Can You Leash and Harness Train a Rabbit?

Can You Potty Train a Rabbit?

Over the years, rabbits have become an increasingly popular pet for apartment dwellers. Many owners recognized their potential and their wonderful traits and welcomed bunnies into their lives. And it’s no secret that rabbits are truly wonderful as pets, with their calm temperament but fun and cuddly personalities. However, one question always interests any would-be bunny owner: can you potty train a rabbit? Most people fear bunnies will poop all over their home and that they’re unable to learn how to use a litter box – but that doesn’t have to be the case with your pet. Here’s what you need to know about a bunny’s toilet habits before adopting one.Can You Potty Train a Rabbit?Well, we are definitely glad to put some minds at ease, because yes, it is possible to potty train a rabbit. However, it may require some patience and consistency. After all, these are intelligent animals like all other pets, and with some patient work, you can teach them quite a few things.Still, before you begin your pet’s potty training journey, there are a few things to know, and a few steps to stick to. Let’s go over them in more detail. Prepare a litter box: Well, it goes without saying that a bunny needs their own “bathroom” aka a litter box. First, select a litter box that is appropriate for the size of your rabbit. Bunnies come in all shapes and sizes, so choose accordingly. You can use a small cat litter box or a specialized rabbit litter box. Make sure it's easy for your rabbit to access if you’re not opting for rabbit-specific designs.Choose the right litter: 

At What Age Should I Start Socializing My Dog?

Socialization is one of the most critical aspects of raising a well-adjusted and confident dog. Proper socialization helps prevent fear, anxiety, and aggression while fostering positive interactions with people, other animals, and new environments. But when is the right time to start? The short answer: as early as possible. However, different stages of a dog’s life require different approaches. Here’s what you need to know.The Critical Socialization Period: 3 to 16 WeeksPuppyhood is the optimal time for socialization. Puppies go through a crucial developmental window between 3 and 16 weeks of age, during which they are most receptive to new experiences. Exposing them to various sights, sounds, and situations during this period helps them grow into well-mannered adult dogs.When to BeginThe American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) recommends starting socialization as early as 7 to 8 weeks old, even before full vaccination. However, exposure must be done in safe, controlled environments to minimize health risks. Structured puppy classes, playdates with fully vaccinated dogs, and supervised outings can be excellent ways to introduce new experiences safely.Effective Socialization StrategiesSuccessful socialization involves controlled, positive exposure to a wide variety of experiences. Here’s how you can help your puppy develop confidence:Introduce New People: Expose your puppy to people of different ages, appearances, and voices. This helps prevent fear of strangers later in life.Expose to Different Environments: Take your puppy to pet-friendly locations, parks, and sidewalks. Introduce them to common sounds such as traffic, doorbells, and household appliances.Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward calm and friendly behavior with treats and praise. This creates positive associations with new experiences.Organize Puppy Playdates: Arrange supervised play sessions with vaccinated puppies or well-behaved adult dogs to encourage good social behavior.Introduce Different Surfaces and Objects: Let your puppy walk on different textures like grass, pavement, sand, and carpet. Exposure to unusual objects such as umbrellas, bicycles, and strollers can help prevent fear reactions in the future.Acclimate to Handling: Regularly touch your puppy’s paws, ears, and mouth to prepare them for grooming and veterinary visits. Reward them for remaining calm during handling exercises.

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

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

Cat Breeds That Actually Like Water

Cats have a reputation for not liking water and avoiding getting wet. But there are several cat breeds that actually love water, don’t mind getting wet, and will even go swimming without a complaint. Of course, every cat is an individual, so even among breeds that are generally known for liking water, you might find kitties who aren’t fans of doing anything other than drinking it. If you’re interested in bringing home a cat who likes water, here’s a list of some of the breeds that you can consider.

Does Your Cat Need a Vitamin Supplement?

(photo credit: Natureveryday / shutterstock.com)Is it because we consider cats to be so self-sufficient that we don’t stop to consider whether their diets are nutritionally balanced? I’ve always had cats and most have lived well into their very late teens. So, I figured kibble, some treats, and a splash of tinned tuna from time to time was enough to keep them happy and more importantly, healthy.Truth is, they’re not unlike humans when it comes to aging. When they’re young they need certain vitamins and minerals to grow. And with a complete and balanced diet, your pet maintains a shiny coat and healthy skin. They also experience strong bones, proper digestion and a robust immune system to ward off illness.This is why it’s so important for raising a healthy pet, to start checking food labels and update their dry and wet food options as they move from kittenhood to adulthood and ultimately senior status. By simply adapting their diet as their physical needs change, you can help stave off issues like kidney disease in seniors or obesity in adult cats that can ultimately impact mobility and quality of life. Also, as they age, they need a little extra help when it comes to maintaining gut health for optimal digestion and absorption of nutrients.This is where adding supplements can help your pet live their best life.Let’s start with what cats require daily. In a nutshell, your cat needs protein, fat, carbs, minerals, vitamins, and, of course, water. Now, most top-quality pet foods deliver a good range of the nutrients necessary to maintain a healthy life. The caveat is, that not all cats are the same. And not all require the same pre-determined level of vitamins and minerals found in today's commercial pet foods. Some need much more.For senior felines, you may want to add not only joint supplements and probiotics but also immune boosters and cognitive supplements that support brain function and memory. Those include omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B6, B9, and B12, and ginkgo biloba.If your cat is younger but a picky eater, it may be lacking vitamins like B2 that help produce red blood cells, support the nervous system and help produce antibodies to fight infections. Or they may be shy of important nutrients like the calcium that comes from dairy products, bone meal, or organ meats your pet may not want to eat.

Air Travel Planned? Check Out These Top, Airline-Approved Pet Carriers

Participants Needed for First-Ever Global Cat IQ Study

Have you ever wondered just how smart your cat truly is? Do you wonder if their personality reflects their breed or coat type (tortie parents, I’m looking at you)? Now, you can learn more about your best friend while contributing to groundbreaking research that aims to answer that very question!Researchers at the University of Maine at Farmington’s Maine Cat Lab are conducting the first-ever international study of cat intelligence, and they’re looking for cat parents like you to participate.This one-of-a-kind study, led by psychology professor Karol Maybury and university library manager Bryce Cundick, seeks to better understand cat personalities and smarts on a global scale. Unlike dogs, which have been the subject of numerous intelligence studies, cats have been largely overlooked in this area.“We wanted to see, could we take the same metric that we use or people personality,” Cundick explained. “Does it translate over to cat personality?”The current phase of the study involves a 10-item online questionnaire that explores different aspects of your cat’s intelligence, including memory, problem-solving, attention span, emotional intelligence, and gained knowledge. Pet parents are asked to evaluate their cats’ behaviors through a series of questions, and in return, they will receive an IQ score between 7 and 70, which then sorts your cat into one of six tiers:Tier 1: The Cheshire Cat Dreamer (7-19Tier 2: The Garfield Gourmand (20-32)Tier 3: The Tom Tactician (33-45)Tier 4: The Bagheera Sleuth (46-55)Tier 5: The Felix Forecaster (56-65)Tier 6: The McGonagall Mastermind (66-70)So far, the researchers have gathered over 5000 responses from cat owners worldwide. Among them were Ryan Ham and his fiancé Hannah Gagnon, who participated with their Ragdoll, Gobi.“My cat’s IQ score is 35. ‘Persistent and crafty, these cats are like Tom from “Tom and Jerry.” While their plans don’t always work out, their sheer determination and ability to think on their paws make them formidable,’” Ham read from the survey results, recognizing Gobi in the description.

Streetcar Riders Work Together To Save a Cat in Toronto

When a cat ran under a streetcar in Toronto, Canada, a group of passengers worked together to help her owner rescue her.

New Study Reveals Having A Big Brain Doesn’t Mean Your Dog is Smart

We often associate larger brains with greater intelligence, but a recent study challenges this assumption in our canine companions. The study, published November 13 th in the journal Biology Letters, aimed to explore whether there was any tangible connection between the physical size of a dog’s brain and their mental capabilities. The results suggest we may want to reconsider this common stereotype, at least where dogs are concerned. The idea isn’t entirely out of left field. Previous studies have found that in many mammals, a direct correlation has been found between bigger brains and higher survival odds due to their capacity to effectively process information and make better decisions. Considering this, the findings of the new study surprised many. “The key difference here is that dogs are not in a natural environment,” explained Ana Balcarcel, lead author of the new study. “They are a function of artificial selection… a very directed selection, evolution under human hands.” Researchers compared 14 behavioral traits from the Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire and the relative brain-to-skull size of 1682 dog skulls covering 172 breeds housed at the Natural History Museum Bern in Switzerland. They found several patterns, but these patterns went against our previous understanding. Dog breeds known to be most trainable and intelligent, like working dogs bred to perform complex skills, were found to have the smallest relative brain size. This included dog breeds most likely to excel in human-assistance roles, like guide dogs, police dogs, and those involved with search-and-rescue. Meanwhile, toy dog breeds bred mainly to serve as companions, like Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Yorkshire Terriers, were found to have larger relative brain sizes. Statistically, these breeds are also more likely to exhibit higher levels of fear, aggression, and separation anxiety. The most interesting thing about this for many researchers is that we, as a society, didn’t just choose breeds that were best suited for these working roles (which happened to have smaller brain ratios). Instead, over generations, they have been bred to be trainable, independent, and better at problem-solving. “We can say that we have really altered the brains – not just the body sizes and the proportions of different dogs, but it looks like we have also changed their brains in a significant way,” stated Balcarcel. Interestingly enough, the difference in brain size may also reflect our impact on the dogs through domestication. The study revealed that the brain of the average domesticated dog is approximately 20% smaller than that of a wild gray wolf relative to body size. However, domesticated dogs must understand and operate with higher social skills than wild dogs. Consider the unique skills your dog demonstrates daily, regardless of their breed. Domesticated dogs are expected to learn how to interpret our gaze, body language, and many verbal commands just to live as a family dog. Moving forward, the research team plans to dig further into the comparison between various dog breeds physically and their function by analyzing other physical differences, like the shape of specific parts of the brain. We’re excited to follow along and learn more about how this information could influence dog training and behavior as we know it! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

China's Puppy Mountain Pix Go Viral

Resting pooch by Yangtze River draws pet loving tourists.

Help! My Dog is Aggressive Over Toys! What Now?

Is your once-playful pup turning into a snarling toy hoarder? Do they become possessive anytime your family or other pets come near their favorite squeaky toy?Dog aggression over toys can range from mild guarding to full-blown attacks. It’s a common problem – one that can be frustrating and sometimes scary to experience. The best thing you can do for your furry friend is to tackle the issue as soon as you notice the first signs of trouble.In this guide, I’ll share tips and tricks to turn your toy-obsessed pup into a more social and relaxed companion. It’s not easy and won’t be solved overnight, but it is possible!Understanding Resource GuardingResource guarding is a common behavior that many dog parents struggle with. It happens when a dog protects a resource they see as valuable from a perceived threat. This is a deeply rooted survival instinct, ensuring they have access to the resources needed to meet their basic needs. While this describes the reason for the behavior, it can become problematic if it escalates to aggression.Common triggers for resource guarding include food, toys, bones, bedding, and specific locations within the home. Dogs may also guard people, especially “their person.”The intensity of resource guarding can vary wildly. Some dogs will exhibit mild displays of possessiveness. Mild resource guarding may involve growling, snapping, or posturing when a person or other animal approaches the resource.However, others will display severe aggression to protect what they see as theirs. This can involve aggressive biting and can pose a serious risk to others. Recognizing the signs of resource guarding and taking appropriate steps to address the issue before it escalates is crucial.Preventing and Managing Toy AggressionOnce you have identified that your dog is exhibiting toy aggression, it’s time to take proactive steps to prevent and manage this behavior. After all, we all want to create a safe and happy living environment for our dogs and the rest of the family. The earlier you address the issue, the easier it will be to modify your dog’s behavior.In the following sections, I’ll offer strategies and techniques to help you prevent and manage toy aggression that I have learned over my many years fostering rescue dogs. By understanding the underlying reasons for this behavior, managing the behavior to prevent trouble short-term, and training for long-term success, you can effectively address this common problem.Early Socialization and TrainingOne of the most effective ways to prevent resource guarding is through early socialization and training, which is excellent news if you’re bringing a young puppy home!Expose your young pup to various people, animals, and environments from a young age. This will help them develop positive associations with different triggers and situations, ultimately reducing their fear and anxiety. It will help them be more comfortable in unknown situations instead of making them feel like they have to step up and protect themselves and their treasured belongings.Positive Reinforcement TechniquesChoosing the right approach to training is almost as important as the training process itself. Positive reinforcement is a powerful training method that rewards desired behaviors and creates positive associations.When your dog displays calm and relaxed behavior around their toys, reward them with treats, praise, or playtime. In time, your dog will begin associating sharing with positive things, reducing the likelihood of aggressive behavior.Why specifically positive reinforcement? Punishing or scolding your dog for guarding their toys can escalate their anxiety, making the problem worse.Basic Obedience CommandsIn addition to focusing on training specifically related to your dog’s resource guarding behaviors, you should continue working on obedience training. Many basic commands, such as “drop it” and “leave it,” will help you manage these situations.Throughout this training, the goal is to convince your dog to trade for something better. Practice these commands regularly, starting with having your dog leave low-value items in exchange for treats. As they show they are more willing to make the trade, gradually progress to higher-value items like toys.You can effectively prevent and manage their resource guarding by teaching your dog to hand over or drop items on cue.Desensitization and CounterconditioningAn extension of your dog’s training, desensitization and counterconditioning are powerful techniques used to help your dog overcome their fear and anxiety. As these feelings can trigger resource guarding or make a situation involving resource guarding even worse, they are important to acknowledge and address.If you have a dog who can share with others in some situations and not others, you will need to find the reason why. If your dog is in a situation where they are feeling fearful, they are more likely to try to feel the need to protect their belongings.  These techniques involve gradually exposing your dog to their triggers while maintaining a calm and relaxed environment. These exposures are paired with positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, to create positive associations and teach them that the trigger does not need to be feared.For example, if you have a small dog afraid of large dogs, you may start by standing across a field from larger dogs while rewarding your dog for staying calm. Over time, you can slowly close the gap between them while praising and rewarding them for calm behavior. Eventually, your dog will be able to be close to larger dogs without feeling nervous or afraid because the emotions they feel when seeing them have been rewired – feeling excitement for the rewards they know they will receive instead of fear.When you have successfully worked through this process, your dog will no longer feel the need to guard their toys just because a larger dog comes near.Try Calming Products to Reduce Anxiety For dogs who experience heightened anxiety or stress, calming products can help them feel more relaxed temporarily while you work toward a longer-term solution. Calming treats infused with natural ingredients like chamomile or valerian root can help soothe your dog and promote relaxation. Another option is to use pheromone diffusers or sprays to mimic the calming pheromones that dogs naturally produce. These chemical signals tell the brain they are safe and secure, helping them feel calmer and relaxed in their surroundings. This can help prevent situations from escalating into something serious. For more severe cases of anxiety, I recommend consulting with your veterinarian about the potential benefits of CBD products specifically formulated for dogs.

Cat Reunited with Owner Two Months After LA Wildfires

The LA wildfires in California were devastating not only because so many people lost their homes, but also because many people lost their pets. But there have been a lot of beautiful rescue and reunion stories in the months since the fires happened, and the story of Aggie the cat is one of them.

How Long Can You Leave a Labradoodle Alone?

Labradoodles – an adorable mix of Poodles and Labrador Retrievers – are renowned for their affectionate, playful, and energetic nature. These intelligent, social dogs thrive on companionship, making them less suited to long periods of solitude. If you’re considering adding a Labradoodle to your family, it’s essential to understand how long they can comfortably be left alone – and how to meet their needs while you’re away.How Long Can You Leave a Labradoodle Alone?Several factors determine how well a Labradoodle can handle alone time, including their age, training, and individual temperament. With the right preparation and understanding, you can ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy, even when you’re not home.Alone Time by AgePuppies (Up to 6 Months)Labradoodle puppies require constant care, attention, and socialization. With tiny bladders and boundless energy, they need frequent potty breaks, playtime, and interaction. Puppies should not be left alone for more than 2–3 hours at a time. To keep them comfortable, provide a cozy bed and their favorite toy to entertain or comfort them during short absences.

How Do I Safely Introduce My Dog to Other Dogs?

Most dogs are social butterflies, wagging their tails with excitement to meet new friends. But just like us, some pups are a little shy or need extra time to warm up. Introducing your dog to a new furry companion can be exciting, but it’s also a situation that requires care and patience. Done right, these introductions can boost your dog’s confidence and help them build healthy relationships. Here’s your guide to making those first meetings safe and stress-free for everyoneinvolved.Know Your Dog’s PersonalityBefore planning any doggy meet-and-greet, take a good look at your pup’s personality and past behavior around other dogs. Some dogs are naturally outgoing, while others might be timid or uncertain.If your dog hasn’t had much exposure to other animals or shows signs of aggression (growling, barking, or lunging), it’s wise to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for guidance. Knowing your dog’s comfort zone will help you plan ahead and set them up for success.Pick the Perfect SpotWhere the introduction happens can make a big difference. Neutral territory is key—somewhere neither dog feels they need to "defend their turf." Avoid meeting at home or in your yard, as territorial instincts could kick in.Instead, opt for a park, quiet street, or any open, low-distraction space. Look for a spot where both dogs can move freely without feeling cramped. It should also be safe and secure, with minimal traffic or other potential stressors.Leash Up (But Keep It Chill)Both dogs should be leashed for their first meeting, but here’s a pro tip: don’t keep the leash too tight. A taut leash can make your dog feel anxious and restricted, sending the wrong vibes.

Spring Cleaning Tips for Pet Parents

Spring is a season of renewal, so it’s the perfect time to do some cleaning around the house to freshen things up, get rid of things you no longer need, and make space for new things. But if you share your home with pets, it’s important to take a few steps to ensure their well-being while you do your spring cleaning. Check out the information below to see how spring cleaning could potentially have adverse effects on pets, and what you can do to keep everyone happy.

Help! My Cat Stopped Eating

Have you recently noticed your cat, usually a bottomless pit, suddenly turning up their nose at their food dish? Whether it’s a sudden disinterest in their usual meal or a complete aversion to food, a change in your cat’s appetite could be a serious cause for concern.A decrease in appetite may be the result of several factors, ranging from a minor inconvenience or change in taste (they can grow tired of their food, too) to a serious medical condition. The first step to fixing the situation is to figure out the root cause.This post will look at some of the most common reasons a cat may stop eating, offer tips and tricks to encourage them to eat again, and help you decide when you should seek professional help from your veterinarian. Remember, if this is a sign of an underlying illness, early intervention is key!Let’s help your kitty get their appetite back!Why is My Cat Not Eating?Understanding the cause of your cat’s loss of appetite is the first step in determining the best course of action, whether it can be handled at home or calls for a trip to the vet. While occasional picky eating is normal for some cats (my girl Pippen goes through phases), an ongoing, persistent disinterest in their food may be a red flag for a more serious underlying medical issue.Here are a few of the more common reasons a cat may have stopped eating:Illness or DiseaseLike with people, several illnesses, diseases, and medical conditions could significantly impact your cat’s appetite. After all, if you’re not feeling well, eating can often make that feeling worse in the short term.Some possible explanations for the change include:Nausea is a common side effect of many cat-related illnesses.Upper respiratory infections can cause nasal congestion and pressure, making eating uncomfortable. Dental problems like tooth decay, cavities, or abscesses can lead to pain and difficulty chewing.Chronic illnesses like kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, and diabetes may disrupt your cat’s normal body functions, impacting their appetite.PainAnother potential medical-related reason for your cat not wanting to eat - Pain (whether acute or chronic) can leave your best friend feeling “off.” Injuries, arthritis, and other painful conditions can make movement uncomfortable, including chewing or even bending down to reach into their food dish. It can also cause a decrease in their overall activity level, meaning they don’t need to eat as much to keep up with the calories they’re burning. Cats are masters at hiding pain. We, as cat parents, need to be on the look out for any signs of discomfort, such as reluctance to jump, difficulty grooming, or changes in the normal behavior.Stress and AnxietyCats are very sensitive creatures, and even the smallest changes in their environment can cause stress and anxiety. Introducing a new pet, the arrival of a new baby, moving to a new home, or even loud noises like fireworks or home renovations can disrupt their sense of security and lead to a loss of appetite.In addition to appetite changes, signs of trouble to look out for include hiding, excessive grooming, uncharacteristic aggression, or changes in their litter box habits (aka “accidents”).How to Encourage Your Cat to Eat (Home Remedies)So, you’ve noticed your cat isn’t eating or eating less than usual. Now what? What can you do to support your cat’s appetite?While a veterinary consultation should also be your first step, there are several things you can do at home while you wait for your scheduled appointment. Once you’ve consulted with your vet, they can guide you on the best course of action, including any at-home maintenance care. Here are some strategies to help support your cat’s well-being in addition to their professional veterinary care:Food TemptationMaking your cat’s food more appealing can sometimes do the trick, enticing them to push past whatever is causing them to resist eating. Warming their food slightly can sometimes do the trick. You can also try experimenting with different textures. Some cats prefer wet food, while others enjoy a dry kibble or pate.Offering new or tempting protein sources, like cooked chicken, flaked tuna (in water, not oil), or salmon, can help to pique their interest.If your cat’s food isn’t tempting enough, consider using a food topper to add interest to their meal. There are many options, ranging from hydration options like bone broth to more traditional food toppers like freeze-dried proteins. But be sure to check with your vet before making any changes to your cat’s diet.Try Fresh Human FoodsMany cats will turn their nose up at cat food only to be tempted by human foods. Of course, this means familiarizing yourself with the foods that can be given to your cat safely.Some options you may want to consider to spark your cat’s appetite include:SardinesTuna or salmon (fresh or canned in water, not oil)BeefChicken or turkeyEggs, especially egg whitesPumpkin pureeBroccoliGreen beansGreen peasCarrotsSpinachAny cooked foods should be unseasoned. Most common seasoning options are unsafe or even toxic for our cats.Pay careful attention if your cat is trying to eat things they shouldn’t, like your house plants. While it’s great that they are eating something, their chosen snack could prove to be toxic and lead to other serious problems.Create a Comfortable Eating EnvironmentTry reassessing not only what your cat is eating but where they are eating. Are there elements of your cat’s eating environment that are significantly impacting their appetite? Make sure your cat’s dish is placed in a quiet location where they can eat undisturbed, away from high-traffic areas of your home or the competition of other pets.What about your cat’s food dish? Consider experimenting with different food dishes, like a more shallow dish to prevent whisker fatigue, or a different material, like ceramic instead of stainless steel.How often are you cleaning your cat’s food dish? An unclean dish could turn your cat off from eating entirely. Keep their dishes clean and placed at a comfortable height for their size.Reduce StressHigh stress levels can be a major appetite killer. Try to minimize any potential causes of stress or anxiety in your cat’s environment. Pay attention to any triggers that could upset your cat, like overwhelming smells or sounds.You can also reduce your cat’s stress levels by providing mental stimulation. Ensure they have plenty of environmental enrichment in your home, such as scratch posts, cat trees, cat shelves, and interactive toys. Additionally, you may wish to consider calming aids, like Feliway diffusers, but consult with your veterinarian first.

Chatty Catty? What Drives those Chirpy Vocalizations?

Instinctive yet entertaining, why some feline's love to chatter away.

It's Muddy Paw Season! Are You Ready?

(photo credit: FoodFocus / shutterstock.com)One of the true rites of passage to being a dog owner is dealing with muddy paws. During the pandemic, I was glued to the myriad designer shows that were streaming on every network. And I think I may have drooled a little as I watched them stroll through those renovated homes that now featured mud rooms and something that’s I considered totally OTT - dog washing stations. I mean it’s really just a hand-held showerhead that you use to hose off muddy feet before they go racing through the house, across the carpets and onto the furniture. But what a concept – cleaning your dog’s paws before he enters the house.With three dogs and an amazing 19-acre leash-free park just a five-minute drive away, we enjoy having the room to roam during all four seasons. And because that includes those mushy snow thaws and spring showers, we’re talking mud. And lots of it. I’ve tried bringing damp towels to clean off dirty feet as well as those pre-moistened baby wipes that a fellow pet parent once suggested. Neither was enough to make a dent in the dirt.