Deaf Rescue Dog Finds New Role on the Family Farm

Are GPS Pet Trackers and Fitness Trackers the Same Thing?

You’ve microchipped your dog and have a securely fenced yard, but there’s still that tiny, nagging fear… What if they get spooked by a sudden noise and slip out the front door? What if your dog slips away when travelling? Or maybe your concern isn’t about them getting lost at all, but about their health. Is your cat getting enough exercise? Is your puppy getting too much?For a long time, we relied on observation and tried to communicate as accurately as possible with our veterinarians. But today, technology has given modern pet parents like you incredible tools to help in this aspect of your dog’s care.In this guide, we’ll dive into the world of pet wearables, breaking down the difference between GPS trackers and fitness trackers, exploring how each of these products works, and highlighting their strengths. You’ll have all the information you need to help you decide which is the perfect tool for your pet’s needs.What Are Pet GPS Trackers?A pet GPS tracker is a small device, typically worn on your pet’s collar, that uses satellite technology to pinpoint their exact location in real-time. Think of it like a personal, portable GPS system just for your pet. This isn’t just a simple tag; it’s a sophisticated piece of technology designed to help pet parents answer one of the most urgent questions that may arise: “Where are they right now?” They were originally used for hunting dogs, but today they are growing in popularity for house pets.The way a GPS tracker works is quite clever. The small unit on your pet’s collar receives signals from multiple satellites orbiting the Earth. By communicating with these satellites, they are able to calculate your cat’s precise position at any given moment. That position data is then sent to a server, where it can be accessed.Most trackers rely on a cellular network, which is why they require a monthly subscription, making it essential to have a cell phone plan for the device. However, others use a more traditional GPS technology that doesn’t rely on cell networks, allowing them to work even where a cell connection isn’t available.Once the information has been received by the network, it is then relayed directly to an app on your smartphone or a handheld receiver, giving you a live map of your pet’s location. This process allows for a virtually unlimited range, so whether your pet is a few blocks away or miles from home, you can see their location.The true value of a pet GPS tracker lies in its key features, which are all centred on providing security and peace of mind. Depending on the product you purchase, this may include:Real-time Location Tracking: The primary and most critical feature. This allows you to see your pet’s location on a map at any moment, so you can track them down if they get lost.Geofencing: This powerful tool allows you to set up virtual safety zones, like your backyard or a local park. If your pet wanders outside of this predetermined area, you’ll receive an instant alert on your phone.Location History: Most apps keep a history of your pet’s movements, so you can see where they’ve been. This can be helpful in identifying common escape routes or understanding their roaming habits.Durability: These devices are built to withstand the elements, often being waterproof and rugged to handle even an adventurous pet’s lifestyle.A GPS tracker is an invaluable tool for certain situations. It’s perfect for the adventurous pet who loves to roam, such as those who enjoy camping and hiking. If they become disoriented or lost in an unfamiliar environment, this will help you bring them home. They are also helpful for known escape artists who are always looking for (and somehow finding) a way out.It’s important to remember that a GPS tracker is not the same as a microchip. A microchip is a form of permanent identification that can be scanned by a vet or animal shelter if your lost pet is found. It can’t actively track your pet’s location.Similarly, it’s also important to note that a GPS tracker is far more reliable and has a greater range than a Bluetooth tracker (like an Apple AirTag), which only works when your pet is within a few dozen feet of your phone or someone else’s.Some examples of highly recommended pet GPS trackers include:Tractive Smart GPS Tracker ( for cats and for dogs) Fi Series 3+ Smart Dog Tracker CollarWeenect GPS Collar ( for cats and for dogs) Halo Collar 3 Garmin T 5X (my personal go-to)Understanding Pet Fitness TrackersA pet fitness tracker is a small device, usually attached to a collar or harness, that monitors your pet’s activity, rest, and overall behavior. Think of it like a Fitbit for your pet, designed to provide insights into their health and wellness. These devices are less about knowing your pet’s location (although some due have GPS capabilities) and more about understanding their lifestyle.Unlike GPS trackers, which use satellites, fitness trackers rely on an internal sensor called an accelerometer. This sensor detects and measures movement. The device’s software then translates this movement into meaningful data points, such as steps taken, distance traveled, active minutes, and calories burned. This information is typically synced to your smartphone app via Bluetooth, meaning there is no need for a monthly cellular subscription.The true benefit of a fitness tracker lies in the health data it provides:Activity Monitoring: Tracks your pet’s daily steps, distance, and time spent being active versus resting. This helps you ensure they’re meeting their exercise needs.Behavioral Insights: Some advanced models can monitor scratching, shaking, or changes in sleep patterns. This data can be a subtle but important early indicator of discomfort or health issues that you might not otherwise notice.Goal Setting and Benchmarking: The app allows you to set daily activity goals based on your pet’s breed, age, and weight. You can also compare your pet’s activity to other pets of the same breed and age, giving you a better understanding of what a healthy activity level looks like.Health Reports: Over time, the data creates a comprehensive picture of your pet’s activity and rest trends, which you can share with your veterinarian during checkups.A fitness tracker is an excellent tool if your main concern is your pet’s health. It’s ideal for managing a pet’s weight, as it provides data to help you create and stick to a weight loss plan. It’s also invaluable for monitoring recovery after an injury or surgery, as it allows you to see gradual improvements in activity.For aging pets, a fitness tracker can help you track mobility and identify potential signs of conditions like arthritis. Ultimately, it’s for any pet parent who wants to be more proactive about their pet’s long-term well-being and ensure they are getting a balanced, healthy life.Some examples of helpful pet fitness trackers include: FitBark Activity Monitor Link GPS Dog Tracker + Activity Monitor PetPace AI Health Monitor Minitailz Health & GPS Tracker for Dogs

Real Strategies to Manage (and Survive) the Puppy Blues

When you first brought your new puppy home, you were likely picturing fluffy cuddles and playful romps in the park, but the reality of puppy parenthood has now hit you hard. From the sleepless nights and sharp little teeth to the endless trail of messes and chewed shoes, it can leave you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and maybe even a little regretful.Please know you’re not alone! This emotional rollercoaster, known as the “puppy blues,” is more normal than you can imagine.Characterized by feelings of intense stress and overwhelm after adding a new pup to the family, many new dog parents feel like they are in over their heads. But take a deep breath because these feelings are temporary.You can survive this challenging phase with the right strategies and a little patience. In this post, I’ll share practical strategies that have helped me cope, showing you how to create a positive environment for both you and your newest furry family member – at least until they grow out of the crazy puppy stage.Understanding the Puppy BluesThe “puppy blues” is an emotional struggle that stems from the stark contrast between the beautiful image of puppy parenthood and the demanding reality. Preparing to bring home a new puppy, we often picture that playful and loving companion, instant bonding, and constant smiles. That dream convinces most of us that we are prepared to add a new dog to the family.However, the truth is far more challenging. Living with a new puppy often involves a relentless cycle of missed sleep, the challenges of house training and protecting your home, and constant vigilance to try to avoid the next disaster. We are faced with the unexpected financial strain of providing for our new puppy – including adoption fees, veterinary bills, and all the puppy supplies needed to get started.Add to this the social isolation that often accompanies caring for a young puppy (or the challenges of separation anxiety if you do try to get out and have a social life), and it’s easy to see how stress can take hold.The lack of sleep and high stress levels can trigger overwhelming emotions in even the most stable and confident dog parents among us.While I don’t want to paint a sad picture and turn people away from the joys of being a dog parent, normalizing this experience is important. Many of us face these feelings to some degree, and it doesn’t reflect poorly on your ability to care for your dog. The truth is, it’s a lot of work! Your new puppy didn’t come with a handbook providing all the answers, and there isn’t a mute or off switch for when you feel like you need a moment.But it’s important to remember that your puppy isn’t intentionally being difficult. They are navigating an entirely new world, learning boundaries, and adapting to a new and changing environment, just as you are. The goal is to find a way you can face and survive this stage together.Practical Strategies for Managing the Puppy BluesWhile there is no guaranteed way to avoid these big feelings, there are steps you can take to effectively manage or combat the overwhelm. Here are some practical, actionable strategies I have used first-hand to navigate the challenges and find balance during the early days of bringing home a new puppy.Establish a RoutineOne of the most important things you can do for your newest family member is to create and stick to a structured routine. Why? This provides a predictable foundation for both you and your puppy, helping reduce anxiety and promote calmness. By following a consistent daily schedule, you help your puppy understand what to expect, taking the guesswork out of their day and minimizing any confusion or uncertainty.Designate specific areas within your home as your puppy’s “ safe place.” These should be places your puppy can retreat to when feeling overwhelmed. Plus, when paired with careful puppy proofing, they are places you can trust your puppy will be safe and sound. This could be a cozy crate, a designated room with a baby gate, or a comfortable playpen.A strict meal and bathroom schedule is the secret to success when training. By sticking to predictable feeding times and frequent potty breaks, especially after meals, naps, and play sessions, you can minimize accidents in your home and start to create good habits.A consistent schedule will help you establish a sense of order, communicate expectations, and prioritize your puppy’s emotional well-being and development.Potty Training StrategiesAs I just mentioned, frequent potty breaks are essential to successful house training. Establish a consistent schedule for taking your puppy outside right from the beginning and stick with it as closely as possible. This should include bathroom breaks immediately after meals, naps, and play sessions – times when a puppy is most likely to have an accident.When implemented correctly, crate training can be a valuable tool for house training. Plus, the crate is a den or safe space for your puppy. When shopping for a crate, ensure it is appropriately sized (your puppy should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably). Never use the crate as punishment – it should always be treated as a positive space for your pup.Before bringing your puppy home, you should stock up on essential cleaning supplies, such as enzyme cleaners to effectively eliminate messes and prevent future accidents, as well as puppy pads ( disposable or reusable) to protect important spaces in your home (like that newly finished hardwood floor).Always reward your puppy with enthusiastic praise and high-value treats when they go to the bathroom outside. This will help them recognize that going to the bathroom in that designated area is a good thing, encouraging them to continue with this behavior.Socialization and Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement is far more effective than punishment in helping teach your puppy good habits. The first step is identifying what best motivates your puppy. We often associate positive reinforcement with food treats, but this won’t be the best option for every dog. Instead, you may find they are better motivated by verbal praise, a favorite toy, or a belly rub.Avoid punishment-based methods when training, as this can create fear and anxiety. If you run into challenges, don’t hesitate to reach out to a certified dog trainer or behaviorist. A professional can provide you with helpful tips and tailored advice to help you reach your training goals. Controlled socialization is another essential step in setting your new pup up for success. Gradually expose your pup to new environments, people, and dogs in a safe and positive way. Start with short, low-intensity encounters. As your puppy becomes more comfortable, you can slowly increase the duration or intensity, building their confidence.Remember, puppies have short attention spans. Keep training sessions brief and engaging. Short, frequent training sessions will be far more effective than long, drawn-out ones that leave you both feeling frustrated.

Are Agility Competitions in Your Dog's Future?

Think your little buddy has what it takes to compete with the best? Here's how you get started.

Let's Swap Out the Dread Dog Cone With Something Comfortable!

(photo credit: loflo69 / shutterstock.com)Whether your pet is returning from the vet’s office after a minor snip-snip or a major surgery, odds are that you’ve been told not to let them lick, scratch, or fret over the wound. Now, although dog saliva does contain histatins that act as a mild antibacterial and many think it helps expedite wound healing, studies have shown that’s not necessarily the case. In fact, dogs lick their wounds as a form of self-soothing rather than because of any deep-seated intuition that tells them it will help them heal more quickly.Now, despite dog saliva’s antibacterial properties, the amount is insufficient to keep the wound clean and more often than not, will add different bacterium that can result in infection. Further, constant licking can also prevent the injury from scabbing over and healing properly.And that’s why your veterinarian will want your dog “coned”. It prevents access to a wound or incision site and slows the healing process. But, while getting the cone on your pet is relatively easy, believe me when I say that living with a coned animal is anything but. Not only are they bulky and awkward but these plastic shields block vision, restrict the animal from laying down naturally, moving throughout their home, as well as interfering with their ability to groom themselves.But who’s to say that preventing your little guy from licking or scratching a wound or incision had to be done with a hard plastic cone that constantly bumped into furniture and blocked vision? What if it could be a lot more comfortable and less restrictive?

5 Tips for Taking Better Care of Your Dog’s Paws

Your dog’s paws help them run, play, and explore the world, but they can also get hurt or irritated if not cared for. From hot pavement in summer to cold ice in winter, paws face many challenges. With a little attention, you can keep them healthy and comfortable. Here are five easy tips to help.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

How Do I Set Up a Proper Terrarium?

Setting up a terrarium is one of the first and most important steps in providing a safe, healthy home for your exotic pet. Whether you're housing a reptile, amphibian, or insect - or just want to grow a small indoor ecosystem - getting the basics right will make all the difference.Start with the Right Type of TerrariumFirst, decide what kind of environment you're building. Terrariums come in two main types:Closed terrariums hold in moisture and work well for humidity-loving plants like mosses and ferns.Open terrariums allow airflow and are better for dry-climate plants or animals that need ventilation.If your terrarium will house an animal, factor that in early. A setup for plants alone is very different from one meant for reptiles or amphibians. Each species has specific space, light, and temperature needs.Choose a Suitable EnclosurePlant terrariums can be as simple as a glass jar or a repurposed fish tank. For pets, especially reptiles and amphibians, you’ll need a secure, ventilated tank, ideally one made of glass or sturdy plastic. Vertical tanks are best for climbers like chameleons and tree frogs.

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.

How Do Calming Pillows, Beds, and Blankets Keep Dogs Stress Free?

Bam Bam, the Stolen Support Dog, Reunited with Owner After 2 Months

It’s taken more than two months, but Bam Bam the service dog has been reunited with his family in Chicago. His owner, Angel Santiago, is 58 years old and legally blind, and desperately searched for his missing pooch ever since he went missing. Here are the details.

Cairn Terriers Are Just So WICKED!

Resurgence of everything "Oz" has us remembering a four-legged heroine who stole our hearts.

Having a Pet Influences How and If People Travel

If you’ve ever felt guilty about traveling and leaving your pet behind at home, you aren’t alone. According to a TrustedHousesitters survey of pet parents in the United States, having a pet can influence your travel plans. Keep reading to learn about some interesting stats, and see if you share a lot of the same feelings as so many others who aren’t always excited to go on vacation without their fur babies.

Is Periodontal Disease in Dogs Reversible?

If you've ever gotten a whiff of your dog’s bad breath and thought, that can’t be normal, you're probably right. Bad breath isn’t just a quirky part of being a dog - it can be a sign of something more serious: periodontal disease.This common condition affects most dogs by the time they’re three years old, and if left untreated, it can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. But here’s the big question on most pet parents’ minds: is periodontal disease in dogs reversible?The short answer? It depends on the stage.The long answer? Let’s break it down.What Is Periodontal Disease, Exactly?Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that affects your dog’s gums, teeth, and the structures that support them. It usually starts with plaque - a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on the teeth after eating. If that plaque isn’t removed (through brushing or chewing), it hardens into tartar, and the real trouble begins.

FDA Approves Long-Lasting Flea and Tick Treatment for Dogs

If you’ve ever found yourself flipping through your calendar and panicking over a missed flea treatment, we’ve got news that might change your whole routine. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just approved a once-a-year flea and tick shot for dogs, and it’s already making waves in the pet world.The product, called Bravecto Quantum, is an injectable medication that protects dogs from fleas and ticks for a full 12 months. Yes, you read that right, one vet visit, and your dog is covered for an entire year.The long-acting shot contains fluralaner, the same active ingredient found in other Bravecto products, but this version is specially formulated for extended release. That means no more monthly chewables, no more oily spot-ons, and no more reminders you snooze and forget. Bravecto Quantum has been used in Australia and Europe, but as of July 2025, it’s now officially FDA-approved and set to become available in U.S. veterinary clinics this August.For busy pet parents, this new option could be a total game changer.“Year-round protection in one easy injection,” said Dr. Christine Royal, veterinarian and executive director at Merck Animal Health. “It’s a convenient and effective option that supports compliance and peace of mind.” And that peace of mind is something pet owners know can be hard to come by, especially when juggling a household, a job, and a dog who absolutely refuses to eat that monthly pill hidden in peanut butter.The shot protects against fleas and three major types of ticks - American dog ticks, black-legged ticks, and brown dog ticks - for 12 months. It also offers eight months of protection against lone star ticks, which are increasingly common in many U.S. regions.Bravecto Quantum is administered by a veterinarian, not something you can do at home, which is actually a plus. It guarantees proper dosing and gives you a reason to take your dog for an annual health check, which many vets recommend anyway.Like any medication, it’s not totally risk-free. Fluralaner belongs to the isoxazoline class of drugs, which the FDA has linked to neurological side effects such as tremors and seizures, particularly in dogs with a history of those conditions. Common side effects may include mild injection site discomfort or lethargy, but these are generally short-lived.Dr. Tina Wismer, senior director at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, says this long-acting option could be particularly helpful for certain pet families. “In areas where ticks are active year-round, or for owners who struggle to remember monthly treatments, having a once-a-year injection simplifies things considerably,” she noted.So what’s the upside of Bravecto Quantum for pet parents?For starters, it reduces the risk of gaps in protection. Skipping just one monthly dose can leave your dog vulnerable, not just to fleas, but to serious diseases like Lyme, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, all of which are transmitted by ticks.It also means fewer products in your cabinet, fewer dosing errors, and let’s be honest, fewer wrestling matches with your dog on the kitchen floor.That said, it’s not a magic fix-all. You’ll still want to maintain a clean home environment, wash bedding regularly, and keep your yard tick-free. Flea and tick protection works best when it’s part of a bigger strategy.If your pup is six months or older and in good health, talk to your vet to see if the new shot might be right for them. It might just be the simplest way yet to keep them safe and give you one less thing to worry about for the next 365 days.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Study Finds Owning a Pet Is As Good For You As Being Married

Owning a pet cat or a dog can be as satisfying as being married, or regularly seeing your friends, or family, a new study shows. The study, published in the journal Social Indicators Research, also found that having a four-legged companion offers the same psychological benefits as being married or earning an extra $90,000 a year. Researchers at Kent University used the “life satisfaction” approach, which economists use to measure intangible assets like family and friendship, to calculate a hypothetical income. The study analyzed data from 2,500 British families and found that owning a pet comes with an increase in life satisfaction of 3-4 points on a scale of 1-7. Similar values were acquired for meeting with friends and family regularly.In other studies, economists have shown that marriage, compared to being single, is worth around $90,000 a year. On the other hand, separation is equal to around minus $170,000. The lead author of this study, Dr Adelina Gschwandtner, an economics professor at the University of Kent, told The Times she was inspired by a recent research paper that put a price tag on human friendships. “I thought, ‘well, if it’s possible for friends, why not for pets?’”“I understand why some people may be skeptical,” she added. “Given that pets are considered by many as best friends and family members, these values appear to be plausible… I also suspect that many people don’t actually realize how important their pets are for them.”Numerous studies have shown that owning a pet offers many health benefits. Research shows that spending time with a dog relieves stress, keeps you active, and helps you live longer. Stroking a cat has been proven to lower blood pressure and heart rate. Having a cat at home can reduce the risk of asthma and allergic rhinitis in children exposed to allergens. A simple act of petting a cat or a dog helps lower the levels of the stress hormone cortisol, promoting calmness and reducing stress. Dr Gschwandtner added, “This research answers the question whether overall pet companions are good for us with a resounding ‘Yes’.”“Pets care for us, and there is a significant monetary value associated with their companionship. This information can be used for health care practices and policy aiming to increase well-being and life satisfaction of humans involving pets.” This study also shed some light on the personality traits of pet owners, noting that cat owners appear to be more open, while dog owners tend to be more agreeable, extroverted, and less neurotic. The study’s authors also pointed out that pet owners in general appear to be more open, conscientious, and extroverted than people who don’t own a pet.While the mental and physical benefits of owning a dog are well-known, scientists are still debating the overall impact pets have on their owners’ well-being. According to Megan Mueller, an associate professor at Tufts University who studies the relationship between people and animals, things are more complicated than they seem. “A lot of us see our pets as contributing to our life satisfaction, but depending on how you measure that in the research, it comes out different ways.” But rather than comparing pet ownership and life satisfaction, the authors of this study decided to prove a causal link. If the results of this study are correct, and pets improve satisfaction as much as data suggests, Dr Gschwandtner hopes policymakers will make it easier for people to own cats or dogs. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

It's a Dog Fight as PETA Takes on AKC

Citing the iconic organization's "blueprint for breeding unhealthy dogs" has the American Kennel Club (AKC) pushing back.

How to Tell If Your Hamster Is Overweight (and What to Do About It)

When we bring a hamster into the home, we quickly fall in love with the cute, fluffy little ball of energy. We focus on providing everything they need to live their best little lives, including providing a safe habitat, a healthy diet, and plenty of enrichment. However, there’s one common health concern that’s often overlooked – obesity.While a hamster’s chubby cheeks are part of their charm, being overweight can lead to serious, life-shortening health issues.In this post, we’ll share how to identify if your hamster is carrying a little too much weight, the common reasons for weight gain, and, most importantly, tips for creating a clear action plan to help your furry friend live their longest, happiest, and healthiest life.Why is an Overweight Hamster Concerning? It’s easy to look at a plump hamster and simply think they’re well-fed and happy. But beneath that cute, round exterior lies the potential for health risks that can significantly impact their quality of life and reduce their lifespan. Just like in humans, carrying around excess weight puts a strain on your hamster’s tiny body. This can lead to a long list of medical issues and complications. Understanding these potential dangers is the first step toward preventing them and keeping our little friends safe. Diabetes One of the most significant risks for overweight hamsters, particularly for certain species such as the Djungarian hamster, is diabetes. An unhealthy diet high in sugar and fat can lead to insulin resistance. This disturbance in insulin levels can progress to diabetes. The warning signs can be subtle at first, including increased thirst and urination. If left unmanaged, it can lead to cataracts, kidney failure, and a host of other problems. Strained Joints and Organs That extra padding isn’t just external. It’s also collecting around the vital organs. Over time, this extra fat can lead to heart and liver disease, compromising their function and making your hamster more susceptible to other illnesses. Furthermore, your hamster’s tiny skeleton is not designed to carry a lot of extra weight. An overweight hamster may develop joint problems, making it difficult for them to move around, climb, or even run on their exercise wheel. This lack of mobility and exercise creates a vicious cycle where a less active hamster gains even more weight, further compounding the problem. Shortened Life Ultimately, all of these health issues combine to shorten your hamster’s life and diminish its quality. A hamster that is in pain, out of breath, or unable to move freely is a far cry from the active, curious little creature they are meant to be. The goal of any pet parent is to provide a long, happy life, and addressing their weight issues is a key part of that commitment. How to Tell if Your Hamster is Overweight Determining if your hamster is overweight isn’t just about stepping on a scale (although weighing them could be part of the process). Instead, it’s a process of careful observation, combining what you see with a gentle touch. Think of yourself as a detective, looking for cues that their body is carrying a little more weight than it should. The Visual Check The first and easiest step is simply to look at your hamster. An ideal body shape for most hamster species is a sleek, pear-like shape. From above, you should be able to see a distinct narrowing behind their shoulders, with the body then becoming lightly wider around the hips. Of course, this will vary from species to species. There are also notable differences between hamsters and dwarf hamsters.  An overweight hamster, on the other hand, will have a body that is consistently round from head to tail, with no visible waist. You may notice their sides bulging noticeably when they sit. Keep in mind that a hamster with full cheek pouches can look bigger, but this is a temporary state! The key to deciding is looking at their body shape when their pouches are empty. The Touch Test For a more accurate assessment, you can perform a gentle touch test. Known as palpation, this approach is used by veterinarians and small animal experts. When your hamster is feeling calm and relaxed, gently run your fingers along their sides. In a healthy hamster, you should be able to easily feel their ribs, hip bones, and spine with a thin layer of fat over them. If you have to press firmly to feel these bones, or if you can’t feel them at all because of a thick layer of fat, it’s a strong indicator of excess weight. Of course, there is also the other extreme. If their bones are easily felt without any fat over them, your hamster may be underweight. This is also a serious concern that requires a vet visit. Behavioral CluesBeyond their physical appearance, your hamster’s behavior may also provide valuable clues that something is “off.” Is your hamster’s activity level dropping off? A healthy hamster is an active hamster, and a significant drop in their use of a wheel or their interest in climbing and exploring their surroundings could be a sign that their weight is making it difficult to move. Another sign they may be struggling with their weight is that they fail to keep up with their grooming needs. An overweight hamster may not be able to reach all areas of their body, resulting in a dull or unkempt coat. In more serious cases, you may even notice labored or heavy breathing after even the lightest activity. The Weight ScaleWhile visual and behavioral cues are crucial, you can use a small digital kitchen scale as a tool for monitoring your hamster’s weight over time. Weigh your hamster at the same time each week and record the results. The single number at any one time isn’t the most important data here; it’s the trends over time and the direction their weight is moving. Keep this information in a detailed journal along with any notes about behavioral changes or other signs of trouble. A sudden increase in weight could be a sign of a medical problem. A gradual increase over a few months is more likely to be a sign that your hamster would benefit from a change to their diet or daily exercise.

What Are the Most Popular Pets in the U.S.?

Anyone who wants to bring a pet into their family has a lot of options, from dogs, cats, and reptiles to rodents, horses, birds, and fish. But what are the most popular pets in the United States? Your Service Animal was curious to find out, so they ran a study to analyze data from authoritative sources and get some answers. Here are several of the interesting things they learned.

Chatty Catty? What Drives those Chirpy Vocalizations?

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