The Pros and Cons of Catios for Feline Companions

Cairn Terriers Are Just So WICKED!

Resurgence of everything "Oz" has us remembering a four-legged heroine who stole our hearts.

Your Relationship With Your Dog is Suprisingly Important to Him

Research shows that a strong, loving relationship with our pets is more important to them than what type of person you are.

When Is a Dog Considered a Senior?

We can’t escape time. As the years pass, we inevitably grow older, and the same is true for our dogs. They bring joy and companionship to our lives, but they can’t stay young and energetic forever. As they age, their needs change, requiring special care and attention. But when exactly is a dog considered a senior? The answer depends on several factors, including breed, size, and overall health.How Breed and Size Affect AgingOne of the biggest factors influencing a dog's aging process is its breed and size. Generally, smaller dog breeds tend to live longer than larger breeds, which means they reach their senior years at different stages.Small Breeds (Under 20 lbs): Dogs like Dachshunds, Toy Poodles, and Chihuahuas often live between 12 and 16 years or more. They are typically considered seniors around 10 to 12 years old.Medium Breeds (20-50 lbs): Breeds such as Cocker Spaniels, Border Collies, and Beagles usually have lifespans of 10 to 14 years. They are considered seniors between 7 and 10 years old.Large Breeds (50-100 lbs): Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds typically live between 8 and 12 years. They reach senior status around 6 to 8 years old.Giant Breeds (Over 100 lbs): Dogs like Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Mastiffs have shorter lifespans, averaging 6 to 10 years. They are usually considered seniors by the time they are 5 to 6 years old.While these general guidelines help estimate when a dog enters its senior years, it’s important to remember that genetics, lifestyle, and overall health also play a significant role in the aging process.Signs That Your Dog Is AgingAlthough age is a useful indicator, physical and behavioral changes can also signal that a dog is entering its golden years. For example, reduced energy levels are the usual sign, as older dogs might not be playful as they once were. Also, just like humans, dogs can develop gray hair, especially around the muzzle. With age, arthritis and joint problems become more common as well, just like cataracts, vision impairment, and hearing loss. As your pooch ages, you can also notice changes in their appetite or weight. As their metabolism slows down, they could lose or gain weight. Ultimately, some senior dogs can suffer from cognitive changes, experiencing confusion, disorientation, or changes in sleep patterns due to cognitive dysfunction syndrome (similar to dementia in humans).Caring for a Senior DogAs dogs enter their senior years, they require extra care to ensure they remain healthy and comfortable.

How to Prevent Your Dog from Jumping on People

Dogs jumping on people may seem like a sign of excitement and affection, but it can be problematic, especially for children, elderly individuals, or anyone uncomfortable with an energetic greeting. Fortunately, with the right training and consistency, you can teach your dog to greet people more politely.Why Do Dogs Jump?Jumping is a natural behavior for dogs. Puppies often jump on their mother to get attention, and many dogs continue this behavior with humans. If jumping is reinforced - whether by petting, talking, or even pushing the dog away - it becomes a learned habit. The key to stopping this behavior is to teach an alternative, more acceptable way to greet people.Training Techniques to Prevent JumpingOne of the most effective ways to stop your dog from jumping is to ignore the behavior. Dogs often jump for attention, so turning away, crossing your arms, and avoiding eye contact can teach them that jumping doesn't get the reaction they seek. Instead, reward them only when they have all four paws on the ground. Reinforcing calm behavior with treats and praise will help them understand what is expected.

What Type of Exercise is Best for Senior Dogs?

Keeping senior dogs active is essential for their overall health and well-being. Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, supports joint function, and provides mental stimulation, all of which can improve their quality of life. However, as dogs age, their energy levels, mobility, and joint health change, requiring adjustments to their exercise routine. Choosing low-impact activities tailored to their needs can keep them comfortable while reducing the risk of injury. Here’s how to keep an older dog moving safely and effectively.Walking: A Gentle Yet Effective WorkoutWalking is one of the best exercises for senior dogs, providing cardiovascular benefits, joint support, and mental enrichment. To ensure safety and comfort:Keep walks shorter and slower than in their younger years, adjusting based on their endurance.Opt for soft surfaces like grass or dirt trails instead of hard pavement to reduce joint strain.Watch for signs of fatigue, such as slowing down, heavy panting, or limping, and allow rest breaks as needed.Always carry fresh water to keep your dog hydrated, especially in warm weather.

How Long Can You Leave Your Cat Alone at Home?

Cats are generally considered self-sufficient, independent, and somewhat aloof pets. In many cases, they won’t ask for constant attention, and will sometimes act as if they own you. Still, even though these can be very smart and free-spirited pets, the question remains – how independent are they really? Some owners wonder whether it is a smart decision to leave their cat alone at home even if they are not clingy, and if they will be able to stay safe in that case. Here’s what to know about leaving your feline friend home alone. How Long Can You Leave Your Cat Alone at Home?Sure, cats are independent and quirky. But like all animals and pets out there, they will require your attention and regular care. And even though they are much more independent than dogs, they will still rely on a steady routine that provides them with water, food, and a clean litter box. Usually, adult cats can be left alone for up to 24 to 48 hours, but it's essential to provide sufficient food, water, and clean litter before you leave.

Nationwide Pet Insurance Reveals Most Common Claims

Have you ever wondered what the most common causes of veterinary visits are? Well, pet insurance companies that receive claims when pets visit the vet are a good source for answers. Nationwide is one of many insurance companies that offer pet insurance plans, and they have over one million insured pets in their database. When they analyzed their data, they were able to figure out the top problems that cause dogs and cats to visit their vets. Below is a breakdown of what they found.  

UK Dog’s Brush with Death is a Reminder About THIS Holiday Hazard!

The holiday season is usually a time of joy, cheer, and quality time with friends and family. However, for our furry friends, it also introduces some significant hazards. This year, the family of eight-year-old crossbreed Shylah is sharing the pup’s story to remind pet parents everywhere to be diligent around their festive holiday décor. With just days until Christmas, Shylah was rushed to the PDSA Pet Hospital in Wolverhampton, a city in the West Midlands, England. What was the cause of this holiday scare? After being spooked by nearby fireworks, Shylah tried to seek comfort by grabbing a quick snack. Unfortunately, her comfort food of choice was approximately 3 feet of tinsel she found displayed on the mantelpiece. “I wondered if Shylah might have eaten it, but it wasn’t until a bit later, when she went off her food and was sick, that I got really worried,” shared her owner, who wishes to remain anonymous. Recognizing the significant concerns associated with a dog ingesting something they shouldn’t, her owner immediately called the local pet hospital at the first sign of trouble. The hospital told her to bring her right in, worried about the risk of an obstruction. “The x-ray revealed a large mass in her stomach, which we could only assume was the missing tinsel,” explained Jane Cutler, the senior vet at Wolverhampton PDSA. “She needed emergency surgery right away as if it made its way into her intestines, it could cause potentially fatal damage. The operation went ahead, and we were all pretty shocked when we pulled the entire length of tinsel out of her in one piece.” Shylah’s story had a happy ending, much to the delight of her family. Her owner reported that she was back to her normal self within just a few days of the ordeal and has since fully recovered. She added that she is now much more careful with the placement and location of her holiday decorations, ensuring that everything is well out of Shylah’s reach to avoid a similar incident. But not all holiday emergencies have a happy ending like Shylah’s. “As we saw with Shylah, pets can get into all sorts of scrapes and mishaps, and you never know when they might need urgent help,” stated Dr. Cutler. “Many of our teams work throughout the Christmas period to ensure we can always offer help to those that need it.” How Can You Keep Your Pets Safe This Holiday Season? While it’s comforting to know that there are veterinarians willing to dedicate their time, even during the holiday season, to ensure that our pets can get the care they need in an emergency, the best option is to prevent holiday accidents before they happen. Keep all holiday decorations safely out of your pet's reach. Don’t forget to account for the fact that some pets are skilled climbers (cats, we’re looking at you). Beware of any electrical cords and extension cords used to power your décor. Chewing these cords can lead to severe and even fatal injuries. Keep cords covered or out of reach. Steer clear of toxic plants like poinsettias and mistletoe. Instead, stick with pet-safe alternatives or a fake plant. Pay careful attention to your pets during holiday festivities, or secure them in another room. Common elements of holiday get-togethers like alcohol and chocolate are toxic to our pets. With a little planning and preparation, you can ensure everyone (human and pet) has a safe and happy holiday season!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Man Reunited with Dog After Cancer Kept Them Apart for Two Years

A man had to give up his beloved dog while he was battling cancer, but two years later, they were reunited.

Why Is My Puppy Whining?

While bringing a puppy home can be such a joyful and exciting event, it doesn’t mean it’s without challenges –especially for first-time dog owners. One of the (many) burning questions new puppy parents have is why their pet is whining and if it’s a sign of distress. Simply put, just like human babies, puppies need to communicate with the brand-new world around them. They do this by whining, which is their number one tool for expressing fear, hunger, frustration, or anything in between. The nuances can be difficult to spot when you’re not experienced with puppies, but once you know what to look for, it will be easy to differ when your puppy is whining because they are looking for a second breakfast or if it’s a more serious cause.Why Is My Puppy Whining? 5 Most Common Reasons for Puppy WhiningOne of the most common reasons why a puppy would whine is attention seeking. When faced with a new environment and away from their parents, puppies will usually feel scared and lonely, particularly if you are away. So, when they whine, they ask for comfort and company. Remember that these are social creatures, especially at such an early age, and if they feel neglected, they will whine until someone reacts. That is why it is crucial not to underestimate this need and to provide your puppy with lots of attention, playtime, and dog toys that would keep them engaged and feeling secure. Of course, it is not always about attention. Puppies will often whine to communicate that they are hungry or thirsty. Unlike adult dogs, puppies need multiple meals throughout the day, so make sure that you keep a regular feeding schedule that suits your puppy's developmental needs. In case your puppy is whining when it's close to meal time, it might just be their way of reminding you that it’s time to eat. Sometimes, the reason for a puppy to whine might be super simple, like fear and anxiety. After all, new environments, unfamiliar people, and loud noises are enough to scare anyone, let alone a fragile little puppy. One of the particular sources of anxiety for them is separation. They will quickly build a connection with you, and as soon as you leave, they might feel abandoned. To relieve this anxiety and minimize their whining, you should provide them with a source of comfort, like a favorite plush toy, a blankie, or even a piece of your clothing. 

Ready to De-Stress Bath Time for Your Dog?

(photo credit: Gudman / shutterstock.com)I was raised to believe you shouldn’t bathe a dog because it would deplete the natural oils in their fur and dry out their skin. Back in the day, it was assumed that a dog’s ability to self-groom was sufficient to take care of whatever clean-up they might need.Fast forward, and with dogs sleeping in our beds and snuggling on our sofas, we’re suddenly much more aware of the need to keep our pets well-groomed and yes, smelling fresher.Aesthetics aside, bathing your dog not only allows you to check for ticks, sores, and lumps that shouldn’t be there, but a periodic scrub can also keep his skin and hair, healthy. With some breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, and West Highland Terriers (to name a few), a skin condition called Seborrhea can be common. Yes, just like with humans it’s down to an increased production of skin cells and/or skin oils.When it’s the dry version, you get flaky, scaly skin cells (dandruff) caused by excess keratin production. When oily, you get a waxy substance comes from the sebaceous glands which causes your dog’s coat to look greasy.Whether your pooch falls into the above category or he simply loves to dig, burrow, and roll in whatever he can when given the chance, cleaning him up is something you both deserve.

Happy Ending as Cat Rescued From Eaton Fire Reunited With Family

During times of tragedy, sometimes we find the most heartwarming stories of hope and resilience. An example of this is the story of Carrot Cake, a beloved family cat whose story will bring a smile to your face and a tear to your eye. By this point, you have likely heard about the devastating Eaton Fire. The fire destroyed over 9,000 buildings and resulted in 17 lives lost, making it one of the most destructive fires in California’s history. Alongside this heartbreaking loss of homes and belongings, many pet parents faced the agonizing uncertainty of whether their furry family members had survived. Imagine the fear and uncertainty of having to evacuate your home, not knowing if you’d ever see your pet again. This was the sad reality for many. While the ideal situation involves evacuating with your best friend, situations can sometimes prevent that from becoming a reality – like a pet who has hidden and cannot be found. That’s exactly what happened to Stephen and his family when the Eaton Fire quickly approached their Altadena home. They had to leave, and sadly, despite their best efforts to locate him, Carrot Cake was nowhere to be found. When they were finally able to return, their home was gone. “[We] came back the following morning, [and] my house was cinders. I mean, my whole house was gone. I lost everything,” Stephen shared in a video interview. Nine days after the fire started, first responders made an incredible discovery. In a burnt-out area of Altadena, they discovered Carrot Cake. He had suffered burns to his paws and singed fur, but he was alive. The miracle cat was taken to the Pasadena Humane Society, where the heartwarming magic began. Stephen never gave up hope. “I knew he was a fighter. I thought maybe he had survived. It’s not that surprising to me. If any cat was going to survive, it was going to be this one,” he said. And he was right. Thanks to Carrot Cake being microchipped, shelter workers were able to contact Stephen and share the great news. The brave fighter was going to be reunited with his family. The reunion, captured on video, was incredibly emotional. Stephen was understandably overcome with joy and relief, exclaiming, “I just can’t believe it. I can’t believe they found him. I never thought I’d see him again,” tearfully petting Carrot Cake after seeing him safe and sound in a carrier.

How to Tell If Your Dog Has an Ear Infection

Ear infections are common in dogs and can cause significant discomfort if left untreated. Knowing the signs early can help prevent complications and ensure your pet gets the care it needs. Here’s everything you need to know about recognizing, treating, and preventing ear infections in dogs.Signs of an Ear Infection in DogsDogs with ear infections often display clear symptoms. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly:Frequent Scratching & Head Shaking: Excessive scratching at the ears or frequent head shaking can indicate irritation or pain.Redness & Swelling: Healthy dog ears should be light pink and free of inflammation. If the inner ear appears red, swollen, or warm to the touch, it may be infected.Foul Odor: A musty, yeasty, or foul smell from the ears is a strong indicator of an infection caused by bacteria or yeast overgrowth.Unusual Discharge: Thick, dark discharge (yellow, brown, or greenish) often signals an infection. Be mindful, however, that some dogs naturally produce more earwax than others.Pain & Sensitivity: If your dog whimpers, pulls away, or reacts negatively when you touch its ears, it could be experiencing discomfort from an infection.Hearing & Balance Issues: In severe cases, an untreated ear infection can affect a dog’s hearing and balance. Signs include disorientation, head tilting, or difficulty standing.Common Causes of Dog Ear InfectionsSeveral factors can contribute to ear infections in dogs:Bacteria & Yeast Overgrowth: Moist, warm environments inside a dog’s ears create the perfect conditions for bacteria and yeast to thrive, especially in floppy-eared breeds.Allergies: Dogs with food or environmental allergies are more prone to chronic ear infections due to inflammation.Ear Mites: These tiny parasites are a common cause of infections, particularly in puppies.Moisture & Poor Hygiene: Water trapped in the ears after swimming or bathing can promote bacterial growth. Regular cleaning is essential.Foreign Objects & Debris: Grass seeds, dirt, and other debris can get stuck in a dog’s ear canal, leading to irritation and infection.Preventing Ear Infections in DogsPrevention is key to keeping your dog’s ears healthy. Here are some simple steps you can take:

Spring Cleaning Tips for Pet Parents

Spring is a season of renewal, so it’s the perfect time to do some cleaning around the house to freshen things up, get rid of things you no longer need, and make space for new things. But if you share your home with pets, it’s important to take a few steps to ensure their well-being while you do your spring cleaning. Check out the information below to see how spring cleaning could potentially have adverse effects on pets, and what you can do to keep everyone happy.

World’s First Lab-Grown Meat Treat for Dogs Launches in the UK

There has been a growing interest in finding sustainable and eco-friendly solutions to many aspects of our lives, and pet care is no different. With this in mind, a new and innovative solution is now transforming the pet food industry, allowing pet parents to provide for their pets in a way that aligns with their values. The product inspiring further discussion about pet parenting while reducing your environmental footprint is “Chick Bites,” the world’s first commercially available pet treat incorporating lab-grown meat. Introduced to the pet space by London-based startup Meatly, the treats contain 4% cultivated chicken. The “meat” is produced by harvesting a small sample of animal cells – in this case, from a chicken egg – and growing them in a bioreactor with water in nutrients. After just a few weeks, the process results in a protein mass that mirrors traditional meat but with a much smaller environmental footprint, making it a humane and eco-friendly alternative. “Our intention was always to do cultivated meat for pet food. We recognized that there was a huge burning need in the pet world, with 20% of meat globally being eaten by our pets. The average Labrador eats more meat than its owner,” explained Meatly’s founder, Owen Ensor. The company reports that their process uses 50-60% less land, 30-40% less water, and produces about 40% fewer CO2 emissions than traditional agricultural approaches. As a bonus, the meat is nutritionally equivalent to traditional chicken but free from steroids, hormones, and antibiotics. The UK’s regulatory approval of Meatly’s product positions it as the first European market to offer cultivated meat for consumer purchase, whether for pets or humans. The legality of selling lab-grown meat is one of the major challenges companies like Meatly face, with only a handful of countries currently permitting products like this. The United States approved lab-grown meat in 2023, but the states of Florida and Alabama have since banned cultivated meat products. In addition to the legal challenges, there are still high costs associated with making cultivated meat. “Currently, we’re about £30 (about $37) per kilogram of the chicken that we’re producing, and we’d want to be between £5 and £10 (between $6.20 and $12.40),” says Ensor. “Our process is still quite expensive, but we’ve made incredible progress bringing the cost down, particularly of the nutrients we are feeding the chicken cells with. Those are often the most expensive components, and we’ve brought those down from what has been £700 (about $867) per liter to what is currently 26 pence per liter (about 32 cents). We have made this more cost-efficient by orders of thousands in the last two years and are continuing on that journey.”The treats are priced at £3.49 ($4.30) for 50 grams, making it a premium product. However, as the technology required for cultivating meat matures and becomes more cost-effective, it holds the potential for companies to offer more sustainable food solutions for our pets. Palatability testing with dogs has shown surprisingly positive results, with many dogs showing a preference for Chick Bites. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the future of sustainable food production, and it’s happening right here and now for our beloved pets.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Can Dogs Get Dry Eye? You Betcha!

Should You Get a Slow Feeder for Your Cat?

You have a lot of options for feeding your cat their favorite foods, from basic bowls and dishes to high-tech automatic feeders and the latest slow feeders. But what are the benefits of slow feeders, which are designed to make cats eat more slowly? Here are a few of the main reasons why you might want to give these products a try.

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).