Loyal Pup's Warning Prevents Potential Disaster on Hike

Tips to Capturing Amazing Pics of Your Pooch

Pro pet photog shares his tricks to getting your dog to say cheese. And sometimes, it actually includes cheese.

Here's Why Your Cat Needs a Cozy Cat Cave!

(photo credit: Shelby Sears / shutterstock.com)For those of us who share space with a feline, we already know that the next best thing to a sprinkle of fresh catnip is a basic cardboard box. I mean, no sooner have I unpacked my Amazon delivery than one of my two cats has claimed the empty container as their own. And yes, I’m an enabler because that box will sit on my living room floor for a couple of weeks before I sigh, break it down and relegate it to the recycling bin. Truly, that one simple cardboard box seems to hold their interest longer than any fluffy, furry, feathered toy I could purchase.Now, there is a science behind this and it all boils down to their deeply rooted predatory instincts. You’ve undoubtedly noticed your pet watching, waiting, then sneaking up on a toy before pouncing and carting it around in its mouth like a hard-won trophy. That’s because a cat’s primary style of hunting is just that - to quietly lay in wait before going in for the kill. And what better way to do that, than tucked under the flaps of a decently sized cardboard box in the middle of a room?There’s more though, because your cat is also highly cognizant of being vulnerable to larger predators. While the inside of your home is clearly safe from coyotes, wolves, and other carnivores who might make quick work of your little Fifi, the instinct to be safely hidden, is strong - particularly given her propensity to sleep/snooze/nap for up to 16 hours a day. Hmm… maybe that’s where the expression “sleeping with one eye open” comes from.This all leads to why enclosed cat caves are such a great option for your feline. Not only do they allow her to observe the world going by while hidden (we can pretend), but they’re a cozy, warm space (important for cats), and she gets to choose who, what when, and where her next victim will be (that element of surprise our cats love).

Ready for Spring? The Right Poop Clean-Up Tools Can Help!

(photo credit: Dainis Zvingulis / shutterstock.com)T’is the season. Nope, not that one. We’re talking Spring and as the snow melts in many regions of North America, we discover something popping up that doesn’t look or smell like all those pretty little crocus and daffodils planted last year.Yes, the winter’s worth of dog poop your little buddy has been depositing in the far reaches of your yard has kept nicely due to frosty temperatures. But with warmer weather lurking just around the corner, it’s time to get out there and begin the cleanup. Because let’s face it, it’s much easier to do when said poop is partially frozen and easy to collect than when it melts into a smelly sludge.Now, if you’re thinking of just letting nature take care of those mini piles, think again. There are many reasons why you should get on top of this seasonal chore sooner rather than later. One is that beyond the cumulative smell, it can attract vermin to your backyard. Another is that some dogs (mine included) like to chow down on feces and in the Springtime, your back patio has just become his buffet. And finally, when you let your pooch out into the yard for his early morning piddle, he may start to track in more than just mud.But enough ick talk! If you live with a dog – particularly a larger dog or in a multi-pet household - you’ll want the type of tool that can make this malodorous chore as quick and painless as possible, right?

5 Fun Facts About Dogs That Might Surprise You

Dogs are often called "man's best friend," but there's more to these lovable companions than meets the eye. From their quirky biology to surprising behaviors, dogs are full of fascinating surprises. Whether you're a lifelong dog owner or simply a fan of furry facts, here are five unusual things you may not know about our four-legged friends.

Hiking With a Mini? These Dog Slings Keep It Fun.

(photo credit: kasarp studio / shutterstock.com)Rain, sun, snow, wind… regardless of the weather, getting out with the fur kids for a little fresh air and exercise is non-negotiable. And for anyone who has co-habited with one of the larger or high-energy breeds you’ll already know that they need a longer trek to work off excess energy and stay healthy and fit. That said, there are many other factors to consider that may require you to adapt your lifestyle to match that of your pooch.Let’s start at the beginning. If you’re unsure how much exercise is enough, take your cue from your pet’s size and breed requirements. For dogs with terrier DNA running through his veins, he’s always ready to run, leap, chase a ball and keep you on your toes as he gets in a good workout. Other, larger breeds may not be as quick on their feet so scheduling a good long walk into their daily routine is the way to go in order to help maintain both their physical and mental well-being.And there may be other signs you need to heed as you schedule exercise. As your little buddy ages, you’ll recognize him slowing down or losing enthusiasm when you pull out his lead. That indicates it’s time to shorten or adapt your walks accordingly. Similarly, if he’s working through an injury or ailment, respecting his exercise boundaries helps him heal and you earn his trust through patience.While these are just a few things to consider before heading out on a walk, there is one more. It’s your pet’s size. You see, those pint-sized pooches that weigh in around the 10-pound mark also need to get out. And yes, just like the big dogs, they want to strut, stretch, enjoy mental stimulation, and bark at other dogs when they hit the bricks with mom or dad. The dilemma, of course, is knowing how far is too far. I once completed a 5k run where a Chihuahua on a leash was in the lead. When we returned to our starting point, he was still in the lead. You know your pet, you know what they think they can do, and you also know when to call it a day. This leads to the challenge of including them on those longer hikes or more difficult treks you enjoy but that might be too much for little legs.The solution isn’t to compromise your outdoor activity but to adapt. And that’s where a pet sling features big.

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.

Patio-Worthy Picks to Keep Your Pooch Chill This Summer

Cat Reunited with Owner Two Months After LA Wildfires

The LA wildfires in California were devastating not only because so many people lost their homes, but also because many people lost their pets. But there have been a lot of beautiful rescue and reunion stories in the months since the fires happened, and the story of Aggie the cat is one of them.

Are The New Pet Dryer Boxes Right for Your Pet?

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

Super Bowl LIX Shares the Field with Puppy Bowl XXI

Everyone wins as rescue dogs showcase their unique abilities.

Is Your Dog Slowing Down? Wuffes’ Hip & Joint Chews Can Help!

Say goodbye to stiffness and hello to more walks, playtime, and cuddles.If your furry best friend is starting to struggle with stairs, take longer to get up from naps, or just isn’t as playful as they used to be, you’re not alone.Aging dogs often suffer from joint discomfort, making simple movements harder than they should be.The good news? Wuffes’ Advanced Hip & Joint Chews were designed to ease joint discomfort and improve mobility, so senior dogs can stay active and comfortable for longer.

When Stressed, People Prefer Pets Over Family and Friends

When you feel stressed, do you turn to your pets and seek comfort from them? Well, there’s nothing strange or odd about that. Mars and Calm teamed up to conduct a survey of 30,000 pet parents, and they found that more than half of them would rather spend time with their pets when they want to get away from their troubles. Keep reading to learn more about their findings.

Front-Load Dog Carriers Keep Him In On All the Action

(photo credit: Net Vector / shutterstock.com)It’s that awkward size. A dog that’s not quite big enough for the endurance of a long hike, but not so small that you can tuck him neatly into a pet sling and effortlessly tote him around on all those outdoor adventures. When your dog loves to get a front-row seat for all the action, when his spirit is willing but his little legs aren’t up to a marathon trek, a front-load dog carrier may just be the ticket. Alternatively, when your primary mode of transportation leans towards the two-wheel variety, and you want to include your pooch in all those fun outings, finding the right travel gear is essential.Designed for dogs weighing upwards of 12 pounds but typically less than 30, this type of carrier safely secures your pet so that you can comfortably transport him for short (or long) periods. And today’s new harnesses are strategically designed to prevent you from experiencing shoulder fatigue – meaning all parties remain comfortable.Not only is your pooch front facing to receive the smiles and accolades of the passing public, but for wilderness hikes, he gets to enjoy the flora and fauna from an entirely new vantage point – five feet off the ground. Now, for older pets or those with limited mobility, a front-load dog carrier is perfect for keeping them close, warm, comfortable and engaged in their surroundings. And as we all know, mental stimulation is critical for dogs of any size or age. Best of all, because these carriers are constructed for a quick load/unload process, your pet can easily resume his walk or take a comfort break as frequently as needed.

My Dog Broke A Nail, Now What?

Seeing your pup showing signs of pain is never easy, and the sight of blood can be particularly alarming. While a broken nail may not seem like a major source of alarm, that one small injury can introduce a lot of discomfort (and blood). But take a deep breath; you’re not alone in facing this common struggle.This blog post is designed to be an informative guide, walking you through the essential steps to take when your dog breaks a nail to relieve pain and prevent further complications. With the proper knowledge and a little care, most broken nail situations can be managed effectively, allowing your pup to get back on their paws in no time.First Aid for Dog Nail Injuries When you discover your dog has broken a nail, remain calm. Your dog may be in pain and feeling anxious. By staying calm and composed, you will help prevent further distress and avoid a possible accidental injury to you. Speak in a soothing voice and move slowly. If your dog is particularly sensitive to pain or tends to react defensively when hurt, you may wish to enlist the help of another person to gently restrain them. In situations where you’re concerned about being bitten, having a properly fitted muzzle on hand can ensure everyone stays safe while you administer first aid. Stop the BleedingBroken nails often bleed because they contain a blood vessel known as the quick. You'll likely see some blood if the break occurs above this point. The first step in managing this injury is to stop the bleeding quickly. When dealing with any type of bleeding, your first line of defense is to apply direct pressure. Use a clean cloth or a piece of gauze and firmly press it against the bleeding nail for several minutes, often longer than you may initially think. Resist the temptation to check frequently, as removing the pressure can disrupt the clotting process. For persistent bleeding, styptic powder or a styptic pencil is an effective solution. We ensure we always have at least one of the two in our pet-friendly first aid kit. Styptic powder contains ingredients that help constrict blood vessels and promote clotting. To use it, apply a small amount directly to the bleeding area of the nail. A styptic pencil works similarly; wet the tip slightly to activate it and gently press it against the bleeding directly. If you don’t have styptic powder or a pencil on hand, some common alternatives that dog parents will reach for are cornstarch and flour. They can help absorb blood and encourage clotting. The easiest way to use these is to put some into a small container and then place the broken nail in it, maintaining pressure to give the blood time to clot. Remember, patience is key during this step; the bleeding may take several minutes to stop. Assessing the Damage Look closely at the broken nail once the bleeding has stopped or significantly slowed. Is it a clean break near the tip? Is it a partial tear that’s still attached? Is the quick exposed, leaving a raw and sensitive area? Take note of any visible debris, such as dirt, splinters, or fragments of the nail itself. Your findings will help you decide on the best course of action to prevent further damage and whether you need to contact your vet. Initial Cleaning (If Possible and Safe)If your dog tolerates examining their paw and the bleeding is under control, you may be able to gently clean the area. Use lukewarm water to carefully rinse the paw and the broken nail. This can help to remove any loose dirt or debris that may be there. Avoid using any harsh antiseptics like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol at this stage, as they can be irritating to the exposed injury and potentially delay healing. The goal of this initial cleaning is simply to remove any obvious dirt that could contribute to further pain and discomfort. Your vet can do a more thorough cleaning if necessary. Understanding the Risks of Dog Nail Injuries While the immediate sight of blood from a broken nail can be alarming, the potential risks extend beyond this initial shock. Here are a few additional risks to be aware of: Pain and DiscomfortEven if you manage to stop the bleeding quickly, your dog can still experience significant pain and discomfort. The nail bed contains sensitive nerve endings, and a break, especially if it leaves the quick exposed, can create a very painful situation for your pup. Every time your dog puts pressure on the affected paw, they may feel a sharp or throbbing pain, leading to limping or a reluctance to walk or put weight on that leg. InfectionA break in the nail creates an open wound, providing an entry point for bacteria and fungal organisms that they may encounter in the environment. Simple things like walking on the ground, contact with dirt and debris, or even your dog’s own licking can introduce pathogens into the wound. Recognizing the signs of infection is crucial to addressing it as quickly as possible. Keep an eye out for the following red flags: Redness Swelling around the nail bedPus or discharge Increased pain or sensitivityWarmth to the touch Fever Lethargy Partially Broken Nails A partially broken nail poses its own set of risks to your pup. The jagged edge can easily catch on carpets, furniture, or outdoor surfaces, leading to further tearing of the nail and increased pain for your dog. Ongoing Irritation of the AreaThe irritation and discomfort can also trigger excessive licking or chewing at the affected paw. While your dog may be trying to soothe their pain, this behavior can make the problem worse by introducing more bacteria and potentially leading to self-inflicted wounds around the paw. Mobility Concerns In more severe cases, a broken nail can significantly impact your dog’s mobility. The pain and discomfort can make it difficult for them to engage in their usual activities, such as walking, running, and playing. This not only impacts their physical well-being but can also negatively impact their overall happiness and quality of life. Imagine being a high-energy dog who no longer has a safe outlet for all that energy.

Is Periodontal Disease in Dogs Reversible?

If you've ever gotten a whiff of your dog’s bad breath and thought, that can’t be normal, you're probably right. Bad breath isn’t just a quirky part of being a dog - it can be a sign of something more serious: periodontal disease.This common condition affects most dogs by the time they’re three years old, and if left untreated, it can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. But here’s the big question on most pet parents’ minds: is periodontal disease in dogs reversible?The short answer? It depends on the stage.The long answer? Let’s break it down.What Is Periodontal Disease, Exactly?Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that affects your dog’s gums, teeth, and the structures that support them. It usually starts with plaque - a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on the teeth after eating. If that plaque isn’t removed (through brushing or chewing), it hardens into tartar, and the real trouble begins.

Do Dogs Need Vitamin C?

Vitamin C is well known for its essential role in human health, contributing to immune function, collagen synthesis, and antioxidant protection. However, the nutritional needs of dogs differ significantly from ours - so do they need vitamin C in their diet, or do their bodies produce enough on their own? Can Dogs Synthesize Vitamin C?Unlike humans, dogs possess the enzyme L-gulonolactone oxidase in their livers, enabling them to synthesize vitamin C endogenously. Under normal, healthy conditions, this metabolic pathway is sufficient to meet a dog’s physiological needs without the necessity for additional dietary vitamin C.When Might Supplementation Be Considered?While healthy dogs typically do not require extra vitamin C, there are specific conditions where supplementation might be beneficial:

It's Muddy Paw Season! Are You Ready?

(photo credit: FoodFocus / shutterstock.com)One of the true rites of passage to being a dog owner is dealing with muddy paws. During the pandemic, I was glued to the myriad designer shows that were streaming on every network. And I think I may have drooled a little as I watched them stroll through those renovated homes that now featured mud rooms and something that’s I considered totally OTT - dog washing stations. I mean it’s really just a hand-held showerhead that you use to hose off muddy feet before they go racing through the house, across the carpets and onto the furniture. But what a concept – cleaning your dog’s paws before he enters the house.With three dogs and an amazing 19-acre leash-free park just a five-minute drive away, we enjoy having the room to roam during all four seasons. And because that includes those mushy snow thaws and spring showers, we’re talking mud. And lots of it. I’ve tried bringing damp towels to clean off dirty feet as well as those pre-moistened baby wipes that a fellow pet parent once suggested. Neither was enough to make a dent in the dirt.

Does Your Pet Have Runny Eyes? Let's Clean 'Em Up!

(photo credit: Irina Satersdova / shutterstock.com)My Schnoodles have a deep, darker fur and while it’s no excuse, it is one of the reasons that I tend to miss that crusty collection of goop that gathers at the inner corner of their eye and ultimately begins a descent toward the sides of their beaks.Now, this mucky discharge is a normal function of your pet’s immune system, and it’s how they rid their eyes of the daily dust and debris that can collect and irritate. But while it's not necessarily an issue to worry about, it can be unsightly (particularly with light-colored dogs or cats) and deserves to be addressed on a regular basis—in other words, cleaned up.If the discharge is smelly or excessive, you’ll want your vet to weigh in on whether your pet may have an eye infection or be suffering from allergies that require a little more care than a simple wipe-down.Assuming that’s not the case and its just a matter of working eye maintenance into your pet’s hygiene regimen, there’s a wide range of products that are superb at tackling the crust and also removing any staining. What I love most, is that there is something suited to every pet’s personal preference. Because let’s face it when it comes to cleaning up your little guy’s face, it’s never one size fits all, is it?