Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: Dog On A Hunger Strike

by Hairy Dogfathers

Published: February 24th, 2015

ask the hairy dogfathers dog on a hunger strike

What do you do if your dog refuses to eat his food? The Hairy Dogfathers have a few suggestions that will have him licking the bottom of his empty bowl!

Dear Hairy Dogfathers,

I feel like an awful Mom! My little guy just will NOT eat! I put out his kibble, and when I come home, it’s still all there. I am worried he is going to make himself sick. I have started to change things up for him, mixing his food with wet food, but after a week he tires of that. So then I try another food. Things have gotten so bad that I have been dripping bacon fat on his kibble, but he is picking out only the greasy ones and leaving the rest.

Help my starving dog!

Related: Daddy’s Puppy Problem

André says:

Dear Starving Dog,

When there is a major change in behaviour like this it’s important to consult your vet ASAP. Hopefully it’s nothing medical, but better to be safe than sorry. Assuming the vet gives you the all clear, the first thing I would suggest is stop free feeding your pup. By doing so you are really de-valuing his food, making it pretty boring. To start, leave it out for minutes, if he doesn’t go for it, put it away for a few hours, and repeat as necessary. If he doesn’t start to catch on after a few days, try doing some training with him by praising him like nuts when he goes near his bowl or eats a kibble. If you make food exciting for him again, he will get back on track quickly.

Related: A Dog By Any Other Name

Kevin says:

Dear Starving Dog,

Take a deep breath. Repeat after me: “I got this. I can handle this. This is under control.”

Now, take your dog to the vet, rule out any medical concerns that may be causing your dog to not eat. Assuming there is nothing medically wrong with the dog, it’s time to get serious here.

Stick to a routine, every day. Take 5 minutes each morning and do some training with your dog. Practice a new trick. Work on “Sit and Stay.” After you have put your dog through the paces, then he may have his food.

You may choose to feed about 1/3 of the dog’s food from your hand. The rest can come from the bowl. If your dog doesn’t eat, then put the food away. Try again later in the day. By being consistent, your dog will learn to anticipate when regular meal times are coming. He may miss a few meals in the beginning, but he will quickly learn when meal times are, and I bet within a few weeks he will be excited and ready for his meals!

Hairy Dogfathers

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Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: Dog Birthday Blues

Birthdays are a time to celebrate… especially for pet parents. But what do you do when you don’t know your dog’s B-Day? The Hairy Dogfathers want to help! Dear Hairy Dogfathers, Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday to you! Guys, we are having a birthday party here for our youngest dog. He is going to be one year old. Time sure flies when you are having fun! Her friends from flyball are coming over, and we are going to have pupcakes, and play some games. Of course I am looking forward to the party. But I’m kinda feeling weird about it because my other two dogs – I don’t know when they were born! They were both from the same shelter, and even their ages are a guess. I just have no idea when their birthdays are, how do I celebrate and make them included, when I don’t know when they were born! Birthday Blues Related: Showing Off My Pooch Pride André says: Happy birthday, my furry friend. Celebrating your dog’s birthday can be a hoot, and the best thing is that they are never expecting it. Believe it or not, we have a similar problem in our house. We know the birthdays of two of our dogs but not the third. Thankfully there are some easy solutions to this. One of them is to celebrate everyone on the same day. This is great because it’s easy and you avoid the pack politics that arise when you are giving more special attention to a dog that’s lower on the pack order. If you are set on all of your dogs having their own birthdays, the solution is celebrating their ‘Gotcha Day,’ which is the day that they became part of your family. Related: Can You Return A Surprise Puppy Present? Kevin says: We are lucky enough to know the birthdays of two of our dogs, but not Belle. But, it’s kinda like a dog’s birthday here every day! They get plenty of adventures, playtime and great food. We cuddle them, and they have piles of toys. So I don’t feel too bad that we don’t know Belle’s birthday. I do like to mark Belle’s “Gotcha Day,” the day I adopted her from the rescue. I feel that it is important to mark the day she entered into our family. We don’t do anything too big or overwhelming, we just celebrate it. Part of having a multi-dog pack is ensuring that each dog gets some alone time, away from the other dogs. This alone time is really special, and we look for opportunities to celebrate our dogs, each and every day. Birthdays and Gotcha Days are nice, but dogs prefer the day to day chances to celebrate their lives with you!

Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: Dog Don’t Got Game

What do you do when your dog doesn’t share your passion for the sport of agility? Instead of being benched, the Hairy Dogfathers have some advice to share. Dear Hairy Dogfathers, I am a crazy dog person. I fully and freely admit this. My first dog, Huey, loved agility so much. Huey got older, and passed over the Rainbow Bridge. My agility friends found me another dog, Gamer. Gamer was bred by someone in the club, and all his family play agility. Gamer doesn’t. His mom does, his dad plays, all his siblings happily play. I have tried all sorts of things, and he just isn’t an agility dog. He doesn’t enjoy it, and I am not going make him do it. But here’s my problem… I would happily keep Gamer as a pet, and get a second dog to do agility with. My husband says that one dog is enough, and there’s no way we are getting a second! Agility was my outlet, my passion! I miss my friends there. What am I to do? From, No more agility!? Related: Exhilarating Workouts For You And Your Dog André says: Dear Agility, Playing a sport with your dog can be so much fun, and can also be a good social outlet for you and your dog. It’s really too bad that Gamer isn’t into agility, total bummer. It’s understandable that you want to continue with the sport, and it’s unfortunate that your hubby isn’t open to getting a second dog right now. While you’re waiting for him to come around, why don’t you try a new dog sport? There are so many to choose from, some of my personal favorites include rally, disc dogging and canicross. Depending on what Gamer is into, I’m sure you can find a human/canine sport that suits the two of you, it may not be what you are used to, but I guarantee it will help you and Gamer grow closer and you will both have a lot of fun. Game on! Related: Dog-Powered Running: Get Fit With Canicross Kevin says: Dear Agility, I hear you! But honey, this isn’t all about you! Your dog is trying to tell you something here: he doesn’t like this sport. So play around with some other training. Perhaps some of your other agility friends are willing to cross over and try a new sport with you as well. Now for the husband thinking you have enough dogs… well, I can relate to that! I certainly don’t understand it, but I have been there. Everyone has their limits, and one dog is his. You have to respect that. You don’t have to like it, but you have to respect it. Perhaps you and the hubby would be willing to foster another dog, just to see if four’s a crowd. Remember, your hubby has to live there too, so be fair to him! Now, if you can’t get a second dog, and another sport doesn’t appeal to you, then consider helping out at your club. Be a super helper with setting up equipment, a timer at matches or take on a more formal role within the club’s organization. Dogs don’t live forever. Enjoy Gamer for who he is. Kevin

Ask the Hairy Dogfathers: Unleashed Dog a Neighborhood Menace

A reader writes in about her pet peeve – her neighbor’s unleashed dog is wreaking havoc on walks and leaving a mess in its wake. The Hairy Dogfathers know just what to say to curb this nasty habit. Hi Hairy Dogfathers, Can you help me with what to say when asking a neighbor to keep her dog on leash and to also clean up after him? It’s really driving me nuts! Aside from the city ordinances on both issues, it’s really challenging whenever we run into her. Because her dog is off leash, he comes charging up to my dogs, which makes both of them go extra nuts, and the dog ignores her if she tries to call it away from us! It’s even worse when my toddler is with us  then I have two dogs going bonkers and a crying kid. I am scared my kid is going to be bitten. The neighbor also does not clean up after the dog; I have cleaned up her dog’s poop several times now. She seems completely passive about the whole thing, and I’d like to say something before complaining to the building manager or something more extreme. Signed, At the End of My Leash Related: Poetic Poop André says: Sounds like you have an unpleasant situation which could easily get out of hand. First thing to think about is how and when to approach your neighbour regarding this. Clearly when you are running into them with your own dog or child you have enough to worry about, and even if you have a speech prepared, you are bound to pepper it with some flowery language. If you like this person, one idea would be to invite them and their dog for a playdate at a local dog park, that way they can both be appropriately be off leash and burn off some steam, while you and the neighbour can have a heart to heart. If you would rather not be too friendly, write your neighbour a note about your concerns; the best part about this strategy is that others have surely noticed and she likely won’t know the note comes from you. In terms of what to say: based on your message to us I think you already have that figured out, just make sure you convey it in a straightforward way. There is no benefit to using flowery language because chances are they have heard it before and haven’t been reading between the lines. Related: Bad Manners At The Dog Park Kevin says: Oh that’s ugly! My vote is go straight to the building manager. This person is clearly a nuisance and hopefully if enough people complain they will give her the boot! Be clear with the building manager that all of the other dogs you encounter are under control, and that people are cleaning up after their pets. In the meantime I suggest putting in some extra time with your dogs, so they have more self-control, even when other dogs do not. Let us know how this gets resolved!

Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: A Dog By Any Other Name

Our “Hairy Dogfathers” are here to offer expert and practical advice. Dog trainers (and handsome hubbies) Kevin and André are here to answer your trying training questions and offer tried-and-tested techniques. This couple may have conflicting opinions when it comes to what tips to try, but there’s always one thing they agree on – a well-trained dog makes for a happy dog (and household!). Dear Hairy Dogfathers, We rescued the most adorable puppy! With his winning smile, his soft black fur, and his calm cuteness we were hooked. My husband and I had been talking about adding a second dog for some time. But now that he is here, we are stuck for a name. He has a name in rescue, but it didn’t really roll off the tongue, and we want to give him a fresh start with a new name. Please help! From, I-can’t-think-of-a-name-for-my-puppy-how-do-I-think-of-a-name-to-sign-this! Related: Newlywed Puppy Problems André says: Dear I can’t think of a name, Congrats on the new puppy! Having multiple dogs can be a lot of fun, and integrating a second dog as a puppy should be “child’s play” (pun intended). Names can be easy and difficult at the same time. Sometimes they come to you naturally, other times it’s hard to agree on one with your partner. A name for a single dog can come from anywhere; some like famous people names and some like food names… pretty much anything goes. When it comes to naming your second dog there are a two basic ground rules. First, the names of your dogs can’t be similar, or they won’t be able to tell the difference when you call them. Remember to think of how you shorten their names (their nicknames), as we all tend to shorten medium or long names to one syllable. Second, they can’t clash. You don’t have to give them names that go together like Bonnie and Clyde or Burger and Fries, but they need to sounds reasonable together. The names should roll off your tongue so you don’t trip over the words while calling them frantically as they catch the scent of a rabbit in the park. By following those two basic rules and using your personal taste, it’s hard to go wrong. Best of luck! Related: Top 10 Awwww-Inducing Cute Dog Names Kevin says: Dear I can’t think of a name, Ohhhhh a puppy! Okay, I should be fine now, got it all out of my system. Picking the perfect name for your new family member is a big deal, and the fact you haven’t found a name yet, means that you are taking this seriously! I have worked in rescue for 20 years, and often times, so many animals come through the door, and you have to get creative with names. You have to call them SOMETHING, so you just start naming names off the top of your head. Changing your rescue dog’s name is totally doable and a great idea to mark a fresh start. Some people seem to have a list of dog names in their heads, or even have the name before the dog is even in the picture! I am always telling André that our next dog will be called Pistol, or our next dog will be called Fen, or Steppenwolf. But it never turns out that way. Names are powerful – to choose the right name, you have to get to know the dog. One of the first things people will ask about your new dog is “What’s his name?” It will set the tone for how people react to him. A funny, happy name will make people relax and smile. A scary name will cause people to look at you sideways! So think carefully and a name will come once his personality starts to show. Keep us updated!

Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: Therapy Dog Fraud?

Just because you can register your pooch as a therapy dog, does it mean that you should? The Hairy Dogfathers have a few thoughts on if a dog should be registered just for a reader’s convenience. Dear Hairy Dogfathers, I have a wedding next winter that I have been invited to. I am close to this niece and I would like to support her. However, it’s a destination wedding and I don’t want to leave my dog at home. I heard from a friend that she registered her pooch as a therapy dog, so she can bring it on the plane with her anywhere she goes. How do I do this? Signed, Not Going to Fly Solo Related: Why Isn’t Service Dog Fraud Against The Law? André says: Dear No Solo, Leaving your dog behind when you go away is never fun. I always do my best to plan road trips instead of hitting the airways for this exact reason. In terms of your current situation, getting your dog some kind of service designation may be an option, you will have to do some research on this as the requirements vary by region. But I caution that before you go through with this, make sure to think it through. Getting your dog on the plane is only part of it; will this vacation be conducive to having your dog with you? Are you planning on spending your afternoons at a swim-up bar or on the beach tanning? If you dog will end up spending more time in the hotel room than with you, you are likely better off finding a good kennel where your dog and stay and play while you enjoy your niece’s wedding. Related: American Airlines Stops Hero Service Dog From Boarding Plane Home Kevin says: No, No Solo! Just don’t do it! People who rely on service dogs, RELY on them! Now we’re seeing refusal of entry to actual service dogs because so many people have had the same thought as you and are trying to get their dogs passed off as “therapy dogs.” This is a growing problems that is jeopardizing special needs people and their dogs. Actual service dogs go through intense training, not so they get on planes, but so they can do a critical job. I get the guilt and you not wanting to leave your pup behind for a wedding. But ask around – there are some really wonderful house sitters and doggy camps out there. The best ones book up early, so start looking now. And my bet is that your dog will have such a good time, he won’t even miss you!

Bella the Cat Breaks the Guinness World Record for Loudest Purr

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

Adopter Visits a Dog Every Day for 2 Months to Earn the Pet's Trust

Alva, a fearful dog who spent over 500 days at Austin Pets Alive! shelter has found a loving home thanks to an adopter who believed in her. According to Dr. Ellen Jefferson, a veterinarian and the CEO and president of Austin Pets Alive! (APA!), Alva first arrived at the shelter in 2019, as a puppy. Alva was transferred to APA! from another shelter after it was discovered that she had cerebellar hypoplasia. This congenital neurological condition affects the part of the brain that controls movement, leading to mobility issues. “We’re a shelter that generally takes animals from other shelters when they can’t afford long-term medical treatment,” said Jefferson, according to PEOPLE. The shelter quickly found a home for the young puppy, but problems emerged as Alva grew up.A common issue for dogs with severe mobility problems is that they don’t get out as much as healthy dogs. They spend most of their time inside a loving home with people who take good care of them. Unfortunately, these dogs miss a vital part of socialization as they aren’t exposed to new people, animals, and situations during puppyhood. As the home Alva grew up in became busier, she attempted to bite the people who came over for a visit. This type of fear aggression is common for dogs with mobility issues because they can’t get away. Sadly, Alva ended up back in the shelter because she became territorial, defensive, and fearful. While the shelter looked for a perfect adopter for Alva, the behavioral support team and volunteers worked with the pooch daily. “She got the best care she possibly could, with so many people taking her out every day,” Jefferson shared. “She had a wheelchair made for her.”Although Alva made immense progress with her mobility and behavioral issues, no one showed interest in adopting her for more than 500 days. Luckily, Alva wasn’t destined to stay in the shelter forever! Alva’s future changed when Joe Rotunda saw her on Instagram in July. Although he wasn’t looking for a new pet at that time, he immediately knew that he wanted to give Alva a loving home. “She shined. She had this almost tangible will,” Rotunda said. “I saw all these videos of Alva running, playing, and falling down. And every time she fell, she pulled herself back up. Every time a challenge presented itself, she did not go around it; she went over it. And I was very inspired.”It was love at first sight! Rotunda didn’t hesitate for a second, instead, he drove to APA! to schedule a meeting with Alva. “She was very wary of me. She was very nervous, concerned, and anxious,” said Rotunda about Alva’s initial reaction to him. “But, you could tell she was so loving and affectionate around the people that she knew.”To earn Alva’s trust, Rotunda kept coming back. That meant visiting the shelter every day for two months! “She needed someone who would not give up on her. And I never questioned that decision,” he explained.Over time, Alva who lounged and nipped at him at first, started to approach Rotunda and feel safe in his company. By October the APA! and Rotunda agreed it was time for Alva to spend the night outside the shelter.Before Alva arrived, Rotunda transformed his home to make it inviting and as comfortable as possible. He blocked a large section of the living room to make a private play area and added several crates to give Alva room to decompress.Alva arrived on Friday night, and when the APA! caretaker came to collect her the next day, it was obvious the dog wanted to stay. “She did not want to leave the house. She did not want to go back to APA. And she’s been here ever since.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Finney the Jack Russell Terrier Survives 72 Days Alone in Wilderness

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

Scientists May Have Found a Better Way To Trim a Cat’s Nails

Trimming a cat’s nails is often a daunting affair for everyone involved. Most cats should have their nails trimmed every two to three weeks. Failing to do so leaves you and your furniture at the mercy of your kitty’s sharp claws.Specially designed to be smaller, cat nail clippers or scissors are commonly used to trim a cat’s nails, but they can be difficult to handle, especially if your cat doesn’t want to cooperate or is anxious. Additionally, there’s always a risk that you’ll end up scratched, bitten, and bleeding.This is where science can come in handy! Researchers from the University of California, Davis, are working with Sacramento SPCA to make nail trimming less stressful for cats and their owners. Jennifer Link, a Ph.D. student at the University of California, Davis, Animal Welfare Epi Lab, is working on a multistep protocol designed to desensitize the cats to handling and nail clipping. In mid-July, Link started to visit the Sacramento shelter five days a week for two hours to work on socializing rescued and surrendered cats to help them adjust to new people, situations, and environments. By the end of September, she had worked with more than 70 cats. “When people hear that I study cats, many ask if I can help them with nail trims,” said Link. According to Dan Marple, the animal welfare manager at the Sacramento Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, this research is vital to staff, donors, and volunteers because it can reduce the stress caused by nail trimming.“Any new protocols that increase the comfort and safe handling of the cats in our care will also improve their overall well-being and adoptability,” he added. Link’s research is promising because it incorporates cooperative care. This means that cats are allowed to decide how much they want to interact with the handler during the training process. Depending on their willingness to participate, the cats go through one of three scenarios with Link: a handling-only training protocol, a handling and nail-trimming protocol, or a control with no training and only a nail trim. Each interaction is recorded to be analyzed later. On the days when Link visits the shelter, the cats are removed from their cages and brought to a quiet room where Link is waiting, with a mat laid out before her. If a cat puts their front paws on the mat, they are given treats and cuddles. The idea is for cats to learn that Link interacts with them only when they put their paws on the mat. Once the cat leans this, Link proceeds with training protocols. Slowly, Link touches the cat’s legs, then the paws, and then the paws are gently squeezed. If the cat doesn’t resist, one nail is trimmed. The protocol builds on past steps and works up. When a cat goes through all the steps, they get a nail trim. If a cat doesn’t place their paws on the mat or rejects any step, Link stops the handling.“I think with cooperative care, it does seem to almost improve their trust in me,” Link explained. “They are more comfortable if we let them decide.”This research could make nail trimming at home much more comfortable for the cats and their owners. It can also decrease the number of visits to veterinary hospitals and clinics, where owners often seek help trimming their cats’ nails. The researchers still need to analyze the video sessions to finalize the protocol. And if the protocol is deemed helpful, they will share it with other shelters for more data.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

New Study Searches for the Secret Connection Between ‘Gifted’ Dogs

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.

Should My Dog Wear a Winter Coat?

As the temperatures drop and winter approaches, many pet parents face a common question: Should my dog wear a winter coat? It’s a valid question! After all, we bundle up before heading out into the ice and snow. Why shouldn’t our dogs? This article will explore the considerations, benefits, and potential downsides of winter coats for dogs. Plus, we’ll share the coats we use to keep our pups warm and cozy. Let’s get started… Do All Dogs Need a Coat in Winter? The short answer is no. Not all dogs need a winter coat to stay comfortable in the colder temperatures. In fact, some dogs will be more comfortable without a winter coat. That leaves us with one more question – how do you know if your dog will need a coat this season? Here are a few factors to consider: Breed & Coat LengthWhat breed or breed mix is your dog? Some dogs, like the Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, and Keeshond, were specifically bred to handle the colder temperatures. These dogs have thick double coats, including a water-resistant guard coat and a plush, warm undercoat. If you own one of these dogs, you may see them relaxing outside, happily napping in a snowbank. They thrive in cooler weather but struggle when the temperatures climb. On the other end of the spectrum, some dogs were bred to live in warmer climates. These dogs have short coats, offering little protection from the winter cold. Age Your dog’s age could make them more sensitive to changes in temperature, both heat and cold. If you have a young puppy or a senior dog, they may need a little extra care and attention. Not only do they feel cold faster, but the low temperatures could worsen the discomfort of a senior dog’s arthritis or other joint problems. Even if your dog once thrived in cold temperatures, they may struggle in their older years.Disease or Illness If your dog is currently living with a disease or illness, it can compromise their ability to regulate their body temperature effectively. Your dog’s condition can impact many aspects of their well-being. It may weaken their immune system, causing dehydration or interfering with proper circulation. Contact your veterinarian if you’re unsure whether your dog’s illness could impact their ability to handle the cold. Activity LevelAre you heading outside to hang out in your yard, or are you planning to engage in something more active like a hike or skijoring? As your dog’s muscles are engaged and working, they are producing heat that raises the body temperature. If your dog occasionally needs a light jacket, they may not need one during heavy activity. On the other hand, if your dog is usually okay when you’re going for a walk, they may need a light jacket or sweater if they are going to be standing around.

What Are Natural Methods for Flea and Tick Protection in Dogs?

If you have a dog – or ever had one – you know that fleas and ticks are amongst the most persistent and pesky pests that affect our pets. They can be notoriously difficult to get rid of, so more often than not, owners reach for harsher repellents based on insecticides in hopes they’ll be more effective. While they can help you resolve the issue faster, the ingredients in these flea and tick protection products can be dangerous for sensitive dogs – which is why many turn to gentler, natural methods of keeping these parasites at bay.6 Ways You Can Protect Your Dog from Fleas & Ticks Without Chemicals Protecting your dog from fleas and ticks is important for their health – at the very least. Not only that their bites are super irritating (fleas) but both of these pests can carry or cause a range of diseases and health issues, from coat and skin problems to more severe conditions, such as anemia or Lyme disease. Needless to say, this means that timely protection is imperative, and in case you spot any of these pests on your pet, you should get rid of them fast. While there are many commercial products available for flea and tick prevention, some dog owners prefer natural methods – here are 6 steps you should take to keep ticks and fleas away from your pet without resorting to insecticides:Regular Grooming: This comes as the first and foremost rule. Don’t neglect your pet’s hygiene. Frequent grooming helps you spot and remove fleas and ticks manually. Use a fine-toothed comb to check for pests, and make it a part of your regular grooming routine. Additionally, don’t forget about regular bathing. Some natural dog shampoos are formulated to eliminate fleas and ticks and act as repellents in between baths, such as  this one which contains essential oils such as peppermint, clove, cedarwood, etc, which act as natural insect repellents. However, remember not to bathe your pet too frequently, as it can leave their skin dry and flaky. 

Dogs Could Be Wagging Their Tails Because Ancient Humans Loved Rhythm

Doggos love to wag their tails and we love to see it. It is their way of expressing emotions, from unwavering joy and happiness to see you again after a long day at work to a shy greeting to a new face – there are many things a pooch can convey with a simple  tail wag. But have you ever wondered why they do it exactly? Why didn’t dogs evolve to, let’s say, use their ears for nonverbal communication with us? Researchers were wondering the exact same thing, and their latest studies could provide a key insight into why dogs started wagging their tails in the first place.Believe it or not, the origins of this action could potentially be traced to ancient humans who first domesticated dogs. And the study connects the human love of rhythm, with selective breeding and domestication!Dogs were first domesticated by humans sometime between 15,000 and 50,000 years ago. It was a long time ago when dogs first emerged from domesticated wolves and similar canines but some of their ancestral traits, like tail wagging, remain the same. And researchers could finally have an answer for this behavior.“We may not be able to take a time machine back to the beginning of the dog-human relationship, but we can look at dog behavior today in tandem with human behavior to try and understand what that domestication process looked like,” said Dr. Taylor Hersh from Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics in the Netherlands. “Tail wagging is a very apparent and interesting behavior to start with.”Of course, this is not the first such study, and in the past, many have questioned the wagging of tails. Previously, it was found that hand-reared dog pups will wag their tails far more often than hand-reared wolf pups, showing the clear difference between domesticated and wild animals. Likewise, it was discovered that dogs wag their tails to the right mostly in response to positive experiences, usually when seeing their owners. And they’d wag them to the left in potentially aggressive situations. And now, researchers linked this behavior to the ancient process of domestication. This means that dog tail wagging has developed because dogs have an inherent genetic link towards behaviors that humans want - like tameness and docility. “We put forth a new hypothesis that humans consciously or unconsciously selected for tail wagging during the domestication process because we are very attracted to rhythmic stimuli,” said Silvia Leonetti, another member of the team.Ancient humans had a very distinct attraction to rhythm and rhythmic actions, so there could be a very logical link here. Dr. Holly Root-Gutteridge, a dog researcher at the University of Lincoln, also proposed that tail wagging was developed during the long domestication process as an adaptation by the dogs, as humans likely found barking irritating. “We’re a highly visual species and may appreciate the rhythm, it’s an interesting thought that should be explored, though I’m not sure we’re really responding that much to it,” she said. What is more, she added that wolves too wag their tails in certain situations in the wild. “I suspect ancestral humans saw tail wags as a positive, easy to read sign in wolves, and developed it the way we talk with our hands – as a communicative gesture that we can easily understand.”

Why Is My Dog Licking and Chewing His Paws?

You might think it’s gross, but your pooch certainly doesn’t – canines are known to lick themselves as a way of grooming. While your dog might lick their body thoroughly to keep it clean, sometimes, their self-grooming can be abnormal. If you notice that your pet is licking or even chewing their paws obsessively, it should raise concern. This type of behavior might indicate an underlying medical issue, so here’s what you need to know before you phone your vet.Is It Normal for Dogs to Lick and Chew Their Paws?While some licking of their paws after they get dirty can be perfectly normal, constant licking or chewing of the paws is certainly not usual behavior. There could be several reasons behind this, and it could indicate that your attention and even intervention are needed. Here are some of the most common reasons why dogs lick and chew their paws.Allergies:  Allergies, including food allergies, environmental allergies (such as pollen or dust mites), and contact allergies (for example, from cleaning products or lawn chemicals), can lead to itching and discomfort in dogs. Paw licking and chewing can be a response to this itching. If you suspect that an allergy might be in question, don’t hesitate to visit your vet.Skin irritation or infection: If your dog's paws are red, swollen, or have an unpleasant odor, it may indicate a  skin infection or irritation. Bacterial or fungal infections, as well as foreign objects like splinters or thorns, can lead to serious issues down the road. Again, if you notice any of the above, it’s time to visit the vet.Dry or cracked paw pads: Dry or cracked paw pads can be uncomfortable for dogs. Licking and chewing may be their way of trying to soothe the discomfort. This happens to many dogs, and can be caused by their environment, the surface on which they walk, and many other things. Luckily, you can prevent this with paw wax that will create a barrier between the pads and the walking surface, or treat existing issues with paw butter that soothes and repairs the pads. This particular  2-in-1 paw butter and wax is a favorite of mine because it is made from all-natural ingredients and heals cracked paws in no time – while simultaneously preventing future irritation and dryness. 

Unexpected Things That Helped Me Cope With Loss of My 17-Year-Old Cat

Getting to share your life with a pet is truly a privilege, as there’s not much that can rival the sheer joy and genuine love these little creatures bring to us. But when the time comes to say goodbye, the weight of grief can feel overwhelming. In these moments, it feels like nothing can help lighten the load we carry, but it’s crucial to remember that the journey through pet loss is a shared experience among countless others who have navigated the same emotional terrain.I recently found myself grappling with the profound loss of my beloved four-legged companion, a 17-year-old cat called Luna. Luna was not just a pet; she was a loyal friend for more than half of my life, a source of comfort during challenging times, and a bundle of joy who brightened even the gloomiest days. When Luna passed away, a void opened up in my heart, leaving me adrift in a sea of grief.

Staff Sergeant Reunites With His Former K-9 Colleague

A retired military dog named Blek, got reunited with his former colleague Staff Sergeant Thomas Watkins, who used to be his handler at a duty station. Blek, who was named after the old English term for “black” or “inky” had quite a reputation among the handlers. Trainers who worked with the canine described him as challenging and tough to manage. But everything changed when Blek met Watkins. In an interview, Watkins told Good Morning America about his experience meeting Blek for the first time.“That was the issue that they were having,” said Watkins. “And so my kettle master pulled me in his office and was like, ‘Hey, man, I know you’re a new handler. But I feel like you’re up to this challenge.’”As the master predicted, Watkins and Blek bonded immediately.“We just connected right off the bat,” Watkins told the Good Morning America. “We truly understood each other… Another handler was out there with me, and he was like man like, ‘I just never seen this dog be so affectionate towards someone.’”Since the day they met, their relationship has grown stronger, making them suitable to carry out missions as a team at the station. “It’s such a beautiful experience, especially when you get a dog that has issues…And then you connect with that dog, and you get that dog to where they need to be. It’s such an awesome and rewarding experience,” explained Watkins. “The rest of the two and a half years that I worked [with] him from deployment to secret service missions all over the world, we had no issues whatsoever,” he added. Unfortunately, the time Blek spent with his handle ended when Watkins got transferred to another station. Blek was left behind to work with other handlers who found the task challenging. According to Carlton Isaacson, a former military dog trainer, things weren’t looking good for Blek.That’s when Project K-9 Hero got interested in Blek’s case. According to their site, this non-profit organization wants to honor military working dogs and police K-9s in retirement. The organization’s purpose is to provide assistance with medical costs, adoption, rehabilitation, food, and end of duty services to provide the best quality of life and to give these four-legged heroes the retirement they deserve. Speaking highly of the non-profit, Isaacson said the project “was a game changer” adding, “They were able to provide him everything that he needed to be safe.”Thanks to Project K-9 Hero, Watkins was able to adopt his old four-legged friend.“I’m so thankful for those guys out there that they were able to take him and hold him until I got to a place where I can truly take care of him and allow him to just be a dog on his retirement,” said Watkins.In addition to allowing him to adopt Blek, Project K-9 Hero had another surprise for Watkins - the organization will cover all of Blek’s food and veterinary care costs for the entirety of the dog’s life. Talking about his feelings about this special reunion, Watkins said: “I am overwhelmed with happiness. That dog is dear to my heart and he made me the handler and trainer that I am today…It looks like [Blek] hasn’t skipped a beat. He’s happy. He looks healthy and I am just glad to be here right now.”“I’m so thankful for that dog, and that’s why I’m excited to actually bring him home with me to live out his life.”It’s heartwarming to see these two heroes reunited and ready to face new adventures together, as a team. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What is Red Light Therapy for Dogs?

When your dog gets injured or is recovering from a routine surgery, it can be difficult to keep them comfy and to help heal their injuries faster at the same time. However, innovative red light therapy for dogs proved to be a safe and efficient treatment for a variety of ailments, from skin inflammation to wound healing, and much, much more.Red light therapy is also known as photobiomodulation therapy, and it involves the use of red or near-infrared light to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation. The reason for its effectiveness is the specific wavelengths that are absorbed by the mitochondria in cells, which are considered the cell’s powerhouse. As the mitochondria absorb the “red light”, the absorption stimulates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is popularly called the “energy currency of cells”. The entire process then increases blood flow to the treated area, stimulating faster healing, and pain relief. What’s so great about red light therapy is that it is not invasive, and all that is needed is a specialized device that emits specific wavelengths of light.Red light therapy treatment sessions usually last from a few minutes to around 20 minutes, depending on the condition being treated and the specific device used. The frequency of sessions may vary, with some dogs benefiting from daily treatments initially, followed by less frequent “maintenance” sessions. Of course, your veterinarian can advise you on the appropriate treatment procedure for your dog's needs – if you’re unsure if red light therapy is the right choice for your dog, be sure to consult an expert before taking any steps.Of course, while you shouldn’t do anything without your vet’s approval, a great thing about this treatment is that it is entirely safe. When used appropriately, it has no risks for your dog. The secret is in the light energy that does not generate heat at all, eliminating any risk of burning or tissue damage. Naturally, it goes without saying that you should closely follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific device you are using. 

Human-Cat Amputee Duo Teams Up To Help Others Through Animal Therapy

Juanita Mengel from Amanda, Ohio, and her five-year-old dilute tortoiseshell cat Lola-Pearl, make a unique therapy team. The 67-year-old Mengel is missing a leg, and her fluffy feline is missing a left hind leg. This special duo is one of an estimated 200 therapy cat teams registered in the US through Pet Partners. This nonprofit organization puts together owners and their pets as volunteer teams. They aim to provide animal-assisted therapy in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. “A therapy animal is an animal who’s been assessed based on their ability to meet new people and not just tolerate the interaction but actively enjoy it,” said Taylor Chastain Griffin, the national director of animal-assisted interventions advancement at Pet Partners. This organization registered nine different species of animals as therapy animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, birds, horses, mini pigs, alpacas, and lamas. Therapy cats are less common than therapy dogs, and people are often surprised to see cats in this role. However, Griffin studies the impact of therapy cats and emphasizes the importance of cats in therapy teams. There’s a lot of research on other therapy animals, especially dogs, so there is often a ‘shock factor’ associated with therapy cats because many people don’t know these felines exist. “They go into a setting and people are like ‘Whoa, there’s a cat on a leash. What’s happening?’” said Griffin. According to her, cats inspire people to connect to them in a way that’s not seen with other kinds of therapy animals. Juanita Mengel knew that her cat Lola-Pear would be an excellent therapy animal a month after she adopted her. The feline’s therapeutic potential became clear after Mengel took her to an amputee conference. “She was so good with people I just knew she would be a good therapy cat,” said Mengel. “People really were attracted to her, too.”During a recent limb loss support group, Mengel pushed Lola-Pearl around in a cat stroller labeled “Therapy Cat’, so participants could pet the cat as she woke from a nap. When she wasn’t sitting in a stroller, Lola-Pearl could be found brushing against participants’ legs or cuddling in their laps, bringing a smile to the face of every person she decided was worthy of her company. “She’s very intuitive of people,” said Mengel.Although Lola-Pearl is very special, she isn’t the only cat Mengel owns. Mengel, who lost her leg after years of surgeries following a near-fatal car accident, is a mom to seven cats, most of whom have disabilities. “They find you, you don’t find them,” she added.Lola-Pearl was only a few weeks old when she was found with her back legs completely twisted together. The kitten was unable to walk and was brought to Mengel’s friend at a shelter in Missouri. Unfortunately, the vets there couldn’t help the feline. The shelter located a specialist in Iowa who was able to splint Lola-Pearl’s legs in order to save them. However, it was clear that the left hind leg was beyond saving and the vets decided to amputate. Mengel adopted Lola-Pearl after she recovered from the surgery and they formed the unique therapy team. After everything Mengel has been through, she is extremely grateful for Lola-Pearl and appreciates all the good work they do together. “It’s a really rewarding experience,” she said. “I get just as much out of it as the people that I visit.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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