Neutering Kittens Early Doesn't Lead to Heavier Cats, Study Finds

Great Dane Draws Ire From Fellow Plane Passengers

Claimed to be an emotional support dog, Instagram followers share their thoughts.

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

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

How Season Changes Can Affect Your Pets (and What You Can Do About It)

Just like us, our furry (or feathery or scaly) companions can feel the shift when the seasons change. While they may not be reaching for pumpkin spice lattes or sunscreen, pets are surprisingly sensitive to changes in weather, daylight, and temperature.Understanding how these changes affect them can help you keep your pet comfortable, healthy, and happy year-round.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

How Much of My Dogs Grooming Can I Do Without Formal Training?

(photo credit: Zuzanna Paluch / shutterstock.com)With two Schnoodles and a Miniature Schnauzer, grooming costs can take a big bite out of my budget. And like many pet owners with dogs in need of regular clipping, I not only considered the do-it-yourself option during COVID, but I jumped in with both feet. Yes, grooming kit and all, I clipped and shaved with guesswork guiding me, because I had no choice. The results? Rough to say the least, with my go-to response to other dog owners being “at least they’re cooler now”.Of course, once quarantines were lifted, I was happy to let the professionals take over, but my foray into grooming did make me wonder if, by doing some of the “clean-up” work myself, I could extend the duration between those pricey haircuts. The easy stuff, like ear cleaning, bath and blow dry, nail trimming.The truth is, with the right equipment, I can, and it starts with a good brushing. And we’re talking a serious clean-up with the sole goal being to remove tangles and the bits of debris your pooch has collected over the past week or so. Legs, ears, paws, torso, beak… it all gets a thorough once-over.

5 Common Garden Hazards to Keep Away From Pets

While gardens may seem like a safe space for pets to roam free, they can sometimes harbor surprising dangers that many pet parents overlook. Whether you're planting a new bed of flowers or letting your dog sunbathe on the lawn, here are five garden hazards that could put your pets at risk.

Lucky Has Spent 1,500 Days in a Shelter Waiting for a Forever Home

Some dogs get scooped up within days of arriving at a shelter. A few might wait a little longer. Then there’s Lucky, a sweet, misunderstood Labrador mix who’s been in a California rescue for more than four years.That’s 1,500 days of watching other dogs come and go. Of hearing excited voices, footsteps, the rattle of leashes, and none of it for him.Lucky has been living at AGWC Rockin’ Rescue in Woodland Hills since 2021. He came in after being rescued from a rough situation. His background’s a bit of a mystery. But it’s clear he didn’t have much of a foundation, no real training, no one to teach him how to be a pet, and no reason to trust people. Yet somehow, he’s never stopped trying.“He’s not the kind of dog who jumps up and licks your face the second you meet him,” said Fabienne Origer, a staff member at the rescue who’s known Lucky for years. “But once he bonds with you, he’s deeply loyal. He’ll follow you around, he’ll lean in for affection—he just needs someone to give him the time to feel safe.”And that’s been the hardest part. In the chaos of a rescue, dogs who take a little time to warm up often get overlooked. People want an instant connection, and Lucky doesn’t offer that. He’s quiet, he studies people, he waits.As a result, most visitors pass right by.Over the years, the rescue has done everything it can to keep Lucky’s spirits up. He goes on walks. He gets enrichment games. The staff works with him regularly to help him stay mentally sharp and emotionally grounded. And it’s clear he still has so much to give, he's a bright and curious pooch, eager to learn. He just needs a home that’s calm, consistent, and committed.“He thrives when he knows what to expect,” Origer said. “A quiet home, no kids, someone experienced with dogs, that’s all he needs. Just one person who’s willing to go a little slower and let him come around.”Recently, the rescue posted a video of Lucky lying in his kennel, head on his paws, eyes staring off toward the front door. It wasn’t dramatic. There was no music, no narration. Just Lucky, waiting. And somehow that was enough. The comments poured in, some heartbroken, some angry, many asking, how is this dog still here?It’s a good question. Because the truth is, there’s nothing wrong with Lucky; he just doesn’t fit into a box. He’s not flashy or showy, and he doesn’t love everyone on sight. But he does love deeply, once he decides you’re safe. And if you’re lucky enough to earn that trust, you’ll never find a more loyal friend.Shelters do everything they can, but they’re not homes. And after four years, Lucky is starting to show signs of wear. He still has hope—he still perks up for his walks, still chases after a ball, but there’s a tiredness in his eyes that wasn’t there before. A quiet question: Is anyone ever going to come for me?If you’re reading this and thinking, maybe I could be the one, the rescue would love to hear from you. Lucky’s not for everyone. But for the right person, he’ll be everything.He’s not giving up. And neither are the people who love him.But after 1,500 days, it’s time for Lucky to find his person and go home. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Daring Rescue of Dog from Freezing Water Highlights Major Winter Risk

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

Study Reveals Some Dog Breeds Are More Likely to Get Diarrhea

Few things are as awful as diarrhea and seeing your pooch in gastrointestinal distress. Unfortunately, most dogs are diagnosed with diarrhea at least once in their lifetime. Like in people, diarrhea in dogs is loose or unformed stool. Dogs suffering from diarrhea usually pass large amounts of loose stool more often than usual. Diarrhea by itself isn’t a disease, but rather a symptom of many different conditions. Loose stool caused by minor health problems is often resolved quickly with a simple treatment and a change of diet. However, diarrhea can also be a sign of serious, life-threatening conditions like organ failure or cancer, so it’s important to take your pooch to be examined by a vet. Even diarrhea caused by a minor illness can get out of hand if not treated in time. A new study, published in the open journal PLOS One, suggests that some breeds may be more prone to diarrhea than others. Researchers from the United Kingdom’s Royal Veterinary College analyzed the health records of more than two million dogs brought to the vet in the U.K. in 2019. Researchers estimate that one in 12, or 8,18%, dogs were diagnosed with diarrhea at some point during the year. The study found six breeds - Maltese, miniature poodle, German shepherd, cavapoo, cockapoo, and Yorkshire terrier - were considerably more likely to be diagnosed with diarrhea. Only two breeds - Jack Russel terrier and Chihuahua - were less likely to be diagnosed with diarrhea. Researchers believe these breeds may have higher and lower susceptibility to diarrhea. However, they can’t rule out the fact that different breeds have different diets, and even owners with different likelihoods of taking their dog to the vet in case the dog gets diarrhea. The study also showed that dogs who were three years and younger, as well as pooches aged nine and over, were more likely to be diagnosed with diarrhea than four or five-year-old dogs. Researchers weren’t surprised by these results, considering that older dogs are more likely to get diarrhea from complications related to aging, and younger dogs are extremely curious and more likely to eat something they shouldn’t, resulting in diarrhea and other digestive issues. Moreover, many dogs with diarrhea were also diagnosed with other issues at the same time. About 44% experienced vomiting, 28% had reduced appetite, and 24% were lethargic. Of all the cases analyzed, 29% were classified as hemorrhagic, meaning those dogs suffered from bloody diarrhea. The good news is that most dogs recover quickly from diarrhea. Over 80% of dogs in the study only needed one visit to the vet. However, researchers also found that 38% of dogs with diarrhea were treated with antibiotics, even though experts advise against using antibiotics in dogs with mild and moderate cases of diarrhea. “Experiencing the dreaded ‘poonami’ with your dog is one of those events any dog owner fears. This new study shows that diarrhea events are very common in dogs but that owners should not panic - no matter how bad the deluge, most dogs will recover in a few days after veterinary treatment,” said Dr. Dan O’Neill, Associate Professor of Companion Animal Epidemiology at RVC and co-author of the study.In most cases, diarrhea isn’t a medical emergency, although it may start to feel like it after you had to take your dog outside to poop for a third time in less than an hour. Even if your dog seems like their usual self, minus the diarrhea, book an appointment with your vet. With a simple treatment, your pup will be back to its usual pooping schedule before you know it. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

New Treatment Offers Hope for Dogs with Herniated Disks

If your dog suddenly yelps for no reason, starts limping, or, worst of all, begins dragging their back legs, your mind goes straight to panic mode. You Google, you call the vet, and the word surgery comes up faster than you can say “walkies.” It’s terrifying, and not just for your dog. But there’s something new stirring hope at Texas A&M University: a promising clinical trial using a special enzyme injection to treat herniated disks in dogs. No surgery. No long hospital stays. Just a targeted injection and the potential for a new chance at life.“This could change how we treat spinal injuries in dogs,” says Dr. Nick Jeffery, the neurologist leading the study at Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine. “We’re using a naturally derived enzyme to dissolve the herniated material that’s pressing on the spinal cord. It’s quick, minimally invasive, and so far, the results have exceeded expectations.”Herniated disks, technically known as intervertebral disk disease, or IVDD, are heartbreakingly common, especially in small breeds with long backs: think dachshunds, beagles, French bulldogs, and corgis. One wrong jump off the couch, and suddenly your happy-go-lucky pup can’t walk, can’t stand, and might be in serious pain.Traditionally, surgery has been the only real option. But it’s costly, carries risks, and recovery can be rough. Not every dog is a good surgical candidate, and not every family can pay a multi-thousand-dollar vet bill, even if they desperately want to.That’s where this trial comes in, and it already has promising results.Oscar, a five-year-old dachshund, is living proof. One morning, he just couldn’t walk. “He tried to get up and collapsed,” recalls his owner, Ashley. “He looked confused and scared, and I was a wreck.” Her vet referred her to Texas A&M just in time. Oscar received the enzyme injection less than 48 hours after his symptoms began, and within days, he was wagging again.According to the study, which involved 54 small-breed dogs, the success rate has been remarkable. Nearly all the dogs who still had feeling in their back legs recovered mobility quickly. Even a few with more severe symptoms showed significant improvement. And so far, no dog has experienced any major side effects.Of course, there are caveats. Timing is everything; dogs need to receive the injection within about three days of symptoms showing up. The trial is currently limited to small dogs, and it’s only happening at Texas A&M’s teaching hospital for now. But if the results continue to be this strong, there’s real potential for wider availability in the near future.“It’s not a magic fix, but it’s the closest thing we’ve seen,” Dr. Jeffery says. “We want owners to know that if their dog shows signs of back pain or weakness, time matters. Getting to a vet right away can make the difference between a simple injection and a much more complicated road.”The treatment, called chondroitinase injection therapy, works by dissolving the gel-like center of the slipped disk that’s putting pressure on the spinal cord. Think of it like deflating a balloon that’s gotten stuck in the wrong place. Once the pressure is off, the spinal cord can start to recover, and so can the dog.And while it’s still early days, the results are exciting. Less invasive care, lower costs, shorter recovery time, and a whole lot less trauma for everyone involved. For dog lovers, that’s huge.For now, the team at Texas A&M continues its work, hoping to expand access and gather more data. But the message for pet parents is clear: if something’s off, don’t wait. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Dog Stick Libraries... They Really Are a Thing

For stick-loving dogs, the opportunity to pick his favorite size, shape, and weight of timber, is bringing the fun back to leash-free parks.

Simple Fire Safety Tips That Could Save Your Pet’s Life

It’s something no pet owner ever wants to think about, but house fires happen fast, and when they do, our pets rely entirely on us to get them out safely. While most families have some fire escape plan, very few account for the animals in the house. Just ask Melissa Carter, a dog mom of three from Asheville, North Carolina. “A few years ago, we had a kitchen fire while I was at work,” she said. “Thankfully, it was put out quickly, but I kept thinking—if it had spread, what would’ve happened to my dogs? That’s when I realized we had no plan.” According to the American Red Cross, more than 500,000 pets are affected by house fires each year. And while many fires are unpredictable, some are started by pets - accidentally turning on stovetops or knocking over candles. Here’s how pet owners can lower the risk and be ready in case the unthinkable happens. No Open Flames Around Curious Paws Candles, fireplaces, and stovetops are major hazards in homes with pets, especially with curious cats and counter-surfing dogs. “I had a cat once who jumped on the stove and turned the burner on,” said Dr. Hannah Lane, a veterinarian in Portland, Oregon. “Luckily, I smelled the gas in time. After that, I bought knob covers and switched to battery candles.”Many fire departments also recommend using flameless candles, especially in households with pets left alone during the day.Keep Leashes, Carriers, and ID Tags HandyIf you have to evacuate in a hurry, scrambling to find your pet’s leash or carrier wastes precious seconds. Store them near the exit, along with a go-bag that includes food, water, and medication.“During wildfires in California, we saw a lot of people trying to carry dogs in their arms because they couldn’t find leashes,” said firefighter and pet safety advocate Jason McBride. “A little preparation goes a long way.”Microchipping your pet and keeping ID tags up to date is essential. If a frightened dog bolts or a cat slips out during an evacuation, this is what helps bring them home.Pet Alert Stickers Can Make a Big DifferenceYou’ve probably seen those little “Pet Inside” stickers on windows and doors. They’re not just for show; emergency responders really do look for them.“We always check the entryways for pet alert decals,” said firefighter Laura Kim from Denver, Colorado. “If we know there’s a dog or cat inside, we’ll do everything we can to get them out.”These stickers are inexpensive, and many shelters and vet offices offer them for free.Include Pets in Your Escape PlanEvery household should have a fire escape plan, but make sure it includes your pets. Assign one person to be responsible for each pet, and do occasional practice runs so animals don’t panic when it counts.“We’ve trained our dog Rufus to go to the door when the smoke alarm goes off,” said Marcus Hill from Austin, Texas. “It’s not perfect, but he knows something’s up when he hears it.”If your pets tend to hide when frightened, try to identify their go-to hiding spots and keep them accessible.When You’re Not HomeMany fires happen while owners are away, which makes it even more important to minimize risk. Unplug small appliances, keep doors closed to limit your pet’s roaming, and consider using smart smoke detectors that can alert you remotely.“I check our pet cam during my lunch break,” said Melissa. “It’s saved my sanity more than once.” In the end, it’s not about being paranoid, it’s about being prepared. A few simple steps today could be the reason your pet makes it out tomorrow. And for most of us, that’s more than enough reason to act.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can Heating Pads Be The Right Solution for Your Aging Pet? Yes!

More Pets Are Being Diagnosed with Anxiety

Trupanion, a well-known pet insurance provider, released information regarding anxiety in pets, and it’s quite surprising. They analyzed data associated with claims related to anxiety from 2019 to 2024, and discovered that anxiety is apparently on the rise among pets in the United States. Here’s a breakdown of what they found, including which states seem to have the highest number of pets with anxiety.

Is a Guinea Pig or a Bunny Rabbit the Best Pet Choice for You?

Choosing a small pet can be a rewarding yet challenging decision, especially when the contenders are as adorable and charming as guinea pigs and bunny rabbits. While both animals can make delightful companions, their care requirements, behavior, and lifestyles differ significantly. So, which one is the best fit for you? Let's break it down.

Chubby Rescue Cat Arrives at Shelter ‘Too Large’ for the Scale

As a volunteer in the rescue space, you see many things – the heartwarming reunions, the shy pets slowly coming out of their shells, and sometimes, the cases that really make you pause. When Big Bertha arrived at Jefferson County Humane Society in late February, she was definitely one of those cases. Even for a seasoned volunteer who has seen animals in various states of health, the sheer size of this sweet girl was startling! This wasn’t just a chunky feline; Bertha, with her petite frame and short legs, weighed in at a shocking 21 pounds – so large, in fact, that the standard cat scale at the shelter couldn’t even register her weight. They had to resort to the dog scale to get an initial reading. Upon arrival, it was clear that Bertha was facing many health issues directly linked to her size. The shelter’s vet team immediately got to work on creating a carefully managed weight loss plan that included specialized wound care and a gentle exercise regimen. In the early days of her workouts, she would be aided by a sling to support her movement, allowing her to burn calories without putting too much strain on her petite frame. The road to recovery was expected to be long, but the entire shelter team fell in love with Bertha, committing to do the work necessary to help her regain her health and quality of life. Bertha’s previous owner made the difficult decision to surrender her to the shelter, recognizing their inability to provide the necessary care, especially the extensive veterinary attention she clearly needed. “Her mouth was full of infected, loose, broken teeth,” explained Brandi DeNoon-Damewood, the development manager at the shelter. “Most kitties with teeth this bad are very thin from lack of appetite and pain with chewing. However, Bertha only ate soft/canned food that she could easily slurp down, and as her pain increased, she ate more and more – just like humans, kitties can become addicted to the happy feeling we get with a full belly. It is believed that she was a street kitty prior to her owner, which also helps shed a little light onto her food guarding and overeating. She may have gone days without any food whatsoever, and those days are forever carried with her throughout the rest of her life.” A significant step in Bertha’s journey was dental surgery shortly after her arrival. This addressed her painful mouth, not only for her comfort but also paved the way for a healthier relationship with food. Initially, Bertha struggled with breathing and mobility due to her weight, and she was understandably quiet and fearful. However, as the pounds began to come off, a beautiful transformation occurred. “She LOVES to ‘talk,’ and when she wants attention, she will call out for you to come over to her,” DeNoon-Damewood shared, noting that this vocalization was likely a learned behavior that she developed due to her limited mobility. “Her purrrrsonality has blossomed into a vibrant, social, loving kitty.” By the end of March, Bertha had reached a significant milestone, weighing in at 16 pounds. While she still had more weight to lose, this progress meant she was ready to take the next step in her journey – finding a forever home. At the beginning of April, she was adopted by a loving individual committed to continuing her weight loss journey and providing her with a lifetime of love and care. Bertha’s story is a powerful reminder of the complex factors that can lead to a pet being surrendered and the importance of shelters and rescue organizations for those in need. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

China's Latest Bomb Sniffing Dynamo Comes Up a Little Short

New Corgi recruit is sniffing out more than bombs as he snatches food while out on patrol.

My Dog Broke A Nail, Now What?

Seeing your pup showing signs of pain is never easy, and the sight of blood can be particularly alarming. While a broken nail may not seem like a major source of alarm, that one small injury can introduce a lot of discomfort (and blood). But take a deep breath; you’re not alone in facing this common struggle.This blog post is designed to be an informative guide, walking you through the essential steps to take when your dog breaks a nail to relieve pain and prevent further complications. With the proper knowledge and a little care, most broken nail situations can be managed effectively, allowing your pup to get back on their paws in no time.First Aid for Dog Nail Injuries When you discover your dog has broken a nail, remain calm. Your dog may be in pain and feeling anxious. By staying calm and composed, you will help prevent further distress and avoid a possible accidental injury to you. Speak in a soothing voice and move slowly. If your dog is particularly sensitive to pain or tends to react defensively when hurt, you may wish to enlist the help of another person to gently restrain them. In situations where you’re concerned about being bitten, having a properly fitted muzzle on hand can ensure everyone stays safe while you administer first aid. Stop the BleedingBroken nails often bleed because they contain a blood vessel known as the quick. You'll likely see some blood if the break occurs above this point. The first step in managing this injury is to stop the bleeding quickly. When dealing with any type of bleeding, your first line of defense is to apply direct pressure. Use a clean cloth or a piece of gauze and firmly press it against the bleeding nail for several minutes, often longer than you may initially think. Resist the temptation to check frequently, as removing the pressure can disrupt the clotting process. For persistent bleeding, styptic powder or a styptic pencil is an effective solution. We ensure we always have at least one of the two in our pet-friendly first aid kit. Styptic powder contains ingredients that help constrict blood vessels and promote clotting. To use it, apply a small amount directly to the bleeding area of the nail. A styptic pencil works similarly; wet the tip slightly to activate it and gently press it against the bleeding directly. If you don’t have styptic powder or a pencil on hand, some common alternatives that dog parents will reach for are cornstarch and flour. They can help absorb blood and encourage clotting. The easiest way to use these is to put some into a small container and then place the broken nail in it, maintaining pressure to give the blood time to clot. Remember, patience is key during this step; the bleeding may take several minutes to stop. Assessing the Damage Look closely at the broken nail once the bleeding has stopped or significantly slowed. Is it a clean break near the tip? Is it a partial tear that’s still attached? Is the quick exposed, leaving a raw and sensitive area? Take note of any visible debris, such as dirt, splinters, or fragments of the nail itself. Your findings will help you decide on the best course of action to prevent further damage and whether you need to contact your vet. Initial Cleaning (If Possible and Safe)If your dog tolerates examining their paw and the bleeding is under control, you may be able to gently clean the area. Use lukewarm water to carefully rinse the paw and the broken nail. This can help to remove any loose dirt or debris that may be there. Avoid using any harsh antiseptics like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol at this stage, as they can be irritating to the exposed injury and potentially delay healing. The goal of this initial cleaning is simply to remove any obvious dirt that could contribute to further pain and discomfort. Your vet can do a more thorough cleaning if necessary. Understanding the Risks of Dog Nail Injuries While the immediate sight of blood from a broken nail can be alarming, the potential risks extend beyond this initial shock. Here are a few additional risks to be aware of: Pain and DiscomfortEven if you manage to stop the bleeding quickly, your dog can still experience significant pain and discomfort. The nail bed contains sensitive nerve endings, and a break, especially if it leaves the quick exposed, can create a very painful situation for your pup. Every time your dog puts pressure on the affected paw, they may feel a sharp or throbbing pain, leading to limping or a reluctance to walk or put weight on that leg. InfectionA break in the nail creates an open wound, providing an entry point for bacteria and fungal organisms that they may encounter in the environment. Simple things like walking on the ground, contact with dirt and debris, or even your dog’s own licking can introduce pathogens into the wound. Recognizing the signs of infection is crucial to addressing it as quickly as possible. Keep an eye out for the following red flags: Redness Swelling around the nail bedPus or discharge Increased pain or sensitivityWarmth to the touch Fever Lethargy Partially Broken Nails A partially broken nail poses its own set of risks to your pup. The jagged edge can easily catch on carpets, furniture, or outdoor surfaces, leading to further tearing of the nail and increased pain for your dog. Ongoing Irritation of the AreaThe irritation and discomfort can also trigger excessive licking or chewing at the affected paw. While your dog may be trying to soothe their pain, this behavior can make the problem worse by introducing more bacteria and potentially leading to self-inflicted wounds around the paw. Mobility Concerns In more severe cases, a broken nail can significantly impact your dog’s mobility. The pain and discomfort can make it difficult for them to engage in their usual activities, such as walking, running, and playing. This not only impacts their physical well-being but can also negatively impact their overall happiness and quality of life. Imagine being a high-energy dog who no longer has a safe outlet for all that energy.

How to Cat-Proof Your Home

Cats are known for knocking things off shelves and getting themselves trapped in nooks and crannies, so if you have kitties, you need to cat-proof your home. That’s right, in addition to kitten-proofing your rooms, you need to consider how your adult cats could potentially hurt themselves, too.