Dog Cured of Cancer in Clinical Trial

Dog Genes Could Help Cure Cancer in Humans

There are many health benefits to owning a dog. Studies have shown that owning a dog can reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and boost immune health. And now, research revealed that dogs could help cure cancer as they have the same tumor-causing genes as humans.Researchers from the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, the University of Georgia, and the One Health Company discovered that dog and human cancers are genetically more similar than previously thought. The study, published in the Scientific Reports, looked at genomic data of 671 pet dogs with 23 common tumor types to identify genetic mutations responsible for canine cancer. These samples were compared to human tumor samples to identify overlapping mutations.The results were astonishing! Researchers discovered many previously unknown similarities in key genetic mutations. The study revealed 18 mutational hotspots that are likely the leading causes of canine cancer, eight of which are reported in human cancers. Many of these hotspots can be treated with targeted drugs already used for human cancer patients. This means that dogs battling cancer will get access to highly effective target treatments that can replace or be used combined with traditional cancer treatments such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. The good news for human cancer patients is that scientists can use genetic data from dog tumors to advance the development of targeted cancer drugs for people. The research also discovered several previously unknown mutation hotspots in dog cancers. “This study provides the most comprehensive genomic sequencing data on canine cancers, including several previously unsequenced types, and serves as a much-needed resource for comparative oncology,” said Shaying Zhao, a co-author of the study and a professor at the University of Georgia. Researchers also discovered that TP53, the most commonly mutated gene in human cancers, is also the most frequently mutated gene in dogs. Mutations to the TP53 gene are usually associated with breast cancer, bone cancer, leukemia, and soft tissue sarcomas and cause cancer cells to grow and spread. “The results of this study show the incredible potential of combining canine cancer genomics and big data analysis to save lives on both ends of the leash,” said One Health Company CEO and study co-author Christina Lopes. “Human cancer research has been moving towards a genomics-based paradigm for decades, but research on canine cancer genomics hasn’t kept up.”In the past decade, researchers have already used data from dog cancer patients to further the development of more than 10 cancer drugs. But this study provides researchers with a bigger database and could help accelerate the treatment and research for both humans and dogs. “Now people can look at cancer and say ‘oh, this cancer looks like a cancer in a human,’ and it also has the exact same genetic mutation as this cancer in people have, let’s see what therapies work here. It’s rare in science to have a win-win scenario - a win for pets, a win for people, and a win for pet parents,” Dr. Gerald Post told Salon in an interview. It seems that better days are ahead for those battling cancer on two and four legs!

5 Reasons Why Your Dog Might Not Be Enjoying Their Walks

Walking your dog is often considered one of the simplest ways to keep them happy, healthy, and well-behaved. Yet, despite your best intentions, some dogs don’t seem to enjoy their daily strolls. If your pup seems reluctant, distracted, or stressed on walks, there could be underlying reasons. Understanding these can help you make walks more enjoyable for both of you.

5 Foods to Keep Away From Your Cat This Fall

Fall brings cozy flavors, warm spices, and delicious seasonal foods, but not all of them are safe for your feline friend. Cats are curious creatures, and it’s easy for them to sneak a bite of something they shouldn’t. To keep your pet healthy this season, here are five common fall foods you should never share with your cat. Please note this list isn't exhaustive.

How to Choose the Right Food for Your Cat

Choosing the right food for your cat can be a confusing task, especially with the endless options on the store shelves. However, the key to a healthy, happy cat starts with understanding their unique nutritional needs and how to meet them. Here's a guide to help you make the best dietary choices for your feline friend.

Can I Keep Two Hamsters Together?

It’s a common question for new hamster owners: Can two hamsters live in the same cage? While many pets enjoy companionship, hamsters are a bit different. Whether or not they can live together depends heavily on the species, their individual temperaments, and how they’re introduced. In many cases, housing two hamsters together can lead to stress, fighting, and even serious injury - so it’s important to know what you’re getting into.Species Matters MostThe first thing to consider is what type of hamster you have. Different species have very different social behaviors.Syrian hamsters (also known as golden hamsters) are strictly solitary. They must be housed alone. Even siblings raised together will usually become aggressive once they reach maturity. If housed with another hamster, they’re likely to fight - and those fights can be severe. Syrian hamsters should never share a cage.Dwarf hamsters (such as Roborovski, Campbell’s dwarf, and Winter White hamsters) are more social and can sometimes live in pairs or small groups, but not always. Even among social species, fights can and do happen.Chinese hamsters are often mistaken for dwarfs due to their small size, but behaviorally they’re closer to Syrians. They tend to be territorial and are usually better off living alone.

Gassy Dogs Go Viral on Social Media... But No So Funny to Live With

(photo credit: kukurund / shutterstock.com)Okay, I agree those gassy dog videos on sites like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok can be pretty funny to watch. And clearly, the pet owner finds their dog’s flatulence to have a certain entertainment value, hence their determination to wait, watch, record and then post the big event. Viewers love it… so what’s the problem?While those noisy outbursts are to be expected from time to time with any pooch, it should be a bit more of a concern if your dog’s gassiness can empty a room on a regular basis. In fact, it might require you to consider changing up his lifestyle. While he will no longer be that frequent-tooting media sensation, he may be healthier and a heck of a lot more comfortable.Identify the Cause / Eliminate the GassinessNow, you may be surprised to learn that a dog will typically pass gas between 15 and 20 times a day. For the most part, it’s silent and odorless, with only the odd one actually making it to Insta-worthy status. But if you find his flatulence is chronic and more “pronounced,” it may be time to explore potential causes and solutions, particularly if this is a new behavior that’s taking place more frequently versus just once or twice every few days.Potential causes of heavy flatulence (meaning it’s frequent, audible and seriously smelly) can include any or all of the following:

How Do I Know If My Dog Has Tapeworm?

It’s never fun to think about your dog having parasites, but unfortunately, they’re a common part of pet ownership - especially when it comes to tapeworms. These flat, segmented parasites like to take up residence in a dog’s intestines, and while they might not cause dramatic symptoms at first, they’re definitely something to catch and treat as early as possible. So how can you tell if your dog has tapeworm? Here’s what to watch for and what to do next.Spotting the Signs: What Tapeworms Look LikeOne of the clearest signs your dog has tapeworms doesn’t come from their behavior - it comes from what you see. Tapeworms often break into segments, and those segments exit the body through your dog’s poop or around their anus.They look like:Tiny white or beige rice-like grainsDried yellow specks stuck to fur around the rearWriggling flat pieces in fresh stoolIf you see something that matches this description, it’s time to call the vet.Other Signs Your Dog Might Have TapewormsWhile many dogs don’t show strong symptoms at first, some do develop signs of discomfort or irritation. These can include: Scooting: Dragging their rear on the groundExcessive licking or biting at their hind endIncreased appetite without weight gainMild digestive upset, like loose stoolsIn rare cases - especially if the infestation is severe or prolonged - dogs may become lethargic, lose weight, or develop a dull coat.How Do Dogs Get Tapeworms?Most dogs get tapeworms by swallowing fleas infected with tapeworm larvae. This can happen when grooming or biting at itchy skin. It’s one reason why good flea control is essential - even if your dog isn’t scratching.Other potential sources include:Eating raw or undercooked meatScavenging on wildlife or garbageContact with contaminated environmentsGetting a DiagnosisIf you suspect your dog has tapeworms, your vet can confirm it through a stool sample. Bring a fresh sample to your appointment if possible. Sometimes visual identification of segments is enough, but lab analysis can also help identify other types of intestinal parasites.Treatment Is Simple - and EffectiveThe good news? Tapeworms are typically easy to treat with a deworming medication, usually given as a tablet or topical solution. One or two doses are often enough to clear the worms, but your vet may recommend a follow-up dose or test depending on your dog’s situation.

Budget-Friendly DIY Rabbit Enrichment Ideas for Every Bunny Parent

As a dedicated rabbit parent, your commitment to providing the very best for your furry companion is undeniable. You want them to thrive, not just survive. That is where the world of mental enrichment comes in. But why is it that when you walk the aisles of your local pet store, all the enrichment toys and products seem to be made for dogs and cats? The good news is that providing excellent enrichment doesn’t require special toys or a hefty budget. In fact, many of the most engaging toys and activities for your bunny can be created using items you have lying around your home. In this post, I’ll explain why enrichment is so important for your rabbit’s overall well-being and share a list of fun, budget-friendly ideas that will have your bunny hopping with joy in no time! When Enrichment Matters for Your BunnyWe often see trends or buzzwords pop up in the pet space, trying to convince us that something is important or necessary for our furry family members. But enrichment is more than that… It is truly a game-changer for your rabbit’s health and happiness. Here’s why: Mimicking Natural Behaviors In the wild, rabbits are high-energy creatures and are constantly on the move. They spend much of their time foraging for food, exploring their surroundings, digging intricate networks of burrows, and interacting with their environment. These aren’t just random activities; they are deeply ingrained instincts. Domestication, while providing these sweet pets with a safe and comfortable home, often limits these outlets. Confined to enclosures, even spacious ones, our pet rabbits can miss out on the mental and physical stimulation they would enjoy from these natural behaviors. By recognizing this, we can find ways to replicate these opportunities and provide safe outlets to fulfill these instinctual needs within the safety of their own home (your home). Combating Boredom and Stress Like us, our rabbits can experience boredom when they aren’t given sufficient stimulation. This lack of mental engagement can lead to a variety of negative behaviors and signs of stress. Signs of bunny boredom include: Excessive grooming, sometimes to the point of creating bald patches Lethargy Lack of interest in their surroundings Sitting hunched in a ball Persistent chewing on cage bars or inappropriate household itemsDigging in their enclosure or beddingRepetitive, seemingly aimless pacing or restlessness Out-of-character escape attempts Making a grunting noise Aggressive behaviors, including nipping or biting Enrichment provides crucial mental stimulation, offering them entertainment, puzzles to solve, new scents and textures to explore, and challenges to overcome. This reduces their boredom and promotes a calmer, more content mindset. Promoting Better Physical Health We often discuss the mental health implications of enrichment, but it also plays a vital role in promoting physical health. Encouraging movement and activity helps prevent the development of obesity, a common and growing serious health concern in domestic rabbits (and, quite honestly, nearly all pets in the US). Regular activity can be encouraged by providing enrichment opportunities, like exploring tunnels, hopping over obstacles, and reaching for hanging treats, all of which help keep their muscles strong and their cardiovascular system healthy. Some enrichment items contribute to your rabbit’s dental. A rabbit’s teeth continuously grow. In the wild, they wear down their teeth by chewing on grasses, hay, and other abrasive surfaces, but not all food provided to domesticated rabbits will fill this need. You can provide your bunny with safe and appropriate items to chew on, such as untreated wood or cardboard, to meet this need and prevent painful dental issues. Strengthening the Human-Animal Bond Engaging in enrichment activities with your rabbit is a great way to spend quality time together and strengthen that all-too-special human-animal bond. When you take the time to create a new puzzle toy, design a foraging box, or simply observe and interact with your rabbit as they explore their enrichment environment, you’re building trust and deepening your connection. Watching their curiosity and problem-solving skills in action is not only rewarding for you but also creates positive associations with your presence. These shared moments of play and discovery are a great way to boost your relationship and build the long-lasting bond we all want to enjoy with our furry family members. DIY Enrichment Ideas: Foraging Fun Foraging is a deeply ingrained natural behavior for rabbits, extending beyond simply searching for their food. In the wild, rabbits will spend much of their day searching for, selecting, and acquiring their meals. This process is highly stimulating, engaging many senses, including smell, sight, and touch. It also helps to keep their minds actively engaged. By providing opportunities for foraging in their home environment, we can tap into these instincts and give our bunnies crucial mental enrichment. Here are a few ways to create foraging opportunities at home: Treat Balls/RollersTurn simple cardboard tubes, such as those from toilet paper or paper towels, into engaging treat dispensers. Cut a few small holes in the tube and place hay or small, healthy treats inside. When given to your bunny, they will need to nudge, roll, and manipulate the tube to release the tasty rewards. Of course, you should always prioritize safety. If you are using glue, do so sparingly, or simply fold the ends of the tubes to securely keep the goodies contained. Hay Boxes/Digging Boxes Repurpose larger cardboard boxes to create stimulating digging and burrowing opportunities. Fill these boxes with rabbit-friendly textures like loose hay, shredded plain paper, or safe, untreated soil. This provides both physical activity and a chance to tap into their natural sense of curiosity and exploration. Different textures also offer a more satisfying tactile experience. Cardboard Castles/Tunnels Encourage exploration and discovery by creating simple structures from larger cardboard boxes. By cutting openings and connecting boxes, you can build tunnels, hiding spots, and multi-room “castles” that offer a change of scenery and opportunities for your rabbit to hop through, hide, and feel secure. Is your rabbit hesitant to explore their new fort? Consider using small treats to create a trail guiding them through the space. Once they have checked out and seen every corner, they will be far more likely to embrace their new castle.

How Can I Help My Cat Lose Weight?

There’s a silent epidemic quietly impacting countless cats across the United States and throughout the world: pet obesity. It’s a condition that, while seemingly harmless at first glance, can seriously impact your cat’s quality of life and shorten their precious time by your side.If you’re reading this, it’s because you’ve noticed your cat is carrying a few extra pounds as of late, and you’re concerned about the possible impact on their health and well-being. This post will help you understand why your cat’s weight matters, the tangible steps you can take to help them reach a healthy weight, and when to bring your veterinarian into the conversation.Why Your Cat’s Weight MattersIt’s easy to look at a chunky kitty and think they’re simply “cuddly” or “well-fed.” However, what might seem like a bit of extra cushion could also be a sign of a serious health concern. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about a condition where your cat’s excess body weight could negatively impact their health and well-being.So, how can you tell if your cat is carrying too much weight?Beyond just the number on the scale, there are a few visual cues you can watch out for. Ideally, you should be able to feel your cat’s ribs when you gently run your hands along their side (although they should not be noticeably sticking out). Their waist should also be noticeable, tapering slightly behind the ribs when viewed from above.They might be overweight if you can’t feel their ribs or if your cat looks more like a furry loaf than a sleek cat. This is incredibly common, with the 2022 Association for Pet Obesity Prevention survey revealing that 61% of cats are overweight or obese.The Potential Health ProblemsThe consequences of carrying extra weight extend far beyond a less active lifestyle. Obesity can trigger, or significantly contribute to, many serious health problems. Experts warn that this additional weight could impact nearly every system in your cat’s body!DiabetesJust like in humans, obesity in cats significantly increases their risk of developing diabetes. Excess body fat can make a cat’s cells resistant to insulin, the key hormone needed to regulate blood sugar. This means their body struggles to use sugar for energy, leading to high blood sugar levels.If your cat is suffering from diabetes, you may notice they are drinking more, urinating more frequently, eating more, or even losing muscle mass despite eating. More severe cases of diabetes will require lifelong insulin injections to regulate your cat’s blood sugar. If left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening complications.OsteoarthritisImagine carrying a heavy backpack all day, every day. That’s essentially what an overweight cat’s joints experience. This excess weight puts immense strain on their bones, joints, and cartilage, leading to inflammation, pain, and the development of osteoarthritis. This can make it painful to jump, climb, or even walk.Signs of arthritis in cats include:Reluctance to moveDifficulty getting up or lying downReduced activity levelsStiffnessSubtle limpThis pain can significantly reduce your cat’s comfort and overall quality of life.Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease or Other Urinary IssuesOverweight cats are more likely to develop uncomfortable and potentially dangerous urinary tract problems. Obesity can contribute to inflammation in the bladder, the formation of urinary stones, or even life-threatening blockages, most commonly seen in male cats. Signs to watch out for include straining to pee, frequent trips to the litter box with little or no result, accidents outside the litter box, or crying out in pain while attempting to go.Liver Disease (Hepatic Lipidosis or Fatty Liver Syndrome)This is a particularly serious and potentially life-threatening condition unique to cats, and overweight kitties are at a much higher risk. If an overweight cat suddenly stops eating for even a short period (due to stress, illness, or even an attempt to diet too quickly), their body starts to send its fat reserves to the liver much faster. The liver becomes overwhelmed and can’t process the fat efficiently, leading to liver failure. This is why any sudden loss of appetite, especially in an overweight cat, should be addressed with a vet appointment.Cardiovascular DiseaseCarrying extra weight means your cat’s heart has to work much harder to pump blood throughout their body. This heavy workload can lead to higher blood pressure and, over time, can lead to the development of serious heart conditions, diminishing their cardiovascular health, and potentially shortening their lifespan.Respiratory Problems Just like humans, excess fat in cats can accumulate around their chest and abdomen, restricting the ability of their lungs to expand effectively. This can make breathing difficult, especially during activity or in warm temperatures. You might notice your cat snoring more, breathing heavily after minimal activity, or even showing signs of labored breathing. Reduced Quality of Life and LongevityBeyond specific diseases, an overweight cat is generally less active, less playful, and less able to engage in natural cat behaviors like grooming themselves thoroughly. They might struggle to reach certain areas, leading to matted fur, bald spots, and skin issues. You may not be surprised to hear that research consistently shows that cats who maintain a healthy weight live significantly longer, more comfortable, and more active lives than those who are overweight or obese. Anesthetic and Surgical Risks If your cat ever needs surgery or a dental procedure requiring anesthesia, their weight may pose additional risks. Excess fat can make it more challenging for vets to administer anesthesia safely and accurately, and it can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery due to altered drug metabolism and increased strain on the vital organs.

Are Communal Water Bowls Safe for Dogs? Not Really!

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.

Is a Pot-Bellied Pig in Your Future? Read On!

What Are Signs of Illness in Pet Turtles?

Turtles are unique and fascinating pets, valued for their calm demeanor and long lifespans. However, one challenge that turtle owners face is detecting illness early. In the wild, turtles instinctively hide signs of weakness to avoid predators. As a result, pet turtles often show only subtle symptoms when they are unwell.Becoming familiar with your turtle’s normal behavior, appetite, and appearance is essential. Early identification of illness greatly improves the chances of successful treatment, so here are the key signs to watch for.Changes in AppetiteA sudden loss of appetite is often one of the earliest and most noticeable signs of illness. Healthy turtles typically eat with enthusiasm, especially when offered favored foods.If a turtle begins refusing meals, particularly favorite treats, it should be taken seriously. While minor fluctuations in appetite can occur due to changes in temperature or environment, persistent refusal to eat may signal infections, digestive issues, or stress.

Which State Leads the U.S. in Pet Adoptions?

Have you ever wondered how adoption rates differ between states in the United States? Maybe you’re curious about which states have the highest and lowest adoption rates? These are valid questions, especially since so many shelters are at capacity and desperate to find homes for all of their homeless pets.

Ice Bucket Challenge for Dogs? Not Funny and Not Safe

PETA gives two thumbs down on this viral set-up stating they consider it an "appalling betrayal" of the dog's trust.

What to Do When Your Dog Stops Eating

It’s a moment that triggers panic for nearly any pet parent who has been there before: you place your dog’s favorite food in their bowl, the one that always triggers excitement and enthusiastic tail wags, only to have them turn away in apart disinterest. Is something wrong? Should you be worried?While it’s true that as our furry family members enter their senior years, a change in appetite can sometimes happen due to the impact of aging, a loss of appetite in a healthy adult dog is a big red flag.If you’re currently facing this fear, the first step in helping your best friend get back to their happy, food-loving self is to identify the potential reason for this sudden change. This post will explore the various possibilities, outline the importance of keeping your eyes open for warning signs, and help you identify when seeking professional veterinary help is the best choice.What to Look for When Your Dog’s Appetite VanishesWhen your dog’s normally unwavering appetite suddenly disappears, you must become a keen observer – a true detective of your dog’s behavior. Every little detail could be a clue in unraveling the mystery of their newfound food aversion. There’s no one better for the job. After all, you know your dog best!Here are a few warning signs that could help you pinpoint the root of the problem:Energy Levels: Is your dog bouncing around with their usual enthusiasm, eager for walks or to play with their favorite toys? Or have they become unusually quiet and lethargic, sleeping more than usual and showing no interest in activities they typically enjoy?Behavior: Carefully observe their behavior and any uncharacteristic changes. Are they withdrawing, hiding, or seeming less engaged with your family? Are they displaying signs of anxiety, pacing, panting excessively, whining, or being unusually restless?Bodily Functions: Keep an eye on your dog’s drinking and bathroom habits. Are they drinking water normally, or have you noticed a decrease or increase in water consumption? Monitor their bathroom habits, noting the frequency, consistency, and any changes in their stool or urine.Physical Signs: Look for any signs of pain or discomfort. Are they whining, limping, guarding a specific area of their body, or reacting sensitively to touch? Have you noticed any vomiting, diarrhea, or coughing?Recent Lifestyle Changes: Have you had any recent changes that impact your dog’s environment, daily routine, or diet? Have you moved homes, gone on a trip (even if they stayed beyond), changed their feeding schedule, added a new pet to the home, had a family member move out (like a child going to college), or even introduced new food or treats?Remember, even the details that seem the most insignificant may provide valuable insights for your veterinarian. Write down your observations – I recommend starting a journal. Not only will this help you remember everything, but it will also make it easier to spot trends over a period of time. You are your dog’s best advocate, and being able to provide this insider information will be an essential piece of the puzzle.Potential Non-Medical Reasons for a Change in Appetite Sometimes, a sudden disinterest in food isn’t a red flag of an underlying medical problem, but rather, it is the result of factors related to their environment, their food itself, or even their behavior. Here are some potential non-medical reasons why your healthy adult dog might turn up their nose at their meals. Changes in Environment and Routine Dogs thrive on routine and consistency. Any disruption to their familiar world can sometimes lead to a temporary loss of appetite. A new environment, such as moving to a new home or a temporary stay at a boarding facility or a friend’s house, can be a significant source of stress and anxiety for some dogs. This stress can manifest as a change in appetite, causing them to skip a meal or two until they feel more secure in their space. Similarly, changes in your dog’s daily routine, even seemingly small ones like a late mealtime or missed walk, can throw off their internal clock and impact their eating habits. Don’t overlook the potential for external sources of stress and anxiety in their home environment. This often comes in the form of loud noises, such as thunderstorms or fireworks, but it can also be something as simple as tension and arguments within the household. Food-Related Factors While not the most common causes, there is a chance that your dog’s appetite issues lie directly with the food itself. Like us, dogs can become bored with their meals. Even if you’re feeding them the best high-quality, nutritionally balanced diet, eating the same thing day after day can become monotonous for some dogs. As the food becomes less exciting, they tend to eat less. If you notice your dog turning their nose up at an otherwise loved food, you should always check the expiration date. Spoiled food, even just slightly past its prime, can be unappetizing and even potentially harmful. A simple change in food, even if you’re switching your dog to a high-quality option, can initially cause some appetite issues. Changing food too quickly can trigger digestive upset, discouraging your pup from eating. The best way to do this is to plan for a slow and gradual introduction of the new food, mixing it with the old and slowly phasing that “old faithful” out. Check out the area where your dog is eating. A dirty food bowl or messy area leading up to the dish can be off-putting, as can a noisy or high-traffic feeding space. If your dog doesn’t feel comfortable and secure, their nerves can get the best of them. Consider setting up a clean, clutter-free, and quiet space for your dog to enjoy their mealtime. Finally, don’t overlook the treats and special snacks you give your dog throughout the day. If your dog receives a significant number of treats or table scraps, they might simply not be hungry when the time comes for a regular meal. These extra calories can quickly fill them up and make their standard food seem less appealing, but they aren’t going to meet their nutritional needs. Behavioral Reasons Sometimes, a dog’s refusal to eat can result from learned behaviors or their individual personality. Some clever dogs will quickly learn that refusing to eat will gain extra attention from their worried humans. The fussing, coaxing, and offering of tempting treats to motivate their appetite can inadvertently reinforce this behavior. In households with multiple dogs, subtle power dynamics can sometimes play a role in deciding who eats and when. A more dominant dog may actually prevent a less confident pup from eating freely, requiring controlled mealtimes. Lastly, like humans, dogs have their preferences. Your dog may simply be a fussy eater. They might have pickier, more discerning palates and be easily turned off by certain textures or smells, even if the food is fully balanced and nutritious.

5 Smart Tricks to Ease Your Dog’s Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety in dogs is more common than many pet parents realize. It can manifest as destructive behavior, excessive barking, whining, pacing, or even accidents in the house. These are all signs that your dog is struggling to cope with being left alone. Luckily, with consistency and patience, you can ease your furry friend’s distress. Here are five smart tricks to help your dog feel more secure when you're not around.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

Deaf Rescue Dog Finds New Role on the Family Farm

For many new rescue pet parents, the joy of welcoming an animal into their lives comes with the hope of companionship and connection. But what happens when a beloved pet faces a significant challenge in their new home? One heartwarming story out of Arizona is capturing the attention of animal loves across the globe, showcasing the incredible adaptability and loving nature of a deaf rescue dog who, after a little time and adjustment, found a unique and vital role on the family farm. Evie, a deaf Pitbull, was rescued by Valley of the Sun Dog Rescue after a difficult start to life. Farm owner Allison Thomison initially fostered the eight-week-old pup but soon realized that Evie had no intention of leaving – she was destined to stay. However, being completely deaf presented some initial hurdles when adapting to farm life. As Thomison shared, “I used to say that she served no purpose on the farm as she would dig holes in my garden, escape the fence to befriend the neighbor’s donkeys, swim in the cow water trough, and cause general happy havoc.” Essentially, her new dog parents viewed her as “purely ornamental,” often more of a playful disruptor than a helper. Despite these initial challenges, one of Evie’s strengths from the beginning was her sociability. She had an incredible ability to connect with others, which, in time, blossomed into a new purpose for this next chapter in her life – the sick or orphaned baby animals. When asked about Evie’s role on the farm, Thomison describes Evie’s dedication with pride in the pup’s big heart and love for others. “Evie is always caring for her baby goat, sheep, several cows, ducks, and chickens. She cleans them, follows them around, and keeps them safe.” It seems Evie has a natural talent for understanding which animals need extra attention. She will lie patiently by a sick calf, grooming it for houses, and carefully herd the young animals to safety when needed. In particular, she has a special bond with an orphaned goat named Branch, with whom she shares a particularly close bond. Thomison has shared heartwarming videos on her TikTok account ( @filmofmilkandhoney) documenting Evie’s journey from being a new rescue unsure of her place on the farm to discovering her purpose – a journey that has resonated with pet lovers around the world. One clip showcasing Evie’s newfound purpose went viral, racking up hundreds of thousands of views, over 20K likes, and more than 1K shares. Commenters on the video have been quick to praise Evie’s gentle nature and the crucial role she has adopted.