Actress Amanda Seyfried Struts Her Mutt For Rescue Pups

White Sox’s Bark at the Park Sets Out to Break a Guinness World Reco

Mark September 13th on your calendar if you’re near Chicago. The White Sox will be trying to break a Guinness record for most dogs at a sporting event. There’s nothing more fun than taking your dog with you wherever you go. And whoever made policies that dogs aren’t allowed at events – well, that person must not have ever been blessed by the love of a dog. The White Sox may be changing all that with their upcoming event on Tuesday, Sept. 13th in Chicago. Fans are asked to bring their dog with them to this baseball game. The White Sox are attempting to set the Guinness World Record for the most dogs attending a sporting event. Related link: Actress Amanda Seyfried Struts Her Mutt for Rescue Pups And with all that room in the field and on the premises, they could literally get thousands of baseball fans and their dogs. Some fans may even bring two or three dogs. The event is called Bark at the Park and is being rolled out by AvoDerm Natural Pet Foods, Nylabone and PetSmart. You can’t just show up on the day of the event; you need to pre-purchase tickets. This is important because in the event that they don’t pre-sell enough tickets to come near the record, the Guinness officials trip will be cancelled. (They are quite expensive and have to fly out from the UK.) Related link: Petco Teams Up With NBC Universal to Clear the Shelters Actually, this type of event isn’t something new and this very year, some other attempts were made to break the record. In May, at the Arizona Diamondbacks game, dogs were herded into the field when the baseball team faced the Colorado Rockies. They needed 1,000 dogs to get the record – but failed. Regardless of whether enough people come out to break the world record, it’s going to be a very fun event, sitting there with your dog watching the event together. I really believe some dogs will follow the action on the field as the baseball players run from base to base. And look out if a ball happens to fly into the stadium and there are some Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds. There might be a showdown for that ball! At these large events, what happens is the dogs are counted when they come in the entrance of the field. The Guinness official then makes sure there’s no dog tampering with numbers and skewing results (Gosh, we need them at the polls in November!) and decides by the end of the second inning whether or not the world record is awarded. How fun is it to know you were part of a world record in the making? It’s a legacy for you and your dog. Imagine telling your kids, “Our dog is famous – he’s a world record holder!” Hey, if you are anywhere near Chicago, bring your dog – or your neighbor’s dog to the event. Dogs are free and tickets are $20 for each human – you can pre-order tickets at the Chicago White Sox’s website. We’ll keep you posted about whether or not they made the world record.

3 Heartwarming Stories of Rescue Dogs Finding Their Forever Homes

Every year, countless dogs find themselves in shelters, each with a unique story and a longing for a loving home.Luckily, many of these pets find their forever home and today we're going to take a look at three of these heartwarming stories.

Is Your Dog Sleeping Too Much? Here Are Some Tricks to Beating Boredom

(photo credit: Elena Lozu / shutterstock.com)Full disclosure: I had always lived with cats. And boy, do they like to sleep. So, when I adopted my two Schnoodles seven years ago, I anticipated a fun surge of energy in my home. I expected them to be alert and moving throughout the house continually. Someone at the door? They’re on it. The fridge door opens? They’re right there to check out the situ. Fast forward, and… not so much. The reality?  I was amazed by how much they liked to snooze (and snore, but that’s another story).Who knew that adult dogs sleep an average of 11 hours a day? Not quite as much as a feline who can clock up to 15 hours of power napping, but pretty dang close.Now, if your dog is creeping north of 11 hours, it could be cause for concern. Issues like diabetes or painful ailments such as arthritis, and even hypothyroidism may need to be ruled out by your veterinarian. But another cause for why your little buddy is sleeping so much could be depression. And that’s something you can do something about. You see, a good mood booster for any dog can be regular exercise and sufficient mental stimulation to keep him well-occupied throughout the day.Let’s talk about that last one. For me, there is one common denominator that will instantly engage a napping dog. Food. And when they have to make an effort to locate it, they’re now intrigued. Add in one more element – they have to work for it – and I’m now ticking that mental stimulation box.I know with my, now trio of pooches, they’re looking for something fun yet relatively easy. It has to appeal to their love of foraging (they all have that Schnauzer hunt drive) as well as their relatively short attention span. Meaning they won’t work for long if a reward is not proffered early into the quest and at regular intervals thereafter.With this in mind, there are a few options out there that don’t take a lot of effort to figure out. Best of all, these mentally stimulating dog toys net your buddy immediate gratification (treats) to get him started.

How Do I Know If My Dog Has Tapeworm?

It’s never fun to think about your dog having parasites, but unfortunately, they’re a common part of pet ownership - especially when it comes to tapeworms. These flat, segmented parasites like to take up residence in a dog’s intestines, and while they might not cause dramatic symptoms at first, they’re definitely something to catch and treat as early as possible. So how can you tell if your dog has tapeworm? Here’s what to watch for and what to do next.Spotting the Signs: What Tapeworms Look LikeOne of the clearest signs your dog has tapeworms doesn’t come from their behavior - it comes from what you see. Tapeworms often break into segments, and those segments exit the body through your dog’s poop or around their anus.They look like:Tiny white or beige rice-like grainsDried yellow specks stuck to fur around the rearWriggling flat pieces in fresh stoolIf you see something that matches this description, it’s time to call the vet.Other Signs Your Dog Might Have TapewormsWhile many dogs don’t show strong symptoms at first, some do develop signs of discomfort or irritation. These can include: Scooting: Dragging their rear on the groundExcessive licking or biting at their hind endIncreased appetite without weight gainMild digestive upset, like loose stoolsIn rare cases - especially if the infestation is severe or prolonged - dogs may become lethargic, lose weight, or develop a dull coat.How Do Dogs Get Tapeworms?Most dogs get tapeworms by swallowing fleas infected with tapeworm larvae. This can happen when grooming or biting at itchy skin. It’s one reason why good flea control is essential - even if your dog isn’t scratching.Other potential sources include:Eating raw or undercooked meatScavenging on wildlife or garbageContact with contaminated environmentsGetting a DiagnosisIf you suspect your dog has tapeworms, your vet can confirm it through a stool sample. Bring a fresh sample to your appointment if possible. Sometimes visual identification of segments is enough, but lab analysis can also help identify other types of intestinal parasites.Treatment Is Simple - and EffectiveThe good news? Tapeworms are typically easy to treat with a deworming medication, usually given as a tablet or topical solution. One or two doses are often enough to clear the worms, but your vet may recommend a follow-up dose or test depending on your dog’s situation.

Is a Cat or a Dog the Right Pet for You?

Choosing between a cat and a dog is one of the most common dilemmas for prospective pet owners. Both animals offer companionship, lots of joy, and unconditional love, but their personalities, care needs, and lifestyle compatibility can be hugely different. Here are important things to consider before making your decision. 

Dogs That Survived Rescue Plane Crash, Begin Their New Lives

Hero pilot was devoted to helping pets in crisis find new homes.

Shelters Seeking Fosters - Could You Help Raise a Newborn Kitten?

T'is the season for shelters to be seeking out kitten fosters for the tiniest kittens. Do you have what it takes?

Its True! Some Cats Purr More Than Others

Kyoto University determines how nature versus nurture plays a role in how vocal your feline is.

3 Fun Games to Keep Your Dog Cool This Summer

Long walks and high-energy fetch sessions are generally off the cards when temperatures soar, but that doesn’t mean playtime has to take a backseat.Here are three fun, simple games that help your dog stay active and cool when the weather’s blazing.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

Why Does My Pet Stare at Me While I’m Eating?

So here I was, minding my own business, eating a perfectly ordinary sandwich on the sofa, when I felt it: the stare.You know the one.I looked up… and there was Jasper. Sitting silently. Eyes locked on my every move. Not blinking. Not breathing (probably). Just channeling all his hope, energy, and emotional manipulation into my tuna melt.And the worst part? I felt guilty.Like I was doing something deeply selfish by… eating my own lunch?If you’ve ever found yourself apologizing to your pet mid-bite or accidentally dropping a bit of food you “definitely didn’t mean to share,” you’re not alone. So let’s talk about it: why do our pets stare at us like they’re starring in a heartbreaking indie film while we eat?

Grooming Tools for that Self-Sufficient Feline

(photo credit: lucky_pics / shutterstock.com)Do you brush your cat? Let me rephrase that. Does your cat let you brush her? Because if she’s longer-haired she should be brushed daily – regardless of how annoyed she becomes with you. And for shorter-haired felines, at least once a week to keep both cat and home, reasonably free from flying fur.But there’s more because beyond ensuring your fluffball looks her very best, brushing out all that loose fur stimulates the natural oils for a healthy, shiny coat and reduces the likelihood of her developing those dread hairballs. Yes, due to how frequently a cat licks and preens her fluffy coat throughout the day, hairballs are not uncommon. At best, they pass through her system and straight into the litter box. More typically, they build in her digestive tract until they’re too large to move through her. At this point, she regurgitates them back up as a slimy mass of hair you’re almost certain to step in. And then there are the extreme cases where the mass grows to become a solid blockage that requires veterinary intervention. So, let’s not let it get to that point.If you’re trying to keep your feline well-groomed but she won’t tolerate brushing for more than a few seconds, what can you do? Don’t give up for starters. Choose to move through the process in increments. Start with gentle brushing in the areas she approves of, then gradually increase the coverage while praising and offering treats along the way. At the same time, build the duration up from just a few seconds to a few minutes.Now, kitty may well have plans for primping that don’t include you. When that’s the case, a little hands-off assistance may be just the ticket and thankfully the pet industry has developed some cat-friendly tools your feline will actually enjoy using.

Dog Skittish Around Loud Noise? Sound Cancelling Headgear Works!

What Are Signs of Illness in Pet Turtles?

Turtles are unique and fascinating pets, valued for their calm demeanor and long lifespans. However, one challenge that turtle owners face is detecting illness early. In the wild, turtles instinctively hide signs of weakness to avoid predators. As a result, pet turtles often show only subtle symptoms when they are unwell.Becoming familiar with your turtle’s normal behavior, appetite, and appearance is essential. Early identification of illness greatly improves the chances of successful treatment, so here are the key signs to watch for.Changes in AppetiteA sudden loss of appetite is often one of the earliest and most noticeable signs of illness. Healthy turtles typically eat with enthusiasm, especially when offered favored foods.If a turtle begins refusing meals, particularly favorite treats, it should be taken seriously. While minor fluctuations in appetite can occur due to changes in temperature or environment, persistent refusal to eat may signal infections, digestive issues, or stress.

Do Dogs Need Vitamin C?

Vitamin C is well known for its essential role in human health, contributing to immune function, collagen synthesis, and antioxidant protection. However, the nutritional needs of dogs differ significantly from ours - so do they need vitamin C in their diet, or do their bodies produce enough on their own? Can Dogs Synthesize Vitamin C?Unlike humans, dogs possess the enzyme L-gulonolactone oxidase in their livers, enabling them to synthesize vitamin C endogenously. Under normal, healthy conditions, this metabolic pathway is sufficient to meet a dog’s physiological needs without the necessity for additional dietary vitamin C.When Might Supplementation Be Considered?While healthy dogs typically do not require extra vitamin C, there are specific conditions where supplementation might be beneficial:

Hiking With a Mini? These Dog Slings Keep It Fun.

(photo credit: kasarp studio / shutterstock.com)Rain, sun, snow, wind… regardless of the weather, getting out with the fur kids for a little fresh air and exercise is non-negotiable. And for anyone who has co-habited with one of the larger or high-energy breeds you’ll already know that they need a longer trek to work off excess energy and stay healthy and fit. That said, there are many other factors to consider that may require you to adapt your lifestyle to match that of your pooch.Let’s start at the beginning. If you’re unsure how much exercise is enough, take your cue from your pet’s size and breed requirements. For dogs with terrier DNA running through his veins, he’s always ready to run, leap, chase a ball and keep you on your toes as he gets in a good workout. Other, larger breeds may not be as quick on their feet so scheduling a good long walk into their daily routine is the way to go in order to help maintain both their physical and mental well-being.And there may be other signs you need to heed as you schedule exercise. As your little buddy ages, you’ll recognize him slowing down or losing enthusiasm when you pull out his lead. That indicates it’s time to shorten or adapt your walks accordingly. Similarly, if he’s working through an injury or ailment, respecting his exercise boundaries helps him heal and you earn his trust through patience.While these are just a few things to consider before heading out on a walk, there is one more. It’s your pet’s size. You see, those pint-sized pooches that weigh in around the 10-pound mark also need to get out. And yes, just like the big dogs, they want to strut, stretch, enjoy mental stimulation, and bark at other dogs when they hit the bricks with mom or dad. The dilemma, of course, is knowing how far is too far. I once completed a 5k run where a Chihuahua on a leash was in the lead. When we returned to our starting point, he was still in the lead. You know your pet, you know what they think they can do, and you also know when to call it a day. This leads to the challenge of including them on those longer hikes or more difficult treks you enjoy but that might be too much for little legs.The solution isn’t to compromise your outdoor activity but to adapt. And that’s where a pet sling features big.

Why Is My Dog Scooting on the Floor?

It starts with a little shuffle. Then a curious drag across the carpet. Maybe even right in front of your guests - and suddenly, your dog is scooting their bottom across the floor, leaving you amused, confused, or slightly horrified.But here’s the thing: while it might look funny, scooting is usually a sign that something’s bothering your dog. It’s their way of saying, "Hey, something doesn’t feel right back there."Let’s take a closer look at what causes this odd behavior - and how you can help your pup feel more comfortable.What Is Scooting, Exactly?Scooting is when a dog drags their rear end along the floor, usually while in a sitting or crouched position. It's not something dogs do just for fun - it’s almost always a response to itching, discomfort, or irritation in the anal area.If it happens once in a blue moon, it might not be anything serious. But if your dog scoots regularly, it’s time to dig a little deeper.Common Reasons Why Dogs Scoot1. Anal Gland Problems (The #1 Culprit)Dogs have two small anal glands located on either side of their anus. These glands naturally release a strong-smelling fluid when your dog poops - part of how dogs mark territory.Sometimes, those glands don’t empty properly and become impacted, inflamed, or infected. This can lead to:Itching or swelling around the anusScooting or licking at the areaDiscomfort when sitting or poopingA groomer or vet can usually express the glands manually. If there’s an infection, your dog may need medication.2. Worms, Especially TapewormsTapeworm segments look like tiny rice grains and may appear around your dog’s rear or in their stool. They can cause serious itching in that area, leading to scooting.Treatment is a deworming medication from your vet that can clear it up quickly, so at least that’s simple!3. Allergies (Food or Environmental)If your dog has allergies, it might show up as:Red or itchy skinFrequent ear infectionsLicking paws or chewing at their feetAnd yes - scooting, due to irritated skin near the rearYour vet can help identify whether food or environmental triggers are at play, and recommend an allergy-friendly diet or medication.4. Dirty Fur or Foreign ObjectsSometimes the cause is just... well, a little mess. Long-haired dogs are especially prone to getting dried feces or debris stuck in their fur, which can cause irritation.A gentle cleaning or a trim around the sanitary area can do wonders.

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.

Representatives Propose Law to Ban Sale of Pets in Connecticut

New York state already enacted a law that bans the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in pet stores, and now a similar law has been proposed in Connecticut.