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How Much Water Should My Horse Drink Daily?

Hydration is very important for all animals, especially horses. Large and powerful animals, equines can require plenty of water on a daily level. Hydration is thus a vital aspect of maintaining a horse's health and performance. Like humans, horses rely on water to regulate their body temperature, support digestion, and facilitate the smooth functioning of their organs. Understanding how much water a horse needs daily can help prevent dehydration and related health issues, ensuring the animal's overall well-being. So here is what you need to know.How Much Water Should My Horse Drink Daily?On average, an adult horse should consume between 5 to 10 gallons of water per day (18 to 37 liters). This amount can vary based on several factors, including the horse’s size, activity level, diet, and the climate in which it lives. Larger horses, especially those engaged in strenuous activity, will typically require more water. For instance, a racehorse or a horse working in a hot environment may need closer to 15 gallons a day to stay properly hydrated.Of course, foals and younger horses may drink less water than adults, but it is still essential to provide them with easy access to fresh, clean water to promote healthy growth and development. Still, there are several factors that affect water consumption, and the foremost of these is a horse’s activity level. The more a horse exercises, the more water it will need. Horses sweat during physical exertion, losing both water and electrolytes. Replenishing this lost fluid is crucial to prevent dehydration, muscle cramps, and heat exhaustion.Diet is also crucial - horses that consume large amounts of hay, which is dry and low in moisture content, will drink more water than those on fresh pasture grass, which contains higher levels of moisture. Additionally, horses fed grains or high-protein feeds may also require more water to aid digestion.Owners also have to take into account the weather conditions. Horses living in hot or humid climates will naturally need more water to stay cool. Similarly, horses in colder environments may drink less water, but it's still important to monitor their intake to avoid dehydration, which can be a concern even in winter. Providing slightly warmed water during cold months can encourage a horse to drink more.

How Do I Travel with a Small Animal or Reptile?

Whether you’re planning an epic road trip, a family vacation, or simply need to transport your pet for a vet appointment, traveling with a pet always requires careful planning and preparation. Many guides are available, sharing tips and tricks for traveling with dogs and cats, but what about the many other pets we share our hearts and homes with?From choosing the right carrier to ensuring your pet is safe and comfortable throughout your adventure, we’ve thought of it all. This guide will provide essential tips for stress-free travel with your small animal or reptile.Do Reptiles or Small Animals Like Traveling? Before planning your big adventure with your pet by your side, take a moment to ask yourself an important question – will your pet be comfortable traveling? The answer to this is going to vary from pet to pet. While some are comfortable in new environments or around people they don’t know, others will find this experience incredibly stressful. Excess stress can harm your pet’s health and well-being. It has been associated with a weakened immune system, gastrointestinal problems, an increased risk of heart disease, and skin issues. It’s also considered the root cause of many common behavioral problems. If you know that traveling will likely trigger stress or anxiety in your pet, you may want to reconsider your plans. It may not be in their best interest to join you on your next vacation or getaway. Instead, find a reputable pet sitter to care for them while you’re gone in the comfort of their own home. However, there are also situations where this may be unavailable. For example, if you are moving to a new home, your pet will have to make the trip. You may not be able to eliminate all stress, but you can focus on making the situation as comfortable as possible with the following tips and tricks. What is the Best Way to Transport a Reptile? We don’t often see reptiles traveling with their people, and this is for one clear reason – even when a reptile is being transported, the best way to do it is in a secure container that minimizes their outside exposure. Reptiles are far more sensitive to temperature changes than most other pets. Keeping them in a secure but well-ventilated container allows you to maintain as stable a temperature as possible throughout your travels. Before heading out, check the weather. Will you be navigating hot summer temperatures or the cold of winter? Prepare to address these problems in advance by using heat packs or insulating the container they will be traveling in. Introduce your reptile to the container days or even weeks before your trip. Start with very short periods in the container and work up over time, allowing them to get used to being there. This isn’t a quick process, but it will help to lower stress levels during your travels. If traveling with a snake, you can also use a breathable snake bag or secure pillowcase to help them feel safe and secure. What is the Best Way to Transport a Small Animal? The term “small animal” refers to a wide range of animals, each with their own needs. This can significantly impact the best way to travel with your pet. The smallest of our beloved pocket pets, like mice and hamsters, should be transported in a secure cage or carrier. The size and style of the carrier will depend on how you are traveling and the length of your trip. For example, a flight-approved carrier has strict rules you will need to consider. However, if you’re taking a road trip with your pet and have space in your vehicle, you could even transport your pet in a standard cage or habitat, like the Kaytee CritterTrail Simple Start Habitat. These small enclosures may not offer the recommended long-term living space, but they are a great option for traveling in style. Another small animal carrier that is highly recommended is the Kaytee Come Along Carrier. Pay careful attention to anything in the cage/carrier that could be knocked over or thrown around if you are forced to hit the brakes. Secure the carrier or cage where possible to keep it from being thrown in an accident. A sheet or blanket can be placed over the carrier to reduce outside stimuli and create a more comfortable environment, but be sure that proper ventilation is maintained. Consider adding something familiar, like a favorite toy or blanket when setting up the cage or carrier. For some pets, a piece of your clothing, like a t-shirt you have worn with your scent, is also comforting and can help reduce stress. Larger small animals, like rabbits or ferrets, may also be comfortable traveling in a backpack or carrier designed for cats or small dogs. Ensure they will be secure in the carrier with no risk of escape. Even well-behaved pets used to being carried around at home may panic in an unfamiliar situation and try to make a run for it. Harness training your pet before your travels will allow you to add another level of safety and security. Are Reptiles and Small Animals Allowed on Planes? Yes, but with limitations. Many airlines will allow reptiles and small animals to be transported by air. However, most require that these animals be secured in the cargo hold during the flight. You will need to check with the specific airline for requirements in terms of carrier size and other steps for security to avoid your pet escaping and being lost. Some airlines will allow specified small animals to travel in the cabin. For example, Frontier Airlines allows rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters to be “carried on flights within the United States for a one-way directional charge.” If you are traveling internationally, only cats and dogs are permitted in the cabin. Pet policies are constantly changing and evolving. To ensure your pet will be welcome on the plane with you, contact the airline you are considering flying with and ask for their most up-to-date rules and regulations to determine what pets are permitted and the carrier requirements.

How Long Can You Leave a Labradoodle Alone?

Labradoodles – an adorable mix of Poodles and Labrador Retrievers – are renowned for their affectionate, playful, and energetic nature. These intelligent, social dogs thrive on companionship, making them less suited to long periods of solitude. If you’re considering adding a Labradoodle to your family, it’s essential to understand how long they can comfortably be left alone – and how to meet their needs while you’re away.How Long Can You Leave a Labradoodle Alone?Several factors determine how well a Labradoodle can handle alone time, including their age, training, and individual temperament. With the right preparation and understanding, you can ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy, even when you’re not home.Alone Time by AgePuppies (Up to 6 Months)Labradoodle puppies require constant care, attention, and socialization. With tiny bladders and boundless energy, they need frequent potty breaks, playtime, and interaction. Puppies should not be left alone for more than 2–3 hours at a time. To keep them comfortable, provide a cozy bed and their favorite toy to entertain or comfort them during short absences.

Do Dogs Need Fiber in Their Diet?

Fiber is an integral part of a balanced diet for your dog, just like it is for humans. It helps ensure their digestive system runs smoothly and can also play an essential role in weight management (or weight loss if that’s what you’re working toward).But how much fiber does a dog actually need, and what is the best way to add fiber to their diet?In this guide, I’ll discuss why fiber is important for your dog's health and well-being, the different types of fiber, and the best options to boost fiber content in their diet. Let’s get started…How Much Fiber Does a Dog Need?While I would love to say the answer to this question is easy, it’s not as simple as giving a specific amount that will work for every dog’s ideal diet. Instead, the amount of fiber needed will vary considerably based on several factors, including your dog’s age, weight, digestive health, or any conditions they currently live with relating to their digestive system.For example, a senior dog usually needs more fiber than a young, healthy adult dog as their bodies in these later years have a more challenging time with different stages of the digestive process. Our golden oldies often suffer from conditions like constipation that, while not life-threatening, do have an impact on their overall quality of life. Making changes to the fiber they are consuming can offer relief.That being said, experts use some general guidelines to create a foundation for these decisions. Depending on who you ask, fiber recommendations for a healthy adult dog range from 1.5% to 4% of a complete diet.How Can Fiber Help My Dog?As already mentioned, fiber can help support a healthy digestive system. But what exactly does this nutrient do to help keep your dog happy and healthy? Let’s look at some of the benefits of fiber for dogs:Encourage Healthy Bowel MovementsIf you have a dog that suffers occasionally (or regularly) from constipation, you may be searching for a solution to help regulate their system, soften waste, and make doing their business easier. After all, no one wants to live with that discomfort, including our dog! Including the right amount of fiber in your dog’s diet can help move waste through the intestines more quickly, softening stool and allowing it to pass on a more frequent schedule.But be careful – too much fiber can also be hazardous. You don’t want your dog to deal with constipation, but diarrhea can also be upsetting and uncomfortable. The goal is to find a happy medium for healthy bowel movements.Prevent Anal Gland ProblemsThe anal glands are an element of a dog’s health that is sometimes overlooked simply because we don’t understand their function or don’t want to discuss that general area. However, ignoring your dog’s anal gland health can lead to severe complications.These little pouches serve an essential role in communication. When your dog does their business, they release a strongly scented fluid that will share key information with other dogs that discover it, including their age, sex, and overall health. However, if that fluid isn’t released with your dog’s bowel movements, it can lead to pain, swelling, infection, and abscesses.One way to promote better anal gland release is to ensure your dog is passing healthy stools, which can be accomplished with the help of fiber.Regulate Blood Sugar Levels If your dog is a diabetic and has been prescribed a medical approach to manage their blood sugar levels, don’t consider this a reliable alternative. However, for healthy dogs, having their blood sugar suddenly spike can actually lead to diabetes and other health problems. Therefore, one of the best ways to prevent these conditions is by keeping their blood sugar balanced and regular. Fiber works by slowing some stages of the digestive process, which also slows the amount of sugar released into your dog’s bloodstream. This isn’t to say it magically eliminates sugars from your dog’s diet, but it spreads out when they are absorbed into the bloodstream, preventing a sudden sugar spike.

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.

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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. 

How Long Can You Leave Your Cat Alone at Home?

Cats are generally considered self-sufficient, independent, and somewhat aloof pets. In many cases, they won’t ask for constant attention, and will sometimes act as if they own you. Still, even though these can be very smart and free-spirited pets, the question remains – how independent are they really? Some owners wonder whether it is a smart decision to leave their cat alone at home even if they are not clingy, and if they will be able to stay safe in that case. Here’s what to know about leaving your feline friend home alone. How Long Can You Leave Your Cat Alone at Home?Sure, cats are independent and quirky. But like all animals and pets out there, they will require your attention and regular care. And even though they are much more independent than dogs, they will still rely on a steady routine that provides them with water, food, and a clean litter box. Usually, adult cats can be left alone for up to 24 to 48 hours, but it's essential to provide sufficient food, water, and clean litter before you leave.

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World's Tallest Dog, Kevin, Dies Unexpectedly at Age Three

The world’s tallest male dog, Kevin, has died unexpectedly just days after his record-breaking accomplishment was announced to the world. According to a statement issued by the Guinness World Records, the gentle giant, who was only three years old, passed away after falling ill and undergoing an unexpected surgery. In March, Guinness World Records officially recognized Kevin as the world’s tallest living male dog.“Our whole family is devastated about Kevin. He was just the best giant boy,” said Kevin’s owner, Tracy Wolfe, in a statement. “We are so glad that he was able to break the record and have that light on him. He absolutely adored the attention. I wish these giant breeds, and all dogs, could live longer than they do. It’s never enough time.” Kevin secured his record after measuring 3ft 2in (0.97 meters) tall from his feet to his withers, or the ridge between the shoulder blades. However, when he stood up on his hind legs, Kevin was around 7ft tall, which is a foot taller than the average American man.The gentle giant got the title of the world’s tallest living male dog after the crown remained unclaimed for six months following the death of another American Great Dane. The previous record holder, Zeus, was 3ft 5.18in (1.046 meters) tall. Zeus had his right front leg amputated while battling bone cancer. Like Kevin, Zeus was only three years old when he suddenly died after developing a severe case of pneumonia. Just a few weeks ago, Guinness World Records published an interview with Kevin’s family, about how their pooch would act like he was clueless about his size. Wolfes described Kevin as a “gentle giant” who loved nothing more than snoozing on the sofa.“Kevin’s favorite activity is probably taking naps. Holding the couch down is his favorite pastime, I think,” said Tracy Wolfe. “Kevin is funny, and he is super duper friendly. In fact, overly friendly. You don’t want to keep your mouth open too much when he’s around,” she added. Named after the leading character in the Home Alone film series, Kevin was petrified of the vacuum cleaner. “He won’t let it come within six feet of him,” said Tracy adding that he would jump and run away from it. Many cats and dogs are terrified of vacuum cleaners because of the loud noises they produce. But Kevin’s fear of the vacuum cleaner was comical, considering how he towered over most things around him and was often mistaken for a small horse. The Wolfes welcomed Kevin into their family when he was just a puppy and couldn’t imagine that he would grow so big as to claim the title of the world’s tallest dog. The pooch was close to all members of the family but had developed a special bond with the Wolfes’ son Alexander, who took him to training classes.Despite his imposing size, Kevin was a scaredy cat. The first time Alexandar took Kevin to a training class at a youth development and monitoring organization, the pooch got so afraid that he soiled himself in the middle of the class. Kevin attracted attention wherever he went and he enjoyed every second of it. Sadly his stint as the world’s tallest living male dog was unexpectedly cut short. A spokesperson for the Guinness World Records said: “We are deeply saddened to learn that Kevin suddenly passed away after unexpected health complications. Tracy and the team at the vet clinic she works in did everything they could to save Kevin after he became ill. Our thoughts and support are with the Wolfe family as they navigate this difficult time.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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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.

What Collar is Best for My Dog?

When choosing a collar for our dogs, we often focus on elements like the color, pattern, or preferred material. However, there is much more to consider than just the style and aesthetic. Selecting the best collar is essential for your dog’s safety, comfort, and overall well-being.However, with so many different collar options available, deciding which will best suit your dog and their lifestyle can be overwhelming.This guide will break down the different types of collars, their purpose, and the factors you should consider. From standard nylon collars to tick-prevention products, you’ll find everything you need to make a confident decision when shopping for your dog.Choosing the Right Collar for Your DogSelecting a collar can feel overwhelming. There is so much to consider, from functionality to style. So, let’s start at square one. Here are the most common types of dog collars and the situations they are most often recommended for:Traditional Flat Collar This is the most common type of dog collar you will see. Traditional flat collars get their name because they lay flat against your dog’s neck. They come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and materials, including leather, nylon, cotton, and Biothane, among others. The collars usually feature a D-ring or O-ring to attach a leash or hold your dog’s ID tags and a buckle to make it easy to put the collar on/take it off as needed. Flat collars are the most recommended option for ensuring your dog has basic identification on them on a day-to-day basis. Most dogs wear a flat collar around their yard, in the car, on walks, and in other routine situations. Martingale Collar At first glance, a martingale collar looks similar to a flat collar. However, when you look closer, you’ll see an additional loop on the back of the collar that tightens when the dog pulls. The slight tightening can be used to train a dog not to pull when walking, making it a popular training tool. Martingale collars also help prevent a dog from pulling their head out of the collar and escaping, which is an important consideration for dogs who are a flight risk or those with narrow heads roughly the same circumference as their neck, like sighthounds. They are often used in shelters and rescue organizations for this reason.Head CollarMany will argue that these aren’t just a collar. However, they do include a portion that goes around the neck, and they serve a purpose comparable to other collars on the list, so I feel they deserve to be mentioned. Head collars are best described as a horse halter for dogs. One loop of the collar goes around the neck like usual, while a second loop goes around the snout. The leash attaches just below the snout, allowing the handler to direct the dog by guiding their head. These are a popular choice for dogs who pull. If your dog starts to pull, as they would with another collar type or on a harness, the head collar will cause the head to turn and redirect the dog back toward you. They are also recommended for situations where the handler may not have the physical ability to hold back a pulling dog. Head collars are widely used in the service dog community. Unfortunately, if misused, these collars can cause serious damage. This happens most often if the dog tries to bolt, jerking their head suddenly to the side and injuring the neck. The use of a head collar should be paired with proper training. Tracking Collars and GPS CollarIf you plan on traveling or adventuring with your dog, you may want to consider purchasing a GPS collar. They are also commonly recommended for dogs who are escape artists or flight risks. These collars feature a unit that tracks your pet's location and movement using global positioning satellite technology. This can help locate your dog if they wander off or get lost. There are two main types of GPS collars, such as: Basic Tracking Collars: The most common type, these collars rely on a nearby phone or device or the presence of a cellular network to pick up and transmit the collar’s location. Example: Fi Series 3 Smart Dog CollarHunting or Backcountry Trackers: These collars are a bigger investment due to their advanced tracking technology. They are designed to work in remote areas where basic tracking collars fail to connect. Example: Garmin Astro 430/T 5 Dog Tracking BundleAdditionally, tracking devices like the Tractive GPS Tracker for Dogs are separate units that can be attached to any collar, transforming your standard collar into a tracking collar. It should be noted that many tracking collars are not a “one and done” investment. Instead, you will need a monthly subscription for a small fee to keep using their network. For example, the subscription for Tractive devices starts at $5/month. If you cancel this subscription, you can no longer access the collar’s location.Flea/Tick CollarDesigned to help prevent fleas and ticks, these collars contain an anti-parasitic medication that is slowly released into your pet’s skin over time. Like a topical preventative, the active chemical is absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body. While all collars work by killing fleas and ticks if they bite, others will work to repel the pests from even showing interest. These collars are still a chemical product and should be approached with caution. Some dogs will have adverse reactions. If introducing a flea/tick collar for the first time, monitor your dog carefully for any sign of trouble. LED CollarA growing trend with a focus on nighttime safety, LED collars feature bright LED lights that can be turned on, either as a solid light or with various flashing patterns, to make your dog visible in the dark. They come in one basic size and can then be cut down to fit your dog, making the collar easy to adjust to dogs of any size. Many of these collars are a one-time-use product, needing to be replaced when the included battery dies. However, with a growing interest in sustainability, companies are now selling rechargeable options. Our dogs wear the Nite Ize NiteHowl Max Rechargeable LED Safety Necklace. If you don’t want to deal with a full LED collar or prefer something you can keep safely tucked away in your pocket or purse to pull out when needed, the Nite Ize SpotLit Rechargeable Collar Light is a great option. This little light just clips onto their existing collar or harness.

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Environmental Enrichment for Pet Birds

Environmental enrichment is important for all pets, from dogs and cats to rodents and birds. When it comes to your feathered companions, you can keep them happy, entertained, healthy, and stress-free by providing a safe environment, toys, yummy foods, and physical and mental stimulation. To help you get started, here are a few tips you can implement to make your bird’s home even better.

Does My Cat Need a Litter Box When Travelling?

Traveling with your best furry friend by your side can be an exciting adventure. It’s a great opportunity to make lifelong memories while strengthening that special bond. However, some questions about their essential needs will naturally arise as you start planning…One of the biggest concerns for cat owners is whether or not to bring a litter box. It’s a valid question!This article will explore the pros and cons of traveling with a litter box. I’ll also discuss the different litter box types available and which may be best suited for different forms of travel, including road trips, camping, hotel stays, and more.Ensure a smooth journey for both you and your cat by checking out these tips and recommendations:Do Cats Need a Litter Box When Traveling?Whether or not your cat will need a litter box during your travels will depend on the style of travel you plan. Setting your cat up comfortably in your vehicle for a long road trip makes it much easier to provide access to a litter box during travel than flying with a cat.You must also consider the length of your travels, where you will stay overnight, and other factors related to your vacation plans. While your cat can take a flight safely without access to a box (assuming they have been given a chance to do their business before boarding the plane and after you have landed), the same can’t be said for an overnight stay at a pet-friendly hotel.Let’s break it all down a little further…How Do You Travel with a Cat Without a Litter Box?Some travel plans simply can’t accommodate the use of a litter box. The most common example of this is flying with a cat. However, litter boxes are also off the table when taking your cat on other forms of public transit, like a bus or train.If you know your cat will be without their litter box for an extended period, allow them to “do their business” right before your travels begin. Many airports have dog bathroom stations, where you could also go to let your cat relieve themselves. Alternatively, you may choose to let them have their last bathroom break before leaving your cat to enter the airport.One way to handle this is to bring a disposable litter box with a small amount of litter when you leave the house. Alternatively, if your cat is a frequent traveler, you may be able to train them to do their business on a puppy pee pad. This is easier to bring along in these situations and easier to dispose of when they are finished.It is also recommended to not feed your cat at least six hours before any travel where a litter box won’t be available. This allows any food in their system to hopefully pass, reducing the risk they will need to go and, in turn, preventing accidents. Although, I still recommend lining their carrier with a pee pad as an extra layer of protection.How Long Can Cats Go Without a Litter Box?Will your cat be without a litter box for a while during travel? Don’t fret! While you shouldn’t encourage your cat to “hold it” on a regular basis, cats have been known to go 24-48 hours safely without going to the bathroom. This is, of course, the extreme. However, it does mean that a 6-hour flight isn’t a significant concern.Of course, every cat is different. Some cats will be able to wait this time without a problem. Others, however, may need to go to the bathroom more frequently. This is especially important to note if you have a kitten, a senior cat, or a cat with a medical condition that could impact their bathroom needs.What is the Best Type of Litter Box for Your Cat-Friendly Travels?There are several different types of cat litter boxes to choose from, each with its own pros and cons. Let’s look at the options available and which may be the best choice for your next vacation (and why):Standard Plastic Litter BoxesIf you are traveling in an RV or travel trailer, you may be able to bring your cat’s usual litter box. Some common places to place a box include inside a floor-level cupboard, under a bench seat, or in the shower area when the shower isn’t in use.The biggest benefit of bringing your cat’s litter box from home is familiarity. Your cat knows that box, and it already has their scent. While the box's location is obviously going to change, having so many familiar elements may make it easier for your cat to adjust, reducing the risk of accidents.Cloth Travel Litter BoxesThese travel litter boxes are constructed from a durable material with a leak-proof lining, creating a lighter-weight solution for travel. I recommend choosing a cloth box with a lid. This allows you to seal off the box, keeping the litter (and odor) contained and allowing you to make a litter box accessible when needed without having to empty and refill it each time. Cloth boxes also usually have some form of carrying handle.The HiCaptain Portable Travel Litter Box is an excellent example of a standard cloth travel box. However, if your cat is used to a covered box at home, you may want to splurge on the Petsfit Upgrade Travel Portable Cat Litter Box.Nylon Travel Litter BoxA favorite of mine for travel due to how small it folds up, the OutdoorBengal Travel Litter Box for Cats is a portable and fully collapsible litter box option that folds up smaller than any other box on this list. We often use this box when backpacking or backcountry camping, where we are extremely limited on space for our gear.When your cat needs to use the box, snap the four corners together, and this flat piece of material transforms into a square box. It is constructed with a waterproof Oxford liner that can be easily wiped clean with a disinfectant wipe for quick and effective cleaning.