How to Choose the Right Pet for Your Lifestyle

How to Choose the Right Perches for Your Bird

A pet bird needs perches to rest, play, and even clean their beak. But when you start shopping for perches for your feathered companion’s cage, you might feel overwhelmed by all of the options. There are perches of all different sizes, materials, and shapes, and you might not know what’s right for your bird. That’s why we’ve put together this brief guide to bird perches.

How to Choose the Right Scratching Post for Your Cat

A scratching post is an essential piece of feline furniture. But with so many to choose from, how do you know which one your cat will use? Cats come with claws, but it doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your nice furniture. Rather than declawing your kitty (which is really cruel and unnecessary), keep her claws trimmed with a pair of feline claw clippers, and keep your furniture looking like new by encouraging her to use a scratching post. With so many different types of scratching posts, shopping for one can get somewhat confusing. How do you know that you’re buying your kitty the scratching post that she will love and actually use? The tips below should help. The Right Size and Sturdiness Cats want to use a scratching post that is sturdy, so avoid purchasing anything that’s already unstable or wobbly or made of cheap materials that will guarantee it won’t remain strong for long. Put simply, your kitty should be able to lean all of her weight into the post without it falling over, so make sure it is made of durable materials. Related: Works of Art You Want Your Cat to Shred The scratching post should also be high enough that your cat can fully stretch her body and the muscles of her legs and paws. So if you’ve adopted a kitten, you may need to upgrade to a taller scratching post as your fur baby grows. The Right Texture Kitties typically prefer to find something with a rough texture to scratch on, and something they can really sink their claws into. The best material is one that your cat will be attracted to and will be able to use without getting her claws stuck. A great example is sisal, which is really popular amongst felines and their owners because it is durable and has a rough texture that cats like. Related: Tips on How to Pick Furniture Your Cat Won’t Scratch If your cat doesn’t like sisal, you could try other materials, such as wood or corrugated cardboard. And if you find that your kitty likes to scratch on your carpeted floors or your rugs, a scratching post with a carpeted base might satisfy that need without having to go after your flooring. Horizontal or Vertical Speaking of cats who like to scratch at carpets and rugs, you can also offer your kitty a mix of different types of scratching posts, not only in terms of the materials that they’re made of, but also in terms of whether they’re meant to be used vertically or horizontally. A horizontal scratching post is a great option for kitties who like to claw at flooring. Even though they may also use vertical posts, the addition of horizontal options could be helpful. Location, Location, Location Once you have a few scratching posts, place them throughout your home in strategic areas where your cat tends to scratch. Hiding the scratching posts in a corner might not be such a good idea because your cat may not even bother using them. If your cat has started scratching your furniture, for example, placing a scratching post there could help deter her from using the furniture because the post is a more attractive option. Also, simply paying attention to your kitty’s habits will help you figure out the best places to put your scratching posts. If your pet sleeps with you at night and likes to scratch after waking up, put one in the bedroom. Other cats may like to scratch before or after they play, after a nap, or after they have a yummy meal. With so many different styles from innovative manufacturers now available, including those that don’t even really look like traditional scratching posts, you can place these in view as part of your décor without worrying that your home looks like that of a crazy cat person. Offer Plenty of Options in a Multi-Cat Family Finally, having a variety of scratching posts is very helpful in a multi-cat household where every cat has individual preferences when it comes to where they scratch, the materials they prefer, and whether they like horizontal or vertical options. Avoid attempting to encourage your kitty to use a scratching post by grabbing her paws and placing them on the post. Instead, try sprinkling dried catnip on it. If your kitty still shows no interest, it could be the wrong type of scratching post for her, so you may need to experiment a bit until you find the right fit.

Choosing the Right Substrate for Your Aquarium

Let’s get to the bottom of aquarium substrate! Depending on what kind of tank you set up, you need to choose the right substrate for it. As you start to think about the details for setting up a new aquarium, there are many decisions that you have to make. You’ll need to decide what species of fish to stock in your tank and what kind of equipment you’ll use to maintain water quality. Another important decision that shouldn’t be overlooked is choosing the right substrate for the type of tank you plan to cultivate. Factors to Consider in Choosing Substrate When it comes to choosing the perfect substrate for your aquarium, there are a number of different factors you need to consider. First of all, the substrate for a freshwater tank is much different than for a saltwater tank. Related: Setting a Schedule for Routine Tank Maintenance In a freshwater tank, substrate largely serves an aesthetic role, though it can also support plant life and provide space for beneficial bacteria to grow. In a marine tank, substrate often serves the additional purpose of helping to modify pH or other aspects of tank chemistry. For a freshwater tank, you need to think about whether you intend to cultivate live plants as well as fish, and the type of fish you choose to stock in your tank is important to consider as well. For a marine tank, your substrate choice may be determined by tank inhabitants as well – reef inhabitants may have different requirements than other types of saltwater fish. Related: 7 Common Types of Algae Found in Freshwater Aquariums Overview of Substrate Options There are many different types of aquarium substrate to choose from but, as you’ve already learned, some work better for certain types of aquariums than others. Here are some of the most popular options as well as tips for what type of tank they are best suited for: Gravel: One of the most popular substrates for freshwater tanks, gravel comes in a variety of different sizes and colors. It doesn’t have any impact on aquarium parameters, but uneaten food and other wastes can filter through the material so regular vacuuming of the gravel is a must.Sand: Largely recognized as one of the cleanest substrates, sand tends to compact which prevents food particles and other wastes from penetrating the surface. This type of substrate is a popular choice for freshwater tanks with a natural décor scheme.Aragonite: Also known as aragonite sand, this substrate consists of a calcium carbonate material that can slowly increase and buffer pH in saltwater tanks. It is commonly mixed with live sand or crushed corals and it is particularly useful in reef tanks.Crushed Coral: This substrate was popular before aragonite came around and it too helps to increase and stabilize pH. Crushed coral is most commonly used in marine and reef tanks but can also be useful in brackish tanks and for African cichlids.Aquasoil: One of the most popular substrates for planted freshwater aquariums, aquasoil is a substance designed to imitate the substrate found at the bottom of rivers and lakes. It is nutrient-rich and has the ability to soften the water and reduce pH.Flourite: This is a clay-based substrate often used in planted tanks due to its high iron content. It comes in a variety of different colors and is generally easy to find.Vermiculate: A mineral substrate made up of iron, magnesium, and aluminum, vermiculate offers a high cation exchange rate which is good for planted tanks. It also slowly releases nutrients into the water and it holds a neutral pH.Laterite: A porous clay material gathered from tropical and subtropical areas, laterite can help to store nutrients for use by live plants. It is popular for use as a lower layer of substrate in planted tanks. Substrate is the literal foundation for your aquarium – the rest of your décor scheme will be built around it. Choose your substrate and then work from there to choose other aspects of your décor scheme including rockwork, driftwood, live plants, and more.

Choosing The Right Boarding Kennel For You And Your Dog

Parting is such sweet sorrow – so it makes a world of difference when you pick a boarding kennel that takes care of your dog properly Having to leave your dog when you go away can be stressful and upsetting for everyone involved. However, you can certainly lessen the blow and make the whole experience much more positive for you and your pooch. It’s important that the kennel you choose is right for everyone so that you don’t spend your whole time worrying. Plan Ahead Make sure you plan well in advance when boarding your furry friend. The best kennels can get booked up quickly and you don’t want to miss out on quality care for your dog. As soon as you know you’re going away, call and inquire about boarding options. Ask friends and family members or your veterinarian’s office if they have any recommendations for quality kennels. Related: What To Look For In A Quality Dog Boarding Facility Your Dog’s Needs Think about your dog’s needs and temperament and make sure they can be catered to. If you’ve got a social and friendly pooch, will she be able to interact with other dogs who are being boarded? Conversely, if your four-legged friend gets stressed by other dogs or has aggressive tendencies, will adequate care be taken to keep her separate from them? If your pup has any special needs or requires medication, are staff at the facility capable of looking after her properly? Your dog’s comfort and happiness is paramount, so be sure that the boarding facility will be able to meet her needs. Exercise The boarding kennel you go with should be able to meet your dog’s exercise requirements. Some kennels will take each dog out for a walk, whereas others will simply give them access to an outdoor run for an hour or so each day. While the latter is fine for some dogs, if you have a big or energetic pooch, this probably won’t cut it. If your dog doesn’t get enough exercise, all her pent up energy could cause her to become unduly stressed during her stay. Ask the staff how they plan to make sure your pup is getting plenty of exercise. Related: Tips For Boarding a Dog with Separation Anxiety Looking Around Once you’ve decided on the kennel at which you want to board you dog (or at least made a shortlist), you should be able to have a look around before you book. If a kennel discourages this or says that you aren’t allowed, then alarm bells should start ringing. Any boarding facility worth its salt should be happy to show prospective clients around to see the amenities and let them talk to the staff. What to Look Out For During your trip to the kennels, you should know what to look for. In order to avoid the spread of infection, they should be clean and well ventilated. If this is the case, they shouldn’t be smelly, so stinky kennels should throw up a red flag. While they should be well ventilated, they shouldn’t be drafty, or your pup might get cold at night. Make sure that the kennels and runs are secure, properly maintained and big enough for the dogs they’re housing. Although the dogs at the kennels will start barking and get excited when you first arrive, they should settle down before too long. If they seem stressed or unhappy, this might not be the best place to go with. Trust Your Instincts If you take a look around a boarding kennel and something doesn’t feel quite right to you, trust your instincts and go with another option. While you may be entirely wrong about it, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Besides, if you ignore your initial instincts, you’re likely to spend your whole trip away worrying about your precious pooch, which won’t exactly be fun for you.

Do You Know the Right Vaccination Schedule for Your New Pet?

Following a vaccination schedule for your pet is the best way to ensure he lives a long and healthy life. Here’s the timeline you should follow. After bringing a new pet into your family, it’s time to work with a veterinarian to ensure your dog or cat is healthy. Ensuring that he has all his up-to-date vaccinations, at all the right times, is the best way to prevent and eliminate diseases that can prove deadly to pets. Here’s what you need to know about the vaccines your puppy or kitten will be getting and when they should be administered by a veterinarian. What Vaccines Are Required? There are two classes of vaccines: core vaccines and non-core vaccines. Core vaccines should be administered to all pets, while non-core vaccines will only be recommended for certain animals. Your vet will help you determine if your pet needs any of the non-core vaccines, and the decision will be based upon factors like the health status of your cat or dog, as well as his age and breed, and his potential exposure to a disease. Your vet will follow a straightforward vaccination schedule for your new puppy, kitten or adult pet. The schedule is outlined below so you will have an idea of what to expect. Just keep in mind that factors like where you live and what your pet’s risks are will help your vet determine which vaccines are necessary and when they should be administered to ensure the health of your furry friend. Puppy & Kitten Vaccination Schedule

How Often Should You Change Cat Litter?

Caring for your feline friend comes with many responsibilities, and maintaining a clean litter box is among the most crucial aspects of their hygiene. A clean litter box ensures your cat stays happy and healthy while keeping your home fresh and odor-free. However, many cat owners are unsure how often to change their pet's litter. The answer depends on several factors, including the type of litter you use, the number of cats in your home, and your cat's individual preferences. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you manage your cat’s litter box effectively.Why Litter Box Hygiene MattersCats are renowned for their cleanliness, and a dirty litter box can cause significant distress. In some cases, it can even lead to behavioral problems, such as litter box avoidance. This can result in inappropriate elimination around your home, creating additional challenges. Moreover, a poorly maintained litter box can become a breeding ground for bacteria and ammonia buildup, which can be harmful to both your cat and your household.

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.

Is Winter Paw Protection Necessary for My Dog?

As pet parents, we need to meet the needs of our furry companions. That includes giving them an opportunity to be active with walks and other activities even when the temperatures drop and there’s snow on the ground.However, the frigid winter temperatures and harsh elements can pose serious risks to your dog’s delicate paws. Cold, dry air can cause cracked paw pads, while icy sidewalks and sidewalk salt can cause painful cuts and injuries. Some de-icers are even toxic!Just like we bundle up in warm coats and boots to protect ourselves this time of year, our furry friends may also need a little extra protection. Let’s discuss when winter paw protection for dogs is necessary and what products are available to help keep your pup’s paws happy and healthy all season long.How Cold is Too Cold for a Dog’s Paws? When considering the risk of injury to a dog’s paws, we usually jump to dangers that could cause a cut or scrape, like rough, icy surfaces or road salt. However, the cold temperature alone could spell trouble in some situations. But how cold is too cold? When should we be worried about the safety of our pups on our winter walks? There is no “one-size-fits-all” answer. The truth is that some dog breeds are better suited to the winter season than others. Breeds like the Alaskan Malamute and the Siberian Husky were born to work and thrive in arctic environments. But the same can’t be said for all dogs. A good general rule of thumb is that temperatures of 20 degrees Fahrenheit or lower carry a significantly increased risk of frostbite. In this weather, most experts recommend severely limiting your dog's time outdoors or using paw protection to keep their paws safe from the ice and cold. That said, you should monitor your dog closely for signs that they are feeling cold. Keep an eye open for signs of discomfort, such as: Cautiously lifting their paws up Shifting from paw to paw Slowing down or refusing to walk at all Whining or barking to get your attention Shivering or tremblingIf you’re outdoors on a walk or playing in the yard and notice any of these signs, make your way back to shelter (your house or your vehicle) as soon as possible to allow your dog to warm back up again. Do Dogs Need Paw Protection in the Winter? Deciding whether your dog needs paw protection will depend on several factors, the most important being the temperature that they are comfortable at without paw protection and your lifestyle. If you have a dog who thrives in the cold or is only ever outdoors in the cold weather long enough to go to the bathroom and then come right back indoors again, they may be fine without the added layer of protection. However, here are a few situations where paw protection could make a considerable difference in your dog’s safety and comfort: Places with Extreme Temperatures If you live in a space where freezing temperatures are the norm, you will have fewer days to get out and enjoy a walk or other outdoor activity without worrying about frostbite. Don’t let this keep you feeling trapped indoors. Instead, gear up your pup so they can still get out and enjoy the great outdoors regardless of the temps. Road Salts and De-Icers Do you enjoy winter walks, but your local sidewalks and roadways are covered in road salts and de-icers? If so, you may want to consider taking steps to keep your pup safe from these potentially harmful products. Some de-icer products are incredibly toxic for dogs. This isn’t to say your dog will grab a mouthful while you’re on a walk. But if they pick up some of that de-icer on their paws, they may carry it home. At that point, simply licking their paws to clean up after their walk could cause them to ingest the toxin. When you remove your dog’s boots, any product they have picked up will go with them. Even if the road salt you encounter is dog-friendly, there is still the risk of harm. Yes, pet-friendly de-icers are considerably safer than the other options. But there is still a risk they can irritate your dog’s paws from the rough surface or sharp pieces of salt. If your pup has any cuts or existing injuries on their paw, the salt can irritate it further. Sensitive Pups Some dogs are more sensitive to cold temperatures than others, just like some people are more sensitive. This could be due to their breed. Some common dog breeds known for being sensitive to the cold include the chihuahua, greyhound, boxer, Chinese crested, and basenji. Additionally, some dogs will be more susceptible to feeling cold even if their breed isn’t on that list. This includes senior dogs, young puppies, and dogs with health conditions such as: Arthritis Heart disease Kidney disease Diabetes Cushing’s disease Hormonal imbalancesExisting Paw Injuries When discussing road salt, I mentioned that those products may irritate existing cuts or injuries on a dog’s paw, but that isn’t the only time an injury may require some added protection this season. If your dog has an open wound or injury, the snow and ice may cause pain, irritation, or even increase the risk of infection. Exposed wounds are also at a higher risk of suffering from frostbite, plus the cold can slow the healing process. Bandages on the paws can also pick up snow or moisture, leading to further irritation. In these situations, your veterinarian may have recommended limiting the time your dog is spending outdoors or using some sort of protection on your dog’s injured paw to prevent the injury from getting worse.

CES 2025 Included Some Really Cool Pet Tech

Consumer Electronics Show offers a glimpse into the future for pets and pet parents.

Simple Tricks to Get Your Pet to Take Their Meds

Let’s face it, for most pet parents, the moment the veterinarian prescribes medication for your beloved dog or cat, a little voice inside you whispers (or screams), “Oh no!” You’re not alone! Many of us (myself included, in the past) have engaged in a strategic chase around the living room, a tiny pill clutched in our hand. But rest assured, it doesn’t have to be that difficult. While it can feel like navigating an impossible challenge, there are effective and less stressful ways to help your pets take their medicine, whether it comes in the form of a pill, a liquid, or a powder. In this post, I am going to share some simple tricks and techniques I have learned that have proven to be effective in my house. By mastering these tricks, you can set yourself up for success, making prioritizing your pet’s health and well-being easier than ever. Why Is Giving Medication to a Pet So Challenging?Have you ever wondered why your sweet and loving best friend suddenly becomes a master of evasion the moment medication comes into the picture? There are several reasons why our pets put up such a fight. Taste and Smell: Many medications simply don’t taste or smell very good to our pets. Some can even be quite bitter or have an unfamiliar smell that triggers a natural dislike and aversion. Instincts: Our pets are descendants of their wild ancestors, who were hardwired with instincts to help them survive. For this reason, they are naturally wary of anything new, different, or unusual in their routine, especially something offered by hand. Negative Past Experiences: If your pet has had a negative experience with medications in the past, such as force or discomfort, this can create a lasting association of fear and resistance with the taking of medication in general. Stress and Anxiety: The act of being handled or restrained can trigger feelings of stress and anxiety in some animals, making them even less likely to cooperate. Side Effects: It’s important to remember that some medications may cause physical discomfort or side effects. If this is the case, it can make them more reluctant to take that medication again (understandably). As pet parents, dealing with this resistance can be physically and emotionally draining. We want to help our pets feel better, and it can be disheartening when those efforts are met with struggle or upset. But putting ourselves in their shoes for a moment can help us identify the reason why they are so reluctant to take their medications, helping us overcome these hurdles. Setting Yourself Up for Success The process of effectively giving your pet medication starts with careful preparation. Think of it like laying the groundwork for an overall smoother experience. Here are a few things to consider: Communication with Your Vet Before you even attempt to give your pet their medication, make sure you clearly understand your vet's instructions. This includes asking the following questions: Dosage: What is the exact amount of medication you are supposed to give your pet each time?Frequency: How often must the medication be given throughout the day?Timing: Does the medication need to be given at a specific time? Does it need to be given with food or on an empty stomach? If you have multiple medications, can they be given at the same time? Don’t hesitate to ask your vet what formulations and options are available. Every pet is different, and you may find that yours is more accepting of one form of medication than another. For example, there may be a flavored liquid instead of a pill, or even alternatives to the medication altogether. Ask about any side effects your pet may experience and how best to manage them. Knowing this in advance can help you get relief for your pet far quicker, as you can respond immediately versus trying to determine if the side effect is, in fact, associated with the medication and how to address it. Most importantly, remember this golden rule: never change the dosage or stop giving medication without discussing it with your vet (unless, of course, you are facing a severe reaction). Some medicines, like antibiotics, must be given for a set length of time to be effective. Stopping a medication because your pet appears to be getting better could set them back long-term. Be Calm and OrganizedThe environment and your energy will both play a significant role in your pet’s willingness to cooperate. Choose a calm, quiet, and familiar space in your home where your pet will feel safe and secure. Where possible, try to avoid any distractions or interruptions. Before introducing your pet into the equation, take time to gather all the needed supplies. This includes the medication itself, any treats you plan to use, and applicators like oral syringes if required. Having all of these items within reach will keep the process as quick and efficient as possible, helping to reduce your pet’s stress. When gathering them for medication time, avoid approaching them in a rushed or stressed manner, as they will likely pick up on your emotions. Instead, try to stay calm and offer a reassuring presence to calm any fears or concerns they may have. The Art of PillingWhen it comes to giving your pet pills, the goal is to make the process as stress-free and palatable as possible. Luckily, there are several clever strategies you can use to make the process quicker and easier for everyone involved. The Pill Pocket One of the most popular and often successful tricks is using “pill pockets.” These are commercially available treats designed with a hollow center to conceal a pill. The idea being that the pet is so excited to take the treat that they don’t even notice they are taking a pill at the same time. There are many different brands and flavors available, depending on your pet’s preferences, such as the Presidio Pill Buddy Naturals, which comes in a tempting “Tender Grilled Duck” flavor, or the popular salmon flavour of Greenies Feline Pill Pockets. An interesting product, and a spin on the “pill pocket” approach, that we have been using recently in our house is the Vetality Twist + Lick Simpill Gel. This looks almost like a deodorant container, but a flavored gel comes up when you twist the bottom. You simply place the pills in the gel and allow your dog to help themselves. It comes in beef, chicken, and peanut butter. Hiding in FoodAnother common tactic is to hide the pill within a small amount of a soft, highly palatable food. Common choices include tiny pieces of cooked chicken or turkey, a small cube of cheese, a dab of tuna (in water, not oil), or a smear of xylitol-free peanut butter. But don’t overdo it. The goal here is to use only a small amount of the food so you can guarantee that your pet eats the entire medicated portion in one go and doesn’t just eat around the pill. I recommend not hiding pills in your pet’s regular food bowl, especially if they are fighting the pilling process. Otherwise, you may create a negative association with their regular food, leading to them turning their nose up at the usual dinners. One useful trick that helps to leave your pet with a positive feeling about the process is to deliver the medicated food in a “treat sandwich” approach. First, give them a piece of the food entirely unmedicated, then a piece containing the pill, and finally another plain piece as a reward.

9 Signs Your Pet Is Trying to Tell You Something Important

Pets communicate with us all the time, it just doesn’t involve words. From changes in behavior to subtle body language, they have their own ways of letting us know when something’s wrong or when they need something.Being able to recognize those signs can help you catch health or emotional issues early on.Here are 9 signs your pet might be trying to tell you something important. 

Air Travel Planned? Check Out These Top, Airline-Approved Pet Carriers

Is Periodontal Disease in Dogs Reversible?

If you've ever gotten a whiff of your dog’s bad breath and thought, that can’t be normal, you're probably right. Bad breath isn’t just a quirky part of being a dog - it can be a sign of something more serious: periodontal disease.This common condition affects most dogs by the time they’re three years old, and if left untreated, it can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. But here’s the big question on most pet parents’ minds: is periodontal disease in dogs reversible?The short answer? It depends on the stage.The long answer? Let’s break it down.What Is Periodontal Disease, Exactly?Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that affects your dog’s gums, teeth, and the structures that support them. It usually starts with plaque - a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on the teeth after eating. If that plaque isn’t removed (through brushing or chewing), it hardens into tartar, and the real trouble begins.

Study Finds Dogs Really Are Surrogates to Having Children

Research finds pooches are not only a key member of the household, they've become the much-loved child in a childless family.

Drones With Thermal Imaging Help Find Missing Pets

There are many strategies you can use to find a pet who has gone missing, and most people start with the basics like posting flyers around town and posting about their lost pet online. Also, if your pet is microchipped, the hope is that, if they are found by someone, they will be taken to a veterinarian or animal shelter and be scanned so you can be contacted right away.But what if your pet gets lost and no one is able to find them, even though you’ve put the word out and have looked everywhere? Well, a drone with thermal imaging technology might be just what you need.

5 Top Tips for Looking After Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs are gentle, social pets that bring a lot of joy to their owners. But like all animals, they need proper care to stay healthy and happy. Here are five essential tips to keep your guinea pigs in top shape.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

How to Build a Bond with Your New Rescue Dog

Bringing home a rescue dog is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have - for both you and your new companion. But it’s also a big transition, especially for dogs who may have experienced abandonment, neglect, or trauma in their past.That’s why building a strong bond with your rescue dog isn’t something that happens overnight. It takes time, patience, and a whole lot of understanding. But with the right approach, you’ll create something truly special: a trusting, lifelong relationship rooted in love.Here’s how to begin that journey, one step at a time.Start with Space and PatienceThe first few days in a new home can be overwhelming for a rescue dog. Everything is unfamiliar - sights, sounds, smells, and people - and it can cause real anxiety.One of the best things you can do? Give your dog space to adjust.Let them explore the home at their own paceSet up a quiet, cozy area where they can retreatAvoid forcing interaction or physical affectionSome dogs will come to you right away. Others need time to feel safe. Let them set the pace.Establish a Calm, Predictable RoutineDogs thrive on routine - especially those recovering from unstable pasts. A regular schedule helps create a sense of safety and predictability.Try to:Feed at the same times each dayKeep walks, bathroom breaks, and playtime consistentOffer a regular bedtime or wind-down ritualThe more predictable life becomes, the more confident and secure your dog will feel.Use Positive ReinforcementWhen it comes to training and bonding, positive reinforcement is your best friend.Reward good behavior with treats, praise, or gentle affectionKeep training sessions short and low-pressureCelebrate the little wins - sitting, coming when called, or just making eye contactAvoid punishment or harsh corrections. Fear-based methods can damage trust, especially with dogs who may already be unsure of people.

Dogs of Summer! Here's How to Avoid Heat Stroke This Year!

(photo credit: Lindsay Helms / shutterstock.com)For urban dogs, the lack of shade-providing trees and that hot city pavement underfoot can result in a variety of sun-induced health issues you may not have seen coming.While humans are typically diligent about taking steps to minimize the effect of dangerous UV rays and scorching heat – thinking baseball caps, visors, sunglasses, sunblock, and more – our pets are often left to the elements and struggle to cope. We think that providing cold drinking water is sufficient to hydrate and keep their body temperature down, but it’s not enough. Just like the person on the other end of their leash, dogs too, can experience sunburn and skin cancers including squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanomas not to mention the impact of hot pavement, patio stones, asphalt, and even artificial turf that can result in blistered pads and elevated body temperature leading to heat stroke.If your pet has been out in the sun for any period of time and is panting heavily, beginning to drool and his fur feels hot to the touch, it’s time to immediately move him into the shade, provide him with cold water and take steps to lower his body temperature. This can include spraying him with cool water and placing cold towels around his core area. If he has progressed to the stage of vomiting, or collapsing, or his gums have turned pale, a veterinarian intervention is required.So, how do you prevent a good walk on a nice sunny day from turning into a medical emergency? Prepare! Happily, the pet industry has thought through a myriad of options.