreck.” Her vet referred her to Texas A&M just in time. Oscar received the enzyme injection less than 48 hours after his symptoms began, and within days, he was wagging again.According to the study, which involved 54 small-breed dogs, the success rate has been remarkable. Nearly all the dogs who still had feeling in their back legs recovered mobility quickly. Even a few with more severe symptoms showed significant improvement. And so far, no dog has experienced any major side effects.Of course, there are caveats. Timing is everything; dogs need to receive the injection within about three days of symptoms showing up. The trial is currently limited to small dogs, and it’s only happening at Texas A&M’s teaching hospital for now. But if the results continue to be this strong, there’s real potential for wider availability in the near future.“It’s not a magic fix, but it’s the closest thing we’ve seen,” Dr. Jeffery says. “We want owners to know that if their dog shows signs of back pain or weakness, time matters. Getting to a vet right away can make the difference between a simple injection and a much more complicated road.”The treatment, called chondroitinase injection therapy, works by dissolving the gel-like center of the slipped disk that’s putting pressure on the spinal cord. Think of it like deflating a balloon that’s gotten stuck in the wrong place. Once the pressure is off, the spinal cord can start to recover, and so can the dog.And while it’s still early days, the results are exciting. Less invasive care, lower costs, shorter recovery time, and a whole lot less trauma for everyone involved. For dog lovers, that’s huge.For now, the team at Texas A&M continues its work, hoping to expand access and gather more data. But the message for pet parents is clear: if something’s off, don’t wait. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Can I Help My Cat Lose Weight?

There’s a silent epidemic quietly impacting countless cats across the United States and throughout the world: pet obesity. It’s a condition that, while seemingly harmless at first glance, can seriously impact your cat’s quality of life and shorten their precious time by your side.If you’re reading this, it’s because you’ve noticed your cat is carrying a few extra pounds as of late, and you’re concerned about the possible impact on their health and well-being. This post will help you understand why your cat’s weight matters, the tangible steps you can take to help them reach a healthy weight, and when to bring your veterinarian into the conversation.Why Your Cat’s Weight MattersIt’s easy to look at a chunky kitty and think they’re simply “cuddly” or “well-fed.” However, what might seem like a bit of extra cushion could also be a sign of a serious health concern. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about a condition where your cat’s excess body weight could negatively impact their health and well-being.So, how can you tell if your cat is carrying too much weight?Beyond just the number on the scale, there are a few visual cues you can watch out for. Ideally, you should be able to feel your cat’s ribs when you gently run your hands along their side (although they should not be noticeably sticking out). Their waist should also be noticeable, tapering slightly behind the ribs when viewed from above.They might be overweight if you can’t feel their ribs or if your cat looks more like a furry loaf than a sleek cat. This is incredibly common, with the 2022 Association for Pet Obesity Prevention survey revealing that 61% of cats are overweight or obese.The Potential Health ProblemsThe consequences of carrying extra weight extend far beyond a less active lifestyle. Obesity can trigger, or significantly contribute to, many serious health problems. Experts warn that this additional weight could impact nearly every system in your cat’s body!DiabetesJust like in humans, obesity in cats significantly increases their risk of developing diabetes. Excess body fat can make a cat’s cells resistant to insulin, the key hormone needed to regulate blood sugar. This means their body struggles to use sugar for energy, leading to high blood sugar levels.If your cat is suffering from diabetes, you may notice they are drinking more, urinating more frequently, eating more, or even losing muscle mass despite eating. More severe cases of diabetes will require lifelong insulin injections to regulate your cat’s blood sugar. If left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening complications.OsteoarthritisImagine carrying a heavy backpack all day, every day. That’s essentially what an overweight cat’s joints experience. This excess weight puts immense strain on their bones, joints, and cartilage, leading to inflammation, pain, and the development of osteoarthritis. This can make it painful to jump, climb, or even walk.Signs of arthritis in cats include:Reluctance to moveDifficulty getting up or lying downReduced activity levelsStiffnessSubtle limpThis pain can significantly reduce your cat’s comfort and overall quality of life.Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease or Other Urinary IssuesOverweight cats are more likely to develop uncomfortable and potentially dangerous urinary tract problems. Obesity can contribute to inflammation in the bladder, the formation of urinary stones, or even life-threatening blockages, most commonly seen in male cats. Signs to watch out for include straining to pee, frequent trips to the litter box with little or no result, accidents outside the litter box, or crying out in pain while attempting to go.Liver Disease (Hepatic Lipidosis or Fatty Liver Syndrome)This is a particularly serious and potentially life-threatening condition unique to cats, and overweight kitties are at a much higher risk. If an overweight cat suddenly stops eating for even a short period (due to stress, illness, or even an attempt to diet too quickly), their body starts to send its fat reserves to the liver much faster. The liver becomes overwhelmed and can’t process the fat efficiently, leading to liver failure. This is why any sudden loss of appetite, especially in an overweight cat, should be addressed with a vet appointment.Cardiovascular DiseaseCarrying extra weight means your cat’s heart has to work much harder to pump blood throughout their body. This heavy workload can lead to higher blood pressure and, over time, can lead to the development of serious heart conditions, diminishing their cardiovascular health, and potentially shortening their lifespan.Respiratory Problems Just like humans, excess fat in cats can accumulate around their chest and abdomen, restricting the ability of their lungs to expand effectively. This can make breathing difficult, especially during activity or in warm temperatures. You might notice your cat snoring more, breathing heavily after minimal activity, or even showing signs of labored breathing. Reduced Quality of Life and LongevityBeyond specific diseases, an overweight cat is generally less active, less playful, and less able to engage in natural cat behaviors like grooming themselves thoroughly. They might struggle to reach certain areas, leading to matted fur, bald spots, and skin issues. You may not be surprised to hear that research consistently shows that cats who maintain a healthy weight live significantly longer, more comfortable, and more active lives than those who are overweight or obese. Anesthetic and Surgical Risks If your cat ever needs surgery or a dental procedure requiring anesthesia, their weight may pose additional risks. Excess fat can make it more challenging for vets to administer anesthesia safely and accurately, and it can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery due to altered drug metabolism and increased strain on the vital organs.

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Fall is the perfect season for cozy walks, pumpkin spice everything and, of course, spoiling your furry best friend with new toys. Whether you’re celebrating Halloween, enjoying crisp autumn evenings, or just looking for ways to keep your dog engaged indoors, these playful picks are sure to bring tail wags all season long.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

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.

Biotech Firms Might Make Ozempic Available for Pets

You’ve heard of Ozempic for weight loss in people, but did you ever think that it would be an option for overweight dogs and cats? Well, biotech firms are working on bringing to market an implant that will function in a similar way to GLP-1 receptor agonists in humans. If trials are successful, you might see veterinarians prescribing it in 2028 or 2029.

China's Latest Bomb Sniffing Dynamo Comes Up a Little Short

New Corgi recruit is sniffing out more than bombs as he snatches food while out on patrol.

Lucky Has Spent 1,500 Days in a Shelter Waiting for a Forever Home

Some dogs get scooped up within days of arriving at a shelter. A few might wait a little longer. Then there’s Lucky, a sweet, misunderstood Labrador mix who’s been in a California rescue for more than four years.That’s 1,500 days of watching other dogs come and go. Of hearing excited voices, footsteps, the rattle of leashes, and none of it for him.Lucky has been living at AGWC Rockin’ Rescue in Woodland Hills since 2021. He came in after being rescued from a rough situation. His background’s a bit of a mystery. But it’s clear he didn’t have much of a foundation, no real training, no one to teach him how to be a pet, and no reason to trust people. Yet somehow, he’s never stopped trying.“He’s not the kind of dog who jumps up and licks your face the second you meet him,” said Fabienne Origer, a staff member at the rescue who’s known Lucky for years. “But once he bonds with you, he’s deeply loyal. He’ll follow you around, he’ll lean in for affection—he just needs someone to give him the time to feel safe.”And that’s been the hardest part. In the chaos of a rescue, dogs who take a little time to warm up often get overlooked. People want an instant connection, and Lucky doesn’t offer that. He’s quiet, he studies people, he waits.As a result, most visitors pass right by.Over the years, the rescue has done everything it can to keep Lucky’s spirits up. He goes on walks. He gets enrichment games. The staff works with him regularly to help him stay mentally sharp and emotionally grounded. And it’s clear he still has so much to give, he's a bright and curious pooch, eager to learn. He just needs a home that’s calm, consistent, and committed.“He thrives when he knows what to expect,” Origer said. “A quiet home, no kids, someone experienced with dogs, that’s all he needs. Just one person who’s willing to go a little slower and let him come around.”Recently, the rescue posted a video of Lucky lying in his kennel, head on his paws, eyes staring off toward the front door. It wasn’t dramatic. There was no music, no narration. Just Lucky, waiting. And somehow that was enough. The comments poured in, some heartbroken, some angry, many asking, how is this dog still here?It’s a good question. Because the truth is, there’s nothing wrong with Lucky; he just doesn’t fit into a box. He’s not flashy or showy, and he doesn’t love everyone on sight. But he does love deeply, once he decides you’re safe. And if you’re lucky enough to earn that trust, you’ll never find a more loyal friend.Shelters do everything they can, but they’re not homes. And after four years, Lucky is starting to show signs of wear. He still has hope—he still perks up for his walks, still chases after a ball, but there’s a tiredness in his eyes that wasn’t there before. A quiet question: Is anyone ever going to come for me?If you’re reading this and thinking, maybe I could be the one, the rescue would love to hear from you. Lucky’s not for everyone. But for the right person, he’ll be everything.He’s not giving up. And neither are the people who love him.But after 1,500 days, it’s time for Lucky to find his person and go home. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can Betta Fish Live with Other Fish?

Betta fish - also known as Siamese fighting fish - are some of the most striking freshwater fish you can add to an aquarium. With their vibrant colors and flowing fins, they’re a favorite among both beginner and experienced aquarists. But one common question often arises: Can bettas live with other fish?The short answer is yes, but with caution and planning. While bettas can sometimes be kept with tank mates, their compatibility depends on their temperament, the tank setup, and the types of fish you introduce. Here’s what you need to know.Understanding Betta BehaviorMale bettas are well-known for their territorial and aggressive nature, especially toward other males or fish that resemble them. This trait has roots in their wild origins, as bettas come from small, isolated waters in Southeast Asia, where males would compete for territory.Female bettas are typically less aggressive but can still be territorial in cramped spaces. That’s why tank size matters a lot. Small bowls or tanks under 5 gallons (19 liters) are not suitable for any community setup. If you want to try housing a betta with other fish, aim for a tank of at least 10 gallons (around 40 liters) - more space means more territory and fewer conflicts.

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