Grab a Bell Pepper and Create a Healthy Treat for Your Dog

When Stressed, People Prefer Pets Over Family and Friends

When you feel stressed, do you turn to your pets and seek comfort from them? Well, there’s nothing strange or odd about that. Mars and Calm teamed up to conduct a survey of 30,000 pet parents, and they found that more than half of them would rather spend time with their pets when they want to get away from their troubles. Keep reading to learn more about their findings.

Having a Cute Pet Could Attract People to Your Airbnb

If you own an Airbnb and want to generate more income by attracting more renters, consider getting a pet. According to Lu Lu, who is an associate professor at Temple University, having a cute pet may influence people to book a stay with you. Keep reading to learn about this interesting research.

Why Your Dog Loves to Carry Random Things

If you’ve ever watched a dog proudly parade through the house with a shoe, a stick, or even a TV remote in their mouth, you’re not alone. Many dogs have a natural tendency to pick up and carry random objects, leaving owners both amused and puzzled. While it might look like a quirky habit, this behavior actually has deep roots in instinct, psychology, and even love.

Flea and Tick Season Is Here: How to Protect Your Pets

As spring arrives and the days grow warmer, most of us start spending more time outdoors - and so do our pets. Long walks, backyard lounging, hiking adventures, and open windows become the norm. But with all that sunshine and fresh air comes something a little less welcome: flea and tick season.

3 Things That Might Be Causing Your Dog To Dig Up Your Yard

If you’re a dog owner who’s ever walked outside to find craters scattered across your lawn, you’re not alone. Digging is a natural behavior for dogs, but it can quickly become frustrating. Before you can put a stop to the behavior, it helps to understand why your dog might be digging. Here are three of the most common reasons.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Stocky Swimming Bulldog Raises Questions on Social Media

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

Gardening Tips for Pet Parents

When spring returns, it’s the right time to get outside and start tending to your garden. But if you have pets who will be out there with you, it’s important to know that there are many hazards that can pose a risk to their health.

Nationwide Pet Insurance Reveals Most Common Claims

Have you ever wondered what the most common causes of veterinary visits are? Well, pet insurance companies that receive claims when pets visit the vet are a good source for answers. Nationwide is one of many insurance companies that offer pet insurance plans, and they have over one million insured pets in their database. When they analyzed their data, they were able to figure out the top problems that cause dogs and cats to visit their vets. Below is a breakdown of what they found.  

Study Confirms Pets Are Better Social Media Influencers than People

Social media accounts of cats and dogs promoting products have an upper hand when it comes to trustworthiness, a new study shows. In recent years, our four-legged companions have become extremely popular on social media. Some are so popular that they have amassed millions of followers on their social media accounts. This trend has created a new word - petfluencer, a domestic animal that has a dedicated social media account where its owner posts about it. Some petfluencers have become famous, generating an impressive income. The world’s richest cat, Nala, is probably the best example. With 4.4 million followers on Instagram, Nala Cat has an estimated net worth of $100 million.But what makes cats and dogs better influencers than people? A new study found that petfluencers have an unexpected edge over human influencers in terms of trustworthiness. The study, published in The Journal of Advertising Research, examines how animals’ endorsements of brands, as seen in petfluencer accounts, affect consumer response. Researchers from the University of Strathclyde in Scotland analyzed what makes petfluencers successful by comparing them to human influencers. For this study, researchers created fictional advertisements for products like peanut butter and wine. When these advertisements were shown to an audience, the results were surprising, but clear - petfluencer has surpassed the human influencer in terms of consumer response.The study also found petfluencers to be even more effective when their message matched a consumer’s focus on immediate satisfaction and pleasure. Researchers also discovered that the number of sponsored posts affects an influencer’s perceived sincerity. As the number of sponsored posts by human influencers increases, their perceived sincerity is declining, likely because of “influencer fatigue”.Human influencers are often seen in a negative light if their persuasive intent is clearer if people believe they endorse products and brands they don’t use or believe in just to get paid. According to the researchers, this is most likely the reason why petfluencers could be a good alternative for more sincere endorsements. On the other hand, pets aren’t obsessed with material things and offer a more genuine alternative to human influencers, and brands have started to notice their value. More advertising agencies are turning to petfluencers to promote brands, and they often earn as much as their human counterparts. “Petfluencers offer distinct advantages compared to human social media influencers,” said Dr. Laura Laverty, study author and lecturer in Marketing at the University of Strathclyde. “While the persuasiveness of human influencers often stems from their relatability or aspirational appeal, petfluencers are seen as more genuine and sincere. Because they are pets, they have no hidden agenda,” she explained.Pets don’t come with the baggage or scandals that follow some human influencers, which makes them seem more trustworthy. Although petfluencer accounts may appear like they are managed by the pets themselves, they are often run transparently by the pet’s owner. Like human influencers, petfluencers often work with advertising agencies to handle brand partnerships, while staying in charge of the type of content they post. Famous petfluencers like Nala Cat are in high demand and endorse a large number of products. For example, Nala the cat recommends an array of products, from cat food to mobile games. The research team believes future studies will validate their findings and explore the growing presence and influence of pets in social media. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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.

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

Why Crufts and Westminster Will Never See a Dog Named Rover

Ever wonder how those pure-bred dogs got their lofty names?

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

What Does Your Cat's Poop Reveal About Their Health?

Every day, countless cat parents do the not-so-pleasant job of scooping the litter box. While this routine task may not be the most glamorous, your cat’s box holds a wealth of information about their inner workings and overall health.Paying just a little attention to what they leave behind may reveal subtle clues that speak volumes about their well-being.In this post, I will share the knowledge you need to decipher the unspoken language of the litter box, including helping you understand what constitutes a healthy deposit and, more importantly, when something may be “off” or warrant a call to your veterinarian.Familiarizing yourself with what to look for and when to be concerned is the key to a happier, healthier life for your best friend.What is Considered “Normal” Cat Poop?Recognizing when something isn’t right based on your cat’s litter box starts with understanding what is considered “normal.” There are several key characteristics that you can expect to see when looking at health cat poop, indicating a well-functioning digestive system.Consistency is KeyIdeally, your cat’s stool should be firm and log-shaped, holding its form well when scooped. The texture should be moist, like the texture of modeling clay or even a well-formed sausage. This consistency is important as it means the food is being properly digested and there’s a healthy balance of water absorption in the intestines, resulting in poop that is easy and comfortable to pass through the digestive tract.The Right ColorThe expected color for healthy cat poop falls into a spectrum that ranges from medium to dark brown. This comes primarily from the natural breakdown of food within the digestive system and the presence of bile, the key digestive fluid produced by the liver.It is worth noting that slight color variations can happen due to the foods included in your cat’s diet. For example, certain foods may cause the poop to be slightly lighter or darker brown, which is usually nothing to be concerned about as long as other characteristics on this list remain normal. If you do notice a slight change of color, take a moment to consider whether your cat has eaten something new recently that could be behind that shift.Size MattersThe typical size of a healthy stool for your cat will correlate with their overall size and the amount they eat, meaning that it will vary slightly from cat to cat. Even within my own home, with three cats, we have three different “normals” to consider.By consistently observing your cat’s waste when cleaning the box, you will familiarize yourself with what is normal for them, allowing you to notice if their waste is slightly smaller or larger than usual, which can be a subtle sign of an underlying issue. Very small stools may suggest that your cat is eating less than usual or they are experiencing a slower digestion rate than normal. Consistently large stools could point towards dietary imbalances or improper absorption of nutrients.Something Smells “Off”Let’s be honest, all poop has an odor, and it’s not an odor we generally get excited about. However, healthy cat poop shouldn’t have an overwhelmingly foul or offensive smell. While you won’t be mistaking your cat’s litter box for roses anytime soon, even if they are 100% healthy, a sudden and significant worsening of that smell can be a red flag. This may signal bacterial overgrowth in the digestive tract or digestive upset. Trust your nose – if the smell seems noticeably different and concerning, it’s worth taking note and investigating further.Frequency and HabitsMost cats will typically have a bowel movement once or twice a day. This is considered “normal” and indicates that their digestive system is operating as it should. Still, it can vary slightly from cat to cat based on factors such as their diet, activity levels, and overall metabolism. Monitoring your cat’s bathroom habits can help you establish what’s normal for them, arming you with the information necessary to recognize if something’s “off.”A significant and persistent change in their usual bathroom habits, whether it’s going much more or much less often, is a red flag worth paying attention to.Red Flags in Your Cat’s Litter BoxWhile understanding what healthy poop looks like will give you a baseline, you will need to fine tune your observation skills to be able to recognize when something has changed, even subtly. Certain changes in consistency, color, contents, odor, frequency, or volume may signal underlying issues that need to be addressed or even a need for a visit to the veterinarian ASAP.Here are a few of the red flags you should be on the lookout for in more detail:Changes in ConsistencyOne of the most common changes you may notice is diarrhea, which can manifest in several forms. It may appear watery, very loose, or have a soft, puddling-like consistency. Several factors can contribute to diarrhea in cats. Often, it is the result of eating something they shouldn’t. However, stress, parasites (such as roundworms, hookworms, or Giardia), bacterial or viral infections, food sensitivities or allergies, and even underlying medical conditions can impact the digestive tract.It's also important to keep in mind that diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration, especially in vulnerable populations like kittens and senior cats, making prompt attention critical.On the opposite end of the spectrum is constipation, characterized by hard, dry pellets or infrequent and often strained attempts to go. You may notice your cat making repeated trips to the litter box without producing much or showing signs of discomfort when trying.Dehydration is also a significant contributor to constipation, as is a diet lacking the necessary fiber your cat requires. Hairballs, particularly in long-haired breeds, can also cause blockages. Other potential causes include obesity, pain (making it uncomfortable to get into position to go), neurological issues, and, in severe cases, a condition called megacolon, where the colon becomes enlarged and loses its ability to contract and move the stool along effectively. Constipation can be pretty uncomfortable for your cat and, if left untreated, can lead to serious medical problems.

Genetic Research Aims to Improve Health of Working Farm Dogs

While many of us share our lives with our beloved pets, companions who fill our lives and homes with joy, there’s an entire population of dogs whose dedication extends beyond the backyard: the working farm dogs. These unsung heroes of the farming world put in long, hard hours, and just like our own pets, they deserve the best possible care. That’s why a groundbreaking research initiative in New Zealand is making headlines.Scientists are working to unlock the genetic secrets that can improve the health and performance of these working dogs, ultimately leading to a better quality of life. This is being done through a three-year project at Massey University, named “ The Right Dog for the Job.” Supported by industry partners and the Ministry for Primary Industries, the researchers have recently hit a significant milestone: the whole-genome sequencing of 249 dogs. This extensive work and analysis have uncovered a staggering 19 million DNA variations within the sampled population, which include 130 huntaways, 104 heading dogs, and 15 crossbreeds. While the impressively large number of variations may sound complex and overwhelming, the project's ultimate goal is straightforward: to provide farmers and breeders with valuable information to make informed breeding decisions, leading to healthier and more capable work dogs. The research aims to pinpoint genetic variants (differences in DNA sequences) that could impact a dog’s health or ability to perform these demanding jobs. Professor Matt Littlejohn, who leads the research team, explained that while they could make educated guesses about which variants may be present in farm dogs based on their lineage (such as the influence of border collies), the genome sequencing allows them to know for sure. And, as it turns out, it uncovered a few interesting surprises! Two unexpected findings stood out: the prevalence of variants in the CUBN and CLN8 genes. The CUBN variant is linked to vitamin B12 malabsorption, which can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. Thankfully, this condition can be managed with treatment, making this proactive testing a valuable tool. The CLN8 variant, on the other hand, is associated with a severe neurodegenerative disorder causing loss of motor function, seizures, and blindness, often leading to euthanasia. While the percentage of animals carrying this variation wasn’t extremely high (between 2% and 8% of dogs tested), their frequency in New Zealand farm dogs was higher than observed in many other international breeds. It's important to understand that these genetic variants are recessive. This means that a dog must inherit two copies of the muted gene, one from each parent, to develop the associated health issues. Dogs carrying only one copy are known as carriers and don’t show any symptoms themselves. Awareness of which dogs are carrying these variants can help breeders make informed decisions on which dogs are fit for breeding, significantly minimizing the risk of producing puppies suffering from these genetic diseases. This not only improves the health and well-being of individual dogs but also contributes to the overall resilience of these working breeds. In its next stage, the project will involve collecting even more DNA samples and working closely with farmers and veterinarians to gather data on both health and working performance traits. It will also focus on identifying genetic variants unique to New Zealand farm dogs, with the initial findings being genetic variants known from other breeds. The “Right Dog for the Job” project is a testament to the commitment to providing these hard-working animals the best possible quality of life! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Are Weighted Blankets Good for Dogs?

Weighted blankets have become popular for their ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation in humans. These blankets apply gentle, even pressure, mimicking the feeling of a hug or deep touch therapy. Many pet owners wonder if weighted blankets can provide similar benefits for their dogs. While some dogs may find them comforting, there are also potential risks to consider. Here’s what you need to know.Benefits of Weighted Blankets for DogsAnxiety ReliefDogs that experience anxiety from thunderstorms, fireworks, separation, or other stressors may benefit from the gentle compression of a weighted blanket. Similar to a Thundershirt, the even pressure can create a sense of security, helping to soothe nervous or anxious dogs.

How To Stop Your Cat From Catching Wildlife

(photo credit: Klimek Pavol / shutterstock.com)Those of us with indoor cats and a deck or backyard will almost certainly find it hard to curtail our feline’s natural desire to sit outside, take in some sun, and chase every leaf that blows or flutters. Mine are content to remain in their backyard and imagine they could actually catch the squirrels and birds that float in and out of their world. They couldn’t if they tried but the problem is, that once upon a time they could. And many cats are in fact stealthy hunters that can bring home their wildlife “catch” on a rather regular basis.It's disturbing for us, can impact the ecosystem that surrounds us, and is unnecessary for the cat given they have all the food they need, sitting in a nice little bowl beside the kitchen door. They’re not hunting out of hunger but out of sport.So, how do you prevent your cat from engaging in such predatory behavior? There are a couple of tricks that range from hampering their ability to catch prey to ensuring area wildlife is not made vulnerable to discouraging the cat’s need / desire to hunt and kill.Eliminate OpportunitiesBecause felines tend to be opportunistic hunters who will pursue anything that catches their eye, it helps to know how to avoid this type of meet-up. One of the most obvious ways to prevent such encounters is to understand how and when they’re most likely to occur.Spring and summer are prime prey seasons because baby birds are learning to fly and tend to flutter to the ground - where they’re now highly vulnerable. So, keep your cats indoors, on a leash, or consider using a cat enclosure or pen during these times of the year.Similarly, when light levels are low during early morning and early dusk, wildlife is vulnerable because that’s when rodents and birds tend to be outside of their nests or dens, actively searching for food. The lesson here? Schedule little FiFi’s outdoor jaunts to daylight hours when you can monitor activity.And when setting up bird feed stations, it’s recommended to keep them at least six to seven feet away from thick shrubbery where cats can hide and lay in wait. And, to invest in a no-spill bird feeder option that minimizes the seed spillover that causes birds to fly down to the ground to pick up bits and pieces.

Dogs Are Helping People Deal With Stress More Than Expected

If you’ve ever found your shoulders unknotted simply by petting your dog after a long day, you’re definitely not alone. But now science at the University of Denver is showing just how powerful that furry comfort can be.A new study led by the University of Denver’s Institute for Human‑Animal Connection (IHAC) has uncovered something pretty remarkable: pet dogs don’t just reduce stress, they actually help regulate it in a more nuanced, biological way than researchers expected.Researchers recruited 44 dog‑owning participants and randomly assigned them to two groups. One group brought their dog to a mildly stressful lab test, and the other group faced it alone. The test involved giving a job‑interview style speech and doing mental math under pressure.During the study, researchers measured heart rate, salivary cortisol, and alpha‑amylase (a stress enzyme), and had participants rate their anxiety. What they found was pretty fascinating! Although both groups saw increases in stress, those with their dogs present had significantly lower spikes in heart rate and cortisol. Heart rate rose about 14.6% with dogs present vs. 26.7% without. And cortisol responses were more than 50% lower when a dog was by your side.What surprised researchers is that salivary alpha‑amylase actually only rose in the dog group, by 97.6%, suggesting not just suppression of stress, but a healthy, balanced response. Participants in the dog‑present group sometimes ended with cortisol levels even lower after recovery than when they first arrived. A sign of faster stress recovery.According to IHAC communicators, “dogs may be able to support a balanced, intermediate stress response. Instead of just reducing the stress response, a dog can actually help to maintain regular stress levels”.Although participants didn’t report significantly less anxiety in self‑ratings (that metric was about the same whether the dog was present or not), the physiological signs tell a different story. It turns out our heart, our hormones, and even specific enzymes respond better when our dogs are with us, even if our minds think otherwise.This study breaks ground by measuring several biological systems at once, something previous research lacked. IHAC hopes to expand this work, exploring whether dogs might help with chronic stress, anxiety disorders, or recovery from trauma. In fact, upcoming work from DU researchers will look at service dogs with veterans dealing with PTSD, mapping long‑term hormone changes and even protein biomarkers over months of pairing.The goal is ambitious yet relatable: uncovering how dogs, our partners, confidants, and fluffy overlords shape our bodies’ stress responses, not just our minds.So what’s the practical takeaway? Even on hectic days, carve out a few minutes to connect with your dog. Sit on the couch together, take a short walk, or let them curl up beside you while you breathe deeply. It’s not just sweet, it might actually cut your cortisol and keep your heart rate steadier.And if someone ever downplays your pup’s value beyond fetch games or cuteness? Share the facts. Dogs are scientifically shown to be better at regulating stress than parents, partners, or close friends in some respects, and just as helpful on our toughest days.So next time someone says your dog is just a pet, smile knowingly. You're not only living with a furry companion, you might be living with your best therapist yet.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.