How to Care for a Puppy: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Ferret-Proof Your Home

Ferrets are curious, active, and intelligent, and they love a good adventure. So, you shouldn’t be surprised when they make their way into your cabinets, dressers, and little nooks and crannies throughout your home. They’re also liable to chew on things they shouldn’t or ingest things that are dangerous or toxic. For these reasons, it’s necessary to properly ferret-proof any room where they’ll spend time outside of their enclosure.

Tamiflu Might Help Cats Recover from Bird Flu

We’ve covered some cases of cats contracting bird flu and unfortunately dying from the infection. Cases were linked to cats consuming raw food or raw milk, and some pet foods were recalled after they were found to be contaminated with the virus. But now it doesn’t have to be so hopeless: experts have discovered that Tamiflu may help cats recover from H5N1.

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

We often hear the phrase “man’s best friend,” and for good reason. Our dogs are our best friends, companions, therapists, protectors, and so much more. However, the depth of that bond is rarely tested and proven in as dramatic and inspiring a way as it was for young Jamie Parker and his rescue dog, Parker. The story of this North Carolina family captured the hearts of people across the nation after they lost their home to a devastating mudslide during Hurricane Helene. The mudslide shredded the family home in the Asheville area, leaving Jamie (then 11 years old) buried under 12 feet of rubble. While his sister and grandparents were located, the search for Jamie took much longer, with many wondering if it was hopeless. But there was one family member who wouldn’t give up: Tucker. Tucker was found standing over a pile of debris, barking and whining, telling rescuers exactly where to dig. His determination paid off, with Jamie found and whisked away to safety. It’s a bond that literally saved a life. The story is a powerful testament to the intelligence and instincts of our pets. Jamie himself credits Tucker’s “big ears” and “big nose,” and he’s not wrong! A dog’s sense of smell is significantly more sensitive than a human’s. Their sense of hearing is equally impressive, capable of detecting sounds at frequencies and distances far beyond those detectable by the human ear. These biological tools are what make dogs such valuable partners in search and rescue efforts. While Jamie has since physically recovered from the ordeal, the family’s challenges post-Helene are still not over. Having lost everything but the clothes on their backs, they have been living in a temporary home, the ruins of their old life remaining untouched. But this story now has a new, uplifting chapter!

The Common Dog Anxiety “Trick” That Doesn’t Actually Work

If you’ve ever left the house and turned on the TV or radio so your dog wouldn’t feel lonely, you’re definitely not the only one. It’s one of the most common habits among owners of anxious pooches. But, unfortunately, it might not be as helpful as you think. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Animal Shelters Are Becoming Full As More People Are Giving Up Pets

Animal shelters faced heartbreak before, but lately it feels like the tide is washing in harder than ever. Across the U.S., animal shelters are overflowing, standing-room only, because more pet owners are turning in their beloved animals. It’s tough to read, but when you dig into the reasons, you realize how much love is behind each surrender. It’s just people running out of options.Shelter intake numbers climbed to about 5.8 million dogs and cats in 2024, with around 29% surrendered by owners who just couldn’t keep them anymore. In cities like Chicago, owner surrenders have surged. At Chicago Animal Care & Control, surrenders have shot up six-fold compared to 2023, and it’s their job to take every animal that comes in.Even in Wisconsin, shelters report an “unprecedented” increase. The Wisconsin Humane Society had 1,108 pets surrendered in June alone. That’s double last year’s number, and staff are struggling just to find space and time for basic care.At Waukesha County’s Humane Animal Welfare Society, dog intakes are up 13% and cat intakes up 20% over the past year, and they’ve completely paused accepting transfers from other regions just to avoid total collapse.And it’s not just a stray overload. Many surrendered pets are family members. In Chicago, someone waited in line that day to surrender their dog, saying: “If I could afford her, I’d be at the vet right now… you’ve got to choose between living, rent, gas… or the dog”.At Monroe’s Humane Society in Louisiana, they’re designed for about 70 - 75 dogs, but right now have nearly 90, even keeping some free-range in offices because kennel space is gone.What’s behind the rise? Financial pressures top the list. Vet bills, inflation, pet food, grooming, rent, pet deposits, everything costs more. A recent Bank of America Institute report noted that vet care costs have climbed roughly 42% since 2019; pet food, around 22% up. Combine that with eviction threats and pet-incompatible housing, and suddenly, owners who intended to keep their pets forever are making heartbreaking choices.In Philadelphia, staff at ACCT Philly noted that nearly 40% of animals surrendered this year were due to eviction or lack of affordable housing that allows pets. “This isn’t about neglect,” said shelter rep Sarah Barnett, “it’s about survival. Many families are doing the best they can".Behavioral and medical issues also factor in, but far less than economic and housing stress. And there’s another problem, many pets adopted during the pandemic turnout weren’t spayed or neutered, leading to surprise litters and overcrowded homes.So, what are shelters doing to respond? In NYC, the Animal Care Centers paused pet intake for the first time in decades when centers exceeded 1,000 animals, and the backlog is intense. They’ve also secured new public funding to add staff and improve conditions, though critics say it still isn't enough.At local shelters like PAWS in Lynnwood, north of Seattle, dog surrenders are up 37% this year. They’re limiting the intake of stray pets just to manage their capacity. Shelter staff are running on grit, doing everything from food donations to makeshift kennels and urgent foster care to keep animals safe until space opens up.If you're a pet parent, there are things you can do to help! Donate food, supplies, or time. Foster a pet temporarily. If you're thinking of adoption, now is a great time. And for anyone who’s struggling to keep their pet, reach out to local shelters or rescue groups first. Many offer help, including affordable vet clinics or community food programs, to avoid surrender.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

5 Tips to Stop Puppies From Chewing Everything in Sight

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but many new dog owners are quickly reminded that puppies have a natural tendency to chew anything within reach—shoes, furniture, cords, and sometimes even your hands. While chewing is a normal behavior that helps with teething, exploration, and stress relief, it can become destructive if it’s not managed properly. The good news is that with the right guidance and consistency, you can redirect this behavior and protect your belongings. Here are five effective tips to stop puppies from chewing everything in sight.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Dogs Can Sniff Out Parkinson's Disease, Study Finds

If you’ve ever caught your dog sniffing something way too intensely and wondered what they’re thinking, well, turns out they might be picking up more than just smells. A new study has found that dogs can actually sniff out Parkinson’s disease. Yes, really.The research, led by scientists from the University of Manchester and the University of Bristol, shows that dogs can detect the disease just by smelling skin swabs taken from people’s backs or necks. The study involved two pet dogs, Bumper the Golden retriever and Peanut the Labrador. These pups were trained using treats and lots of praise to tell the difference between samples from people with Parkinson’s and those without it.And they didn’t just guess. In tests, the dogs correctly identified Parkinson’s cases around 80% of the time. Even more impressively, they were right about the “healthy” samples nearly 98% of the time.Dr. Claire Guest, co-founder of Medical Detection Dogs (the organization that helped train Bumper and Peanut), said the results are “hugely encouraging.” She added, “Timely diagnosis is key when it comes to slowing progression of Parkinson’s, and dogs may be able to spot the disease years before symptoms become obvious.”It’s not exactly new that dogs can smell things humans can’t. They’ve already been trained to sniff out certain cancers, detect blood sugar drops in diabetics, and even identify COVID-19 infections. But Parkinson’s has always been a tough one. It's often diagnosed too late, and there’s no single test for it. Right now, doctors rely mostly on observing symptoms like tremors and stiffness, which usually don’t show up until the disease is already well underway.So, how does a dog even do this?People with Parkinson’s seem to produce a different mix of natural oils on their skin, something called sebum, and those oils release compounds that smell just slightly different. Humans can't pick it up, but dogs? Their noses are tens of thousands of times more sensitive than ours. What smells like nothing to us might hit them like a perfume counter.For the study, the researchers collected samples by having people wear gauze patches overnight or by swabbing the backs of their necks. The dogs were then trained to sniff out the ones with Parkinson’s. When they got it right, they were rewarded. It was all positive reinforcement, without pressure.And yes, these were ordinary pet dogs. Not super-dogs, not military or police-trained sniffers. Just well-loved companions who also happened to be very, very good at their jobs.Dr. Nicola Rooney from the University of Bristol, who co-led the research, said that these results show there’s a clear scent profile associated with the disease. “We were impressed with how consistent the dogs were,” she said. “There’s definitely something there.”That “something” could change the way we approach early diagnosis. Imagine a future where a dog’s nose becomes part of routine screenings, especially for people at high risk. Even better, researchers hope to eventually identify exactly which compounds the dogs are smelling so labs can create artificial sensors that work just as well.But for now, it’s hard not to feel a little awe at what dogs can do. They’re not just our walking buddies or food-stealing kitchen shadows. They’re capable of helping us in ways we’re only beginning to understand.And maybe next time your dog won’t stop sniffing you, you’ll pause before pushing them away. They just might know something you don’t.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How to Introduce a Cleanse to Your Dog's Health Regimen

Here’s Why Your Dog Loves to Say Hello to Strangers

If you’ve ever walked down the street with your dog and watched them enthusiastically greet every passerby, you’ve probably wondered why they do that. While it can be a little embarrassing at times, this behavior is rooted in some surprisingly interesting aspects of canine nature.

Signs of Illness in Pet Rats

Pet rats are super cute, loads of fun, and very smart, but like all pets, you need to be aware of the health problems they might develop, especially as they get older. Plus, many diseases are spread between rats or caused by improper housing conditions, so being aware of the potential infections they can develop will be useful in helping to keep them healthy.

Must-Have Items Before Bringing Home a New Dog

Bringing a new dog home is exciting, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. To make the transition smooth for both you and your furry friend, there are a few essentials you’ll want to have ready.Here are some must-have items every new dog owner should pick up before day one.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Why Do My Cats Keep Fighting?

If you live with more than one cat, you’ve probably seen them swat, hiss, or even tumble around the room in what looks like a brawl. Some back-and-forth is normal, but if your cats seem to fight often or it gets intense, it can be stressful for everyone in the house. Let’s look at why this happens and what you can do to keep the peace.

Hamsters vs Gerbils: Which Pet is Right for You?

If you’re considering a small, furry companion, chances are you’ve thought about both hamsters and gerbils. At first glance, they may seem quite similar, but their personalities, care needs, and lifestyles differ in important ways.Understanding these differences will help you decide which is the better fit for your home and lifestyle.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

How to Support Your Senior Dog This Winter

Thoughtful comfort, easier mobility, and purposeful play for pets in their golden years.As temperatures drop, many senior dogs slow down even more. Colder weather can stiffen aging joints, reduce mobility, and make everyday routines feel harder than they used to. So, as winter approaches, many pet parents look for ways to help their older dogs stay comfortable, active, and content.And that’s where Petmate steps in as a thoughtful solution. Known for practical, well-designed pet products, this brand is focused on supporting aging dogs with comfort-driven essentials. Their senior-focused winter collection is curated specifically to meet the needs of older pups when they need support the most. 

More Pets Are Being Diagnosed with Anxiety

Trupanion, a well-known pet insurance provider, released information regarding anxiety in pets, and it’s quite surprising. They analyzed data associated with claims related to anxiety from 2019 to 2024, and discovered that anxiety is apparently on the rise among pets in the United States. Here’s a breakdown of what they found, including which states seem to have the highest number of pets with anxiety.

Keeping Pets Safe During Snake Season

As temperatures climb and wildlife wakes up, so do the snakes, and for curious dogs and cats, that can be a dangerous mix. Every year, veterinary clinics across the country see a spike in pet snake bites as the weather warms up. And while not all snakes are venomous, even a non-venomous bite can turn into a big, painful problem for your pet.For pet parents living in snake-prone areas, this time of year means staying vigilant, and a little more cautious, on walks, hikes, or even in their own backyard.According to Dr. Sharon Gwaltney-Brant, a board-certified veterinary toxicologist with the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, snakes tend to be more active during the warmer months, especially in the spring and summer. “Most bites occur when pets are off-leash, wandering into brush or tall grass where snakes like to hide,” she said.The good news? A little preparation can go a long way in keeping your pet out of harm’s way.If you live in a region where snakes are part of the landscape, like deserts, forests, or even suburban neighborhoods near undeveloped land, it’s smart to snake-proof your yard as best as you can. That means trimming overgrown bushes, sealing up holes or gaps in fences, and removing any piles of wood, leaves, or clutter where a snake might want to hang out.And when it comes to outdoor adventures, it’s best to keep your dog on a leash and stay on well-worn trails. Off-leash romps might feel freeing, but they can quickly turn into emergencies if your dog sticks their nose somewhere it shouldn’t.“Dogs are naturally curious. They don’t understand what a rattlesnake is or that it can hurt them,” said Dr. Andrew Hanzlicek, a clinical assistant professor at Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. “They may think it’s something to play with, and that’s where we see a lot of accidents.”If you do run into a snake, the best move is to calmly back away. Don’t let your dog investigate, and avoid trying to handle the situation yourself, especially if the snake is coiled or hissing. Venomous snakes won’t always rattle before striking.So, what happens if your pet does get bitten?First, don’t try any home remedies. No ice, no cutting the wound, and definitely no attempts to suck out venom.Instead, carry your pet (if possible) and get them to a vet immediately. Time matters. Most dogs survive venomous bites if treated quickly, but delays can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, or even death.Treatment often includes antivenom, IV fluids, and pain relief. The faster they’re seen, the better their odds. And yes, treatment can be expensive, so if you live in an area with high snake activity, pet insurance or a snakebite savings fund might not be a bad idea.There’s also the option of snakebite vaccine for dogs, available in certain regions. While it doesn’t guarantee immunity, it may help reduce the severity of a bite and buy you valuable time to get to the vet. Still, it’s not a replacement for caution.And just because you haven’t seen a snake doesn’t mean they’re not around. Some species are quiet, camouflaged, and surprisingly good at hiding in plain sight.For cat parents, the advice is similar. The only thing that’s different is that cats tend to get bitten on their bodies instead of the face or legs like dogs do. And because they’re smaller, venom can spread more quickly. If your cat spends time outside, supervise playtime, especially in shady or overgrown areas.Snake season doesn’t have to be scary, but it does require a bit of awareness. A little prevention, a lot of supervision, and knowing what to do in case of an emergency can make all the difference.Our pets rely on us to keep them safe, even from things slithering in the grass.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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

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

What Are the Best Ways to Exercise My Dog During the Winter Months?

As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, it’s easy for both us and our pups to fall victim to the “winter slump.” The temptation to curl up on the couch under a warm blanket is hard to resist. Pair that with the struggle of bundling up for a cold walk, and it’s no surprise that many dogs aren’t getting the same level of exercise and enrichment that they enjoy the rest of the year. However, while we may be tempted to hibernate until spring, the reality is that consistent physical and mental activity is not just a fun bonus for our dogs; it’s a “must” for their overall quality of life. Without proper exercise, even the most well-behaved and well-trained dog can quickly develop problem behaviors due to boredom, anxiety, and pent-up energy. More importantly, a lack of activity leads directly to weight gain, muscle atrophy, and other health challenges. To ensure your dog enjoys a long, happy, and healthy life, it is your responsibility to find practical solutions for your dog's needs (both physical and mental) even on the coldest days. Luckily, there are options! Let’s look at a few… Explore the Outdoors Safely  Before you head outside to play in the ice and snow, there are a few key safety considerations we need to prioritize with our best friends in mind. Winter introduces some unique risks, and understanding your dog’s specific needs is the first step towards a safe, enjoyable season for all involved. Know Your Dog’s Limits Not all dogs are created equal when it comes to cold tolerance. What one dog may consider a casual brisk walk could introduce dangerous levels of exposure to the elements for another. Looking at our two pups as an example, our Anatolian Shepherd mix, Willow, loves rolling and burying herself in the snow, refusing to come inside for hours on end. Meanwhile, our little guy Lucifer ( German Shepherd/ Australian Cattle Dog) shivers after he’s been out for too long unless he’s properly geared up. Knowing how this applies specifically to YOUR dog is essential. Dogs with shorter coats, little body fat, or small frames (like Greyhounds, Beagles, or Chihuahuas) lose heat more quickly and need more protection. On the other hand, dogs with dense, double coats (like Huskies or Malamutes) are built for the cold. That said, even cold-weather dogs still need to be monitored! Age also influences your dog’s cold tolerance. Both puppies and senior dogs are less efficient at regulating their body temperature. Seniors, in particular, may also have underlying conditions like arthritis that are made worse by cold and dampness, meaning their outdoor play and exercise sessions must be shorter and lower-impact.  While what is considered to be “ too cold” will vary by breed, a general guideline is that temperatures below 32°F (0°C) should be met with caution and limited time outside. Once the temperature dips below 20°F (-7°C), being outdoors can be genuinely dangerous for most dogs and should be limited to quick potty breaks only. Winter Gear Checklist Whether you have a dog who is particularly sensitive to the colder temperatures or you’re worried about other winter-related hazards like chemical de-icers and antifreeze, your cold-weather gear can make all the difference. Here are a few items I highly recommend to keep your pup safe and comfortable: Coats and Sweaters: Look for coats that cover the body from neck to tail and provide coverage over the chest and belly, such as the Hurtta Expedition Parka. There are even overall-style coats, like the Ruffwear Vert Coverall, that offer more protection. Choose materials that are waterproof and windproof to prevent conductive heat loss, especially if you live in a wet or windy climate. Booties: The pads of your dog’s paws are highly susceptible to damage from ice, sharp ice chunks, and, most critically, chemical de-icers (salt). Booties are the gold standard for full protection against chemicals and ice balls forming between their toes. You could use traditional boots, like the Canada Pooch Dog Winter Boots, or if you struggle to keep them on, try a suspender style like the Walkee Paws Dog Boot Leggings. Be sure to introduce them slowly and find a pair that fits securely. Paw Balms/Waxes: If you have a dog who simply won’t tolerate boots, paw balms and waxes like Musher’s Secret are a great alternative. They create a protective, moisturizing barrier on your dog’s paw pads. However, they offer no protection against caustic sidewalk salt and require an immediate paw wash when you get home to remove everything safely. Visibility: With the sun going down earlier during the winter months, visibility is a huge concern. Always use reflective gear or incorporate LED lights, using products like the Nite Ize NiteHowl Rechargeable LED Dog Necklace, RC Pets Nova LED Light Harness, or Nite Ize SpotLit Rechargeable Collar Light. Strategic Outdoor Exercise When cold weather limits your time outside, you have to think outside the box to ensure your pup will get the maximum physical and mental benefit from their time while keeping them safe. Here are a few small shifts you can make to your normal outdoor routine during the winter months: Frequency Over Duration: Instead of trying to force one long, uncomfortable walk, plan for two or three brisk, 15–20 minute power walks throughout the day. This will help you ensure your dog is getting the physical activity they need to stay healthy without risking prolonged exposure to the dangerous cold. Optimal Timing: Always aim to walk during the warmest part of the day, which is typically late morning or midday. Even a few extra degrees of warmth when the sun is out can make a significant difference in your dog’s comfort and safety when playing outdoors. Consider the Intensity: To get more out of a short walk, try to incorporate short bursts of activity. Integrate short periods of power walking or quick trotting (if your dog is fit enough) followed by a normal pace. To boost the enrichment opportunities, stop frequently to allow intense sniffing. Sniffing is a huge mental workout that helps satisfy their needs even if their physical activity is limited. Safe Snow Fun: If your dog loves the snow, you can definitely give them the opportunity to enjoy that! Allow for 10-minute bursts of fetch or zoomies, providing high-energy, short-duration activity followed by coming inside to warm up. You can also turn the snow into a fun “find it” style game. Scatter high-value treats in the snow and cue your dog to “Find it!” This engages their sense of smell, making it a great way to burn energy quickly through mental enrichment. Always ensure you prioritize winter safety during your outings. Never allow access to frozen ponds or lakes unless you’re positive the ice is safe, as thin ice poses an immediate, life-threatening risk. Slips on cleared ice can also cause severe injuries. Be sure to use reflective or LED gear if you must walk near dusk or dawn, as low light conditions are far more dangerous for your pup. Always pay attention to your dog’s body language. Immediately head back inside if you notice any of the following warning signs: shivering, repeatedly lifting paws, or an obvious reluctance to keep moving. These red flags mean your dog is too cold or in pain.