Having a Pet Can Improve Well-Being As Much As Having a Spouse

Learn How to Recognize the Early Signs of Heart Disease in Your Dog

Have you ever listened to our dog cough and wondered if it’s just a little tickle or a sign of something far more serious? As loving dog parents, we want the best for our pups. This means we’re constantly on the lookout for trouble, which can sometimes make us a little overly cautious. But when it comes to understanding the early signs of heart disease in dogs, that diligence could save a life.Early detection allows you and your veterinarian to address the problem sooner, potentially slowing the progression of the disease and giving your best friend many more happy, healthy years by your side.I understand that the thought of heart disease can be daunting, but knowledge is power! This post will guide you through the information you need to be your dog’s best advocate, including the most common types of heart conditions, early warning signs to watch out for, how heart disease is diagnosed and treated, and most importantly, the proactive steps you can take to support your dog’s heart health and prevent a problem before it starts. Common Types of Canine Heart Disease Just like humans, dogs can develop different heart conditions and heart-related illnesses, each with unique challenges and care needs. This ranges from congenital defects that were present at birth to acquired diseases that develop over time (although possibly preventable), negatively impacting the heart’s ability to function correctly. Here are some of the most common types of heart disease your dog may experience: Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)One of the most common heart-related illnesses that dogs may experience is Mitral Valve Disease (MVD), a degenerative condition that affects the heart valve that separates the left atrium and left ventricle (aka the mitral valve). This valve’s job is to prevent blood from flowing backward, keeping blood flow in the body moving as it should. As the valve deteriorates, it may start to leak, allowing blood to flow back into the atrium. Some small breed dogs are at a higher risk of developing MVD, especially as they get older. This includes Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds, and Chihuahuas. Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)Another significant heart condition in dogs that has been gaining attention lately is Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). This occurs when the heart muscle weakens and becomes enlarged, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively. It has been in the news a lot in recent years as researchers evaluate the potential links between DCM and your dog’s diet. While it was once believed that grain-free diets increased the risk, it was later found that there was no clear link between the two. In fact, many grain-free diets were found to have no link to heart problems at all. New research now focuses less on the absence of grains and more on the ingredients used to replace them. This condition is more commonly seen in large and giant breed dogs, such as Doberman Pinschers, Boxers, and Irish Wolfhounds. Congenital Heart DefectsPresent from birth, congenital heart defects can range from minor to life-threatening. The term is used to describe abnormalities in the heart’s structure, such as holes in the heart or abnormal blood vessel connections. Early detection is crucial for these conditions as some can be corrected with surgery or other interventions, while others require ongoing management. Heartworm Disease Unlike the other conditions on the list, heartworm disease isn’t caused by issues with the heart itself. This parasitic infection occurs when worms live in the heart and lungs, dramatically impacting their ability to function effectively. Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes. While it would be nearly impossible to keep your dog mosquito-free throughout their entire life, there are preventative medications that will protect them against heartworms. This is crucial for your dog’s health and well-being, as the worms can cause severe and life-threatening damage to the heart, lungs, and blood vessels, resulting in heart failure and death. Early Warnings Signs: What to Look or As I mentioned, recognizing the early signs of heart disease is key for early diagnosis and timely intervention. The sooner your dog receives the necessary veterinary care, the better their prognosis in most cases. Unfortunately, many of these warning signs are subtle and easily overlooked.Changes in Breathing One of the most common early warning signs is a change in your dog’s breathing patterns. This could include an increased respiratory rate (tachypnea) or difficulty breathing (dyspnea). To measure your dog’s respiratory rate, count the breaths they take in one minute while resting. A normal resting respiratory rate for a healthy adult dog is between 10 and 30 breaths per minute. If your dog’s rate is consistently faster than this, especially at rest, it’s a sign that something is medically wrong, and you need to contact your veterinarian. Difficulty breathing is always a red flag. This can manifest as panting excessively, especially when resting, flared nostrils, or abdominal breathing (where the abdomen moves significantly with every breath). Even if your dog’s difficulty breathing isn’t caused by heart-related issues, it is a medical emergency. A persistent cough, especially one that sounds wet or hacking, can also be a sign of trouble. A cardiac cough is often worse at night or after any physical activity, as fluid builds up in the lungs, making the issue worse. Of course, not all coughs are connected to heart issues. But if your dog’s cough is persistent and doesn’t go away, you should make an appointment to get to the root of the problem. Becoming Easily Tired or Lethargic Have you recently noticed your dog is becoming tired much easier after physical activity? Are they showing less enthusiasm for activities or play that they once enjoyed? As the heart struggles to keep up with the demands of your dog’s body, failing to pump oxygenated blood efficiently, it can decrease their stamina. They may be reluctant to play or even go for walks. In the most severe cases, a dog may faint or collapse after minimal activity.  

Study Shares Quick Trick to Getting Your Dog's Attention

Researchers found the sweet spot that captures your dogs attention and gains the results you're looking for.

New York State Bans Sale of Dogs, Cats, and Rabbits

Starting on December 15, 2024, retail pet stores will no longer be able to sell dogs, cats, and rabbits in the state of New York. Any stores that continue to sell the animals will be doing so illegally, and will be charged a penalty of up to $1,000 for each violation.

How Do I Stop My Cat from Eating the House Plants?

It’s a struggle that many cat parents have faced over time – the irresistible green temptation of munching on house plants. Your cat, that adorable fluffball of chaos (I’m looking at my cat, Pippen), may have developed a taste for our prized ferns, delicate orchards, or any other houseplant that remotely resembles a kitty salad bar.Don’t worry. This doesn’t mean you can’t keep plants in a cat-friendly home!In this article, I will address the many concerns related to houseplants and your cat, including what plants are best suited for a cat-friendly home, which toxic plants to avoid, and the steps you can take to discourage your cat from snacking on your greenery. After all, your cat’s health is priority Do Cats Eat Houseplants? Before I start discussing the many solutions and preventative steps you can take to stop your cat from snacking on your favorite houseplant, let’s start at the beginning. Why is your cat interested in eating your houseplants, anyway? These behaviors can stem from many factors, such as natural instincts, boredom, nutritional needs, or underlying medical conditions. Identifying the reason for your cat’s behaviors can often provide you with the insight necessary to decide on the most effective strategies to save your plants while keeping your cat happy and healthy. Here are a few of the most common reasons cats chow down on our indoor plants:  Natural Drive to Hunt and Forage Cats are natural hunters and foragers, skills that allowed their ancestors to survive in the wild. While our cats today are domesticated, their many survival skills are still strong. Your houseplants may be triggering a response driven by these instincts. For example, if a leaf is swaying in the wind or an insect has landed on your favorite plant, your cat may tap into this desire to “hunt” and “catch.” Nutritional NeedsWhile cats are obligate carnivores (meaning they require meat protein to survive and cannot survive off just plant matter), plants can help meet their nutritional needs. One great example of this is fiber. A wild cat’s diet contains fiber in their prey's fur, feathers, bones, and stomach contents. However, if these sources leave them in a position where their fiber needs aren’t met, they may ingest plants to naturally balance their system. Lack of Mental and Physical Enrichment One common misconception regarding cats as pets is that they are fully independent. The truth is that your cat needs to be provided with opportunities for both physical stimulation and mental enrichment to prevent struggles like boredom, stress, and anxiety. A bored cat is more likely to engage in destructive behaviors to release excess energy – including chewing on your houseplants or even digging up the soil from the pots. Texture or Taste There is a chance your houseplant is somehow enticing your cat, tempting them to want a taste. This could be an inviting scent that lures them in, or maybe your cat snuck a bite at some point due to one of the reasons above and realized that they liked the taste, returning for more. Unlike the other options, cats eating plants because they enjoy the taste or texture aren’t just engaging in an unwanted behavior – they want to eat that specific plant. Which Houseplants Are Toxic to My Cat? One of the most important things you can do as a cat parent is to familiarize yourself with the common houseplants that pose a danger to your cat. The level of toxicity that comes from eating these plants ranges from causing a minor stomach upset to potentially creating a life-threatening situation. Some of the most common houseplants that are toxic to cats include: LilyPeace lily (they are not true lilies, but are still toxic)English ivyPothosSnake PlantCutleaf PhilodendronSago PalmPoinsettiaDaffodilOleanderTulipChrysanthemumHyacinthBird of ParadiseOne of the easiest ways to avoid your cat becoming sick from eating a toxic plant is simply not to bring them into your home. There are many great cat-friendly plants and flowers you can choose to bring some life into your home while avoiding any of the plants listed above. If you are determined to have one of these plants in your home, like poinsettias, for Christmas, consider artificial plants instead of real ones.

Working from Home? Electronic Pet Toys Are Your New Best Friend.

(photo credit: Elena Yakimova / shutterstock.com)Like many of us who work from home, the call of the wild (our pets) is never far away. Whether it’s an urgent potty break, a quick stroll around the block, a morning snack, responding to a perceived emergency or just a little snuggle, they sure can eat into our productivity.Now, we all know that nothing beats one-on-one time with the fur kids but sometimes duty calls and we just can’t drop everything to be available. Which leads to… wouldn’t we all love to find a way to keep the little guy entertained and busy doing anything other than scratching at the office door or trying to climb onto our lap while we’re on a Zoom call? C’mon, be honest.The good news is that there is relief in sight and it comes in the form of the wide range of electronic toys now available to engage your pet in something other than you. They’re easy to activate, long-lasting and all you have to do is fire them up and let your cat or dog do the rest.

A Pet Kangaroo Got Lost in Texas

There are always so many stories about missing dogs, cats, and even birds, but one thing you don’t hear about is missing kangaroos. Well, it turns out that a pet kangaroo did get lost, and his owners are desperate to find him.

Great Dane Draws Ire From Fellow Plane Passengers

Claimed to be an emotional support dog, Instagram followers share their thoughts.

How to Keep Pet Hair Off Your Furniture

A cute, fluffy pet is one of the most adorable sights for animal lovers. However, that pet hair can quickly turn your home into a furry nightmare. Those pesky little hairs find their way everywhere, from couches and chairs to beds and rugs. I’ve even found it in my morning coffee!But fear not, pet owners. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can keep your furniture looking its best and enjoy a hair-free home while still sharing your space with your best friend.In this guide, I’ll explore a variety of methods to keep your furniture pet hair-free. From regular vacuuming and lint rolling to specialized pet hair removers and preventative measures, I’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your home looking its best. It’s time to learn how to banish pet hair for good…Why is Pet Hair on Your Furniture Such a Concern?For many pet parents, the idea of pet hair being found all over the house is a given. We often refer to it as “puppy glitter” in our home. However, that collection of loose hair building up in the corner of your room or on your dog’s favorite couch may introduce both practical and health concerns.If your pet’s fur is allowed to collect around your home, it could be doing long-term damage to your belongings. Pet hair can become trapped and embedded in many fabrics, contributing to early wear and tear. It may also clog your vacuum when trying to clean larger amounts. This damage may not seem like a big deal at first, but the cost of replacing these items can add up quickly!Additionally, pet hair may negatively impact your and your family's health. The fur can collect and harbor bacteria, allergens, and other contaminants, contributing to potential respiratory problems. By staying on top of the cleanliness of your home, you can ensure it’s a safe and healthy place for family, friends, and other guests.How to Prevent Pet Hair in Your HomeIf pet hair can cause so many problems, it makes sense to try to reduce or eliminate the risk wherever possible. Of course, the only way to completely prevent pet hair would be to shave your pet down and remove all pet hair from coming into the house. I don’t know about you, but I like the soft fur and unique markings my pets each have.Here are a few other steps that will help reduce the amount of pet hair collecting around your home:Keep Up with GroomingFirst (and most importantly), committing to a pet means agreeing to keep up with their grooming needs. What this looks like will vary from dog to dog. For example, double-coated dogs like Siberian Huskies, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and German Shepherds shed considerably more than other dogs of their size due to their undercoat.There are two effective ways to keep up with your dog’s grooming needs – by setting up (and sticking to) regular appointments with a professional groomer or maintaining your dog’s coat completely at home. (Spoiler: Even professionally groomed dogs should be brushed between appointments). I love using a traditional undercoat rake with my double-coated dogs to gently remove all the loose hair that builds up, especially during shedding season. Other dog parents swear by a deshedding brush or a deshedding tool like the FURminator.Don’t forget the cats! While our feline friends essentially take care of their own grooming needs, you can help ensure they are always looking and feeling their best. This is particularly important if you have a long-haired cat, like a Persian or Maine Coon, a senior cat, or a young kitten.Prioritize Good Nutrition Another important consideration as a pet parent is the current state of their diet and nutrition. Are you feeding a well-rounded diet that meets your pet’s needs? If not, you may be experiencing higher shedding levels due to deficiencies. The more fur your pet sheds around the house, the more likely you will find it gathering on your furniture. You can also use your pet’s diet to boost their health and support a healthy coat and skin with supplements. There are commercially available supplements formulated for skin and coat benefits. Alternatively, experts recommend natural supplements to reduce shedding, including fish or flax oils, extra virgin coconut oil, and brewers yeast, in addition to a balanced diet. Our pets (both dogs and cats) get Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil on every meal as a tasty boost of omega-3 fatty acids. Choose Your Furniture Strategically  When shopping for new furniture, take a moment to consider whether your new couch or chair is going to add to the problem. Many fabric options commonly used on furniture, like velvet, chenille, suede, tweed, corduroy, and silk, attract and trap pet hair. Not only does this make the pet hair in your house appear like a bigger problem, but they are also more challenging to clean. Instead, consider choosing a fabric that repels pet hair, such as leather (or faux leather), microfiber, or canvas. These materials are more tightly woven, preventing hair from getting trapped in the fibers. Most can be wiped clean of any fur with limited effort. Another thing to consider is the color of the furniture. The fur will stand out if you have dogs that shed dark fur and choose a white chair or couch. On the other end of the spectrum, if you have a white cat and decide to buy a dark-colored couch, the fur will be very noticeable. Choosing a color closer to your pet’s coat will help hide hair. Vacuum Regularly None of the tips above will magically remove any and all pet hair from your home. You will inevitably find yourself cleaning this magical pet glitter up each day. As you shop for that perfect vacuum for your home, there are two things to consider. First, many cats and dogs are afraid of the vacuum cleaner. While you will need to manage the situation, keeping your pet in a separate room when vacuuming or going through the counterconditioning process to help them overcome their fear, you can start by choosing a quieter vacuum cleaner. Secondly, not all vacuums are created the same when handling pet hair. Take time to read reviews and speak with other pet lovers to find out what vacuum options are up to the job. As a multi-pet homeowner, I have used and swear by the Shark Pet Plus Cordless Stick Vacuum for years. Use an Easy-To-Wash Slipcover or Throw If you have a couch or chair in your living room that is a pet hair magnet, buying a new couch may not be in the budget. That’s okay! Another solution is to purchase a slipcover or throw that can be used to protect the couch from excess pet hair. Choose a cover that is made from an easy-to-clean fabric. I prefer using a pet-friendly waterproof (or water-resistant) slipcover on all furniture that can be tossed in the washing machine when it’s time for a refresh. Not only does this help remove any pet hair, but it also makes it easy to clean up other pet-related messes like bathroom accidents, vomit, muddy paws, and other pet-related odors.

Why Is My Cat Avoiding the Litter Box?

Cats are known for their strong instinct for cleanliness, and most will use a litter box without issue. So, when your feline companion suddenly starts avoiding it, this can be a sign of an underlying problem. The reasons can range from medical conditions to environmental stressors, and identifying the cause is crucial for resolving the issue. Here are some of the most common reasons why your cat is avoiding the litter box.#1 Medical IssuesOne of the first things to consider is a medical condition. Cats experiencing pain or discomfort while urinating may associate the litter box with that discomfort and avoid it altogether. Common health issues that can lead to litter box avoidance include:Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) – Can cause pain, frequent urination, and accidents outside the box.Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) – Often leads to straining, frequent attempts to urinate, and licking of the genital area.Bladder Stones or Kidney Disease – May cause increased urination or discomfort.Diabetes – Can result in excessive thirst and urination, sometimes overwhelming the litter box.If your cat is exhibiting signs of discomfort, straining, or unusual urination patterns, a vet visit is essential to rule out these conditions.#2 Hygiene and Litter Box MaintenanceCats are fastidious creatures, and a dirty litter box can be a major deterrent. If the box isn’t cleaned regularly, your cat may seek alternative places to relieve itself. To maintain a clean and inviting space:Scoop the litter box daily to remove waste.Perform a full clean weekly, replacing old litter with fresh, unscented litter.Use an appropriately sized litter box—cats generally prefer a box at least 1.5 times their body length.Place the box in a quiet, low-traffic area where your cat feels safe.

Does Your Cat Need a Hygiene Trim? Quite Possibly!

Are Some Toys Better For Senior Dogs? Yes!

(photo credit: Ryan Brix / shutterstock.com)When we think of aging pets, we envision dogs that have slowed down a little, love to nap and prefer to settle into a sunny spot over a vigorous walk. I admit that these days, my 13- and 15-year-old Schnoodles are less inclined to get excited when I pick up their leash than they were just a couple of years back. So, their outings are shorter and treats are doled out as a reward for making the effort when we return home.But there’s so much more to your pet’s aging than just a slower gait and desire to curl up and snooze away the afternoon. Vision starts to fade, hearing is not quite so acute and often, their teeth and gums begin to cause problems.That said, every so often we see the puppy come out when they get excited about something special – a high-value treat, another dog, your return from work, or a fun new toy that he can still enjoy despite his physical limitations. And those are the moments we want to continue creating by adapting their arsenal of playthings to meet their changing needs.

Cats Could Play a Role as Therapy Animals

Could cats become more common in animal-assisted services and therapy work? Keep reading to learn about some recent research into feline therapy.

California Tries to Crack Down on Puppy Sales

Recently, some states, like New York, have taken action to protect pets and pet parents by banning the sale of certain animals in pet stores. And other states, like Connecticut, have proposed similar laws. But California has had a law in place since 2019 that prohibits pet stores from selling dogs that were commercially bred—a law passed in an effort to tackle puppy mills. Now lawmakers in the state are trying to go a step further by stopping the sale of puppies that come from mass breeders located outside of California.

What Is a Lick Granuloma?

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

Is Holly Poisonous to Dogs?

You might enjoy decking the halls with boughs of holly, but would that be a smart thing to do if you happen to share your home with a dog? The glossy green leaves and bright red berries are a Christmas staple, but unfortunately, holly is not safe for dogs. Holly is considered toxic to dogs, and taking precautions is essential to keep your furry companion safe. Here’s what every dog owner should know about this iconic holiday plant.Why Is Holly Toxic to Dogs?Holly contains saponins — a group of chemicals that are mildly to moderately toxic to dogs. Both the leaves and berries of the holly plant pose a risk if ingested. Additionally, holly berries contain other harmful substances, such as methylxanthines and cyanogens, which can worsen symptoms of poisoning. To complicate matters, holly leaves are spiky, and their sharp edges can irritate a dog’s mouth, throat, and stomach.Symptoms of Holly Poisoning in DogsIf your dog ingests holly, the symptoms can vary depending on their size, health, and how much was consumed. Common signs to watch for include:Vomiting: Your dog may vomit shortly after eating holly, expelling any berries or leaves they ingested.Drooling: Irritation caused by holly’s toxins or prickly leaves can lead to excessive drooling.Diarrhea: Digestive upset is a common response to holly poisoning.Lethargy: A poisoned dog might appear unusually tired or sluggish.Mouth Irritation: Cuts or bleeding in your dog’s mouth can indicate they’ve chewed holly leaves.Loss of Appetite: Gastrointestinal discomfort can discourage your dog from eating.What to Do If Your Dog Eats HollyIf your dog consumes holly, staying calm is crucial. Panic can make it harder to handle the situation effectively. Follow these steps:Remove the Holly: Safely dispose of any remaining holly or place it well out of reach. If your dog is still chewing the plant, gently remove it from their mouth.Assess Symptoms: Observe your dog closely for any of the symptoms mentioned above.Contact Your Vet: Even if symptoms seem mild, consult your veterinarian or call a pet poison control hotline. Provide details about how much holly was consumed, the type of plant, and any symptoms your dog is showing. Do not induce vomiting unless explicitly directed by a vet, as this can sometimes cause additional harm.Encourage Hydration: Offer your dog plenty of fresh water to help flush toxins from their system.Prevention is KeyThe best way to protect your dog from holly poisoning is to avoid using real holly in your holiday decorations. Consider these alternatives and precautions:Opt for Artificial Holly: High-quality artificial holly looks just as festive and is completely pet-safe. Plus, it can be reused year after year. 

A Grooming Brush with Steam? Count Me In!

(photo credit: Julie Zavalishina / shutterstock.com)My trio of gal pals love a good romp at the leash-free park. And while a robust brushing will usually dislodge the bits of twigs and dried leaves they bring home, those muddy paws and stinky coats often require a trip upstairs and the dreaded bath. But let’s be honest, the sound of running water and the pop of the shampoo bottle cap is such a buzz-kill after a fun day out at the park.Now, I’ve always believed that dogs don’t need regular baths. In fact, it’s best not to lather them up too often because it depletes their natural oils and can result in dry skin and dull coats. While typically that’s the case, there are certain breeds that do require more in-depth cleaning (translation: baths). That’s because they have oilier skin that, if not kept clean, will start to smell funky over time and could develop into a flaky, itchy skin condition called seborrhea. Breeds such as Yorkshire terriers, Basset Hounds, German Shepherds, Cocker spaniels, and even Golden Retrievers will all benefit from regular baths.But for those in-between times where brushing isn’t enough yet a bath isn’t really necessary, there’s something called a steam brush that works wonders on both dogs and cats. Just like it sounds, the brush component works to remove loose hair and debris – just like a regular brush - but when you activate the steamer feature, you get a gentle stream of mist. It’s ideal for taking grooming sessions to the next level when it comes to eliminating loose hair and dust from your pet’s coat. And for longer-haired cats, it helps reduce their need to over-groom and brings an end to hairballs.For me, I love that you can combine your pet’s love of grooming (what pet doesn’t?) with a deeper clean. And because these units are anti-static, they naturally eliminate loose fluff from flying around the house.

Can Dogs Get Dry Eye? You Betcha!

HotelPlanner Goes Pet-Friendly with Acquisition of PetsWelcome.com

Are you on the search for a pet-friendly hotel for your next getaway? If so, you’re in luck! The popular hotel booking platform HotelPlanner has made an exciting move into the pet travel space with their recent acquisition of PetsWelcome.com. PetsWelcome.com was first founded in 1997 by Chris Kingsley and Fred Grayson. As passionate pet parents, the two were dedicated to creating a safe space where travelers could find out about hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, inns, and other accommodations that not only were highly rated but also happily welcomed our furry travel companions. “This acquisition allows us to better serve the millions of pet owners who consider their pets part of the family and want them by their side during travel,” explained Bruce Rosenberg, Global President at HotelPlanner. “Together, we will build on the strong foundation that PetsWelcome.com has created and further expand our offerings for pet-friendly travel.” Like other hotel sites, you can search the directory on PetsWelcome.com for accommodations in a specific city or state. Interested in international travel? While the directory is primarily US-focused, it also includes pet-friendly businesses in Canada, Mexico, the Bahamas, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. After searching your destination, you can narrow your options with pet-focused filters like pet type (cat or dog), pet weight limits, and pet fees. Going a step further in your planning, the website also lists other pet-friendly businesses, including: Restaurants & Cafes BarsDog Parks BeachesNational, State & Local Parks Wineries Pet Stores & RetailAre you looking for inspiration on where to go or when to travel? Why not consult their pet-friendly event directory to find out if there’s something interesting you would like to attend? The website is truly a “one-stop shop” for planning pet-friendly adventures. “PetsWelcome.com has set the standard for pet-friendly travel resources, and we’re excited to leverage their legacy in creating exceptional experiences for pet owners,” stated Joseph Blakeley, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at HotelPlanner. “This partnership reflects our shared vision of a world where pets are not just welcomed but celebrated in travel.” In the coming weeks and months, you can expect to see PetWelcome.com’s directory integrated into the HotelPlaner platform. The company assures travelers this will allow for a seamless booking experience for those planning a trip with their cat or dog and looking for the best pet-friendly hotel for their stay.This is just one of many exciting developments in the pet-friendly travel space. In November, Expedia Cruise of West Orlando and Cruise Tails announced their plans for the first pet-friendly cruise. They will welcome up to 250 dogs on their inaugural cruise. At the same time, ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft now offer pet rides, connecting pet parents with pet-friendly drivers. As a travel lover who enjoys nothing more than including my pets in my adventures, I’m excited to see where this shift in the travel industry will take us! Of course, it’s also going to depend on us… If you are traveling with your pet, do so responsibly. Always keep your pets under your control and clean up behind them. If businesses in the pet industry see responsible pet parents enjoying these opportunities, it will encourage them to continue expanding their offerings in the future. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.