These Common Household Items Could Harm Your Dog

Vet Pinpoints Common Household Dangers for Pets

No other place feels like home; it’s where our furry companions feel cozy and safe. However, some common household objects can turn a loving home into a danger zone.A second-year emergency and critical care resident at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Dr. Shayna Doyle, warns pet parents about common but unsuspecting toxins found in homes and shares tips on how to keep our four-legged friends safe from these potential dangers. Pets, especially cats, are known to be curious and always in the mood to explore every nook and cranny of their homes. Sometimes, unfortunately, these adventures can put a pet’s life in danger. Electrical cords, insect repellent, and certain human medications, including ibuprofen, aspirin, alprazolam, and acetaminophen, among many others, can be dangerous and even fatal to pets. But meds aren’t the only items that can send your beloved pet to the vet. Many pet parents are unaware that common household plants like lilies and Dieffenbachia are very toxic to cats and dogs. Ingesting them can cause kidney damage, heart problems, convulsions, and even death.The kitchen, the place where all cats and dogs want to be, is a true danger zone. Items like coffee, chocolate, alcohol, and peanut butter are toxic to cats and dogs. “A sharp item like an animal bone can poke holes anywhere and everywhere, including in a pet’s mouth, esophagus, stomach, and intestines,” said Doyle. “They can also get stuck in their jaw or esophagus.”Eating bones can cause blockages in the small intestine, which are often life-threatening and require immediate surgery. While exploring their homes, cats and dogs can come across stray batteries, which contain countless potentially harmful chemicals. Mercury, sulphuric acid, nickel, lead, and cadmium are found even in the smallest batteries and are toxic to pets. “Button batteries, or the flat batteries you might put in a garage door opener, for example, are the worst kind of battery for pets to ingest,” said Doyle. “These batteries generate electrical current on any moist surface, so they can burn through an animal's entire gastrointestinal tract and create extremely severe symptoms.” Keeping an eye on pets as they snoop around the house is the best way to keep them safe from common household toxins. Pet parents should also be aware of their pet’s health and look for signs of poisoning. The most common symptoms of toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, wobbly gait, behavioral changes, loss of appetite, and lethargy. “If symptoms are something you’d be worried about in a human child, it’s worth having a pet evaluated by a veterinarian,” Doyle added. Even if you do everything right and pet-proof your home, accidents can still happen. Pets are known to go to great lengths to get into things they shouldn’t. A spilled drink, leftover yarn, or a small battery may seem insignificant but prove fatal for a pet. “Just as parents would child-proof a home, pet owners should pet-proof a home. That means keeping all dangerous items out of reach, even ones you think your pet wouldn’t go to eat or chew on,” said Doyle. “When animals are bored, home alone, or unsupervised, they can do things that we would never expect, so it’s important to be prepared to try to prevent as many negative outcomes as possible.” Once you learn which common household items can harm your four-legged companion, you’ll be able to take steps to keep those items out of your pet’s reach and have a plan in case you need to rush your pet to an emergency veterinary clinic if poisoning occurs.  Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

5 Common Pet Food Ingredients That Could Harm Your Dog

We all know there’s little that dogs wouldn’t eat. But just because they wouldn’t mind eating a month-old Dorito they found behind the sofa, it doesn’t mean that they should.

Top 10 Common Household Products Poisonous for Dogs

They may be tucked away in a cupboard, or in common view on a kitchen counter. They’re common household products that are poisonous if ingested by your dog. Every dog is unique in his own individual way but all dogs have one thing in common – they will eat anything. From table scraps and garbage to your new pair of shoes, there are few things that your dog will not eat or, at the very least, take a sample of. Unfortunately, dogs often eat before they think and they do not know when something is potentially bad for them. Before you brought your dog home for the first time, you probably puppy proofed your home. You put away the obvious things like cleaning chemicals and chocolate, but there are a number of other common household things that you may not realize are toxic for dogs. Here’s a go-to list of the top 10 common household items that are poisonous to dogs. Garbage and Food Scraps

Thrifty Tips On How To Save Money In Your Dog-Friendly Household

Dog owners know that raising a dog can be expensive. But there are many ways that you can cut costs without sacrificing your dog’s health or happiness (not to mention your paycheck). Here are eight ways to reduce your expenses: Make Your Own Treats. Not only can you make healthy, homemade treats cheaper than the designer store-bought ones, you can often whip up a batch with ingredients you already have laying around. Since there are no preservatives, you’ll need to refrigerate or freeze your homemade dog treats to keep them from going stale. If you haven’t noticed, we’ve got a ton of different dog treat recipes you can try.Pet Insurance. Believe it or not, it can be the cheaper way to go. Keeping your fingers crossed is not the most effective way to ensure your dog’s heath. You don’t know what health crises the future is going to bring. X-rays, surgery, infections, cuts and emergency treatment – the bills start to add up. Some people may call it a gamble or scam, but the truth is dog insurance coverage could end up saving you hundreds or thousands of dollars in the long run. And if you’ve got more than one pet, most insurance companies will offer you a discounted bundle plan. Be sure to shop around for the best rates and coverage, and know what your dog is covered for before signing on the dotted line.Buy Quality Products. These products may have a steeper price tag, but they will save you money long-term. When you buy quality leashes, collars and toys, they tend to last longer. This means you aren’t running out every week to replace shoddy items (which are often unsafe anyway). Avoid “cutesy” impulse items and stick to the necessary basics your dog will need.Make a Dog Budget. Money set aside for dog purchases and expenses should be part of your regular monthly budget. This amount should cover all of your regular dog costs (food, insurance, supplies) as well as providing extra to build a nest egg for unexpected costs. It will take a huge load off your mind (and wallet) knowing that you’re prepared for expensive surprises.DIY Grooming. If expensive visits to the groomer are putting too much of a strain on your finances, you can give your pooch a wash and haircut at home. Invest in the right grooming tools, such as brushes, combs, nail trimmers, shampoos, clippers and ear care products. Keeping up with grooming rituals will make the process go faster and will keep your dog looking his best.Watch For Sales and Sign Up for Coupons. You’ll usually find the best sales take place right after the holidays (seasonal items). And you’ll always grab a good deal on shopping holidays, Black Friday and Cyber Monday being two of the most popular. Sign up for your favorite pet store’s newsletters or emails, as they usually alert you to special savings, sales and coupons. When they’re having a 20 to 30 percent off sale, stock up on the items you know you’ll use. You can also sign up at sites such as Coupaw and Doggyloot. These sites offer daily, weekly and monthly sales… but make sure only to purchase the things you really need and check to see how much it will cost to ship the items.Daily Dental Care. Make brushing your dog’s teeth part of your daily routine. Keeping those chompers clean helps to promote good overall health. And daily brushing will mean you won’t have to take your dog to the vets for expensive dental exams and plaque removal. Dog toothbrushes and toothpaste are available at most pet stores.Be Your Own Dog Trainer. If you’re an experienced dog owner, you can train your dog at home and skip the expensive classes. Consistency is important, so training should be part of your daily or weekly routine. There are plenty of online resources and books from the library that can help you develop a training program. And if you’re a first-time owner, many vets and trainers offer affordable basic obedience classes – this will help you avoid hiring a private trainer if your dog develops unmanageable behaviors in the future. What do you do to help cut down on costs in your dog-friendly household? Please post your thrifty tips in the comment section below.

Study Finds Dogs Really Are Surrogates to Having Children

Research finds pooches are not only a key member of the household, they've become the much-loved child in a childless family.

5 Common Fall Decor Pieces That Aren’t Pet Safe

Fall is a cozy and festive time of year, filled with warm colors, scented candles, and seasonal decorations. However, many pet owners don’t realize that these beautiful décor pieces can actually be dangerous for their furry friends. Here are 5 common ones to look out for.

Should I Feed My Cat Wet or Dry Food?

If you’ve ever stood in the pet food aisle trying to choose between cans and kibble, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions cat owners face is whether wet or dry food is better - and the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Both options offer their own benefits and drawbacks, and the best choice often depends on your cat’s specific needs, preferences, and lifestyle.Here’s what to know when deciding what to put in your cat’s bowl.Wet vs. Dry: What’s the Real Difference?Both wet and dry cat foods can provide complete and balanced nutrition, as long as they meet standards set by reputable veterinary organizations like the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). The key difference between them is moisture content. Wet food contains around 70–80% water, while dry food has about 10% - making wet food a great source of hydration.This is especially important because many cats naturally have a low thirst drive. Descended from desert-dwelling animals, cats often don’t drink as much water as they should. Feeding wet food can help prevent dehydration and may support urinary and kidney health, particularly in older or more sensitive cats. Dry food, on the other hand, is more calorie-dense. Cats eat less of it but take in more energy per bite. That can be a plus for very active cats, but it may contribute to weight gain in indoor or less active pets. Dry food is also convenient, shelf-stable, and easy to store - making it a practical choice for busy households or those with multiple cats.

7-7-7 Rule for Puppies is a Sleep Saver for Pet Parents

Want to know how to get your little guy to sleep through the night? Use this quick guideline to help familiarize him with his new surroundings.

Beginner-Friendly Reptiles: 5 Low-Maintenance Species You’ll Love

Thinking about diving into the world of reptiles but not sure where to start? Don’t worry, not all scaly pets require excessively complicated setups or exotic diets. In fact, some reptiles are surprisingly low-maintenance and perfect for beginners who are ready to try something a little more… cold-blooded.Here are five beginner-friendly reptiles that are generally easy to care for, fun to observe, and make awesome companions for first-timers.

Your Dog Will Love These Easy DIY Pumpkin Oat Treats

Looking for a healthy, no-fuss dog treat that’s gentle on your pup’s tummy? These DIY pumpkin oat dog treats are the perfect solution. Made with just a few pantry staples, they’re quick to whip up and packed with fiber, flavor, and tail-wagging goodness.

Adding a Degu to the Family? Let's Get You Properly Set Up!

Missing Dachshund Found Safe after Surviving 529 Days in the Wild

After surviving more than 500 days in the wild, Valerie, an eight-pound miniature dachshund, has finally been safely rescued and reunited with her owners. The tiny pooch went missing on Kangaroo Island in South Australia in November 2023 while vacationing with her owners. Conservationists have rescued the little runaway who evaded capture for so long. “Kangala Wildlife Rescue is overjoyed to announce the successful rescue of Valerie,” the organization shared on TikTok.“After weeks of tireless effort by Kangala Wildlife Rescue volunteers and partner organizations, Valerie has been safely rescued and is fit and well,” the group said. “We are absolutely thrilled and deeply relieved that Valerie is finally safe and able to begin her transition back to her loving parents, Josh and Georgia.”The cute pup made global headlines after the rescue organization shared her story on Instagram in March. In the post, the Kangala Wildlife Rescue said that they have been looking for Valerie for months, ever since she escaped while on holiday with her owners at Stokes Bay. This remote part of Kangaroo Island is known for its rugged terrain and wildlife. Valerie's owners and the locals searched for the pooch for days after she went missing, but to no avail. While Josh and Georgia eventually abandoned the search to return home, the Kangala Wildlife Rescue volunteers continued looking for the dog.“No one believed that a little dachshund like Valerie would survive alone in the wild, but more than 12 months after she went missing, regular reports started coming in about a dachshund with a pink collar being seen about 15 kilometers from Stokes Bay,” the rescue wrote on social media. “Based on firsthand accounts and video evidence, we now know that Valerie is alive. She runs at the first sight of humans or vehicles, and despite the best efforts of dedicated island locals, Valerie has been impossible to catch.” After several reported sightings of Valerie, the rescue team was on a mission to reunite the lost pooch with her owners. Even with the help of surveillance equipment, traps, and lures, the volunteers have spent over 1,000 hours and have traveled more than 3,000 miles searching for Valerie.Recently, the rescue team began tracking and analyzing Valerie’s movement to create a plan to lure her into a secure location. The team used treats and toys from Valerie’s home to coax her into a trap. After several failed rescue attempts and one run-in with a group of possums, the rescue mission was a success. “There were many challenging moments over the past month, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who played a part in bringing Valerie home,” the group said. Valerie’s resourcefulness and resilience have surprised her owners, who have lost hope of seeing their beloved canine ever again. “We thought, instead of her surviving out in the wild, maybe someone had kind of adopted her, or she was hanging out with some other dogs and getting food because she was an absolute little princess.”Rescues and experts believe that Valerie may have eaten roadkill, dam water, or perhaps received some food from the locals. According to Poul McGreevy, a professor at the University of Sydney's Veterinary School, dogs are the greatest opportunists in the animal kingdom, and dachshunds, like all other dogs, are extremely resourceful. “Valerie’s story is a reminder that hope and determination can lead to incredible results,” shared Kangala Wildlife Rescue in a post. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Study Finds Owning a Pet Is As Good For You As Being Married

Owning a pet cat or a dog can be as satisfying as being married, or regularly seeing your friends, or family, a new study shows. The study, published in the journal Social Indicators Research, also found that having a four-legged companion offers the same psychological benefits as being married or earning an extra $90,000 a year. Researchers at Kent University used the “life satisfaction” approach, which economists use to measure intangible assets like family and friendship, to calculate a hypothetical income. The study analyzed data from 2,500 British families and found that owning a pet comes with an increase in life satisfaction of 3-4 points on a scale of 1-7. Similar values were acquired for meeting with friends and family regularly.In other studies, economists have shown that marriage, compared to being single, is worth around $90,000 a year. On the other hand, separation is equal to around minus $170,000. The lead author of this study, Dr Adelina Gschwandtner, an economics professor at the University of Kent, told The Times she was inspired by a recent research paper that put a price tag on human friendships. “I thought, ‘well, if it’s possible for friends, why not for pets?’”“I understand why some people may be skeptical,” she added. “Given that pets are considered by many as best friends and family members, these values appear to be plausible… I also suspect that many people don’t actually realize how important their pets are for them.”Numerous studies have shown that owning a pet offers many health benefits. Research shows that spending time with a dog relieves stress, keeps you active, and helps you live longer. Stroking a cat has been proven to lower blood pressure and heart rate. Having a cat at home can reduce the risk of asthma and allergic rhinitis in children exposed to allergens. A simple act of petting a cat or a dog helps lower the levels of the stress hormone cortisol, promoting calmness and reducing stress. Dr Gschwandtner added, “This research answers the question whether overall pet companions are good for us with a resounding ‘Yes’.”“Pets care for us, and there is a significant monetary value associated with their companionship. This information can be used for health care practices and policy aiming to increase well-being and life satisfaction of humans involving pets.” This study also shed some light on the personality traits of pet owners, noting that cat owners appear to be more open, while dog owners tend to be more agreeable, extroverted, and less neurotic. The study’s authors also pointed out that pet owners in general appear to be more open, conscientious, and extroverted than people who don’t own a pet.While the mental and physical benefits of owning a dog are well-known, scientists are still debating the overall impact pets have on their owners’ well-being. According to Megan Mueller, an associate professor at Tufts University who studies the relationship between people and animals, things are more complicated than they seem. “A lot of us see our pets as contributing to our life satisfaction, but depending on how you measure that in the research, it comes out different ways.” But rather than comparing pet ownership and life satisfaction, the authors of this study decided to prove a causal link. If the results of this study are correct, and pets improve satisfaction as much as data suggests, Dr Gschwandtner hopes policymakers will make it easier for people to own cats or dogs. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Study Reveals The Best Way to Get a Dog's Attention

Whether it’s teaching a new trick or simply guiding them away from something they shouldn’t be chewing, getting our dog’s attention is a fundamental part of daily life as a dog parent. But it’s not always that easy, is it? We’ve all experienced the slight frustration of a dog who seemingly has selective hearing, haven’t we? Well, new research out of the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna might offer us a more effective strategy. A new study in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B has shed light on the most successful way to grab your dog’s attention and direct their focus: a combination of pointing and looking directly at the desired object. This may seem intuitive, directing their gaze through your own body language. After all, dogs are masters of reading body language. However, this study went a step further by tracking the dogs’ gazes with specialized headgear, providing concrete evidence for this recommended two-step approach. The research team, led by Christoph J. Völter, outfitted a total of twenty dogs with cameras to record where their eyes were directed during a treat-finding experiment. This group included eight mixed breeds, four terriers, two Australian shepherds, two poodles, a collie, a flat-coated retriever, a German shepherd, and a Rhodesian Ridgeback. An experimenter would hide a treat in one of two bowls and then use different cues to signal to the dog which bowl held the reward. The cues included pointing, gazing at the bowl, pretending to throw a ball towards it, and combining pointing with gazing. The results were quite interesting! When the experimenter both pointed and stared at the correct bowl, the dogs were significantly more successful at locating the treat. The researchers noted that the dogs’ gaze would typically shift from the experimenter’s face to their hand (the point) and then directly to the bowl containing the treat. This clear sequence suggests that the combined cues effectively guided the dogs’ attention to the intended target. Pointing alone did prompt the dogs to look towards the hand, but it wasn’t as effective in directing their gaze to the specific bowl. Similarly, the pretend ball throw, while often getting the dogs to look in the general direction, didn’t lead to a focused gaze on the treat-containing bowl. Instead, their gaze quickly searched for the invisible ball before giving up and returning to the experimenter. This highlights the power of a clear, directional cue like pointing, especially when reinforced with direct eye contact. “Is it for them more like an imperative directive to go somewhere? Or do they understand it more in a communicative way?” Völter explained when discussing the results of the study. The research team believes more studies are needed on the topic before that question can be definitively answered. What does it mean for us, dog parents? The next time you need to direct your dog’s attention to a specific object, remember the power of combining a clear point with direct eye contact. This scientifically-backed yet straightforward technique could be the key to clearer communication, more effective training, and a stronger bond. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Everything You Need to Know Before Getting a Pet Tortoise

Tortoises are fascinating, long-lived reptiles that can make rewarding pets for the right person. However, they require specific care, a long-term commitment, and a solid understanding of their needs. If you're considering bringing a tortoise into your home, here's everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Is It Safe to Keep Fish in a Small Bowl?

Fish can be peaceful, mesmerizing pets, perfect for those looking to add a bit of calm to their daily routine. But when it comes to setting up the right environment for them, the classic image of a lone goldfish in a clear, round bowl raises an important question: is it actually safe to keep fish in a small bowl?The short answer? No - not really.While fish bowls are often marketed as a simple, low-maintenance solution (especially for beginners), they fall short in several critical ways when it comes to keeping fish healthy and happy. Let’s explore why.Why Small Bowls Are Problematic for Fish1. Poor Water QualityOne of the biggest challenges in fishkeeping - especially in small containers - is maintaining clean, safe water. In a bowl, fish waste builds up quickly, causing harmful levels of ammonia and nitrates. Without a filtration system to remove these toxins, the water becomes increasingly dangerous for the fish. Even frequent water changes often aren’t enough to keep up in such a small volume.

Best Dog Breeds for Those With Anxiety

Time and time again, research has shown that pets can be good for your mental health. Pet parents turn to their animals when stressed, and value their animals as much as family. Pets can improve your well-being, and dogs can tell when you’re stressed. So, it should come as no surprise that dogs can provide benefits to those who experience anxiety. 

How to Care for a Rabbit: A Practical Guide for New Owners

Rabbits are gentle, intelligent, and adorable as it gets - but they’re also often misunderstood. While they might seem like low-maintenance pets, caring for a rabbit requires daily attention, proper setup, and an understanding of their unique needs. Whether you're considering adopting a bunny or you've just welcomed one home, here's what you need to know to help them thrive.Creating the Right Living SpaceBefore anything else, think about where your rabbit will live. Rabbits can live indoors or outdoors, but no matter the setting, they need a safe, spacious, and enriching environment.For indoor rabbits, a large exercise pen or a rabbit-proofed room is ideal. Make sure to cover electrical cords, remove toxic plants, and block access to narrow spaces where they might get stuck. A traditional cage is usually too small - your rabbit should be able to stretch out fully, hop around, and stand up on their hind legs comfortably.