Jennifer Aniston Launches Fund to Help Animal Rescues

What Are the Benefits of Aromatherapy for Dogs?

Aromatherapy, the therapeutic use of essential oils derived from plants, is a growing trend - not just for humans but also for pets, especially dogs. Thanks to their exceptional sense of smell, dogs are particularly responsive to scents, making them good candidates for this practice. When used correctly, aromatherapy can offer several benefits for a dog’s emotional and physical well-being. However, it’s crucial to approach it with caution and the right knowledge.Understanding Aromatherapy and Its Benefits for DogsAromatherapy works by releasing scent molecules from essential oils. Once inhaled, these molecules travel to the brain, where they can help promote relaxation and support overall psychological well-being. Here are some potential benefits for your furry friend:1. Stress and Anxiety ReliefDogs are highly sensitive creatures and can become anxious due to loud noises, travel, separation, or changes in routine. Essential oils like lavender and chamomile are known for their calming properties and can help soothe a nervous or hyperactive dog.

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.

What Is the Best Dog Breed for Children?

If your kids have been begging for a dog and you’re finally ready for your family to grow by four paws, congratulations! It’s an exciting time. You are likely picturing happy afternoons together at the park, playful cuddles on the couch, and a pup who will grow with your family – especially with your child. But with so many dog breeds to choose from, finding the right fit can be overwhelming. You may have heard whispers of “the best dog breeds for kids.” Many online articles list Golden Retrievers, Labradors, and even some smaller breeds as the ideal family dog. While it’s true that these breeds are often friendly and playful, the truth is that the “best dog for kids” will depend on more than just the breed.In this guide, we will look at the most important factors and considerations when choosing your next family dog. Plus, we have collected some expert advice that may surprise you. Remember, the secret to finding the perfect dog for your family lies in research, careful consideration, and a commitment to doing right by both your children and your new pup. Debunking the Myth of the “Perfect” Family-Friendly Dog Breed While some breeds are better known for their family-friendly behavior traits, we must remember that every dog is an individual. Just like humans, dogs of the same breed may come with a wide range of personalities. Some may be more playful and tolerant of young children, while others may be more independent, nervous, or prone to anxiety. Furthermore, your dog’s personality isn’t solely based on their genetics. Much of a dog’s temperament is influenced by their upbringing. Proper socialization and training from a young age, regardless of the breed, can help your dog learn what behaviors you deem appropriate (especially around children). So, while some breeds are more likely to be a good fit in a family home, we must always remember that there is no guarantee! Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dog When deciding on your dog’s breed or the individual dog themselves, there are a few important factors to consider. This includes: Living Situation I firmly believe that a dog can thrive in just about any living situation given the right dedication from their humans, but choosing a dog that is well-suited for your situation will set you and your new dog up for success. Do you live in an apartment? A smaller, quieter (less barking), low-shedding dog breed may be a bitter fit than a larger, high-energy dog. If you have a house with a yard, you’ll have more space for an active pup to exercise and play. Other factors to consider include whether you have a fence (some dogs, like the Siberian Husky, are a bigger flight risk) and the amount of space within your home, especially if you’re considering a larger dog like a Great Dane. Family Lifestyle Does your family enjoy going for long hikes? Is there someone in your home who goes for a daily run and would love a dog interested in joining them? Or are you more of a couch potato bunch? Recognizing your family’s lifestyle will help you choose a dog breed that matches your vibe. A high-energy breed like the Border Collie is an excellent choice for an active household, but they may become bored or destructive if they aren’t getting enough exercise. On the other hand, a more relaxed and laid-back dog like the English Bulldog may struggle to keep up with the demands of a more active family. Your Child’s Age and Maturity LevelUp to this point, we have been talking about family-friendly dogs as if all children are created equally. But this clearly isn’t the case. The patience, understanding, and maturity of a 10-year-old child will be considerably different than that of a young toddler. Even within a specific age bracket, some children will be more mature and more willing to help with the dog than others. No one knows your child(ren) better than you. Take a moment to consider your child’s maturity level, personality, and specific needs in a dog. Commitment to Training and Socialization Training and socialization are essential for all breeds, but some dogs will likely need a little extra work to set them up for success in a home with kids. For example, a herding breed with natural herding instincts may be more tempted to wrangle your children. This may not seem problematic until you consider the fact that breeds like the Australian Cattle Dog herd livestock by nipping at their heels. When selecting a dog breed, consider how much time you’re willing and able to dedicate to their ongoing training and socialization. AllergiesIf anyone in your family suffers from allergies, including the extended family who often comes to visit, you may want to consider a hypoallergenic breed. The term is slightly misleading, as no dog breed is 100% allergy-free. However, dogs that are considered hypoallergenic generally shed less or produce less dander.

Mars Is Conducting a Global Study on the Human-Pet Bond

Mars, Incorporated recently released news about their Pets and Wellbeing Study (PAWS) research program, which will focus on studying the effects that pet dogs and cats have on people’s mental health. Keep reading to learn more about this study and what the researchers are hoping to find out.

HotelPlanner Goes Pet-Friendly with Acquisition of PetsWelcome.com

Are you on the search for a pet-friendly hotel for your next getaway? If so, you’re in luck! The popular hotel booking platform HotelPlanner has made an exciting move into the pet travel space with their recent acquisition of PetsWelcome.com. PetsWelcome.com was first founded in 1997 by Chris Kingsley and Fred Grayson. As passionate pet parents, the two were dedicated to creating a safe space where travelers could find out about hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, inns, and other accommodations that not only were highly rated but also happily welcomed our furry travel companions. “This acquisition allows us to better serve the millions of pet owners who consider their pets part of the family and want them by their side during travel,” explained Bruce Rosenberg, Global President at HotelPlanner. “Together, we will build on the strong foundation that PetsWelcome.com has created and further expand our offerings for pet-friendly travel.” Like other hotel sites, you can search the directory on PetsWelcome.com for accommodations in a specific city or state. Interested in international travel? While the directory is primarily US-focused, it also includes pet-friendly businesses in Canada, Mexico, the Bahamas, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. After searching your destination, you can narrow your options with pet-focused filters like pet type (cat or dog), pet weight limits, and pet fees. Going a step further in your planning, the website also lists other pet-friendly businesses, including: Restaurants & Cafes BarsDog Parks BeachesNational, State & Local Parks Wineries Pet Stores & RetailAre you looking for inspiration on where to go or when to travel? Why not consult their pet-friendly event directory to find out if there’s something interesting you would like to attend? The website is truly a “one-stop shop” for planning pet-friendly adventures. “PetsWelcome.com has set the standard for pet-friendly travel resources, and we’re excited to leverage their legacy in creating exceptional experiences for pet owners,” stated Joseph Blakeley, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at HotelPlanner. “This partnership reflects our shared vision of a world where pets are not just welcomed but celebrated in travel.” In the coming weeks and months, you can expect to see PetWelcome.com’s directory integrated into the HotelPlaner platform. The company assures travelers this will allow for a seamless booking experience for those planning a trip with their cat or dog and looking for the best pet-friendly hotel for their stay.This is just one of many exciting developments in the pet-friendly travel space. In November, Expedia Cruise of West Orlando and Cruise Tails announced their plans for the first pet-friendly cruise. They will welcome up to 250 dogs on their inaugural cruise. At the same time, ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft now offer pet rides, connecting pet parents with pet-friendly drivers. As a travel lover who enjoys nothing more than including my pets in my adventures, I’m excited to see where this shift in the travel industry will take us! Of course, it’s also going to depend on us… If you are traveling with your pet, do so responsibly. Always keep your pets under your control and clean up behind them. If businesses in the pet industry see responsible pet parents enjoying these opportunities, it will encourage them to continue expanding their offerings in the future. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

American Kennel Club Welcomes Danish-Swedish Farmdog to the Registry

Spot on the coveted AKC registry is claimed by pint-sized working dog.

Are We There Yet? Keeping Your Pup Happy in the Back Seat is Easy!

Relic the German Shepherd Named 2025 Rescue Dog of the Year

In a heartwarming tale highlighting the power of patience, training, and a loving foster home, a six-year-old German Shepherd named Relic has been named the Pedigree Foundation’s 2025 Rescue Dog of the Year. Relic’s journey from a stressed and nervous shelter dog to a beloved family member is a true happy ending. It’s a testament to the commitment of dedicated shelter workers like those at East Bay SPCA and the impact of a loving foster home. Relic’s story began at the East Bay SPCA in Oakland, California. When he arrived at the shelter, he was already showing signs of shelter stress – a bad omen for many in overcrowded shelters waiting for their forever home. But, the shelter staff saw potential in Relic, creating a plan of action that would set him up for success and keep him from being another statistic.  This plan included moving him into a private setting for specialized care and training while searching for the ideal foster home where he would thrive with personalized support. Finding the right foster home was easier than they anticipated. A couple who had recently lost their beloved cat of 15 years had contacted the shelter with the intention of fostering, opening their hearts and home to Relic and his ongoing care. “The house felt empty without him (the cat), but we weren’t quite ready to open our home to another pet,” the couple shared in a firsthand account of Relic’s story on the shelter’s website. “We thought fostering at the East Bay SPCA might be a nice way to have pets in the home without committing to it full-time and be able to provide a needed break from the shelter for a deserving pet.” They thought they were only taking Relic home for a week or two, but the Universe clearly had other plans… Despite having no prior experience with a reactive dog, the couple quickly learned, with the support of shelter staff and an in-house trainer, how to work through the challenges. Under their care, the once-nervous dog began to blossom, and a playful, affectionate personality emerged – a personality the couple quickly fell in love with. In fact, they fell so in love with the newest addition to their home that they couldn’t let him go, making the decision to adopt him. “Relic is a loyal, good natured dog who is well behaved around the house and a sweet cuddler when we let him up onto the bed with us,” the couple described. “He takes up a lot more space in the house than our cat did and it took some adjusting to, but we love having him around now and can’t imagine our home without him.” Today, Relic is living his best life in his forever home. He enjoys cuddling on the bed and playing with his favorite toys. The couple says he has befriended the neighbor’s dog, enjoying regular walks together. To celebrate Relic’s crowning achievement, the Pedigree Foundation has created a limited-edition plush toy in his likeness. It’s available for purchase at the Dogs Rule store, with a portion of the proceeds supporting their efforts to provide rescue grants and help dogs find loving homes through the organization's ongoing work.   Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

PawSwing: Hands Free Grooming Experience Your Cat Will Actually Love

As someone who lives with six cats, pet hair is a daily reality. Skipping even a day of vacuuming means finding tufts in every corner, and lint-rolling myself is practically a ritual before I leave the house. That’s why I was eager – but skeptical – to try the PawSwing: an automatic self-groomer that promises to handle pet hair without fuss. A grooming gadget that works, looks cute, and that cats actually enjoy using? Sign me up!How Does It Work?The concept is simple. PawSwing is an automatic self groomer for cats which provides a 360° combing experience – no electricity required. It is equipped with innovative bionic tongue brushes (which are essentially brushes with short soft bristles that mimic the hook shape of cat’s tongue surface) that are situated on the grooming disc, aka the entrance to a felt box. The disc can be adjusted to suit different body types, so both petite kitties and chonky cuties can get the best grooming experience. 

How Often Should I Feed My Cat?

Feeding your cat is one of the most basic responsibilities as a cat parent, but it’s more than just opening a can or pouring some kibble into a bowl. Your cat’s food is the fuel that powers them through their lives with you.Understanding their nutritional needs and establishing an effective feeding schedule is a key consideration for their overall health and well-being. This includes providing the right amount of food at the right time. But there isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution to mealtime. Instead, you’ll need to figure out how to meet your cat’s unique needs.In this article, I’m going to share the most important factors to consider when deciding how often and how much to feed your cat, signs your cat needs a change, and tips for establishing (and sticking to) a feeding schedule that suits both you and your cat.General Feeding Guidelines While there is no universal rule for feeding, there are guidelines that can serve as a starting point for deciding on the best plan for your cat. These are general guidelines based on the average healthy cat. However, they shouldn’t be taken as set in stone. The general guidelines, as set out by most experts (including VCA Animal Hospitals), are: Kittens 8 weeks – 6 months old: Feed approximately 5 meals/day to accommodate their tiny growing stomachsKittens 6 months old and adults: Can be fed larger meals and reduced to as few as 2 meals/day, no longer than 12 hours apartKittens should be transitioned to adult cat food at approximately 8-10 months old Of course, you will need to adjust your cat’s feeding routine based on several factors, ranging from their overall health to your lifestyle. If you’re unsure what the right approach is for your cat, I recommend speaking with your veterinarian or a pet nutritionist. Factors That Affect How Much to Feed Your Cat I have mentioned the many factors that can impact the right amount and frequency when feeding your cat. These factors cover many aspects of your cat’s life, including their health, age, lifestyle, and more. Here are the factors I consider when feeding my cats: Age There are stages in a cat’s life where they will naturally need a higher or lower calorie intake. Kittens, while growing, need the calories necessary to support their growing bodies. However, if you continue to feed that same amount as an adult cat, it can lead to weight gain and possibly obesity ( an ongoing problem in the US). At the same time, as a cat moves into their senior years, their body starts to slow down. At this stage, you need to adjust their nutrition to better suit their changing needs. Size/Breed Some cat breeds will naturally grow larger than others, requiring more calories to support their size. The best-known large cat breeds are the Maine Coon and the Norwegian Forest Cat. Of course, their size may be impacted if your cat is a mixed breed. I have a Maine Coon mix who is less than 7 lbs because she wasn’t blessed with the Maine Coon size.Weight You will need to adjust your cat’s meal depending on their current weight in relation to what is considered healthy. If your cat is overweight, you may need to cut back on how much or how often they are fed to support their weight loss. On the other hand (or paw) if your cat is underweight, you may need to strategically increase their calorie intake by feeding more each meal or feeding them more frequently. Activity Level Do you have a high-energy cat? Breeds like the Bengal are well-known for their playful and adventurous nature. Trying to fuel a higher-energy cat means that you will need to adjust their diet accordingly. However, if your cat is more laid-back and relaxed, feeding them more than necessary can cause them to gain weight. Health Conditions Anytime someone offers general guidelines for best feeding a pet or meeting their exercise needs, these guidelines are based on an average healthy pet. However, there are many health conditions that could impact your cat’s dietary needs. Conditions affecting how your cat absorbs nutrients from their diet may require a cat to eat more to meet their basic nutritional needs. Some health issues will also cause your cat to gain weight easier, meaning you need to restrict their diet. Or they may have specific needs related to exactly what you’re feeding or how much they can eat at any given time. When it comes to health-specific requirements, it’s best to speak with your cat’s veterinarian. They are familiar with your cat’s health history and can make recommendations that are best suited to keep them healthy and happy. Food Type Do you feed you cat wet food or dry food? Some foods are more calorie-dense than others, which can impact how often your cat needs to eat. Wet foods generally have a higher moisture content, making them less-calorie dense. A smaller portion of these foods can make your cat feel full. If your cat eats a diet primarily of kibble, they often need to eat smaller amounts to achieve the same level of calories and nutrition.  Your Schedule Your cat’s health and well-being should be the primary concern when deciding on their feeding schedule, but I would be lying if I said that your schedule doesn’t also play into your decision. For example, if you have a hectic work schedule, it may be harder to accommodate multiple smaller meals. There are tools that you can use to help overcome these challenges. Many cat parents use automatic feeders like the Cat Mate C300 Automatic Digital Pet Feeder to offer meals on time, even when they are stuck at the office.

Why Does My Cat Drop Her Toys into Her Water Bowl?

No surprise, instincts are in play.

CES 2025 Included Some Really Cool Pet Tech

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

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies triggered by environmental factors such as pollen, mold, and dust mites. These allergies, also known as atopic dermatitis, often flare up during specific times of the year, causing discomfort and irritation. Recognizing the symptoms early can help pet owners manage their dog’s condition and improve their quality of life.Common Symptoms of Seasonal AllergiesSeasonal allergies primarily affect a dog’s skin, but they can also impact the respiratory system and digestive tract. Here are some key symptoms to watch for:Excessive Itching and Scratching: One of the most noticeable signs of allergies is persistent itching. Dogs may scratch, bite, or lick themselves, especially around their paws, ears, belly, and armpits.Red, Inflamed Skin: Allergic reactions can lead to skin irritation, causing redness, rashes, or hot spots that may worsen if left untreated.Ear Infections: Dogs with seasonal allergies are prone to ear infections, which present as head shaking, ear scratching, and a foul odor coming from the ears.Watery Eyes and Nasal Discharge: Allergies can cause runny eyes and sneezing, similar to hay fever in humans.Paw Chewing and Licking: Many allergic dogs obsessively chew or lick their paws, leading to irritation and even secondary infections.Hair Loss: Constant scratching and licking can result in thinning fur or bald patches, particularly in areas where the dog frequently rubs or bites.Respiratory Issues: Although less common, some dogs may develop coughing, wheezing, or labored breathing due to airborne allergens.Digestive Upset: While food allergies are more commonly linked to gastrointestinal issues, some dogs with seasonal allergies may experience occasional vomiting or diarrhea.When to See a VeterinarianIf your dog exhibits any of these symptoms for more than a few days, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. Allergies can often be mistaken for other conditions like fungal infections, parasites, or bacterial dermatitis. A vet can help determine whether seasonal allergies are the cause and recommend appropriate treatments.Managing Seasonal Allergies in DogsWhile seasonal allergies cannot be cured, they can be managed effectively with the right approach:

How To Prevent Dog Boredom?

Just like humans, dogs need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Without enough activity, they can become bored, leading to destructive behaviors such as chewing, excessive barking, apathy, and even anxiety. Preventing boredom is essential for their well-being, and with a few simple strategies, you can keep your dog engaged and content.#1 Provide Sufficient ExerciseOne of the best ways to prevent boredom in dogs is to ensure they get enough exercise. Different breeds have varying exercise needs, but all dogs require daily walks or playtime. Taking your dog for a walk twice a day, playing fetch in the yard, or letting them run freely at a dog park can help burn off excess energy and keep them engaged. If you have a spacious yard, consider setting up an obstacle course to give your pet a fun and challenging way to stay active.#2 Engage Them with ToysToys are not just for fun — they also provide essential mental stimulation. Puzzle toys that require dogs to work for treats, such as treat-dispensing balls or interactive feeders, are excellent for keeping their minds active. Classic Kong toys filled with peanut butter or kibble can keep a dog entertained for hours, promoting problem-solving skills and preventing boredom.

What to Do If My Dog Eats Mistletoe?

The holiday season is a time for festive decorations, but for dog owners, it’s also a time for extra vigilance. Curious pups are often tempted to nibble on anything new and shiny, including mistletoe. While this iconic holiday plant is beautiful, it can be dangerous if ingested. Knowing what to do if your dog eats mistletoe is crucial for their safety and well-being.Why Is Mistletoe Dangerous?Mistletoe is a parasitic plant that contains toxic substances such as phoratoxins and lectins. Both European mistletoe (Viscum album) and American mistletoe (Phoradendron species) can be harmful to dogs, though the American variety is slightly less toxic. Every part of the plant — leaves, berries, and stems — is potentially dangerous. Ingesting mistletoe can lead to symptoms of poisoning, which may range from mild to severe depending on the amount consumed and your dog’s size, age, and breed.Symptoms of Mistletoe Poisoning in DogsIf your dog eats mistletoe, watch for the following symptoms:DroolingAbdominal pain (whimpering or restlessness)VomitingDiarrheaLethargyDifficulty breathingSlowed heart rateSeizures (in rare cases)The severity of these symptoms depends on how much mistletoe was ingested.What to Do If Your Dog Eats MistletoeStay Calm Panicking can make it harder to assess the situation and take appropriate action. Your dog may also pick up on your stress, which can worsen their agitation.Assess the Situation Try to determine how much mistletoe your dog consumed. Check for any remaining pieces of the plant to help estimate the amount ingested.Remove Any Remaining Mistletoe Safely dispose of any leftover mistletoe to prevent further accidents. Ensure it’s out of your dog’s reach.Contact a Veterinarian Call your vet or an animal poison control hotline, such as the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435. Be prepared to provide details such as:The type of mistletoe (European or American)The approximate amount ingestedYour dog’s weight and current symptomsFollow Veterinary Advice Your vet may recommend bringing your dog in for treatment or monitoring them at home. Follow their instructions carefully.Preventing Mistletoe IngestionThe best way to protect your dog is to keep mistletoe out of reach. Here are some tips:Use Artificial Mistletoe: Fake mistletoe looks just as festive but is much safer.

Environmental Enrichment for Hamsters

Like other pets, hamsters benefit from environmental enrichment that makes it possible for them to behave much like they would in the wild. Sure, you want an enclosure that will be large enough for them to move about comfortably, with areas for eating and sleeping, but you can do a lot more to keep your little hamster happy and stress-free. Here are a few easy ways to enrich your hamster’s environment and help them thrive.

Rescue Dog Goes Viral After Demanding Pets from Owner

There are few things as heartwarming online as a heartwarming pet video, and the internet has once again delivered. This time, it comes in the form of a viral video featuring a rescue dog named Cactus and his irresistible way of demanding cuddles from his dog dad. The short clip was posted by user @cactustherescue and has quickly earned nearly 80,000 likes on Instagram and over 81,000 likes on TikTok. It proves just how much a simple act of affection can resonate deeply with an audience of pet lovers. Since capturing the hearts of thousands of pet lovers, it caught the attention of online publications and news platforms, including Yahoo, AOL, DogTime, and more. With a look of determination on his face and the charm of his adorable puppy eyes, he approaches his dad, pawing gently at him as if asking for something. Eventually, after a little persuasion, he falls back into the cuddle position with his head against his dad’s, melting hearts around the world.

How Much Exercise Does a Labradoodle Need?

A delightful crossbreed of charming Labrador Retrievers and elegant Poodles, Labradoodles combine the best traits of both breeds: intelligence, a friendly nature, hypoallergenic coats, and a boundless love for fun. These qualities make Labradoodles beloved companions, but their high energy levels and playful demeanor mean they need plenty of exercise to thrive. Here’s what every would-be Labradoodle owner should know about meeting their furry friend’s activity needs before adopting one.How Much Exercise Does a Labradoodle Need?Labradoodles are active dogs that require daily physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. On average, adult Labradoodles benefit from 60 to 90 minutes of exercise per day, divided between activities that challenge both their bodies and minds.Physical Exercise: Activities like running, playing fetch, or agility courses are excellent ways to burn off their extra energy.Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing gadgets, and obedience training sessions help keep their sharp minds engaged.