Pet Hair Everywhere? Try These 5 Simple Fixes

Found a Lost Dog? Here’s What to Do Next

Years ago, I was driving through a rural area on a fairly busy road when I spotted a dog out of the corner of my eye. It looked out of place and was standing dangerously close to traffic.I turned my car around, found a safe place to park, and went to check on it. Thankfully, this story has a happy ending, which I’ll share later.But first, if you’ve ever wondered what to do with a lost dog, there are a few important steps that can help keep the animal safe and increase the chances of reuniting it with its owner.With a careful approach, a few simple checks, and help from the right local resources, you may be able to help a lost dog find its way back home.

Why Impulse Control Is the Secret to a Happier and More Confident Dog

Impulse control is often the differentiating factor between a stressful outing and a seamless, enjoyable one. While the term is frequently used by dog trainers, it’s a concept many dog parents are unfamiliar with. So, let’s talk about it!Understanding this concept is about much more than just demanding your dog “stay” on command. It is about helping them to develop the ability to pause, think, and choose a calm response over a reactive one. Whether it’s waiting at an open door, ignoring a dropped piece of food, or remaining settled as a cyclist flies by. Impulse control is a skill that directly impacts your dog’s safety and their ability to navigate the world with confidence. This isn’t about suppressing their personality, but about giving them the tools to manage their big emotions in a variety of environments. In this article, I’m going to share the foundational steps needed for your dog to start learning self-regulation and impulse control today!Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article, but at no cost to you.What Exactly is Impulse Control?At its core, impulse control is the ability to resist temptation in favor of a better outcome later. While humans might practice this by skipping a sugary snack to reach a fitness goal or pass on going out with friends to study for a big test to achieve a desired grade, for a dog, it is the mental effort required to not chase a squirrel, not jump on a guest, or not bolt through an open door.In the dog world, impulse control is about learning how to let their rational mind keep their first instincts in check. Understanding that this is a sophisticated cognitive process, rather than just a matter of being a “good dog” or not, helps us approach training with more understanding, empathy, and patience.It is helpful to view self-regulation as a muscle. Just like a physical muscle, it can be strengthened through consistent practice and exercise. However, as with working a muscle, your dog can also become tired and worn out.When working on improving your dog’s impulse control, we need to be mindful of both timing and intensity to set realistic expectations. If your dog has spent an hour resisting the urge to sniff every item at the hardware store during your visit, their “impulse control tank” might be empty by the time you get home. You wouldn’t expect a beginner to lift a heavy weight on day one. Similarly, we cannot expect a dog to resist a high-value distraction without first practicing on smaller ones.The Difference Between Obedience and Self-RegulationMany dog parents confuse a dog who follows a command with a dog who has good impulse control. While obedience is certainly important and should be part of the puzzle when raising a happy, healthy dog, the underlying motivations of the two are distinctly different.Obedience: This is a “bottom-up” response where the dog waits for a specific cue from you, like “stay,” before acting. The responsibility for the behavior lies with the handler.Self-Regulation: This is a default behavior where the dog assesses the situation and chooses the calm option without being told. For example, a dog with strong impulse control sees their food bowl being lowered and automatically sits and waits because they have learned that’s the right way to respond without having to be told each meal.Why Impulse Control is So Important for Your Dog’s Quality of LifeDeveloping these skills is about much more than just good manners; it is necessary for your dog’s safety and emotional well-being. When a dog learns to control their impulses, their world actually becomes much larger.Safety and Risk MitigationThe most obvious benefit is your dog’s safety. A dog that lacks the impulse control to wait at the threshold of your door is at a higher risk of dashing into a busy street. By teaching your dog that pausing at the door should be the default behavior, you create a built-in safety buffer for higher-risk situations, like getting out of a crate, exiting a vehicle, or crossing a street.Reducing Environmental StressDogs that react impulsively to every trigger they encounter, like a passing cyclist, a barking dog, or a dropped leash, live in a constant state of high arousal. Constantly being on edge is hard on their nervous system. Teaching impulse control helps lower their baseline stress levels, allowing them to process their environment more calmly rather than feeling the need to react to every change around them.Expanding Their Social WorldThe reality of our modern society is that well-behaved dogs get invited to more places, and for good reason. A dog who can settle under a table at a café or walk calmly through a crowded market is a dog that gets to spend more time out and about with their family, because they can do so while respecting everyone else around them. By prioritizing these skills, you are allowing them to participate in a wider variety of experiences and adventures by your side.The Warning Signs of Low Impulse ControlBefore we start talking about improving your dog’s self-regulation, let's start at the beginning. We must be able to recognize when they are struggling. Low impulse control often manifests as over-arousal, in which the dog’s physical reactions move faster than their ability to think. By identifying these signs early, you can intervene before a behavior becomes a deeply ingrained habit. Common warning signs of low impulse control include:The Frustrated Greeter: This is a dog who may be friendly but expresses their excitement about meeting others by whining, barking, or lunging on the leash. They lack the control to remain calm when they cannot immediately get to what they want.Mouthiness and Nipping: When a dog becomes excited, perhaps during play or when you reach for their leash, they may revert to the puppy-like approach of using their mouth on your hands or clothing. This is a sign that their excitement and arousal in that moment are outweighing their impulse control.The Threshold Bolt: If your dog pushes past your legs the moment a door cracks open, or leaps from the car before you’ve given a release cue, they are operating on pure impulse rather than waiting for direction.Inability to Settle: Some dogs struggle to find an “off-switch” even after their physical exercise needs have been met. They may pace, demand attention, or react to every small sound in the house because they haven’t learned how to choose stillness. The Role of Body LanguageUnderstanding the physical cues of a dog nearing their limit is one of the most important skills you will develop as a dog parent. A dog with low impulse control often shows signs of tension, both physical and mental. You may notice a stiff posture, dilated pupils, or a tail that is wagging quickly, but in a very tense, narrow way. These are all signals that your dog is reaching their limit of what they can handle, and their ability to make a calm choice is diminishing.

Why Do Dog Anal Glands Get Impacted? (And How Supplements Can Help)

Dealing with dog anal gland issues can be one of the most frustrating and uncomfortable parts of being a pet parent. Often, you find yourself caught in a reactive cycle of frequent, stressful trips to the vet for manual expressions. But did you know that this nuisance doesn’t necessarily have to be managed as it happens? In fact, your dog’s anal glands are directly connected with their underlying digestive health. When these small, fluid-filled sacs fail to empty naturally, it’s usually a sign that their body lacks the physical triggers (specifically, consistent stool firmness and good gut health) it needs to complete the process on its own.By shifting our focus from temporary fixes to a proactive wellness strategy, we can address the root cause of the issue. By understanding your dog’s anatomy and introducing targeted, high-quality supplements, you can naturally support their digestive system and help them live long, happy, and comfortable lives. Let’s talk about it… Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article, but at no cost to you.Understanding Your Dog’s Anal GlandsBefore learning how to prevent discomfort, it helps to learn about the simple mechanics of how your dog’s body is designed to function. Dogs have two small, grape-shaped sacs called anal glands (or anal sacs) located just inside the rectum. If you imagine a clock face over your dog’s rear, these glands sit at approximately the 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock positions, hidden underneath the skin. These glands serve an important role in canine communication. They produce a distinct, strong-smelling fluid unique to each dog, serving as a chemical calling card. In the wild, this fluid is used to mark a dog’s territory and share information with other animals about a dog’s identity, health, and stress levels. This is exactly why dogs greet one another by sniffing each other's hind ends. Under normal circumstances, your dog’s body is designed to empty these sacs automatically. Every time they have a normal, healthy bowel movement, the stool passes through the rectum and naturally presses against the walls of these sacs, causing them to release a small amount of the fluid. Why Anal Glands Become Impacted When everything is working smoothly, the natural elimination cycle takes care of itself. However, when that trigger fails, the system breaks down. If the anal sacs are not regularly emptied by firm stool, the fluid inside them stays trapped. Over time, the body absorbs the liquid portion of the fluid, causing the remaining materials to thicken, dry out, and become pasty. Once the fluid thickens into a paste, it can no longer pass through the tiny, narrow ducts it usually uses to leave the body. This state is known as impaction. If left unaddressed, the trapped material can become infected, leading to painful swelling, abscesses, and potentially a painful rupture through the skin. Anal gland issues are rarely an isolated problem with the glands themselves; instead, they are almost always a symptom of an underlying issue. Soft Stools and Chronic Diarrhea: These are the most common causes of impaction. Soft, loose, or watery stools lack the physical bulk and firmness needed to push against the sacks. Without that pressure, the glands are never triggered to empty. Inflammation and Allergies: Food sensitivities (such as reactions to specific proteins or grains) and environmental allergies can cause widespread inflammation. This inflammation often targets the lining of the digestive tract and the sensitive skin around the rear, causing the tiny exit ducts of the anal glands to swell shut. Even if the stool is firm, the fluid cannot escape a swollen duct. Anatomical Variations and Weight: Some dogs are genetically predisposed to narrower ducts or glands that sit slightly deeper inside the rectum. This makes the natural process more difficult. Additionally, carrying excess weight can create issues, such as extra fat tissue in the pelvic region that cushions the glands and prevents the stool from making effective contact with them. Poor Muscle Tone: Dogs that lack proper muscle tone in their hindquarters (often due to age, lack of exercise, or structural imbalances) may not be able to generate enough force to empty the sacs during elimination.Signs of Trouble: Spotting the Early Warning Signs Because dogs instinctively hide pain and discomfort, anal gland issues often go unnoticed until they become highly painful. However, if you know what to look for, your dog will give you several clear signs that their system needs a little added support. Catching these early warnings allows you to make adjustments before a minor buildup turns into a severe infection. While some signs are obvious, others can easily be mistaken for standard grooming or behavioral quirks. Pay close attention if your dog begins displaying any of the following signs of trouble: Scooting: The most classic and recognizable sign. A dog will drop their hind end to the floor and drag themselves forward using their front paws. This is an attempt to apply pressure to the area to relieve the itchiness and discomfort caused by full or impacted glands. Excessive Licking or Chewing: Unable to reach the source of their discomfort, they will often obsessively lick, bite, or chew at the root of their tail, their lower back, or even their hind paws. A Sudden, Distinct Odor: Healthy anal gland fluid is occasionally released during a bowel movement, but it shouldn’t linger. If you notice a sudden, pungent, metallic, or fishy odor while your dog is resting, it is a strong indication that the glands are overly full or leaking under pressure. Straining or Restlessness: Watch your dog during bathroom trips. Straining, pacing, or turning around suddenly to look at or bite at their rear end immediately after passing stool is a sign of localized discomfort. They may also appear restless, pacing around the house or hesitating before fully sitting down.  When it Becomes a Veterinary EmergencyThere is a distinct line between a mild impaction that can be resolved with adjustments to your dog’s diet and a serious medical issue that requires immediate vet intervention. Watch for the danger zone. If the trapped fluid becomes infected, it will form a painful abscess. The skin near the anal sacs will look swollen, red, or purple. If left untreated, this abscess will eventually rupture, leaking blood and pus through the skin. If you notice swelling, discoloration, visible blood, or if your dog yelps in pain when their rear is touched, skip the home remedies for now and head straight to your veterinarian. Once the immediate concern is addressed, you can then start working on a plan to ensure that it never happens again.

Is an Axolotl Right for You? What New Owners Often Overlook

If you’ve spent any time on social media lately, you’ve likely seen that adorable wide-mouthed grin and those feathery pink gills that make the axolotl look like something straight out of a fantasy movie. It’s easy to see why so many animal lovers fall instantly in love. However, if you are going to bring one of these unique creatures into your life, there’s more to consider than just its interesting appearance.The reality of owning an axolotl is a bit more complex than simply setting up a standard fish tank and hoping for the best. They have very specific biological needs, from strictly controlled water temperatures to delicate skin that requires a gentle environment. It can be overwhelming for even experienced pet parents!Before you head to a breeder or your local specialty pet shop, it’s important to look past the viral appeal and understand the commitment you are about to make. This guide will help you understand the most important aspects of axolotl care, so you can decide whether your lifestyle and home are the right fit for this new aquatic family member.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article, but at no cost to you.Understanding the AxolotlBefore we can provide the ideal environment for an axolotl, we have to understand exactly what they are. Unlike the goldfish or bettas many of us grew up with, the axolotl is a species of salamander. However, they possess a rare trait known as neoteny. While most amphibians evolve to leave the water and breathe air as adults, axolotls keep the features that allow them to live in the water their entire lives, like those iconic feathery external gills. Their biology stems from the place their ancestors called home: the ancient lakes of Xochimilco near Mexico City. These are not tropical waters. Located at high altitudes, the water stays cool and dark. When we bring an axolotl home, we aren’t just keeping a pet; we're recreating a very specific ecosystem. Some important details you need to know: Lifespan: With proper care, these animals are a long-term commitment, often living 10 to 15 years. Size: An adult can reach lengths of 23 to 30 cm, meaning they require significantly more space than a standard desktop aquarium. Permeable Skin: Like all amphibians, they breathe through their skin and gills. Their skin is incredibly delicate and lacks the protective scales of a fish, making them hypersensitive to water pollutants and physical handling. Setting Up the Ideal Axolotl Environment Successfully keeping an axolotl comes down to three non-negotiable factors: water chemistry, temperature control, and habitat safety. If any of these pillars crumble, your pet’s health will rapidly decline. Water Quality and the Nitrogen Cycle For an axolotl, the water is their atmosphere. Because they produce a lot of waste, the water can become toxic very quickly without a proper biological filter in place. To get this set up properly, you will need to cycle your tank (a process that can take 4 to 8 weeks) before you ever bring your pet home. Ammonia and Nitrates: These must always be at 0 ppm. Even trace amounts can cause chemical burns on their skin and gills. Nitrates: Keep them below 20 ppm with regular weekly water changes. Testing: A liquid master test kit is an essential tool for every axolotl parent. Paper strips are often too inaccurate for their sensitive needs. The Challenge of Temperature This is often the biggest challenge for those who are new to these little creatures. Axolotls are cold-water animals. If their water gets too warm, their metabolism spikes, their immune system suppresses, and they become prone to fungal infections. You must maintain a consistent temperature between 15 °C and 18 °C. Temperatures consistently above 20 °C are stressful, and anything above 24 °C can be fatal. Depending on your climate, you may need aquarium cooling fans or a dedicated refrigerated chiller, which can be a significant financial investment. Substrate and SafetyAxolotls are “vacuum feeders.” They open their mouths wide and suck in whatever is in front of them. In a tank with traditional aquarium gravel or small pebbles, whey will inevitably swallow the stones, leading to a life-threatening intestinal blockage known as impaction. Very fine aquarium sand (which can pass through the digestive tract) or a bare-bottom tank are the only recommended choices. Additionally, axolotls do not have eyelids. Bright aquarium lights are stressful for them, so low-light plants (like Java Fern) and plenty of physical caves or hides are necessary to keep them comfortable. Daily and Weekly Care RoutinesOwning an axolotl is often compared to keeping a very delicate, high-maintenance aquatic garden. Because they don’t engage in interactive play like a dog or cat, the joy of being an axolotl parent comes from the challenge of mastering their environment and daily care. Their care is less about training and more about maintaining a stable, silent ecosystem where they can thrive. The Axolotl Diet In the wild, axolotls are opportunistic carnivores. In a home setting, their diet should focus on high-quality proteins that support their natural healing abilities and maintain their energy levels. To create a balanced diet, you should consider the following factors:The Staple (Nightcrawlers): Earthworms or nightcrawlers are the gold standard. They provide the full spectrum of vitamins and minerals an axolotl needs. For younger or smaller axolotls, these can be cut into manageable pieces. Sinking Pellets: High-protein, soft-moist pellets designed specifically for axolotls are an excellent supplement and can help ensure they are getting a properly balanced diet. The Treat Category: Bloodworms and brine shrimp are popular but should be treated like a dessert. They are high in fat and lack the calcium and protein density required for their main diet. Feeding Frequency: Adult axolotls typically only need to eat two to three times per week. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and poor water quality, as uneaten food quickly decays in their tank, releasing toxic ammonia. The Maintenance ScheduleUnlike some pets, you can’t use a “set it and forget it” approach with an axolotl. Their high waste production means you are constantly balancing the chemistry of their environment to keep your new family member safe and healthy. You should conduct daily spot checks of the aquarium and use a turkey baster to remove any solid waste or uneaten food. This simple two-minute task helps to prevent ammonia spikes in the water and keeps the tank looking pristine. Depending on your tank size and filtration, a 20% to 30% weekly water change is standard to remove nitrates that the filter can’t process. Never scrub your filter media with tap water. The chlorine in tap water will kill the beneficial bacteria that keep your axolotl alive. Always rinse sponges in a bucket of old tank water.

Why Your Dog Can't Sleep Through The Night Lately

If your dog’s suddenly struggling to sleep through the night, it doesn't necessarily mean they’re acting out.Just like us, dogs can have nights where rest doesn’t come easy. Understanding why can help you and your furry friend get back to peaceful nights.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Do THIS to Keep your Outdoor Cat Safe

Letting your cat explore the outdoors is exciting for them, but sometimes stressful for you. However, a few simple precautions can make a big difference in keeping your feline friend safe and healthy while they roam the outdoors.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Dog Park Dedicated to Disabled Pooches Is First of Its Kind

Offering a safe space for differently abled pooches to romp and play, this seven-acre spread in the UK is nirvana for dogs and their humans.

What Are The Risks Of Posting Your Pets On Social Media?

It’s easy to see why people love sharing pet photos online, but even a simple post can come with risks you might not expect.Before you hit “share,” it’s worth thinking about what you’re putting out there and how it could affect you and your pet. Let’s get into it.

How to Introduce a Cleanse to Your Dog's Health Regimen

Keep an Eye on Your Cat’s Health with the Luma Smart Litter Box

Track bathroom habits and catch potential health issues early.It’s sometimes easy to miss the signs when a cat isn’t feeling well, as many cats instinctively hide their discomfort. The Petlibro Luma Smart Litter Box offers a practical solution. It monitors your cat’s bathroom habits and provides insights that help you pick up on any changes before they become more serious. 

How to Encourage Your Cat to Drink More Water

Many cats don’t drink as much water as they should, yet proper hydration plays an important role in supporting kidney function, urinary health, and digestion. Fortunately, there are several practical ways to help your cat drink more water.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

New Research Sheds More Light on Kidney Disease in Cats

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common in pet cats, and recent research from the University of Nottingham has uncovered something unique about cats—something that might help explain why cats are prone to this condition. With a better understanding of the early signs and causes of this disease, experts might be able to improve diagnostics and treatment options.

Tips and Products for Keeping Your Pet’s Things Organized

You need a variety of supplies to help keep your pets happy and healthy, but finding a place for everything can become a challenge. Whether you’re hoping to declutter or want more stylish options to keep your pet’s things within reach yet out of the way, here are some tips and product recommendations to consider.

What Every Cat Parent Should Know About Feline Immunodeficiency Virus

That sinking feeling when a vet returns with an FIV-positive result is something no cat parent wants to experience. Your mind immediately starts racing with “what-ifs” and worst-case scenarios. For a long time, the conversation surrounding Feline Immunodeficiency Virus was fueled by fear and misinformation, leading many to believe that a positive test meant a short, difficult life for your cat. But here is the reality: FIV is not the catastrophe it was once made out to be. While an FIV diagnosis does mean your cat’s immune system needs a little extra support and care, it’s a manageable condition. Giving your cat the best possible quality of life will start with a shift in strategy. You’ll need to be a little more proactive, a little more intentional, and a lot more informed. So, let’s break down what you, as a cat parent, need to know about FIV. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article, but at no cost to you.What Exactly IS Feline Immunodeficiency Virus? To provide the best care for an FIV+ cat, it helps to look behind the scary name and understand what is actually happening inside their body. At its core, FIV is a lentivirus, a type of slow-acting virus that is characterized by a longer period between the initial infection and the start of any serious symptoms. It is this extended timeline that allows us to still give our cats a happy and joyful life despite a positive diagnosis. Unlike many feline illnesses that attack specific organs, FIV targets the immune system itself. It seeks out T lymphocytes, the white blood cells responsible for identifying and fighting infections. The virus slowly replicates within these cells, damaging and destroying them, causing their white blood cell numbers to drop. It isn’t typically the FIV itself that makes your cat feel ill. Instead, it’s the virus lowering the body’s protective shields by interfering with their immune system, making your cat more susceptible to common bacteria, fungi, and other viruses that a healthy immune system would easily shrug off. The Three Stages of FIV in CatsUnderstanding how far your cat’s FIV has progressed can help you manage your expectations, your vet visits, and the best options for supportive care at home. There are three stages to the disease: The Acute Phase: This stage occurs approximately 1-3 months after your cat is exposed to the virus. It may involve a mild fever, lethargy, or swollen lymph nodes, but the signs are often so subtle that many cat parents miss them entirely. The Asymptomatic (Latent) Phase: This is the longest stage, often lasting for many years. During this time, your cat looks and acts completely normal. The virus is present, but it’s dormant, and with proper care and immune system support, many cats will stay in this phase of the disease for their entire lives. The Progressive Phase: If the immune system eventually becomes significantly compromised, your cat will enter the symptomatic stage. This is when chronic infections become more common and harder to treat, particularly in the mouth, skin, or respiratory tract. By focusing on keeping your cat in that middle latent phase for as long as possible, you can ensure your cat has a regular day-to-day life that is completely indistinguishable from that of a cat who isn’t carrying FIV. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) vs. Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)It is a common mistake to lump FIV and FeLV together. While both are retroviruses that impact your cat’s immune system, they are far from the same diagnosis! The most significant differences lie in how they are passed from cat to cat and in their long-term prognosis. FeLV is often nicknamed the “friendly cat disease” because it can be spread through casual contact, like grooming or sharing water bowls. It tends to be more aggressive, often leading to a shorter life expectancy. In contrast, FIV is much harder to transmit and acts far more slowly within your cat’s body. Because it primarily requires a deep bite wound for the disease to be passed, an FIV+ cat can often live safely alongside other cats who don’t have the disease as long as they are in a stable, non-aggressive home. An FIV diagnosis carries a much more optimistic outlook, with many cats living full, happy lives without ever developing severe complications. How to Keep Your Cat Safe While managing an FIV+ cat is entirely doable, the best approach is obviously to prevent the disease from spreading to your cat in the first place. Protecting your cat (and the community as a whole) comes down to understanding the behaviors that can lead to exposure and taking steps to mitigate them, lowering the risk. Regular Screenings Consistent vet checkups are the cornerstone of prevention, even for cats who appear perfectly healthy. Because FIV can be asymptomatic for years, routine blood work and wellness exams are key. These visits allow your vet to catch subtle shifts in white blood cell counts or early signs of dental inflammation long before they become visible problems. For those who rescue or foster, a regular testing schedule will ensure that every cat’s status is known, allowing you to make informed decisions about household dynamics and long-term management strategies before problems start. The Power of an Indoor Lifestyle The most effective way to prevent FIV is to eliminate the opportunity for there to be conflicts over territory. Cats are very territorial creatures. If your cat lives indoors, they aren’t crossing paths with unknown or potentially infected outdoor cats. If your cat craves outdoor time, consider controlled environments like a catio or leash-training with a harness. Our cat, Theia, will lead me to the hook where her harness is kept to let me know when she wants to go out chasing bugs (her favorite activity). These options let them enjoy the fresh air and sunshine without the risks of a neighborhood turf war.

Bobcat Fever, Caused by Ticks, Is a Threat to Pet Cats

Ticks can transmit multiple diseases to people and animals, and you might already be familiar with threats like Lyme disease, Alpha-gal syndrome, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. But there’s another disease that you should be aware of if you have pet cats: bobcat fever.

What to Consider Before Moving State With a Pet

Moving to a new state is exciting, but it can be stressful for your furry friend.Pets thrive on routine, so a move requires extra planning to make the transition as smooth as possible.Here are some key things to consider before hitting the road.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

3 Essential Tips for Welcoming a Senior Dog Into Your Home

Bringing a senior dog into your life can be one of the most rewarding experiences for both you and your new companion. Older dogs often come with a calm, loving presence and a lifetime of personality.However, adopting a senior dog also comes with unique considerations. Here are three important tips to keep in mind.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

The Internet Is Obsessed With This Devoted Cat and His Grandpa

In the world of pet parenting, we often measure our success by the quality of life we provide for our furry friends. We invest in high-quality nutrition, regular vet care, and the latest pet care gadgets. However, a recent viral video serves as a reminder that the most powerful indicator of a pet’s well-being is the depth of the emotional bond they share with us, their humans. The TikTok video, shared by user @shelby.donovan, quickly captured the internet’s attention, having collected nearly 200K likes and over 1300 comments at the time of writing this. It features a gray-and-white cat perched firmly and comfortably on his favorite person’s shoulders: his grandpa. And he’s not just sitting; he is actively rubbing his head and body against the man in a display of love and devotion. While the caption jokingly suggests finding someone who loves you as much as this cat loves his grandpa, the behavior actually offers a fascinating look into how our cats show that they love us. Seeing a cat engage in “shoulder riding” and “ allorubbing” (the technical term for cats rubbing against humans or other cats) fills our hearts with joy. This is a sign of secure attachment.