3 Fun Toys to Treat Your Pup to This Fall

Lucky Has Spent 1,500 Days in a Shelter Waiting for a Forever Home

Some dogs get scooped up within days of arriving at a shelter. A few might wait a little longer. Then there’s Lucky, a sweet, misunderstood Labrador mix who’s been in a California rescue for more than four years.That’s 1,500 days of watching other dogs come and go. Of hearing excited voices, footsteps, the rattle of leashes, and none of it for him.Lucky has been living at AGWC Rockin’ Rescue in Woodland Hills since 2021. He came in after being rescued from a rough situation. His background’s a bit of a mystery. But it’s clear he didn’t have much of a foundation, no real training, no one to teach him how to be a pet, and no reason to trust people. Yet somehow, he’s never stopped trying.“He’s not the kind of dog who jumps up and licks your face the second you meet him,” said Fabienne Origer, a staff member at the rescue who’s known Lucky for years. “But once he bonds with you, he’s deeply loyal. He’ll follow you around, he’ll lean in for affection—he just needs someone to give him the time to feel safe.”And that’s been the hardest part. In the chaos of a rescue, dogs who take a little time to warm up often get overlooked. People want an instant connection, and Lucky doesn’t offer that. He’s quiet, he studies people, he waits.As a result, most visitors pass right by.Over the years, the rescue has done everything it can to keep Lucky’s spirits up. He goes on walks. He gets enrichment games. The staff works with him regularly to help him stay mentally sharp and emotionally grounded. And it’s clear he still has so much to give, he's a bright and curious pooch, eager to learn. He just needs a home that’s calm, consistent, and committed.“He thrives when he knows what to expect,” Origer said. “A quiet home, no kids, someone experienced with dogs, that’s all he needs. Just one person who’s willing to go a little slower and let him come around.”Recently, the rescue posted a video of Lucky lying in his kennel, head on his paws, eyes staring off toward the front door. It wasn’t dramatic. There was no music, no narration. Just Lucky, waiting. And somehow that was enough. The comments poured in, some heartbroken, some angry, many asking, how is this dog still here?It’s a good question. Because the truth is, there’s nothing wrong with Lucky; he just doesn’t fit into a box. He’s not flashy or showy, and he doesn’t love everyone on sight. But he does love deeply, once he decides you’re safe. And if you’re lucky enough to earn that trust, you’ll never find a more loyal friend.Shelters do everything they can, but they’re not homes. And after four years, Lucky is starting to show signs of wear. He still has hope—he still perks up for his walks, still chases after a ball, but there’s a tiredness in his eyes that wasn’t there before. A quiet question: Is anyone ever going to come for me?If you’re reading this and thinking, maybe I could be the one, the rescue would love to hear from you. Lucky’s not for everyone. But for the right person, he’ll be everything.He’s not giving up. And neither are the people who love him.But after 1,500 days, it’s time for Lucky to find his person and go home. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

3 Heartwarming Stories of Rescue Dogs Finding Their Forever Homes

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

Vet Pinpoints Common Household Dangers for Pets

No other place feels like home; it’s where our furry companions feel cozy and safe. However, some common household objects can turn a loving home into a danger zone.A second-year emergency and critical care resident at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Dr. Shayna Doyle, warns pet parents about common but unsuspecting toxins found in homes and shares tips on how to keep our four-legged friends safe from these potential dangers. Pets, especially cats, are known to be curious and always in the mood to explore every nook and cranny of their homes. Sometimes, unfortunately, these adventures can put a pet’s life in danger. Electrical cords, insect repellent, and certain human medications, including ibuprofen, aspirin, alprazolam, and acetaminophen, among many others, can be dangerous and even fatal to pets. But meds aren’t the only items that can send your beloved pet to the vet. Many pet parents are unaware that common household plants like lilies and Dieffenbachia are very toxic to cats and dogs. Ingesting them can cause kidney damage, heart problems, convulsions, and even death.The kitchen, the place where all cats and dogs want to be, is a true danger zone. Items like coffee, chocolate, alcohol, and peanut butter are toxic to cats and dogs. “A sharp item like an animal bone can poke holes anywhere and everywhere, including in a pet’s mouth, esophagus, stomach, and intestines,” said Doyle. “They can also get stuck in their jaw or esophagus.”Eating bones can cause blockages in the small intestine, which are often life-threatening and require immediate surgery. While exploring their homes, cats and dogs can come across stray batteries, which contain countless potentially harmful chemicals. Mercury, sulphuric acid, nickel, lead, and cadmium are found even in the smallest batteries and are toxic to pets. “Button batteries, or the flat batteries you might put in a garage door opener, for example, are the worst kind of battery for pets to ingest,” said Doyle. “These batteries generate electrical current on any moist surface, so they can burn through an animal's entire gastrointestinal tract and create extremely severe symptoms.” Keeping an eye on pets as they snoop around the house is the best way to keep them safe from common household toxins. Pet parents should also be aware of their pet’s health and look for signs of poisoning. The most common symptoms of toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, wobbly gait, behavioral changes, loss of appetite, and lethargy. “If symptoms are something you’d be worried about in a human child, it’s worth having a pet evaluated by a veterinarian,” Doyle added. Even if you do everything right and pet-proof your home, accidents can still happen. Pets are known to go to great lengths to get into things they shouldn’t. A spilled drink, leftover yarn, or a small battery may seem insignificant but prove fatal for a pet. “Just as parents would child-proof a home, pet owners should pet-proof a home. That means keeping all dangerous items out of reach, even ones you think your pet wouldn’t go to eat or chew on,” said Doyle. “When animals are bored, home alone, or unsupervised, they can do things that we would never expect, so it’s important to be prepared to try to prevent as many negative outcomes as possible.” Once you learn which common household items can harm your four-legged companion, you’ll be able to take steps to keep those items out of your pet’s reach and have a plan in case you need to rush your pet to an emergency veterinary clinic if poisoning occurs.  Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Dogs Are Helping People Deal With Stress More Than Expected

If you’ve ever found your shoulders unknotted simply by petting your dog after a long day, you’re definitely not alone. But now science at the University of Denver is showing just how powerful that furry comfort can be.A new study led by the University of Denver’s Institute for Human‑Animal Connection (IHAC) has uncovered something pretty remarkable: pet dogs don’t just reduce stress, they actually help regulate it in a more nuanced, biological way than researchers expected.Researchers recruited 44 dog‑owning participants and randomly assigned them to two groups. One group brought their dog to a mildly stressful lab test, and the other group faced it alone. The test involved giving a job‑interview style speech and doing mental math under pressure.During the study, researchers measured heart rate, salivary cortisol, and alpha‑amylase (a stress enzyme), and had participants rate their anxiety. What they found was pretty fascinating! Although both groups saw increases in stress, those with their dogs present had significantly lower spikes in heart rate and cortisol. Heart rate rose about 14.6% with dogs present vs. 26.7% without. And cortisol responses were more than 50% lower when a dog was by your side.What surprised researchers is that salivary alpha‑amylase actually only rose in the dog group, by 97.6%, suggesting not just suppression of stress, but a healthy, balanced response. Participants in the dog‑present group sometimes ended with cortisol levels even lower after recovery than when they first arrived. A sign of faster stress recovery.According to IHAC communicators, “dogs may be able to support a balanced, intermediate stress response. Instead of just reducing the stress response, a dog can actually help to maintain regular stress levels”.Although participants didn’t report significantly less anxiety in self‑ratings (that metric was about the same whether the dog was present or not), the physiological signs tell a different story. It turns out our heart, our hormones, and even specific enzymes respond better when our dogs are with us, even if our minds think otherwise.This study breaks ground by measuring several biological systems at once, something previous research lacked. IHAC hopes to expand this work, exploring whether dogs might help with chronic stress, anxiety disorders, or recovery from trauma. In fact, upcoming work from DU researchers will look at service dogs with veterans dealing with PTSD, mapping long‑term hormone changes and even protein biomarkers over months of pairing.The goal is ambitious yet relatable: uncovering how dogs, our partners, confidants, and fluffy overlords shape our bodies’ stress responses, not just our minds.So what’s the practical takeaway? Even on hectic days, carve out a few minutes to connect with your dog. Sit on the couch together, take a short walk, or let them curl up beside you while you breathe deeply. It’s not just sweet, it might actually cut your cortisol and keep your heart rate steadier.And if someone ever downplays your pup’s value beyond fetch games or cuteness? Share the facts. Dogs are scientifically shown to be better at regulating stress than parents, partners, or close friends in some respects, and just as helpful on our toughest days.So next time someone says your dog is just a pet, smile knowingly. You're not only living with a furry companion, you might be living with your best therapist yet.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Do Cats Make the Purr-fect Therapy Animals?

Therapy dogs are trained to provide support and affection to people in hospitals, care centers, hospices, and nursing homes. While dogs make amazing therapy pets, therapy cats are becoming increasingly popular in animal-assisted therapy. Dogs are widely used to comfort people and help them recover from physical and mental health problems. Like therapy dogs, therapy cats reduce stress and loneliness and offer comfort and companionship. They are recommended for people afraid of dogs or larger therapy animals, like horsesTherapy cats are often taken into unpredictable environments filled with unfamiliar people. That’s exactly the type of setting that can stress a typical cat.Unlike dogs, cats tend to value their territory more than their relationship with humans or other cats. Cats also prefer predictability and stable environments. However, more and more cats can be seen traveling alongside their owners. These felines not only tolerate but flourish in environments that were once believed to be stressful for them. So, what’s up with these cats, and why are they so different? A 2021 study found that some cats can benefit from their owners’ presence in stressful situations and new environments. Animal behavioral researcher, Alexandra Behnke, found that nearly half of the 42 cats tested showed signs of the secure base effect, a bond that helps reduce stress and inspires cats to explore new surroundings when reunited with their owner. This bond could be the thing helping therapy cats feel at ease in new environments. In a recent study, Joni Delanoeije, a researcher in human animal interaction, investigated how therapy cats differ from the average pet cat. The study analyzed data related to 474 cats. Of those cats, 12 had offered animal-assisted services. This study found that therapy cats are friendlier with both people and other cats, more attention-seeking, and less opposed to being restrained.These findings suggest that certain personality traits, like being sociable and easygoing, could make some cats better at handling interactions with people in unfamiliar environments. On the downside, only a small number of therapy cats were involved in this study, and we need more research to lock in any solid answers.Let’s not forget that therapy cats have strong and trusting bonds with their owners. It seems that early socialization and training are also important for preparing cats to deal with the uncertain nature of service work.However, even if a cat possesses all of these traits, it can still face challenges in therapy. A 2023 study of cat-assisted services found that even the best therapy cats may struggle in practice. This study found that 68% of owners ended the visit early when they thought it best for the cat. Owners in this study also reported having strong bonds with their felines. This connection is most likely the reason behind the cat’s ability to adapt, providing a sense of safety and predictability in a potentially difficult situation.Cats are different from dogs in many ways. They have different social needs, temperament, and adaptability. Although these differences must be considered during selection for therapy work, they also come with advantages. For example, therapy cats can be more beneficial to people who are afraid of dogs or those who see themselves as “cat people.”Both cats and dogs elicit similar levels of happiness, but dog images evoke significantly more fear. Fear of dogs could diminish the effects of dog-assisted therapy for some people, making cats a great alternative. Dogs might be the traditional therapy animal, but cats also have what it takes to help people feel better. With a bit of training and the right temperament, cats can soothe and offer support to people of all ages. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Chatty Catty? What Drives those Chirpy Vocalizations?

Instinctive yet entertaining, why some feline's love to chatter away.

Dogs Can Sniff Out Parkinson's Disease, Study Finds

If you’ve ever caught your dog sniffing something way too intensely and wondered what they’re thinking, well, turns out they might be picking up more than just smells. A new study has found that dogs can actually sniff out Parkinson’s disease. Yes, really.The research, led by scientists from the University of Manchester and the University of Bristol, shows that dogs can detect the disease just by smelling skin swabs taken from people’s backs or necks. The study involved two pet dogs, Bumper the Golden retriever and Peanut the Labrador. These pups were trained using treats and lots of praise to tell the difference between samples from people with Parkinson’s and those without it.And they didn’t just guess. In tests, the dogs correctly identified Parkinson’s cases around 80% of the time. Even more impressively, they were right about the “healthy” samples nearly 98% of the time.Dr. Claire Guest, co-founder of Medical Detection Dogs (the organization that helped train Bumper and Peanut), said the results are “hugely encouraging.” She added, “Timely diagnosis is key when it comes to slowing progression of Parkinson’s, and dogs may be able to spot the disease years before symptoms become obvious.”It’s not exactly new that dogs can smell things humans can’t. They’ve already been trained to sniff out certain cancers, detect blood sugar drops in diabetics, and even identify COVID-19 infections. But Parkinson’s has always been a tough one. It's often diagnosed too late, and there’s no single test for it. Right now, doctors rely mostly on observing symptoms like tremors and stiffness, which usually don’t show up until the disease is already well underway.So, how does a dog even do this?People with Parkinson’s seem to produce a different mix of natural oils on their skin, something called sebum, and those oils release compounds that smell just slightly different. Humans can't pick it up, but dogs? Their noses are tens of thousands of times more sensitive than ours. What smells like nothing to us might hit them like a perfume counter.For the study, the researchers collected samples by having people wear gauze patches overnight or by swabbing the backs of their necks. The dogs were then trained to sniff out the ones with Parkinson’s. When they got it right, they were rewarded. It was all positive reinforcement, without pressure.And yes, these were ordinary pet dogs. Not super-dogs, not military or police-trained sniffers. Just well-loved companions who also happened to be very, very good at their jobs.Dr. Nicola Rooney from the University of Bristol, who co-led the research, said that these results show there’s a clear scent profile associated with the disease. “We were impressed with how consistent the dogs were,” she said. “There’s definitely something there.”That “something” could change the way we approach early diagnosis. Imagine a future where a dog’s nose becomes part of routine screenings, especially for people at high risk. Even better, researchers hope to eventually identify exactly which compounds the dogs are smelling so labs can create artificial sensors that work just as well.But for now, it’s hard not to feel a little awe at what dogs can do. They’re not just our walking buddies or food-stealing kitchen shadows. They’re capable of helping us in ways we’re only beginning to understand.And maybe next time your dog won’t stop sniffing you, you’ll pause before pushing them away. They just might know something you don’t.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can My Dog Get Jealous?

You’re giving attention to a new puppy, petting the neighbor’s dog, or maybe even cuddling a baby - and suddenly, your own dog pushes in, whines, or wedges themselves between you and the “intruder.” It definitely feels like jealousy.But is it? Can dogs actually get jealous? The short answer: Yes - sort of.While dogs don’t experience jealousy in quite the same way humans do, they can show possessive, competitive, or attention-seeking behaviors that look a lot like it. Let’s break it down.What Jealousy Looks Like in DogsJealousy in dogs often shows up in subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) ways. You might notice your dog:Pushing between you and another person or petWhining or barking when you give someone else attentionPawing at you or demanding cuddles Guarding toys, food, or even peopleActing out with sudden behaviors like peeing indoors or ignoring commandsThese aren’t just “bad manners” - they’re signals that your dog is feeling insecure, left out, or uncertain about their place in the social circle.Why Dogs Act JealousAt the heart of it, jealousy-like behavior in dogs is often rooted in:Attention shifts - especially if they were once your one-and-onlyChanges in routine - a new baby, pet, partner, or roommateResource guarding - not just food, but people tooA need for reassurance - dogs are incredibly social animals who crave connectionThey’re not being dramatic - they’re responding to what feels like a threat to their bond with you.What the Science SaysResearch backs up what dog owners have long suspected. A 2014 study published in PLOS ONE found that dogs exhibited jealous behaviors - like pushing or interrupting - when their owners showed affection to what appeared to be another dog (in reality, a stuffed dog). The behaviors mirrored how young children react to divided attention.While dogs may not experience jealousy in the full, emotional complexity humans do, it’s clear they can feel possessive, left out, or protective of their relationships.How to Help a “Jealous” DogThe good news is, jealous behavior can be managed - and even prevented - with the right approach. Here’s how:1. Acknowledge Their Feelings (Without Reinforcing Them)It’s okay to comfort your dog, but try not to reward pushy behavior with attention every time. Instead, calmly redirect and reward calm, patient behavior.2. Give One-on-One TimeMake sure your dog still gets regular undivided attention - walks, play, snuggles - especially if there’s a new pet or baby in the house.

3 Things That Might Be Causing Your Dog To Dig Up Your Yard

If you’re a dog owner who’s ever walked outside to find craters scattered across your lawn, you’re not alone. Digging is a natural behavior for dogs, but it can quickly become frustrating. Before you can put a stop to the behavior, it helps to understand why your dog might be digging. Here are three of the most common reasons.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

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

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

How Much Do Cats Sleep?

Cats are known for sleeping through most of the day, but how long do cats sleep, exactly? How many hours per day can you expect your kitty to be sleeping, and what is considered a normal amount of sleep for cats of different ages, from kittens to seniors? We’ve got you covered with answers to all of these questions so you can get to know your feline companion even better.

The Best Hacks for Getting a Sick Dog to Eat

What Temperature Does My Gecko Need?

Keeping your gecko healthy starts with one of the most important factors in reptile care: temperature. Since geckos are cold-blooded and rely on external heat to regulate their body functions, the wrong temperatures can quickly lead to serious problems. Too cold, and your gecko may become sluggish, stop eating, and face health issues. Too hot, and they can overheat or dehydrate.Here’s a breakdown of what different types of pet geckos need when it comes to temperature.Leopard Gecko Temperature NeedsLeopard Geckos are one of the most popular pet geckos. Native to the dry, rocky regions of Afghanistan and Pakistan, they’re built for warm days and cooler nights.Basking spot: 88–92 °F (31–33 °C)Warm side ambient: ~84 °F (29 °C)Cool side: 75–80 °F (24–27 °C)Nighttime drop: 68–72 °F (20–22 °C)These geckos absorb heat through their bellies, so an under-tank heat mat with a thermostat is usually better than an overhead light. It simulates their natural behavior and avoids stressing them out with too much bright light.

Tips for Planning the Perfect Pet-Friendly Summer Vacation

Summer is just around the corner, bringing the promise of sunshine, carefree days, and the irresistible urge to explore with your best friend by your side. After all, there is no one else you would rather share every hike, beach stroll, or cozy evening with. While the idea of planning a vacation with your pet may seem a little overwhelming at first, prompting visions of complicated pet restrictions and costly fees, we’re here to tell you it’s not only possible but well worth the effort. This guide will arm you with all the information you need to plan the best pet-friendly summer vacation. We’ll cover everything from essential pre-tip preparations and packing lists to choosing the perfect destination. Get ready to make unforgettable memories with your pet this season! The Pre-Vacation Checklist Before you even start considering the destination for your getaway, the first and most crucial step in planning any pet-friendly vacation is ensuring your pet is ready for the journey. A little preparation now can help prevent stress and ensure they can enjoy a safe, happy trip. Here’s what you should consider in the days and weeks leading up to your travels: Veterinary Visit & Health Considerations A visit to your veterinarian before your vacation is absolutely essential. This will allow your vet to give your pet a thorough check-up, ensuring they can travel safely. It’s also the perfect time to make sure their vaccinations are up-to-date, particularly for diseases like rabies, distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis, and kennel cough, as requirements and risks can vary by region. Discuss flea, tick, and heartworm prevention with your vet, especially if you plan on spending time outdoors or travelling to areas with a higher risk of exposure to these parasites. If your pet experiences anxiety during car rides or in new environments, your vet can discuss potential travel anxiety medication options to make the journey more comfortable for them. This could include over-the-counter supplements or prescription anxiety medications. Don’t forget to get copies of your pet’s medical records and vaccination certificates (both digital and physical) to have on hand in case of an emergency. Up-to-Date IdentificationIn the unfortunate event that you and your pet become separated, proper ID is their ticket home. First, ensure that your pet’s microchip registration is current and linked to your up-to-date contact information. Double-check that your pet is wearing a collar with proper ID tags that include their name and your current phone number. For extra peace of mind, consider adding a temporary tag with your vacation contact information, such as your cellphone number, the name of your accommodation, your room or campsite number, and the dates of your stay. Fully Stocked First Aid Kit Beyond identification, a well-stocked pet first-aid kit is a must-have. Essential items include bandages, gauze, vet wrap, and tweezers. Keep a physical copy of your pet’s medical documentation in the first aid kit to make it easily accessible in an emergency.Training & Socialization A vacation often means new sights, sounds, and smells for your pet and encounters with unfamiliar people and other animals. For a smooth, safe vacation, consider brushing up on the basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “leave it,” including practicing them in new, distracting environments. Work on leash manners, ensuring your pet can walk politely by your side without pulling. If car rides are a new or stressful experience for your pet, try gradual desensitization. Start with your vehicle parked, offering praise and treats to make the space a happy place. When they are comfortable hanging out in the vehicle, start taking short, positive trips, slowly building up to your vacation. Take note if your pet is reactive or uncomfortable around new people and other animals. Knowing this, you can make smart choices with your pet’s safety and well-being in mind. This may mean choosing the “right” accommodations, avoiding high-traffic public spaces, or planning for less popular times, like hiking early in the morning. Types of Pet-Friendly Vacations Once your pet is travel-ready, it’s time to decide what kind of summer adventure you and your pet will take. The good news is that there are more pet-friendly options than ever before, catering to every travel preference. Pet-Friendly Camping For nature lovers and active pets, camping is an incredible way to get outdoors. It’s often a more cost-effective choice for accommodations. However, you may need to invest in gear if you don’t already own it. When planning a camping trip, start by researching pet-friendly campsites. State parks, national forests, and private campgrounds often welcome pets, but always check their specific rules regarding leash laws, quiet hours, and pet-free designated areas. Consider whether a tent or an RV best suits your family’s needs and your pet’s comfort level. When packing, consider specific gear for your pet, like portable water bowls, a long lead or tether for supervised outdoor time, and pet-safe bug spray. Wilderness safety is essential; be aware of potential wildlife encounters, store pet food properly to avoid attracting animals, and conduct thorough tick checks after outdoor excursions. Always follow the Leave No Trace principles, including picking up after your pet and minimizing their impact on the environment. Once you’re there, the activities are endless, including hitting scenic hiking trails, taking a refreshing dip in designated dog beaches, and simply enjoying the freedom of exploring the great outdoors together. Beach Getaways A trip to the beach can be pure joy for many pets, especially those who love to splash and play in the sand. The key to a fantastic beach getaway with your pet is finding pet-friendly beaches. Rules and regulations can vary widely, with some beaches allowing pets off-leash while others require them on-leash or have restricted hours during peak season. Always do your research beforehand. Safety is paramount while enjoying a day by the water. Ensure your pet stays hydrated by always having plenty of fresh water available. Consider sun protection, especially for short-haired breeds or those with sensitive skin. Be vigilant about heatstroke, taking frequent breaks in the shade. Remember to protect their paw pads from hot sand. Saltwater can be irritating if your beach travels take you to the ocean. Rinse your pet off after swimming and prevent them from ingesting too much. For your pet’s beach bag, pack essentials like a collapsible bowl, plenty of water, a solution for shade (like an umbrella or pop-up tent), and water-friendly toys for endless fun in the waves.

Here’s What Dog Thieves Look Out For

Unfortunately, dog theft is on the rise, especially since some breeds can go for a lot of money. Thieves know this, and they’re always on the lookout for easy targets. The good news? Knowing what they’re looking for can help you keep your dog safe. In this article, we’ll break down how dog thieves operate and what you can do to avoid becoming a target.

How to Care for a Rabbit: A Practical Guide for New Owners

Rabbits are gentle, intelligent, and adorable as it gets - but they’re also often misunderstood. While they might seem like low-maintenance pets, caring for a rabbit requires daily attention, proper setup, and an understanding of their unique needs. Whether you're considering adopting a bunny or you've just welcomed one home, here's what you need to know to help them thrive.Creating the Right Living SpaceBefore anything else, think about where your rabbit will live. Rabbits can live indoors or outdoors, but no matter the setting, they need a safe, spacious, and enriching environment.For indoor rabbits, a large exercise pen or a rabbit-proofed room is ideal. Make sure to cover electrical cords, remove toxic plants, and block access to narrow spaces where they might get stuck. A traditional cage is usually too small - your rabbit should be able to stretch out fully, hop around, and stand up on their hind legs comfortably.

FDA Approves Long-Lasting Flea and Tick Treatment for Dogs

If you’ve ever found yourself flipping through your calendar and panicking over a missed flea treatment, we’ve got news that might change your whole routine. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just approved a once-a-year flea and tick shot for dogs, and it’s already making waves in the pet world.The product, called Bravecto Quantum, is an injectable medication that protects dogs from fleas and ticks for a full 12 months. Yes, you read that right, one vet visit, and your dog is covered for an entire year.The long-acting shot contains fluralaner, the same active ingredient found in other Bravecto products, but this version is specially formulated for extended release. That means no more monthly chewables, no more oily spot-ons, and no more reminders you snooze and forget. Bravecto Quantum has been used in Australia and Europe, but as of July 2025, it’s now officially FDA-approved and set to become available in U.S. veterinary clinics this August.For busy pet parents, this new option could be a total game changer.“Year-round protection in one easy injection,” said Dr. Christine Royal, veterinarian and executive director at Merck Animal Health. “It’s a convenient and effective option that supports compliance and peace of mind.” And that peace of mind is something pet owners know can be hard to come by, especially when juggling a household, a job, and a dog who absolutely refuses to eat that monthly pill hidden in peanut butter.The shot protects against fleas and three major types of ticks - American dog ticks, black-legged ticks, and brown dog ticks - for 12 months. It also offers eight months of protection against lone star ticks, which are increasingly common in many U.S. regions.Bravecto Quantum is administered by a veterinarian, not something you can do at home, which is actually a plus. It guarantees proper dosing and gives you a reason to take your dog for an annual health check, which many vets recommend anyway.Like any medication, it’s not totally risk-free. Fluralaner belongs to the isoxazoline class of drugs, which the FDA has linked to neurological side effects such as tremors and seizures, particularly in dogs with a history of those conditions. Common side effects may include mild injection site discomfort or lethargy, but these are generally short-lived.Dr. Tina Wismer, senior director at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, says this long-acting option could be particularly helpful for certain pet families. “In areas where ticks are active year-round, or for owners who struggle to remember monthly treatments, having a once-a-year injection simplifies things considerably,” she noted.So what’s the upside of Bravecto Quantum for pet parents?For starters, it reduces the risk of gaps in protection. Skipping just one monthly dose can leave your dog vulnerable, not just to fleas, but to serious diseases like Lyme, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, all of which are transmitted by ticks.It also means fewer products in your cabinet, fewer dosing errors, and let’s be honest, fewer wrestling matches with your dog on the kitchen floor.That said, it’s not a magic fix-all. You’ll still want to maintain a clean home environment, wash bedding regularly, and keep your yard tick-free. Flea and tick protection works best when it’s part of a bigger strategy.If your pup is six months or older and in good health, talk to your vet to see if the new shot might be right for them. It might just be the simplest way yet to keep them safe and give you one less thing to worry about for the next 365 days.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Cat Reunited with Owner Two Months After LA Wildfires

The LA wildfires in California were devastating not only because so many people lost their homes, but also because many people lost their pets. But there have been a lot of beautiful rescue and reunion stories in the months since the fires happened, and the story of Aggie the cat is one of them.