7 Essential Tips for Keeping Your Pets Safe This Hurricane Season

Spring Cleaning Tips for Pet Parents

Spring is a season of renewal, so it’s the perfect time to do some cleaning around the house to freshen things up, get rid of things you no longer need, and make space for new things. But if you share your home with pets, it’s important to take a few steps to ensure their well-being while you do your spring cleaning. Check out the information below to see how spring cleaning could potentially have adverse effects on pets, and what you can do to keep everyone happy.

Lost Family Cat Adopted Out Because of Microchip Error

A microchip can be a lifesaver if a pet ever gets lost; it can alert a rescue to the animal’s rightful owners, and can also help prevent euthanasia if a pet ends up in a shelter that’s overburdened and euthanizes for space. But in the case of one lost kitty, the microchip actually failed, causing her to be adopted out to someone else. Now, there’s a dispute over whether the cat should be returned to her original family.

How Often Should I Clean My Fish Tank?

Keeping your fish tank clean is one of the most important things you can do for the health and happiness of your aquatic pets. A clean tank supports a stable environment, prevents waste buildup, and helps keep your fish active, stress-free, and less prone to disease. But how often should you actually clean your tank? The answer depends on several factors - like tank size, the number and type of fish, and whether it’s a freshwater or saltwater setup. Let’s break it down.Why Cleaning MattersFish naturally produce waste, and uneaten food, plant debris, and other organic matter contribute to rising levels of ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates - substances that can harm your fish if left unchecked. While a good filter helps manage this waste, it can’t do everything alone. That’s where routine cleaning comes in.There are two main types of tank maintenance:Routine maintenance, which keeps things running smoothly week to weekDeep cleaning, which is more thorough but done less frequentlyBoth are essential for keeping the ecosystem balanced and your fish thriving.Weekly Tasks: Your Regular Cleaning RoutineMost tanks benefit from a light cleaning once a week. The key task here is a partial water change - typically about 10% to 25% of the total tank volume. This helps remove harmful buildup while restoring beneficial minerals.During your weekly routine, aim to: Vacuum the gravel to remove uneaten food and wasteReplace the siphoned water with fresh, dechlorinated water at the correct temperatureTest the water for pH, ammonia, nitrites, and nitratesWipe down the glass inside the tank to remove algaeCheck the filter to ensure it’s running smoothlyObserve your fish for any signs of illness or odd behaviorThese small but consistent steps help prevent larger issues down the line.

Why Does My Dog Have Bad Breath?

“Doggy breath” might seem like just another quirky part of living with a pup - but if your dog’s breath has taken a turn for the seriously stinky, it could be telling you more than you think. While the occasional whiff of dog breath is normal, persistent or especially foul odor often points to an underlying issue that deserves attention.So, let’s dig into the most common reasons your dog might have bad breath - and what you can do about it.1. It Often Starts with Dental HygieneJust like with humans, the number one culprit behind bad breath in dogs is poor oral hygiene. When plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, they create the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Over time, this can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease, which not only cause bad breath but also pain, inflammation, and potential tooth loss.In more severe cases, those harmful bacteria can even enter the bloodstream and affect your dog’s heart, kidneys, or liver.What helps:Brush your dog’s teeth regularly using pet-safe toothpaste.Offer dental chews designed to reduce tartar.Schedule professional cleanings with your vet when needed.It might take some getting used to, but building an at-home dental care routine is one of the best things you can do for your dog’s overall health (and breath!).

How to Clean Your House Safely When You Have a Furry Friend

Living with pets brings joy, companionship, and a healthy dose of chaos. Between shedding, paw prints, and the occasional accident, keeping a clean house is important, but so is keeping your pets safe. Many everyday cleaning products contain chemicals that can be harmful to animals, even in small amounts. Understanding what to avoid and how to clean safely can help you create a home that’s both tidy and pet-safe.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

Adding a Degu to the Family? Let's Get You Properly Set Up!

Is Your Cat a Picky Eater? Things to Consider About Their Food

It’s no secret that cats can be picky eaters, and pet food companies have responded by making a variety of foods in a range of textures and flavors to suit every finicky feline’s preferences. If your kitty isn’t eating, here are some of the things to consider about their food to see if you can make some changes that will keep them happy.  

Don’t Wait and See: When Your Hiding Cat Is a Sign of Trouble

Have you ever returned home from a long day at work only to find your cat squeezed into a dusty corner of the closet or peeking out from under the couch, refusing even to come out when they’re called? It’s easy to laugh it off and think, “My cat’s just being a cat.” But is that all that’s happening? While it’s true that cats love a good hiding spot, a cat who is suddenly or persistently hiding is often trying to tell you something important. Their disappearance is more than just enjoying some “me time,” it can be a vital clue that there is something “off” in terms of their physical or emotional well-being. In this post, we’ll explore the different reasons your cat may be hiding, from stress in their home environment to a serious medical issue, so you can determine if your cat’s newest behavior quirk is a normal response to things in their life or a cry for help. Why Cats HideHiding is an instinctual behavior for cats, rooted in their evolutionary history as both predators and prey. A cat might be in a playful mood, hiding to pounce on a toy or an unsuspecting household member. Our cats love sneaking up on our playful pup, Lucifer. They may also seek out a hiding spot for a quiet nap away from the hustle and bustle of a busy family household. This is the normal side of hiding, and it’s a sign that a cat feels secure and comfortable enough to relax in their environment. However, there are also times when your cat’s hiding may be a warning sign of an underlying problem. In these cases, the only way to help your cat feel more comfortable in their home is to first address the cause. Emotional and Behavioral Reasons for Hiding A cat’s hiding can be a coping mechanism or a response to stress, anxiety, or fear. Changes in the home, such as the arrival of a new baby, the introduction of a new pet, or even just the presence of guests visiting, can feel overwhelming. Loud noises, such as fireworks, thunderstorms, or home renovations, can also send a cat running for cover. In these cases, hiding is their way of managing their sensory overload and reclaiming a sense of control over their environment. Hiding as a Medical Red FlagA sudden change in a cat’s behavior, such as hiding when they are usually social, is often a significant red flag. This can signal a serious medical problem requiring a visit to your veterinarian. A cat in pain or discomfort will often retreat to a secluded spot to avoid being touched or to protect a sensitive area. This could be due to anything from a painful tooth to arthritis or an internal injury. Similarly, a sick cat will instinctively hide, a behavior that dates back to their wild ancestors hiding any signs of vulnerability from predators. Contact your veterinarian if your cat is hiding and also showing other symptoms, like: Loss of appetite Changes in litter box habits Lethargy Uncharacteristic aggression when approachedAs cats age, they may also start to hide more due to a decline in their senses or because of conditions like feline cognitive dysfunction ( dementia in cats), which can cause disorientation and confusion. It’s critical to remember that cats are masters of hiding their illnesses, which means you must closely monitor any changes in their behavior. If you are concerned about your cat’s well-being or suspect there could be a medical issue at play, get help as soon as possible. Waiting to see if they “snap out of it” can be dangerous. When to Reach Out to Your Veterinarian It can be hard to know when hiding crosses the line from a simple behavioral quirk to a serious or potentially life-threatening medical concern. While it’s always best to follow your gut, here is a checklist of warning signs that can help you recognize when it’s time to call the vet and put an end to the “wait and see” approach: Duration: If your cat is hiding for more than 24 to 48 hours and won’t even come out for food, water, or to use the litter box, something is wrong. Accompanying Symptoms: Pay close attention if hiding is paired with any other signs of illness or distress. As I already mentioned, this may include changes in appetite or thirst, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or a noticeable change in their usual behavior. Unusual Hiding Spots: A cat who normally hides under the bed but is now found cowering in the back corner of the closet may be trying to tell you something significant. Additional Behavioral Changes: Does your usually friendly, social cat hiss, growl, or swat at you when you approach their hiding spot? This is a serious sign of pain or fear. Physical Signs: Any visible signs of injury, such as limping, a visible wound, or difficulty breathing, coupled with hiding, should be considered an immediate emergency. When you bring your cat to the vet, be prepared to discuss any warning signs or changes in detail. Keeping a journal of your cat’s behavior can help ensure you don’t forget anything important. The vet will likely perform a careful physical exam and ask questions about your cat’s history and any changes you’ve observed. They may recommend diagnostic tests, such as blood work, urinalysis, or X-rays, to get a full picture of what may be happening internally. Ultimately, a vet visit is the only way to get a definitive diagnosis and identify the proper treatment for your cat. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the health and well-being of your best friend!

5 Tips to Stop Your Cat from Scratching Your Furniture

Scratching is a natural and necessary behavior for cats, it helps them stretch their muscles, sharpen their claws, and mark their territory. Unfortunately, this probably means that your couch and dining chairs are frequent targets. Here are five effective tips to protect your furniture without stressing out your feline friend.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Study Reveals The Best Way to Get a Dog's Attention

Whether it’s teaching a new trick or simply guiding them away from something they shouldn’t be chewing, getting our dog’s attention is a fundamental part of daily life as a dog parent. But it’s not always that easy, is it? We’ve all experienced the slight frustration of a dog who seemingly has selective hearing, haven’t we? Well, new research out of the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna might offer us a more effective strategy. A new study in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B has shed light on the most successful way to grab your dog’s attention and direct their focus: a combination of pointing and looking directly at the desired object. This may seem intuitive, directing their gaze through your own body language. After all, dogs are masters of reading body language. However, this study went a step further by tracking the dogs’ gazes with specialized headgear, providing concrete evidence for this recommended two-step approach. The research team, led by Christoph J. Völter, outfitted a total of twenty dogs with cameras to record where their eyes were directed during a treat-finding experiment. This group included eight mixed breeds, four terriers, two Australian shepherds, two poodles, a collie, a flat-coated retriever, a German shepherd, and a Rhodesian Ridgeback. An experimenter would hide a treat in one of two bowls and then use different cues to signal to the dog which bowl held the reward. The cues included pointing, gazing at the bowl, pretending to throw a ball towards it, and combining pointing with gazing. The results were quite interesting! When the experimenter both pointed and stared at the correct bowl, the dogs were significantly more successful at locating the treat. The researchers noted that the dogs’ gaze would typically shift from the experimenter’s face to their hand (the point) and then directly to the bowl containing the treat. This clear sequence suggests that the combined cues effectively guided the dogs’ attention to the intended target. Pointing alone did prompt the dogs to look towards the hand, but it wasn’t as effective in directing their gaze to the specific bowl. Similarly, the pretend ball throw, while often getting the dogs to look in the general direction, didn’t lead to a focused gaze on the treat-containing bowl. Instead, their gaze quickly searched for the invisible ball before giving up and returning to the experimenter. This highlights the power of a clear, directional cue like pointing, especially when reinforced with direct eye contact. “Is it for them more like an imperative directive to go somewhere? Or do they understand it more in a communicative way?” Völter explained when discussing the results of the study. The research team believes more studies are needed on the topic before that question can be definitively answered. What does it mean for us, dog parents? The next time you need to direct your dog’s attention to a specific object, remember the power of combining a clear point with direct eye contact. This scientifically-backed yet straightforward technique could be the key to clearer communication, more effective training, and a stronger bond. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

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.

Let's Trick Out the Ultimate Cat Sanctuary.

(photo credit: beton studio / shutterstock.com)If you could build the ultimate dream space for your feline buddy, what would it look like? We’re not talking about a cat tree near a window. More, a dedicated space that you could trick out with some fun furnishings that turn a basic spare room into a cat pad where she can kick back and relax - in privacy. Now, not all of us have an extra bedroom that isn’t already serving as a home office or guestroom, so maybe it’s not going to be Fluffy’s exclusive space, but still, something that focuses on her needs while doing double-duty when the time comes.Beyond the fun stuff, tips for creating a safe environment for her may include introducing a baby gate that lets kitty through but keeps inquisitive dogs (and toddlers) at bay. Or, an indoor cat flap that allows her to enter and exit at will. Most feline pet parents can also confirm that Venetian blinds or any type of drawstring closure is a no-go because curious kitties can quickly become tangled. I can personally attest to that, having experienced a blind ripped down and carried through to another room by an ensnared kitty. So, I would heartily recommend any of the trendy new cordless blinds sans dangling bits that can cause your feline to become a little too curious!Now that you’ve created a safe space for your cat, let’s talk décor!

Poor Air Quality Impacts the Health of Pets, Too

Experts warn that poor air quality caused by wildfires can have serious effects on animals, so pet parents should be aware of the risks and take steps to protect their pets when air quality drops.  

What is Scent Work for Dogs?

Are you looking for new activities and events to enjoy with your pup? If so, you may want to explore the world of scent work! It’s a fun and engaging activity that allows your dog to tap into their natural abilities. It’s a great opportunity to build your bond and boost confidence through a rewarding game. If you really love it, there are even opportunities to get involved with scent work on a competitive level!In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to get started in scent work today, including a better understanding of what scent work involves, the benefits of this game for your dog, and step-by-step instructions to get started with this activity in your own home. What are you waiting for?What Is Scent Work? To truly appreciate scent work and the benefits it offers for your dog, we first need to understand the basics. This starts with the instrument at its core: a dog’s nose. The Master Tool That Is Your Dog’s Nose Your dog’s nose is more than just an adorable boopable button; it’s a masterpiece of evolution that helps them navigate the world around them. Its power is almost unbelievable! While humans have approximately 5 million scent receptors, our dogs possess 125 million to 300 million, depending on the breed. This means they can experience a world of smells that is far more detailed than anything we can even begin to imagine. They detect odors at concentrations that aren’t even noticeable to us. In addition to the number of scent receptors, the structure of your dog’s nose improves their powerful smelling abilities. When they breathe in, a fold of tissues separates the air into two distinct pathways: one for breathing and one exclusively for those receptors to detect smells. These two pathways allow them to breathe and analyze scents at the same time. They also have a specialized organ called a “vomeronasal organ” (or Jacobson’s organ) at the roof of their mouth, which detects specific scents like pheromones and other chemical signals. When all of this works together, dogs can discriminate and identify individual odors even when they are mixed together with many others. Imagine walking into a busy kitchen filled with the smells of coffee, toast, and bacon. A human nose might just smell “breakfast.” Your dog’s nose, however, can identify the coffee, the specific type of bread, and even differentiate between bacon and sausage. This incredible ability is why scent work is why they are so skilled at detecting specific substances. The Basics of Scent WorkScent work is an activity that leverages this incredible power of smell by turning it into a structured search game. At the heart of scent work is the “target odor.” This is the specific scent that your dog is trained to find. Traditional scent work often focuses on essential oils like birch, anise, or clove, diluted to a specific (and safe to smell) concentration. However, for home-based fun, a target odor can be anything from a high-value treat or specific toy to a unique household item like your car keys. The key is that the dog learns to associate this particular scent with a reward. It’s also important to note that scent doesn’t just sit still; it moves. As air moves through or over a hidden scent source, it can create a “scent cone” or “plume,” a trail of odor that disperses into the surrounding environment. Dogs are masters at finding and navigating these plums, following the scent back to the source. They learn to identify the strongest point of the scent, which leads them directly to the hidden item. An important concept to understand in scent work is the difference between the actual source of the smell (where the target odor or item is located) and contamination (residual scent left behind as the item was moved or handled). Through their training, dogs learn to indicate only at the source, ignoring the weaker contamination, but this precision takes time and practice. At its roots, scent work is a search game. You hide the target odor, and your dog uses their nose to find it. When they do so successfully, they are rewarded. This simple concept is the foundation of all scent work, from casual home activities to competitive trials. The joy for your dog comes from the hunt and the reward. For the handler, the joy comes from watching your dog engage in an activity that is fun and naturally fulfilling. The Benefits of Scent Work for Your Dog Scent work is a great way to keep your dog busy (we all know how important that is, especially if you have a young, active puppy or a high-energy dog at home). But it’s more than that! It impacts their mental, emotional, and even physical well-being, helping to give them the best possible quality of life. Here are some of the benefits it offers: Mental Stimulation and Enrichment Scent work is often described as a “brain game” because it requires your dog to use their mental abilities, including problem-solving, concentration, decision-making, and memory. Unlike physical exercise, which tires the body, scent work is a form of mental enrichment that tires the mind out in a highly satisfying way. In fact, a dog who has spent 15-20 minutes intensely searching for scents will often be as tired, if not more so, than a dog that has had a long walk! Many common behavioral problems people face with their dogs, such as destructive chewing, excessive barking, or digging, can be traced back to boredom and a lack of appropriate outlets for their pent-up mental and physical energy. Scent work gives your dog a constructive and engaging activity to channel their energy into, which goes a long way in preventing these unwanted behaviors.

How to Keep Your Dog Safe from Ticks This Summer

When the sun is shining and the trails are calling, nothing beats outdoor adventures with your pup. But as fun as nature walks, dog park visits, and backyard playtime can be, they also bring a hidden danger: ticks. These tiny parasites latch onto dogs (and humans!) to feed on their blood. They can transmit serious illnesses like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis.Here’s a comprehensive guide to tick prevention and protection every pet parent should follow.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

Beginner-Friendly Reptiles: 5 Low-Maintenance Species You’ll Love

Thinking about diving into the world of reptiles but not sure where to start? Don’t worry, not all scaly pets require excessively complicated setups or exotic diets. In fact, some reptiles are surprisingly low-maintenance and perfect for beginners who are ready to try something a little more… cold-blooded.Here are five beginner-friendly reptiles that are generally easy to care for, fun to observe, and make awesome companions for first-timers.

Research Aims to Uncover the Effects of Small Pets on Human Well-Being

Many articles have been published about the benefits of pets on mental health and overall happiness, but they’re usually focused on the perks of sharing your home with a cat or dog. Well, the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) wants to change that. They announced a grant that will allow researchers at the University of Liverpool to look into the impacts of small animals as pets. Their goal is to find out if small pets have an effect on people’s well-being, too.

From the LA Fires, New Legislation Expedites Pet Rescue in Disasters

Video of distraught pet owner Casey Colvin kicks new bill into full gear.