Ice Bucket Challenge for Dogs? Not Funny and Not Safe

by Mary Simpson

Published: June 17th, 2025

PETA gives two thumbs down on this viral set-up stating they consider it an "appalling betrayal" of the dog's trust.

(photo credit: Karen Images / shutterstock.com)

Back in 2014, the world was swept up in something called the Ice Bucket Challenge that launched in support of ALS awareness. While the philanthropic side of the challenge was certainly the important part, the fun of being able to willingly dump a bucket of ice-filled water over our heads while calling out friends and family to do the same, turned the challenge, viral.

Fast forward and a new trend has emerged that isn’t quite so philanthropic… or well-intentioned. It’s about turning the tide of the ice-bucket challenge onto our unsuspecting dogs and filming their frantic reaction to getting doused with icy water. Then, posting it all to various social media accounts in a bid to gain approval ratings, views, and likes. Funny? Not so much according to veterinarians. Nor, quite frankly, to any responsible pet-loving human being.

You see, it’s not only stressful for dogs but can also cause a sudden drop in body temperature that results in hypothermic shock – particularly if your dog is older, thin-coated, or in poor health. And if your dog is caught unaware and inhales quickly, he might take water into his lungs which can result in something called aspiration pneumonia.

Now, for anyone who argues that it’s a hot day and a great way to quickly cool down your pooch, pet lovers the world over aren’t buying it. The American Kennel Club (AKC) provides safe, humane tips to help your pooch beat the heat including moving them to a cool place, spraying them with cool water, using a fan to expedite cooling, and applying cool wet towels to his neck, groin and armpit to help bring his core temperature down.

Notice that nowhere is ice mentioned. In fact, AKC advises that using ice-cold compresses can actually constrict blood vessels and trap heat. Making it counter-productive.

But it’s the passive-aggressive cruelty involved in this type of prank that drew the attention and ire of PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animas). Australian rep Jason Baker stated quite bluntly that “Dousing an unsuspecting dog with water is an appalling betrayal of their trust that undoubtedly leaves them confused and terrified, and it’s every bit as egregiously cruel as it would be if it were a child being harassed and antagonized.”

For anyone with a rescue, you already know how hard it is to gain their trust and instill a sense of well-being. Consider what dumping a bucket of ice water over him will do to the bond you’ve gained.

It’s not funny. It’s not safe. And it certainly isn’t entertainment.

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and 2 felines who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

More by Mary Simpson

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

View Article

What Makes a Good Dog’s Name? — From the Dog’s Perspective

When choosing a name for a dog, owners want something personal, cute, clever, or meaningful. But while those aspects matter to humans, a dog experiences their name in a very different way. To them, it’s not a personality statement or pop culture reference, it’s a sound cue—something that helps them identify when you’re addressing them, giving praise, or issuing commands.So, what makes a dog name “good” from the dog’s perspective?

How Often Should I Clean My Fish Tank?

Keeping your fish tank clean is one of the most important things you can do for the health and happiness of your aquatic pets. A clean tank supports a stable environment, prevents waste buildup, and helps keep your fish active, stress-free, and less prone to disease. But how often should you actually clean your tank? The answer depends on several factors - like tank size, the number and type of fish, and whether it’s a freshwater or saltwater setup. Let’s break it down.Why Cleaning MattersFish naturally produce waste, and uneaten food, plant debris, and other organic matter contribute to rising levels of ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates - substances that can harm your fish if left unchecked. While a good filter helps manage this waste, it can’t do everything alone. That’s where routine cleaning comes in.There are two main types of tank maintenance:Routine maintenance, which keeps things running smoothly week to weekDeep cleaning, which is more thorough but done less frequentlyBoth are essential for keeping the ecosystem balanced and your fish thriving.Weekly Tasks: Your Regular Cleaning RoutineMost tanks benefit from a light cleaning once a week. The key task here is a partial water change - typically about 10% to 25% of the total tank volume. This helps remove harmful buildup while restoring beneficial minerals.During your weekly routine, aim to: Vacuum the gravel to remove uneaten food and wasteReplace the siphoned water with fresh, dechlorinated water at the correct temperatureTest the water for pH, ammonia, nitrites, and nitratesWipe down the glass inside the tank to remove algaeCheck the filter to ensure it’s running smoothlyObserve your fish for any signs of illness or odd behaviorThese small but consistent steps help prevent larger issues down the line.

Can Dogs Really Tell Time?

You might have noticed your dog waiting by the door just before you get home, or staring at their food bowl exactly when dinner should be served. It’s almost as if they can read the clock - but can dogs really tell time?Well, not exactly in the way humans do. Dogs can’t glance at a wall clock or count the hours, but they do have an impressive sense of timing - one that’s rooted in routine, body rhythms, and environmental cues. Let’s take a closer look at what science (and real-life dog behavior) tells us.Dogs and the Rhythm of RoutineDogs thrive on routine. They may not know it’s 7:00 PM, but they do know what 7:00 PM feels like. Their internal sense of time is shaped by:Habitual patterns (waking, eating, walking, sleeping)Biological rhythms (like hunger or energy cycles)Environmental changes (shifting light, temperature, or sounds)So when your dog waits at the window just before you return from work, it’s not because they’ve checked the time - it’s because their body has learned the rhythm of your schedule. Over time, their brain connects environmental clues and physical sensations with your arrival.The Power of Scent and SoundDogs also rely heavily on scent and sound to track time.As strange as it sounds, some scientists believe dogs might use the fading of your scent in the house as a marker of how long you’ve been gone. The longer you’re away, the weaker your scent - helping your dog estimate the passage of time.They’re also sensitive to audio cues: the rumble of a familiar car engine, footsteps in the hallway, or even the click of a neighbor’s routine can signal what’s about to happen.Do Dogs Understand “Later” or “Soon”?Dogs don’t think about time in the abstract the way we do - they live very much in the moment. So while your dog may understand that a certain cue (like you grabbing the leash) means something is about to happen, they probably don’t understand “in five minutes” or “after dinner” the way a child might.

Your Dog Will Love This Healthy 3-Ingredient Treat

If you're looking for a quick, healthy way to pamper your dog, homemade treats are the perfect solution. With just three wholesome ingredients, you can create tasty snacks that are free of artificial additives and tailored to your pup’s needs. Here’s a simple recipe that combines nutrition and flavor in every bite.

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.

What is Scent Work for Dogs?

Are you looking for new activities and events to enjoy with your pup? If so, you may want to explore the world of scent work! It’s a fun and engaging activity that allows your dog to tap into their natural abilities. It’s a great opportunity to build your bond and boost confidence through a rewarding game. If you really love it, there are even opportunities to get involved with scent work on a competitive level!In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to get started in scent work today, including a better understanding of what scent work involves, the benefits of this game for your dog, and step-by-step instructions to get started with this activity in your own home. What are you waiting for?What Is Scent Work? To truly appreciate scent work and the benefits it offers for your dog, we first need to understand the basics. This starts with the instrument at its core: a dog’s nose. The Master Tool That Is Your Dog’s Nose Your dog’s nose is more than just an adorable boopable button; it’s a masterpiece of evolution that helps them navigate the world around them. Its power is almost unbelievable! While humans have approximately 5 million scent receptors, our dogs possess 125 million to 300 million, depending on the breed. This means they can experience a world of smells that is far more detailed than anything we can even begin to imagine. They detect odors at concentrations that aren’t even noticeable to us. In addition to the number of scent receptors, the structure of your dog’s nose improves their powerful smelling abilities. When they breathe in, a fold of tissues separates the air into two distinct pathways: one for breathing and one exclusively for those receptors to detect smells. These two pathways allow them to breathe and analyze scents at the same time. They also have a specialized organ called a “vomeronasal organ” (or Jacobson’s organ) at the roof of their mouth, which detects specific scents like pheromones and other chemical signals. When all of this works together, dogs can discriminate and identify individual odors even when they are mixed together with many others. Imagine walking into a busy kitchen filled with the smells of coffee, toast, and bacon. A human nose might just smell “breakfast.” Your dog’s nose, however, can identify the coffee, the specific type of bread, and even differentiate between bacon and sausage. This incredible ability is why scent work is why they are so skilled at detecting specific substances. The Basics of Scent WorkScent work is an activity that leverages this incredible power of smell by turning it into a structured search game. At the heart of scent work is the “target odor.” This is the specific scent that your dog is trained to find. Traditional scent work often focuses on essential oils like birch, anise, or clove, diluted to a specific (and safe to smell) concentration. However, for home-based fun, a target odor can be anything from a high-value treat or specific toy to a unique household item like your car keys. The key is that the dog learns to associate this particular scent with a reward. It’s also important to note that scent doesn’t just sit still; it moves. As air moves through or over a hidden scent source, it can create a “scent cone” or “plume,” a trail of odor that disperses into the surrounding environment. Dogs are masters at finding and navigating these plums, following the scent back to the source. They learn to identify the strongest point of the scent, which leads them directly to the hidden item. An important concept to understand in scent work is the difference between the actual source of the smell (where the target odor or item is located) and contamination (residual scent left behind as the item was moved or handled). Through their training, dogs learn to indicate only at the source, ignoring the weaker contamination, but this precision takes time and practice. At its roots, scent work is a search game. You hide the target odor, and your dog uses their nose to find it. When they do so successfully, they are rewarded. This simple concept is the foundation of all scent work, from casual home activities to competitive trials. The joy for your dog comes from the hunt and the reward. For the handler, the joy comes from watching your dog engage in an activity that is fun and naturally fulfilling. The Benefits of Scent Work for Your Dog Scent work is a great way to keep your dog busy (we all know how important that is, especially if you have a young, active puppy or a high-energy dog at home). But it’s more than that! It impacts their mental, emotional, and even physical well-being, helping to give them the best possible quality of life. Here are some of the benefits it offers: Mental Stimulation and Enrichment Scent work is often described as a “brain game” because it requires your dog to use their mental abilities, including problem-solving, concentration, decision-making, and memory. Unlike physical exercise, which tires the body, scent work is a form of mental enrichment that tires the mind out in a highly satisfying way. In fact, a dog who has spent 15-20 minutes intensely searching for scents will often be as tired, if not more so, than a dog that has had a long walk! Many common behavioral problems people face with their dogs, such as destructive chewing, excessive barking, or digging, can be traced back to boredom and a lack of appropriate outlets for their pent-up mental and physical energy. Scent work gives your dog a constructive and engaging activity to channel their energy into, which goes a long way in preventing these unwanted behaviors.

The Top 7 Mistakes New Pet Owners Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Bringing a new pet into your home is exciting, rewarding, but it can also feel pretty overwhelming. Whether you’ve adopted a playful puppy, a curious kitten, or something more exotic, it’s easy to make a few missteps along the way. Here are the top 7 mistakes new pet owners make and how you can avoid them.

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.

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.

Hide and Seek for Dogs - Let's Make it Fun!

Keeping your dog mentally stimulated can be a challenge. Especially, I’ve discovered, during heat waves when outdoor activity is curtailed, rainy weather when it’s down to a quick trip around the block, and of course, icy winters when once again, outings tend to be utilitarian versus a day of fun and adventure (unless your pooch is of the Husky variety).What to do? Rather than rely on puzzle games or chew toys that will probably keep him occupied for a little while but are pretty much a solo activity, consider a rousing game of hide and seek (H&S). Yes, just like when we were kids, this seek-and-discover type of fun ticks so many of his sensory boxes. Smell, sight, sound, hunting, capturing… and, of course, the excitement of discovery.Now, if you’ve never done anything more than tuck behind a door, then spring out in front of him (that’s okay, we’ve all done it), it’s time to ratchet up your H&S skills. And have we got some tips for you.Let’s talk rules. It has to be fun (not scary), he needs to have to really work at it, win meaningful rewards, and you have to challenge him by amping up the “seek” portion over time.

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.

Are The New Pet Dryer Boxes Right for Your Pet?

(photo credit: Dorottya Mathe / shutterstock.com)It looks like a toaster oven crossed with a microwave. And while I wouldn’t suggest defrosting your frozen dinner in one, it does a pretty nifty job of drying smaller pets quickly and relatively stress-free. What it is, is a drying box and they’re being touted as a great alternative to those noisy blow dryers that typically blast out a single jet of hot air. Those hand-held devices are time-consuming when it comes to targeting all those furry little nooks and crannies and can be downright uncomfortable if directed at any one area for too long.The gadget we’re talking about here is not to be confused with dog crate dryers that clip onto your pet’s cage and direct a steady stream of warm air into the crate and around your pet. A drying box is totally sealed. Your pet goes inside and the box then fills with multiple streams of warm air that cover 360 degrees to ensure a full dry. And unlike the crate dryer, you don’t have to worry about your pet moving out of range.What I love is how quietly they operate. Less noise equals less stress in my household. However, whenever you’re talking about heating and pets, there are concerns that pet parents need to consider before using this type of dryer.Even though they have heat settings of up to 99 minutes, never leave your pet for that length of time without having them within your sightline. I think that goes without saying.Always watch your pet’s reaction to being enclosed in this type of dog coat dryer. If he’s panicked, stressed, or panting, get him out. Heat stroke is real and needs immediate attention.This type of device isn’t a smart pick for brachycephalic dogs or those with breathing issues. It’s an enclosed space that heats up quickly and you already know your dog cannot cool himself down efficiently.Only consider drying boxes that allow you to set the temperature and have ventilation for adequate air movement. Stuffy, too warm, and uncomfortable mean your pet will never agree to go into the box again.I’m prone to the options that offer side openings so you can reach in and pet your dog or cat. It’s just a little reassurance that our buddies always appreciate.

The Pros and Cons of Catios for Feline Companions

“Catio” is a cute term for an enclosed patio for cats—in other words, it’s a “cat patio.” It can stand on its own as an outdoor cat enclosure, or it can be connected to a window or door that leads to your backyard space. Either way, it lets your kitty spend time outside while remaining safely confined.

These 5 Farm Animals Make Great Pets

Farm animals are often associated with open fields and rural life, but many of them also make surprisingly affectionate, intelligent, and fun companions. While they're not your typical house pets, some farm animals can thrive in backyards or hobby farms with the right care and space. Here are five farm animals that make great pets.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Cats

With the arrival of spring and blooming trees, seasonal allergies make their return - and believe it or not, cats can have them too! Just like humans, our feline friends can suffer from allergies triggered by pollen, dust mites, and mold. While cat allergies aren’t as commonly recognized as those in dogs or people, they can still cause significant discomfort. Understanding the symptoms can help you take the right steps to keep your cat happy and healthy. Here’s what to look out for!Common Signs of Seasonal Allergies in Cats1. Persistent Scratching and Over-GroomingOne of the first signs of allergies in cats is constant itching. If your cat is scratching, licking, or biting their skin - especially around the face, ears, paws, or belly- it could be due to allergens in their environment. Excessive grooming can lead to hair loss, bald patches, and even skin infections.2. Skin Irritation and InflammationAllergic reactions often cause redness, swelling, or rashes on a cat’s skin. Some cats may develop scabs, sores, or flaky patches due to repeated scratching. If left untreated, these irritated areas can become infected, requiring veterinary care.3. Watery Eyes and Runny NoseSimilar to hay fever in humans, seasonal allergies can make a cat’s eyes watery and irritated. Their eyes may appear red or swollen, sometimes with a clear or slightly cloudy discharge. Some cats also develop a runny nose, sneezing, or mild congestion, which can easily be mistaken for a respiratory infection.4. Sneezing, Coughing, and WheezingAllergens like pollen and mold can trigger sneezing fits, coughing, and even mild breathing difficulties. If your cat is sneezing more than usual, especially during allergy season, it could be a reaction to environmental allergens. Cats with asthma or other respiratory conditions may experience worsened symptoms, such as wheezing or labored breathing.5. Ear InfectionsInflammation from allergies can lead to excessive wax buildup in a cat’s ears, increasing the risk of ear infections. If your cat is shaking their head frequently, scratching at their ears, or if you notice an unusual odor, it’s a sign that their ears may need medical attention.6. Paw IrritationAllergens can affect a cat’s paws, causing itching and discomfort. Excessive paw licking or chewing, redness, or swelling can indicate an allergic reaction. In more severe cases, open sores or infections may develop.When to See a VeterinarianMild seasonal allergies can often be managed at home, but if symptoms become severe or persistent, a vet visit is essential. Excessive scratching, hair loss, open wounds, breathing difficulties, or recurrent ear infections may require medical treatment. Your veterinarian can perform allergy tests to identify specific triggers and recommend treatments such as antihistamines, medicated creams, or dietary adjustments.How to Reduce Allergic Reactions at HomeThere are several ways to help minimize allergens in your home and keep your cat comfortable:

Why is Mental Enrichment Important for My Cat?

Have you ever walked in the door after a long day at work only to find your favorite houseplant knocked over, the curtains shredded, or your furniture scratched beyond recognition? Do you occasionally find your cat staring blankly out the window, seemingly uninterested in everything? These aren’t just quirky cat behaviors – they can be signs of boredom and a lack of mental stimulation. Just like humans, cats need mental exercise and entertainment to thrive. Imagine living in a restricted space with nothing to do for hours on end. This is where the concept of mental enrichment comes in. Mental enrichment involves providing activities and opportunities to engage your cat’s mind, satisfying their natural instincts and keeping them entertained (even when you’re not home). It’s not just about playing either; it’s about creating an environment that encourages exploration, problem-solving, and natural hunting behaviors. It’s crucial for a cat’s physical, mental, and emotional health, preventing boredom and reducing stress. It can also help build a stronger bond between cats and their humans. A mentally stimulated cat is a happier, healthier cat, and providing that stimulation is one of the most important things you can do as a dedicated pet parent. Let’s look at how to offer more mental enrichment in your home. Understanding Your Cat’s Needs Cats are naturally curious and intelligent animals, driven by natural instincts like hunting, foraging, exploring, scratching, and playing. As cat parents, it is our job to create opportunities for them to engage in these behaviors, as they are essential to their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. After all, they would spend considerable time in their natural environment doing these activities, keeping them stimulated and entertained. Domestication has introduced our cats to a new quality of life, providing safety and regular meals. But it can unintentionally restrict these critical natural outlets. Spending their lives indoors, domestic cats often lack the opportunities to hunt, explore vast territories, or engage in the same level of physical activity as they would have in the wild. This can lead to boredom, stress, anxiety, and even destructive behaviors. The connection between a cat’s mental, emotional, and physical health is undeniable. A bored cat is not just an unhappy cat; they can also experience negative physical consequences. Boredom can lead to overeating as a way to fill the void, contributing to weight gain ( obesity is a growing problem) and other related health problems. It can also manifest in behavioral issues such as excessive grooming (which can lead to hairballs), inappropriate scratching, or even aggression. In more severe cases, chronic boredom and a lack of mental stimulation can contribute to depression and other emotional disorders. Just as physical exercise is essential for a cat’s body, mental exercise is necessary for their mind. Providing mental enrichment is not a luxury; it’s a fundamental need that we need to consider and meet as loving cat parents. The Benefits of Mental EnrichmentFrom reducing boredom and stress to strengthening your shared bond, mental stimulation and enrichment play a vital role in your cat’s happiness and overall well-being. Here are a few ways providing enriching activities can positively impact your cat’s physical, mental, and emotional health:Reduce Boredom and Stress Mental enrichment activities provide essential mental stimulation for your cat, preventing boredom-related behaviors like excessive grooming, vocalization, or destructive scratching. If your cat is bored, they will look for ways to release their pent-up energy or frustration. Rather than dealing with these unwanted habits, enrichment activities provide your cat with a constructive outlet for these natural instincts. Another major concern related to boredom is stress. Chronic stress has been shown to significantly impact a cat’s health, weakening their immune system and predisposing them to various illnesses. Creating positive enrichment opportunities helps reduce stress by providing a sense of control and predictability in their environment. Encourage Natural Behaviors Enrichment toys and games are a great way to allow your cat to tap into their instincts in a safe and controlled environment. Specific examples of this include: Puzzle Feeders: Mimic the challenge of hunting. As your cat “hunts” their food in their puzzle feeder, it engages their minds and satisfies their natural predatory drive. Scratching Posts: Provide a designated space for scratching, fulfilling their natural urge to stretch their paws, mark their territory, and sharpen their claws. Interactive Play Sessions: Using wands, feather toys, or laser pointers, replicate the stalking, chasing, and pouncing behaviors they would exhibit in the wild. Cat Shelves and Furniture: Creating vertical spaces in your home provides your cat with an opportunity to climb and explore. Improve Physical Health We often consider the mental and emotional benefits of enrichment, but these activities usually go hand-in-hand with increased physical activity. Chasing a toy, climbing a cat tree, or working for their food in a puzzle feeder all encourage your cat to be more active. This helps maintain a healthy weight, improves heart health, strengthens muscles and joints, and promotes better overall agility and physical fitness. Strengthen the Bond Between You and Your Cat When you brought your cat into your life, you likely had a vision of the special bond and friendship you would share. After all, it’s one of the greatest benefits of being a cat parent. Interactive play and training sessions create opportunities for connection and communication with one another. When you engage with your cat in these activities, you’re building trust and deepening that relationship. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewarding desired behaviors with treats or praise, further build this bond and make training an enjoyable experience for both of you. Prevent Behavioral Problems As previously mentioned, boredom and frustration can manifest in a variety of bad habits and behavioral issues, including scratching, aggression, and spraying. Cats experiencing extreme stress may also withdraw from their family or hide to avoid any interaction. Mental enrichment provides an outlet for their energy and emotions, helping prevent these unwanted behaviors from developing. A mentally stimulated cat is less likely to engage in destructive or problematic behaviors. Boost Confidence Successfully completing a puzzle feeder, mastering a new trick, or exploring a new environment can boost your cat’s confidence and overall well-being. By accomplishing something new or challenging, they experience a sense of satisfaction, which can contribute to a more well-adjusted and happy cat.

Do Ferrets Make Good Pets?

Ferrets are energetic, intelligent little mammals that have gained popularity as pets thanks to their playful personalities and curious nature. While they can make rewarding companions, ferrets aren’t the right fit for everyone. Before bringing one home, it’s important to understand what living with a ferret really involves - including their care needs, temperament, and the kind of environment they thrive in.What Are Ferrets Like?Ferrets are members of the weasel family and typically weigh between 1 to 4 pounds. They have long, flexible bodies and come in colors like albino, sable, and silver. One of the most charming things about ferrets is their endless enthusiasm - they love to explore, dig, and tunnel. If you’ve ever seen a ferret do the “weasel war dance,” you know just how expressive and joyful they can be.Are Ferrets Friendly?Yes - and surprisingly social, too. Ferrets often form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy regular interaction. Many do well in pairs or small groups, as they naturally seek out companionship. With consistent handling, ferrets can become affectionate and even enjoy cuddles, although their playfulness usually outweighs their interest in lounging.That said, ferrets are more mischievous than many other pets. They’re curious, fast, and full of energy, so a calm lap pet they are not. Prospective owners should be prepared for daily, supervised playtime outside the cage, ideally several hours a day.How Much Space and Stimulation Do Ferrets Need?Ferrets need both room to roam and things to do. A multi-level cage with soft bedding, hammocks, and tunnels is a great base - but it's only part of the picture. Your ferret will need a ferret-proofed area to explore daily. That means blocking off small spaces, securing cabinets and vents, and keeping tempting items (like rubber bands, cords, or houseplants) well out of reach.

How to Tell If Your Dog is "Contented" Happy... or Just Faking!

Yes, there's a difference between temporarily happy and deep down content... here's how to differentiate.

Top stories

Ice Bucket Challenge for Dogs? Not Funny and Not Safe

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

Things to Consider Before Getting a Ferret

Top stories

Ice Bucket Challenge for Dogs? Not Funny and Not Safe

Related articles