The Best Toys to Keep Your Dog Entertained for Hours

Top 10 Toys To Keep Your Dog Mentally Sharp

Find yourself wondering how to keep that furry genius stimulated? Check out the top ten toys to keep your dog mentally sharp we’ve come across.

5 Fun Toys to Keep Your Cat Entertained Indoors

Cats are naturally curious, playful, and full of energy. Whether you’re raising a kitten or caring for an adult cat, the right toys and accessories can help keep your furry friend active, engaged, and happy when they’re indoors. From climbing towers to interactive puzzles, here are five fun toys to keep your cat entertained.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Clean-Up Hacks to Keep Your Dog's Best Face Forward

(photo credit: wedmoments.com / shutterstock.com)I have Schnoodles, and for those with bearded dogs, ‘nuff said, right?I mean those iconic little beards are adorable but they’re also a catch-all for errant bits of kibble, drying chunks of once-wet food, burrs, twigs… you get the picture.And while my furry threesome doesn’t always require a full body bath, those faces most definitely need a little extra care. And we’re talking daily extra care. From runny eyes that stain and crust to stinky ears, burred chins, the aforementioned beards and of course everyone’s favorite maintenance issue – teeth.Taking a few minutes each day to tackle the Big 5 – ears, face, beard, eyes and teeth – not only keeps your pet looking their best but allows you to spot any problem areas and stave off heavy matting and staining early on in the game. Now, we’re not talking about grooming or cutting your pet’s overgrowth of fur, just cleaning it up. And if you live with a Yorkie, Schnauzer, Poodle, Maltese, Bichon Frise, or any other breed with longer facial hair, read on.

Best Cat Products That’ll Keep Your Kitty Occupied For Hours

With so many fun products on the market designed to keep your cat happy and entertained, you can rest assured that your feline friend will never get bored, even when you aren’t home.

Dog Theft is On the Rise: Keep Your Best Friend Safe

In recent years, there has been a concerning trend spotted by many pet professionals. As the demand for pets increased throughout the pandemic, so did the number of reported dog theft cases. As the world returned to normal, the dog-napping rates continued to rise. Beloved dogs are being taken from homes, yards, vehicles, or even on walks. But why is dog theft so common, and what can you do to keep your dog safe? How Many Dogs Are Stolen in the United States? There is no reliable number that accounts for all dog thefts across the United States because dogs are viewed as property in the eyes of the law. Dog theft cases are included in the greater property theft count. But animal experts and non-profit organizations estimate the number to be around two million dogs stolen in the United States every year. Dog Breeds That Are Most at Risk While any dog is at risk of being stolen, there are some factors that could increase the risk for your pup. Purebred dogs are the most popular targets as they are in higher demand and can be sold for a more significant profit than mixed breeds. The same logic can be applied to a dog’s age, with puppies being the most valuable. Smaller dogs are often targeted as they are easier to steal unnoticed and are seen as more adoptable than larger dogs. The American Kennel Club identified six breeds as being the highest risk for theft, including: French Bulldog German Shepherd Labrador Retriever Siberian HuskyYorkshire TerrierShih Tzu

How to Stop Your Dog From Eating Too Fast

Watching your dog inhale their meals can be worrying. Eating too fast isn't just messy, it can also lead to digestive issues, choking, and even serious problems like bloat. The good news is there are plenty of ways to help your dog slow down and enjoy mealtime safely.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

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

Are Ice Melts Safe for Pets?

When winter hits with its ice and snow, you’ll be tempted to reach for an ice melt to keep your walkways safe, but did you know there are a lot of ice melts that are dangerous for pets? It’s important to be aware of the risks and what your options are, as there are products that are safer for furry companions. Keep reading to learn about ice melt toxicity in pets, and products you can consider using instead.

Adorable Holiday Gift Ideas for Your Cat

The holidays are a wonderful time to spoil your feline friend. Whether your cat loves to climb, scratch, lounge, or play, these top picks are sure to make the season extra special.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Cats and Bum Slapping. It's a Thing!

A surprising number of felines love the rough and tumble action of lower back scratching and swatting their behinds around.

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. 

Why Your Cat Loves to Chew Grass (And Is It Safe?)

If you’ve ever caught your cat nibbling on grass, you might have wondered what was going on. The good news is that this behavior is actually pretty common. Understanding why your cat enjoys chewing grass and knowing when it’s safe can help you make better choices for your pet’s health.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Do Pets Feel the Winter Blues Too? What Every Pet Parent Should Know

As winter rolls in, many people notice changes in their own mood and energy levels. Shorter days, colder weather, and less time outdoors can take a toll. But what about our pets? While animals don’t experience depression in the same way humans do, they can be affected by seasonal changes that influence their behavior, activity, and overall wellbeing.Understanding how winter can impact your pet is the first step toward keeping them happy and healthy through the colder months.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Cute Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Dog

The holiday season is the perfect time to spoil the furry friend who fills your home with joy all year long. Dogs may not understand the meaning of Christmas, but they definitely understand the excitement of new treats, cozy spots to curl up in, and fun things to explore. If you want to make your pup’s Christmas extra special, here are some adorable gift ideas to consider.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Kitten Food: Benefits and How to Choose

One of the most important things you need to do for your kitten is feed them a high-quality, nutritious, species-appropriate food. And feeding them kitten food will ensure it’s formulated specifically for them. Keep reading to learn about the benefits of kitten food, and to access some tips for choosing food that’s right for your tiny feline.

Minnesota Gets Its First Pet-Friendly College Campus

For many of us, the bond we share with our pets is truly special. They are our companions, confidants, therapists, playmates, emotional anchors, and daily entertainment. Studies have even shown that living with a pet benefits our physical and mental health.  However, for young adults heading off to college, that bond has historically been severed at the dormitory door. That is officially changing in Minnesota. Gustavus Adolphus College, a private liberal arts college in St. Peter, recently announced a landmark shift in their campus policy. Starting this fall, Gustavus will become the first pet-friendly campus in the state, launching a pilot program that allows students to bring their dogs and cats to live with them in a designated residence hall. This move comes on the heels of a growing understanding of the “human-animal bond” in our modern society. For students navigating the high-pressure environment of college life, having a beloved pet with them can lower cortisol levels, reduce feelings of loneliness, help open doors to new social interactions and relationships, and encourage a more consistent daily routine. The program is currently limited to students in their second year or beyond who are in good academic standing. To prevent potential challenges before they arise, the college has established specific criteria that reflect the high standards of responsible pet parenting and rules to ensure pets fit well into the college lifestyle. Size and Behavior: Dogs must weigh 40 pounds or less, be fully housebroken, and have no history of aggression. Health and Wellness: Both cats and dogs must be at least one year old, spayed or neutered, and current on all vaccinations. Stability: To ensure the pet is well-adjusted, the college requires proof that the animal has lived with the student or their family for at least six months prior to moving onto campus. Financial responsibilities include a $300 annual pet fee and a $200 refundable deposit. Additionally, students must identify an emergency caretaker within 350 miles of campus, ensuring the animal has a safety net if the student is ever unable to care for them. For parents of college-bound students, this policy change represents a significant shift in the way we integrate pets into our lives. Beyond emotional comfort, living with a pet teaches students a high level of responsibility. Managing a pet’s schedule alongside a demanding course load requires exceptional time management and a dedication to the health and happiness of another living being. By requiring veterinary records and health certifications, the college reinforces the importance of preventive care. This helps spark conversations and spread awareness about this important topic. Gustavus Adolphus plans to evaluate the program over the next three years to determine its long-term viability. As pet parents, we know that our animals aren’t just “extras” in our lives. They are family. Seeing higher education institutions recognize this value is a promising step toward a society that fully embraces the benefits of our furry companions in every stage of life. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here. 

Virtual Dog Therapy Opens New Doors for Mental Wellbeing

For those of us who share our homes and our lives with a dog, we already know the truth: just a few short minutes spent with our pet can melt away the day’s stress. It’s a special connection that defines the human-animal bond. Now, new scientific research is not only validating the power of this bond but also proving that the benefits it offers are so strong they can be shared through a screen. In a recent study conducted by UBC Okanagan (UBCO), researchers found that even a virtual session with a therapy dog can significantly reduce a person’s stress. It’s a discovery that has big implications for our mental health and well-being. The study, led by Dr. John-Tyler Binfet, Director of UBCO’s Building Academic Retention through K9s (B.A.R.K.) program, and Dr. Christine Tardif-Williams, builds on earlier work that examined the impact of dog-assisted mental health interventions. The goal was to find a way to make the benefits of spending time with a therapy dog more accessible to the public, especially after the increased isolation and demand for virtual medical appointments seen during the pandemic. The findings, published in Human-Animal Interactions, were really promising. Over 1000 participants (including both students and community members) watched a five-minute pre-recorded video featuring a therapy dog and a handler. The videos featured key aspects of the in-person therapy dog experience, including calm conversations and guided reflection. Each participant completed a short stress survey before and after the session.  After comparing the surveys, researchers determined that participants experienced a noticeable drop in their stress levels simply by watching the short clip. “The results suggest that virtual therapy dog interventions can also benefit the broader public, particularly those who face barriers to accessing in-person mental health support, such as access to outside of normal operating hours or from a remote location,” explained Binfet. With the growing interest in telehealth services and similar alternatives in our lives, both for us and for pet care, the availability of virtual therapy dog appointments could be a game-changer for many who need it. It’s also a clear validation for those of us who have been saying that sharing our lives with our pets has a positive overall impact on our health and well-being. If a pre-recorded five-minute video of a dog can effectively lower stress, imagine the impact of spending your life with the warm, breathing, loving presence of a pet right next to you. When we interact positively with an animal, whether through petting, playing, or even just looking at them, it directly impacts our brain chemistry. The interaction triggers a release of oxytocin, known as the “love hormone,” which makes us feel happy and connected. At the same time, it lowers the production of the stress hormone cortisol. Combined, this shift leaves us feeling happier, less stressed, and more content. Ultimately, this research is a reminder that the best therapy is often sitting right beside you, waiting for a belly rub. The discoveries in this study highlight an excellent opportunity for greater accessibility for everyone to benefit from the healing power of therapy dogs, even when an in-person appointment isn’t possible. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Is It Ever Too Cold to Take the Pooch Out?

(photo credit: G5SALES / shutterstock.com)We’ve all been there. The dog (in my case, dogs) needs to go out, but the weather isn’t cooperating. And whether it’s down to colder temperatures, freezing rain or heavy snow, your pooch has decided “no way, no how” is he going out in that. This, despite his full bladder encouraging otherwise.If snow or ice is particularly heavy, consider clearing a circular path through your backyard where they can move safely along, then retreat to the indoors if it becomes too blustery. No peril of salt, the snow depth is kept low, and you can encourage your pet to take short, frequent breaks throughout the day, versus just once or twice.Now, you and I both know that our dog’s outdoor time is non-negotiable. Pee pad options aside, dogs need the physical activity and mental stimulation that comes with getting outside on a regular basis. Even if it is just the backyard. But its important to our pets and to us as pet parents, that they also feel positive about heading out. And that’s where a little preparation and a few extra steps on your part can make a difference.Also crucial in planning winter outings is this; when temperatures fall below 45°F (7°C) it might be too cool for senior dogs, those with a thin coat or smaller breeds. Anything under 32°F (0°C) is now freezing and dogs with compromised health, seniors, or small dogs will struggle - keep walks short and be sure to bundle them up. Once the outdoor temperature lands below 20°F (-6°C) any dog can be at risk of hypothermia or frostbite. Keep walks extremely brief, with boots being used along with cozy, warm, well-fitted outerwear. But while my fur crew love the concept of going out and will dance around excitedly as they’re being leashed up for their walkies, the moment they step out into cold, windy, rainy, or slushy conditions, they instantly balk and want to head home. What we need are ways to extend the walk and make it more enjoyable for all involved – and that includes ensuring the fur-kid is warm, comfortable, and dressed for the elements.Sidewalk SafetyLeash-free parks are a great option that ticks so many of the boxes our pets need daily. Socialization, exercise, mental stimulation, as well as all those opportunities to mark and relieve himself as needed. The upside to this type of park is that during the winter, the grounds remain salt-free. Not so much your neighbourhood sidewalks, where ice and de-icers can damage pads and sting like heck when cracked paws come into contact with rock salt. In fact, I’ve had to carry one of my dogs back home when they stopped in their tracks, lifted their paw and refused to venture on. Yes, it hurts that much.