Blue Fronted Amazon

by Angela Vuckovic

Published: May 14th, 2018

About Blue Fronted Amazon

Size

15 to 16 inches

Lifespan

40+ years

Bird Species

Amazon Parrot

Colors

Green, yellow and blue markings

Sounds

Vocal, mimicking, talkative

Interaction

Social, energetic, playful

Comparable Breeds

Senegal Parrot, Eclectus Parrot

Blue Fronted Amazon General Info

Like all the other Amazon parrots, the Blue Fronted breed is a popular and widely loved pet bird. With their fun and energetic personality, their fantastic talent for talking and quirky, goofy behavior, the Blue Fronted Amazon parrots have a lot of traits that you will love. With a lengthy lifespan of 40 and more years, they are prized as companion pets for singles, as well as families, as these lovely avians can offer a lifelong friendship.

All of the Amazon parrots are popular companions and pet birds. They are fun and playful talkers.

Native Region/Natural Habitat

Home for these parrots is in South America. This bird lives in the semi-humid woodlands, savannas and palm groves in a vast territory and parts of Paraguay, Brazil, Argentina, and Bolivia. With a thriving of a small feral population of Blue Fronted Amazon, an unusual new home was found far away from South American rainforests – in Stuttgart, Germany. What started as a few loose and feral birds grew into a successful colony in the town’s greener, less populous areas.

Overall Description

These Amazon parrots are fairly large and robust, as many of their cousins. Adults will reach an average length of 15 to 16 inches (38 to 40 centimeters), and up to 14 ounces (400 grams) in weight. They can be recognized by their rounded and proportionate head and beak, as well as a somewhat short tail. Keep in mind that there is no visual method to tell apart the males and females – they look exactly the same!

Speech and Sounds

The Blue Fronted Amazon is one of the quieter parrots in the family. Like all the other Amazons, it retains a good capability to mimic words and will memorize common greetings and phrases. They’ll mimic these in their clear, loud voice. They will also chirp and tweet on their own, but not to a great extent. In general, they are not a noisy parrot and will be an acceptable apartment pet.

Colors

It’s quite a whirlwind of colors when it comes to The Blue Fronted Amazon’s plumage, and most of the combinations are full of tropical tones. The body is mainly green, tinged with yellow undertones. The face, mostly around the eyes, is bright yellow and the forehead is colored in a distinctive patch of turquoise, giving them their name, as well as a unique look. Small yellow and red patches on the top and bottom of the wings complete this exotic and colorful look.

Full of tropical, warm tones, and with their unique blue forehead, The Blue Fronted Amazon is a beautiful breed.

Care and Feeding

There is a great variety of commercial seed and pellet mixes that will be perfect for your Amazon parrot pet, and will entirely imitate their diet in the wild. You will also want to supplement it with a varied selection of fresh fruits, fresh green vegetables and cooked rice or chicken for an excellent source of protein. A cuttlebone will serve as a good source of calcium and a way for your pet to dull its powerful beak.

Health and Common Conditions

The Blue Fronted Amazon parrots are notorious for their endurance and ability to adapt. Thanks to their stocky build and large size, they won’t often get ill. Of course, you will need to provide adequate care and attention. A priority should be good hygiene and regular showers. Neglected birds will be prone to many diseases.

Another thing to notice is their necessity for exercise. Don’t confine these large birds to a cramped cage, and allow a lot of time to play around the house.

Plenty of time outside of the cage will give your pet a chance to bond with you, and satisfy their playful nature.

Personality & Behavior

If you provide them with enough toys, your pet will have no trouble entertaining themselves. Their playful persona allows them to sing, play and move about even when alone. You should still provide them with enough attention and interactions, creating a deeper bond with your pet bird. These parrots are known for their intelligence and a great ability to learn new tricks. You will quickly fall in love with all their goofy and comical quirks. All in all, the Blue Fronted Amazon is a well-rounded bird, calmer than most others, and it will make a wonderful lifelong companion to a devoted owner.

Photo credit: Andrew Burgess/Shutterstock; aaltair/Shutterstock; Jana Vodickova/Shutterstock

Angela Vuckovic

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

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White Fronted Amazon

White Fronted Amazon General Info The diverse and large family of Amazon parrots is full of unique and lovely birds. The White fronted Amazon is one of the most attractive ones in this family, and a fantastic, entertaining pet. It’s also one of the smallest when compared to its closely related cousins. But what it lacks in size, it makes up with personality, affectionate nature, and endlessly fun behavior. With a relatively affordable price and an impressive intelligence, the White fronted Amazon could be a perfect choice for a new pet parrot. White Fronted Amazons are the smallest in their family but have a great personality to make up for it.

Fall Safety Tips for Dogs

As the leaves change color and temperatures drop, it’s important to remember that the fall season can also introduce unique safety concerns for our pups. From seasonal health concerns to potential accidents, there are many risks to consider. Luckily, there are also precautions you can take to ensure your dog stays safe and healthy throughout the autumn months.In this blog post, I’ll introduce you to the most common fall dangers as well as essential fall safety tips to reduce the risk, allowing you and your dog to enjoy the season and all your favorite fall activities.Watch for Signs of Seasonal AllergiesJust like us, our dogs can suffer from an increased risk of seasonal allergies in the spring and fall seasons. This could include fall flowers, ragweed, dust mites, mold, and more. For dogs, the most common signs of seasonal allergies include: Licking excessively (especially their paws) Itchy, red, irritated skin Excessive scratching or biting at themselves Hair lossEar infections Head shaking or rubbing their head against things Red, watery eyes Coughing or difficulty breathing While seasonal allergies aren’t a life-threatening health risk, anyone who has suffered from them will tell you they are not pleasant. If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian to discuss your options. They may recommend products that can provide much-needed relief, like medicated shampoos, ear solutions, dietary supplements, and other simple solutions. Your dog will thank you! Be Careful with Corn CobsOne of the common autumn-themed decorations, you can purchase decorative corn on the cob at most grocery stores and farmer’s markets. While this is a great way to celebrate the season with decorations that can later be composted, making it more environmentally friendly, one major concern – corn cobs.Your dog may be tempted to nibble on that tasty corn, but they can’t properly digest the cob. This means ingesting a corn cob puts your dog at risk of suffering an obstruction in the digestive tract. These obstructions are painful and, unless treated quickly (often with surgery), can be fatal.If you are determined to use corn in your autumn decorations, ensure they are secured up and out of your dog’s reach.Decorate with Your Dog in MindSpeaking of decorations, switching from a natural solution (like corn) to commercial decorations doesn’t mean you’re eliminating all the risks. Many different seasonal decorations will come out this time of year – lights, fog machines, candles, inflatables, and more. Each of these items carries a risk you should be aware of.Anything with small pieces that may be ingested could pose a risk of obstruction. Additionally, if you are decorating with electrical components, pay careful attention to the location of electrical cords. Your dog may chew a cord, suffer an electrical shock, or become entangled in the cord.Finally, anything that contains a real flame should be used with care. One of the most recognizable images associated with Halloween is the glowing grin of a Jack-o-lantern, but if you’re lighting that grin with a real candle, you could be setting yourself up for trouble. Even if your dog shows no interest in trying to chew on or eat the pumpkin itself, there is the risk they will bump into it or knock it over. The same goes for open candles. This carries a risk of burns and the possibility of fires being started in or around your home.This doesn’t mean you can’t decorate for the season, just that you need to take a little extra care in making decorating decisions. Take a moment to view assess your decorations from your dog’s point of view, especially if you have a young and curious puppy. This may mean sitting on the ground for a moment to see if there are risks you didn’t notice when standing over them.Think Twice About that Halloween CostumeSpeaking of the holidays, are you considering dressing your dog up for Halloween? There is nothing wrong with including your dog in the family costume plans, but take care when choosing what they will wear. Avoid any costumes that contain small parts that could be ripped off and ingested. Additionally, steer clear of costumes with strings that could get wrapped around their necks or get caught on furniture, fences, and other outside objects.Carefully consider your dog’s comfort with various types of clothing. Are they okay with wearing something on their head? Most dogs aren’t, and that’s okay! If that’s the case, opt for a costume that doesn’t require a headpiece.If you have a dog who is resistant to wearing any type of clothing (some dogs even struggle with wearing harnesses), you could always play it safe and select a Halloween-themed bandana or a spooky seasonal collar.Watch Out for Toxic MushroomsIt’s mushroom season, one of the familiar signs that fall is here. While most mushrooms you will encounter are either non-toxic or will have minimal impact on your dog’s health, there are a few seriously toxic mushrooms that can be found across the United States and around the globe. The problem is that your dog likely isn’t a master in mushroom identification.Whether you plan on taking a fall hiking trip with your canine companion by your side or just hanging out in the backyard, always keep your eyes open for mushrooms. Add the number for the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (1-888-426-4435) to your phone so you can access it quickly in an emergency. After all, accidents happen even to the most diligent and responsible pet parents.

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Can Dogs Get Concussions?

When you combine high energy levels with clumsiness – or simple lack of cautiousness – you get your average dog’s personality. It’s no secret that canines are usually very playful and can easily get themselves in trouble because of it, but sometimes silly accidents can have greater consequences, such as a head injury. If your pet has bumped their head during rambunctious playtime, you might be worrying about a potential concussion. To cut things short, yes, dogs can get a concussion, but not every little head injury will cause one – read on for more details, symptoms, and advice on how to best handle things when your dog hits their head.Can Dogs Get Concussions? Symptoms, Causes, And TreatmentIf a dog hits their head, they can get a concussion – if the blow is a bit more severe, it can cause the brain to move rapidly within the skull, leading to a concussion. Depending on how hard the dog hit his head, there can be a variety of symptoms and consequences of a concussion. To ensure the best outcome for your four-legged friend, it is important that you know how to treat a concussion, how your pet is affected, and what symptoms to watch out for. There are numerous ways in which a dog can get a concussion. Commonly, these are falls and collisions, often during high speed running. A dog may fall from a moderate height, for example from a staircase, from the bed, or a small ledge. Similarly, they can run very fast and accidentally collide with a stationary object, such as a table leg or a wall. Of course, they can also be injured in car accidents, whether in or outside of a car. A sudden jolt or a hard impact can quickly lead to a concussion. It is one of the reasons why it’s important to follow safety precautions when driving with your dog and use a crash-tested car harness for dogs to minimize the effect of sudden braking or collision. Lastly, a dog can injure its head when fighting another animal or is hit with something hard – a falling branch, a rock, or a ball.

Because You Want Only Premium Stocking Stuffers for the Fur Kids

(photo credit: AnEduard / shutterstock.com)There are loads of ways you can celebrate the holidays with your fur kid this year but nothing quite beats the “morning of”. That’s when ribbons and tissue wrap fly and the kids are squealing with joy as they open their gifts and gorge on treats versus breakfast. If your household includes a furry critter or two, you’ve no doubt noticed how they like to be in on the action. They gather close to observe and always find a way to inject themselves into this high-energy spectacle. Am I right?So, why not take it to the next level for them? Have them join in the excitement with their own gifts. And when I say gifts, I mean crazy fun stocking stuffers that will keep them entertained for the rest of the day. Or at least until the turkey comes out of the oven.Now, I’m not talking about those pre-packaged plastic options stuffed with random toys and stale treats. You can do better than that for your little buddies and this is exactly why we’ve assembled a list of uniquely special goodies that will have your pet counting the sleeps before Christmas.

If You Have More Than One Cat In The Family, You Need This Product!

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Viral TikTok Video Shares the Joy of a Rescue Dog Reunited with Friend

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Can I Get a Dog or Cat if I Have Allergies?

Your Environment and Pet AllergiesIn addition to responding to allergens directly from the pet, you must also consider how your home environment can contribute to your allergies. This will be particularly important when we discuss ways to reduce the problem and live happily with a pet.Take a moment to consider the surfaces in your home that could collect or transfer allergens. For example, carpets and rugs are notorious for collecting pet dander. They are also more challenging to clean than hardwood or tile floors. Beyond the flooring, this can also include bedding you are using for your pet, furniture your pet is allowed on, and even the toys they are given to play with.This isn’t to say that you must eliminate all surfaces that could contribute to your allergies. However, you should be aware of them so you can strategically reduce the risk. More on that to follow…The Best Pets for People with AllergiesYou may have heard the buzz about “hypoallergenic” pets and wondered if that’s the solution you have been looking for. The idea of an allergy-free dog or cat breed is tempting; I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t. Unfortunately, contrary to what you’ve been told, truly hypoallergenic pets don’t exist. There are, however, some pets that are far less likely to trigger an allergic reaction.Selecting the best dog or cat is easier when you’ve already gone through the process of being allergy tested. That way, you know precisely what to be on the lookout for. Some breeds are known to produce or release less dander into the environment, while others drool less.Dog breeds recommended for people with allergies include: Poodle Schnauzer Portuguese Water Dog Bichon Frise MalteseThese dog breeds are favorites of those with allergies primarily because they don’t shed as much as others. Several have curled coats, like the Poodle and Portuguese Water Dog, which not only shed less but can also trap dander and hair in the coat, reducing the amount released into your home.Mixed-breed dogs that include one or several of these breeds may also offer the same benefits; however, it’s not guaranteed. A poodle mix, for example, may inherit the poodle coat or the coat associated with another breed in the mix. This isn’t to say that a mixed-breed dog won’t be a good fit for your home; you just need to be aware of this to assess whether a dog you plan to adopt has the characteristics you need.Similarly, experts recommend cat breeds with shorter coats when selecting a cat. Some breeds are nearly hairless, reducing the spread of allergens as much as possible. Recommended cats for people with allergies include: Sphynx Devonshire Rex Cornish Rex Bengal Russian Blue

Can Dogs Get Hiccups?

Nobody likes hiccups, least of all dogs! That’s right – dogs can get hiccups just like humans. Those pesky little rhythmic contractions of the diaphragm can go on forever, producing that classic “hic” sound and annoying everyone, starting with the one who is hiccuping, even when it’s your pooch. If you are surprised to learn that dogs can get hiccups, read on to find out what causes it and how to stop it.Why Do Dogs Get Hiccups?Hiccups are not a serious issue and they occur in dogs for the same reasons they appear in humans. They are brought about by an involuntary spasm of the diaphragm muscle. This is immediately followed by a sudden closure of the vocal cords, resulting in the classic hiccup sound. But still, there are several reasons why these spasms might occur. Here are just a few:Eating too quickly:If your pet consumes water or food very quickly, they might swallow air as well. The excess air can irritate the diaphragm and result in hiccups.Too much excitement or stress:When a dog is nervous, too excited, or in a stressful situation, they can also hiccup. This most often occurs in puppies, who are generally much more excitable than adult dogs. Digestive upset:Dogs are voracious eaters and won’t be picky about their food. Sometimes, however, they can have digestive issues such as indigestion and gas. This then irritates the diaphragm, leading to hiccups. This is the most common occurrence, and results from the dog eating something that doesn’t really agree with their stomach – if you have an indiscriminate eater in your household, it pays to have activated charcoal on hand to ease their tummy troubles.

Are Bernedoodles High Maintenance?

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Can Parrots Overheat? Keeping Your Pet Bird Cool in the Summer

With the summer temperatures steadily soaring, all pet owners need to be extra attentive about the weather and always make sure their little friends are not overheating. Parrots, like all birds, are sensitive to changes in temperature. While they are naturally adapted to warm climates, excessive heat can pose serious health risks. Understanding how to keep your pet parrot cool during the hot summer months is crucial for their well-being.How To Keep Your Pet Bird Cool in the SummerIt is important to know that parrots regulate their body temperature through their respiratory system. They do not sweat like humans; instead, they pant to release heat. Overheating, or hyperthermia, occurs when a parrot's body temperature rises above the normal range, which can lead to serious health issues such as heatstroke. Signs of overheating in parrots include rapid panting, holding their wings away from their body, lethargy, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness.Ensuring that your parrot’s living environment is cool and comfortable is the first step in preventing overheating. Here are some tips to achieve this without much effort:Place the parrot’s cage in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Avoid areas that can get excessively warm, such as near windows or kitchens.Use fans or air conditioning to maintain a cool temperature. However, make sure the airflow is indirect to avoid creating a draft, which can be harmful to parrots. Always provide fresh cool water for your parrot. Consider adding ice cubes to the water bowl to keep it cooler for longer periods.

New Research Claims That You Can “Connect” Your Brain With Your Pet’s

A team of Chinese researchers is coming forward with some really exciting claims in the field of biology. Even though it might sound unreal, their latest study suggests that when you look at your dog – or into their eyes – you can actually synchronize your brains. This complex research was undertaken in China, where they say that “neural coupling” between two different species was witnessed for the first time in history. This process happens when the brain activity of two or more individuals aligns during an interaction. In some ways, amongst humans, this is often the response to a gripping story in a conversation.Before this, neural coupling had only been seen in two members of the same species. Most commonly it was observed in humans and other primates, but also in mice and bats. Scientists agree that this “linking of brains” is likely important for shaping responses during social encounters. It is said that such behavior cannot occur in isolation and is thus essential for enhancing same-species cooperation.So, with these new surprising results, many questions pop up. For one, is the relationship between dogs and humans as simple as we previously thought? Or can we coexist on a much deeper level?After all, one of the very first animals that humans domesticated in history was the dog. That counts for a whole lot of shared history, numbering in hundreds of thousands of years. This means that dogs are much more than pet companions. Instead, they have a shared place in our society and history, and many uses that are vital to our existence, even today. All of this means that dogs have developed a set of intriguing skills throughout those centuries, including the ability to accurately understand our emotions. Using special equipment and processes, such as non-invasive electroencephalography (EEG), researchers in China were able to observe the neural signals transmitted from a beagle dog and a human, in a shared interaction. Much to their surprise, when dogs and humans would gaze into each other’s eyes, and when dogs were stroked in the process, their brain signals would synchronize. And the brain patterns associated with attention were suddenly matched in both human and dog.And as the participants got to know each other, the brain patterns only got stronger and more accurate. This means that the depth of the relationship between man and dog is very important for synchronization. Of course, it is well known that dogs are able to form strong relationships, especially with humans. This could be just one of the many ways that they do this – that we know of, that is!

How Do I Eliminate Cat Litter Box Messes Once and For All?

Whether it’s litter tracked all over the floor, smelly odors, or urine outside the box, litter box issues can quickly turn a peaceful home into a chaotic one. But fear not! It is possible to be a proud cat parent and still enjoy a clean and tidy home. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can eliminate cat litter box messes once and for all.The key to a clean and odor-free box starts with understanding your cat’s behavior and preferences. Cats are creators of habit, and the smallest detail may cause your cat to turn their nose up at their box setup.In this guide, we’ll discuss the common causes of litter box messes and provide practical solutions to address them. This includes the importance of box placement, the ideal litter box size and type, the best litter options, and products that can help address any issues. Plus, I’ll share my tried and tested cleaning techniques from a lifetime of sharing my home with cats.Why Do Some Cats Eliminate Outside the Litter Box? While not all messes related to the litter box are related to accidents outside the box, this is the cause of much of the frustration cat parents experience. But what could cause a cat to choose to do their business somewhere besides the litter box, especially if they were previously doing great in this department? There are several explanations for why a cat may start to have accidents outside the litterbox, ranging from the setup/location to possible medical causes. Let’s take a look at the most common reasons to help you narrow it down: Medical Issues Anytime a new behavior develops or a behavior changes, you should take a moment to consider whether there could be a medical explanation. This means setting up an appointment with your veterinarian so they can run the tests necessary to rule out these issues or begin treating the problem. When it comes to litter box issues, the most common medical problems your cat may experience include: Urinary tract infections Bladder stones Kidney disease Hyperthyroidism Urinary incontinenceArthritis (can make it hard to get into the litter box) Cognitive dysfunction (forgetting where the box is/to use the box)Stress & Anxiety Physical medical conditions aren’t the only potential causes. It’s also possible that your cat’s bathroom accidents are a sign that they are currently experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety. Take a moment to consider whether any significant life changes recently could trigger a stress reaction. This could include a move to a new house, renovations within the home, a change to the people or pets in the house (adding a new pet, someone leaving for college, a death in the family, etc.), or even a change to your usual schedule and routine. Litterbox Setup/Location There are several common mistakes that cat parents make when setting up a litter box in their home. Just like people have preferences, so do our cats – including preferences regarding where they go about their business. This includes their preferred type of litter, the size/shape of their box, or the location in the home. One error I hear about a lot is setting up the box in a less-than-ideal location in the home. This could be because the area is too busy, making it uncomfortable for your cat (would you want to conduct business with everyone moving around you all the time?) or that there is an unpleasant smell or sound in that area. Or your cat’s litterbox could simply be too out of the way, making it inconvenient to have to make the trip to the box when they need to go. Too Few Litterboxes Contrary to common belief, setting up a single box in a central area of your home may not be enough to meet your cat’s needs, especially if there are multiple cats in your home. You may also need additional boxes if you live in a large or multi-story home. Cleanliness The most straightforward problem to address, yet a common issue faced in cat-loving homes, is that you simply aren’t cleaning the box frequently enough. We don’t enjoy the smell of a dirty box, so why should they? Especially if it means they have to literally climb right into the center of all that odor. You may have to clean your cat’s box multiple times daily, depending on how many cats you have, the box size, litter type, and your cat’s preferences. How Litterbox Size and Set-Up Affect SmellI just mentioned that your choice of litterbox and where it is set up in the home might cause bathroom accidents, but did you know those choices can also directly impact how much the box smells? If your cat’s box is tucked into a corner or a small room, like a closet, the confined space may keep the odors out of your home in general – but it is trapping them in that area which can absorb into the walls over time. It may also discourage your cat from entering the space to go to the bathroom, leading to more accidents in other areas of the home. Instead, it would be best if you chose a well-ventilated area. A box in a high-traffic or central area of the home could also contribute more to the noticeable odors. This isn’t to say the box actually smells more, but that the constant movement around it can stir up the unpleasant odors in a location where you’re more likely to notice them. Asking your cat to use a box that is too small or shallow may prevent your cat from being able to cover their waste. While one may not think a layer of litter could effectively trap odors, you would be surprised! Providing a litterbox with enough litter for your cat to dig down and bury their waste will help decrease odors until you clean it each day.

Are Some Toys Better For Senior Dogs? Yes!

(photo credit: Ryan Brix / shutterstock.com)When we think of aging pets, we envision dogs that have slowed down a little, love to nap and prefer to settle into a sunny spot over a vigorous walk. I admit that these days, my 13- and 15-year-old Schnoodles are less inclined to get excited when I pick up their leash than they were just a couple of years back. So, their outings are shorter and treats are doled out as a reward for making the effort when we return home.But there’s so much more to your pet’s aging than just a slower gait and desire to curl up and snooze away the afternoon. Vision starts to fade, hearing is not quite so acute and often, their teeth and gums begin to cause problems.That said, every so often we see the puppy come out when they get excited about something special – a high-value treat, another dog, your return from work, or a fun new toy that he can still enjoy despite his physical limitations. And those are the moments we want to continue creating by adapting their arsenal of playthings to meet their changing needs.

Florida Cruise Line Announces Pet Friendly Cruises in 2025

Have you always dreamt of going on a cruise with your best friend by your side? It’s a struggle faced by dog parents everywhere – torn between their favorite form of travel and making memories with their best friend.But we have good news… A recent announcement from a Florida cruise line will make this struggle a thing of the past! Starting November 2025, dog parents can set sail on the Margaritaville at Sea Islander with their pup. This dog-friendly cruise opportunity has been made possible by a partnership between Expedia Cruise of West Orlando and Cruise Tails. Not only does this cruise welcome canine travelers, but they have also gone above and beyond to create a truly unique dog-friendly experience. “We are proud to pioneer an experience where every guest feels welcomed, cared for, and celebrated,” announced Dawn von Graff, owner of Expedia Cruises of West Orlando. “This cruise is more than a vacation – it’s a celebration of the unbreakable bond between people and their dogs.” The pet-friendly cabins will have a pet relief station on the balcony for easy access. Plus, each guest will be assigned a pet butler to keep the cabin and ship clean. Outside of your cabin, additional features have been incorporated into the ship with our canine companions in mind, including dog-friendly grooming stations and a dog grooming salon. Dog-focused events like training sessions, puppy massages, guest speakers, costume contests, and dog shows will occupy your day during the cruise. Top vendors will join the excitement, offering gifts and samples for pet parents. “I consider my Yorkie, Louis, to be part of my family, and for years, I missed out on the ‘family reunion’ cruise because I will not travel without him,” explained Steve Matzke from Cruise Tails. “I want to change that for myself and other dog lovers.” Are you a dog lover whose pup isn’t comfortable in a public setting, like a cruise? This cruise also provides a unique opportunity. Enjoy your cruise surrounded by up to 250 adorable pups (the maximum capacity of canine cruisers). When ready for a little dog-free break, head to the designated dog-free spaces like the pool decks and the ship’s casino. This inaugural dog-friendly cruise will depart from Tampa, Florida, in November 2025, although the specific dates and cost are still TBA. How do you get to sail on this history-making cruise? Dog parents interested in taking part can apply to participate. All travelers chosen to participate in this first “Proof of Concept” cruise will be considered Ambassadors, so Cruise Tails is carefully selecting the lucky sailors. A few key details about pet eligibility: All dogs must have a valid veterinary health certificate issued within 30 days of their sailing date. Dogs must be up-to-date on their vaccinations, including rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. Only dogs 6 months old and older are eligible. One dog is permitted per cabin. All dogs must be microchipped or have an approved identification tag, including the dog’s name, cabin number, and contact information. Dogs with a history of aggressive behavior toward people or other animals are prohibited. For more information or to join the waitlist for consideration, visit the Cruise Tails website. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How to Prepare Your Cat for a Weekend Away

With their independent nature, cats might seem like they can fend for themselves for a weekend. However, leaving them alone for more than a few hours can lead to stress and anxiety. So, what is the right answer for you and your feline friend?A weekend away is sometimes necessary. While some cats respond well to an in-home pet sitter, for short getaways, this could introduce more stress than it solves.Proper preparation is key to ensure they are happy and healthy during your absence. In this guide, we’ll break down the essential steps to make your cat’s weekend at home as stress-free as possible. Start planning today.How Long Can Cats Be Alone?While it would be convenient to give you an exact timeline for this question, the truth is that it isn’t that cut and dry. The amount of time your cat can comfortably stay alone at home will depend on several factors, including their personality, overall health, age, and whether you are a multi-cat home.Generally, most adult cats can comfortably handle being alone for 8-10 hours. This is enough time to accommodate a busy work schedule but not a weekend getaway. If your cat is a healthy adult, experts say that it’s reasonable to leave them home alone for 24 hours. However, this is a generic guideline, and in some cases, it could be safe to extend it further.One of the most significant considerations in deciding your cat’s limitations is solitude. Some cats are more independent and happier to spend extended periods alone. Others are more social and struggle if they don’t have some sort of interaction.Of course, if you have multiple cats that are friendly with one another and keep each other company, this can help extend the time that they are comfortable being solo.Other considerations that may impact your cat’s ability to safely and comfortably stay home alone include if they experience anxiety (especially separation anxiety), include:If they must take any medicationsIf they have medical conditions requiring supervisionIf they engage in destructive behaviors when boredIf they are just overly social

What Is Reverse Sneezing in Dogs?

Reverse sneezing, also known as inspiratory paroxysmal respiration, is a condition that often worries dog owners because of its dramatic presentation. Unlike regular, common sneezing, which involves expelling air out through the nose, reverse sneezing occurs when a dog rapidly pulls air into its nose. This phenomenon is characterized by sudden, repeated, and forceful inhalations through the nose, accompanied by a snorting sound that can be quite alarming to those unfamiliar with the condition. But is it a cause for worry? Here’s the scoop on this weird behavior.What Is Reverse Sneezing in Dogs?What reverse sneezing essentially is is a spasm of the throat and the soft palate. During an episode, the dog’s airway temporarily narrows, causing the dog to extend its neck and make loud snorting noises as it tries to clear the irritation. These episodes are usually brief, lasting from a few seconds to a couple of minutes, and they typically resolve on their own without intervention. There are several key factors that can trigger reverse sneezing in dogs. Here are some common causes:#1 Irritants:Environmental irritants, such as pollen, dust, perfumes, and smoke can all cause reverse sneezing. Dogs with allergies, or those exposed to new or strong scents are particularly susceptible. For dogs with allergies, supplements can be of great help in managing symptoms and even relieving them altogether.

5 Popular Designer Dog Breeds

Designer dogs, or hybrid dogs, are a mix of two purebreds. Unlike mutts, you’ll know which breeds make up a designer dog. But, like any mixed breed dog, puppies will inherit the diverse traits of their parents, so there can be variations in temperament, coat, and other features, and this can make it a bit challenging to predict what these dogs will be like. Today, there are many highly sought-after designer dog breeds, whether they’re beloved for their looks, personality, or eagerness to work. Below are five designer dogs that have a lot to offer.

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