4 Curly-Haired Cat Breeds That Are Cute Beyond Words

What Should I Do if My Dog Won't Stop Coughing?

Imagine waking up in the middle of the night to the sound of your dog’s persistent coughing. It’s a scenario that no pet parent wants to face, one that can bring panic and stress. But it’s also an important reminder about one crucial point: Coughing in dogs, while sometimes seemingly minor, can be a sign of underlying health issues – some of which can be pretty serious!The causes of a dog’s cough can vary from simple irritations to more concerning medical conditions. That’s why it’s so important to recognize that a persistent cough isn’t something to ignore.This blog post will provide the information you need to better understand your dog’s cough, identify the potential causes, and (most importantly) know when to seek immediate veterinary help. I will share the different types of coughs, how to recognize the more common causes, and steps you can take to prevent that unwanted cough; keeping your dog happy and healthy.Understanding Coughing in DogsCoughing is a natural reflex designed to clear the airways of irritants. An occasional cough might not be a cause for alarm. In fact, it may even be healthy. For example, if your dog was sniffing outdoors and inhaled a bunch of pollen, coughing could effectively clear this common allergen out of their system. But a persistent cough is a different story.Your dog’s ongoing or constant coughing could signal that something isn’t right, and paying attention is crucial. Understanding the nuances of your dog’s cough and communicating them to your veterinarian can help you reach a diagnosis and find a suitable treatment option faster.Here are the most common types of canine coughs:Honking Cough: Often described as sounding like a goose, this type of cough is frequently associated with kennel cough or tracheal collapse.Dry, Hacking Cough: This type of cough might point towards kennel cough as well, but it could also be triggered by many common allergies or other irritants your dog has been exposed to. Wet, Productive Cough: A wet cough often sounds like your dog is bringing something up. This can be more concerning and is usually associated with pneumonia, heart disease, or other severe medical conditions.Coughing Followed by Vomiting or Gagging: While sometimes seen with kennel cough, it could signal something more serious if your dog is vomiting after they cough.The distinction between these different types is so important. By carefully noting the specific sound and characteristics of your dog’s cough, you can provide your veterinarian with key information they may not be able to collect during an appointment. We’ve all been to a vet appointment where we’ve tried to explain what’s happening because it somehow magically stopped the moment we walked through the door.A short video recording on your phone can be incredibly helpful, allowing your vet to hear the cough firsthand.Common Causes of Coughing in DogsSeveral factors can contribute to your dog’s cough, ranging from minor ailments to serious medical conditions. As a responsible and loving dog parent, I recommend learning the most common causes and what other symptoms to look out for to help you better understand what your dog is experiencing.Kennel Cough (Infectious Tracheobronchitis)This highly contagious respiratory infection often spreads in places where large numbers of dogs congregate, such as boarding facilities, dog parks, and kennels. It’s characterized by a distinctive “honking” cough, which may be accompanied by other cold-like symptoms. While kennel cough will often clear up on its own (much like a human cold), sometimes antibiotics or cough suppressants are necessary. Fortunately, vaccination is an effective preventative measure, especially if you know your dog often frequents high-risk areas.Tracheal CollapseThis occurs when the trachea, or windpipe, weakens. Tracheal collapse most often affects small breeds, but it can happen in any size of dog. The hallmark symptom is a goose-like “honking” couch, which can worsen with excitement or exercise. If you suspect you may be dealing with tracheal collapse, contact your veterinarian. Treatment options include medications, weight management, and, in some cases, surgery.Heart DiseaseThe heart is likely not the first thing that comes to mind when considering the cause of a cough, but coughing can be a significant symptom of heart disease, particularly heart failure. This couch is often worse at night or after exercise and may be accompanied by other signs of heart trouble, like fatigue, weakness, and difficulty breathing. If your dog is diagnosed with heart disease, they will need ongoing management of the underlying heart condition by your veterinarian.Pneumonia Pneumonia, an inflammation of the lungs, can be caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. It is typically associated with a wet, productive cough. Other common symptoms of pneumonia in dogs include:FeverDifficulty breathing or swallowingNasal dischargeRapid heart rateAltered moodChanges in appetiteLethargy or sluggishnessTreatment for pneumonia usually involves antibiotics. Your dog may also require supportive care, addressing some of the symptoms to allow their body to heal. For example, if your dog is struggling with loss of appetite, your vet may recommend an appetite stimulant.Allergies and IrritantsJust like humans, dogs can suffer from environmental allergies and react to inhaled irritants like smoke, dust, and pollen. These allergies and irritants usually trigger a dry, hacking cough. You may also notice other signs your dog is suffering from allergies, such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, ear infections, inflamed skin, and paw licking. Treatment usually involves antibiotics and supportive care.Canine DistemperThis serious and potentially fatal viral illness is thankfully preventable through vaccination. However, if you have a young puppy who hasn’t completed their puppy vaccination schedule, they are at risk. Coughing is one of the most common symptoms, along with fever and neurological signs. If you suspect your dog may have distemper, it is an emergency and requires immediate veterinary care. Treatment is supportive and often intensive.

Are Dogs Ticklish?

Is that a laugh? And is he really enjoying this type of playtime?

How Long Can I Leave My Dog in a Crate?

A high-quality dog crate can be a safe and controlled environment for your dog when you’re out of the house. However, it’s crucial not to leave your dog in the crate for too long, as extended confinement can cause physical and mental stress. The length of time a dog can stay in a crate depends on factors like age, size, health, and temperament. Here’s what you need to know.

Is a Rat or a Mouse the Best Pet for My Family?

Are you thinking of adding a small animal to the family? Congratulations! Rodents and other small, furry friends are often overlooked in a pet industry that focuses on cats and dogs – but they can be amazing companions!Now that you’ve decided to welcome a new pet into the home, it’s time to determine what pet is the right fit for your household. For some, this is easy. If you have fallen in love with a specific pet, you likely already have your mind made up. If you haven’t decided, we’re here to help.Two pets that are often lumped together (mistakenly) are rats and mice. While both are intelligent, social, and surprisingly clean animals, there are some significant differences.Keep reading to learn more about owning a rat or a mouse as a pet, including a comparison of key factors like lifespan, personality, and care requirements. By the end, you’ll have the information needed to confidently choose the perfect pet for your family.Is a Rodent Right for You?Before digging into the details of these two adorable options, the first question you need to consider is whether any rodent is the right pet for you. While dogs and cats are the most popular pets, rodents have been gaining popularity.These pocket-sized pets are generally more affordable to care for and require smaller living spaces, although this could vary depending on which rodent you choose. Many rodents are surprisingly social, allowing you to enjoy that human/animal bond while still making it easy to keep “their space” to a contained area in your home. If you are worried about the struggle of pet fur or muddy paw prints everywhere, that may be a huge win!However, not all aspects of rodent care are considered benefits. For those with young children, handling a rodent may lead to trouble, including injuries to the rodent from being mishandled or to your child if the rodent feels unsafe, causing them to bite.Finding a veterinarian who specializes in exotic animals and can provide your new rodent with the care they require can be challenging. I recommend contacting local veterinarians and veterinary hospitals to make sure that you have someone available in your community who can provide the care your pet may need.Small animals have a shorter lifespan, allowing you to experience the joy of sharing your life with a pet without a long-term commitment. Unfortunately, that does mean dealing with the grief of losing a pet much sooner.Ultimately, the decision of whether a rodent is the right pet for you and your family will depend on your lifestyle, individual circumstances, and personal preferences. If, after reading all this, you still believe that a rodent is the perfect choice, it’s time to consider your options… Rats vs Mice: A Closer Look There are many different rodents to consider when searching for your ideal pet, but two often-confused pets are rats and mice. While these furry friends do have a lot in common, there are also many differences that set them apart. Here are a few essential factors to consider when deciding on the best choice for your household:Average LifespanAs already mentioned, rodents, in general, do have shorter lifespans than the average dog or cat. However, there is also a difference between rats and mice. Most domesticated rats live approximately 2-4 years, but some live considerably longer than twice that. According to the Guinness World Records, the oldest rat (named Rodney) lived to be seven years and four months old. Domesticated mice have a slightly shorter lifespan of approximately 1-3 years. This, too, can vary considerably. Guinness World Records lists the record holder of the world’s oldest mouse as a San Diego mouse named Patrick Stewart, who lived 9 years and 180 days. But this shouldn’t be considered normal, as Patrick Steward lived over 2 years longer than the former world record holder, Fritzy.Ideal HabitatBoth rats and mice can live a long, happy life with a cage as their primary habitat, assuming the cage provides enough space. Many of the cages you will find on pet store shelves are not actually adequate for a rodent’s needs. This includes not only cages for rats and mice but also cages available for rabbits, guinea pigs, and even hamsters. It’s a common problem in the pet industry across all small animals.The exact measurements of the ideal habitat for a mouse or rat will vary slightly from expert to expert. However, a general rule of thumb is that the minimum cage size for a mouse is 18 inches long x 12 inches wide x 12 inches high. For each additional mouse, add ½ square foot to the total floor area. You must also pay close attention to the width of the cage bars, as mice are skilled at slipping through even the smallest spaces.The space required to keep a rat is larger, which may need to be factored into your decision. The recommended minimum cage size for a single rat is 20 inches long x 14 inches wide x 24 inches high. You should add one square food to the floor area for each additional rat.Both species need plenty of tunnels, tubes, branches, and hideaways. They are prey animals, always needing to be alert and stay safe in the wild. While it’s true that no one is hunting your new pet in their cage, you still need to provide them with several hiding spaces to feel safe and secure. These structures also offer much-needed mental enrichment.Rats and mice also need items they can chew on, like mineral blocks or wooden structures, to keep their teeth from becoming overgrown.Many of the cheaper and more commonly used wood shavings for bedding are unsafe for your rodent. Improperly dried pine shavings and cedar expose them to toxic dust and odors that can lead to severe or life-threatening upper respiratory infections. They have very sensitive respiratory systems, making them highly susceptible to issues. Both rats and mice will thrive with an absorbent, chemical-free soft paper bedding like Kaytee Clean & Cozy White Paper Bedding. You can also mix in some aspen shavings to make tunneling easier. The bedding should be at least 6 inches thick across the bottom of their habitat.

Is Holly Poisonous to Dogs?

You might enjoy decking the halls with boughs of holly, but would that be a smart thing to do if you happen to share your home with a dog? The glossy green leaves and bright red berries are a Christmas staple, but unfortunately, holly is not safe for dogs. Holly is considered toxic to dogs, and taking precautions is essential to keep your furry companion safe. Here’s what every dog owner should know about this iconic holiday plant.Why Is Holly Toxic to Dogs?Holly contains saponins — a group of chemicals that are mildly to moderately toxic to dogs. Both the leaves and berries of the holly plant pose a risk if ingested. Additionally, holly berries contain other harmful substances, such as methylxanthines and cyanogens, which can worsen symptoms of poisoning. To complicate matters, holly leaves are spiky, and their sharp edges can irritate a dog’s mouth, throat, and stomach.Symptoms of Holly Poisoning in DogsIf your dog ingests holly, the symptoms can vary depending on their size, health, and how much was consumed. Common signs to watch for include:Vomiting: Your dog may vomit shortly after eating holly, expelling any berries or leaves they ingested.Drooling: Irritation caused by holly’s toxins or prickly leaves can lead to excessive drooling.Diarrhea: Digestive upset is a common response to holly poisoning.Lethargy: A poisoned dog might appear unusually tired or sluggish.Mouth Irritation: Cuts or bleeding in your dog’s mouth can indicate they’ve chewed holly leaves.Loss of Appetite: Gastrointestinal discomfort can discourage your dog from eating.What to Do If Your Dog Eats HollyIf your dog consumes holly, staying calm is crucial. Panic can make it harder to handle the situation effectively. Follow these steps:Remove the Holly: Safely dispose of any remaining holly or place it well out of reach. If your dog is still chewing the plant, gently remove it from their mouth.Assess Symptoms: Observe your dog closely for any of the symptoms mentioned above.Contact Your Vet: Even if symptoms seem mild, consult your veterinarian or call a pet poison control hotline. Provide details about how much holly was consumed, the type of plant, and any symptoms your dog is showing. Do not induce vomiting unless explicitly directed by a vet, as this can sometimes cause additional harm.Encourage Hydration: Offer your dog plenty of fresh water to help flush toxins from their system.Prevention is KeyThe best way to protect your dog from holly poisoning is to avoid using real holly in your holiday decorations. Consider these alternatives and precautions:Opt for Artificial Holly: High-quality artificial holly looks just as festive and is completely pet-safe. Plus, it can be reused year after year. 

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.  

How Often Should You Change Cat Litter?

Caring for your feline friend comes with many responsibilities, and maintaining a clean litter box is among the most crucial aspects of their hygiene. A clean litter box ensures your cat stays happy and healthy while keeping your home fresh and odor-free. However, many cat owners are unsure how often to change their pet's litter. The answer depends on several factors, including the type of litter you use, the number of cats in your home, and your cat's individual preferences. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you manage your cat’s litter box effectively.Why Litter Box Hygiene MattersCats are renowned for their cleanliness, and a dirty litter box can cause significant distress. In some cases, it can even lead to behavioral problems, such as litter box avoidance. This can result in inappropriate elimination around your home, creating additional challenges. Moreover, a poorly maintained litter box can become a breeding ground for bacteria and ammonia buildup, which can be harmful to both your cat and your household.

How Do I Know if My Dog Is Overweight or Underweight?

Most dogs have a hearty appetite and won’t pass up a chance to eat. However, unchecked eating habits can quickly lead to weight issues, including obesity. Conversely, some dogs may be picky eaters or have health conditions that leave them underweight. As a responsible owner, it’s crucial to recognize whether your dog is overweight or underweight and take the necessary steps to maintain a healthy weight. Both conditions can pose serious health risks, such as joint problems, heart disease, or malnutrition. Here’s a detailed guide to help you evaluate and manage your dog’s weight.Signs of an Overweight DogSome dogs are more prone to weight gain due to factors like breed, age, and activity level. If you suspect your dog is overweight, look for these signs:Difficulty Feeling Ribs: Place your hands on either side of your dog’s chest. If you cannot feel their ribs without pressing through a thick layer of fat, your dog may be carrying extra weight.Lack of a Visible Waistline: When viewed from above, a healthy dog should have an inward curve between the ribs and hips. A rounded or barrel-like shape often indicates excess weight.Reduced Stamina: Overweight dogs may struggle with physical activities, tire easily, and pant heavily even after minimal exercise.Signs of an Underweight DogIt’s generally easier to identify if a dog is underweight. Common indicators include:Visible Bones: Protruding ribs, hip bones, and spine are key signs of an underweight dog. While some breeds naturally have a lean frame, excessively visible bones are cause for concern.Lack of Fat and Muscle Mass: Underweight dogs often feel “bony” to the touch and lack muscle tone, giving them a frail appearance.Low Energy Levels: Like overweight dogs, underweight dogs may seem lethargic or disinterested in play and exploration.Keep in mind that certain breeds have naturally slender builds (e.g., sighthounds like Greyhounds), while others may appear stockier (e.g., Bulldogs or Newfoundlands). Understanding your dog’s breed characteristics is essential when assessing their weight.Maintaining a Healthy WeightTo ensure your dog remains at a healthy weight, follow these steps:Regular Weigh-Ins:Invest in a reliable dog scale and weigh your dog periodically to track changes over time.

Is Your Dog Sleeping Too Much? Here Are Some Tricks to Beating Boredom

(photo credit: Elena Lozu / shutterstock.com)Full disclosure: I had always lived with cats. And boy, do they like to sleep. So, when I adopted my two Schnoodles seven years ago, I anticipated a fun surge of energy in my home. I expected them to be alert and moving throughout the house continually. Someone at the door? They’re on it. The fridge door opens? They’re right there to check out the situ. Fast forward, and… not so much. The reality?  I was amazed by how much they liked to snooze (and snore, but that’s another story).Who knew that adult dogs sleep an average of 11 hours a day? Not quite as much as a feline who can clock up to 15 hours of power napping, but pretty dang close.Now, if your dog is creeping north of 11 hours, it could be cause for concern. Issues like diabetes or painful ailments such as arthritis, and even hypothyroidism may need to be ruled out by your veterinarian. But another cause for why your little buddy is sleeping so much could be depression. And that’s something you can do something about. You see, a good mood booster for any dog can be regular exercise and sufficient mental stimulation to keep him well-occupied throughout the day.Let’s talk about that last one. For me, there is one common denominator that will instantly engage a napping dog. Food. And when they have to make an effort to locate it, they’re now intrigued. Add in one more element – they have to work for it – and I’m now ticking that mental stimulation box.I know with my, now trio of pooches, they’re looking for something fun yet relatively easy. It has to appeal to their love of foraging (they all have that Schnauzer hunt drive) as well as their relatively short attention span. Meaning they won’t work for long if a reward is not proffered early into the quest and at regular intervals thereafter.With this in mind, there are a few options out there that don’t take a lot of effort to figure out. Best of all, these mentally stimulating dog toys net your buddy immediate gratification (treats) to get him started.

How Do You Get Rid of Ear Mites in Dogs?

If you’ve ever noticed your dog shaking their head excessively or scratching at their ears like there’s no tomorrow, ear mites could be the culprit. These tiny parasites, scientifically known as Otodectes cynotis, make a home inside the ear canal, feeding on skin debris and causing intense irritation. Left untreated, ear mites can lead to infections and more serious complications - but the good news is they’re completely treatable with the right approach.

New York State Bans Sale of Dogs, Cats, and Rabbits

Starting on December 15, 2024, retail pet stores will no longer be able to sell dogs, cats, and rabbits in the state of New York. Any stores that continue to sell the animals will be doing so illegally, and will be charged a penalty of up to $1,000 for each violation.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Guinea Pig

There’s so much to like about guinea pigs. They’re super cute, they make a range of adorable sounds, and they’re small enough to fit in your hands. But even though you might be tempted to bring one home, there’s a lot to consider before you do.

Grooming Those Hard to Reach Places Just Got Easier

It's a Thing! Pets in China Work in Cafes for Snack Money

Think doggie daycare meets petting zoo and you'll get the picture.

VetShopMax: The Affordable Solution to High-Cost Pet Medications

Why Pay More? Get the Same Pet Meds for Less—No Vet Prescription Needed!Picture this: You’re standing at the vet’s office, holding your happy, tail-wagging pup, when the receptionist hands you the bill. Your heart skips a beat. That tiny box of flea and tick meds costs HOW much?!It’s a story too many pet parents know all too well. Keeping our pets safe from fleas, ticks, and heartworms isn’t optional—but when vet prices keep climbing, it can feel impossible to afford. Skipping treatments isn’t an option, but neither is emptying your wallet every month.That’s why so many pet owners are turning to VetShopMax—an online pet pharmacy that sells the same trusted flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives without the need for a vet prescription and for way less than what clinics charge.

Can You Leash and Harness Train a Rabbit?

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

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 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.