It's Back! 2025 American Humane Society's Hero Dog Award!

by Mary Simpson

Published: November 4th, 2025

Meet the short list of five super special dogs all vying for this year's title.

(photo credit: Julia Zavalishina / shutterstock.com)

It’s that time of year again! If you’re thinking ho-ho-holidays, the answer is “not even close”. We’re talking about the American Humane Society’s Hero Dog Award, and we’re about to take a look at the five finalists vying for this coveted honor.

Revealed just last week, these five pooches perfectly showcase what it takes to make it through the pack and to the final stages of this highly respected competition that’s been soliciting, ranking, and celebrating hero dogs for the past 15 years.

And categories aren’t limited to just the usual suspects: Military, Law Enforcement and First Responders. They also include therapy dogs, service dogs and a very special “emerging hero” category that includes shelter dogs. See? Everyone gets a chance to shine.

In fact, each year, submissions for the Hero Dog Award open to the public in early June. Dogs must reside within the United States, those nominating must own or be authorized by the owner to nominate the dog, and unfortunately, no posthumous nominations are permitted. Public voting takes place throughout August and into September, with the top five being identified by late October.

So, here we are! And who’s on the shortlist this year?

Meet four-year-old Ultra, a German Shepherd / Dutch Shepherd mix from New York City. No surprise that Ultra was chosen from the Military category, where he specializes in explosive detection and brings a tenacious nature that gets the job done.

Then there’s Law Enforcement candidate Harrison out of North Carolina. Harrison is a three-year-old yellow Labrador retriever with a techy side. Yes, this affable canine can detect USB drives, memory cards, hidden phones and hard drives that ultimately provide important evidence in criminal cases.

Moving into the Service category, Donald, who lives in sunny Florida, has acted as a guide dog for his visually impaired human since 2021. She describes the six-year-old Labrador retriever’s superpower as being intuition. A critical attribute for any service animal! We’re wondering if he can tell who’s going to win the Hero Dog Award this year?

Next, we say hello to seven-year-old Treeing Walker Coonhound Dan, who was born with a physical deformity that contracts his back legs and requires him to use special mobility wheels to get around. Showering those around his Ohio neighbourhood with confidence and positivity, this superhero pooch exudes pure joy, wherever he rolls.

And lastly, check out the Therapy hero category we a have four-year-old mixed breed, Bo. Hailing from Nashville, Tennessee, Bo’s large size and gentle demeanour have made him perfectly huggable and an ideal comfort animal for kids following a recent school shooting. A torn ACL (knee ligament) has forced him into early retirement, but clearly never out of sight or mind as his fans helped him secure a finalist spot this year.

Already figuring out which hero dog will lead the pack in 2025? Tune in to the TODAY show on Friday, November 7th, during the 3rd hour to learn if you were right!

Mary Simpson

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

More by Mary Simpson

3 Fun Facts About Poodles

View Article

Bo the Bloodhound Wins American Humane Hero Dog Award

The American Humane Hero Dog Award was given to a very special Bloodhound named Bo. He works as a Police K9 with the Gastonia Police Department in North Carolina, and has been doing so since 2023.

Meet Maverick, the Winner of the 2023 American Humane Hero Dog Award

A six-year-old European Blue Great Dane was singled out from hundreds of other dogs and crowned the 2023 American Humane Hero Dog. Maverick’s job as a therapy dog is to support military members and their families from across the country.Maverick has an extraordinary ability to provide comfort to those who need it with a simple touch of his paw. “A sign of a good therapy dog is a dog that always wants to touch you,” explained Marverick’s owner, Kelly Brownfield, from Saint Robert, Missouri. “He just has a sense of knowing what people need.”Brownfield, who works as a manager at the Fort Leonard Wood United Service Organization, told Fox News that Maverick was born for a purpose. “Maverick’s superpower is his ability to calm people with a touch of his paw, giving them strength to move forward,” she said.This gentle giant supports service members after unexpected deaths in their units, escorts children to military funerals of their parents, and helps service men and women cope with trauma. Each week, Maveric spends time with students at school, offering support to children who practice their reading skills.Tipping the scales at 150 pounds, Maverick can initially seem intimidating, but “he is literally a gentle giant,” said Brownfield. “His whole aura about him is calming.”“He is the perfect size for everything that we do. He is literally their rock; they can lean on him, and he is there for them,” his owner added. “The one thing about this breed is that they have a heart to match.”Each year, people around the country nominate hundreds of dogs in five categories - law enforcement and first responder dogs; service and guide or hearing dogs; therapy dogs; military dogs; and emerging hero and shelter dogs - for American Humane’s Hero Dog Award.Five semi-finalists, in each of the five categories, were chosen from hundreds of dogs. A competitive public vote has cut the list to only five four-legged finalists - one presenting each category. Maverick, who was competing against service dog Moxie, Coast Guard K-9 Buda, police dog Poppy, and emerging hero Raina, was crowned by the panel of judges as the winner. “We are so excited to name Maverick as the American Humane’s 2023 Hero Dog, a distinction that is well deserved for him and his owner Kelly,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane. “The duo has worked tirelessly to bring comfort and solace to our nation’s military heroes through the United Service Organization (USO), all while they both were facing their internal beatles against cancer. It’s these types of incredible stories about sacrifice, perseverance, and compassion that this award aims to spotlight.”Maverick has also offered emotional support to his owner Kelly, who has been battling cancer for the past six years. “I truly believe he knew before anyone else knew,” said Brownfield, adding that Maverick was particularly clingy, touchy, and protective in the months leading up to her diagnosis. “To have him there, especially on hard days has been just an amazing support.”The six-year-old gentle giant also faced a cancer diagnosis last year but is now cancer-free thanks to a successful surgical procedure. Although Maverick spends most of his time in Missouri, he and his owner sometimes travel around the country for work. Together, he and Brownfield have completed hundreds of special mission requests over the years.Having a therapy dog around “can help change lives,” said Brownfield. “He senses the needs of every person.”Maverick and the four other finalists will be honored at the 13th annual American Humane Hero Dog Awards in Palm Beach, Florida. The award show will air on Thanksgiving Day and November 26 on A&E.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

We Have the Finalists of the 2017 American Humane Hero Dog Awards!

These brave dogs have been voted as this year’s doggy heroes for these prestigious awards. Now’s your chance to pick the overall 2017 winner! More than half a million have voted and we’ve now got the finalists list for the top Hero Dogs of America! Already they’re winners as they have secured a prize fund of $2,500 dollars for their designated charity. The overall winner will receive a further $5,000 dollars for charity and, of course, the accolade of being the top American Hero Dog! Without further ado, let’s meet the finalists from each category: In the Law Enforcement / Arson Dogs category we have Ice from Olympia, WA. Ice was stabbed twice with a knife while chasing a suspect during a raid on an illegal marijuana plantation. Despite his wounds he refused to let the suspect go. Poor Ice was badly hurt; officers had to carry him to an open area where he was airlifted to the animal hospital. Thankfully, surgery was successful and Ice has made a great recovery. He’s even back on duty serving his country. Related: Former Rescue Ruger the Hero Dog Sends Poachers Packing Moving on to the Emerging Hero Dogs category we have Abigail from Lehigh Acres, FL. Poor Abigail has had a tough life. She was found as a stray and taken to a rescue center where they determined that sadly she had been used as a fighting dog. She had so many injuries and scars, half her face was totally missing. She really was on death’s door, but she defied the odds and made a slow but full recovery. She rose to fame, when her carers thought her bandaged face looked like she was wearing a bonnet and shared pictures of her. She melted the hearts of the nation and people started to send bonnets in for her to wear. She stands as a symbol of the battle against dog fighting. The winner of the Guide / Hearing Dogs category is Pierce from Palm Bay, FL. Pierce is a guide dog for blind Army veteran Don who decided that he was being too much of a burden on his family as they helped him getting out and about. Pierce has transformed the life of Don and his family, Don now has so much more freedom and independence all thanks to Pierce, and they’ve gained a loving friend, too. Related: The Beautiful Final Moments of A Much-Loved Military Service Dog The finalist from the Military Dogs category is Adak the German Shepherd from St Cloud, MN. Adak is incredibly clever and worked as an explosive detection dog. He was so good at his job that he was selected to sweep public places for explosives before important dignitaries visited. During the course of his career he has prevented some major disasters and has helped in many difficult and dangerous situations. He is now enjoying a well-earned retirement in a loving family home. In the Search and Rescue Dogs category, the winner was Luca from Grand Prairie, TX. During an extensive search for a missing man suffering from Alzheimer’s, it was decided that Luca should be sent in to help. Luca tracked the man down. He had become stuck in mud on a river bank. If it wasn’t for Luca, the man would likely have drowned or frozen to death. Without Luca, he would not have been found in time. The winner of the Service Dogs category is Atlas the Wonder Dog (what a fab name!). Atlas is from Dayton, OH and has transformed the life of a marine who suffered from severe PTSD after returning from Iraq. A decade of therapy and prescription drugs couldn’t do what Atlas has managed to achieve. Atlas is trained to distract and reassure when feelings of anxiety approach. He has a place in the family that enhances the life of everyone. And finally, the winner of the Therapy Dogs category is Aladdin from Haddonfield, NJ. Aladdin has undergone a huge transformation. He was found back in 2013, thin, with broken legs, open wounds and missing teeth. You’d forgive any dog with these injuries for being wary of people, but no, from day one Aladdin loved people. His tail never stopped wagging. He loves being with people so much he now works as a therapy dog, he visits schools as an anti-bullying ambassador and he adores every minute of it! Head over to the Hero Dog Awards website to vote for your choice. Want to find out which dog wins the overall title? You can watch the two hour special on the Hallmark Channel this fall.

Treating Parvovirus in Dogs with Monoclonal Antibodies

Canine parvovirus is a serious illness that can be fatal, and treating it is difficult. There’s good news, though, as researchers found a way to target the virus with monoclonal antibodies (mAb)—a step beyond merely managing symptoms. The treatment is Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody (CPMA) from Elanco. Given as a one-time IV injection, it can be used with supportive care to help dogs get over the parvovirus and recover fully. It has been around since 2023 when it was conditionally approved. But, this past June, the USDA expanded access and made it possible to also use this medication to prevent infection in dogs who are exposed to the virus.

Doorbell Cam Catches Emotional Moment as Mailman Delivers Dog’s Ashes

When Krysten Klapatauskas opened her front door earlier this month, she wasn’t expecting to break down in tears. But there was her mail carrier, Malachi Knox, standing quietly on the porch with a box in his hands. A small box. The kind no pet owner ever wants to receive.Inside were the ashes of her dog, Stoli, a German shepherd who had been part of her life for a decade.Stoli died on the Fourth of July after a battle with cancer. She was ten years old. Her remains had been shipped back to Krysten’s home in Wausau, Wisconsin, and by some twist of fate, the person tasked with delivering them was the one person outside her family who had known Stoli best.Knox had been delivering mail in the neighborhood for years. He and Stoli had a daily ritual, one that both of them seemed to enjoy. “She’d bark at him, but it wasn’t serious,” Krysten said. “When she was out on the porch, she’d wait for him. She’d roll over for belly rubs. It was their thing.”So when Krysten saw him standing there with the box, it all hit at once. The grief she had been holding back, the finality of what she was receiving, and the unexpected comfort of a familiar face. She broke down and started to cry.The moment was captured by her doorbell camera. In the video, Knox doesn’t rush away. He steps closer, sits down beside her, and places a gentle hand on her shoulder. After a few seconds, she leans into him, and they sit together quietly on the steps. No one says much, there’s not much that needs to be said.“It meant everything to me that it was him,” Krysten said later. “He knew her. She wasn’t just a name on a label. And he didn’t treat it like just another delivery.”Knox later commented on the video, which Krysten shared online. “I know how it feels to lose a fluffy friend,” he wrote. “Please show compassion and kindness. It means the world.”That comment, and the video itself, struck a chord. People from all over started sharing it, sending messages of support, and sharing their own stories of pets they had lost and small moments of kindness that helped them through it.But what made this moment so touching wasn’t just that it was caught on camera. It felt so honest, there was no plan, no performance. It was just a man, doing his job, who understood what that small box meant to the person standing in front of him.Krysten didn’t post the video for attention. She shared it because, in her words, “we need more of this in the world.” More people who pause. More people who show up in quiet, simple ways.She still misses Stoli every day. “It’s a strange kind of silence,” she said. “You go to open the door and you expect her to be there.”But she’s grateful for that final moment and the way it unfolded. And for the person who brought Stoli home one last time.This video is a reminder that kindness doesn’t need to be loud or dramatic to be powerful. Sometimes it’s just sitting down next to someone when they need it most.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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

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

FDA Approves Long-Lasting Flea and Tick Treatment for Dogs

If you’ve ever found yourself flipping through your calendar and panicking over a missed flea treatment, we’ve got news that might change your whole routine. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just approved a once-a-year flea and tick shot for dogs, and it’s already making waves in the pet world.The product, called Bravecto Quantum, is an injectable medication that protects dogs from fleas and ticks for a full 12 months. Yes, you read that right, one vet visit, and your dog is covered for an entire year.The long-acting shot contains fluralaner, the same active ingredient found in other Bravecto products, but this version is specially formulated for extended release. That means no more monthly chewables, no more oily spot-ons, and no more reminders you snooze and forget. Bravecto Quantum has been used in Australia and Europe, but as of July 2025, it’s now officially FDA-approved and set to become available in U.S. veterinary clinics this August.For busy pet parents, this new option could be a total game changer.“Year-round protection in one easy injection,” said Dr. Christine Royal, veterinarian and executive director at Merck Animal Health. “It’s a convenient and effective option that supports compliance and peace of mind.” And that peace of mind is something pet owners know can be hard to come by, especially when juggling a household, a job, and a dog who absolutely refuses to eat that monthly pill hidden in peanut butter.The shot protects against fleas and three major types of ticks - American dog ticks, black-legged ticks, and brown dog ticks - for 12 months. It also offers eight months of protection against lone star ticks, which are increasingly common in many U.S. regions.Bravecto Quantum is administered by a veterinarian, not something you can do at home, which is actually a plus. It guarantees proper dosing and gives you a reason to take your dog for an annual health check, which many vets recommend anyway.Like any medication, it’s not totally risk-free. Fluralaner belongs to the isoxazoline class of drugs, which the FDA has linked to neurological side effects such as tremors and seizures, particularly in dogs with a history of those conditions. Common side effects may include mild injection site discomfort or lethargy, but these are generally short-lived.Dr. Tina Wismer, senior director at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, says this long-acting option could be particularly helpful for certain pet families. “In areas where ticks are active year-round, or for owners who struggle to remember monthly treatments, having a once-a-year injection simplifies things considerably,” she noted.So what’s the upside of Bravecto Quantum for pet parents?For starters, it reduces the risk of gaps in protection. Skipping just one monthly dose can leave your dog vulnerable, not just to fleas, but to serious diseases like Lyme, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, all of which are transmitted by ticks.It also means fewer products in your cabinet, fewer dosing errors, and let’s be honest, fewer wrestling matches with your dog on the kitchen floor.That said, it’s not a magic fix-all. You’ll still want to maintain a clean home environment, wash bedding regularly, and keep your yard tick-free. Flea and tick protection works best when it’s part of a bigger strategy.If your pup is six months or older and in good health, talk to your vet to see if the new shot might be right for them. It might just be the simplest way yet to keep them safe and give you one less thing to worry about for the next 365 days.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Ohio Bill Would Make Declawing Cats Illegal

Declawing cats could become illegal in Ohio, thanks to a bipartisan proposal known as Senate Bill 252, which was introduced by Senator Al Cutrona and Senator Hearcel Craig.

How Season Changes Can Affect Your Pets (and What You Can Do About It)

Just like us, our furry (or feathery or scaly) companions can feel the shift when the seasons change. While they may not be reaching for pumpkin spice lattes or sunscreen, pets are surprisingly sensitive to changes in weather, daylight, and temperature.Understanding how these changes affect them can help you keep your pet comfortable, healthy, and happy year-round.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Why Won't My Bearded Dragon Eat?

It can be concerning when your bearded dragon suddenly stops eating - especially if you’re not sure what’s causing the change. Bearded dragons are generally good eaters, so a lack of appetite is usually a sign that something’s off. The good news is that most feeding issues have identifiable causes, and once you figure out what’s wrong, you can usually correct it. Here’s what to consider if your bearded dragon won’t eat.Improper Tank ConditionsOne of the most common reasons for appetite loss is incorrect temperatures or lighting inside the enclosure. Bearded dragons rely on external heat to digest their food. If the basking area is too cool, their metabolism slows down, and they may stop eating altogether.Make sure your setup includes:A basking area between 95–110°FA cool side around 75–85°FProper UVB lighting, replaced every 6 to 12 months depending on the typeUVB light is essential for synthesizing vitamin D3, which helps them absorb calcium. Without it, bearded dragons can develop serious health issues, including loss of appetite.

Why Can't My Cat Pee? Understanding Urinary Blockages

One of the most terrifying and often misunderstood emergencies that cat parents may encounter is a urinary blockage. It’s not just a simple accident outside the litter box or a minor discomfort when using the bathroom; it’s a critical, life-threatening situation that can escalate fast. That’s why it’s so important to be familiar with the urgent warning signs and know how to act quickly.This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the earliest clues to watch out for to steps you can take to prevent a urinary blockage from occurring in the first place. While we can’t promise you’ll never face this frightening condition, we ensure you have the information necessary to address the problem properly and give your best friend the best quality of life.What Exactly is a Urinary Blockage in Cats? Let’s start at the beginning. A cat urinary blockage is a condition that occurs when something blocks the urethra (the narrow tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body). Picture a kink in a garden hose, preventing the water from flowing through. In a cat, this means urine backs up in the bladder, which can become painfully full and swollen. Not only does this cause a lot of discomfort, but it can also be incredibly dangerous when the bladder can’t empty. Toxins that would usually be flushed out in the urine begin to build up in the bloodstream. This can lead to kidney damage, electrolyte imbalances, and even potentially cause a bladder rupture. Any cat can experience a urinary blockage, but male cats are particularly at risk. This is due to their anatomy: a male cat’s urethra is much longer and narrower than a female’s, making it easier for even small obstructions to get lodged and cause a complete blockage. Watch Out for These Signs of TroubleYour cat’s litter box is often the first place you’ll notice a problem. Paying careful attention while cleaning their box can literally save their life! Some litter box-related warning signs include: Straining to Pee: This is the most common and critical sign. You might notice your cat is squatting repeatedly in the litter box, often for extended periods, but producing little to no urine. They may vocalize, cry out, or grunt while attempting to go. Frequent Trips to the Litter Box: Your cat might go in and out of the litter box multiple times within a short period, appearing anxious or restless, often without success. Accidents Outside the Litter Box: If your cat, who is typically well litter-trained, suddenly starts peeing outside the box in places like the bathtub or on laundry, it’s likely not just “bad behavior.” These accidents are a sign of discomfort or a medical issue. Look for small puddles, even just drops, to identify that a urinary blockage could be responsible. Behavioral and Physical Warning SignsBeyond the litter box, a blocked cat will often show other signs of pain or distress, especially as the condition worsens. Here are a few changes to watch out for: Vocalization: Your cat may be more talkative than usual, crying, howling, or meowing excessively, especially when attempting to use the litter box or if you touch their abdomen. This is a sign they are in pain. Restlessness or Hiding: A cat in pain may become restless, start pacing, or be unable to settle. On the other end of the spectrum, some cats will hide when feeling uncomfortable. Weakness or Loss of Energy: As toxins build up in their system, your cat will become lethargic, weak, and depressed. You may notice they lose interest in their favorite activities, play toys, or even physical interaction with their person (you). Abdominal Pain or Bloating: If you gently feel your cat’s lower abdomen (behind their hind legs), it may feel hard, firm, or bloated due to a full, painful bladder. Your cat will likely try to pull away or react negatively to being touched in this area. Vomiting and Loss of Appetite: These are later signs, indicating that toxins have built up to the point of significantly impacting their system. When a cat reaches this stage, they are experiencing serious medical complications. The “No Urine” Red Flag If your cat is straining repeatedly and producing no urine at all for several hours, this is a serious and life-threatening emergency. Do not wait! Call your veterinarian or the nearest emergency clinic immediately. What Causes Urinary Blockages? Urinary blockages are often part of a broader condition known as Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD), an umbrella term used to describe several disorders that affect a cat’s bladder and urethra. In many cases, the exact cause of FLUTD isn’t found. Experts say it is often a combination of contributing factors, including: Diet: Cats on an exclusively dry food diet often have lower water intake, leading to more concentrated urine, which can increase the risk of crystals forming. Diets high in certain minerals (like magnesium and phosphorus) can also increase the risk. Finally, diets that don’t promote an ideal urine pH may increase the risk of crystals and bladder stones. Water Intake: Dehydration is incredibly common in cats. This could be due to a dry food-only diet or a reluctance to drink enough water throughout the day. Stress: Environmental stress is a massive trigger for FLUTD flare-ups. Stress may be caused by changes in routine, new pets, changes to the family members in your home, household conflict, home renovations, or even a dirty litter box. Obesity: Overweight cats may be at a higher risk for urinary issues. Genetics: Some individual cats or breeds (like Persians and Himalayans) may be genetically more likely to develop urinary problems.

5 Common Home Decor Items That Are Risky to Keep Around Dogs

When decorating your home, it’s easy to focus on aesthetics and forget that some popular decor choices can actually be dangerous for your dog. While many items seem harmless to us, they can pose serious health or safety risks to our four-legged friends. Here are five common home decor items that dog owners should be cautious about.

Don’t Wait and See: When Your Hiding Cat Is a Sign of Trouble

Have you ever returned home from a long day at work only to find your cat squeezed into a dusty corner of the closet or peeking out from under the couch, refusing even to come out when they’re called? It’s easy to laugh it off and think, “My cat’s just being a cat.” But is that all that’s happening? While it’s true that cats love a good hiding spot, a cat who is suddenly or persistently hiding is often trying to tell you something important. Their disappearance is more than just enjoying some “me time,” it can be a vital clue that there is something “off” in terms of their physical or emotional well-being. In this post, we’ll explore the different reasons your cat may be hiding, from stress in their home environment to a serious medical issue, so you can determine if your cat’s newest behavior quirk is a normal response to things in their life or a cry for help. Why Cats HideHiding is an instinctual behavior for cats, rooted in their evolutionary history as both predators and prey. A cat might be in a playful mood, hiding to pounce on a toy or an unsuspecting household member. Our cats love sneaking up on our playful pup, Lucifer. They may also seek out a hiding spot for a quiet nap away from the hustle and bustle of a busy family household. This is the normal side of hiding, and it’s a sign that a cat feels secure and comfortable enough to relax in their environment. However, there are also times when your cat’s hiding may be a warning sign of an underlying problem. In these cases, the only way to help your cat feel more comfortable in their home is to first address the cause. Emotional and Behavioral Reasons for Hiding A cat’s hiding can be a coping mechanism or a response to stress, anxiety, or fear. Changes in the home, such as the arrival of a new baby, the introduction of a new pet, or even just the presence of guests visiting, can feel overwhelming. Loud noises, such as fireworks, thunderstorms, or home renovations, can also send a cat running for cover. In these cases, hiding is their way of managing their sensory overload and reclaiming a sense of control over their environment. Hiding as a Medical Red FlagA sudden change in a cat’s behavior, such as hiding when they are usually social, is often a significant red flag. This can signal a serious medical problem requiring a visit to your veterinarian. A cat in pain or discomfort will often retreat to a secluded spot to avoid being touched or to protect a sensitive area. This could be due to anything from a painful tooth to arthritis or an internal injury. Similarly, a sick cat will instinctively hide, a behavior that dates back to their wild ancestors hiding any signs of vulnerability from predators. Contact your veterinarian if your cat is hiding and also showing other symptoms, like: Loss of appetite Changes in litter box habits Lethargy Uncharacteristic aggression when approachedAs cats age, they may also start to hide more due to a decline in their senses or because of conditions like feline cognitive dysfunction ( dementia in cats), which can cause disorientation and confusion. It’s critical to remember that cats are masters of hiding their illnesses, which means you must closely monitor any changes in their behavior. If you are concerned about your cat’s well-being or suspect there could be a medical issue at play, get help as soon as possible. Waiting to see if they “snap out of it” can be dangerous. When to Reach Out to Your Veterinarian It can be hard to know when hiding crosses the line from a simple behavioral quirk to a serious or potentially life-threatening medical concern. While it’s always best to follow your gut, here is a checklist of warning signs that can help you recognize when it’s time to call the vet and put an end to the “wait and see” approach: Duration: If your cat is hiding for more than 24 to 48 hours and won’t even come out for food, water, or to use the litter box, something is wrong. Accompanying Symptoms: Pay close attention if hiding is paired with any other signs of illness or distress. As I already mentioned, this may include changes in appetite or thirst, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or a noticeable change in their usual behavior. Unusual Hiding Spots: A cat who normally hides under the bed but is now found cowering in the back corner of the closet may be trying to tell you something significant. Additional Behavioral Changes: Does your usually friendly, social cat hiss, growl, or swat at you when you approach their hiding spot? This is a serious sign of pain or fear. Physical Signs: Any visible signs of injury, such as limping, a visible wound, or difficulty breathing, coupled with hiding, should be considered an immediate emergency. When you bring your cat to the vet, be prepared to discuss any warning signs or changes in detail. Keeping a journal of your cat’s behavior can help ensure you don’t forget anything important. The vet will likely perform a careful physical exam and ask questions about your cat’s history and any changes you’ve observed. They may recommend diagnostic tests, such as blood work, urinalysis, or X-rays, to get a full picture of what may be happening internally. Ultimately, a vet visit is the only way to get a definitive diagnosis and identify the proper treatment for your cat. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the health and well-being of your best friend!

How to Trim Your Cat’s Nails Safely

Cats are meticulous groomers, usually handling their hygiene like little pros. But there’s one grooming task they can’t quite manage on their own - trimming their nails. While it might feel intimidating at first, regular nail trims are an essential part of feline care. They help prevent painful overgrowth, protect your furniture (and your skin), and support your cat’s overall well-being. With the right approach, trimming your cat’s nails can become a calm, even routine, part of your care routine.Why You Shouldn't Skip Nail Trimming Your cat’s claws serve many purposes - from climbing and scratching to marking territory. But for indoor cats, those claws don’t wear down naturally as they might for outdoor explorers. Left unchecked, nails can grow too long and even curl into the paw pad, which is painful and can lead to infections.Overgrown nails can also get caught in fabric or carpet, causing distress or injury. And of course, sharp claws can mean shredded furniture and surprise scratches during playtime. Regular trims help prevent all of this.How Often Should You Trim?Most indoor cats benefit from a nail trim every 2 to 4 weeks. A good sign it's time? You hear clicking sounds when they walk on hard floors or you see their claws snagging on blankets or upholstery.What You’ll NeedBefore you start, gather your tools:

New Genetic Test Can Detect Kidney Disease Risk in Cats

Kidney disease is common among cats, and it’s a progressive condition without a cure. Catching it early may give you the chance to work with your veterinarian to slow its progression, but even that can be a challenge, which is why experts have been working on ways to diagnose chronic kidney disease sooner. Now, there’s a new genetic test that can help you do just that. It may even give pet parents a heads-up years in advance of kidney disease symptoms.

How Pets Boost Your Immune System?

Living with pets offers many health benefits. From lower blood pressure and reduced risk of heart disease to better mental health, owning a pet can be a key to a healthier you. However, that’s not all; research has shown that living with a cat or a dog can enhance your immune system. One of the strongest scientific arguments that supports the idea that pets boost immunity is based on the “hygiene hypothesis.” Based on this theory, early exposure to a diverse range of microbes, often found on pets and in outdoor environments, helps the developing immune system to distinguish between harmful and harmless agents. Some scientists believe that without this exposure, the immune system may become hyper-reactive, increasing the likelihood of allergies and autoimmune conditions. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that children who grew up on traditional farms or in households with multiple pets had lower rates of childhood asthma and allergies compared to children who grew up in petless urban settings.Another study has discovered that a child’s allergy risk at ages seven and nine lowers proportionally with the number of pets that were kept at home in early childhood. “It’s not a universal cure-all, and every time I give a lecture on this, someone goes ‘Well I grew up on a farm and I’ve got allergies’, but we know that if you grow up physically interacting with farm animals, you have about 50% reduction in your likelihood of developing asthma or allergies,” said Jack Gilbert, a professor at the University of California San Diego.Research also showed that some bacterial strains found on pets get transferred to their owners through proximity or touch. While this may seem unappealing to some people, it’s a type of natural microbiome exposure that can shape the immune system, particularly in early life. Dogs, more than cats, carry dirt and bacteria from the outside, broadening the household’s microbiome. Gilbert believes that our immune systems have evolved to be stimulated by the microbiome pets carry. Although these microbes are not with us all the time, our immune system recognizes the familiar signals as they come through, which helps the immune system develop in the right direction. “Over many millennia, the human immune system got used to seeing dog, horse, and cow bacteria. And so when it sees those things, it triggers beneficial immune development. It knows what to do,” said Gilbert.Another way pets may boost our immune systems is through stress regulation. Research has shown that chronic stress can undermine the immune system by elevating cortisol levels. In turn, a weakened immune system lowers the body’s ability to fight off diseases. Numerous studies found that interacting with pets, whether it’s walking a dog or stroking a cat, lowers cortisol levels and boosts oxytocin. This improves mental health and also supports a better immune response.Owning a pet, especially a dog, often leads to increased physical activity. Adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, and dog owners are more likely to achieve or exceed this objective.Exercise, in turn, has a beneficial effect on your immune health. It’s well-documented that exercise improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and even slows age-related immune decline. This is amazing news for pet parents, and new research continues to show that living with pets throughout our lives can be beneficial for our immune health and overall well-being. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How to Stop Your Dog From Eating Your Cat's Food

If your dog keeps sneaking bites from the cat’s dish, you’re not alone. Many dogs are drawn to cat food because it smells and tastes richer than their own.While an occasional nibble might seem harmless, regularly eating cat food can actually lead to health problems for your dog and cause tension with your cat. Here’s how to handle it.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

3 Fun Games to Keep Your Dog Cool This Summer

Long walks and high-energy fetch sessions are generally off the cards when temperatures soar, but that doesn’t mean playtime has to take a backseat.Here are three fun, simple games that help your dog stay active and cool when the weather’s blazing.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Top stories

It's Back! 2025 American Humane Society's Hero Dog Award!

3 Fun Facts About Poodles

What To Look For In a Pet Camera

Top stories

It's Back! 2025 American Humane Society's Hero Dog Award!

Related articles