Pearly Conure

Can Dogs Get Harvest Mites?

Harvest mites, also known as chiggers or red bugs, are tiny parasitic mites that feed on the skin of various animals - including dogs. That’s right - dogs can get harvest mites too. These tiny pests are common in warm and dry climates and are active during the late summer and early fall. It is because of this that they are called “harvest” mites. But don’t be fooled by their tiny size – these mites can cause significant discomfort to dogs, mostly due to the irritation that their bites can cause.What Are Harvest Mites? Are They Dangerous for Dogs?Belonging to the Trombiculidae family, harvest mites are this subclade’s larvae. They are almost microscopic, measuring only about 0.2 mm in size. These mites are bright orange or red, which makes them slightly easier to spot on a dog’s skin, though their small size still makes them difficult to detect. They tend to live in grassy or wooded areas and attach themselves to dogs, humans, or other animals when they come into contact with the vegetation where the mites live.Now, once a harvest mite attaches itself to a dog’s skin, they will inject saliva into it in order to break down the cells which they consume. Unlike fleas or ticks, which feed on blood, these mites feed on skin cells. It is this process that causes an intense allergic reaction in dogs, leading to inflammation and itching. The dog may develop red, raised bumps or welts at the bite sites, typically in areas where the skin is thinner, such as the paws, belly, ears, or armpits.Your furry friend might scratch or bite the affected area, in hopes of easing the irritation. But this can potentially cause further skin damage or further infections. While harvest mites do not burrow into the skin, their bites can remain itchy and uncomfortable for several days, even after the mites are detached and gone.Symptoms of Harvest Mites in DogsIt is important to note that intense itching and irritation are not the only symptoms of harvest mite bites. If a dog is repeatedly scratching or licking at a particular area, this could indicate the presence of harvest mites, so know what signs to look out for.Red bumps and welts will often appear on the dog’s paws, belly, ears, or between their toes.Itching that is caused by harvest mites can be intense, and if your pet is vigorously scratching this is a classic indicator.In some cases, dogs may lose fur around the affected area due to excessive scratching.Constant scratching or biting may lead to crusty patches or open wounds. This is one of the more advanced signs.Of course, you need to make sure that harvest mite infestation is treated as soon as possible. This typically involves relieving the itching and removing any remaining mites. Of course, you need to seek the help of a vet, who will prescribe the proper treatment for your pet's unique case.

12-Year-Old Rescue Cat’s Reaction to First Toy Melts Hearts

It’s a heartwarming tale of second chances that will tug at the heartstrings of cat lovers everywhere. From sharing the story of a senior cat finding the love he deserves to revealing his “inner kitten” in an adorable video – The story of “Loaf” will surely bring a smile to your face. As a golden oldie, Loaf appears to have had a rough start to life. The 12-year-old cat was discovered recently by Maria Torres, from Miami, during a mother/daughter beach trip. The two spotted the black cat peaking out from the mangroves, and it was clear that he needed help. A rescue owner herself (Torres runs Love N Light Furever Rescue in South Florida), she knew she couldn’t leave the sweet senior behind to fend for himself. The two took Loaf home to better assess his condition and help him live out the rest of his senior years with the love and care every cat should receive. After addressing his immediate needs, they decided to give the senior cat a little something special to call his own – a catnip-filled rainbow toy, recording his first reaction. But they never could have imagined how it was going to go. “To give him his first toy was pretty extraordinary and kind of scary because I didn’t know how he was going to feel about it,” Torres explained. “The truth is, a cat who lived on the streets for 12 years sometimes doesn’t even recognize toys, so I was actually pretty shocked that he took a liking to it right away.” Torres shared the video on TikTok, and it wasn’t long before the heartwarming comments started to roll in.

Dogs Can Smell When You’re Stressed

Researchers have discovered that dogs can smell human stress and it can affect the way they make decisions. The study was conducted in the United Kingdom, and helps shed more light on how dogs can be impacted by the emotions experienced by people.

Renowned Chelsea Flower Show Gave Back to Dogs This Year

With famed horticulturist Monty Don, prestigious show shares tips on creating dog-friendly outdoor spaces.

'PrePup' Agreement Helps Owners Co-Parent After a Breakup

When you end a relationship, things can get messy – even more so when you have a pet whose ownership you share with your ex. Your pooch shouldn’t be affected by the new state of things, though, which is why Rover.com created the “ PrePup Checklist”, specifically for this reason – to help couples that want a pet together consider what they would to ensure their dog’s well-being do in case their relationship doesn’t work out. The classic prenuptial agreement requires couples to think ahead and consider what would happen to their shared assets, specifically in the case of the death of a spouse or divorce. Similarly, Rover’s “PrePup Checklist” helps couples to consider how the shared responsibilities of pet ownership would be handled if – somewhere down the line – they were to split up. Of course, in difference to the prenuptial agreement, the “PrePup Checklist” is not a legally binding contract. Kristina Bergsten of The Animal Law Firm advises those who look to protect their pets legally to add “some paragraphs about who any pets belong to or what you're going to do if you adopt a pet during the marriage" to a prenuptial agreement. In August 2023, Bergsten told PEOPLE that if pets are not mentioned in a prenup, “the property settlement agreement will determine who gets the pet” in a divorce. And now, the “PrePup Checklist” wants to avoid making couples rely on property agreements so they can determine what happens to their pets during a divorce. Rover came to the idea of the checklist after conducting a survey that revealed that 56% of pet owners never discussed with their partner who would get the pet if they broke up.Rover’s checklist starts with prompts specifically asking owners to assign responsibilities for each “pet parent”. For example, who would be in charge of the walking schedule, and who would be in charge of the feeding, etc.The second part of this agreement asks new couples to consider “having difficult conversations about the future”, which includes the splitting of financial responsibilities of pet ownership, and deciding who the pet will live with in case of an eventual breakup."It's important for couples to elevate animal well-being and commit to co-parenting in healthy ways for the health and well-being of their dogs. It is widely recognized in animal welfare science that dogs and other animals can self-regulate and find innate strategies for coping with stress and anxiety when they are feeling safe, secure, and familiar with their social relationships," said Philip Tedeschi, a professor, and researcher on the human-animal bond who works with Rover."One of the most prominent indicators of their sense of security comes from their proximity to other members of the family. Having conversations about the future and what may happen if there is a disruption to a pet's life would benefit them, offer predictability, and keep them close to the ones they connect with," he added.The PrePup Checklist also includes a place where the couple’s new pet can “cosign” on anything that was discussed and agreed upon. The ultimate goal of Rover is to strengthen the bond between couples, but also between pets and their new owners.

Young or Old? These Outdoor Toys Are Perfect for Dog Park Action

(Photo credit: Lunja / Shutterstock.com)Young or old, big or small...regardless of the breed, all dogs love visiting a leash-free park where they can move at their own pace. For me, my Schnoodles love the idea of a dog park, but once we arrive, they tend to stick like glue and walk at a slower pace beside (or often behind) me. They’re not afraid of getting lost – they know the trails of our regular haunt inside out – but the idea of running and frolicking seems to have disappeared into the ether the moment they jumped out of the car.Whether you live with a large, highly active dog that needs a hard run to burn off energy or like me, a smaller, older pet that needs a little more incentive to come out of their shell, we’ve found eight different motivators that are sure to maximize your time in a leash-free zone.

Can You Get Worms From Your Dog?

Sharing your life with a dog is such a joy – but sometimes, you end up sharing a bit more than you'd want to. And no, we’re not talking about your bed. One common concern among pet owners is the possibility of contracting worms from their dogs. But this, in turn, raises more questions: how are worms transmitted, what types of worms are there, what are the symptoms, and what preventive measures can owners take? Read on to learn more about best practices to ensure your and your pet’s safety when it comes to intestinal parasites.Can You Get Worms From Your Dog?The first thing owners need to know is the types of worms that can affect their pets. While doggos can contract these worms through various means, such as ingestion of infected feces or soil, flea bites, or through their mother’s milk, the risk of transmission to humans varies with each type.Roundworms:These are the most common intestinal parasites in dogs. They can be transmitted to humans, especially children, through accidental ingestion of contaminated soil or feces. The larvae of these worms can migrate through the body, causing a condition known as visceral larva migrans.Hookworms:These parasites can also infect humans through direct contact with contaminated soil. The larvae penetrate the skin, leading to a condition called cutaneous larva migrans, which manifests as itchy, red trails on the skin.Tapeworms:These are usually transmitted to dogs through the ingestion of fleas that carry tapeworm larvae. While direct transmission from dogs to humans is rare, it can occur if a person accidentally ingests an infected flea.Whipworms:These worms are less common and primarily infect dogs through the ingestion of contaminated soil. Human infection is rare but possible.Human infection with dog worms primarily occurs through accidental ingestion or skin contact with contaminated soil or feces. Children, due to their tendency to play in the dirt and their less stringent hygiene practices, are at higher risk. Adults can also be infected, particularly if they handle soil or dog feces without proper precautions.Preventing worm transmission from dogs to humans involves a combination of good hygiene practices and regular veterinary care for your pet. Here are some key preventive measures:Ensure that your dog is regularly dewormed according to your vet’s recommendations. This helps reduce the risk of your dog contracting and spreading worms.

Can Dogs Have ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also known as ADHD, is commonly discussed in relation to humans, children in particular. And just as its name suggests, this mental disorder is characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. However, in recent years pet owners and veterinarians have begun to wonder if similar behavioral issues can also affect dogs. Can dogs have ADHD? Here’s what the facts say.Can Dogs Have ADHD?In humans, ADHD is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder and is usually diagnosed in childhood. Symptoms typically include difficulty focusing, excessive energy, and impulsive actions. It is often treated with a combination of behavioral therapy and medications. And, understanding these traits in humans can help us look for analogous behaviors in dogs as well.Just like humans, dogs can also exhibit a range of behaviors that might seem similar to the symptoms of ADHD. Common behaviors that concern pet owners include excessive barking, restlessness, an inability to settle down, destructive behavior, and an apparent lack of focus or attention. However, it is essential to recognize that dogs naturally have higher energy levels compared to humans, for example, especially certain dog breeds. For instance, Border Collies and Jack Russell Terriers are known for their high energy and require significant physical and mental stimulation. This is why it is crucial to distinguish between normal breed-specific behavior and potential behavioral disorders. Veterinarians and animal behaviorists have mixed opinions on whether dogs can genuinely have ADHD. Dr. Nicholas Dodman, a veterinary behaviorist who wrote the revolutionary book “ Pets On the Couch”, has suggested that dogs can exhibit behaviors akin to ADHD in humans. He points out that some dogs may show persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that go beyond typical high-energy behavior. 

Puppy Blues is a Real Thing – Just Like Baby Blues, Study Shows

There is no doubt that puppies are super cute. When you first bring a tiny little bundle of fur into your home, it is a cause of great joy. But sometimes, life can change in many ways as you care for your new pet. A latest scientific study published in Mental Health Research reveals that almost half of all dog owners can experience something reminiscent of the famous “baby blues” – only related to puppies instead of babies.Many owners will experience anxiety, frustration, or weariness during those first steps of their pet’s puppyhood. The study that was conducted at the University of Helsinki confirmed that owners will experience a short-term drop in mood, and great melancholy, while their pet is a puppy - something that is akin to the famous postnatal “baby blues”. This is because caring for a puppy gives rise to a variety of worries and fears, anxiety and frustration, and difficulty bonding."The study found that these so-called 'puppy blues' manifest in three ways: anxiety, frustration, and weariness. These often occur concurrently, but in some cases, one or two of the three may be particularly prominent," said psychologist and doctoral researcher Aada Ståhl.When a puppy owner is anxious, their thoughts “are colored by concerns” about the wellbeing of their pet, and how they are developing. They can also be worried that they are not adequately looking after the fragile little being. If something doesn’t pan out, the owner would often blame themselves for it. What is more, as a result of the strain and the challenges of caring for a puppy, a puppy owner might become frustrated even further. In the initial stages, they might discover that it is difficult to build an emotional bond with the puppy, which would only make everything much more difficult.All of this makes puppyhood exhausting and very taxing mentally and physically. Owners could experience a lack of sleep and increased tiredness and anxiety."Just under half of owners report having had significant negative experiences during their dog's puppyhood phase, with only about a tenth reporting the most severe levels of strain. This is in line with the prevalence of postnatal depression. However, the negative feelings fade relatively quickly," says Professor Hannes Lohi.But the study now offers a key insight – the more time that passed since puppyhood, the more positively owners remembered it. This means that the negative emotional content of these memories “fades” as time passes. All these results were collected by examining the experiences of over 100 different dog owners, all of whom experienced emotional strain after bringing a puppy home. The survey was specifically developed to measure “puppy blues”. It collected specific responses from over 2,000 dog owners, ensuring the reliability of the survey."Capturing the phenomenon in a measurable form is important if we are to better understand its characteristics, prevalence, and duration. This will also allow us to improve understanding of the factors that may predispose owners to or protect them from the 'puppy blues,' which will help us to develop prevention and support measures," added Ståhl.The study offers a crucial new glimpse into the relationship between a pet and an owner. Exploring the puppy blues phenomenon will help raise awareness and prepare future owners for the challenges of puppyhood – as there are quite a few that come together with all that cuteness.

Dog Soundboard Buttons - the Jury's Back On Whether They Work

You might just be surprised at your dog's communication skills.

Is Dog Poop Compostable?

Dog owners often wonder if their furry friend’s waste can be “put to good use” and composted. After all, composting is an environmentally friendly way to reduce waste, be more efficient, and return valuable nutrients to the soil. But still, when it comes to dog poop, a question often comes up – is it safe and beneficial for composting? To find that out, we need to consider several key aspects.Is Dog Poop Compostable?In general, yes, dog poop can be composted. However, it is not so simple, as with general yard waste or food scraps. The main concern with composting dog poop and waste is the potential presence of harmful pathogens, such as bacteria and parasites. These microorganisms, such as Escherichia Coli or roundworms, can pose a risk to human health if the compost is not handled and processed properly. But when dog poop is composed the right way, it can break down safely and become a useful fertilizer for non-edible plants.To safely compost dog waste it is important to ensure that the composting process reaches high enough temperatures, which will kill all the harmful pathogens. This usually requires a special system known as hot composting, where temperatures in the compost pile must consistently reach around 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit). And it is these temperatures that help kill bacteria, parasites, and other nasty things found in dog poop. This then makes the compost safe for use. So here are a few basic steps to always keep in mind:#1 Always use a separate composting bin for dog waste, as this will help avoid contaminating regular compost. This is important for keeping dog poop out of compost that will later be used in gardens for growing fruits or vegetables. Also, make sure to use fully compostable dog poop bags that will disintegrate in the compost pile – plastic won’t do as it won’t break down as fast or fully.

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.

Some NY Hospitals Permit ESAs to Visit Their Owners After They Give

Some hospitals in New York are allowing patients’ dogs to be present and offer support to their owners after they give birth. The Northwell Health hospitals, which are the largest health system in New York, allow pregnant women to bring their emotional support dogs to the postpartum unit. Lisa Schavrein, the nurse navigator in OBGYN at Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital who helps arrange these visits, told the People: “We have a 40-week lead time before our patients walk through the door. So there should be nothing about you that we’re not prepared for. Anything that requires an extra level of care comes through me.”This gives pregnant women with anxiety or depression an opportunity to have their emotional support dog present for one of the most important moments in their lives. “Having a baby at baseline causes anxiety with or without a pre-existing condition, so if you use an emotional support animal to calm you and you want them to help, to me it’s a no-brainer,” said Schavrein. Patients interested in bringing their emotional support dog into a postpartum unit must follow some rules, though. Women planning to give birth at the Lenox Hill Hospital must provide their dog’s emotional support paperwork before their due date so the nurse navigator can arrange everything. This usually involves notifying the hospital’s security team and staff in advance so that they are prepared for the arrival of the emotional support animal.Additionally, to come into the hospital, the emotional support dog must be hypoallergenic so it won’t affect other patients. A patient’s family member or a friend must be present while the dog is staying in the hospital, so there is someone to take the pup out for bathroom breaks. Emotional support animals aren’t allowed in the hospital labor and delivery units to ensure the safety of all patients and the staff. Instead, the dog is taken straight to visit their owner in the postpartum unit. “It’s a huge comfort to them,” said Schavrein. “Some people don’t even end up having their animals come. They are just comforted to know that they can bring their emotional support animal if they need it.”Natalie Reyes Bursky and her husband, Ryan Bursky, experienced first-hand how much comfort an emotional support dog can offer in this situation. Natalie gave birth at the Lenox Hill Hospital in 2023 and had her emotional support dog Magita, visit her at the postpartum unit shortly after delivery.Natalie had Magita long before she got married and became pregnant. The two crossed paths in 2011 in Chile, while Magita was just a puppy. Three years later Magita become Natali’s emotional support animal. Natalie, who struggled with depression and anxiety for years, finds Magita’s calm demeanor soothing and that’s one of the reasons she brings her pooch with her everywhere. So, when Natalie and Ryan learned that Magita could visit them at the Lenox Hill Hospital postpartum unit, they jumped at the opportunity to arrange their dog’s visit with Schavrein.The couple was sure that Magita’s presence would provide comfort and stability to Natalie in the hours after birth, especially since Magita was trained to be a hospital therapy dog. However, they couldn’t imagine how vital the dog’s presence would be.After experiencing a very sudden and intense labor, Natalie was extremely grateful for Magia’s ability to bring a sense of serenity and comfort. “I didn’t have my baby at that point. He was in the NICU. I couldn’t move or get up, but my dog was there and she provided comfort,” said Natalie. “It was incredible. She got to lie on a blanket right next to me.” “I would recommend this for somebody who has struggled with their mental health, especially as it's becoming less stigmatized to talk openly about mental health. It meant the world to me to be able to have Magita there,” added Natalie. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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.

Air Travel Planned? Check Out These Top, Airline-Approved Pet Carriers

Can You Leash and Harness Train a Rabbit?

Rabbits, with their adorable faces and curious personalities, are growing in popularity as companions and family members. While setting up a comfortable habitat with your rabbit’s basic needs is essential, we can’t overlook the importance of mental and physical enrichment.There are many great products to incorporate enrichment in their cage or pen. The options are endless, from adorable food puzzles and enrichment toys to climbing structures and tasty chews. One form of enrichment I have heard discussed more lately is using a leash and harness to take your rabbit outdoors safely.Leash training a rabbit is possible, but you must approach it with patience, understanding, and respect for their natural instincts. It’s a delicate process that requires a gentle hand and a deep understanding of your rabbit’s needs and limitations. You want to open the door to enjoyable experiences while keeping them safe.Let’s discuss the steps to successfully leash training a rabbit and how to know if your best friend will be comfortable with this.What Are the Benefits of Leash Training a Rabbit? If you’re hearing about leash training a rabbit for the first time, you may be wondering why you would consider teaching your rabbit to walk on a leash. While this activity is common with dogs, seeing other pets exploring while wearing a harness is less common. Still, it is gaining popularity with a growing number of adventure cats, leash-trained small animals, and even birds and reptiles learning to use these tools to go outdoors safely. Here are a few reasons you may want to consider introducing your rabbit to a harness and leash: Enjoy the Outdoors Safely There are many benefits a rabbit can enjoy from spending time outdoors, from the fresh air and sunshine to grazing on the fresh grass and clover. The new sounds, sights, smells, and experiences are a great way to enjoy mental and physical enrichment, but letting your rabbit run loose could put them at serious risk. Unless you have a secure outdoor cage to keep your rabbit safe, leash training is the only way to take them outside while avoiding danger like potential predators, toxins, traffic, and more. Keeping your bunny on a leash means you can take steps to keep them safe if a problem arises. Get Them Moving Many pets today struggle with obesity. While there are several potential causes of this obesity epidemic, one problem that veterinarians and experts often see is a lack of physical activity. You can incorporate more exercise into your schedule indoors, but this could introduce risk factors like small enclosures that don’t allow enough room to hop around freely or concerns about rabbit-proofing.The outdoors is a literal playground with plenty of space to play. Taking your rabbit out on a leash allows them to enjoy that area freely. Prevent Boredom Can you imagine spending all day, every day, in a small cage or enclosure? Unless you take steps to offer mental and physical enrichment opportunities to enhance your rabbit’s life, they run the risk of suffering from boredom. In time, boredom can lead to behavior problems. Some common signs of boredom in rabbits include: Over-grooming Excessive chewing on cage bars, furniture, or other things they shouldn’tDigging/shredding obsessivelyLoss of interest in usual activities Overeating (eating out of boredom)Weight gain Uncharacteristic aggression (growling, scratching, biting)Taking your rabbit out to spend some time outdoors on-leash is an excellent way to provide the mental stimulation they need. Each new smell and sound expands their world just a little further. The training process is another great way to challenge your rabbit’s mind. We often think of training dogs to sit or roll over, but rabbits can also be trained to do many things. From functional “tricks” like leash training or teaching your rabbit to use a litter box to introducing tricks like “spin” and “beg,” rabbits are intelligent animals who may just surprise you! Controlled Socialization Nothing is wrong with your rabbit meeting and engaging with other animals, but it must be done in a controlled and safe environment. This includes meeting with humans when out and about. That said, an introduction in their cage or habitat can be stressful as they feel cornered or unsafe. It can also create ongoing stress as they no longer see their habitat as a safe place where no one else can put them in harm’s way. Taking your rabbit out on a leash in an open space where they feel they have plenty of escape routes is a great way to approach this (assuming they are comfortable being on a leash by the time you do the introductions). It allows you to control the introductions while giving the illusion of freedom, allowing everyone to move at their own pace. Opportunities for Quality Time  Of course, when we bring a pet into our lives, one of the most significant benefits we experience is the love and companionship they offer us. But that’s a two-way street! Spending time interacting and engaging with you is also incredibly important for your rabbit. It’s not necessary to go outdoors to spend time together. However, if you and your rabbit both enjoy spending time outdoors, it’s a great opportunity to spend some time together and strengthen that special animal-human bond. Are Some Rabbit Breeds Better Suited for Leash Training? Any rabbit has the potential to enjoy spending time outdoors. However, some breeds may have natural personality traits that give them a little edge. For example, an anxious or uneasy rabbit won’t enjoy being forced into a new situation. Instead, you want to choose a rabbit that is calm even when faced with something new and unknown. Plus, some rabbit breeds are said to be easier to train. Based on the most common personality traits of each breed, some options you may want to consider include: Rex Holland Lop Dutch Himalayan Flemish GiantOf course, within each of those breeds will be some who aren’t suited for a life of outdoor adventure. Take time to get to know your rabbit, including their personal quirks and traits. Consider whether this is an activity they will enjoy, adding to the quality of their life, or one that will put them in an unpleasant and uncomfortable situation. After all, like people, no two rabbits are the same – some rabbits are homebodies and introverts, too!

Ce n'est pas possible! French Actor Wants To be Buried with Pet Dog

Famed film actor Alain Delon's death triggers uproar over a special request.

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

Adopting a rescue dog can be a challenge at the best of times. Having gone through multiple homes/environments, sometimes without the attention to training or socialization that helps to create that “ideal pet,” rescue parents find themselves trying to navigate various challenges and obstacles. Not that it takes away from the benefits of being a rescue pet parent – having only ever rescued our dogs and cats, I can attest to just how much love these amazing pets have to give!  One struggle many rescue pets will need to overcome is leaving behind the other pets they have previously connected or bonded with. This could include pets that they are housed with in shelter environments or those that they live with in foster homes. While some become SO incredibly bonded that organizations decide they can only be adopted together, others try to increase their chances of being adopted by offering the pets individually. This was the situation with Celeste, a beautiful and loving rescue dog that was adopted by TikTok user goosegooseduckling. However, they never could have predicted how this story would unfold… A few months after adopting the pup and bringing her into their Indiana home, Celeste’s new mom, Michelle, decided to introduce her to the neighbor’s dog. However, a short conversation with the neighbor revealed something amazing… Celeste and her new neighbor were best friends in the shelter before they were adopted! Offering even more insight into the incredible situation, Michelle wrote: “What a small world! Today we found out that our next door neighbor’s dog was adopted from the same shelter, nearly 2 hours away from where we live. They were both rescued as young pups, and each spent 9 months at the shelter… with a 6-month overlap. This was their first time seeing each other since being adopted.”The video of the two dogs running and playing has now gone viral on TikTok, with over 300 comments and 7.6K likes. It’s a reminder of the many emotions a dog in the shelter system can experience—from meeting new friends to leaving them behind for their new forever home. However, Celeste would come to enjoy the best of both worlds!