Horse Housing Explained - What Are the Best Options for Your Horse

What is the Difference Between a Hamster and a Dwarf Hamster?

Hamsters are popular pets due to their small size and playful personalities. These pocket pets are an excellent choice for those who may be limited in space but still want to bring a companion into their home or apartment. With various breeds available, choosing between a Syrian or dwarf hamster can be overwhelming. Both offer unique characteristics, personalities, and care requirements. Let’s explore the key differences between these two adorable pocket pets to help you decide which is the perfect fit for your lifestyle and living space. Plus, we’ll share tips and tricks for giving your new hamster the best quality of life! Syrian Hamster vs. Dwarf Hamster: Key Differences Deciding between adopting a Syrian hamster or a dwarf hamster largely depends on personal preference. However, there are distinct characteristics that can help drive that decision. Let’s explore the physical differences between the two popular hamster breeds, including size, appearance, and temperament: Size and AppearanceThe most obvious difference between Syrian and dwarf hamsters is their appearance. Syrian hamsters (often simply called hamsters) are larger, growing up to 8 inches long. They have large, round eyes and are frequently described as looking like little teddy bears. This is also due to their most common coloring, a golden brown with white bellies. However, they can be found with white, black, or gray fur if you want a different color. Dwarf hamsters are smaller in size and often described as looking more like a mouse. Fully grown, they are usually 2 to 4 inches long. They are also available in a range of colors, but the most common are shades of grey-brown.Personality While the appearance differences may be more evident at first glance, the personality differences are often the reason why pet lovers prefer one over the other. Syrian hamsters are affectionate and loving pets, thriving off attention from their families. They are active, spending much of their time exploring their enclosure and playing with the available toys and features, but will also gladly spend time being held or handled (within reason). On the other hand, dwarf hamsters are considerably less affectionate. There are always exceptions to every rule, but most dwarf hamsters would be happiest spending their time playing independently. They have more energy than Syrian hamsters and higher exercise needs.

America Humane Names Their 2024 Hero Dog of 2024!

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

How to Make a Homemade Thundershirt

Is your dog or cat afraid of loud noises like fireworks or thunderstorms? If so, you may have come across this guide searching for a solution to help them feel calmer or more relaxed when faced with these triggers.The Thundershirt is one of the most popular products on the market. However, you may not have the time, access, or budget to purchase one when you need it most. If that is the case, you’re in luck. You can still offer the soothing effects of a Thundershirt by making a budget-friendly, DIY option.In this guide, I will walk you through the benefits of using a Thundershirt, steps to make your own homemade version and other solutions you may want to consider to help your pet feel secure and relaxed during stressful situations. Don’t leave your furry friend struggling with stress and anxiety when the solution is so easy!Signs Your Dog is Anxious or Afraid Before I break down the process of creating a DIY anti-anxiety wrap for your dog, let’s take a moment to discuss when your dog may benefit from wearing one. We often think of anxiety in terms of the ongoing mental health struggle many humans face. While it is possible for a dog to also face a similar struggle, anxiety in dogs is often triggered by a specific situation or fear. Anxiety, fear, and stress could be associated with a new or unfamiliar environment, the presence of strangers or unknown dogs, loud noises like fireworks and thunderstorms, or even a reflection of our own stress being sensed and shared by our canine companions. Some of the most common signs your dog is afraid or anxious include: Excessive panting or yawning Lip-licking Displaying their teeth Growling, barking, or nipping as a warning or form of self-protection Showing the whites of their eyes (also known as whale eyes)Cowering or trying to hide Submissive urination Tail tucked between their legs Reluctance to take food or treats Ears pulled backward or pressed forward against the head Shaking or trembling Sometimes, the signs of fear and anxiety will be obvious. However, at other times, the signs will be very subtle. As a dog parent, you must be familiar with your dog’s body language and the early signs that they may be uncomfortable. This will allow you to address their concerns, prioritize your dog’s well-being, and prevent a potentially dangerous situation. How Do Dog Anti-Anxiety Vests Work? If you have never been introduced to an anti-anxiety vest or wrap before, you may be curious about how they work. This drug-free solution uses something called “pressure therapy,” which uses gentle, consistent pressure to signal to the body to release feel-good hormones like dopamine and oxytocin. It’s the same technique behind the use of weighted blankets and swaddling. An anti-anxiety vest or wrap, like the Thundershirt, snuggly wraps around your dog’s chest and abdomen to put pressure in the right places to achieve this feeling of calmness, relaxation, and security. Where Can I Purchase an Anti-Anxiety Vest or Wrap? If you have the budget and time to shop for an anti-anxiety vest or wrap, there are many different options on the market. The brand name Thundershirt is the most commonly recognized brand, but it isn’t the only option. Whether you’re shopping at your local pet store, a big box store, or online, several are available, each with unique benefits. I recommend reading through the different features that set one product apart from another. For example, some anti-anxiety vests incorporate additional calming options like aromatherapy, while others are made from a more breathable material for hot climates or overly active dogs. Here are a few options I have tried and highly recommend: Classic Thundershirt for Dogs Thundershirt Sport for Dogs CozyVest 3-in-1 Dog Anxiety Vest Mellow Shirt Dog Anxiety Calming WrapHow to Make Your Own DIY Thundershirt for DogsEven if you have the budget to purchase an anti-anxiety vest, you may find yourself needing to address your dog’s anxiety before you have time to go shopping in person or wait for an online purchase to be delivered. For example, you may have come across this guide because you are currently trying to calm your dog during a thunderstorm. To make your DIY anti-anxiety wrap, you will need a long rectangle of fabric approximately twice the length of your dog’s body. Some options for this include: Cut up an old t-shirt, blanket, or towel A large scarf An ACE bandage or elastic bandageOnce you have your fabric strip, fold it in half to find the center. To make it easy to apply in the future, I recommend putting a tiny mark here with a pen or permanent marker. Place the marked spot at the center of your dog’s chest and bring the ends of the fabric around to the back by their shoulders. Cross the ends, bringing them back down to the stomach, where you will cross them again before bringing them up to the back and tying them off. As you go through this process, keep steady pressure and tension on the fabric so that the final wrap is snug and provides the pressure needed for the full effect. However, be careful not to tie it off too tightly. If it’s too tight, it can cause even more stress. Do you prefer this DIY approach, rather than purchasing an anti-anxiety vest? If so, you can take a couple of steps to transform your quick DIY into a longer-lasting solution that you can continue to use for weeks, months, and even years to come. First, depending on your chosen fabric, you may want to stitch the sides to prevent it from fraying or falling apart. This will also create a more polished appearance if you plan on using your homemade anxiety wrap when out in public with your dog. The second upgrade I recommend is the addition of Velcro to fasten it. Use a longer strip of the loop side (the soft, fuzzy side of the Velcro) that runs along the length of the fabric and a shorter patch of the hook side (the rough, scratchy side) on the other side. This will make it easy for you to adjust the fabric's tension and where the sides connect in the future if the fabric starts to stretch out from repeated use.

How Do I Travel with a Small Animal or Reptile?

Whether you’re planning an epic road trip, a family vacation, or simply need to transport your pet for a vet appointment, traveling with a pet always requires careful planning and preparation. Many guides are available, sharing tips and tricks for traveling with dogs and cats, but what about the many other pets we share our hearts and homes with?From choosing the right carrier to ensuring your pet is safe and comfortable throughout your adventure, we’ve thought of it all. This guide will provide essential tips for stress-free travel with your small animal or reptile.Do Reptiles or Small Animals Like Traveling? Before planning your big adventure with your pet by your side, take a moment to ask yourself an important question – will your pet be comfortable traveling? The answer to this is going to vary from pet to pet. While some are comfortable in new environments or around people they don’t know, others will find this experience incredibly stressful. Excess stress can harm your pet’s health and well-being. It has been associated with a weakened immune system, gastrointestinal problems, an increased risk of heart disease, and skin issues. It’s also considered the root cause of many common behavioral problems. If you know that traveling will likely trigger stress or anxiety in your pet, you may want to reconsider your plans. It may not be in their best interest to join you on your next vacation or getaway. Instead, find a reputable pet sitter to care for them while you’re gone in the comfort of their own home. However, there are also situations where this may be unavailable. For example, if you are moving to a new home, your pet will have to make the trip. You may not be able to eliminate all stress, but you can focus on making the situation as comfortable as possible with the following tips and tricks. What is the Best Way to Transport a Reptile? We don’t often see reptiles traveling with their people, and this is for one clear reason – even when a reptile is being transported, the best way to do it is in a secure container that minimizes their outside exposure. Reptiles are far more sensitive to temperature changes than most other pets. Keeping them in a secure but well-ventilated container allows you to maintain as stable a temperature as possible throughout your travels. Before heading out, check the weather. Will you be navigating hot summer temperatures or the cold of winter? Prepare to address these problems in advance by using heat packs or insulating the container they will be traveling in. Introduce your reptile to the container days or even weeks before your trip. Start with very short periods in the container and work up over time, allowing them to get used to being there. This isn’t a quick process, but it will help to lower stress levels during your travels. If traveling with a snake, you can also use a breathable snake bag or secure pillowcase to help them feel safe and secure. What is the Best Way to Transport a Small Animal? The term “small animal” refers to a wide range of animals, each with their own needs. This can significantly impact the best way to travel with your pet. The smallest of our beloved pocket pets, like mice and hamsters, should be transported in a secure cage or carrier. The size and style of the carrier will depend on how you are traveling and the length of your trip. For example, a flight-approved carrier has strict rules you will need to consider. However, if you’re taking a road trip with your pet and have space in your vehicle, you could even transport your pet in a standard cage or habitat, like the Kaytee CritterTrail Simple Start Habitat. These small enclosures may not offer the recommended long-term living space, but they are a great option for traveling in style. Another small animal carrier that is highly recommended is the Kaytee Come Along Carrier. Pay careful attention to anything in the cage/carrier that could be knocked over or thrown around if you are forced to hit the brakes. Secure the carrier or cage where possible to keep it from being thrown in an accident. A sheet or blanket can be placed over the carrier to reduce outside stimuli and create a more comfortable environment, but be sure that proper ventilation is maintained. Consider adding something familiar, like a favorite toy or blanket when setting up the cage or carrier. For some pets, a piece of your clothing, like a t-shirt you have worn with your scent, is also comforting and can help reduce stress. Larger small animals, like rabbits or ferrets, may also be comfortable traveling in a backpack or carrier designed for cats or small dogs. Ensure they will be secure in the carrier with no risk of escape. Even well-behaved pets used to being carried around at home may panic in an unfamiliar situation and try to make a run for it. Harness training your pet before your travels will allow you to add another level of safety and security. Are Reptiles and Small Animals Allowed on Planes? Yes, but with limitations. Many airlines will allow reptiles and small animals to be transported by air. However, most require that these animals be secured in the cargo hold during the flight. You will need to check with the specific airline for requirements in terms of carrier size and other steps for security to avoid your pet escaping and being lost. Some airlines will allow specified small animals to travel in the cabin. For example, Frontier Airlines allows rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters to be “carried on flights within the United States for a one-way directional charge.” If you are traveling internationally, only cats and dogs are permitted in the cabin. Pet policies are constantly changing and evolving. To ensure your pet will be welcome on the plane with you, contact the airline you are considering flying with and ask for their most up-to-date rules and regulations to determine what pets are permitted and the carrier requirements.

Does My Dog Need a Stroller?

Is a dog stroller a necessity or an extravagant splurge? While some may raise an eyebrow at the site of a dog riding comfortably in their stroller, these seemingly luxury items offer many benefits for both dogs and their owners. From providing a safe and comfortable way to transport your dog in various settings to accommodating mobility concerns and enhancing their quality of life, let’s explore why a dog stroller may be a great choice for your dog. Plus, I’ll share tips for choosing the best dog stroller for your pup and how to incorporate it effectively into your daily routine. What Are Dog Strollers? Let’s start at the beginning. What exactly are dog strollers? Are they the same as baby strollers? Can the two be used interchangeably? While dog strollers look similar to baby strollers in many ways, they have a few key features that differentiate the two. Most importantly, dog strollers incorporate a way to keep your dog secured and held in place so they can’t hop out and escape, like a zippered mesh cover or a leash attachment that can be hooked to their harness. They are often described as a “fancy dog crate on wheels.” The most basic models are soft-sided dog crates with wheels and a handle. But most offer other features, like adjustable or padded handlebars, cup holders, storage pockets and compartments, sunshades, and ramps for easy access. Is it Okay to Put Your Dog in a Stroller? An important question that every pet parent should ask when being introduced to a new product is whether it’s actually safe and beneficial for your pet. After all, just because it’s being sold and marketed doesn’t mean it’s good for them. When it comes to dog strollers, the answer is “maybe.” If you have a healthy dog, only taking them out in a stroller and not making space for the exercise and physical activity they require can lead to a whole list of health problems. However, there are many situations where a dog stroller can be used to improve your dog’s quality of health. In short, this means that, yes, there are times when it is okay to put your dog in a stroller. It is our responsibility as dog parents to recognize the right time and place for their use. Are Dog Strollers Only for Small Dogs? One of the most common misconceptions about dog strollers is that they are only designed for small dogs or toy breeds. While this is arguably the most common type of dog stroller on the market, it’s not the only option. Recognizing the benefits these products offer, many brands now make dog strollers with larger dogs in mind. This includes creating sturdier frames that can support heavier weights, offering more room for large dogs to sit or lie down comfortably, and even adding features like ramps to help our larger friends get in and out of the stroller when lifting them isn’t an option. A great example is the HPZ Pet Rover Titan-HD, designed for dogs up to 100 LBS. So, while your standard stroller may not be the right solution (not without breaking it), big dog strollers are available!

Dog Achieves Internet Fame with Her "Puppy Parkour"

The internet has opened the door for a new type of celebrity, making it easier than ever for individuals (humans and pets) to achieve fame and recognition on a global scale. Thousands of people around the world log onto social media each day to enjoy funny, adorable, and unique pet videos.  One such internet sensation that has recently captured the attention of thousands is Nola, a Treeing Walker Coonhound mix from New York. Vanessa and Ryan Marquette first met Nola when they brought her into their home as a foster. She was adorable and well-behaved, quickly connecting with the couple and making herself at home. It didn’t take long for the couple to fall in love. It was only three months after first bringing her home that they made it official and adopted her. “We could tell right away she felt so at home,” Ryan stated, “and she quickly became part of the family.” Not long after welcoming Nola into the family, a pet sitter mentioned that she was exhibiting an interesting (and potentially problematic) skill. They warned the couple that the pup had managed to jump over the tall fence that surrounded their property. Given the height of the fence and the fact that they had never seen Nola making any impressive jumps in the house, it was hard for the Marquettes to believe that she could leap over the fence in one bound. It seemed like an unbelievable feat. So, they pushed the idea aside and didn’t give it another thought. “I didn’t believe that she was jumping the fence. That’s a four-foot jump. That’s significant. She’s not the biggest dog in the world. So, I remember going out and walking the entire fence perimeter, looking for holes because I was like, there’s no way. She’s slipping out underneath somewhere doing something, and that’s how she’s getting out. Then I found nothing,” Ryan explained. However, after moving to a new home in Syracuse, New York, with a larger yard and trees around the property, they noticed something interesting. It wasn’t that Nola was “jumping” over the fence. Instead, she was using her own take of puppy parkour to scale the fence with the help of a nearby tree.

Can Dogs Have ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also known as ADHD, is commonly discussed in relation to humans, children in particular. And just as its name suggests, this mental disorder is characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. However, in recent years pet owners and veterinarians have begun to wonder if similar behavioral issues can also affect dogs. Can dogs have ADHD? Here’s what the facts say.Can Dogs Have ADHD?In humans, ADHD is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder and is usually diagnosed in childhood. Symptoms typically include difficulty focusing, excessive energy, and impulsive actions. It is often treated with a combination of behavioral therapy and medications. And, understanding these traits in humans can help us look for analogous behaviors in dogs as well.Just like humans, dogs can also exhibit a range of behaviors that might seem similar to the symptoms of ADHD. Common behaviors that concern pet owners include excessive barking, restlessness, an inability to settle down, destructive behavior, and an apparent lack of focus or attention. However, it is essential to recognize that dogs naturally have higher energy levels compared to humans, for example, especially certain dog breeds. For instance, Border Collies and Jack Russell Terriers are known for their high energy and require significant physical and mental stimulation. This is why it is crucial to distinguish between normal breed-specific behavior and potential behavioral disorders. Veterinarians and animal behaviorists have mixed opinions on whether dogs can genuinely have ADHD. Dr. Nicholas Dodman, a veterinary behaviorist who wrote the revolutionary book “ Pets On the Couch”, has suggested that dogs can exhibit behaviors akin to ADHD in humans. He points out that some dogs may show persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that go beyond typical high-energy behavior. 

What Is Dog Splooting?

Dogs do a lot of quirky things—one of the many reasons why everyone loves them so much. But have you heard of the sploot? This is a common behavior, with puppies and adult dogs from all breeds exhibiting it. Keep reading to learn all about dog splooting, including how to recognize when this isn’t considered a normal behavior.

Georgia Non-Profit Gives Shelter Dogs a Second Chance as Police K9s

In a heartwarming story of second chances, a non-profit organization in Georgia is transforming the lives of shelter dogs by training them for a new purpose in life. These remarkable pups are breaking the stereotypes of “damaged” shelter dogs by being trained to serve as police K9s. Co-founders Samantha Walsh and Matt Rook are both passionate dog lovers. Recognizing that incredible dogs were being abandoned by the people who were supposed to love them, many never living out their final days before being euthanized for no fault of their own across the country, they wanted to find a solution. Rook previously served as the police chief in Chattahoochee Hills. During his time there, he faced a tight budget that didn’t allow him to fund a K9 unit in the area. Many people don’t realize how pricey it is to incorporate a K9 unit with a police force. A single purebred working dog, bred to serve in a law enforcement capacity, can cost more than $25,000. For many smaller towns and communities, this restricts their ability to incorporate the benefits of a K9 unit protecting their neighborhoods. However, Rook and Walsh had another idea… Drawing on their experience with law enforcement and working with dogs, they proposed the idea that a healthy rescue dog could be adopted and trained to do the same work at a much lower cost to law enforcement agencies. With this in mind, they created a non-profit arm of their business, Hurricane Creek K9.

Hiking on the Agenda? Check Out These Easy-Pack Snacks for Dogs.

Environmental Enrichment for Hamsters

Like other pets, hamsters benefit from environmental enrichment that makes it possible for them to behave much like they would in the wild. Sure, you want an enclosure that will be large enough for them to move about comfortably, with areas for eating and sleeping, but you can do a lot more to keep your little hamster happy and stress-free. Here are a few easy ways to enrich your hamster’s environment and help them thrive.

Why Do Dogs Burrow in Their Blankets?

Have you ever watched your dog bury themselves beneath a mountain of blankets, only to peek their head out with a look of pure joy and bliss? It’s a behavior that’s incredibly common. Yet it leaves so many dog parents confused – especially when your dog chooses to disappear into the blankets in the middle of the summer heat!Why are dogs so drawn to burrowing under their blankets? Is this a quirky habit, or is there a deeper reason for this cozy behavior?Let’s take a look at the fascinating world of canine behavior. We’ll talk about the instincts that encourage your dog to dig into their bedding to create that perfect “nest” and other interesting behaviors related to puppy bedtime.Why Do Dogs Love to Burrow?Like many dog habits, burrowing can be traced back to their evolutionary roots and the survival instincts of their wild ancestors. In the wild, dogs burrow in the ground to create a safe space to rest or raise their young. We still see these dens being used by foxes and wolves. Dens not only offered a place to hide from potential predators but also protected them from the elements. Today, domesticated dogs obviously aren’t faced with the same risks. However, this doesn’t take away from the natural desire to keep themselves safe. Burrowing into the blankets to create a den creates a space where your dog feels safe and secure.  It makes sense to snuggle under the blankets in the winter for a little added warmth. But what about the summer? Next time you are outdoors on a hot summer day, dig away a little dirt, and you’ll find that while the surface is warm, the ground a little further down is much cooler. Therefore, they associate this behavior with finding a cooler spot shielding them from the summer heat. Can Dogs Breathe Comfortably Under the Covers? One concern I often hear when people see my dog Lucifer snuggling happily under the covers (his favorite place to sleep) is whether he can breathe safely. When assessing whether your dog’s burrowing behavior is safe, take a moment to consider their survival instinct. If a dog gets into a situation where they can’t breathe, they aren’t going to choose to remain there – instead, they will make an effort to get back out to safety as quickly as possible. A dog snuggling happily under the blankets feels safe and secure, meaning they can clearly breathe well enough to feel comfortable there.  If you’re still concerned about the safety of your blanket-loving dog, take a moment to look at the blankets that are available to them: Are they thick, heavy blankets that can be stuffy, cutting off airflow? Are they thinner or designed in a way that allows airflow? Consider offering multiple blankets of varying thicknesses. This will allow your dog to burrow in and find the blanket (or combination of blankets) that makes them feel the most comfortable. Which Dog Breeds Are More Likely to Exhibit Burrowing Behavior?Some dog breeds are more likely to engage in this behavior. This is usually due to the roles your dog’s ancestors were bred to perform. For instance, Huskies and Malamutes are often burrowers. These are Arctic breeds that lived and worked in subzero temperatures. Creating dens in the snow was a necessary part of their survival when living in those conditions, making it an instinctual behavior.  While your northern dog may no longer live in the land of ice and snow, they still exhibit many of the same instincts. Dogs that were bred to hunt rodents are also natural burrowers. During their hunts, they would often dig to help them squeeze into the small dens and tunnels created by their prey, flushing them out. This includes smaller breeds like Dachshunds and Terriers. Any dog, regardless of breed, may embrace the joy of burrowing – either digging a den outdoors or burrowing into the blankets. Just ask my German Shepherd/Australian Cattle Dog, Lucifer. He loves nothing more than to snuggle comfortably under the blankets!

How Much Exercise Does a Cockapoo Need?

Cockapoos are known as one of the most popular hybrid dog breeds. Thanks to their intelligent nature and friendly demeanor, they are adored across the globe. A distinct mixture of a playful Poodle and a gentle Cocker Spaniel, these dogs are very energetic and fun. And this is exactly why exercise is so important for these pooches – it ensures a Cockapoo remains healthy and mentally stimulated. Without regular exercise, many things can go awry for these doggos. This is why you should know just how much exercise is enough for a Cockapoo, and make sure you provide a balanced daily routine for your little furry friend. How Much Exercise Does a Cockapoo Need?Even though these dogs are energetic, they are not considered sporting dogs. This means that, on average, they will be quite content with around 30 to 60 minutes of quality physical activity each day. But even so, the exact amount of time will depend on several factors, such as the dog’s age, size, and energy levels. Some dogs simply love to chill, relax, or snooze, while others prefer to zoom about to no end and that stands true for Cockapoos, too. After all, it is only natural that a young Cockapoo will need more physical activity, and an older one prefers short and less intense exercise sessions. Of course, exercise is not all about running about and jumping through hoops. There is also mental stimulation. While running, walking, and good playing will help burn that extra energy and maintain a slim physique, certain games and special dog puzzle toys will help keep their minds sharp and healthy as well. 

Lyft is Making it Easier Than Ever to Travel With Pets!

Great news! Lyft, the popular ride-sharing app, has now introduced a new feature that’s sure to create excitement for pet parents everywhere: Pet Rides! This feature lets pet parents connect with pet-friendly drivers, guaranteeing your companion can join you on your adventures. Pet Rides officially launched on National Dog Day – celebrating the role dogs (and other pets) play in our lives. The convenient feature provides more flexibility for pet parents on the go.To use the feature, you will need to select “Pet Ride” when searching for ride availability. This will ensure that your options exclusively include drivers who have opted to allow pet travelers in their vehicles. The additional $4 (plus tax) fee for the Pet Ride will be factored into the upfront price shown in the app. However, an extra cleaning fee may be charged if your pet leaves an excessive mess or damages the vehicle during the trip.Of course, this is for companion pets, not service animals. Drivers are still required to accommodate service animals, per the Americans with Disabilities Act.The Pet Ride feature allows for one pet per pet-friendly ride, with no restrictions related to breed or size. Additional pets may be permitted on the ride at the driver’s discretion, but it is not guaranteed. Pet rides are currently only available in the United States.This feature is similar to the Uber Pet feature offered by the most popular competitor, Uber.“At Lyft, we believe that everyone belongs, and that includes our four-legged family members,” stated Audrey Liu, the Executive Vice President and Head of Rider and Community Safety at Lyft. When asked about the feature, she explained that it will make it “easier than ever for pet owners to get where they need to go with their pets.”While there are no specific rules or requirements in terms of how a pet can travel in the vehicle, pet parents are asked to be respectful of the driver and other riders by keeping their pet in a carrier, on a blanket to keep any mess contained (like muddy paws or shed fur), or seated safely at your feet while the vehicle is in motion. If a dog does create an unsafe situation, serving as a distraction and putting the driver and any passengers in the vehicle at risk, the ride may be canceled.Traveling with pets can be stressful, especially if this is your first time. From trying to find pet-friendly accommodations to determining whether public transit options will even allow your pet to ride, a fun adventure can quickly become frustrating and overwhelming.By offering a pet-friendly ride option, Lyft is the latest company to demonstrate its commitment to creating options for pet-friendly travelers. But this isn’t the first time that Lyft has stepped up to create a safe and accommodating solution for a particular population among the app’s users. For example, Women+ Connect allows females and non-binary riders to request a female or non-binary driver, addressing safety concerns they may experience when getting into a vehicle with a stranger. As a pet-friendly traveler myself, I’m excited to see what companies in the travel industry will be the next to revolutionize travel as we know it with our furry (feathered, scaly, etc.) friends in mind!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter   here.

Ready to De-Stress Bath Time for Your Dog?

(photo credit: Gudman / shutterstock.com)I was raised to believe you shouldn’t bathe a dog because it would deplete the natural oils in their fur and dry out their skin. Back in the day, it was assumed that a dog’s ability to self-groom was sufficient to take care of whatever clean-up they might need.Fast forward, and with dogs sleeping in our beds and snuggling on our sofas, we’re suddenly much more aware of the need to keep our pets well-groomed and yes, smelling fresher.Aesthetics aside, bathing your dog not only allows you to check for ticks, sores, and lumps that shouldn’t be there, but a periodic scrub can also keep his skin and hair, healthy. With some breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, and West Highland Terriers (to name a few), a skin condition called Seborrhea can be common. Yes, just like with humans it’s down to an increased production of skin cells and/or skin oils.When it’s the dry version, you get flaky, scaly skin cells (dandruff) caused by excess keratin production. When oily, you get a waxy substance comes from the sebaceous glands which causes your dog’s coat to look greasy.Whether your pooch falls into the above category or he simply loves to dig, burrow, and roll in whatever he can when given the chance, cleaning him up is something you both deserve.

Rescue Dog Goes on Tour with Pink to Find Forever Home

We often hear about musicians and artists making an impact through financial donations or participating in charitable events. But a new heartwarming story of a dog’s search for his forever home has been capturing the hearts of animal lovers everywhere. Graham Cracker was found by a young girl in the woods of Vilonia, Arkansas, with his mother and littermates. She had been sneaking food to the stray mama dog, trying to do what she could to help. After her mother found out about the dogs, she contacted a rescue team to find them and get the pups to safety. This was when their journey led the pups to The Bond Between, a non-profit rescue organization in Minnesota. But for Graham Cracker, this was just the beginning! On October 17th, an announcement on Instagram revealed that Graham Cracker had found a loving but very unique foster parent. After seeing the young pup’s adorable photos, Grammy-winner Pink invited the pup, who appears to be a Labrador Retriever mix, to join her and her family on tour. She went on to announce the decision to her fans during her St. Paul, MN show:“We rescued a puppy from this awesome organization called The Bond Between. His name is Graham Cracker. He’s currently peeing all over my dressing room,” Pink stated while seated at her piano on stage. “We’re actually – I haven’t told anybody this yet, but we’re gonna foster him for the tour, and he’s gonna go on this big carnival adventure with us.”

Should I Use an Online Pet Pharmacy to Save on Medication?

Being a pet parent is a rewarding experience, but it can also be a costly one. From buying necessities like food to annual vet visits and vaccinations, it adds up quickly.One area where pet parents often try to save money is on medication. Online pet pharmacies have been growing in popularity as a convenient and potentially cost-saving solution. However, before you jump to make the switch, you must weigh the pros and cons. Why are many pet professionals cautioning against these websites?To help you make an educated decision for your best friend, I will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of buying a pet’s medication online. Plus, I’ll share some key factors to consider when deciding where to fill your pet’s next subscription.What are Online Pet Pharmacies?Before we start talking about the finer details of why you should (or shouldn’t) consider using an online pet pharmacy, let’s take a step back to start at the beginning. What are they and what do they offer to pet parents?Online pet pharmacies are online retailers that sell medications and other pet care products. They operate as an online alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar pet stores and veterinary clinics, allowing pet parents to purchase medications and supplies from home to be delivered to their door. These pharmacies often carry a wide range of pet-related products, including prescription medications, flea and tick treatments, heartworm preventatives, and nutritional supplements.One of the reasons that online pet pharmacies are gaining so much attention is the potential for cost savings. However, it’s important to note that not all these websites are trustworthy. Some have even been found to sell counterfeit or expired products! This is why it’s so important to have this discussion.Benefits of Using Online Pet PharmaciesOnline pet pharmacies offer a convenient and efficient way to manage your pet’s needs and stay on top of their healthcare. By allowing you to shop online, they help streamline your pet’s medication routine while providing access to a wide range of products at the click of a button.Here are a few reasons why you may want to consider picking up your pet’s medications online:Cost SavingsOne of the most significant benefits of using online pet pharmacies is the potential to save a little money. Times are hard and people are struggling – I get it! These pharmacies often offer lower prices on a wide range of medications compared to traditional brick-and-mortar locations.First, online pharmacies typical have lower overhead costs than traditional pharmacies and vet clinics. They don’t have to maintain a physical location, which means they don’t have to worry about rent, utilities, and staffing. This cost savings can be passed onto you in the form of lower prices.Second, online pharmacies often buy the medications from the manufacturers in bulk, allowing them to negotiate lower prices. By buying larger quantities, they can score better deals. These savings allow them to offer the medications at lower prices.ConvenienceOnline pet pharmacies are more convenient than traditional brick-and-mortar options. With just a few clicks, you can easily order your pet’s medication from the comfort of your own home. This eliminates the need to take a trip to your vet clinic or local pharmacy, with the medications instead being delivered right to your front door.Another convenient feature is the option for autofill. Most online pharmacies allow you to set up autofill, ensuring your pet’s medication is automatically shipped to your door before they run out. This eliminates the hassle of reordering prescriptions and ensures you’re never in a position where you don’t have their needed dose available.Wide SelectionThese online pharmacies offer a wider selection of mediations than traditional brick-and-mortar options. This is because they can tap into a larger network of suppliers, allowing them to source products from around the world.This selection can be particularly helpful for pet owners with specific needs, such as those with rare conditions or allergies. In addition to a wider variety of common medications, may of these online pharmacies also offer specialty and hard-to-find medications that are not readily available in most brick-and-mortar locations.

5 of the Rarest Cat Breeds

There are many cat breeds that you can choose from, and some are much more common and easy to find than others, including in shelters and rescues. Rarer cat breeds, such as those listed below, are harder to come by. They might not be as well-known or as popular as other breeds, and there may not be as many breeders as a result. Once you get to know the defining characteristics and features of these breeds, though, you might want to find a way to bring one into your family.