America Humane Names Their 2024 Hero Dog of 2024!

by Mary Simpson

Published: November 28th, 2024

Gentle Bo is not the breed you'd typically associate with a first responder.

(photo credit: Glikiri / shutterstock.com)

We’ve heard the expression that not all heroes wear capes. Some are just average citizens who boldly step up to the plate when the need arises. But then there are those extra special heroes. The ones who wear collars, love to have their head scratched and are prone to sneaking a treat or two when no one’s looking. Yes, we’re talking canine heroes and this year, the winner of the American Humane’s 2024 Hero Dog award is described as a gentle giant who broke the mould when it came to police work.

Now, before we share how this pooch is so unique, it helps to know that these awards are part of a nationwide competition that begins in April of each year when solicitation for nominations is sent out. Last year’s winner was a Great Dane named Maverick, who works with the United Service Organizations (USO) to help support troops and their family members.

Yes, the competition is stiff and each year, submissions for each of five categories are received. They include law enforcement, military, service animals (guide and hearing), therapy dogs and first responder dogs. And for 2024, they added a sixth category: hero shelter dog.

Judges were tasked with sifting through hundreds of entries to single out that one special dog worthy of the title: America’s top dog!

Consider Niki, a five-year-old Belgian Malinois from Seattle who has logged more than 4,000 hours working with the U.S. Coast Guard to help detect explosive devices.

Then there’s Arizona-based Golden Retriever Sampson, who, over the past 10 years, has learned more than 245 commands to assist his brain-injured companion better.

And Californian Dayo, a Rhodesian Ridgeback who devotes his time to bringing love and joy at the George Mark Children’s House, Camp Erin, and Children’s Hospital.

Now, with the Top Dog winner, Bo, you have an 18-month-old first responder out of North Carolina who has been working with the Gastonia Police Department since he was just eight months old. Unlike dogs typically chosen to work in this field, Bo isn’t a German Shepherd, Doberman Pinscher, or Belgian Malinois. He’s a Bloodhound. And that’s what makes him unique. You see, this breed is renowned for being easily spooked and not necessarily suited to the rigours of this type of intense environment. Yes, his handlers confirm this gentle boy is easily distressed around fireworks.

But not only is Bo highly effective at his job – he’s tracked down a missing child with autism, and found a young kidnapping victim as well as numerous seniors who have wandered off – his super gentle disposition brings instant comfort to those he assists.

For the night of the big reveal, Bo and the other five finalists were all treated to a Gala event in Palm Beach, Florida where they got to strut their stuff down the red carpet. I’m assuming treats were in order!!

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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Bo the Bloodhound Wins American Humane Hero Dog Award

The American Humane Hero Dog Award was given to a very special Bloodhound named Bo. He works as a Police K9 with the Gastonia Police Department in North Carolina, and has been doing so since 2023.

Meet Maverick, the Winner of the 2023 American Humane Hero Dog Award

A six-year-old European Blue Great Dane was singled out from hundreds of other dogs and crowned the 2023 American Humane Hero Dog. Maverick’s job as a therapy dog is to support military members and their families from across the country.Maverick has an extraordinary ability to provide comfort to those who need it with a simple touch of his paw. “A sign of a good therapy dog is a dog that always wants to touch you,” explained Marverick’s owner, Kelly Brownfield, from Saint Robert, Missouri. “He just has a sense of knowing what people need.”Brownfield, who works as a manager at the Fort Leonard Wood United Service Organization, told Fox News that Maverick was born for a purpose. “Maverick’s superpower is his ability to calm people with a touch of his paw, giving them strength to move forward,” she said.This gentle giant supports service members after unexpected deaths in their units, escorts children to military funerals of their parents, and helps service men and women cope with trauma. Each week, Maveric spends time with students at school, offering support to children who practice their reading skills.Tipping the scales at 150 pounds, Maverick can initially seem intimidating, but “he is literally a gentle giant,” said Brownfield. “His whole aura about him is calming.”“He is the perfect size for everything that we do. He is literally their rock; they can lean on him, and he is there for them,” his owner added. “The one thing about this breed is that they have a heart to match.”Each year, people around the country nominate hundreds of dogs in five categories - law enforcement and first responder dogs; service and guide or hearing dogs; therapy dogs; military dogs; and emerging hero and shelter dogs - for American Humane’s Hero Dog Award.Five semi-finalists, in each of the five categories, were chosen from hundreds of dogs. A competitive public vote has cut the list to only five four-legged finalists - one presenting each category. Maverick, who was competing against service dog Moxie, Coast Guard K-9 Buda, police dog Poppy, and emerging hero Raina, was crowned by the panel of judges as the winner. “We are so excited to name Maverick as the American Humane’s 2023 Hero Dog, a distinction that is well deserved for him and his owner Kelly,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane. “The duo has worked tirelessly to bring comfort and solace to our nation’s military heroes through the United Service Organization (USO), all while they both were facing their internal beatles against cancer. It’s these types of incredible stories about sacrifice, perseverance, and compassion that this award aims to spotlight.”Maverick has also offered emotional support to his owner Kelly, who has been battling cancer for the past six years. “I truly believe he knew before anyone else knew,” said Brownfield, adding that Maverick was particularly clingy, touchy, and protective in the months leading up to her diagnosis. “To have him there, especially on hard days has been just an amazing support.”The six-year-old gentle giant also faced a cancer diagnosis last year but is now cancer-free thanks to a successful surgical procedure. Although Maverick spends most of his time in Missouri, he and his owner sometimes travel around the country for work. Together, he and Brownfield have completed hundreds of special mission requests over the years.Having a therapy dog around “can help change lives,” said Brownfield. “He senses the needs of every person.”Maverick and the four other finalists will be honored at the 13th annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards in Palm Beach, Florida. The award show will air on Thanksgiving Day and November 26 on A&E.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Pitbull Named Top “American Hero Dog” At The 2013 American Humane

Elle the therapy dog teaches children about dog safety, reading, and overcoming prejudice Each year, the American Humane Association honors American Hero Dogs, and this year’s winner is a Pitbull named Elle. She’s a therapy dog that travels around the country, teaching children about dog safety, reading, and overcoming prejudice and stereotypes. And as a Pitbull, Elle has first-hand experience about overcoming stereotypes. Pitbulls suffer a stigma in society, and being named this year’s “American Hero Dog” at the 2013 American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards will go a long way with helping spread her message of compassion and awareness. Elle and her human companion, Leah Brewer, teach dog safety (more than 2 million children are bitten by dogs each year) and help people overcome their fear of dogs. Part of her mission is to educate families on how to be responsible pet parents and spread positive awareness about dog breeds that are misunderstood. She’s even started a reading program called “Tail Wagging Tales,” that helps children learn to love books and improve their reading skills. Everywhere she goes, Elle makes friends – she’s a well-known figure not only at schools, but also at retirement homes. Not only does Elle receive kudos as an American Hero Dog, her charity partner, Hand in Paw, will also receive $6,500 in financial support from the Hero Dog Awards. The awards were presented October 5 at a star-studded gala at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles. But don’t worry if you couldn’t make it – the awards ceremony was taped and will be broadcast nationally on Hallmark Channel on October 30 at 8 pm/7 Central. The 90-minute program will air as part of Hallmark Channel’s Pet Project, the network’s cross-platform advocacy campaign designed to celebrate the joy and enrichment animals bring to our lives. Just a few of the celebs that attended the event were Joey Lawrence, Betty White, Jennifer Coolidge, Esai Morales, Ryan O’Neal, Naomi Judd, Pauley Perrette and Lisa Vanderpump. Congratulations Elle and keep up the good work!

We Have the Finalists of the 2017 American Humane Hero Dog Awards!

These brave dogs have been voted as this year’s doggy heroes for these prestigious awards. Now’s your chance to pick the overall 2017 winner! More than half a million have voted and we’ve now got the finalists list for the top Hero Dogs of America! Already they’re winners as they have secured a prize fund of $2,500 dollars for their designated charity. The overall winner will receive a further $5,000 dollars for charity and, of course, the accolade of being the top American Hero Dog! Without further ado, let’s meet the finalists from each category: In the Law Enforcement / Arson Dogs category we have Ice from Olympia, WA. Ice was stabbed twice with a knife while chasing a suspect during a raid on an illegal marijuana plantation. Despite his wounds he refused to let the suspect go. Poor Ice was badly hurt; officers had to carry him to an open area where he was airlifted to the animal hospital. Thankfully, surgery was successful and Ice has made a great recovery. He’s even back on duty serving his country. Related: Former Rescue Ruger the Hero Dog Sends Poachers Packing Moving on to the Emerging Hero Dogs category we have Abigail from Lehigh Acres, FL. Poor Abigail has had a tough life. She was found as a stray and taken to a rescue center where they determined that sadly she had been used as a fighting dog. She had so many injuries and scars, half her face was totally missing. She really was on death’s door, but she defied the odds and made a slow but full recovery. She rose to fame, when her carers thought her bandaged face looked like she was wearing a bonnet and shared pictures of her. She melted the hearts of the nation and people started to send bonnets in for her to wear. She stands as a symbol of the battle against dog fighting. The winner of the Guide / Hearing Dogs category is Pierce from Palm Bay, FL. Pierce is a guide dog for blind Army veteran Don who decided that he was being too much of a burden on his family as they helped him getting out and about. Pierce has transformed the life of Don and his family, Don now has so much more freedom and independence all thanks to Pierce, and they’ve gained a loving friend, too. Related: The Beautiful Final Moments of A Much-Loved Military Service Dog The finalist from the Military Dogs category is Adak the German Shepherd from St Cloud, MN. Adak is incredibly clever and worked as an explosive detection dog. He was so good at his job that he was selected to sweep public places for explosives before important dignitaries visited. During the course of his career he has prevented some major disasters and has helped in many difficult and dangerous situations. He is now enjoying a well-earned retirement in a loving family home. In the Search and Rescue Dogs category, the winner was Luca from Grand Prairie, TX. During an extensive search for a missing man suffering from Alzheimer’s, it was decided that Luca should be sent in to help. Luca tracked the man down. He had become stuck in mud on a river bank. If it wasn’t for Luca, the man would likely have drowned or frozen to death. Without Luca, he would not have been found in time. The winner of the Service Dogs category is Atlas the Wonder Dog (what a fab name!). Atlas is from Dayton, OH and has transformed the life of a marine who suffered from severe PTSD after returning from Iraq. A decade of therapy and prescription drugs couldn’t do what Atlas has managed to achieve. Atlas is trained to distract and reassure when feelings of anxiety approach. He has a place in the family that enhances the life of everyone. And finally, the winner of the Therapy Dogs category is Aladdin from Haddonfield, NJ. Aladdin has undergone a huge transformation. He was found back in 2013, thin, with broken legs, open wounds and missing teeth. You’d forgive any dog with these injuries for being wary of people, but no, from day one Aladdin loved people. His tail never stopped wagging. He loves being with people so much he now works as a therapy dog, he visits schools as an anti-bullying ambassador and he adores every minute of it! Head over to the Hero Dog Awards website to vote for your choice. Want to find out which dog wins the overall title? You can watch the two hour special on the Hallmark Channel this fall.

Dog Abandoned In South Korea Is American Humane’s 2018 American Hero

A once-abandoned Golden Retriever named Chi Chi stole America’s hearts and has now been named the 2018 American Humane’s American Hero Dog and is living the true American Dream. She was once found abandoned with all four legs bound in a trash bag in a dumpster in South Korea. Thankfully, Chi Chi was rescued, and though she was nearly dead, animal rescue workers brought her back to life. She lost all four of her legs, but her will to survive was what a family in Arizona found so contagious. Related: American Humane Nominee Was Returned 4 Times Before Finding Her Calling The Howells adopted her and helped her learn to overcome her challenges, teaching her to walk and fitting her with two prosthetic legs. She was such a great dog, the Howells worked to help Chi Chi become a certified therapy dog, working with various people with their own struggles. The tables have even turned on Chi Chi, as she’s had cancerous tumors removed and is a cancer survivor herself. Indeed, she is a true force of nature and proof that dogs have indomitable spirits. View this post on Instagram Similar to the Stanley Cup, Daddy thinks I should take my 2018 American Hero Dog trophy with me everywhere I go. Here’s a picture of me at the vet with my trophy. Get ready to see lots of pictures of me with my trophy. 🐶💕 I am so very grateful for your continued positive thoughts, healing vibes and prayers for my complete and perfect healing. 🐶💕 My grandpa is still going through the thousands of pictures he took during Hero Dog Awards. Mommy will post pictures as they are ready. 🐶💕 @herodogawards @hallmarkchannel A post shared by Chi Chi Rescue Dog (@chichirescuedog) on Oct 2, 2018 at 11:27am PDT Now Chi Chi is another winner–American Humane’s 2018 American Hero Dog. Elizabeth Howell is with American Humane and said that people everywhere are inspired by Chi Chi’s courage, her perseverance and her never-give-up attitude. Related: American Humane Turns Shelter Dogs to Service Dogs For Veterans Chi Chi will appear with the other heroic dogs who were part of the American Humane American Hero Dog contest later this month on the Hallmark Channel. Congratulations to the inspirational Chi Chi and all the amazing contestants this year!

People Online are Losing it Over Real-Life Rainbow Bridge Memorial

Social media has become a powerful space for pet parents to share the joys and challenges of living with their furry companions. From heartwarming adoptions to hilarious antics, our online feeds are filled with proof of the special bond that is formed between pets and their humans. But there is another side to pet ownership, a bittersweet time when we could use the understanding of other pet parents. That is, of course, the inevitable loss of a beloved pet and the emotions that come with it. A recent viral video has sparked a wave of shared grief and emotion on TikTok.The video, originally posted by @onlyjulianamarie on TikTok, shares a beautiful real-life “Rainbow Bridge” memorial in Lake Lure, NC. It includes a literal rainbow bridge upon which countless pet owners have placed collars of all colors and sizes to memorialize the pets that have left a lasting mark on their hearts. Many of the collars include tags adorned with the name of a special pet or a heartfelt engraved message. Others are nameless; their stories known only to the loving pet parents who placed them there.

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Can Dogs Get Harvest Mites?

Harvest mites, also known as chiggers or red bugs, are tiny parasitic mites that feed on the skin of various animals - including dogs. That’s right - dogs can get harvest mites too. These tiny pests are common in warm and dry climates and are active during the late summer and early fall. It is because of this that they are called “harvest” mites. But don’t be fooled by their tiny size – these mites can cause significant discomfort to dogs, mostly due to the irritation that their bites can cause.What Are Harvest Mites? Are They Dangerous for Dogs?Belonging to the Trombiculidae family, harvest mites are this subclade’s larvae. They are almost microscopic, measuring only about 0.2 mm in size. These mites are bright orange or red, which makes them slightly easier to spot on a dog’s skin, though their small size still makes them difficult to detect. They tend to live in grassy or wooded areas and attach themselves to dogs, humans, or other animals when they come into contact with the vegetation where the mites live.Now, once a harvest mite attaches itself to a dog’s skin, they will inject saliva into it in order to break down the cells which they consume. Unlike fleas or ticks, which feed on blood, these mites feed on skin cells. It is this process that causes an intense allergic reaction in dogs, leading to inflammation and itching. The dog may develop red, raised bumps or welts at the bite sites, typically in areas where the skin is thinner, such as the paws, belly, ears, or armpits.Your furry friend might scratch or bite the affected area, in hopes of easing the irritation. But this can potentially cause further skin damage or further infections. While harvest mites do not burrow into the skin, their bites can remain itchy and uncomfortable for several days, even after the mites are detached and gone.Symptoms of Harvest Mites in DogsIt is important to note that intense itching and irritation are not the only symptoms of harvest mite bites. If a dog is repeatedly scratching or licking at a particular area, this could indicate the presence of harvest mites, so know what signs to look out for.Red bumps and welts will often appear on the dog’s paws, belly, ears, or between their toes.Itching that is caused by harvest mites can be intense, and if your pet is vigorously scratching this is a classic indicator.In some cases, dogs may lose fur around the affected area due to excessive scratching.Constant scratching or biting may lead to crusty patches or open wounds. This is one of the more advanced signs.Of course, you need to make sure that harvest mite infestation is treated as soon as possible. This typically involves relieving the itching and removing any remaining mites. Of course, you need to seek the help of a vet, who will prescribe the proper treatment for your pet's unique case.

How to Safely Trim Black Dog Nails

Trimming your dog’s nails is a routine task that many dog parents handle with confidence. However, when your pup has a coat of jet-black fur, this simple task can become considerably more challenging. Unlike dogs with lighter-colored nails, where the quick (the sensitive part of the nail containing blood vessels and nerves) is easily visible, black nails can make it difficult to see where to safely trim. This can lead to anxiety for both you and your best friend. But fear not! With a little patience and the right techniques, you can safely and effectively trim your black dog’s nails, ensuring their comfort and well-being. Get started with this key grooming technique today! Why is Cutting Your Dog’s Nails So Important? Before we focus on the specifics of cutting black dog nails, let’s start with the basics. Why is keeping your dog’s nails trimmed and cared for so important? We often discuss the importance of grooming for dogs, including brushing your dog’s coat, haircuts for some breeds, dental care to prevent plaque build-up, and more. But caring for their nails is another aspect of your dog’s routine maintenance for their overall health and comfort. Overgrown nails can cause pain when walking or running. As your dog places their paw down on the ground, if the nail makes contact, this can push back on the paw causing discomfort or forcing your dog to alter their gait or posture to compensate. Over time, this can lead to more severe problems like long-term joint issues. Long nails can also reduce traction, causing your dog to slip and fall. This can have significant implications for senior dogs or those recovering from surgery or an injury that affects their mobility. In addition to your dog’s health, nail care is essential for a harmonious home. Longer, untrimmed nails can damage your floors, furniture, and other belongings. Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed back makes it possible for everyone to live together happily without getting hit with unnecessary damage and repair costs. How Do You Know Where the Quick is On Black Dog Nails? Knowing the location of the quick when trimming your dog’s nails is essential, regardless of their coat color. But why? What is the quick, and what are the risks if you don’t pay attention to it? As mentioned above, the quick is the sensitive area within the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves. This area is concealed within the nail and protected from harm or damage. However, when trimming the nails, you risk cutting the nail back too far and cutting into the quick. This can cause pain, bleeding, and unnecessary distress for your dog. It’s relatively easy to spot the quick on dogs with lighter-colored nails, as it can be seen through the nail as a pink or reddish spot. However, black nails present a unique challenge. The dark pigmentation of the nail makes it difficult or impossible to see the quick inside. Luckily, there are several techniques you can use to safely navigate this. One of the easiest and most effective options is to use a light source like a flashlight or phone light to shine a light through the nail. The quick will be identifiable as it will appear as a darker shadow within the nail. Other options include:Feeling for the groove or indent in the underside of the nail, as the quick will start just above this areaTrimming small amounts at a time while monitoring the appearance changes at the end of the nailUsing alternatives to nail trimming, like nail grinders and filing boardsIs it Better to Cut or Grind Black Dog Nails? The decision between cutting or grinding your dog’s nails is one that many pet parents debate. The truth is that there is no one correct answer. Both options have advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on several factors. However, it often comes down to personal preferences and your dog’s comfort level. Cutting a black dog’s nails with clippers is the quickest method. This is an easy solution for dogs who are already used to having their paws handled. However, if they are afraid of nail trims, even the site of the clippers can trigger anxiety. Knowing where to cut will require a keen eye and focus. You need to identify the location of the quick and take as much excess nail off as possible while avoiding harming this delicate area. This can be challenging if your dog keeps trying to pull their paw away, even more so if they have black nails concealing the quick. A slight miscalculation could cause pain and bleeding, putting your pup at risk of infection. Grinding your dog’s nails with a Dremel-like tool is a safe alternative for many pet owners. This uses an electrical file to slowly grind down small amounts of the nail. While this makes it possible to control the amount of the nail being removed better, protecting the quick, the noise and vibration of a grinder can be scary for some dogs. Ultimately, the best method for maintaining your black dog’s nails is the one that you and your dog are most comfortable with.

Purina Donates $25,000 For Pets & Owners Impacted by Hurricane Helene

The devastation of Hurricane Helene greatly affected the six states of the American Southeast. Major floods and extremely powerful winds destroyed homes and wiped out entire towns, and help is greatly needed. As search and rescue operations continue across the region, Purina announced a donation of $25,000, addressed to Greater Good Charities, a global nonprofit organization. This donation is meant to support these rescue efforts and to bring food, medical supplies, and other necessities to those who need it the most. However, it will also help to transport shelter pets to safety and to reconnect all the owners and pets that were separated during the hurricane. "Our hearts go out to the families and pets affected by Hurricane Helene and the devastating flooding across Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, and Virginia," said Kim Beardslee, Director of Community Affairs. "Purina has a long history of supporting communities in the wake of natural disasters, and we're proud to support Greater Good Charities' life-saving work during this time of great need."The nonprofit Greater Good Charities has several teams on the ground tasked with aiding those afflicted by the disaster. They are distributing food, water, and essential supplies to families, as well as veterinary supplies and pet food to pets. What is more, they are now conducting life-saving transports to save shelter pets. Besides their donation of $25,000, Purina is also busy working with several of its own US-based manufacturing plants in order to ship thousands of pounds of Purina pet food and other supplies to shelters and pet owners in the region that was devastated by Hurricane Helene. Of course, this is not the first time Purina stepped up to help those in need. Since 2017, the company has donated more than $400,000 and more than 700,000 pounds of pet food and cat litter. This went out to victims of deadly natural disasters across the United States. And it was their timely support and compassion that helped save thousands of lives.

Meet Finn, the Giant Cat Who is The Size of a 9-Year-Old Child!

The world of domestic cats is about to get a whole lot bigger if this cat has anything to say about it! Although wild cats are pretty big, I’m not talking about lions or tigers. Instead, I’m referring to a loved member of a California family. Finn the cat was adopted by his loving owner, Natalie Bowman, in 2017 at just three and a half months old. Bowman knew he was going to be a little larger than most domestic cats being a Maine Coon, but she had no idea exactly what she was in for… Maine Coons are well known for their large, impressive size, standing approximately 10-16 inches tall when full-grown. Their long, busy coat and tufted feet are well-insulated and water-resistant, allowing them to survive even in harsh winter climates. After bringing the young kitten home, he started to grow quickly. It wasn’t long until Finn reached then surpassed the typical Maine Coon size. By the time he reached his full-grown adult size, he measured a shocking 51 inches long and weighed 22 pounds.

How Do You Keep a Dog Active During Winter?

When winter arrives with its chilly temperatures, shorter days, and snowy conditions, it can disrupt your usual routines, especially if you have a four-legged family member. For dogs and their owners, this season presents quite a few challenges. However, despite the difficulties, keeping your furry friend engaged and active during the colder months is essential for their happiness and health. Here are some practical tips to help you and your dog make the most of winter.Bundle Up for Outdoor AdventuresDaily walks and outdoor play are essential for burning off energy and maintaining your dog’s fitness. But during winter, you’ll need to prepare for the cold if you want to keep up with your usual activities outside the house. Invest in proper winter gear for your dog, such as:A warm coat or sweater to keep them comfortable in low temperatures.Booties to protect their paws from snow, ice, and salt.

Cranberry Juice for Your Cat's UTI? Maybe There's Something Better

(photo credit: Dmitrii Ivanov / Shutterstock.com)Let’s agree that when in doubt, it’s always best to consult with a vet. But aside from it becoming rather pricey each time we head off with an issue that might have easily been resolved at home, it’s a stressor for your pet and one that might not always be necessary.Having had both felines and pooches in my household over the years, I suspect I’ve been exposed to every dilemma there is. From urine crystals to tooth removal, cyst surgery, cancers, and these days one that’s been diagnosed with a heart murmur and pot belly.“Not my first rodeo”, is an understatement when it comes to pet ailments.And that’s why I’m always interested in learning more about possible home solutions to some of the more chronic conditions. You know the ones like a dicky tummy, ear infection, and the classic urinary tract infection (UTI) that some pets just seem prone to. So, let’s talk about this last one which is caused when outside bacteria travels into the urethra and up into the bladder. It’s uncomfortable at best and if left untreated, can be downright painful when your pet is urinating.

How Do I Keep My Reptile from Overheating?

Reptiles are cold-blooded creatures, soaking up the sun to regulate their body temperature. But this doesn’t mean that they love ALL heat. As the temperatures climb outside, your reptile’s enclosure can quickly become dangerously hot, leading to serious health issues.This blog post will be your summer survival guide, packed with tips and tricks to keep your best friend cool and comfortable all summer long.What Happens if a Reptile Gets Too Hot?Overheating, or hyperthermia, occurs when a reptile's body heat rises dangerously high due to outside sources, and they are unable to adjust as necessary to bring it back down to a safe level.As cold-blooded animals, reptiles rely on outside influences for their temperature. If they are too cold, they seek heat. Likewise, if they are too hot, they seek a cooler area. However, if no cool space is available, their body temperature will continue to climb.Overheating can lead to dehydration, tissue/organ damage, or organ failure. Just as heatstroke can be fatal in dogs and cats, overheating can also be life-threatening for our reptile friends.What Temperature is Too Hot for Reptiles? Each reptile species has its own ideal temperature. For example, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the Greek tortoise thrives most in temperatures between 68 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the green iguana prefers warmer temperatures, between 84 and 91 degrees Fahrenheit. These temperatures reflect the reptile's typical natural environment.You will need to research the specific species to determine what temperatures are safe for your reptile and what are considered too hot. You can do this by looking up that information online, but ensure you only trust a reliable source. Another great way to find out your pet's ideal temperature is to speak with your exotic animal veterinarian. If you don’t already have a vet specializing in exotic animals like reptiles, this is the perfect opportunity to start your search. The Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians database is a great place to start!

What to Know About Dehydration in Cats

As a pet parent, it’s important to know about the risk of dehydration in cats. When the body is dehydrated, organs and bodily systems are negatively impacted and electrolyte imbalances occur, and if the dehydration worsens, it could be fatal.There are multiple causes of dehydration, and there are several symptoms that will alert you to the fact that your kitty isn’t hydrated. Keep reading to learn the basics so you’ll know what to look for and what you can do to help prevent this problem.

Two Pet Food Recalls Spark Fear of Bacterial Infections

This week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued two separate pet food recalls over fears of bacterial contamination that could cause health issues in pets and, in some cases, death.The first recall notice involves pet food for cats and dogs, and the second notice involves pet food for hedgehogs.A popular online pet food company, Viva Raw LLC of Hillsborough, North Carolina, has voluntarily recalled five of its cat and dog foods over the fears that the products may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. According to an announcement on the FDA website, the recalled products include Viva Turkey for Dogs Ground, Viva Turkey for Dogs Chunked, Viva Turkey for Cats, Viva Pure Turkey, and Viva Beef & Turkey for Puppies. All of the recalled products were manufactured under Lot 21244. The products involved in the recall were packed in clear packaging and shipped as frozen, one-pound bricks. The expiration date wasn’t listed on any of the packaging. The recalled cat and dog food was distributed to customers in all 50 states, including the Columbia district. Listeria was discovered in the food after the FDA conducted sample testing on Viva Turkey for Dogs. All pet food products from the same lot should have been destroyed, but the company claims some items were ‘inadvertently released from the warehouse’ to customers. According to the FDA press release: “Viva Raw is notifying all customers who were shipped any Turkey or Beef & Turkey for Puppies products between May 16th and June 28th, 2024. No illnesses related to this lot have been reported to date.” Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria that can cause Listeriosis in humans. Listeriosis is a serious infection that causes vomiting, fever, and diarrhea, among other symptoms. Pregnant women, young children, and old and sick people are at most risk of developing severe complications. In cats and dogs, this bacteria can cause diarrhea, anorexia, and fever. Some animals can also experience depression, miscarriage, and death.In addition to becoming sick, pets who consume the contaminated food can also become carriers, spreading listeria through their saliva and feces and infecting people and animals they come in contact with.In its notice, the FDA advises owners not to feed these contaminated products to pets. Also, you shouldn’t touch these products with your bare hands. Use gloves or paper towels to dump the product in a sealed bag and then disinfect all the surfaces that have come into contact with it.The second recall involves various lots of Sun Seed Vita Prima Hedgehog Food and Vitakraft Vita Smart Hedgehog Food. The Vitakraft Sun Seed Inc. of Wisconsin, Ohio, has voluntarily recalled some lots of various hedgehog foods, as they may be contaminated with Salmonella.According to the notice, the recalled products were distributed in many states, including Arizona, California, Georgia, Florida, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Massachusetts, Missouri, Minnesota, Nevada, North Carolina, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin.Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause serious infections in humans and animals. In humans, the most common symptoms of Salmonella are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramping. However, this bacteria can cause even more serious issues in people, including arthritis, endocarditis, arterial infections, and more. Pets suffering from a Salmonella infection can experience fever, diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, decreased appetite, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Some infected animals don’t exhibit any symptoms, but can be carriers of Salmonella and spread it to other people and pets. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Fall Safety Tips for Dogs

As the leaves change color and temperatures drop, it’s important to remember that the fall season can also introduce unique safety concerns for our pups. From seasonal health concerns to potential accidents, there are many risks to consider. Luckily, there are also precautions you can take to ensure your dog stays safe and healthy throughout the autumn months.In this blog post, I’ll introduce you to the most common fall dangers as well as essential fall safety tips to reduce the risk, allowing you and your dog to enjoy the season and all your favorite fall activities.Watch for Signs of Seasonal AllergiesJust like us, our dogs can suffer from an increased risk of seasonal allergies in the spring and fall seasons. This could include fall flowers, ragweed, dust mites, mold, and more. For dogs, the most common signs of seasonal allergies include: Licking excessively (especially their paws) Itchy, red, irritated skin Excessive scratching or biting at themselves Hair lossEar infections Head shaking or rubbing their head against things Red, watery eyes Coughing or difficulty breathing While seasonal allergies aren’t a life-threatening health risk, anyone who has suffered from them will tell you they are not pleasant. If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian to discuss your options. They may recommend products that can provide much-needed relief, like medicated shampoos, ear solutions, dietary supplements, and other simple solutions. Your dog will thank you! Be Careful with Corn CobsOne of the common autumn-themed decorations, you can purchase decorative corn on the cob at most grocery stores and farmer’s markets. While this is a great way to celebrate the season with decorations that can later be composted, making it more environmentally friendly, one major concern – corn cobs.Your dog may be tempted to nibble on that tasty corn, but they can’t properly digest the cob. This means ingesting a corn cob puts your dog at risk of suffering an obstruction in the digestive tract. These obstructions are painful and, unless treated quickly (often with surgery), can be fatal.If you are determined to use corn in your autumn decorations, ensure they are secured up and out of your dog’s reach.Decorate with Your Dog in MindSpeaking of decorations, switching from a natural solution (like corn) to commercial decorations doesn’t mean you’re eliminating all the risks. Many different seasonal decorations will come out this time of year – lights, fog machines, candles, inflatables, and more. Each of these items carries a risk you should be aware of.Anything with small pieces that may be ingested could pose a risk of obstruction. Additionally, if you are decorating with electrical components, pay careful attention to the location of electrical cords. Your dog may chew a cord, suffer an electrical shock, or become entangled in the cord.Finally, anything that contains a real flame should be used with care. One of the most recognizable images associated with Halloween is the glowing grin of a Jack-o-lantern, but if you’re lighting that grin with a real candle, you could be setting yourself up for trouble. Even if your dog shows no interest in trying to chew on or eat the pumpkin itself, there is the risk they will bump into it or knock it over. The same goes for open candles. This carries a risk of burns and the possibility of fires being started in or around your home.This doesn’t mean you can’t decorate for the season, just that you need to take a little extra care in making decorating decisions. Take a moment to view assess your decorations from your dog’s point of view, especially if you have a young and curious puppy. This may mean sitting on the ground for a moment to see if there are risks you didn’t notice when standing over them.Think Twice About that Halloween CostumeSpeaking of the holidays, are you considering dressing your dog up for Halloween? There is nothing wrong with including your dog in the family costume plans, but take care when choosing what they will wear. Avoid any costumes that contain small parts that could be ripped off and ingested. Additionally, steer clear of costumes with strings that could get wrapped around their necks or get caught on furniture, fences, and other outside objects.Carefully consider your dog’s comfort with various types of clothing. Are they okay with wearing something on their head? Most dogs aren’t, and that’s okay! If that’s the case, opt for a costume that doesn’t require a headpiece.If you have a dog who is resistant to wearing any type of clothing (some dogs even struggle with wearing harnesses), you could always play it safe and select a Halloween-themed bandana or a spooky seasonal collar.Watch Out for Toxic MushroomsIt’s mushroom season, one of the familiar signs that fall is here. While most mushrooms you will encounter are either non-toxic or will have minimal impact on your dog’s health, there are a few seriously toxic mushrooms that can be found across the United States and around the globe. The problem is that your dog likely isn’t a master in mushroom identification.Whether you plan on taking a fall hiking trip with your canine companion by your side or just hanging out in the backyard, always keep your eyes open for mushrooms. Add the number for the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (1-888-426-4435) to your phone so you can access it quickly in an emergency. After all, accidents happen even to the most diligent and responsible pet parents.

If You Have More Than One Cat In The Family, You Need This Product!

One of the foremost global tech brands in the pet market, Petlibro, has unveiled its latest innovation which is set to transform multiple-cat households. Their new product, the Dockstream RFID Smart Fountain is designed for cats and is set to become a real game-changer.Cats can be very sensitive to the quality of the water they drink, and owners often go to great lengths to make sure that water is safe. This, however, creates many challenges, especially in homes with several cats. In fact, research shows that over 30% of all pet owners in the U.S. are having difficulties in monitoring the effective hydration of their feline friends. The Dockstream, however, is set to change all of this. This streamlined RFID smart fountain is a state-of-the-art product that has numerous innovative features. Backed by RFID recognition technology, this fountain will know your cats by name, and can track each individual cat’s volume, frequency, and duration of water intake. And even though that sounds impressive, it is not the end of the list of innovations.

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