7 Toy Dog Breeds That Stay Tiny and Adorable

Super Bowl LIX Shares the Field with Puppy Bowl XXI

Everyone wins as rescue dogs showcase their unique abilities.

What Type of Exercise is Best for Senior Dogs?

Keeping senior dogs active is essential for their overall health and well-being. Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, supports joint function, and provides mental stimulation, all of which can improve their quality of life. However, as dogs age, their energy levels, mobility, and joint health change, requiring adjustments to their exercise routine. Choosing low-impact activities tailored to their needs can keep them comfortable while reducing the risk of injury. Here’s how to keep an older dog moving safely and effectively.Walking: A Gentle Yet Effective WorkoutWalking is one of the best exercises for senior dogs, providing cardiovascular benefits, joint support, and mental enrichment. To ensure safety and comfort:Keep walks shorter and slower than in their younger years, adjusting based on their endurance.Opt for soft surfaces like grass or dirt trails instead of hard pavement to reduce joint strain.Watch for signs of fatigue, such as slowing down, heavy panting, or limping, and allow rest breaks as needed.Always carry fresh water to keep your dog hydrated, especially in warm weather.

How Often Should I Feed My Cat?

Feeding your cat is one of the most basic responsibilities as a cat parent, but it’s more than just opening a can or pouring some kibble into a bowl. Your cat’s food is the fuel that powers them through their lives with you.Understanding their nutritional needs and establishing an effective feeding schedule is a key consideration for their overall health and well-being. This includes providing the right amount of food at the right time. But there isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution to mealtime. Instead, you’ll need to figure out how to meet your cat’s unique needs.In this article, I’m going to share the most important factors to consider when deciding how often and how much to feed your cat, signs your cat needs a change, and tips for establishing (and sticking to) a feeding schedule that suits both you and your cat.General Feeding Guidelines While there is no universal rule for feeding, there are guidelines that can serve as a starting point for deciding on the best plan for your cat. These are general guidelines based on the average healthy cat. However, they shouldn’t be taken as set in stone. The general guidelines, as set out by most experts (including VCA Animal Hospitals), are: Kittens 8 weeks – 6 months old: Feed approximately 5 meals/day to accommodate their tiny growing stomachsKittens 6 months old and adults: Can be fed larger meals and reduced to as few as 2 meals/day, no longer than 12 hours apartKittens should be transitioned to adult cat food at approximately 8-10 months old Of course, you will need to adjust your cat’s feeding routine based on several factors, ranging from their overall health to your lifestyle. If you’re unsure what the right approach is for your cat, I recommend speaking with your veterinarian or a pet nutritionist. Factors That Affect How Much to Feed Your Cat I have mentioned the many factors that can impact the right amount and frequency when feeding your cat. These factors cover many aspects of your cat’s life, including their health, age, lifestyle, and more. Here are the factors I consider when feeding my cats: Age There are stages in a cat’s life where they will naturally need a higher or lower calorie intake. Kittens, while growing, need the calories necessary to support their growing bodies. However, if you continue to feed that same amount as an adult cat, it can lead to weight gain and possibly obesity ( an ongoing problem in the US). At the same time, as a cat moves into their senior years, their body starts to slow down. At this stage, you need to adjust their nutrition to better suit their changing needs. Size/Breed Some cat breeds will naturally grow larger than others, requiring more calories to support their size. The best-known large cat breeds are the Maine Coon and the Norwegian Forest Cat. Of course, their size may be impacted if your cat is a mixed breed. I have a Maine Coon mix who is less than 7 lbs because she wasn’t blessed with the Maine Coon size.Weight You will need to adjust your cat’s meal depending on their current weight in relation to what is considered healthy. If your cat is overweight, you may need to cut back on how much or how often they are fed to support their weight loss. On the other hand (or paw) if your cat is underweight, you may need to strategically increase their calorie intake by feeding more each meal or feeding them more frequently. Activity Level Do you have a high-energy cat? Breeds like the Bengal are well-known for their playful and adventurous nature. Trying to fuel a higher-energy cat means that you will need to adjust their diet accordingly. However, if your cat is more laid-back and relaxed, feeding them more than necessary can cause them to gain weight. Health Conditions Anytime someone offers general guidelines for best feeding a pet or meeting their exercise needs, these guidelines are based on an average healthy pet. However, there are many health conditions that could impact your cat’s dietary needs. Conditions affecting how your cat absorbs nutrients from their diet may require a cat to eat more to meet their basic nutritional needs. Some health issues will also cause your cat to gain weight easier, meaning you need to restrict their diet. Or they may have specific needs related to exactly what you’re feeding or how much they can eat at any given time. When it comes to health-specific requirements, it’s best to speak with your cat’s veterinarian. They are familiar with your cat’s health history and can make recommendations that are best suited to keep them healthy and happy. Food Type Do you feed you cat wet food or dry food? Some foods are more calorie-dense than others, which can impact how often your cat needs to eat. Wet foods generally have a higher moisture content, making them less-calorie dense. A smaller portion of these foods can make your cat feel full. If your cat eats a diet primarily of kibble, they often need to eat smaller amounts to achieve the same level of calories and nutrition.  Your Schedule Your cat’s health and well-being should be the primary concern when deciding on their feeding schedule, but I would be lying if I said that your schedule doesn’t also play into your decision. For example, if you have a hectic work schedule, it may be harder to accommodate multiple smaller meals. There are tools that you can use to help overcome these challenges. Many cat parents use automatic feeders like the Cat Mate C300 Automatic Digital Pet Feeder to offer meals on time, even when they are stuck at the office.

HotelPlanner Goes Pet-Friendly with Acquisition of PetsWelcome.com

Are you on the search for a pet-friendly hotel for your next getaway? If so, you’re in luck! The popular hotel booking platform HotelPlanner has made an exciting move into the pet travel space with their recent acquisition of PetsWelcome.com. PetsWelcome.com was first founded in 1997 by Chris Kingsley and Fred Grayson. As passionate pet parents, the two were dedicated to creating a safe space where travelers could find out about hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, inns, and other accommodations that not only were highly rated but also happily welcomed our furry travel companions. “This acquisition allows us to better serve the millions of pet owners who consider their pets part of the family and want them by their side during travel,” explained Bruce Rosenberg, Global President at HotelPlanner. “Together, we will build on the strong foundation that PetsWelcome.com has created and further expand our offerings for pet-friendly travel.” Like other hotel sites, you can search the directory on PetsWelcome.com for accommodations in a specific city or state. Interested in international travel? While the directory is primarily US-focused, it also includes pet-friendly businesses in Canada, Mexico, the Bahamas, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. After searching your destination, you can narrow your options with pet-focused filters like pet type (cat or dog), pet weight limits, and pet fees. Going a step further in your planning, the website also lists other pet-friendly businesses, including: Restaurants & Cafes BarsDog Parks BeachesNational, State & Local Parks Wineries Pet Stores & RetailAre you looking for inspiration on where to go or when to travel? Why not consult their pet-friendly event directory to find out if there’s something interesting you would like to attend? The website is truly a “one-stop shop” for planning pet-friendly adventures. “PetsWelcome.com has set the standard for pet-friendly travel resources, and we’re excited to leverage their legacy in creating exceptional experiences for pet owners,” stated Joseph Blakeley, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at HotelPlanner. “This partnership reflects our shared vision of a world where pets are not just welcomed but celebrated in travel.” In the coming weeks and months, you can expect to see PetWelcome.com’s directory integrated into the HotelPlaner platform. The company assures travelers this will allow for a seamless booking experience for those planning a trip with their cat or dog and looking for the best pet-friendly hotel for their stay.This is just one of many exciting developments in the pet-friendly travel space. In November, Expedia Cruise of West Orlando and Cruise Tails announced their plans for the first pet-friendly cruise. They will welcome up to 250 dogs on their inaugural cruise. At the same time, ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft now offer pet rides, connecting pet parents with pet-friendly drivers. As a travel lover who enjoys nothing more than including my pets in my adventures, I’m excited to see where this shift in the travel industry will take us! Of course, it’s also going to depend on us… If you are traveling with your pet, do so responsibly. Always keep your pets under your control and clean up behind them. If businesses in the pet industry see responsible pet parents enjoying these opportunities, it will encourage them to continue expanding their offerings in the future. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Environmental Enrichment for Pet Birds

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

Representatives Propose Law to Ban Sale of Pets in Connecticut

New York state already enacted a law that bans the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in pet stores, and now a similar law has been proposed in Connecticut.

Daring Rescue of Dog from Freezing Water Highlights Major Winter Risk

We all know the love and joy our pups bring into our lives. But with that joy comes the responsibility of keeping them safe, especially during the harsh winter months. A recent viral video out of Vermont is a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking in many of the most beautiful winter wonderland landscapes.Imagine this: a man, Chris McRitchie, and his family are simply going through a drive-thru when his son looks over and spots a dog struggling in the freezing waters of the Winooski River. Being animal lovers themselves, they knew they had to act fast.“It was like one of those moments everyone probably has in their life like you’re going to make a decision,” MacRitchie described. “I felt I was obligated to at least try to fetch this dog out of the river, as I have two dogs myself, and I would hope someone would do that for them if they were in that spot.”Without hesitation, Chris jumped into the frigid water, braving the bitterly cold conditions, to pull the distressed dog to safety. The whole rescue was caught on video, which has since gone viral, and for good reason!“The only real stress I had about it wasn’t getting in the cold water. It was the depth. I did not know if it was 20 feet deep or it was 2 feet deep,” explained MacRitchie. “When I broke through, and I got my feet, and it was like waist-high, I was actually relieved by that. In my mind, during the moment, I thought, ‘OK, this isn’t that bad. Yeah, it’s cold, but I feel this is a very doable situation.’”

How Much Exercise Does a Labradoodle Need?

A delightful crossbreed of charming Labrador Retrievers and elegant Poodles, Labradoodles combine the best traits of both breeds: intelligence, a friendly nature, hypoallergenic coats, and a boundless love for fun. These qualities make Labradoodles beloved companions, but their high energy levels and playful demeanor mean they need plenty of exercise to thrive. Here’s what every would-be Labradoodle owner should know about meeting their furry friend’s activity needs before adopting one.How Much Exercise Does a Labradoodle Need?Labradoodles are active dogs that require daily physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. On average, adult Labradoodles benefit from 60 to 90 minutes of exercise per day, divided between activities that challenge both their bodies and minds.Physical Exercise: Activities like running, playing fetch, or agility courses are excellent ways to burn off their extra energy.Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing gadgets, and obedience training sessions help keep their sharp minds engaged.

Are We There Yet? Keeping Your Pup Happy in the Back Seat is Easy!

HRH Camilla Says Goodbye to Beloved Pet, Beth

Feisty Jack Russell terrier hands up her crown after 13 years of royal service.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies triggered by environmental factors such as pollen, mold, and dust mites. These allergies, also known as atopic dermatitis, often flare up during specific times of the year, causing discomfort and irritation. Recognizing the symptoms early can help pet owners manage their dog’s condition and improve their quality of life.Common Symptoms of Seasonal AllergiesSeasonal allergies primarily affect a dog’s skin, but they can also impact the respiratory system and digestive tract. Here are some key symptoms to watch for:Excessive Itching and Scratching: One of the most noticeable signs of allergies is persistent itching. Dogs may scratch, bite, or lick themselves, especially around their paws, ears, belly, and armpits.Red, Inflamed Skin: Allergic reactions can lead to skin irritation, causing redness, rashes, or hot spots that may worsen if left untreated.Ear Infections: Dogs with seasonal allergies are prone to ear infections, which present as head shaking, ear scratching, and a foul odor coming from the ears.Watery Eyes and Nasal Discharge: Allergies can cause runny eyes and sneezing, similar to hay fever in humans.Paw Chewing and Licking: Many allergic dogs obsessively chew or lick their paws, leading to irritation and even secondary infections.Hair Loss: Constant scratching and licking can result in thinning fur or bald patches, particularly in areas where the dog frequently rubs or bites.Respiratory Issues: Although less common, some dogs may develop coughing, wheezing, or labored breathing due to airborne allergens.Digestive Upset: While food allergies are more commonly linked to gastrointestinal issues, some dogs with seasonal allergies may experience occasional vomiting or diarrhea.When to See a VeterinarianIf your dog exhibits any of these symptoms for more than a few days, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. Allergies can often be mistaken for other conditions like fungal infections, parasites, or bacterial dermatitis. A vet can help determine whether seasonal allergies are the cause and recommend appropriate treatments.Managing Seasonal Allergies in DogsWhile seasonal allergies cannot be cured, they can be managed effectively with the right approach:

Happy Ending as Cat Rescued From Eaton Fire Reunited With Family

During times of tragedy, sometimes we find the most heartwarming stories of hope and resilience. An example of this is the story of Carrot Cake, a beloved family cat whose story will bring a smile to your face and a tear to your eye. By this point, you have likely heard about the devastating Eaton Fire. The fire destroyed over 9,000 buildings and resulted in 17 lives lost, making it one of the most destructive fires in California’s history. Alongside this heartbreaking loss of homes and belongings, many pet parents faced the agonizing uncertainty of whether their furry family members had survived. Imagine the fear and uncertainty of having to evacuate your home, not knowing if you’d ever see your pet again. This was the sad reality for many. While the ideal situation involves evacuating with your best friend, situations can sometimes prevent that from becoming a reality – like a pet who has hidden and cannot be found. That’s exactly what happened to Stephen and his family when the Eaton Fire quickly approached their Altadena home. They had to leave, and sadly, despite their best efforts to locate him, Carrot Cake was nowhere to be found. When they were finally able to return, their home was gone. “[We] came back the following morning, [and] my house was cinders. I mean, my whole house was gone. I lost everything,” Stephen shared in a video interview. Nine days after the fire started, first responders made an incredible discovery. In a burnt-out area of Altadena, they discovered Carrot Cake. He had suffered burns to his paws and singed fur, but he was alive. The miracle cat was taken to the Pasadena Humane Society, where the heartwarming magic began. Stephen never gave up hope. “I knew he was a fighter. I thought maybe he had survived. It’s not that surprising to me. If any cat was going to survive, it was going to be this one,” he said. And he was right. Thanks to Carrot Cake being microchipped, shelter workers were able to contact Stephen and share the great news. The brave fighter was going to be reunited with his family. The reunion, captured on video, was incredibly emotional. Stephen was understandably overcome with joy and relief, exclaiming, “I just can’t believe it. I can’t believe they found him. I never thought I’d see him again,” tearfully petting Carrot Cake after seeing him safe and sound in a carrier.

4 Hairless Cat Breeds

Although you might be familiar with the Sphynx cat, there are other hairless breeds that are just as intriguing and worth checking out if you want to add a rare hairless kitty to your household. Here are four hairless cat breeds and some of their distinctive features.   

Here's Why Your Cat Needs a Cozy Cat Cave!

(photo credit: Shelby Sears / shutterstock.com)For those of us who share space with a feline, we already know that the next best thing to a sprinkle of fresh catnip is a basic cardboard box. I mean, no sooner have I unpacked my Amazon delivery than one of my two cats has claimed the empty container as their own. And yes, I’m an enabler because that box will sit on my living room floor for a couple of weeks before I sigh, break it down and relegate it to the recycling bin. Truly, that one simple cardboard box seems to hold their interest longer than any fluffy, furry, feathered toy I could purchase.Now, there is a science behind this and it all boils down to their deeply rooted predatory instincts. You’ve undoubtedly noticed your pet watching, waiting, then sneaking up on a toy before pouncing and carting it around in its mouth like a hard-won trophy. That’s because a cat’s primary style of hunting is just that - to quietly lay in wait before going in for the kill. And what better way to do that, than tucked under the flaps of a decently sized cardboard box in the middle of a room?There’s more though, because your cat is also highly cognizant of being vulnerable to larger predators. While the inside of your home is clearly safe from coyotes, wolves, and other carnivores who might make quick work of your little Fifi, the instinct to be safely hidden, is strong - particularly given her propensity to sleep/snooze/nap for up to 16 hours a day. Hmm… maybe that’s where the expression “sleeping with one eye open” comes from.This all leads to why enclosed cat caves are such a great option for your feline. Not only do they allow her to observe the world going by while hidden (we can pretend), but they’re a cozy, warm space (important for cats), and she gets to choose who, what when, and where her next victim will be (that element of surprise our cats love).

Poll Finds That Pets Provide Mental Health Benefits

The American Psychiatric Association conducted their Healthy Minds Monthly Poll in 2024 and found that pets provide mental health benefits. The results were also similar to those of the previous year’s poll.

It's Valentine's Day! And What Your Pet Wants is a Great Massage.

(photo credit: Javeir Brusch / shutterstock.com)Forget those boring treats, ho-hum toys, and expected cuddles next month. What your good buddy really wants for Valentine’s Day is a great massage and he’s counting on you to come through - because you always do.Now, just like with humans, massage can be therapeutic and a great way to relieve the stress and tension your pooch has been carrying around lately. It’s also a perfect opportunity to bond with your dog, improve his range of motion, and let you know if he has any tender spots you may want to keep an eye on.Ready to push the boat out this year? Try adding calming music or aromatherapy – both are special touches that any dog will appreciate. But before you go all Zen, it’s important that you’re working with the right equipment for your particular pooch. Is he cool with sound or vibration? Does he enjoy his back being rubbed but not so much his head and neck? There’s a massage tool for every dog type and you’ll be glad to learn you don’t need to break the bank or invest in formal training to deliver that relaxing rub-down your best buddy deserves. In fact, it’s almost guaranteed that he’ll enjoy this one-on-one time so much, he’ll be back again and again and again…

Why Is My Cat Avoiding the Litter Box?

Cats are known for their strong instinct for cleanliness, and most will use a litter box without issue. So, when your feline companion suddenly starts avoiding it, this can be a sign of an underlying problem. The reasons can range from medical conditions to environmental stressors, and identifying the cause is crucial for resolving the issue. Here are some of the most common reasons why your cat is avoiding the litter box.#1 Medical IssuesOne of the first things to consider is a medical condition. Cats experiencing pain or discomfort while urinating may associate the litter box with that discomfort and avoid it altogether. Common health issues that can lead to litter box avoidance include:Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) – Can cause pain, frequent urination, and accidents outside the box.Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) – Often leads to straining, frequent attempts to urinate, and licking of the genital area.Bladder Stones or Kidney Disease – May cause increased urination or discomfort.Diabetes – Can result in excessive thirst and urination, sometimes overwhelming the litter box.If your cat is exhibiting signs of discomfort, straining, or unusual urination patterns, a vet visit is essential to rule out these conditions.#2 Hygiene and Litter Box MaintenanceCats are fastidious creatures, and a dirty litter box can be a major deterrent. If the box isn’t cleaned regularly, your cat may seek alternative places to relieve itself. To maintain a clean and inviting space:Scoop the litter box daily to remove waste.Perform a full clean weekly, replacing old litter with fresh, unscented litter.Use an appropriately sized litter box—cats generally prefer a box at least 1.5 times their body length.Place the box in a quiet, low-traffic area where your cat feels safe.

Should I Give My Dog Collagen?

Collagen is an essential protein that plays a vital role in maintaining healthy joints, skin, and overall well-being. While humans commonly supplement with collagen, many pet owners wonder if it can benefit their dogs as well. As dogs age, their natural collagen production declines, which can lead to joint stiffness, reduced mobility, and skin issues. The short answer is yes - collagen can be a beneficial addition to your dog’s diet. However, there are important considerations to keep in mind before introducing it.What Is Collagen and Why Is It Important?Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, forming the structural framework of connective tissues, including skin, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. It provides elasticity and strength, helping maintain overall physical health. In dogs, collagen contributes to joint flexibility, skin hydration, digestive health, and even the integrity of nails and teeth.As dogs age, their collagen levels decline, resulting in common aging issues such as stiff joints, dull coats, and brittle nails. Environmental factors such as diet, activity level, and exposure to toxins can further reduce collagen production, making supplementation a viable solution for many pet owners.Benefits of Collagen for DogsCollagen provides several health benefits for dogs, much like it does for humans:Joint Health and Mobility: Collagen is a key component of cartilage, the tissue that cushions joints. Older dogs or those with arthritis may benefit from collagen supplements, as they help maintain cartilage strength and reduce inflammation, improving mobility. Active dogs or working breeds may also benefit from collagen to support joint health and prevent premature wear and tear.Skin and Coat Health: Collagen plays a major role in maintaining skin elasticity and hydration. If your dog has dry, flaky skin or a dull coat, collagen may help restore moisture and shine, and it can support healing in dogs with skin conditions. Regular collagen intake can also reduce shedding and improve overall coat texture.Digestive Support: Collagen contains amino acids that strengthen the gut lining. This can be beneficial for dogs with digestive issues such as leaky gut syndrome or food sensitivities by improving nutrient absorption and reducing inflammation. A strong gut lining helps protect against harmful bacteria and supports a balanced digestive system.Nail and Dental Health: Collagen also supports stronger nails and teeth, both of which are crucial for a dog’s overall health and well-being. Brittle nails can lead to painful cracks, and collagen helps maintain their strength and resilience.Weight Management and Muscle Health: Since collagen is a protein, it supports lean muscle mass and overall metabolism. Dogs recovering from injuries or those with muscle loss due to aging may benefit from collagen supplementation as part of a balanced diet.How to Give Collagen to Your DogThere are several ways to add collagen to your dog’s diet:Collagen Supplements: Many pet stores sell collagen in powder, chew, or capsule form, specially formulated for dogs. These are convenient and easy to mix into food or offer as treats.