It's a Thing! Pets in China Work in Cafes for Snack Money

Rescue Dog Goes on Tour with Pink to Find Forever Home

We often hear about musicians and artists making an impact through financial donations or participating in charitable events. But a new heartwarming story of a dog’s search for his forever home has been capturing the hearts of animal lovers everywhere. Graham Cracker was found by a young girl in the woods of Vilonia, Arkansas, with his mother and littermates. She had been sneaking food to the stray mama dog, trying to do what she could to help. After her mother found out about the dogs, she contacted a rescue team to find them and get the pups to safety. This was when their journey led the pups to The Bond Between, a non-profit rescue organization in Minnesota. But for Graham Cracker, this was just the beginning! On October 17th, an announcement on Instagram revealed that Graham Cracker had found a loving but very unique foster parent. After seeing the young pup’s adorable photos, Grammy-winner Pink invited the pup, who appears to be a Labrador Retriever mix, to join her and her family on tour. She went on to announce the decision to her fans during her St. Paul, MN show:“We rescued a puppy from this awesome organization called The Bond Between. His name is Graham Cracker. He’s currently peeing all over my dressing room,” Pink stated while seated at her piano on stage. “We’re actually – I haven’t told anybody this yet, but we’re gonna foster him for the tour, and he’s gonna go on this big carnival adventure with us.”

Can Dogs Get Concussions?

When you combine high energy levels with clumsiness – or simple lack of cautiousness – you get your average dog’s personality. It’s no secret that canines are usually very playful and can easily get themselves in trouble because of it, but sometimes silly accidents can have greater consequences, such as a head injury. If your pet has bumped their head during rambunctious playtime, you might be worrying about a potential concussion. To cut things short, yes, dogs can get a concussion, but not every little head injury will cause one – read on for more details, symptoms, and advice on how to best handle things when your dog hits their head.Can Dogs Get Concussions? Symptoms, Causes, And TreatmentIf a dog hits their head, they can get a concussion – if the blow is a bit more severe, it can cause the brain to move rapidly within the skull, leading to a concussion. Depending on how hard the dog hit his head, there can be a variety of symptoms and consequences of a concussion. To ensure the best outcome for your four-legged friend, it is important that you know how to treat a concussion, how your pet is affected, and what symptoms to watch out for. There are numerous ways in which a dog can get a concussion. Commonly, these are falls and collisions, often during high speed running. A dog may fall from a moderate height, for example from a staircase, from the bed, or a small ledge. Similarly, they can run very fast and accidentally collide with a stationary object, such as a table leg or a wall. Of course, they can also be injured in car accidents, whether in or outside of a car. A sudden jolt or a hard impact can quickly lead to a concussion. It is one of the reasons why it’s important to follow safety precautions when driving with your dog and use a crash-tested car harness for dogs to minimize the effect of sudden braking or collision. Lastly, a dog can injure its head when fighting another animal or is hit with something hard – a falling branch, a rock, or a ball. 

Cat Breeds That Actually Like Water

Cats have a reputation for not liking water and avoiding getting wet. But there are several cat breeds that actually love water, don’t mind getting wet, and will even go swimming without a complaint. Of course, every cat is an individual, so even among breeds that are generally known for liking water, you might find kitties who aren’t fans of doing anything other than drinking it. If you’re interested in bringing home a cat who likes water, here’s a list of some of the breeds that you can consider.

Overweight Dog? Choose a Tasty CHEW Treat Versus EAT Treat.

(photo credit: moonmovie / shutterstock.com)My dogs love treats. What dog doesn’t, right? But one of mine is older, has slowed down, and therefore become a little paunchy. So, how do you toss something tasty to the other dogs, but throw her a carrot stick? You don’t. You check out some of the non-edible, savory flavored chew treats available on the market, and find one that provides her with the satisfaction of chomping down on something tasty… albeit without the calories that come from consumable treats.Now, there is a definite “wow” factor when you begin this search because you will be faced with myriad options. From those suited to smaller dogs with a discriminating palate, to larger chews designed for pooches who love to gnaw. And don’t get me started on the various flavours. Peanut butter? Yes, please! Of course, who can forget bully sticks with their softer, chewable texture that makes them easy to digest (so yes, consumable) yet a much slower eat compared to the mini, high-calorie options that get gobbled down so quickly.

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

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.

Can Dogs Get Ticks in The Winter?

Ticks are a common concern for dog owners, as these small, inconspicuous parasites can latch onto pets and cause serious health problems. While ticks are often associated with warmer months, they can also pose a threat during the winter. Understanding how ticks survive colder temperatures and the risks they present year-round can help you better protect your dog.Tick Activity in WinterWhile summer is the peak season for ticks, they don’t entirely disappear in the winter. Some species, such as black-legged ticks (commonly known as deer ticks), are particularly resilient and remain active in colder months as long as temperatures stay above freezing. These ticks can seek out hosts throughout winter, making dogs vulnerable to bites even in the off-season.How Ticks Survive the ColdTicks have adapted to survive winter by finding shelter in protected areas like leaf litter, loose soil, and underbrush. Snow can even provide insulation, allowing them to hibernate until temperatures rise. A brief warm spell during winter is enough to bring them out of dormancy, catching pet owners off guard.Regional Differences in Tick ActivityTick activity in winter largely depends on the climate and geography of your region:Cold Climates: In areas with long periods of freezing temperatures, tick activity diminishes significantly.Mild Climates: In warmer regions, such as California, the Southern United States, and parts of Europe, ticks can remain active year-round due to milder winters.Dog owners in milder climates should take extra precautions, as ticks in these areas are more likely to pose a threat even during winter months.Health Risks of Tick BitesTicks are more than just a nuisance; they can transmit serious illnesses to dogs, including:Lyme Disease: Symptoms include fever, lethargy, joint pain, and loss of appetite.Anaplasmosis: Often characterized by fever, lameness, and vomiting.Ehrlichiosis: Symptoms may include bleeding disorders, weight loss, and neurological issues.Winter-active ticks, such as deer ticks, can carry these same diseases, so year-round vigilance is essential.Year-Round Tick Prevention TipsUse Preventive ProductsProtect your dog with year-round tick prevention products, such as: Topical Treatments: Applied directly to the skin, these products repel and kill ticks.

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.

Your Relationship With Your Dog is Suprisingly Important to Him

Research shows that a strong, loving relationship with our pets is more important to them than what type of person you are.

Study Finds Humans and Dogs Bonded 2000+ Years Earlier Than Thought

There are few connections as special as those that exist between a dog and their person. But how long has this special bond existed? When did we start connecting with these incredible animals? A new study into the history of humans and dogs has revealed this special relationship may have started far earlier than we thought. In fact, evidence shows that the connection between the ancestors of today’s domestic dog and us humans may have started approximately 2,000 earlier in the Americas than was once believed to be true!How did they come to this conclusion? The research team behind this paper was led by Dr. Francois Lanoe, an assistant research professor at the University of Arizona School of Anthropology. They looked at research, data, and archaeological findings from Alaska with the hope of answering an important question related to the history of this special relationship: “Did the first humans who arrived in North and South America bring dogs with them? Or did they befriend wild wolves after they arrived?” One archaeological find that contributed significantly to their study was a 12,000-year-old canine lower leg bone found at an Alaskan dig site in 2018. A canine jawbone uncovered at another site in Alaska in 2023 offered even more insight. The jawbone was estimated to be 8,100 years old. After closely examining the bone, one thing that stood out to researchers was that the dog didn’t appear to eat salmon as frequently as other wild dogs in the area. This would mean that the dogs weren’t relying on hunting salmon and were getting the food they needed to survive from another source. They were most likely receiving food from the people they were co-existing with. Now, it should be noted that the dogs that were living with people at that time were not genetically the same as our modern domestic dogs. But it was the start of something great. Lanoe explained that the study “shows that canid-people relationships were complex, continue to be today, and involve more than domestication but also things like taming of wild wolves and commensality (wolves hanging around human settlements).” He went on to say, “We now have evidence that canids and people had close relationships earlier than we knew they did in the Americas.” If you share your heart and home with a dog, as I assume you do if you’re reading this, these findings are heartwarming. Just picture your beloved dog’s ancestors sharing a similar connection thousands of years ago, building a foundation for the bond many dog parents experience today. Here are a few ways you know your dog values your relationship and is bonded with you: Your dog follows you everywhere you go (including to the bathroom). They make eye contact with you, looking into your eyes with love and affection. They will try to get your attention, including pawing at you, kissing you, or jumping in your lap to demand some one-on-one time. Your pup loves cuddling and snuggling with you. They listen to your commands and actively try to make you happy. Here’s to the dogs who hold such a special place in our hearts and the amazing friendships we share. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Why Is My Dog Drooling?

Dog owners often notice their furry friends drooling, and in many cases, it’s completely normal. However, if the drooling seems excessive or unusual, it may indicate an underlying issue that requires attention. Understanding the reasons behind your dog’s drooling can help you determine whether it’s a natural occurrence or something that needs intervention. Here’s what you need to know.Normal Causes of DroolingAnticipation of FoodDogs are known for their love of food, and much like humans might salivate at the thought of a delicious meal, dogs may drool when they anticipate eating. This is a natural reaction triggered by their salivary glands preparing to aid digestion.Breed-Specific TraitsSome breeds, such as Saint Bernards, Bloodhounds, Newfoundlands, and French Bulldogs, are naturally prone to drooling due to their anatomy. Their loose lips and jowls make it easier for saliva to escape. If you own one of these breeds, their drooling is likely a normal characteristic.Emotional ResponsesDogs can drool more than usual when they are excited, nervous, or stressed. For instance, a trip to the vet, meeting another dog, or encountering new situations can trigger increased salivation. Pay attention to the context to identify if emotions are the cause.Heat and ExerciseOn hot days or after vigorous activity, dogs may pant to cool down, which can result in drooling. This is a natural mechanism to regulate body temperature and shouldn’t be a cause for concern unless it’s accompanied by other symptoms.When to Worry: Potential Health IssuesIf your dog’s drooling doesn’t align with the causes above, it might indicate a health problem. Below are some possible issues to watch for:Dental ProblemsConditions such as gum disease, tooth abscesses, or oral infections can cause excessive drooling. Signs to look for include bad breath, reluctance to eat or chew, or visible redness and swelling in the gums. Regular dental care, including professional cleanings and dental chews, can help maintain your dog’s oral health.

When Should I Seek the Help of a Cat Behaviorist?

Address Problems and Improve Your Cat’s Life with a Cat BehavioristIf you’re concerned about your cat’s behavior, please don’t hesitate to seek help. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your cat’s health and well-being. After all, many of these behaviors are rooted in your cat’s mental and emotional health due to stress, anxiety, fear, and other factors.Most cat behavior problems can be addressed and resolved with patience, consistency, and a little professional guidance. With the right support, your cat can overcome whatever challenges they face and thrive! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Grooming Tools for that Self-Sufficient Feline

(photo credit: lucky_pics / shutterstock.com)Do you brush your cat? Let me rephrase that. Does your cat let you brush her? Because if she’s longer-haired she should be brushed daily – regardless of how annoyed she becomes with you. And for shorter-haired felines, at least once a week to keep both cat and home, reasonably free from flying fur.But there’s more because beyond ensuring your fluffball looks her very best, brushing out all that loose fur stimulates the natural oils for a healthy, shiny coat and reduces the likelihood of her developing those dread hairballs. Yes, due to how frequently a cat licks and preens her fluffy coat throughout the day, hairballs are not uncommon. At best, they pass through her system and straight into the litter box. More typically, they build in her digestive tract until they’re too large to move through her. At this point, she regurgitates them back up as a slimy mass of hair you’re almost certain to step in. And then there are the extreme cases where the mass grows to become a solid blockage that requires veterinary intervention. So, let’s not let it get to that point.If you’re trying to keep your feline well-groomed but she won’t tolerate brushing for more than a few seconds, what can you do? Don’t give up for starters. Choose to move through the process in increments. Start with gentle brushing in the areas she approves of, then gradually increase the coverage while praising and offering treats along the way. At the same time, build the duration up from just a few seconds to a few minutes.Now, kitty may well have plans for primping that don’t include you. When that’s the case, a little hands-off assistance may be just the ticket and thankfully the pet industry has developed some cat-friendly tools your feline will actually enjoy using.

CES 2025 Included Some Really Cool Pet Tech

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

How To Care for a Hairless Cat

Are you thinking about bringing a hairless cat like the Sphynx, Peterbald, or Donskoy into your family? That’s great! But before you adopt one from a shelter/rescue or purchase one from a reputable breeder, take some time to research the needs of these unique cats. That way, you’ll know what to expect when it comes to properly caring for them.Here’s some helpful information and tips on caring for a hairless cat. You might be surprised by what they need. 

What Are the 10 Best Movies About Dogs To Stream for the Holidays?

Stream these 10 dog-related movies and warm your heart at Christmas.

Are Laser Toys Safe for My Cat?

It’s a classic feline spectacle, the tiny red dot that transforms your cat instantly into a furry ninja, chasing and leaping with unmatched intensity. But have you ever stopped to wonder… are laser toys really safe?The mesmerizing dance of the red dot has long captivated cats, from traditional laser pointers for fun interactive play with their human companions to automatic laser toys. However, somewhere amidst the playful leaps and bounds, many cat parents are now starting to express concerns about the potential risks these toys may pose.Are they genuinely harmless, or are there hidden dangers lurking beneath the surface of this seemingly innocent game? The truth is that it isn’t black and white.In this post, I will provide a balanced look at laser toy safety, addressing some of the most common concerns and offering practical tips to ensure your cat continues to enjoy safe, enjoyable play sessions, whether with or without the laser pointer. The Appeal of Laser Toys to Our CatsWhat is it about that little red dot that drives cats wild? The dancing light taps into your cat’s predatory instincts. As it darts across the floor, it mimics the movement of small prey, triggering their natural hunting drive. Think of it like a little bug skittering across your floor, the perfect target for your kitty to go after.This translates into some great benefits, especially for indoor cats who often don’t have the same opportunities for physical exercise and to use their hunting skills. Laser play sessions are an excellent outlet for pent-up energy, promoting heart health, and preventing unwanted weight gain.Beyond the physical benefits, laser toys offer valuable mental enrichment, engaging your cat’s focus and problem-solving skills as they use their brain to figure out the best approach to catch their prey. The shared experience of playing together is also a great way to strengthen your bond with one another, creating moments of joy and connection.Finally, one of the major reasons these toys appeal so much to cat parents is the price point and ease of use. Rather than investing in expensive or complicated toys, laser pointers offer a quick, easy, and budget-friendly way to entertain even the pickiest cats. Plus, there’s an entertainment factor for us, too – who doesn’t love watching their cat go crazy chasing the laser across the room?Potential Risks and ConcernsWhile there is no denying that laser toys are a fun option for entertainment, it’s crucial that, as loving, responsible cat parents, we understand the potential risks they pose so we can make the best decision for our feline family members. Eye SafetyOne of the biggest dangers associated with the use of laser pointers is the risk of eye injuries. Direct exposure to the concentrated laser beam can cause serious and potentially irreversible damage to your cat’s retina, leading to impaired vision and even blindness. Never, under any circumstances, should you point the laser directly into your cat’s eyes. Behavioral Concerns Cats are natural hunters, but their instincts and desires to hunt often revolve around a set sequence – stalking, chasing, pouncing, and finally, capturing their prey. That same sequence carries over into play that mimics hunting. Laser pointers work well to trigger the first stages of this sequence, tempting them to chase the elusive, darting light around the room. However, the concern lies in the fact that the “prey” is never truly caught. While this doesn’t bother all cats, some will find the inability to complete the hunting sequence frustrating. Over time, this lack of fulfillment in their hunting sequence can lead to the development of obsessive-compulsive behaviors.  You might observe your cat becoming fixated on any small light or shadow, especially if it moves even the slightest bit. They may also engage in repetitive, seemingly aimless behaviors, or develop anxiety and create a general sense of unease in your cat. Physical Safety HazardsNot all risks revolve directly around the use of the laser. When playing with a laser toy, most cats do so with impressive focus and excitement. This can quickly override their awareness of their surroundings, opening the door for accidents and injuries. Cats have been known to run into furniture, walls, or other obstacles in pursuit of that little red dot. There’s also a risk of falls, especially if your cat tends to scale furniture, cat shelves, and other surfaces to get to their prey. Psychological Impact of Laser Toy Play Beyond the frustration of being unable to catch their “prey,” the consistent lack of a physical reward can have a deeper psychological impact. Cats experience a unique sense of satisfaction with a successful hunt, one that is deeply ingrained. After all, a cat in the wild is obviously hunting to eat or feed their young. Too many “failed hunts” can lead to a sense of dissatisfaction and even learned helplessness. In time, your cat may start to associate playtime with frustration rather than enjoyment. This can lead to several behavior challenges, including redirected aggression. When your cat cannot catch the red dot, their prey, they may redirect that pent-up energy and frustration towards other targets, such as your hands, feet, or even other pets in your home. Best Practices for Safe Laser Toy Use Do you have a cat who LOVES their laser toy, and now you’re second-guessing your decisions as a cat parent? Even with the potential risks, you can still include laser toys in your cat’s play and enrichment as long as they are used responsibly. The following best practices will help minimize the dangers and ensure playtime continues to be both safe and fun. Choosing the Right Laser Toy When shopping for a laser pointer, stick to a product specifically labeled for pet use. They are typically low-powered and designed to minimize the risk of eye damage. Avoid using high-powered or industrial laser pointers made for presentations, construction, or other purposes, as these increase the threat of eye injuries. Look for a safety rating on the packaging or product listing for any laser pointer or laser toy you are considering. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and choose a product specifically labeled for pet use, like the PetSafe Dancing Dot Laser Cat Toy (a hit in our house).

Do Rabbits Make Good Pets for Children?

Rabbits are undeniably adorable - fluffy, quiet, and full of charm. It’s no surprise that many children (and adults!) fall in love at first sight with them. But while rabbits can make wonderful companions, they aren’t always the right fit for every child or household. Like any pet, they have specific needs and behaviors that deserve careful consideration before bringing one home.Understanding Rabbit TemperamentUnlike cats or dogs, rabbits are prey animals by nature. This means they’re often more sensitive to loud noises, sudden movements, and rough handling. Young children, especially toddlers, may have a hard time being gentle or recognizing when a rabbit is scared or stressed.Many rabbits prefer to keep all four feet on the ground and don’t enjoy being picked up or cuddled tightly. For children expecting a snuggly, always-up-for-play kind of pet, this can be disappointing. Rabbits show affection in more subtle ways - nudging your hand, flopping down beside you, or following you around when they trust you.That doesn’t mean they can’t bond with children, but it does take patience, quiet interaction, and a calm environment.Rabbits Need Daily CareCaring for a rabbit is more involved than people often expect. They require:A balanced diet of fresh hay, rabbit pellets, leafy greens, and clean water.A clean and secure enclosure that offers enough room to move around, stretch, and hide.Daily exercise outside of their cage in a bunny-proofed area to stay physically and mentally healthy.Chew toys and enrichment to prevent boredom and dental issues.Even if a rabbit is technically “the child’s pet,” the reality is that most of the daily responsibilities - cleaning, feeding, vet visits - fall to the adults. Before bringing one home, ask yourself if your family is ready to take this on for the long haul.A Long-Term CommitmentRabbits live an average of 8–12 years, and some even longer. That’s a significant commitment, especially as children grow up, go through new interests, or eventually move out. It’s important to consider not just if your child is ready for a rabbit now, but if your household is ready for one for the next decade.That said, older children - especially those who are gentle, patient, and truly interested in animals - can form deep, meaningful bonds with rabbits. With the right guidance and supervision, they can learn responsibility, empathy, and the joy of caring for another living being.Choosing the Right RabbitIf you do decide a rabbit is the right choice for your family, it helps to research different breeds. Some are known for being more easygoing and social than others. For example, Mini Lops and Holland Lops are often recommended for families because of their calm temperaments.It's also a good idea to adopt from a rabbit rescue or shelter. Not only can staff help match you with a rabbit that fits your household, but many rabbits in rescues are already socialized and litter-trained.Setting Up a Rabbit-Friendly HomeTo make your new pet comfortable, you'll need: