Cat Dies from Bird Flu, Raw Pet Food Recalled

New Screening Tool Can Predict Imminent Pet Mortality

Developed to help guide health care in senior pets, it raises the question of whether we really want to know.

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.”

Expert Shares Tips on How to Exercise Your Dog on Hot Summer Days

Summer is here, but hot weather shouldn’t be an excuse not to exercise your pooch. Walking and exercising your dog daily is great for their mental and physical health and helps create an everlasting bond between you and your canine companion.But, as temperatures rise, dog owners need to understand the risks of walking their dogs in hot weather and look for alternative ways to exercise their pets safely in the heat. A clinical professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Dr. Lori Teller, shared some tips on recognizing signs that it may be too hot to take your pooch for a walk and alternative ways to exercise them more safely during summer.When it comes to dogs and summer, the most important thing is to pay attention to your dog and recognize when it’s too hot to take them out for a walk.“When it’s hot outside, many dogs can be adversely impacted and suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke,” said Teller. “Dogs cannot sweat, and panting is not an effective mechanism for cooling off, so dogs don’t have efficient ways of handling excessive heat.”Although there isn’t a specific temperature that is too hot for all dogs, a good rule of thumb is to avoid walking and exercising dogs during the hottest times of the day. Walk and exercise your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when the temperature has dropped. Consider buying doggy booties to protect your pup’s paws from the scorching pavement.Teller advises, that in addition to being mindful of the time of the day they walk their dogs, owners should also be very careful with young puppies, senior dogs, as well as those with chronic medical conditions. Obese dogs, those suffering from heart and respiratory conditions, as well as flat-faced breeds, like pugs, bulldogs, and boxers, are more likely to suffer from heat stroke or heat exhaustion.Another thing to keep in mind is how adapted your dog is to the climate. For example, if your pooch is used to cooler climates and has recently moved to a warmer area, they are less likely to adjust and tolerate warmer temperatures. While hot summer months may prove difficult to keep a dog active, it’s important to stick with a regular exercise routine all year round to keep your dog healthy.Exercise is a great way for more active and working breeds, which can easily become restless, bored, and destructive, to burn off excess energy. It can also ease stress in anxious dogs. Regular exercise also promotes joint and heart health and helps with weight management.According to Teller, there are many alternatives to walking your dog during hot summer days. These activities can get you outside of the house without jeopardizing your dog’s health.“Dog owners can explore indoor areas such as places to participate in flyball, agility, or even doggy social events,” said Teller. “Swimming and dock diving is also a great activity for dogs that enjoy water.” If it seems too hot to take your dog outside, there are many ways you can exercise your pup at home. Use a long hallway to play a game of fetch with your pooch or create a dog-safe obstacle course. Some dogs will also like chasing a laser point, like those used to play with cats. Finding safe ways to keep your pup exercised during summer may seem challenging, but it’s worth it. Regular exercise will keep your furry friend physically and mentally stimulated without putting them at risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.  If at any point your dog shows signs of overheating, such as anxiety, restlessness, diarrhea, vomiting, excessive panting, drooling, unsteadiness while walking, and collapse, call your vet right away.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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

4 Hairless Cat Breeds

Although you might be familiar with the Sphynx cat, there are other hairless breeds that are just as intriguing and worth checking out if you want to add a rare hairless kitty to your household. Here are four hairless cat breeds and some of their distinctive features.   

Goldfish Named Merlin Gets Life-Saving Surgery

Risky removal of facial tumour means starving goldfish can eat again.

Why Does My Cat Drop Her Toys into Her Water Bowl?

No surprise, instincts are in play.

What to Know About Dehydration in Cats

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

How to Tell If a Dog Is Dehydrated?

Summer is in full swing, and drinking plenty of water is very important for everyone – our dogs included. Dehydration in dogs is a very serious condition that can lead to many health issues if it is not addressed promptly. Recognizing the signs of dehydration early can make a significant difference in your dog’s well-being. So here are the basic things to know, including symptoms, causes, and preventative measures. How to Tell If a Dog Is Dehydrated?When it comes to spotting signs of all health issues in dogs, it all boils down to being attentive and making sure you don’t miss any cues from your pooch. Knowing the symptoms of dehydration in dogs will help you tremendously as you’ll know precisely what to look for, ensuring a quick response and timely treatment for your four-legged bestie.#1 Dry nose and gums:One of the first noticeable signs of dehydration in dogs is a dry nose and gums. Normally, a dog’s nose should be moist, and the gums should be pink and moist as well. But if you notice that your pet’s nose and gums are dry, it could be an indication of dehydration.#2 Loss of skin elasticity:Skin elasticity is a key indicator of hydration levels. Gently pinch the skin on the back of your dog’s neck or between the shoulders. In a well-hydrated doggo, the skin should quickly return to its normal position. If the skin, however, stays tented or takes a long time to go back, it is a sign of dehydration. #3 Sunken eyes:Dehydration can cause a dog’s eyes to appear sunken and lack their usual brightness. This is a more severe symptom and indicates that the dehydration has been ongoing or is at a critical level.#4 Lethargy and weakness:Dehydrated dogs often show signs of lethargy and weakness. They might be less active than usual, unwilling to play, or have difficulty standing or walking. #5 Panting or rapid breathing:While panting is normal for dogs, excessive panting or rapid breathing can be a symptom of dehydration, especially if it is not related to any recent physical activity or high outside temperatures.#6 Dry and sticky saliva:Dehydrated dogs may have thick, sticky saliva instead of the usual watery type. This is a noticeable change that can indicate your dog needs more fluids.It is important to remember that there can be various causes of dehydration, and one needs to consider all of them. For example, the main cause of dehydration in dogs tends to be inadequate water intake. Dogs may not drink enough water due to many reasons, such as stress, illness, or changes in their environment. Make sure that they always have a source of fresh water, even if you are outside. If your dog isn’t too keen on drinking water, try encouraging them with a pet water fountain – moving, fresh water tends to have a better taste and the novelty of the fountain usually motivates dogs to drink more than they usually do. 

How Do You Keep a Dog Active During Winter?

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

Why Does My Cat Rub Against Me?

Cat parents – have you ever wondered why your feline friend seems obsessed with rubbing against you? Do you wonder whether your cat is trying to communicate something important that you may be missing?Head rubbing is a behavior that most cat parents find endearing. However, understanding your cat’s body language and non-verbal communication is an essential part of being a good cat parent. Cats are creatures of habit. This rubbing behavior is rooted in their instincts and learned from their mothers at a young age. It can have several meanings, requiring you to watch for other clues.In this article, I’ll break down the basics of non-verbal communication and help you understand what your cat is trying to tell you. After all, communication is an important foundation for a strong, loving relationship.Cats and PheromonesBefore we discuss the specific reasons cats rub their heads against the people in their lives, let’s take a moment to look at the biological explanation for this behavior. While there are many things your cat may be communicating, this communication largely comes back to one thing – pheromones.Pheromones are natural chemicals produced in your cat’s body and released when they interact with other objects or animals, such as through scratching, rubbing against objects, or spraying. They are colorless and odorless, meaning you won’t notice they are there. However, these chemicals trigger responses in your cat’s brain.The most common pheromones people are familiar with are those used when looking for a mate by triggering feelings of sexual attraction in other cats. We also see calming pheromones gaining popularity due to pheromone dispensers and other products that release synthetic versions of the chemicals to help a cat feel safe, relaxed, and secure.I will reference pheromones and their use in communication several times as we explore the different ways your cat may be using head rubbing to relay messages to you, your family, and other cats in the area.7 Reasons Cats Rub Against Their People If your cat is rubbing against you (or someone else), they are trying to use this movement to communicate a message to you. Often seen as simply a sign of affection, head rubbing is actually a fairly complex behavior with several potential meanings. Figuring out what your cat is trying to say may require watching for other signals your cat is projecting. Here are a few of the most common reasons cats rub against people: Just Saying Hello The most basic reason for head rubbing is that your cat is simply greeting you. This is particularly common if you have just come home (like returning from work) or either you or your cat just entered a room. Cats often use this behavior to greet other cats. Seeing you as part of their family/colony, your cat is telling you they are happy to see you by using the same greeting. Checking You Out As your cat rubs against you, they put their face close to the surface of your clothing or skin. Considering how much your cat relies on their sense of smell to navigate the world they live in, it likely comes as no surprise that, in doing this, they are checking out what smells they can pick up on you. Where have you been? Who have you been interacting with? This is also a common reason cats rub against people they don’t know. For example, if your cat rubs against a new guest in your home, they are trying to learn about this new individual who has entered their space. By rubbing against them, they aren’t showing affection or telling you that they like this person – they are still checking them out to figure out whether they deem them trustworthy and welcome in your home. As such, they may also appear nervous or unsettled with wide eyes, ears flattened back against their head, or a twitching tail. Asking for AttentionThis is the reason most people associate with head rubbing. It’s quite possible your cat is feeling affectionate and asking to be pet. In these cases, your cat will likely show other signs of love and affection, such as: Purring Meowing Slow blinking Licking you (ask grooming or “giving kisses”) Love bites Kneading Rolling on their back before/after to show their bellyFollowing you aroundWhen your cat is being affectionate like this, petting them may not stop the behavior. In fact, giving them attention can encourage further head rubbing as they enjoy this bonding moment. Letting You Know They Need SomethingCats are creatures of routine. They will notice if you are late for something typically scheduled, and it wouldn’t be surprising if they let you know. For example, if you are late filling their food dish, they may try to remind you that it’s mealtime. The head rubbing may be accompanied by little nips demanding your attention. My two cats, Pippen and Jinx, will use head rubbing to ask for many different things, including letting me know they would like a treat, alerting me that their water dish is running low, or asking me to clean the litterbox. Pay attention to whether your cat is just head rubbing against you or if their attention appears to be torn between you and something else. A cat asking for treats may rub against the cupboard where they are kept, while a cat wanting their water dish filled may wander over to check the dish. Marking Their “Territory” As I mentioned above, pheromones are often used to communicate with other cats. When it comes to head rubbing, your cat is leaving pheromones that tell others that you have been claimed. You are their person, and they aren’t afraid to make it known! The truth is that cats are territorial creatures and want to make sure they are marking their territory, even if that territory is another living, breathing being. This head-rubbing approach may also be used to establish ownership over other members of their family, regular visitors/friends they love, or even inanimate objects throughout your home. Be warned, if you have multiple cats in the home, this marking behavior may lead to some fights and turf wars. Whether you are introducing a new cat to the house or seeing territorial behavior arise between two existing cats, you can use pheromones to relieve the tension. Pheromone diffusers have been found to calm conflict, helping create a more peaceful home. In our house, we have had a lot of luck with the Feliway MultiCat Calming Pheromone Diffuser in the early days of introducing new cats, including the foster cats that have come into our home temporarily over the years.

What Is a Lick Granuloma?

In most cases when dogs lick themselves, it’s a part of their everyday self-grooming routine – and nothing to worry about. However, in some cases, they can go overboard with it, leading to a condition known as lick granuloma. This occurs when a dog repeatedly licks a specific area on their skin. This is usually on the front legs, and results in a raised, thick, and often ulcerated patch of skin. Due to the constant licking, the patch of skin is irritated and inflamed and can be infected as well. Because of this, the lick granuloma can be a frustrating and persistent issue for both doggos and their owners and will require long-term treatment. Here is all you need to know about this condition.What is a Lick Granuloma? Causes and TreatmentThere are many reasons why a dog could develop a lick granuloma, and they are usually a distinct combination of physiological and psychological factors. Here are just a few of the most common reasons:Allergies:Doggos who suffer from allergies, especially during the summer and spring, can develop an itchy sensation on a certain part of their body. They will try to alleviate this through repeated licking, which could lead to a granuloma if not prevented.Injuries and infections:Dogs often soothe injured areas with licking. If a minor cut or scratch bothers them, they can start a cycle of repetitive licking to alleviate the pain. Instead, the wound is given no chance to heal, and in time a granuloma is formed. Stress and anxiety:Some psychological factors such as anxiety, fear, boredom, or stress can lead to repetitive behaviors, of which licking is a common one. Left for long periods of time, some dogs might start the licking cycle in a way to soothe themselves. However, this leads to the pesky granuloma forming.Arthritis:Common in older dogs, arthritis can be a source of great discomfort. In order to relieve it, dogs might lick their joints or affected areas, repetitively. The discomfort is not eased, and a granuloma appears instead.You will usually have no difficulties spotting a lick granuloma. This is a raised, red, and sometimes ulcerated lesion, usually found on a dog’s leg, near the wrist. The wound may be moist, and the skin scarred and thickened. Another indication is the dog’s behavior: they might be persistent in licking it, and annoyed when prevented from doing so. Also common is hair loss around the granuloma, while bleeding happens rarely. Of course, these symptoms require urgent veterinary care. Depending on the severity of the granuloma, the vet can apply several treatment options. For example, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, and topical ointments are often prescribed. These can help reduce swelling, infection, and promote healing. However, if the cause of the licking is related to anxiety, boredom, and stress, the vet might prescribe increased physical activity, mental stimulation through special dog toys, or reduced stressors.

What Are the Top Cleaning Products for Pet-Based Households?

(photo credit: New Africa / shutterstock.com)Living in a home with three dogs and two cats, believe me, I understand the challenges of eliminating funky pet odor. The thing is, I’m a big proponent of cleaning versus masking. I don’t want my house smelling like someone set off a rose-scented Glade bomb to cover up the smell of my fur crew. In fact, I think the only thing worse than pet smells, is a heavy artificial scent layered on top of those smells, thinking it covered them up. You know what I’m talking about.So, when I can find an effective way to actually clean and freshen my shared living space, I’m all in. Especially when I can do it myself by simply rotating it into my usual house-cleaning regimen. And that’s why finding products that are quick, easy and more importantly effective, is the order of the day in my home. Because we all know that our efforts can be thwarted in the blink of an eye if your pet has a dicky tummy or trots something icky into the house and across your carpets and soft furnishings.Location, Location, Location!

How to Set Up an Indoor Dog Potty Station

Mother Nature can sometimes be a real buzzkill, especially when your dog needs to go. A sudden snowstorm, a torrential downpour, or a late-night emergency can leave us scrambling to find a solution for our furry family members.Fear not, fellow dog parents!With a bit of planning and the proper setup, you can create a reliable indoor potty station that will ensure your dog’s comfort and your home’s cleanliness are both top priorities, regardless of the weather.Reasons for Using an Indoor Dog PottyAs dog parents, we usually hear about the importance of potty training. After all, why would we want to deal with accidents in our homes when we can move the mess outdoors, where it’s more sanitary and easier to clean up?Whether you’re dealing with harsh weather connections, have limited outdoor access, or find yourself navigating physical limitations, an indoor potty station can be a game-changer. Here are a few situations where you may consider setting up a doggy-friendly bathroom spot inside:Potty Training The most common reason for setting up an indoor potty station is to provide your pup with an option during the potty training stage. We regularly associate potty training with young puppies, and for good reason. They are still learning what is expected of them at this young age. But young puppies aren’t the only ones trying to familiarize themselves with the household rules. This may also apply to dogs that recently joined the family at an older age, like shelter or rescue dogs who have recently been adopted. Some dogs also experience potty training regression, needing to relearn where they are allowed to relieve themselves. Regardless of your dog’s age or whether this is the first time they have been potty trained, one thing is true – there will likely be times they suddenly need to go. If they can’t get your attention to take them outdoors, an indoor potty provides them with somewhere to take care of business while still respecting the rules of the house. Medical Issues or Injury Recovery If your dog’s mobility is limited due to an illness, disease, or injury, they may have difficulty getting outdoors to go to the bathroom. This often requires changes in your routine or around your home to accommodate their needs. It could be for a short-term need, like recovering after surgery, or a long-term change due to an ongoing medical condition. Setting up a bathroom space in your home will make it easier to help your dog to the right spot to do their business. This is especially important if hurdles like stairs prevent them from easily moving through the home or heading outside. The Golden YearsDo you share your heart and your home with a senior dog? Whether your dog is experiencing limited mobility due to arthritis or struggles to make it outside due to incontinence, an indoor potty station may help reduce accidents around the home while avoiding the guilt older dogs often feel when they know they have done something they shouldn’t. Another condition often faced by dogs in their later years is canine dementia. As part of this, your dog may struggle to remember the route to the back door, making it nearly impossible to avoid accidents unless they are near an exit point. Setting up a potty station or two in your home, where they spend the bulk of their time, will ensure an easy-to-find bathroom spot is available. Harsh Weather Taking your dog out to go to the bathroom, rain or shine, is a commitment you make as a dog parent. However, there are times that extreme weather conditions make it unsafe to go outdoors, preventing your dog from heading out to their usual bathroom location. Some examples we have seen recently in the United States include a potential tornado or the arrival of a severe hurricane. Unfortunately, during these weather events, your dog will still need to go to the bathroom. An indoor potty station can easily be set up in the safety of your home, allowing your dog to remain near the rest of the family while avoiding unnecessary accidents. Lack of Convenient Outdoor Space If you have an easily accessible backyard or garden space, this struggle may not cross your mind. But for some dog parents, taking their pup out to go to the bathroom may require a lot more effort. For example, if you live in an apartment on one of the upper floors of a high-rise apartment, the journey to take your dog outside could take a surprisingly long time. Your dog is probably used to the time it takes to make their way outside. However, there are times when they may have to go so badly that it makes it difficult or uncomfortable to hold it that long. For example, if your dog has been inside for a longer time while you’re at work or you’re just waking up after a full night’s sleep. In these situations, having an indoor potty will allow your dog to relieve themselves without running the risk of accidents along the way. Physical Limitations We already addressed the possibility that your dog may experience limited mobility, but what about you? If you were to suffer an injury or be recovering from an illness, taking your dog outdoors could be a significant challenge. Struggling to keep up with your regular routine doesn’t make you a bad dog parent, but you must consider alternatives to meet your dog’s needs. Setting up an indoor potty for your dog is a great short-term solution until you have recovered enough to take them outside more frequently.

New Study Sheds Light On The Harmful Effect of Plastics On Pets

We all know how harmful microplastics are – both for the environment and for our health. However, it seems that the effects of plastics are as adverse for our four-legged friends. This latest report by Earthday.org is the result of an extensive study of pets' exposure to microplastics and toxic plastic chemicals and is a follow-up to the recent “Babies vs. Plastics” report. “Pet owners should read this report,” said Aidan Charron, EARTHDAY.ORG, director, end plastic initiatives. “Plastic is derived from a cocktail of oil and additive chemicals, like bisphenol A, PVC, and phthalates. These can leach into our pets’ gums, stomachs, and skin and are associated with a whole host of health issues for our pets. From cancers to embryo development to potential infertility, liver failure, miscarriage, and more. ”In an effort to support this initiative by Earthday.org, the actress Amanda Seyfried and her pet dog Finn took part in a plastic tox test. This was an effort to raise awareness about the many health risks of plastic chemical exposure, for both humans and pets. “I was anxious about the results and when they came back I was definitely upset by my dog Finn’s exposure, he scored in the top 90 percent on phthalates, which is very high,” said Amanda Seyfried. “I feed him a healthy diet but I realize now that the plastic packaging on his food is leaching toxic chemicals directly into it. It was a bit of a wake-up call. If his food is contaminated with phthalates, then that convinces me that all of us are much more exposed than we perhaps realize, including our children.”“Even if you don’t care about your own pet’s health, and we do, our pets act as sentinels,” added Kathleen Rogers, president of Earthday.org. “What impacts them, is almost certainly impacting us and this is yet more evidence that we are all ingesting and inhaling plastics in one form or another. We have to slash plastic production by 60 percent by 2040 and make the plastic industry take responsibility for the harm they are causing.”Of course, this study is important for all pet owners. After all, pets are considered a part of the family. In fact, modern research shows that the majority of global pet owners think of their pets, especially dogs and cats, as family members, or see them as something similar to a child. “We are not trying to frighten pet owners, we just want them to be aware that it is best for your pet’s health to avoid plastic toys and textiles as much as possible, and really be mindful of how their food is packaged,” added Tom Cosgrove, chief creative and content officer for Earthday.org. “We are bombarding our bodies, our families, and our pets with a toxic mix of chemicals and we want people to be aware.”

Is It OK To Let My Cat Sleep In My Bed?

Cats love to snooze, and they will often do it in the oddest of places: on top of the cupboard, behind the couch, on the window sill, in the armchair, and everywhere in between. Of course, the list of nap-friendly spots will most certainly include your own bed as well. But when is it ok to allow your feline friend to sleep in your bed? Many owners consider this to be a common practice, as their presence often provides comfort and warmth – nothing beats curling up to a purring cat on a chilly evening. However, some debate still exists regarding whether this is OK or not. And while the final decision is up to you, there are a few advantages and disadvantages that need to be considered before you make it.Is It OK To Let My Cat Sleep In My Bed?One of the most common reasons why people will sleep together with their cats is the emotional connection it provides. Cuddling a cat can be as effective as melatonin when it comes to putting you to sleep, and the rhythmic sound of a cat purring can be very soothing and will reduce your stress and anxiety, especially after a long day at work. Not to mention how warm they are – you feel toasty and snug as a bug when you sleep with your kitty next to you.But even so, there are certain drawbacks to letting your cat sleep in your bed. One of the main concerns is how it would impact the quality of your sleep. Being nocturnal creatures and active at night, cats might jump on and off the bed at a whim, scratch, stretch, make noises, and generally disrupt your sleep. Having a restless night will affect your energy and productivity for the coming day.Hygiene and cleanliness are also a worry. While generally clean animals, cats can still carry allergens, litter particles, dirt, and hair, all of which can end up in your bed and on your sheets. Owners that have asthma or certain allergies can really suffer because of this. And even if you make sure to groom your cat regularly, these things can still happen.

What to Do If My Dog Eats Mistletoe?

The holiday season is a time for festive decorations, but for dog owners, it’s also a time for extra vigilance. Curious pups are often tempted to nibble on anything new and shiny, including mistletoe. While this iconic holiday plant is beautiful, it can be dangerous if ingested. Knowing what to do if your dog eats mistletoe is crucial for their safety and well-being.Why Is Mistletoe Dangerous?Mistletoe is a parasitic plant that contains toxic substances such as phoratoxins and lectins. Both European mistletoe (Viscum album) and American mistletoe (Phoradendron species) can be harmful to dogs, though the American variety is slightly less toxic. Every part of the plant — leaves, berries, and stems — is potentially dangerous. Ingesting mistletoe can lead to symptoms of poisoning, which may range from mild to severe depending on the amount consumed and your dog’s size, age, and breed.Symptoms of Mistletoe Poisoning in DogsIf your dog eats mistletoe, watch for the following symptoms:DroolingAbdominal pain (whimpering or restlessness)VomitingDiarrheaLethargyDifficulty breathingSlowed heart rateSeizures (in rare cases)The severity of these symptoms depends on how much mistletoe was ingested.What to Do If Your Dog Eats MistletoeStay Calm Panicking can make it harder to assess the situation and take appropriate action. Your dog may also pick up on your stress, which can worsen their agitation.Assess the Situation Try to determine how much mistletoe your dog consumed. Check for any remaining pieces of the plant to help estimate the amount ingested.Remove Any Remaining Mistletoe Safely dispose of any leftover mistletoe to prevent further accidents. Ensure it’s out of your dog’s reach.Contact a Veterinarian Call your vet or an animal poison control hotline, such as the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435. Be prepared to provide details such as:The type of mistletoe (European or American)The approximate amount ingestedYour dog’s weight and current symptomsFollow Veterinary Advice Your vet may recommend bringing your dog in for treatment or monitoring them at home. Follow their instructions carefully.Preventing Mistletoe IngestionThe best way to protect your dog is to keep mistletoe out of reach. Here are some tips:Use Artificial Mistletoe: Fake mistletoe looks just as festive but is much safer.

Miniature Shetland Ponies as Therapy Dogs?

In the UK, this unexpected service animal is a hit in the long-term care homes.