5 Money-Saving Hacks Every Dog Owner Should Know About

This Smart Home Device Solves Every Pet Parent’s #1 Problem

A smart way to keep eyes (and ears) on your pet—no matter where life takes youIf you've ever tiptoed out the door to avoid the heartbreaking whimpers of your dog, or spent your lunch break wondering if they’re safe, you’re far from alone.Over 40% of dog owners report feeling guilty or anxious about leaving their pets home alone. And for good reason: pets are family.That’s where myQ comes in. This all-in-one smart access and monitoring system is designed with pet parents in mind, offering the perfect balance of convenience, and peace of mind, so you never have to feel isolated from your furry family again.It’s the best access and monitoring solution for pet parents, helping them stay connected to their furry friends from anywhere.

3 Common Pet Risks to Watch Out For This Fall

Fall brings cooler weather, shorter days, and holiday celebrations. For pets, autumn can also mean new challenges that owners should be mindful of. From foods that can be harmful to outdoor hazards and seasonal allergies, here are three risks to keep an eye on this fall.

How to Safely Welcome a Skittish Rescue Cat into Your Home

How to Prepare Your Anxious Dog for Your Vacation

Vacations are fun for us, but they can be hard on our dogs, especially if they get anxious when routines change or you're not around. If your pup tends to get nervous, a little extra planning can make a big difference. By helping your dog feel safe and comfortable before you leave, you’ll make things easier for both of you. Here’s how to get your anxious dog ready for your time away.

What are Sebacious Cysts and Should You Be Worried?

Lumps, bumps, warts, and more... when should you raise the alarm?

Is Catnip Safe for Cats?

Catnip has long been a source of fascination for cat owners. Its ability to induce playful, euphoric, or even bizarre behavior in felines makes it a popular addition to many pet households. But is it actually safe for your cat?Let’s take a look at the benefits and potential concerns surrounding catnip. 

Why Does My Dog Walk the Fence Line?

Protectively patrolling the perimeter or just looking for a lucky break?

Study Shares Quick Trick to Getting Your Dog's Attention

Researchers found the sweet spot that captures your dogs attention and gains the results you're looking for.

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.

How to Keep Your Dog Safe and Happy at the Beach

A trip to the beach with your dog can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors together. But whether it’s a short visit or a full day by the ocean, the beach comes with a few things to watch out for when it comes to your dog’s safety and comfort. Here’s how to make sure your dog stays safe and happy by the shore. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

How Hot is Too Hot for Your Cat?

Summer is officially here, bringing longer days, beautiful sunshine, and that relaxed summer holiday atmosphere that we all look forward to. But while you’re busy enjoying the warmth, your cat may be dealing with a different experience. Unlike humans, cats aren’t efficient at regulating their body temperature, making them highly susceptible to overheating, even in temperatures that you may consider comfortable. As cat parents, it’s absolutely crucial that we understand the risks of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, learn to recognize the subtle warning signs, and be prepared to react appropriately. In this guide, I’ll explain exactly how hot is too hot for cats, provide you with the information necessary to keep your cat safe, and share some practical tips for keeping them cool on even the hottest summer days. After all, we want them to enjoy their summer vacation, too! Understanding How Heat Affects Your Cat The first step in keeping your cat safe is understanding how their body responds to and interacts with heat, especially extreme heat, and why they are so vulnerable to overheating. When the temperatures climb, humans sweat to cool down. Our cats, however, have a harder time regulating their body temperature and staying comfortable. What is Considered Normal Cat Body Temperature? A healthy cat’s normal body temperature ranges between 100.4∘F and 102.5∘F (38∘C and 39.2∘C). This may seem a bit higher than expected because it’s higher than what is considered normal, but their bodies do generally run warmer. If your cat’s temperature rises beyond this range, their body has to work harder to cool it back down. If they are unable to get back to a healthy temperature quickly enough, they could face severe health conditions, such as heat exhaustion and ultimately, heat stroke. How Cats Regulate Temperature (And Why It’s Limited)While cats don’t sweat like people, there are a few natural ways they may try to cool themselves off. However, it’s essential that we recognize these methods of cooling and regulating body temperature are significantly less efficient, leaving them vulnerable to overheating. Panting: Dogs are known to pant heavily when they need to cool down. With cats, panting isn’t as common and usually means a more serious situation – they are highly stressed, in pain, or significantly overheating. If you see your cat panting, it’s a red flag. Sweating: Previously, I said that cats don’t sweat like humans, but they do have a few (very few) sweat glands. These are primarily found on their paw pads. You may occasionally see damp paw prints on a cool surface if your cat is hot, and they can help a tiny bit, but they aren’t effective as a major cooling strategy for the entire body. Grooming/Saliva Evaporation: Cats often groom themselves when they’re feeling overheated. As the saliva evaporates from their fur, it offers an evaporative cooling effect, similar to how sweat evaporating off our skin cools us. Seeking Shade/Cool Surfaces: The most common way a cat will try to cool down is by seeking out a shaded, cool environment. For example, they may try stretching out on a cool tile or hardwood floor. While this helps, it’s often not enough in truly hot temperatures. So, How Hot is Too Hot for Cats? There isn’t a single “magic number” that makes an environment too hot for every cat. Instead, there are many different individual factors that will play a role. However, a general rule of thumb is that temperatures of 80°F (26.7°C) and higher are considered risky for most cats. This is especially true if combined with these risk factors: High Humidity: This makes it harder for evaporative cooling methods (such as panting and saliva evaporation) to work effectively, trapping heat in the body. A 70°F day with high humidity can be more dangerous than an 80°F day with low humidity.Enclosed Spaces: When discussing this topic, we typically refer to the life-threatening risk of leaving a cat in a parked car. Even for “just a minute” with the windows cracked, the temperatures inside can rise quickly turning the vehicle into an oven. But this also applies to unventilated rooms, sunrooms, or carriers left in direct sunlight. Individual Sensitivity: Just like people, some cats are going to be more susceptible to heat than others. This is why it’s so important for cat parent to get to know their cats, their usual behaviors, and their comfort levels. Is Your Cat at High Risk for Heat Exhaustion?While any cat can suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke, there are some that are at a significantly higher risk of overheating. Consider whether your cat fits into any of the following high-risk groups: Age: Very young kittens and senior cats are less efficient at regulating their body temperatures, making them more susceptible to extreme temperatures. Brachycephalic (Flat-Faced) Breeds: Cat breeds with flatter faces, like Persians, Himalayans, and Exotic Shorthairs, are particularly susceptible to overheating. Their facial structure means they have shortened airways, making it more difficult for them to breathe efficiently, which in turn makes it harder for them to cool themselves through panting. Coat Types: A dense coat can offer some insulation against heat. However, long-haired or dense-coated cats can struggle more in high temperatures, especially if their undercoat isn’t regularly groomed out. Activity Level: Overly active or playful cats are at risk of pushing themselves too hard in a hot environment, which can cause their internal temperature to rise. Health Conditions: Cats with underlying health issues, such as heart disease, respiratory problems (like asthma), obesity, or arthritis (which limits their ability to move to cooler spots), are at an increased risk. If your cat falls into any one (or multiple) of these high-risk categories, knowledge is power. Recognizing that they are more vulnerable to overheating is the first step in taking the steps necessary to keep them safe and healthy.

7 Important Things to Consider When Getting a Pet Lizard

Lizards can make fascinating pets. With their unique personalities, vibrant colors, and intriguing behaviors, they’re a step away from the typical dog or cat. But before bringing one home, it’s important to understand what you’re getting into. Let’s take a look at some key things to consider. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Your Dog Will Love This Healthy 3-Ingredient Treat

If you're looking for a quick, healthy way to pamper your dog, homemade treats are the perfect solution. With just three wholesome ingredients, you can create tasty snacks that are free of artificial additives and tailored to your pup’s needs. Here’s a simple recipe that combines nutrition and flavor in every bite.

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.

Why Dogs Eat Poop, According to a Canine Behavior Expert

You may not want to admit it, but your dog has probably eaten poop once or twice. While this type of behavior makes dog owners shudder, it’s shockingly common for our four-legged companions to eat poop. But why would dogs, especially those with food bowls full of delicious kibble, choose to indulge in such a nasty habit? You might be surprised to learn that there are several reasons why some dogs eat poop.Also known as coprophagy or coprophagia, eating fecal matter is a normal behavior for many animals, including dogs. In fact, research has shown that 25% of dogs eat poop regularly and that nearly half of all dogs have tried to eat feces at some point in their lives.  Some wild animals, including foxes and wolves, will eat their puppies’ stools to help keep the den clean and reduce scents that might attract predators. Studies also show that eating fresh feces might minimize the likelihood of intestinal parasites being spread, providing an evolutionary advantage to our dogs’ wild cousins. Like their wild counterparts, domestic dogs also eat their puppies’ poop in the first few weeks of life to keep them clean. This gives puppies a chance to observe and learn this type of behavior. “Puppies are naturally exploratory - and they’ll taste anything,” said Dr Emily Blackwell, lecturer in companion animal behavior and welfare at the University of Bristol. “And feces don’t taste or smell gross to them in the way they might do for us.”As unappealing as it may seem to us, poop still contains many nutrients and can serve as a good food source when times are hard. Experts speculate that Valerie, a miniature dachshund that has survived 529 days in the Australian wilderness did so partly by eating other animal’s poop. Let’s not forget that dogs have different preferences from us when it comes to the taste, smell, and texture of their food. There’s little research about coprophagia in dogs, but so far, it seems that there’s no apparent connection with diet and age. Researchers are looking for links between gut flora, diet, and diseases that may cause dogs to eat poop. An underlying health problem could be the reason why your dog is eating poop. Schedule an appointment with your vet if your pooch has started eating poop all of a sudden. Your vet will run tests to rule out health problems. Poor living conditions that don’t allow the dog to move a lot or explore, like kennels, a lack of mental stimulation, and punishment during potty training have been linked with dogs eating their own poop. Even if there’s no underlying health problem or your pooch doesn’t actually like the taste of poop you might be inadvertently encouraging them to eat poop while trying to discourage that behavior. “Normally, the consequences of this behavior are that owners rush over to any feces during walks, trying to get there first to stop their dog. But this signals to the dog that feces are important to the owner, increasing its value. And that could make the dog ever more determined to reach it before the owner,” explained Blackwell. “In this way, a lot of dogs are actually eating poo because they’ve almost been trained to by their owner. It’s all about how you respond,” she added. While Valerie, the miniature dachshund, may have eaten poop to survive, most poop-eating canines aren’t forced to eat feces to stay alive. The good news is that coprophagia is manageable. Understanding why your dog eats poop - whether it’s the result of a health problem, evolutionary instinct, or poor living conditions - can help you address this behavior with understanding rather than revulsion. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Do Guinea Pigs Eat? Nutrition Tips & Tricks

Bringing a cute little guinea pig into your life is exciting! But a big question often pops up between the adorable antics and cozy cuddles, especially for new guinea pig parents: “What on earth does my new little family member eat?”Even seasoned guinea pig lovers might sometimes wonder if they are providing the absolute best for their furry friends. Because let’s be honest, fueling our piggies with the right foods is key to their overall health, their zest for life, and how long we get to enjoy these sweet beings in our lives.So, get comfortable, grab a cup of coffee (or your drink of choice), and let’s explore the essential building blocks of a happy and healthy guinea pig: from the importance of hay to the daily dose of fresh vegetables, the role of commercial pellets, the necessity of fresh water, and even those special occasional treats.Consider this your go-to guide for navigating the nutritional needs of your beloved guinea pig! The Cornerstone of a Healthy Guinea Pig Diet: Hay When it comes to your guinea pig’s diet, one ingredient stands out above the rest – hay! It’s not just bedding; it’s the foundation of their nutritional well-being and overall health. Think of it like an unsung hero of their daily menu, providing the necessary foundation to keep them happy and healthy. Why is Hay Essential? You may be wondering why hay is so important. After all, it’s a pretty simple solution! Hay is vital for your furry friend for several reasons, spanning many systems in your guinea pig’s cute little body. This includes: Dental Health: Guinea pigs have teeth that continuously grow throughout their lives. The constant chewing action required to munch on hay naturally wears their teeth down, preventing them from becoming overgrown and causing painful dental issues that can make it difficult for them to eat. Digestive Health: Hay is packed with long-strand fiber that their sensitive digestive systems need to function properly. This fiber helps to keep things moving smoothly and prevents serious health problems like gut stasis, a potentially life-threatening condition where the digestive system slows down or stops. Mental Enrichment: Rummaging through a pile of hay to find the tastiest strands keeps your guinea pig occupied and stimulated, which is important for their overall mental well-being. Types of Hay Not all hay is created equal, and different types of hay offer slightly different benefits. Understanding the pros and cons of each option will help you ensure your guinea pig is getting everything they need (and nothing that could cause unnecessary problems): Timothy hay is generally considered the gold standard for adult guinea pigs. It provides a balance of fiber, protein, and calcium, ideal for their needs at this stage of life. Orchard grass hay is another excellent option, often favored by picky eaters due to its softer texture and slightly sweeter taste. It’s also a great alternative for guinea pigs with allergies to Timothy hay. Meadow hay is another good choice, often including a mix of different grasses, providing a bit of variety in texture and taste. Alfalfa hay is much higher in calcium and protein. It’s beneficial for young, growing guinea pigs (under six months old) and pregnant or nursing sows with their higher nutritional demands. Alfalfa should only be offered in limited amounts to adult guinea pigs due to the risk of developing bladder stones due to the high calcium content. Tips for Providing Hay Now that we’re clear about the importance of hay and which hay you should offer to your piggy, let’s address how to offer it correctly. Fresh, clean hay should always be available in their enclosure, and it should be the majority of their diet.  Store it in a dry place to prevent mold and dust, which can cause respiratory problems. While Timothy, orchard, and meadow hay are often staples for a healthy adult guinea pig, offering a variety of these can add enrichment and cater to different preferences. Finally, consider using hay racks, hanging feeder bags, or bin feeders to keep the hay off the ground, preventing it from being soiled or wasted. Fresh Vegetables While hay is the foundation of a healthy diet, fresh vegetables are vitamin-packed additions that bring essential nutrients and hydration. Think of them as a natural daily multivitamin, crucial for keeping your piggy in top shape. Why Feed Your Guinea Pig Vegetables? Fresh vegetables give your guinea pig many key nutrients to keep them healthy and prevent illness. Perhaps the most critical is vitamin C. Unlike many other mammals, guinea pigs cannot produce their own vitamin C. This means they will experience a deficiency if it's unavailable in their diet. This can lead to a serious condition called scurvy, with symptoms including lethargy, a dull and dry coat, loss of appetite, and joint pain. This makes including vitamin C-rich vegetables essential. Beyond vitamins, vegetables also contribute to good hydration. While guinea pigs may drink water from a bottle or water dish, it’s generally not enough to meet their needs. They get a large portion of their daily water intake from the moisture content in their food, primarily from fresh produce. By serving a diverse range of vegetables, you provide your furry friend with many other crucial nutrients, including various vitamins, minerals, and beneficial antioxidants. Top Vegetables for Daily Feeding When it comes to daily staples, certain vegetables stand out for their nutritional benefits. Here are some veggies you should consider including in the rotation: Bell Peppers of all colors (red, yellow, and green) are excellent sources of vitamin C and are generally well-loved by guinea pigs, making them a tasty and healthy snack. Leafy greens such as romaine lettuce, red leaf lettuce, and green leaf lettuce are also good choices, providing vitamins and fiber. However, it’s important to note that iceberg lettuce should be avoided because it offers little nutritional value and can cause gastrointestinal problems. Cilantro and parsley are packed with flavor and nutrients but should only be offered in moderation due to their higher calcium content. Cucumber is a refreshing and hydrating option that should also be given in moderation. It offers high water content but lower nutritional density compared to other vegetables. Vegetables to Limit or Avoid While a wide variety of vegetables is beneficial, some veggies should be offered only in limited quantities due to specific concerns. Here are a few that can be fed, but only sparingly: Spinach and kale are nutritious but are also high in calcium, so they should be given in limited amounts to avoid the risk of bladder stones. Carrots are often enjoyed by guinea pigs but are relatively high in sugar, making them suitable as an occasional treat but not a daily staple. Broccoli and cauliflower can cause gas in guinea pigs. They should be introduced gradually in small quantities while carefully monitoring your piggy for any digestive issues. Additionally, there are some vegetables that you should avoid at all costs. Onions, garlic, leeks, and shallots can all cause severe blood disorders. Raw potatoes contain solanine, a toxic compound. Rhubarb leaves are highly toxic. Similarly, avocado contains persin, a substance that can be harmful to guinea pigs. Tips for Feeding Vegetables To make the most of veggie time, remember that variety is key. You can ensure your guinea pig has a broad range of helpful nutrients by offering a mix of safe vegetables daily. Always practice proper preparation by thoroughly washing all vegetables to remove any pesticides or dirt before cutting them into manageable, bite-sized pieces to prevent choking. When introducing new vegetables, do so slowly and in small amounts. Carefully monitor your piggy for any signs of discomfort or digestive problems. It’s also important to remove uneaten portions from their enclosure to prevent spoilage and keep their environment clean. A daily dose of fresh, safe vegetables is a key piece of the puzzle when working to provide your guinea pig with the vibrant and healthy life they deserve.

Working from Home? Electronic Pet Toys Are Your New Best Friend.

(photo credit: Elena Yakimova / shutterstock.com)Like many of us who work from home, the call of the wild (our pets) is never far away. Whether it’s an urgent potty break, a quick stroll around the block, a morning snack, responding to a perceived emergency or just a little snuggle, they sure can eat into our productivity.Now, we all know that nothing beats one-on-one time with the fur kids but sometimes duty calls and we just can’t drop everything to be available. Which leads to… wouldn’t we all love to find a way to keep the little guy entertained and busy doing anything other than scratching at the office door or trying to climb onto our lap while we’re on a Zoom call? C’mon, be honest.The good news is that there is relief in sight and it comes in the form of the wide range of electronic toys now available to engage your pet in something other than you. They’re easy to activate, long-lasting and all you have to do is fire them up and let your cat or dog do the rest.

Rare Video of a Tuckered Out Border Collie Captures Hearts

TikTok video captures the moment exhausted Border Collie, Storm, nods off after lengthy hike. An absolute rarity for this breed!