How to Keep Pet Hair Off Your Furniture

Environmental Enrichment for Pet Birds

Environmental enrichment is important for all pets, from dogs and cats to rodents and birds. When it comes to your feathered companions, you can keep them happy, entertained, healthy, and stress-free by providing a safe environment, toys, yummy foods, and physical and mental stimulation. To help you get started, here are a few tips you can implement to make your bird’s home even better.

How Long Can You Leave a Labradoodle Alone?

Labradoodles – an adorable mix of Poodles and Labrador Retrievers – are renowned for their affectionate, playful, and energetic nature. These intelligent, social dogs thrive on companionship, making them less suited to long periods of solitude. If you’re considering adding a Labradoodle to your family, it’s essential to understand how long they can comfortably be left alone – and how to meet their needs while you’re away.How Long Can You Leave a Labradoodle Alone?Several factors determine how well a Labradoodle can handle alone time, including their age, training, and individual temperament. With the right preparation and understanding, you can ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy, even when you’re not home.Alone Time by AgePuppies (Up to 6 Months)Labradoodle puppies require constant care, attention, and socialization. With tiny bladders and boundless energy, they need frequent potty breaks, playtime, and interaction. Puppies should not be left alone for more than 2–3 hours at a time. To keep them comfortable, provide a cozy bed and their favorite toy to entertain or comfort them during short absences.

Do Cat Colors Affect Personality?

Have you ever wondered if your new kitten’s fiery ginger coat is a warning sign that you are bringing home a sassy whirlwind? Does your black cat’s sleek coat give off the vibes of a mysterious loner?There are many theories regarding the possible connection between a cat’s coat color and their personality traits. However, this leaves many cat lovers curious whether it’s all folklore or a connection exists.Let’s look at the science (or lack thereof) behind the relationship between a cat’s appearance and their personality. Plus, we’ll share the most common traits associated with each fur color and pattern so you can see if it describes your cat.What Determines the Color of a Cat Before discussing the connection between fur color and personality, let’s examine what actually causes different cats to have different coat colors and patterns.Like your hair or eye color, the appearance of your cat’s fur is a reflection of their genetics. This includes the color of the fur, how bright or diluted those colors appear, and any patterns their coat displays (like tabby stripes or calico patches).What is the Rarest Color for a Cat? The Most Popular? As with any genetic trait, some fur coats and patterns are more common than others. The rarest color is a solid-white coat. Less than 5% of the cat population is estimated to be completely white and void of any color (no additional marks or patterns). On the other end of the spectrum, the tabby is the most common cat coat pattern. While most people associate tabbies with vertical stripes along their body, the pattern can also present as splotches, circles, spots, or any combination of these markings.

Does Your Dog Have Funky Smelling Facial Folds? Problem Solved!

(photo credit: WilleeCole Photography / shutterstock.com)We love ‘em to bits but our best buddies can be prone to various funky smells that come from both ends and all that furry space in between. From stinky ears, to bad breath and of course, those gassy intestinal issues. Yes, a wealth of different odours depending on the circumstance.But for pet parents living with brachycephalic dogs – or any dog with heavy folds and wrinkles – there is a whole new layer of smells that come from improperly cleaned crevices. It’s called pyoderma and it’s nasty.You see, the folds capture and retain moisture that, if left untreated, becomes a haven for bacteria. Over time, the skin ruptures because of the ongoing exposure to moisture and this can lead to painful, putrid-smelling infections and hefty vet bills.The Three-Step Solution?Take a targeted preventative approach to your pet’s hygiene. This not only eliminates potential infections but helps ensure your pet is more comfortable and is no longer persona non grata due to that funky odour.And it’s down to practicing these three simple steps on a regular basis:Wipe out all wrinkles, folds, and tail pockets with a warm, damp washcloth or one of the commercial wipes designed for cleaning wrinkly dogs.Once cleaned, use a cotton ball or soft dry towel to ensure each crevice is thoroughly dry.Dust inside each fold with a thin layer of unscented baby powder or grooming powder to help keep moisture out.What Leads to Pyoderma?It could be because your dog was bathed/swam/caught in the rain and never properly dried out. Perhaps his wet food found its way into his facial folds or it may be the build-up of smelly bacteria from a natural accumulation of skin oils. The bottom line is that if not cleaned and fully dried on a regular basis – two to three times a week - it languishes. And that’s when it starts to smell and cause your pet distress.So, prevention is key and there are a number of products that ensure it’s easy, inexpensive, and effective.Where to Start?One of the more basic solutions is to start with a simple wipe-down using scent-free baby wipes to clean between the individual folds. When done, be sure to thoroughly dry.

Hundreds Wanted to Adopt a Swearing Parrot - Now He Has a Perfect Home

There is no doubt that parrots are masters of mimicking voices and talking. But what they learn from their owners is not always so nice. Pepper, a White-fronted Amazon parrot who now lives in Olean, New York, is a perfect example of that.Recently, Pepper has gone viral on social media, particularly for his foul, R-rated language, and rather… ”colorful” vocabulary. Pepper was known for swearing profusely, much to the amusement of all who met and saw him. However, the parrot recently went up for adoption – and hundreds hurled to provide him with a new home. So now, Pepper is settling in with his new owners.“We checked in with his adopters, Tiffany and Tim, yesterday, and they report Pepper is settling in nicely,” the New York SPCA wrote. “He hasn't cursed at them just yet, but we know it's coming. He loves his veggies and always greets his adopters when they walk in the room.”Interestingly, Pepper’s new owners already own a parrot – an African Grey – who likewise swears a lot, even more than his new friend. “We love that Pepper found his home with adopters who won't be phased by his colorful language, and who know their birds,” the SPCA said. “May Pepper have decades of issuing threats to his new family! Now, go kick some a$$, Pepper!”Trying to find out how exactly Pepper learned all these words, the SPCA learned that his last home was in Buffalo, New York. There he shared a home with a rather naughty dog. The owner often tried to get the doggo to listen by saying things like “Do you want me to kick your a**?” Naturally, Pepper was quick to pick up those words and add them to his growing vocabulary. "We can't wait to read updates on our potty-mouthed friend," the SPCA said in a statement. But the new owners said that Pepper is still staying somewhat polite, and hasn’t cursed at anyone just yet. But there is no doubt it’s coming. Pepper’s new owners created an Instagram page where they could document the everyday moments of their new pet. You can find their adventures under the handle, @twospicyparrots.The SPCA shared that prior to the adoption they received over 300 requests for Pepper, but were very careful about their choice as they wanted the parrot to go to a great home which would be his “forever home”. Now that is a happy ending for this potty-mouthed parrot!

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Dog Achieves Internet Fame with Her "Puppy Parkour"

The internet has opened the door for a new type of celebrity, making it easier than ever for individuals (humans and pets) to achieve fame and recognition on a global scale. Thousands of people around the world log onto social media each day to enjoy funny, adorable, and unique pet videos.  One such internet sensation that has recently captured the attention of thousands is Nola, a Treeing Walker Coonhound mix from New York. Vanessa and Ryan Marquette first met Nola when they brought her into their home as a foster. She was adorable and well-behaved, quickly connecting with the couple and making herself at home. It didn’t take long for the couple to fall in love. It was only three months after first bringing her home that they made it official and adopted her. “We could tell right away she felt so at home,” Ryan stated, “and she quickly became part of the family.” Not long after welcoming Nola into the family, a pet sitter mentioned that she was exhibiting an interesting (and potentially problematic) skill. They warned the couple that the pup had managed to jump over the tall fence that surrounded their property. Given the height of the fence and the fact that they had never seen Nola making any impressive jumps in the house, it was hard for the Marquettes to believe that she could leap over the fence in one bound. It seemed like an unbelievable feat. So, they pushed the idea aside and didn’t give it another thought. “I didn’t believe that she was jumping the fence. That’s a four-foot jump. That’s significant. She’s not the biggest dog in the world. So, I remember going out and walking the entire fence perimeter, looking for holes because I was like, there’s no way. She’s slipping out underneath somewhere doing something, and that’s how she’s getting out. Then I found nothing,” Ryan explained. However, after moving to a new home in Syracuse, New York, with a larger yard and trees around the property, they noticed something interesting. It wasn’t that Nola was “jumping” over the fence. Instead, she was using her own take of puppy parkour to scale the fence with the help of a nearby tree.

A Month of TLC Transforms a Practically Feral Dog Into a Loving Pet

A two-year-old Great Pyrenees, named Wesley, arrived at Austin Pets Alive with a nasty-looking neck wound. One look at the fluffy pooch would surely melt your heart, but a month ago Wesley desperately hoped no one would look his way. According to a post from Austin Pets Alive, rescuers found a practically feral Wesley running with a pack of stray dogs. A concerned citizen called Austin Animal Center after they spotted a fluffy dog with a serious-looking neck wound. After receiving the call, Austin Animal Center picked up the injured Great Pyrenees and removed a piece of old rope that was embedded in the dog’s neck. Since Wesley still required medical assistance after the rope was removed, Austin Animal Center transferred him to Austin Pets Alive.   Wesley arrived at the rescue frightened and in pain. “He needed lots of medical care, attention, and his favorite snack, cheese, which he prefers to enjoy when no one’s watching,” said Clare Callison, the director of national programs at Austin Pets Alive. Thanks to donations, the rescue was able to cover the cost of Wesley’s wound care, which totaled hundreds of dollars. “Our community’s love for pets is immense and generous donations help cover Wesley’s medical expenses and ensure he receives the best care possible.”While donations helped heal Wesley’s flesh wounds, Alex, an Austin Pets Alive staff member helped mend the dog’s broken heart. “The fluffy boy was in need of our Medical Triage & Wellness Clinic due to a large wound around his neck, but he was practically feral, so giving him medical attention required some added patience,” wrote Austin Pets Alive in a Facebook post. Over the next several weeks, “Alex showed up for Wesley day in and day out, patiently showing this injured soul that people can be good and offer love. Gradually trust was gained and these two formed a friendship that will last a lifetime,” the rescue wrote in a post. When Wesley first arrived at the rescue, he was shut down and scared. The poor pooch didn’t want to be seen or touched, shying from any physical affection. Over time and thanks to Alex’s continued efforts, Wesley started to open up. Gradually, the pup began to acclimate to love and affection, starting with gentle touches and petting and working up to real play sessions. At first, Wesley was terrified of wearing a harness and walking on a leash. But thanks to Alex’s patience and a lot of delicious treats the fluffy pup is no longer scared of being leashed and enjoys going on long walks. Only a month after he arrived at the rescue in a horrifying condition, Wesley has blossomed into a trusting and loving dog. Soon after, Wesley was deemed healthy and placed in a foster-to-adopt home, handpicked by Alex. The pup’s new family has spent weeks getting to know him and learning about his routine and the things he likes and dislikes. According to Austin Pets Alive, Wesley has settled nicely into his new home and has adjusted to his new family.This pooch made a 180 transforming from a practically feral stray dog to a loving and affectionate companion to his new family. This goes to show that a little patience, love, and determination can make a huge difference in the life of a stray dog.  Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Do I Keep My Reptile from Overheating?

Reptiles are cold-blooded creatures, soaking up the sun to regulate their body temperature. But this doesn’t mean that they love ALL heat. As the temperatures climb outside, your reptile’s enclosure can quickly become dangerously hot, leading to serious health issues.This blog post will be your summer survival guide, packed with tips and tricks to keep your best friend cool and comfortable all summer long.What Happens if a Reptile Gets Too Hot?Overheating, or hyperthermia, occurs when a reptile's body heat rises dangerously high due to outside sources, and they are unable to adjust as necessary to bring it back down to a safe level.As cold-blooded animals, reptiles rely on outside influences for their temperature. If they are too cold, they seek heat. Likewise, if they are too hot, they seek a cooler area. However, if no cool space is available, their body temperature will continue to climb.Overheating can lead to dehydration, tissue/organ damage, or organ failure. Just as heatstroke can be fatal in dogs and cats, overheating can also be life-threatening for our reptile friends.What Temperature is Too Hot for Reptiles? Each reptile species has its own ideal temperature. For example, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the Greek tortoise thrives most in temperatures between 68 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the green iguana prefers warmer temperatures, between 84 and 91 degrees Fahrenheit. These temperatures reflect the reptile's typical natural environment.You will need to research the specific species to determine what temperatures are safe for your reptile and what are considered too hot. You can do this by looking up that information online, but ensure you only trust a reliable source. Another great way to find out your pet's ideal temperature is to speak with your exotic animal veterinarian. If you don’t already have a vet specializing in exotic animals like reptiles, this is the perfect opportunity to start your search. The Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians database is a great place to start!

Elephants Might Use Unique Names For Each Other, Just Like Us Humans

It seems that humans are not the only ones in the animal world to use personal names – according to a revolutionary new study, African elephants also refer to one another through unique sounds. The study, published in Nature Ecology & Evolution, reveals that elephants can hear their own names over long distances, across the African savanna, and that they speak to one another through a series of low rumbles. The scientific team also reveals that elephants can learn to recognize and call to their mates using their “personal” names, instead of just basic sounds.“Here we present evidence that wild African elephants address one another with individually specific calls, probably without relying on imitation of the receiver,” the study reads.In order to achieve these impressive results, the study used machine learning to demonstrate that the receiver of a call could be predicted from the call’s acoustic structure, regardless of how similar the call was to the receiver’s vocalizations.A herd of African elephants was followed in jeeps in the wild, at Kenya’s Samburu National Reserve and Amboseli National Park, in order to closely observe their behavior and how they call out, and who responds."We've had several incidents where we've been with these elephants and the matriarch of the family will give a call, and everyone in the family will answer,” co-author and Colorado State University ecologist George Wittemyer, said to ITV News. "Then several seconds later, she'll give seemingly a very similar call and nobody in the family would answer except one individual."Researchers then played these recordings of the individual names to elephants and learned that the animals responded more enthusiastically by flapping their ears and lifting their trunks, whenever they heard their own names. “Just like humans, elephants use names, but probably don’t use names in the majority of utterances, so we wouldn’t expect 100%,” study author and Cornell University biologist Mickey Pardo added. Scientists say that animals with complex social structures and close-knit families are more likely to use personal names, as it helps them to be reunited if separated. “If you’re looking after a large family, you’ve got to be able to say, ‘Hey, Virginia, get over here!’ ” Duke University ecologist Stuart Pimm said.“Elephants are incredibly social, always talking and touching each other - this naming is probably one of the things that underpins their ability to communicate to individuals,” Wittemyer added, “We just cracked open the door a bit to the elephant mind.”

5 Cat Breeds with Unique Features

Every cat breed has its own set of distinguishing features, but there are some breeds that are especially eye-catching because of their standout characteristics. Here’s a short list of some unique cat breeds that are sure to grab your attention and your heart.

Why is My Dog Chewing Furniture and How Do I Stop It?

Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs. We’ve all seen the classic image of a dog happily gnawing on a bone. But what happens when this behavior turns destructive and that bone is replaced by your favorite couch cushion or a new pair of shoes?If your dog has developed a taste for your furniture, you’re not alone. This unwanted behavior can be frustrating, but what can you do to stop it?In this guide, I will discuss the common reasons for destructive chewing and share effective strategies to help you protect your furniture while keeping your dog happy and healthy.Normal Chewing vs Destructive ChewingNot all chewing is problematic. In fact, chewing the right things can benefit your dog by offering enrichment, entertainment, and helping to keep their teeth clean. This behavior crosses the line into destructive chewing when their attention turns from their toys and chews to items they shouldn’t chew on. This includes chewing furniture, baseboards, shoes, remote controls, pillows, or even your arms. As a pet parent, it’s your job to teach your dog what is okay to chew and what is not. In the meantime, to keep your pup safe, you’ll need to manage the situation to prevent them from chewing something that could lead to gastrointestinal obstructions or other dangerous complications. Common Causes for Destructive ChewingOne common mistake people make when trying to correct or end unwanted behaviors is to train away the behavior itself without ever understanding why they are engaging in that behavior. As a result, the behaviors may appear to be gone only to return shortly (often worse). Instead, start by identifying the root cause of your dog’s behavior and address that problem. You may still need to do some work after to break the habit of chewing things they shouldn’t, but with no underlying cause continuing to trigger that reaction, they are less likely to start up again. Here are some of the most common causes for destructive chewing to help get you started: Separation Anxiety Do you have a dog that becomes incredibly upset and stressed about being left at home alone? If so, you may return from work or a visit with friends to find your dog has been trying to soothe their stress and anxiety by chewing. Separation anxiety is a very complex problem that isn’t going to go away on its own if you ignore it. Instead, you will need to practice consistency and patience, creating a routine and an environment that allows your dog to relax and feel secure. The solution may look slightly different from dog to dog, and you may need to try a few options before finding the correct fix (or combination of fixes). Some steps to consider include introducing a routine so they know when you are leaving (and returning), avoiding making leaving the house a big deal, or incorporating comforting elements into your dog’s space to ease their anxiety. If your dog’s separation anxiety is extreme or isn’t easing with any of your efforts, consider speaking with a behaviorist or talk to your veterinarian about calming options. Boredom If your dog isn’t getting the physical and mental enrichment they need to provide a safe and appropriate outlet for their energy, they may resort to creating their own entertainment. Picture a toddler left to entertain themselves – they will likely make a mess! Caring for a dog is very similar to caring for a toddler in many ways. The amount of exercise your dog requires to meet their needs will vary from dog to dog, depending on their age, breed, lifestyle, and any underlying health issues. For example, a young, healthy herding breed like a border collie will generally need much more daily enrichment than a senior basset hound who naps most of the day. While this is one of the most common reasons for destructive behavior, it’s also one of the easiest to address. Make sure you are considering not only physical activity but also how to offer mental enrichment. In fact, experts say that mental enrichment will burn your dog’s excess energy way quicker than physical activity alone. Some great ways to entertain your dog include: Going for a “sniffari” walkPlaying a game of frisbeeBuilding a DIY busy box Using food puzzles or snuffle matsDoing scent workTraining your dog to do fun tricksTeethingDo you have a young puppy chewing on inappropriate things around the house? They may be currently teething and trying to ease the discomfort. Like young children, a teething puppy will chew on just about anything and everything. Rather than trying to stop them from chewing, consider how to ease their pain and offer appropriate chewing options. Unlike the other causes on this list, they will grow out of the teething stage. However, if they are allowed to chew on whatever they want, it can create a bad habit that will continue into their adult lives. Stress and AnxietyWe already discussed separation anxiety, but this isn’t the only form of anxiety your dog may be struggling with. It’s possible your dog’s destructive chewing could be an attempt to soothe themselves while dealing with stress from many sources, including a recent move, the addition of a new family member (human or pet), renovations in the home, or a significant change to their routine. If your dog is experiencing stress and anxiety to the point they are engaging in these behaviors, they are struggling mentally. This should be taken seriously, as it can significantly impact your dog’s health and well-being. Consider bringing up your concerns with your veterinarian. They will be able to make recommendations to improve their quality of life. At What Age Do Dogs Stop Destructive Chewing? If your dog’s destructive chewing is the result of teething and puppy curiosity, they may grow out of it between six and eighteen months as they mature. But this isn’t a guarantee. As previously mentioned, even these behaviors can lead to bad habits later in life. Rather than assuming the problem will clear up on its own, the best approach is to take a proactive approach and take steps to manage the situation, address the root cause, and stop the problematic chewing once and for all.

Can Dogs Get Hiccups?

Nobody likes hiccups, least of all dogs! That’s right – dogs can get hiccups just like humans. Those pesky little rhythmic contractions of the diaphragm can go on forever, producing that classic “hic” sound and annoying everyone, starting with the one who is hiccuping, even when it’s your pooch. If you are surprised to learn that dogs can get hiccups, read on to find out what causes it and how to stop it.Why Do Dogs Get Hiccups?Hiccups are not a serious issue and they occur in dogs for the same reasons they appear in humans. They are brought about by an involuntary spasm of the diaphragm muscle. This is immediately followed by a sudden closure of the vocal cords, resulting in the classic hiccup sound. But still, there are several reasons why these spasms might occur. Here are just a few:Eating too quickly:If your pet consumes water or food very quickly, they might swallow air as well. The excess air can irritate the diaphragm and result in hiccups.Too much excitement or stress:When a dog is nervous, too excited, or in a stressful situation, they can also hiccup. This most often occurs in puppies, who are generally much more excitable than adult dogs. Digestive upset:Dogs are voracious eaters and won’t be picky about their food. Sometimes, however, they can have digestive issues such as indigestion and gas. This then irritates the diaphragm, leading to hiccups. This is the most common occurrence, and results from the dog eating something that doesn’t really agree with their stomach – if you have an indiscriminate eater in your household, it pays to have activated charcoal on hand to ease their tummy troubles.

Marley the Tuxedo Wins UK's National Cat of the Year Award

Bringing comfort and support to women in a London safe-house, this feline takes top prize.

Do Dogs Sweat?

As the hot summer months roll in with a bang, you might find yourself drenched in sweat. With the climate going haywire, it is a common thing all across the world. While trying to cool down, you might be wondering if your pet is doing the same– do dogs sweat like humans do? To answer this question, it is important to understand how dogs regulate their body temperature and to dive deep into the intriguing aspects of canine physiology. Do Dogs Sweat?Humans have a well-developed system of sweat glands that are distributed across the skin’s surface. These glands are known as eccrine glands and they play a crucial role in thermoregulation by secreting sweat, which cools down the body as it evaporates. Dogs, however, have a totally different “mechanism” for managing heat.Of course, they also have sweat glands, but these are primarily located in their paw pads. They are called merocrine glands and are similar to human eccrine glands but are less numerous and less effective at cooling the body. While doggos can produce a small amount of sweat through their paw pads, it is still not enough to significantly impact their overall body temperature.So how do they cool themselves? Well, the primary way dogs regulate their body temperature is through panting. When a dog pants, it rapidly breathes in through the nose and out through the mouth, allowing moisture to evaporate from the tongue, mouth, and upper respiratory tract. This process effectively dissipates heat and cools the dog down. Panting also increases the airflow over the moist surfaces, enhancing evaporation and heat loss. 

Crocs for Pets Are Now a Thing – You Can Get a Matching Pair, Too!

Crocs took the world by storm once they were released. Superbly comfy, good for the feet, and somewhat quirky, these “clogs” were irresistible to some and ugly to others. But love ‘em or hate ‘em, you definitely know what Crocs are! And while they have been around for quite a while, our pets never really got a chance to experience their unique comfort. But that is all about to change. The Crocs brand is now expanding its range of models – to fit pets as well. This October, the brand announced the upcoming release of Pet Crocs, the new version of the iconic clogs that are designed for dogs. Collaborating with the dog products brand BARK, they came up with a new design that incorporates those classic elements of the Crocs, while making them safe and comfy for dogs.According to the brand’s spokesperson, the inspiration for their new Pet Crocs is directly fueled by the numerous fan requests for the design. The pleas for this to be made came for years – and now the time has come for them to be answered.

Poll Finds That Pets Provide Mental Health Benefits

The American Psychiatric Association conducted their Healthy Minds Monthly Poll in 2024 and found that pets provide mental health benefits. The results were also similar to those of the previous year’s poll.

How to Train a Dog To Wear a Halloween Costume?

Spooky season is upon us, and that means trick-or-treating, creepy decorations, cozy vibes, and, of course, scary Halloween costumes. Now, if you are a dog owner, you would naturally want your pet to wear a costume as well – ideally a one to match your own. And while this sounds quite fun, it can be difficult to get your furry friend to actually wear one. There are some dogs who are comfortable with getting dressed up, but many simply dread that idea. So how exactly can you train your dog to wear Halloween costumes if they’re not too keen on it? Here are a few tips to make trick or treating a stress-free and easy experience.How to Train a Dog To Wear a Halloween CostumeNaturally, the first and foremost step is choosing the costume. But keep in mind - it has to be the right costume. You need to consider your pet’s size, breed, and mobility before you make a choice. Tight and uncomfortable costumes simply won’t do and will cause more trouble than needed. If your pet is not a fan of dressing up, go for lightweight and simple Halloween costumes that are made from breathable and safe materials. Any unnecessary parts and tidbits that could irritate and confuse your pet need to be avoided. Of course, this also means that you need to get the right size. It is good to take some measurements of your dog before you make the purchase.