How a Rescue Dog's Loyalty Built His Family a New Home

A Guide to Dog Coat Colors and Patterns

Whether purebred or mixed breed, dogs come in a variety of colors and patterns, from dark to light, solid to spotted, and everything in between. Do you know what a brindle coat is, or what a merle pattern looks like? Check out the quick guide below to get to know some of the many different appearances of our loveable canine companions.

How to Choose the Right Pet for Your Lifestyle

Bringing a pet into your life is exciting, but it's also a big decision. Pets aren't just cute companions; they depend on us for their health, happiness, and daily care. That’s why it’s so important to make sure the pet you choose actually fits your lifestyle, your home, and your long-term plans.Choosing thoughtfully can mean the difference between a joyful experience and a stressful one, for both you and your future pet. Here's what to think about before you say yes to a new furry (or scaly, or feathered) friend.Start by Looking at Your LifestyleBefore you even start thinking about breeds or species, ask yourself: what does a typical day look like for you?If you’re someone who loves being outside, running, hiking, or going on long walks, an active dog like a retriever or a border collie might be the perfect adventure buddy.But if your schedule is packed, you travel a lot, or you just love cozy nights at home, a lower-maintenance pet — like a cat, a hamster, or a fish - might be a better match.Be honest about how much time and energy you can consistently offer, not just on your best days, but every day.Think About Your HomeNext up: where do you live?Your living space plays a huge role in what kind of pet will thrive with you.If you’re in an apartment, a giant dog who needs room to run might not be the best fit.Smaller pets like birds, reptiles, or small mammals can often do great in smaller spaces, as long as their setups are thoughtfully designed.

High Blood Pressure in Cats: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments

Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a condition that can affect cats just like people. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure can be measured in cats, and a veterinarian can determine if a cat’s blood pressure is too high and needs to be treated. To learn more about this condition, including its causes, symptoms, and treatments, keep reading.

Study Finds Most Pet Owners Underestimate the Lifetime Care Costs

We love our pets and treat them as members of the family, but owning a four-legged companion can get costly. Furthermore, the lifetime cost of owning a pet has increased, according to a new study conducted by Synchrony, a financial company.Synchrony’s Lifetime of Pet Care study found that nearly eight in 10 U.S. pet owners underestimate the lifetime cost of caring for their pet. The report also shows that lifetime care costs have increased significantly since 2022, by 11,65% for dogs and 19,4% for cats. This increase reflects a growing investment in veterinary care, technology, and wellness products. The study, which surveyed 4,861 U.S. pet parents, found that caring for a dog over a 15-year period can cost between $22,125 and $60,602. Meanwhile, caring for a cat over a 15-year period is estimated to cost from $20,073 to $47,106. For the first time, the study also included the lifetime care costs for small animals, such as guinea pigs, hamsters, and rabbits. Caring for pocket pets over a six-year lifespan can cost between $7,600 and $14,938.Most pet owners, however, estimated much lower spending. According to Synchrony’s report, dog owners expect to spend only $8,000 on their pups’ lifetime care, while cat owners estimate spending just $6,000 on lifetime care costs. “Pets enrich our lives in countless ways, and it’s natural for pet owners to want to provide them with the best possible care,” said Jonathan Wainberg, senior vice president and general manager of Synchrony’s pet division. “Our research shows that while 60% of dog owners, 61% of cat owners, and 59% of ‘pocket-pet’ owners see them as family, many are unaware of the actual financial commitment.”The report also uncovered increased financial worry among pet parents, with 48% saying they feel anxious about unexpected expenses. Although 74% of owners report they’ve had unexpected pet care costs over $250, only 31% admit they could comfortably cover a large veterinary bill. A growing number of pet owners, 58% revealed they used a credit card to pay for their pet’s veterinary expenses. Meanwhile, only 20% of dog and cat owners reported having emergency savings or insurance to cover unexpected veterinary bills. Cats are becoming increasingly popular as pets, with 37% of U.S. households reporting owning a feline. The increase in cat ownership is responsible for the increase in tech spending, which has doubled since 2022.More and more cat owners are opting for products like automated cat feeders and litter boxes. According to the report, cat owners are now spending between $350 and $480 on high-tech products for their cats.Dog owners, on the other hand, are spending more on wellness plans and health insurance, contributing to the overall rise in care costs. An average dog owner spends $701 a year on wellness plans for their pooch and $313 a year on dog insurance. “The best asset you can give your pet is their health,” said Dr. Courtney Campbell, board-certified veterinary surgeon. “Preventative care is the bedrock of a vibrant life. If we can prevent costly emergencies before they start, we can help ensure a lifetime of joy and comfort for our multi-species family members.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Food Allergies vs. Sensitivities in Cats: What’s the Difference?

You know your cat better than anyone. You’ve memorized the way they nap in their favorite sunspot, the sound of their little meow asking for breakfast, and the gentle purr that starts when you scratch under their chin. But recently, something has been off. Maybe you’ve noticed they are scratching a lot, their usually glossy coat is starting to look dull, or they are struggling with a digestive issue that seems to come and go. Whatever the concern, your first instinct is to find out why. If you’re here, you likely suspect the recent changes in your cat might be related to their food. That’s a great start – but what next? It’s easy to get lost in the sea of information, especially when you start hearing terms like “food allergy” and “food sensitivity” tossed around with no real definition of what they actually mean. If your cat’s condition is food-related, understanding the difference between these two conditions is the most important step you can take toward a real solution. This post will break down the science behind food allergies and sensitivities, help you recognize the signs of trouble, and outline a plan of action for working with your vet to get your kitty feeling their best again. Food Allergy vs. Food SensitivityTo understand how to help your cat, you need to know what’s happening inside their body after they eat. While the symptoms can often look similar, a food allergy and a food sensitivity are two very different conditions. The key difference lies in the body’s reaction to the food. A food allergy is an immune system reaction.  This happens when your cat’s body mistakes a specific protein in a food as a dangerous invader. This mistaken identity triggers their immune system to launch a defensive attack, creating antibodies to fight off the perceived threat. The result is a chain reaction that releases inflammatory chemicals, like histamine, throughout the body. These chemicals are responsible for the symptoms we see, like intense itching, inflamed skin, ear infections, digestive problems, and other more severe complications. Allergies often develop after being exposed to an ingredient over a prolonged time. For example, a cat who has been eating the same chicken-based food for years might suddenly develop an allergy to the chicken protein. In contrast, a food sensitivity, or food intolerance, is strictly a digestive issue. The immune system is not involved. With a sensitivity, your cat’s digestive system simply struggles to break down and process a particular ingredient. This could be because they lack the specific enzyme necessary to break down the food or because the ingredient itself irritates their digestive tract. Either way, it leaves them feeling “off.” Luckily, because a sensitivity isn’t an immune reaction, the symptoms are generally less severe and are primarily confined to the digestive system. You’ll typically see vomiting, diarrhea, gas, or general discomfort in the abdomen. While a sensitivity isn’t going to affect the entire body like a food allergy can, it can still be very uncomfortable for your cat and significantly impact their quality of life. Food sensitivities can be immediate or can build up over time, gradually getting worse as they are exposed to the trigger. It’s always important to distinguish this from an allergy so you can take the right steps to give your cat much-needed relief. Red Flags to Watch Out For Noticing when something is “off” with your cat is one of the most critical parts of being a responsible pet parent. However, the symptoms of a food allergy or sensitivity can be sneaky and often overlap with other conditions. Knowing what to look for and how to distinguish between the two conditions can make a significant difference. Common Symptoms Shared by Both Many of the symptoms of food allergies and sensitivities are similar, which is why it can be so difficult to tell the two apart. The most frequent signs you may notice include: Skin Issues: This is one of the most common signs of trouble. You might see your cat scratching or licking excessively, which can lead to hair loss, red and inflamed skin, or small scabs, primarily around their head, neck, and ears. Digestive Distress: This includes vomiting, diarrhea, gas, or a general lack of appetite. While these can be caused by many things, when they are chronic and not easily explained, they may point to a food-related issue. Chronic Ear Infections: Recurring ear infections that don’t respond well to treatment or keep coming back are a classic sign of an underlying allergy. Recognizing Symptoms of a True Food AllergyWhile allergies can present with digestive issues, they often manifest with more widespread and intense symptoms due to the full-body immune response. Severity and Specific Location: The itching from a food allergy tends to be more severe and often localized to the face, ears, and neck. Constant scratching can cause damage to the skin, leading to secondary infections. Systemic Effects: In rare cases, a true allergic reaction can also lead to respiratory problems like sneezing or wheezing. You may also notice swelling, particularly around the face. Regardless of the cause, if your cat ever has difficulty breathing, it should be treated as an emergency requiring immediate veterinary attention. Symptoms More Indicative of a Food SensitivityA food sensitivity, or intolerance, may involve some minor skin irritation. However, the symptoms are much more focused on the digestive tract. Gastrointestinal Problems: With a sensitivity, diarrhea and vomiting are often the main concerns. The symptoms are the direct result of the body’s inability to properly digest the specific food or ingredient. These symptoms won’t typically be accompanied by the intense, widespread itching that is often seen with a food allergy. Less Widespread: Unlike an allergy, a sensitivity is generally confined to the digestive issues, meaning you are less likely to see any larger-scale skin reactions or other body-wide symptoms. Many of these signs can also be caused by other problems, such as hairballs, eating something they shouldn’t, or switching foods too quickly. They could also be a sign of intestinal parasites or health concerns, like pancreatitis, colitis, or a blockage caused by a foreign body. While you should avoid jumping to conclusions, the only way to know for sure what is causing your cat’s problems is to make an appointment with your veterinarian to get a proper diagnosis.

Are Communal Water Bowls Safe for Dogs? Not Really!

3 Strange Things Your Dog Might Do When They’re Sick

Dogs can’t tell us when they’re feeling unwell, but they often express discomfort in ways that seem odd. As a pet parent, recognizing these subtle signals early can make all the difference. Here are three unusual behaviors that might mean your dog isn’t feeling their best.

7 Essential Tips for Keeping Your Pets Safe This Hurricane Season

Hurricane season can be a stressful and dangerous time for both people and their furry friends. As storms approach, it’s crucial to have a plan in place to protect your pets from harm. Whether you have dogs, cats, birds, or small animals, preparation can make all the difference in keeping them safe and calm during a hurricane. 

Hurricane Katrina Became the Catalyst for Better Emergency Planning

The resistance of residents to leave their pets behind created a whirlwind of acts designed to help pets and their parents weather these types of natural disasters.

How to Stop Your Puppy from Digging Up Your Yard

Digging comes naturally to puppies. It’s part curiosity, part instinct, and sometimes just a way to burn off energy. While a little dirt on their paws might be cute, constant digging can quickly turn your yard into a mess. The good news? With the right strategies, you can redirect your pup’s digging habit into healthier, yard-friendly behavior.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

These 10 Dog Breeds Have Crazy Amounts of Energy

When choosing a dog, one of the most important factors to consider is energy level. Some breeds are natural athletes, built for speed, stamina, and constant movement. These high-energy dogs thrive on physical and mental stimulation. Without it, they can quickly become bored and troublesome. Here's a breakdown of the dog breeds that top the charts in terms of energy, perfect for anyone who’s an active runner, hiker, or someone looking for a seriously lively companion.

Is Your Cat a Picky Eater? Things to Consider About Their Food

It’s no secret that cats can be picky eaters, and pet food companies have responded by making a variety of foods in a range of textures and flavors to suit every finicky feline’s preferences. If your kitty isn’t eating, here are some of the things to consider about their food to see if you can make some changes that will keep them happy.  

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.

How Often Should You Clean a Rat Cage?

Rats are clean, intelligent pets - but they still need a tidy environment to stay healthy. A dirty cage can lead to unpleasant smells, bacterial buildup, and even health issues, especially respiratory problems. Knowing how often to clean a rat cage - and how to do it right - is a key part of responsible rat care.Daily: Spot CleaningYou don’t need to deep-clean your rats’ cage every day, but daily spot cleaning is essential. This includes:Removing soiled bedding or litterWiping up urine or droppingsCleaning food dishes if neededThese quick, daily tasks help control odors and reduce the buildup of waste, making weekly cleanings faster and more effective. Plus, a cleaner cage helps keep your rats comfortable and less prone to illness.

Beginner-Friendly Reptiles: 5 Low-Maintenance Species You’ll Love

Thinking about diving into the world of reptiles but not sure where to start? Don’t worry, not all scaly pets require excessively complicated setups or exotic diets. In fact, some reptiles are surprisingly low-maintenance and perfect for beginners who are ready to try something a little more… cold-blooded.Here are five beginner-friendly reptiles that are generally easy to care for, fun to observe, and make awesome companions for first-timers.

Cancer Warning After Cat Had Her Ears Amputated Due to Sun Damage

Vets are warning owners of cats with light-colored ears to protect their felines from potentially cancer-causing sun damage. Gracie, a seven-year-old white cat, had to have both of her ear flaps amputated after tests showed cancerous cells in both ears. The damage to Gracie’s ears was caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight. Last summer, the Bracknell & Wokingham branch of the Cat Protection charity took Gracie in as a stray. The charity’s vets were shocked by the severity of the damage caused to the cat’s ears by too much exposure to the sunlight.The staff named the feline Crispy because of the damage to her ears. The then-six-year-old feline had both of her ear flaps removed at their base to prevent the cancer from spreading. As it turns out, that decision saved Gracie’s life, as vets are now sure the cancer would have spread all over her body.To compensate for the lack of both ear flaps, Gracie moves her head more to better locate sounds. One year later, and fully recovered after the surgery, Crispy has been renamed Gracy and has been adopted by Beryl and Tom Henry in Bracknell, Berkshire. The fact that Gracie had both of her ears amputated didn’t deter Ms Henry from adopting her. “I fell in love with her as soon as I saw her, and she was absolutely lovely,” Ms Henry told the BBC. “Inside she’s wonderful. Her looks don’t count… I love her to bits.”The Cat Protection charity advises cat owners to keep light-colored felines indoors while the sun is at its hottest. Providing outdoor shade areas and applying sunscreen to a cat’s ears and nose can also help keep vulnerable cats protected against sun damage. Nikki Butcher from the Cat Protection charity said: “Vets probably saved Gracie’s life by spotting the severity of the sun damage to her crispy ears and then treating her so effectively.”  “Any cats that are light-furred or have unpigmented ears or noses are particularly susceptible to sun damage. If it’s caught early, it can be surgically trimmed. In Gracie’s case, because it was such extensive damage, then the decision was taken to take the flaps down to the base.”“Additional tests indicated that was a life-saving decision for Gracie as it could have spread to the rest of her body,” added Butcher. Sadly, Gracie isn’t alone. The Cat Protection charity has witnessed too many cats suffering the effects of sun damage that can be easily prevented. When it comes to keeping cats protected from the sun, it’s important to remember that sun protection isn’t just for summer. Light-colored cats can also get sunburns on cloudy days and in snowy conditions where UV rays reflect off the surface.Limiting your cat’s exposure to the sun during the hottest part of the day and applying vet-approved sunscreen for cats are the best ways to keep your feline safe and healthy. Keep in mind that not all sunscreens are safe for pets, and some are more effective than others. Avoid sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or para-aminobenzoic acid, as these ingredients are toxic to pets. To keep your feline protected during hot summer days, apply sunscreen to the most vulnerable areas of its body, including the nose, ears, belly, and areas with thin fur. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Unlikely Pair Proves Friendship Knows No Species in Viral Video

We’re all familiar with the stereotype of dogs and cats as natural-born rivals, but one unlikely duo is proving that when it comes to love, no species barrier is too great. A viral video on TikTok of Mango, a tiny rescue kitten, and his new nurturing best friend, Melons the Labrador. Their journey from strangers to siblings is a powerful reminder of how a loving home can transform a life and mend a broken past. Just a few weeks ago, Mango’s future was uncertain. A friend of Tessa Carroll’s, a dog parent from Hawaii, found the five-week-old kitten trapped inside the engine of her car. Covered in motor oil and ridden with fleas, the tiny kitty was malnourished and in desperate need of help. When his rescuer reached in to grab him, he didn’t even fight. He simply surrendered, as if he knew his difficult journey was finally about to change directions. When Carroll’s friend called her and shared the young kitten’s story, she agreed to foster him. But first, she wanted to make sure he would get along with her 6-year-old Labrador, Melons. The first few nights were questionable. Mango was skittish and nervous around the much larger dog (understandably), but he never ran away. He seemed curious and apprehensive, all at the same time. But Melons proved to be an unexpected source of comfort. The submissive dog rolled over and invited the little kitten to say hello, showing patience and compassion. Within days, Mango’s apprehension began to fade. The little orange cat, who had been through so much, was starting to show his true colors. With a safe and loving environment, his confident and bold personality emerged.

How to Plant a Cat-Safe Flower Garden

Creating a vibrant flower garden doesn’t mean compromising your cat’s safety. Many popular blooms are toxic to cats, but with a little planning, you can cultivate a beautiful, colorful space that’s also non-toxic and feline-friendly. Whether your cat enjoys basking in the sun or nibbling on greenery, here’s how to design a gorgeous garden that both you and your pet can enjoy worry-free.