7 Safety Tips for Dogs Living in the Country

7 Spooktacular Halloween Safety Tips For Dogs

Keep your dog safe this Halloween with these helpful tricks (that are a treat!)We love Halloween at PetGuide.com. Any excuse to dress up – we’ll take it! But we’re also aware that for some dogs, it’s not so much fun. Nothing will put a damper on your Halloween festivities like a trip to the emergency veterinarian. That’s why we put together these Halloween safety tips for dogs. Make sure to consider his well-being before engaging in the festivities.1. Who’s at the door? As you get ready for the spooky season, try to imagine being in your dog’s shoes. With all those strangers coming up to your house and ringing the doorbell, your alert watchdog may drive himself into a tizzy… not to mention that a barking and charging dog may scare your trick or treaters. Allowing your dog to have free run in the home could create a dangerous situation. Especially as you are opening the door with the arrival of each trick-or-treater (or random costumed stranger, in your dog’s eyes). Your dog may try to make a break for the great outdoors once you open the door. Or he may try to ‘greet’ the trick or treaters. Even if your dog is an overly friendly pup, an enthusiastic greeting could lead to a child being knocked over or some other unintentional injury. The best thing that you can do for your dog this Halloween is to keep him safely contained. Keep him in a quiet, safe room or kennel, equipped with a comfy bed, a few toys and a family member to reassure him that goblins are not trying to harm you. If you want him to join in on the festivities, consider offering him fun and tasty pumpkin-flavored treats. 2. Never leave your dog alone in the yard on Halloween. You may see your yard as a safe space for your dog, especially if you have a fenced-in backyard space. But, leaving your dog outdoors unsupervised could create a dangerous situation. Your dog may be anxious or stressed out with all the unfamiliar sounds, sights, and smells. He may get aggressive with all the people coming up to your house and try to escape his fenced space, either breaking free or injuring himself while he tries.  Halloween pranksters may pull a trick and let him out of the yard. While we recognize that this isn’t a funny trick, there are many stories of pranksters taking advantage of the ‘trick’ aspect of trick-or-treating to carry out activities that are mean-spirited or harmful in nature. 3. Don’t force your dog to wear a costume. There are few images as cute on Halloween night as a dog sporting an adorable costume. But, forcing your dog to wear something that he isn’t comfortable in just because you like it isn’t fair to him. If he clearly doesn’t like being dressed up, the costume affects his mobility or stresses him out, don’t make him put it on. If you aren’t sure about your dog’s comfort level, you can take some time to feel it out leading up to Halloween, but not on Halloween night when there is so much excitement going on. Pick a quiet night at home and try introducing your dog to one small part of a costume like a cape that doesn’t feel restricting or overbearing. Make sure to offer him plenty of praise and rewards during this process to create a positive association with wearing his costume. You can slowly work up to a full costume by adding one element at a time while reassuring him. But, if you notice he’s not comfortable, don’t force it. 4. If your dog is fine with wearing a costume, make sure that it’s both safe and comfortable. Even if a Halloween costume is marketed as being for dogs, that doesn’t mean that it’s a good choice for your pup to wear. Check that it doesn’t obstruct vision, hearing, or restrict movement. Take off any small pieces that can be chewed off or swallowed, and if you’re tying anything around his neck, make sure it’s not too tight (to prevent choking or strangling). Never leave your dog alone when he is wearing a costume. He could chew on it or get tangled up. Keep in mind that he may be experiencing more stress than normal on Halloween night. If you notice that all the excitement is too much and he looks uncomfortable, it’s time to call it a night for Fido. 5. When trick or treating, leave your dog at home. There are a lot of new people on the street that your dog has never met before. They are running around, screaming and wearing masks. This can freak the calmest dog out. He may turn aggressive or bolt – better to be safe than sorry and leave him at home during this walk.6. Be careful with Halloween candy. Boy, does that Halloween candy sure look good! And it looks good to your dog, too. With all the activity on Halloween night, it’s not uncommon for the candy bowl to be set aside and forgotten about momentarily between trick-or-treaters. But, as a dog owner, this could create a serious risk. Keep all candy out of your dog’s reach as chocolate is toxic to dogs and candy can make your pup sick. Make sure your kids understand the danger of the dog eating their Halloween candy and ensure they put it somewhere the dog can’t get it.7. A Jack-o-lantern is a Halloween staple, but it can also be dangerous. Do you enjoy decorating your home with the eerie glow of a Jack-o-lantern with his fun carved face and spooky smile? If so, pay careful attention to where you are going to place your decorations on Halloween night. Once you light the candle, make sure that your dog keeps his distance. You don’t want him to get burned or knock it over in his excitement to investigate this interesting decoration.Do you have any additional Halloween safety tips for dogs? Please share them with the community in the comment section below.

New Study Sheds Light On The Harmful Effect of Plastics On Pets

We all know how harmful microplastics are – both for the environment and for our health. However, it seems that the effects of plastics are as adverse for our four-legged friends. This latest report by Earthday.org is the result of an extensive study of pets' exposure to microplastics and toxic plastic chemicals and is a follow-up to the recent “Babies vs. Plastics” report. “Pet owners should read this report,” said Aidan Charron, EARTHDAY.ORG, director, end plastic initiatives. “Plastic is derived from a cocktail of oil and additive chemicals, like bisphenol A, PVC, and phthalates. These can leach into our pets’ gums, stomachs, and skin and are associated with a whole host of health issues for our pets. From cancers to embryo development to potential infertility, liver failure, miscarriage, and more. ”In an effort to support this initiative by Earthday.org, the actress Amanda Seyfried and her pet dog Finn took part in a plastic tox test. This was an effort to raise awareness about the many health risks of plastic chemical exposure, for both humans and pets. “I was anxious about the results and when they came back I was definitely upset by my dog Finn’s exposure, he scored in the top 90 percent on phthalates, which is very high,” said Amanda Seyfried. “I feed him a healthy diet but I realize now that the plastic packaging on his food is leaching toxic chemicals directly into it. It was a bit of a wake-up call. If his food is contaminated with phthalates, then that convinces me that all of us are much more exposed than we perhaps realize, including our children.”“Even if you don’t care about your own pet’s health, and we do, our pets act as sentinels,” added Kathleen Rogers, president of Earthday.org. “What impacts them, is almost certainly impacting us and this is yet more evidence that we are all ingesting and inhaling plastics in one form or another. We have to slash plastic production by 60 percent by 2040 and make the plastic industry take responsibility for the harm they are causing.”Of course, this study is important for all pet owners. After all, pets are considered a part of the family. In fact, modern research shows that the majority of global pet owners think of their pets, especially dogs and cats, as family members, or see them as something similar to a child. “We are not trying to frighten pet owners, we just want them to be aware that it is best for your pet’s health to avoid plastic toys and textiles as much as possible, and really be mindful of how their food is packaged,” added Tom Cosgrove, chief creative and content officer for Earthday.org. “We are bombarding our bodies, our families, and our pets with a toxic mix of chemicals and we want people to be aware.”

How to Keep Your Cat Hydrated

Keeping your cat hydrated is an important part of maintaining their overall health, but your kitty might not be drinking enough water, and that could lead to dehydration. The good news is that you can encourage your feline to drink more, and there are ways to sneak more moisture into their daily diet. Here are a few tips to help you get started.

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.

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.

Mars Unveils Results from the World’s Largest Pet Parent Study

There is no arguing that the world of pets is constantly changing and evolving. Once seen as practical tools on farms, while hunting, and in other scenarios, cats and dogs are now considered part of the family. But what exactly does that mean? A new study called the “ Mars Global Pet Parent Study” focused on answering precisely that question. Collecting opinions and insights from over 20,000 cat and dog parents across 20 countries, making it the world’s largest pet parent study. The company has compiled, analyzed, and shared the results for everyone to see – and the findings are fascinating! There is no doubt that pets hold a place of importance in our world today. In fact, 37% of those surveyed considered their pets the most important thing in their lives. The survey found that 56% of people owned either a cat or dog, and 47% of those are first-time owners. Why do we view our pets so highly? Many answers were given for why our pets play such special roles in our lives. Of the dog owners who participated, 50% said they appreciated the unconditional love of their canine companions most, while 49% answered family completeness. Cat owners appreciated the entertainment (48%) and stress relief (44%) of their feline friends. These relationships include pets of all ages. The study revealed Baby Boomers were more likely to share their heart and home with pets over 7 years old. Meanwhile, Generation Z and Millennials statistically had younger pets. Of the pet parents in these age groups that were surveyed, 70% were puppy owners, and 72% were kitten owners. At the time of this survey, these age groups span ages 12 to 43, meaning many are just starting their journey as pet parents by adopting their first pet (not including family pets throughout their childhood). As far as breeds, you may be surprised by the results! The most common dog breed globally was the Labrador (6%), followed by the Chihuahua (6%) and Golden Retriever (5%). As for the cats, the most popular breed was the Persian (16%), followed by the British Shorthair (11%) and the Siamese (9%). Of course, pet parenthood isn’t all sunshine and rainbows! There are some struggles and challenges we all face along the way. 32% of those surveyed reported feeling guilty about leaving their dogs and cats alone at home. This supports a 2023 study that found both pets and owners experience separation anxiety. As we continue to prioritize pets, will we see further changes in our society? The results of this survey indicate that pet parents strongly desire a more pet-friendly world at home and during their travels. Only 42% of respondents shared that they feel their neighborhoods are very pet-friendly. Meanwhile, 25% of dog owners and 27% of cat owners revealed that they find traveling with their pets demanding or challenging. What does all this mean for the pet industry? For companies like Mars, this is a call to continue growing, innovating, and adapting. As our relationships with our pet parents continue to grow stronger than ever, we are searching for products that support this newfound relationship. “Almost half (47%) of those surveyed are first-time owners, signaling a new era of pet parents,” explained Ikdeep Singh, Global President of Mars Pet Nutrition. “We know that pet parents are evolving, and we need to evolve with them, which means embedding pet parent centricity into our DNA to transform the experience and build lifelong relationships with the 455 million pets and pet parents we reach.” We’re excited to see what new products this information will inspire! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

What to Do If My Dog Eats a Poinsettia?

Dogs are curious by nature, and their love for exploring the world often involves nibbling on things they shouldn’t. During the holiday season, this curiosity can spell trouble – especially with festive decorations like poinsettias. Known for their vibrant red and green leaves, poinsettias are a holiday favorite, but many dog owners worry about their safety around these plants. The good news? While poinsettias have a reputation for being toxic to dogs, the reality is far less alarming.Are Poinsettias Dangerous to Dogs?Poinsettias contain a milky white sap that can cause mild irritation if ingested or if it comes into contact with a dog’s skin or eyes. This sap contains compounds called diterpenoid euphorbol esters and saponin-like detergents, which are mildly irritating but not highly toxic. Severe poisoning from poinsettias is extremely rare, and most cases result in only mild, self-resolving symptoms.Symptoms of Poinsettia IngestionIf your dog nibbles on a poinsettia, you may notice:Drooling: The sap can irritate the mouth and cause discomfort.Vomiting or Diarrhea: Mild gastrointestinal upset is common.Pawing at the Mouth: A sign of irritation or discomfort from the sap.Severe symptoms, such as lethargy or persistent vomiting, are very rare and typically occur only if a large quantity of the plant has been consumed.What to Do if Your Dog Eats a PoinsettiaBefore anything else, it’s imperative to stay calm. Panicking won’t help your pet. In most cases, poinsettia ingestion results in mild symptoms that require little to no intervention. But, if you catch your dog in the act, gently remove any poinsettia leaves from their mouth and move the plant out of reach.

Why Do Dogs Burrow in Their Blankets?

Have you ever watched your dog bury themselves beneath a mountain of blankets, only to peek their head out with a look of pure joy and bliss? It’s a behavior that’s incredibly common. Yet it leaves so many dog parents confused – especially when your dog chooses to disappear into the blankets in the middle of the summer heat!Why are dogs so drawn to burrowing under their blankets? Is this a quirky habit, or is there a deeper reason for this cozy behavior?Let’s take a look at the fascinating world of canine behavior. We’ll talk about the instincts that encourage your dog to dig into their bedding to create that perfect “nest” and other interesting behaviors related to puppy bedtime.Why Do Dogs Love to Burrow?Like many dog habits, burrowing can be traced back to their evolutionary roots and the survival instincts of their wild ancestors. In the wild, dogs burrow in the ground to create a safe space to rest or raise their young. We still see these dens being used by foxes and wolves. Dens not only offered a place to hide from potential predators but also protected them from the elements. Today, domesticated dogs obviously aren’t faced with the same risks. However, this doesn’t take away from the natural desire to keep themselves safe. Burrowing into the blankets to create a den creates a space where your dog feels safe and secure.  It makes sense to snuggle under the blankets in the winter for a little added warmth. But what about the summer? Next time you are outdoors on a hot summer day, dig away a little dirt, and you’ll find that while the surface is warm, the ground a little further down is much cooler. Therefore, they associate this behavior with finding a cooler spot shielding them from the summer heat. Can Dogs Breathe Comfortably Under the Covers? One concern I often hear when people see my dog Lucifer snuggling happily under the covers (his favorite place to sleep) is whether he can breathe safely. When assessing whether your dog’s burrowing behavior is safe, take a moment to consider their survival instinct. If a dog gets into a situation where they can’t breathe, they aren’t going to choose to remain there – instead, they will make an effort to get back out to safety as quickly as possible. A dog snuggling happily under the blankets feels safe and secure, meaning they can clearly breathe well enough to feel comfortable there.  If you’re still concerned about the safety of your blanket-loving dog, take a moment to look at the blankets that are available to them: Are they thick, heavy blankets that can be stuffy, cutting off airflow? Are they thinner or designed in a way that allows airflow? Consider offering multiple blankets of varying thicknesses. This will allow your dog to burrow in and find the blanket (or combination of blankets) that makes them feel the most comfortable. Which Dog Breeds Are More Likely to Exhibit Burrowing Behavior?Some dog breeds are more likely to engage in this behavior. This is usually due to the roles your dog’s ancestors were bred to perform. For instance, Huskies and Malamutes are often burrowers. These are Arctic breeds that lived and worked in subzero temperatures. Creating dens in the snow was a necessary part of their survival when living in those conditions, making it an instinctual behavior.  While your northern dog may no longer live in the land of ice and snow, they still exhibit many of the same instincts. Dogs that were bred to hunt rodents are also natural burrowers. During their hunts, they would often dig to help them squeeze into the small dens and tunnels created by their prey, flushing them out. This includes smaller breeds like Dachshunds and Terriers. Any dog, regardless of breed, may embrace the joy of burrowing – either digging a den outdoors or burrowing into the blankets. Just ask my German Shepherd/Australian Cattle Dog, Lucifer. He loves nothing more than to snuggle comfortably under the blankets!

Leave it to a Frenchie to Make Medical History

LiveScience reports French bulldog puppy spontaneously regrows jawbone after cancer surgery.

Should I Use an Online Pet Pharmacy to Save on Medication?

Being a pet parent is a rewarding experience, but it can also be a costly one. From buying necessities like food to annual vet visits and vaccinations, it adds up quickly.One area where pet parents often try to save money is on medication. Online pet pharmacies have been growing in popularity as a convenient and potentially cost-saving solution. However, before you jump to make the switch, you must weigh the pros and cons. Why are many pet professionals cautioning against these websites?To help you make an educated decision for your best friend, I will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of buying a pet’s medication online. Plus, I’ll share some key factors to consider when deciding where to fill your pet’s next subscription.What are Online Pet Pharmacies?Before we start talking about the finer details of why you should (or shouldn’t) consider using an online pet pharmacy, let’s take a step back to start at the beginning. What are they and what do they offer to pet parents?Online pet pharmacies are online retailers that sell medications and other pet care products. They operate as an online alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar pet stores and veterinary clinics, allowing pet parents to purchase medications and supplies from home to be delivered to their door. These pharmacies often carry a wide range of pet-related products, including prescription medications, flea and tick treatments, heartworm preventatives, and nutritional supplements.One of the reasons that online pet pharmacies are gaining so much attention is the potential for cost savings. However, it’s important to note that not all these websites are trustworthy. Some have even been found to sell counterfeit or expired products! This is why it’s so important to have this discussion.Benefits of Using Online Pet PharmaciesOnline pet pharmacies offer a convenient and efficient way to manage your pet’s needs and stay on top of their healthcare. By allowing you to shop online, they help streamline your pet’s medication routine while providing access to a wide range of products at the click of a button.Here are a few reasons why you may want to consider picking up your pet’s medications online:Cost SavingsOne of the most significant benefits of using online pet pharmacies is the potential to save a little money. Times are hard and people are struggling – I get it! These pharmacies often offer lower prices on a wide range of medications compared to traditional brick-and-mortar locations.First, online pharmacies typical have lower overhead costs than traditional pharmacies and vet clinics. They don’t have to maintain a physical location, which means they don’t have to worry about rent, utilities, and staffing. This cost savings can be passed onto you in the form of lower prices.Second, online pharmacies often buy the medications from the manufacturers in bulk, allowing them to negotiate lower prices. By buying larger quantities, they can score better deals. These savings allow them to offer the medications at lower prices.ConvenienceOnline pet pharmacies are more convenient than traditional brick-and-mortar options. With just a few clicks, you can easily order your pet’s medication from the comfort of your own home. This eliminates the need to take a trip to your vet clinic or local pharmacy, with the medications instead being delivered right to your front door.Another convenient feature is the option for autofill. Most online pharmacies allow you to set up autofill, ensuring your pet’s medication is automatically shipped to your door before they run out. This eliminates the hassle of reordering prescriptions and ensures you’re never in a position where you don’t have their needed dose available.Wide SelectionThese online pharmacies offer a wider selection of mediations than traditional brick-and-mortar options. This is because they can tap into a larger network of suppliers, allowing them to source products from around the world.This selection can be particularly helpful for pet owners with specific needs, such as those with rare conditions or allergies. In addition to a wider variety of common medications, may of these online pharmacies also offer specialty and hard-to-find medications that are not readily available in most brick-and-mortar locations.

How to Prevent E. Coli in Dogs

We often talk about the importance of addressing bacteria to keep people safe, but what about our pets? One example that can also put our furry friends at risk is E. coli.E. coli bacteria can be a serious threat to dogs, causing a range of illnesses, from mild diarrhea to severe kidney failure. While most dogs will recover with proper treatment, prevention is key. After all, no dog parent wants to see their best friend suffer unnecessarily.This blog post will look at the common causes of E. coli infection in dogs, effective ways to prevent an infection, and when you should seek veterinary care. By understanding the risks and taking steps to keep your pup safe, you can help them live a happy, healthy life.What is E. Coli?Escherichia coli, better known as E. coli, is a type of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and other animals. Some strains are beneficial, serving important roles like helping to digest food and producing vitamin K. However, not all E. coli bacteria strains are good.Harmful E. coli strains produce toxins that can damage the lining of the intestines, leading to feeling sick and uncomfortable. In severe cases, E. coli infections can be life-threatening.For dogs, the most dangerous strains of E. coli are those that produce Shiga toxin, a bacterial toxin that damages red blood cells and the lining of the intestines. This can lead to severe complications like hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a condition that can negatively impact the negativities and the blood clotting system. HUS can be fatal if left untreated.Symptoms of an E.Coli Infection in DogsIf you suspect your dog may have an E. coli infection, it’s crucial to recognize the signs and seek veterinary care promptly. While the symptoms of E. coli can sometimes mimic other illnesses, identifying the common signs of trouble can help you know when to take immediate action.Common symptoms include:Diarrhea: This is often a primary symptom, and the stool may be watery or contain blood.Vomiting: Dogs with E. coli infections may experience vomiting, which can be accompanied by loss of appetite.Lethargy: Infected dogs may appear tired, weak, or less active than usual.Dehydration: Severe diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, which can be life-threatening. Signs of dehydration include decreased skin elasticity, sunken eyes, and dry gums.Abdominal Pain: Your dog may show signs of discomfort or pain in their abdomen.If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your veterinarian immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to give your pup the best chance of a quick recovery and prevent complications. Your veterinarian may perform a fecal test to confirm the presence of the bacteria before recommending the best course of action.

Is Your Cat a Swimmer? Check Out These Water-Worthy Accessories

Study Finds Pet Pigs Don't Bond with Their Humans Like Dogs

Have you always dreamt of bringing a pet pig into your home? Have you seen any adorable social media videos of cute companion pigs behaving like dogs as they interact with their people? A recent study published in Scientific Reports reveals that these videos may be misleading. Comparing the behaviors of companion pigs and dogs, the researchers discovered that the two species respond with noticeably different behavior patterns when interacting with people, including their owner and a stranger. Most importantly, they found that pet pigs don’t develop the special pet-owner attachment with their humans that we see in dogs. The findings are significant when you consider the role that pets play in society today. Once seen as valuable for their work in farming, protection, and other tangible roles, most pets today are kept instead solely for companionship.

Self-Harming in Pets - What Triggers It?

Depression, anxiety, and an inability to cope may cause unusual behaviors in your pet.

Meet Finn, the Giant Cat Who is The Size of a 9-Year-Old Child!

The world of domestic cats is about to get a whole lot bigger if this cat has anything to say about it! Although wild cats are pretty big, I’m not talking about lions or tigers. Instead, I’m referring to a loved member of a California family.  Finn the cat was adopted by his loving owner, Natalie Bowman, in 2017 at just three and a half months old. Bowman knew he was going to be a little larger than most domestic cats being a Maine Coon, but she had no idea exactly what she was in for… Maine Coons are well known for their large, impressive size, standing approximately 10-16 inches tall when full-grown. Their long, busy coat and tufted feet are well-insulated and water-resistant, allowing them to survive even in harsh winter climates. After bringing the young kitten home, he started to grow quickly. It wasn’t long until Finn reached then surpassed the typical Maine Coon size. By the time he reached his full-grown adult size, he measured a shocking 51 inches long and weighed 22 pounds.

Liberty Dogs Foundation Is Training First 4 Puppies for Veterans

Liberty Dogs in Reno, Nevada is a new training program that will provide service dogs to veterans. Though the facility isn’t expected to open until 2026, they are already training four puppies who will go on to help veterans with various disabilities.  

Elevate Your Pet's Wellbeing with Purina Pro Plan Innovative Nutrition

NOTE: This is sponsored content produced in partnership with Purina and PetSmartIn a world where our pets are not just companions but cherished members of the family, providing them with the best possible care is paramount. Central to that care is nutrition, and for those who seek the pinnacle of advanced, scientifically-backed formulas for their dogs and cats, Purina and their Pro Plan line stands as an industry leader.A Legacy of Innovation in Pet NutritionAt the heart of the Purina Pro Plan line is an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of pet nutrition. This dedication is powered by a formidable team of over 500 nutritionists, veterinarians, and scientists who work tirelessly to develop formulas that meet the diverse needs of pets at every stage of their lives. With over 140 targeted formulas, Pro Plan offers a solution for every pet, whether it’s a dog with a sensitive tummy or an aging cat requiring a diet that supports cognitive health and longevity.Trusted by Experts, Chosen by Champions

A Month of TLC Transforms a Practically Feral Dog Into a Loving Pet

A two-year-old Great Pyrenees, named Wesley, arrived at Austin Pets Alive with a nasty-looking neck wound. One look at the fluffy pooch would surely melt your heart, but a month ago Wesley desperately hoped no one would look his way. According to a post from Austin Pets Alive, rescuers found a practically feral Wesley running with a pack of stray dogs. A concerned citizen called Austin Animal Center after they spotted a fluffy dog with a serious-looking neck wound. After receiving the call, Austin Animal Center picked up the injured Great Pyrenees and removed a piece of old rope that was embedded in the dog’s neck. Since Wesley still required medical assistance after the rope was removed, Austin Animal Center transferred him to Austin Pets Alive.   Wesley arrived at the rescue frightened and in pain. “He needed lots of medical care, attention, and his favorite snack, cheese, which he prefers to enjoy when no one’s watching,” said Clare Callison, the director of national programs at Austin Pets Alive. Thanks to donations, the rescue was able to cover the cost of Wesley’s wound care, which totaled hundreds of dollars. “Our community’s love for pets is immense and generous donations help cover Wesley’s medical expenses and ensure he receives the best care possible.”While donations helped heal Wesley’s flesh wounds, Alex, an Austin Pets Alive staff member helped mend the dog’s broken heart. “The fluffy boy was in need of our Medical Triage & Wellness Clinic due to a large wound around his neck, but he was practically feral, so giving him medical attention required some added patience,” wrote Austin Pets Alive in a Facebook post. Over the next several weeks, “Alex showed up for Wesley day in and day out, patiently showing this injured soul that people can be good and offer love. Gradually trust was gained and these two formed a friendship that will last a lifetime,” the rescue wrote in a post. When Wesley first arrived at the rescue, he was shut down and scared. The poor pooch didn’t want to be seen or touched, shying from any physical affection. Over time and thanks to Alex’s continued efforts, Wesley started to open up. Gradually, the pup began to acclimate to love and affection, starting with gentle touches and petting and working up to real play sessions. At first, Wesley was terrified of wearing a harness and walking on a leash. But thanks to Alex’s patience and a lot of delicious treats the fluffy pup is no longer scared of being leashed and enjoys going on long walks. Only a month after he arrived at the rescue in a horrifying condition, Wesley has blossomed into a trusting and loving dog. Soon after, Wesley was deemed healthy and placed in a foster-to-adopt home, handpicked by Alex. The pup’s new family has spent weeks getting to know him and learning about his routine and the things he likes and dislikes. According to Austin Pets Alive, Wesley has settled nicely into his new home and has adjusted to his new family.This pooch made a 180 transforming from a practically feral stray dog to a loving and affectionate companion to his new family. This goes to show that a little patience, love, and determination can make a huge difference in the life of a stray dog.  Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.