3 Fun DIY Cat Toys You Can Easily Make at Home

It's Barbecue Season! Let's Keep Our Pets Safe.

From what to eat, what not to eat, and how to avoid injury, backyard grilling with a pet nearby requires a little extra caution.

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

5 Great Dog Breeds for New Dog Owners Over 50

Let’s be real—getting a dog later in life can be one of the best decisions ever. You’ve got more time, more patience, and possibly a little more money to spend on fancy dog jumpers (no judgment—I’ve done it). But if you’re brand new to the dog world, the idea of choosing a breed can feel a bit… overwhelming.You want a pup who’s friendly, manageable, and won’t redecorate your living room by chewing the sofa cushions into modern art.So here’s my list of five dog breeds that are generally a good fit for beginners over 50. (Bonus: most of them are sofa-friendly snuggle experts.)

How Long Do Pet Rats Usually Live?

Pet rats are smart, affectionate, and highly social animals that make rewarding companions. But before bringing one home, it’s natural to wonder: How long do pet rats live? While they don’t have the longest lifespans, understanding what affects their longevity - and how to support their health - can help you make the most of your time together.Average Lifespan of a Pet RatMost pet rats live between 2 to 3 years. Some may reach 4 years, but this is relatively rare. Their short lifespan is part of their biology, and while it can be difficult for owners, it also means you’ll get to see them grow from curious youngsters to mature adults in just a few short years.Males and females generally have similar lifespans, though females may occasionally live slightly longer.Rats from reputable breeders often live longer and have fewer health issues than those from pet stores or backyard breeders.What Affects a Rat’s Lifespan?Several factors can influence how long a rat lives, many of which are within your control.GeneticsJust like in people, genetics plays a big role. Rats from responsible breeders are more likely to have strong immune systems and fewer inherited health problems.DietRats need a balanced diet that includes:A base of high-quality commercial rat foodFresh fruits and vegetablesOccasional lean protein or healthy treatsAvoid sugary, fatty, or highly processed foods as they can lead to obesity or other health issues.

Relic the German Shepherd Named 2025 Rescue Dog of the Year

In a heartwarming tale highlighting the power of patience, training, and a loving foster home, a six-year-old German Shepherd named Relic has been named the Pedigree Foundation’s 2025 Rescue Dog of the Year. Relic’s journey from a stressed and nervous shelter dog to a beloved family member is a true happy ending. It’s a testament to the commitment of dedicated shelter workers like those at East Bay SPCA and the impact of a loving foster home. Relic’s story began at the East Bay SPCA in Oakland, California. When he arrived at the shelter, he was already showing signs of shelter stress – a bad omen for many in overcrowded shelters waiting for their forever home. But, the shelter staff saw potential in Relic, creating a plan of action that would set him up for success and keep him from being another statistic.  This plan included moving him into a private setting for specialized care and training while searching for the ideal foster home where he would thrive with personalized support. Finding the right foster home was easier than they anticipated. A couple who had recently lost their beloved cat of 15 years had contacted the shelter with the intention of fostering, opening their hearts and home to Relic and his ongoing care. “The house felt empty without him (the cat), but we weren’t quite ready to open our home to another pet,” the couple shared in a firsthand account of Relic’s story on the shelter’s website. “We thought fostering at the East Bay SPCA might be a nice way to have pets in the home without committing to it full-time and be able to provide a needed break from the shelter for a deserving pet.” They thought they were only taking Relic home for a week or two, but the Universe clearly had other plans… Despite having no prior experience with a reactive dog, the couple quickly learned, with the support of shelter staff and an in-house trainer, how to work through the challenges. Under their care, the once-nervous dog began to blossom, and a playful, affectionate personality emerged – a personality the couple quickly fell in love with. In fact, they fell so in love with the newest addition to their home that they couldn’t let him go, making the decision to adopt him. “Relic is a loyal, good natured dog who is well behaved around the house and a sweet cuddler when we let him up onto the bed with us,” the couple described. “He takes up a lot more space in the house than our cat did and it took some adjusting to, but we love having him around now and can’t imagine our home without him.” Today, Relic is living his best life in his forever home. He enjoys cuddling on the bed and playing with his favorite toys. The couple says he has befriended the neighbor’s dog, enjoying regular walks together. To celebrate Relic’s crowning achievement, the Pedigree Foundation has created a limited-edition plush toy in his likeness. It’s available for purchase at the Dogs Rule store, with a portion of the proceeds supporting their efforts to provide rescue grants and help dogs find loving homes through the organization's ongoing work.   Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Stocky Swimming Bulldog Raises Questions on Social Media

Ideal solution for joint health or possible danger to flat-faced breed.

Cat Owners Spend Over $22,000 to Find Their Missing Pet

A German couple hasn’t lost hope and is still looking for their cat, which has been missing for nearly a year. Rafael and Monika Klajnszmit were traveling from their home in Eschwege to Bavaria in July 2024 when their black cat, named Nero, went missing in Erlangen.“I wanted to spend my vacation with my wife in Chiemgau. She was in rehab there. I stopped at a hotel in Erlangen. Then Nero jumped out of his transport box and ran away,” said Rafael. In the months following their cat’s disappearance, the couple has spent over $22,000 on their efforts to find Nero and bring him home. They have spent hundreds of dollars on gas and hotels as they make a 300-mile round trip from their home in Eschwege to Erlangen each weekend. They’ve also bought special cameras, food bowls, and Nero’s favorite food - tuna. So far, Rafael and Monica have put up about 10,000 missing cat posters, knocked on doors, and enlisted the help of local volunteers, who ensure all eight food bowls are always full of tuna. Rafael provided microchip readers to volunteers so they could scan all black cats they came across in the city. “They are on standby day and night, every hour if I call them, they’ll get in the car and drive to read out the chip,” Rafael told the Times. But so far, they were out of luck. Not everyone in Erlengen was so forthcoming, and the couple’s search efforts were met with some resistance from the locals who weren’t happy with flyers being hung up. Instead, Rafael and Monica had to physically hand out posters to people on the street. According to Rafael, Nero’s shy personality could be the thing preventing the cat from being found. “He’s not the kind of cat who goes up to people to get stroked,” he explained. “I can imagine he’s so scared that he only moves around at night.” To maximize their search efforts, the couple took to social media and set up a Facebook page called Nero - ein bub velrolen in Erlangen, which translates to Nero - a boy lost in Erlangen. At this time, the page has more than 4,000 followers and 2,500 likes. There, the couple shares updates and pictures of their furry companion in hopes someone in the area will recognize their cat and help bring him home. “He means a lot to me. He’s a friend and a member of the family. And you don’t abandon your friends,” said Rafael. “ I’m not giving up. I know he’s still alive.”He explained that Nero is chipped, and if he were found dead, the owners would have been notified. “The vets and the motorway maintenance department say that when a dead animal is retrieved, the chip is read.”Talking about anyone who might come across Nero or another cat, Rafael added, “We can only ask people to secure the cat, take it to the vet, and get the chip checked. It might not be Nero, but there are many missing cats and a lot can be rescued in this way.” In a Facebook post, Rafael wrote that he’s very happy that now many English-speaking people, particularly students, in Erlangen have heard about Nero and may have unknowingly become a part of his story, maybe even someone saw him or sheltered him. I’m deeply touched to see how far his story has already reached, across national borders. People all over the world are wondering where Nero might be.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why Does My Pet Stare at Me While I’m Eating?

So here I was, minding my own business, eating a perfectly ordinary sandwich on the sofa, when I felt it: the stare.You know the one.I looked up… and there was Jasper. Sitting silently. Eyes locked on my every move. Not blinking. Not breathing (probably). Just channeling all his hope, energy, and emotional manipulation into my tuna melt.And the worst part? I felt guilty.Like I was doing something deeply selfish by… eating my own lunch?If you’ve ever found yourself apologizing to your pet mid-bite or accidentally dropping a bit of food you “definitely didn’t mean to share,” you’re not alone. So let’s talk about it: why do our pets stare at us like they’re starring in a heartbreaking indie film while we eat?

Cat Missing For 13 Years Returns Home to Spend Final Days with Family

Back in 2012, Jade Yhnell’s cat, Minx, went missing. One day she was there, the next Minx was gone. Jade had raised Minx from birth, bottle-fed and spoiled like most well-loved cats, and then just before Jade moved from Bristol to Tredegar, the little tabby slipped away.The family searched for their cat, posted posters, called all vets in the area, and took countless walks around the neighborhood. But nothing turned up. Eventually, life moved on. Jade and her partner settled into a new place and started a family.Thirteen years later, out of nowhere, Jade received a call.A veterinary clinic in Fishguard had taken in a scruffy, underweight cat that was found wandering. Although they didn’t expect the cat to be microchipped, they scanned for a chip anyway, as they always do. To everyone’s shock, they found that the cat was, in fact, chipped and that her name is Minx.Jade says she froze when she heard. Could it really be Minx? After all this time?She and her husband jumped in the car and drove for over two hours to get there. “I couldn’t stop shaking,” she told reporters. She didn’t know what to expect. Thirteen years is a long time, even in cat years, it’s a lifetime.But as soon as Jade stepped into the room, Minx walked up to her. She rubbed her face against Jade, purred, and head-butted like she used to. And then she did the same to Jade’s husband. Like no time had passed at all.Jade and her husband brought Minx home that very day.Minx had clearly been through a lot. She was thin, and her fur was matted, but she purred constantly. She met Jade’s kids, who hadn’t even been born when she disappeared, and nestled into their laps like she’d always been part of the family. “She came back to us for a reason,” Jade said. “I think she wanted to say goodbye properly.”Unfortunately, it turned out Minx had cancer. Jade didn’t say how long they had with her, but it wasn’t long. For the few weeks they had together, the family made sure Minx had all the comforts in the world. She slept in a warm bed again, had chin scratches, soft food, and little hands petting her head. She purred until the end.Stories like this are rare, but they aren’t impossible. Cats go missing all the time, and some of them, somehow, find their way back. Whether someone took her in or she wandered for years, no one knows what Minx lived through. What’s clear is that she survived, and somehow, she got back to where she was supposed to be.But if Minx hadn’t been microchipped, there would’ve been no reunion, no last days filled with love. That small chip is the only reason Jade got that phone call. It’s easy to forget how important microchipping is, but stories like this drive it home. If your pets aren’t chipped, now is the time to do it. You never think you’ll need it until you do.It’s hard to believe that this family got their cat back after thirteen years. It’s almost too much to believe. But pets have a funny way of surprising us. They disappear, and we prepare ourselves for the worst. But sometimes, against the odds, they come back, just in time to remind us how much they were loved.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Shelter Dog Adopted and Returned Twice for Being Too Playful

A North Carolina shelter dog was returned by potential new owners not once, but twice, because he was deemed too playful!DJ, believed to be one year old, was in a high-intake shelter in North Carolina earlier this year, before being transferred to the SPCA of Wake County. Although no one knows what happened to this pooch before, it’s clear DJ has a lot of love to give.According to Samantha Ranlet, communications manager at the SPCA of Wake County, DJ is an adorable goofball who has never had a negative thought about anybody. “DJ lives in a world full of rainbows and sunshine,” said Ranlet. “Our staff spends a lot of enrichment time with him outside in the kiddie pool or playing with the hose - not only to keep him cool in the heat but because he lights up when he gets to play in the water.”Finding DJ a home didn’t seem to be difficult since he was adopted fast. Unfortunately for DJ, his new owners returned him to the shelter because they couldn’t manage his energy and friendliness.It wasn’t long before DJ was adopted again, and the shelter’s staff believed he got a second chance at a good life. However, just two days after the adoption, DJ’s new owners returned him to the shelter.“He’d been in that home for two days during a trial adoption period, which gives families a chance to see how the pet fits into their home before finalizing anything. He was returned because he was trying to befriend their cats, and the cats didn’t appreciate his offers of friendship,” said Ranlet.The Wake County SPCA shared in a Facebook post that DJ was available for adoption after being returned for a second time by new owners.“DJ’s been returned twice for being too playful with other animals in the home. He wants to be friends sooooo badly, but unfortunately, his high energy, goofy antics, and in-your-face play style haven’t meshed well with calmer companions,” the shelter wrote, adding that this spirited pooch isn’t the right fit for everyone. “Now he’s back here with us, and we are on a mission - to find him a forever home and a dork-astic animal friend who can keep up with his little-legged zoomies,” the shelter added. After his second failed adoption, everyone at the shelter was heartbroken to see the energetic pooch back again. However, DJ didn’t dwell on the past and was back outside playing in the pool the same day.Soon after he arrived at the shelter, DJ was prescribed trazodone, an antidepressant medicine often given to people for anxiety and insomnia. The treatment was of great help for DJ, who has struggled with the unpredictability of shelter life.“DJ’s energy and anxiety were in overdrive when he first arrived at the shelter, but we’ve discovered that he’s much happier on a medication called trazodone. These meds help him go from a frightened fella that hunches and startles at the sound of the door opening to a lively, playful pup who loves flopping around in the pool.”While DJ future looked bleak, not all was lost. Following the shelter’s Facebook post, the pooch was adopted again, for the third time. The pup’s new owners renamed him Nova, and with three other dogs in their home, he has plenty of friends to play with.“We explained to his new family the reasons he’d been returned before, so they knew they were signing up for a playful, energetic dog, and that was just what they were looking for,” said Ranlet. Let’s hope the third time is the charm for this lively pup!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

A Guide to Cat Coat Colors and Patterns

Cats are beautiful in so many ways, including their coat colors and patterns, of which there are many. And it isn’t just longhaired and shorthaired cats who boast a range of looks, as even hairless kitties come in various colors and patterns.

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.

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

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

Easy Tips to Help Keep Your Cat’s Teeth Healthy

Dental health is one of the most overlooked aspects of cat care, yet it’s vital to your pet’s overall well-being. Cats are masters at hiding discomfort, so dental disease can progress significantly before you even notice there’s a problem. The good news? With just a few easy habits, you can help keep your cat’s teeth clean and their mouth healthy.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

5 Foods You Should Never Feed Your Guinea Pig

Just like cats and dogs, guinea pigs can’t eat everything we can. Some foods are actually dangerous for them. In this article, we’ll look at five foods you should always keep away from your piggy. Please note, this isn’t an exhaustive list so, if you’re ever unsure, it’s best to check with a vet before giving your pet something new.

What Vaccines Does My Kitten Need?

Welcoming a kitten into your home is a joyful, heartwarming experience - and the start of a lifelong bond. But along with the cuddles and playtime, your new feline friend needs a solid foundation of care. One of the most important steps? Vaccinations.Vaccines are essential to protecting your kitten from serious - and sometimes life-threatening - illnesses. They play a vital role in keeping your pet healthy and also help prevent the spread of disease to other cats.If you're feeling a little overwhelmed, don’t worry - here’s a simple guide to the core and non-core vaccines your kitten may need, plus a general timeline to help you stay on track.Why Vaccines Matter for KittensKittens are especially vulnerable to infection because their immune systems are still developing. Vaccines work by gently training their bodies to recognize and fight off certain viruses and bacteria - before they ever encounter the real thing.In short, vaccines help your kitten build immunity, giving them a much stronger defense against common feline diseases. And by vaccinating your cat, you’re not just protecting them - you're also helping reduce the spread of disease in your local cat community.Core Vaccines: What Every Kitten NeedsCore vaccines are recommended for all kittens, regardless of whether they’ll be indoor-only or outdoor explorers. These vaccines protect against the most common and dangerous feline illnesses:1. Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper)A highly contagious (and often deadly) viral disease that causes vomiting, diarrhea, and severe dehydration. This is one of the most critical vaccines your kitten will receive.2. Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1) and Feline Calicivirus (FCV)These viruses cause upper respiratory infections, often referred to together as feline viral rhinotracheitis. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal discharge, eye irritation, and sometimes mouth ulcers. They’re very common, especially in multi-cat households or shelters.3. RabiesRabies affects the nervous system and is fatal - and it can be transmitted to humans. Vaccination is legally required in many areas, and even indoor cats need protection, as rabies can be spread by the bite of an infected animal.Non-Core Vaccines: Based on Lifestyle and RiskNon-core vaccines aren’t necessary for every cat, but they’re recommended in certain situations, especially if your kitten will be around other animals or spend time outdoors.1. Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)FeLV weakens the immune system and can lead to cancer. It spreads through close contact like grooming or sharing food and water bowls. This vaccine is often recommended for kittens, outdoor cats, or those in multi-cat homes.2. Bordetella bronchisepticaA bacterial infection that can cause respiratory issues, especially in crowded or high-stress environments like shelters or boarding facilities.3. Chlamydophila felisThis bacterium causes conjunctivitis (eye inflammation) and is most often a concern in catteries or rescue settings. Your vet may recommend it if your kitten is at higher risk.The Typical Kitten Vaccination ScheduleVaccination generally starts when kittens are around 6 to 8 weeks old, with boosters given every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 weeks of age.A typical schedule looks like this:6–8 weeks: First round of core vaccines10–12 weeks: Booster shots + possible non-core vaccines14–16 weeks: Final boosters1 year later: Booster shots (some may shift to every 3 years after this)Your vet may adjust the schedule based on your kitten’s health, lifestyle, and specific risks.A Healthy Start Begins with VaccinesGetting your kitten vaccinated is one of the best things you can do to ensure a happy, healthy future together. While it might seem like a lot at first, your veterinarian will walk you through the process and help create a personalized plan.By staying up to date on vaccinations and regular checkups, you’re giving your kitten a strong start and the best possible protection for the adventures ahead.

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

Missing Dachshund Found Safe after Surviving 529 Days in the Wild

After surviving more than 500 days in the wild, Valerie, an eight-pound miniature dachshund, has finally been safely rescued and reunited with her owners. The tiny pooch went missing on Kangaroo Island in South Australia in November 2023 while vacationing with her owners. Conservationists have rescued the little runaway who evaded capture for so long. “Kangala Wildlife Rescue is overjoyed to announce the successful rescue of Valerie,” the organization shared on TikTok.“After weeks of tireless effort by Kangala Wildlife Rescue volunteers and partner organizations, Valerie has been safely rescued and is fit and well,” the group said. “We are absolutely thrilled and deeply relieved that Valerie is finally safe and able to begin her transition back to her loving parents, Josh and Georgia.”The cute pup made global headlines after the rescue organization shared her story on Instagram in March. In the post, the Kangala Wildlife Rescue said that they have been looking for Valerie for months, ever since she escaped while on holiday with her owners at Stokes Bay. This remote part of Kangaroo Island is known for its rugged terrain and wildlife. Valerie's owners and the locals searched for the pooch for days after she went missing, but to no avail. While Josh and Georgia eventually abandoned the search to return home, the Kangala Wildlife Rescue volunteers continued looking for the dog.“No one believed that a little dachshund like Valerie would survive alone in the wild, but more than 12 months after she went missing, regular reports started coming in about a dachshund with a pink collar being seen about 15 kilometers from Stokes Bay,” the rescue wrote on social media. “Based on firsthand accounts and video evidence, we now know that Valerie is alive. She runs at the first sight of humans or vehicles, and despite the best efforts of dedicated island locals, Valerie has been impossible to catch.” After several reported sightings of Valerie, the rescue team was on a mission to reunite the lost pooch with her owners. Even with the help of surveillance equipment, traps, and lures, the volunteers have spent over 1,000 hours and have traveled more than 3,000 miles searching for Valerie.Recently, the rescue team began tracking and analyzing Valerie’s movement to create a plan to lure her into a secure location. The team used treats and toys from Valerie’s home to coax her into a trap. After several failed rescue attempts and one run-in with a group of possums, the rescue mission was a success. “There were many challenging moments over the past month, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who played a part in bringing Valerie home,” the group said. Valerie’s resourcefulness and resilience have surprised her owners, who have lost hope of seeing their beloved canine ever again. “We thought, instead of her surviving out in the wild, maybe someone had kind of adopted her, or she was hanging out with some other dogs and getting food because she was an absolute little princess.”Rescues and experts believe that Valerie may have eaten roadkill, dam water, or perhaps received some food from the locals. According to Poul McGreevy, a professor at the University of Sydney's Veterinary School, dogs are the greatest opportunists in the animal kingdom, and dachshunds, like all other dogs, are extremely resourceful. “Valerie’s story is a reminder that hope and determination can lead to incredible results,” shared Kangala Wildlife Rescue in a post. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.