Are Ice Melts Safe for Pets?

3 Fun Facts About Your Dog's Nose

Dogs are known for their incredible sense of smell, but their noses are fascinating for more reasons than just that. Here are three fun facts about your dog’s nose that might surprise you.

Safeguarding Your Home for High-Energy, Too Curious Pets? We Can Help!

Your Dog's Craving Me-Time. Here's What That Looks Like.

Just like humans, our dogs need down time for themselves. And maybe with you nearby...

Why Is Your Cat Suddenly Biting?

Cats are known for their playful, sometimes quirky behavior, but when your normally gentle companion suddenly starts biting, it can be confusing and even concerning. Understanding why this shift happens is the first step toward addressing it. Let’s break it down.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

It's Back! 2025 American Humane Society's Hero Dog Award!

Meet the short list of five super special dogs all vying for this year's title.

Why Do Cats Like High Places?

While most cat parents will go to great lengths to invest in the well-being of their best friends, including premium nutrition and orthopedic bedding, we often overlook an important aspect of our cats’ environment: the vertical one. To a human, a tall bookshelf or the top of a refrigerator is merely a functional surface or a cleaning challenge, but to a cat, it’s a prime visual angle and command center.This preference for high vantage points is not a quirk of personality or simply a desire to climb; it is a fundamental biological desire hardwired into their DNA through millions of years of evolution.Understanding the world from your cat’s perspective requires shifting your gaze upward. In the wild, height was the difference between being a successful hunter and becoming a target for a larger predator. In our homes, this translates into a need for safety, confidence, and environmental control by finding high perches. By including vertical spaces in your home, you aren’t just giving your cat a place to play; you are providing an outlet for an instinctual need.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article, but at no cost to you.The Balance of Both Predator and PreyTo understand why your cat seeks the highest perch, you must first understand how it fits into their role in the natural world. Unlike most animals that are either hunters or the hunted, cats are considered “mesopredators,” meaning they fall in the middle of the food chain. This unique position directly affects their anatomy (ensuring they can both hunt and defend themselves) and is also the reason for their need for height.The Strategic Vantage PointFrom an evolutionary standpoint, height is an incredible advantage. In the wild, your cat’s ancestors used trees and rock piles to observe the world around them in 360 degrees. High ground allows them to use their highly developed peripheral vision to detect the slightest movement of small critters or birds below without being seen.Being in an elevated position at home, like on top of a shelf or piece of cat furniture, gives your cat the same feeling of having the advantage. They have a clear line of sight over their territory (your home), allowing them to watch out for potential dangers and changes in their environment. This makes them feel safer and more secure.Safety from Above and BelowWhile cats are incredible hunters, they are also small enough to be targeted by larger carnivores or birds of prey. This makes the floor a vulnerable place for a cat to rest, as they are unprotected out in the open. Being under a “ceiling” or tucked into a high shelf protects them from the instinctual fear of being snatched from above. Likewise, height creates distance between your cat and potential threats on the ground, such as a vacuum cleaner or an overly excited dog.Cats spend a significant portion of their lives asleep. A healthy adult cat will sleep, on average, between 12 and 18 hours a day. For your cat to be happy and healthy, they need to not only have the opportunity to sleep, but to have uninterrupted, quality sleep. A high perch that makes your cat feel safe helps them enter a deep REM cycle.Psychological Benefits of Vertical SpaceBeyond the physical benefits of a clear view of their surroundings, giving your cat access to elevated spaces is important for their mental health. Making the most of their vertical territory is one of the most effective ways to manage and improve your cat’s emotional well-being.Confidence and Environmental MasteryFor many cats, especially those with more reserved or anxious personalities, the floor can feel like a gauntlet of frightening risks and unpredictable activity. Height allows them to mentally “reset” in a place where they feel safe. Being able to look down on their surroundings also provides a sense of control, as they can process information like the arrival of a new guest or a loud appliance without feeling directly threatened. Experts also note that cats who are allowed to claim high spaces generally demonstrate more outward confidence, or “mojo,” because they feel they own the entire room, not just the square footage of the floor.Stress Reduction and Coping MechanismsIn a modern home, stress is often caused by the things we consider mundane or unimportant. A cat shelf or the top of a cat tree gives your cat a safe and socially acceptable way to withdraw from interacting with the people or pets in the room without having to leave entirely. This is especially important if your cat is living with a playful pup or young child. Height provides a predictable environment. While things on the floor move and shift, your cat’s high perch is typically a safe zone that belongs exclusively to them.Individual PreferencesWhile most cats gravitate toward height, it is helpful to recognize that it isn’t true for all cats. In fact, there are generally two personalities in cats when it comes to their environmental preferences:Tree Dwellers: These cats are only truly happy when they are at the highest point in the room. They are the ones you will find on top of cabinets or the highest perch on a cat tree.Bush Dwellers: These cats prefer to stay closer to the ground, often seeking out low-level cover or mid-height perches. They still benefit from vertical space, but they prefer shorter heights and secure hideaways.You can identify which of these two categories your cat falls into by observing their daily routine. Does your cat seek out the highest places they can perch? Do they prefer to nap in a ground-level hideaway like a kitty condo? Knowing this valuable piece of information, you can consider the best way to offer the environmental enrichment that best speaks to your cat’s needs.

Common Spring Flowers That Are Toxic for Cats

Spring brings warmer weather, blooming flowers, and plenty of chances for your cat to explore the outdoors. While flowers can brighten your home and garden, some of the most popular spring blooms can be dangerous for our feline friends. Knowing which flowers to keep out of reach can help you protect your cat and still enjoy a beautiful spring.  

How to Stop Your Dog From Barking During the Night

If your dog keeps you up at night with constant barking, you should know it’s not just you. It’s one of the most common frustrations for dog owners, especially when all you want is a good night’s sleep. The good news is that with a little patience and consistency, you can help your pup settle down and stay quiet through the night.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Treating Parvovirus in Dogs with Monoclonal Antibodies

Canine parvovirus is a serious illness that can be fatal, and treating it is difficult. There’s good news, though, as researchers found a way to target the virus with monoclonal antibodies (mAb)—a step beyond merely managing symptoms.  The treatment is Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody (CPMA) from Elanco. Given as a one-time IV injection, it can be used with supportive care to help dogs get over the parvovirus and recover fully. It has been around since 2023 when it was conditionally approved. But, this past June, the USDA expanded access and made it possible to also use this medication to prevent infection in dogs who are exposed to the virus.

Louis the Cat Will Inspire You to Explore with Your Furry Friend!

In a world where our cats often spend their lives within the confines of the four walls of our homes, a remarkable cat named Louis is showing adventurous cat parents that there is a different way. This adventurous Persian, with his owners Dan Taylor and Jess Peters, made headlines last year for his hiking achievements as the first cat to climb all 3 British peaks. Now, he’s back to inspire others again after completing a new hiking challenge across the Peak and Lake Districts. While not every cat may be a natural-born hiker, his owners’ advice is a great starting point for anyone considering adventuring with their best friend. “Not all cats are adventurous, but Louis is one of them,” cat dad Dan Taylor explained. “If anyone feels like they have an adventurous cat living with them, they can start them off with small adventures to build them up and see how they do. Some cats are interested in doing things like this.” There are several things to consider before hitting the trail. First, ensure your cat is comfortable with a harness and a leash. Start by letting them wear it for short periods inside the house. Next, gradually introduce them to the outdoors in a quiet, safe space like your backyard. Once they’re comfortable, you can move to short walks in a low-traffic area. Always remember to prioritize your cat’s safety and comfort. Look for signs of stress and never force them into a situation they’re not ready for. Common signs of stress in cats include: Changes in appetiteDigestive problems (diarrhea, constipation, frequent vomiting)Accidents outside the litter boxOvergrooming (may result in skin irritation or bald spots) Excessive vocalization Increased aggression or irritability (hissing, scratching, biting)TremblingWithdrawal or attempting to hide Louis’ adventures have earned him quite a dedicated following on his Instagram account, @lordlouis_persian. The couple has also used his platform for good, launching a fundraiser to support Cats Protection and a film project for Jess’s novel. The fundraiser highlights his efforts to explore the Catbells Ridge Walk and The Great Ridge Walk to raise attention and funds for the care and rehoming efforts of the organization, changing the lives of rescue cats in need. While 50% of funds raised will go to Cats Protection, Louis’s efforts are also going to help his cat mom, Jess Peters, achieve a dream of her own. The other 50% of the funds will help bring her fantasy novel, Alchemy Academy, to the big screen with StormLightUK. This brave kitty and his many adventures serve as a powerful testament to the bond between a pet and their person. They show us that with patience, preparation, and a little bravery, we can share incredible experiences with our best furry friends. It’s a great way to enrich their lives and our own in the process. Louis is not just a hiking cat; he’s an inspiration to use all to step outside, explore, and create unforgettable memories with the pets we love so much! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Dog Park Dedicated to Disabled Pooches Is First of Its Kind

Offering a safe space for differently abled pooches to romp and play, this seven-acre spread in the UK is nirvana for dogs and their humans.

5 Checks You Can Do At Home To Help Keep Your Dog Healthy

Your dog relies on you for care, love, and a little extra attention to stay happy and healthy. While regular vet visits are essential, you can also do simple checks at home to make sure your furry friend is feeling their best. These little routines help you spot changes early so your vet can step in if needed. Think of them as a way to stay tuned in to your dog’s well-being and strengthen the bond you share. Here are five regular checks you can start doing today.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

Why Your Dog Can't Sleep Through The Night Lately

If your dog’s suddenly struggling to sleep through the night, it doesn't necessarily mean they’re acting out.Just like us, dogs can have nights where rest doesn’t come easy. Understanding why can help you and your furry friend get back to peaceful nights.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Is Your Dog’s Vision Getting Cloudy? It Could Be Cataracts

If you’ve recently noticed your dog is starting to hesitate on the staircase they’ve climbed a thousand times before or bumping into the living room furniture that hasn’t moved in years, it’s only natural to worry. Your heart sinks a little as you wonder what’s wrong with your best friend.These changes can be subtle at first, but they can be a sign of a larger issue with your dog’s vision. One of the most common causes of this kind of gradual change is a condition called cataracts.In this post, I’ll explore what cataracts are, discuss the many reasons they may develop, and help you identify the signs. Most importantly, I’ll share the information you need to give your dog the best possible quality of life.What Are Cataracts?Let’s start with the basics: what exactly are cataracts? Imagine your dog’s eye is a tiny camera, and inside that camera, there’s a lens that focuses light onto the back of the eye to create an image. In a healthy eye, this lens is perfectly clear and allows light to pass through without any obstruction. A cataract is a clouding of the lens.When looking at your dog, the cloudiness may look like a smudge or fog stretching across the eye and covering your view of the iris. This cloudiness is caused by the proteins in the lens clumping together, which prevents light from passing through properly. As the condition progresses, the cloudiness becomes denser, blocking even more light.In the early stages, the cloudiness will cause your dog’s vision to be blurry. However, if it’s allowed to progress to a more advanced stage, it can lead to complete blindness.Cataracts vs. Nuclear SclerosisIf you have a senior dog whose eyes are starting to show a light haze, it’s easy to jump to the conclusion that it’s a cataract. This is a common concern, but it may be an age-related change called nuclear sclerosis.Nuclear sclerosis is a natural hardening of the lens that happens with age, causing the eye to have a hazy, grayish appearance. Unlike cataracts, it typically doesn’t significantly impact their vision. A cataract, on the other hand, is a more opaque, milky-white clouding that limits the passage of light into the eye. Only a veterinarian can tell for sure which one your dog has.Causes of Cataracts in DogsWhile we often associate cataracts with getting older, there are several reasons your dog may develop them (even at a younger age). Understanding the potential causes can help you take preventative steps and, where prevention isn’t possible, to prepare yourself to give your pup the best possible care.Genetic PredispositionOne of the most common factors, and unfortunately not preventable, is your dog’s genetics. Just like in people, some dogs are simply more prone to developing cataracts due to their breed. Breeds like Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, and Siberian Huskies are all at higher risk. If you know your dog’s lineage, it can give you a heads-up and a reason to be extra vigilant about any changes in their eye health, even from a young age.DiabetesThis is a big one. Diabetes is the most common preventable cause of rapidly developing cataracts in dogs. The link is direct and powerful. When a dog has high blood sugar, it affects the chemical makeup of the eye’s lens. This causes it to swell and become cloudy very quickly.Cataracts are often one of the first signs that a dog is suffering from undiagnosed diabetes. If your vet suspects the clouding is from cataracts, they will almost always test for diabetes as well.Injury or Trauma to the EyeA strike to the head, a scratch, or any kind of physical injury to the eye can cause significant damage to its delicate parts, including the lens. This trauma can impact the proteins within the lens, triggering the formation of a cataract. This is why it’s so important to be careful with your dog around things like sharp sticks and other potential hazards, or to use eye protection (like Rex Specs Goggles) when most at risk. Other Potential Causes While less common, there are other factors that can also contribute to the formation of cataracts. Chronic inflammation inside the eye, a condition known as uveitis, can damage the lens over time. In rare cases, especially in puppies, nutritional deficiencies can play a role, with the lens failing to develop properly. Ultimately, like with people, some cataracts are simply a part of the natural aging process, a gradual change that can happen to any dog as they get older. Warning Signs to Watch Out For Noticing that something might be wrong with your dog’s vision usually starts with subtle changes in their behavior. They can’t tell you that their vision is blurry, but their body language can help communicate that something is happening. Subtle Behavioral Changes These are often the earliest cues. You may notice your once active dog starts to hesitate before jumping onto their favorite spot on the couch or going up and down the stairs. They may seem a little confused, especially in new or dimly lit environments, possibly bumping into furniture or bumping into door frames that they use to navigate without any problems. You may also see a change in their play, as they stop engaging in their favorite games like fetch or struggle to catch treats when tossed their way. Sometimes a dog may become more anxious or clingy when their vision starts to change, especially if they are in an unfamiliar space. Physical Signs of Cataracts in DogsIn addition to behavioral changes, especially as the condition escalates, you may be able to see physical signs in your dog’s eyes. This is why many veterinarians recommend that dog parents do regular eye checks at home, helping them catch subtle changes early. When looking into your dog’s eye, look for a noticeable cloudy, milky-white, or bluish-gray appearance in one or both pupils. One or both pupils may not look as dark or black as they used to. While a hazy look can be a sign of nuclear sclerosis, a dense, opaque white appearance is a stronger indicator of a true cataract.

How to Keep Your Dog Safe from Predators While Hiking

Hiking with your dog can be an amazing way to enjoy nature together, but it also comes with some risks. Predators like coyotes, hawks, or even snakes can pose a danger to your furry friends, if you’re not careful.Here are some tips to help keep your pets safe while exploring the trails.

The Common Dog Anxiety “Trick” That Doesn’t Actually Work

If you’ve ever left the house and turned on the TV or radio so your dog wouldn’t feel lonely, you’re definitely not the only one. It’s one of the most common habits among owners of anxious pooches. But, unfortunately, it might not be as helpful as you think. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Top Veterinary Schools Teach Students How to Spot and Report Abuse

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Is Your Dog at a Healthy Weight? Using the Body Condition Score (BCS)

You want your dog to have the best possible quality of life, and that means focusing on both their happiness and their physical health. We talk a lot about the importance of good nutrition and exercise, but one critical piece of this puzzle is often overlooked or misunderstood: maintaining a healthy body weight.Unfortunately, a significant number of dogs are carrying a little too much extra baggage (and I’m not talking about the emotional kind). Many pet parents simply don’t recognize the sign until it’s too late, and their beloved pup is faced with the consequences of the excess weight. This includes health complications that can be life-changing or even life-threatening.The good news is that there is a simple tool available to all pet parents to help figure out if your pup is at their ideal weight. Better yet, it’s free! You just need to learn the basics of the Body Condition Score (BCS). By the end of this post, you’ll understand how to use the BCS like a professional, understand the risks of being too heavy or too light, and know what steps you need to take to ensure your dog thrives at their optimal, healthy body weight.What is the Body Condition Score (BCS)?The Body Condition Score (BCS) is, quite simply, the veterinary community’s gold standard for evaluating how much fat a dog is carrying. Think of it like a scale for body composition, which is much more accurate and meaningful than a traditional weight measurement alone. Why? Two dogs can weigh exactly the same, but because of their body shape, one might be lean and muscular, while the other might be carrying significant excess fat. The BCS focuses on the weight your dog is carrying, not just the numbers on the scale, and assesses whether the weight your dog is carrying is right for their individual body.The BCS isn’t something you can measure with a tape measure or a simple eyeball test. Instead, it requires a combination of visual observation and, most importantly, touch to determine where your dog falls on an overall scale.Visual Assessment: Looking at your dog from above and from the side to check for a defined waistline and abdominal tuck.The Touch Test: Gently running your hands along your dog’s ribcage, spine, and tail base to feel the underlying fat coverage.While both are important, the touch test in particular is crucial because fur, especially on fluffier or longer-haired breeds, can hide a lot. A dog may look slim, but the touch test will tell the true story.The Two Recognized BCS ScalesWhile the goal of both scales is the same (finding the sweet spot of optimal health for your dog), your veterinarian may prefer one of the two recognized BCS scales. For the sake of easily assessing your dog at home, I will focus on the simpler 5-Point Scale, but it’s helpful to know the more precise 9-Point Scale exists as well. The 5-Point Scale: Ranges from 1 to 5. A score of 1 indicates the dog is emaciated, and a score of 5 indicates the dog is obese. The ideal, healthy score is 3.The 9-Point Scale: Ranges from 1 to 9. A score of 1 indicates the dog is severely underweight, and a score of 9 indicates the dog is severely obese. The ideal, healthy range is 4 or 5.The difference between a BCS 4 and a BCS 5 on the 9-point scale is very subtle, which is why I recommend dedicated pet parents use the more practical 5-Point Scale for monthly check-ins. If you hit a clear BCS of 3 out of 5, your dog is in the ideal, healthy range.How to Assess Your Dog’s BCSThe beauty of the Body Condition Score is that it relies on three simple, tangible checkpoints that you can easily test at home. You’re looking for a specific blend of visual cues and physical touch sensations. Get comfortable, call your dog over, make sure you have treats close at hand, and I’ll walk you through the three key areas you need to check: the ribs, the waist, and the abdomen.The Ribs (Touch Test)This is the most crucial part of the entire assessment, as it tells you exactly how much fat lies beneath the skin, regardless of the fur that could be masking it. Place both of your hands lightly on your dog’s side, directly over their rib cage, and gently run your fingers along the ribs, moving back and forth. You should feel them easily, almost like the knuckles on the back of your hand when your hand is flat, but they shouldn’t be protruding, those same knuckles when you’re making a fist.BCS 1-2 (Underweight): The ribs are easily visible and feel sharp, prominent, and bony, with little to no fat covering.BCS 3 (Ideal): You can easily feel the ribs with just a light touch, but you cannot see them visibly popping out (except perhaps on short-haired breeds when they breathe deeply). They should feel like they have a thin layer of velvety fat or “suede” over them.BCS 4-5 (Overweight): You have to press firmly to feel the ribs through a noticeable spongy layer of fat. If you struggle to count them or have to hunt for them, the fat layer is too thick.The Waist (Visual/Overhead Test)Your dog’s waistline is the equivalent of their hourglass figure. It should be distinct and defined when you’re looking down at them from above. Stand directly over your dog while they are standing straight (not slouched or lying down) and look down at their back.BSC 1-2 (Underweight): The tuck-in is exaggerated, and the bones of the spine and hips might be sharply visible or prominent.BCS 3 (Ideal): You should see a clear and discernible waist. Their body should tuck in narrowly just behind the rib cage and before the hips. It should look like an hourglass or a gentle curve inward.BCS 4-5 (Overweight): There is no defined waist. The torso looks broad, oval, or blocky, extending straight from the ribs to the hips like a barrel.The Abdomen (Visual/Side Test)This view checks for the “tuck” under your dog's body, confirms their body shape, and identifies any signs of sagging that could indicate they are carrying excess weight. Stand to the side of your dog while they are standing. Focus on the area between the rib cage and the hind legs.BCS 1-2 (Underweight): The tuck is severe and exaggerated, often making their stomach look concave.BCS 3 (Ideal): You should see a significant abdominal tuck or upward slope of the belly when viewed from the side. This is most pronounced in athletic and deep-chested breeds (like Greyhounds or German Shepherds) but should be present in all breeds.BCS 4-5 (Overweight): There is no abdominal tuck. The belly hangs straight down or even sags. This is sometimes called a “pendulous abdomen” and indicates significant fat is being stored in the area.By putting all three checks together (the feel of the ribs, the view of the waist from above, and the tuck from the side), you can confidently assign your dog a BCS. If you consistently find yourself in the “Ideal BCS 3” category across all three points, congratulations, you’re doing a fantastic job! If your assessment leans toward BCS 4, 5, 1, or 2, it’s time to understand exactly why that matters and what you should do next.