Thinking Snow Protection for the Pooch This year? Check out Leggings!

5 Fun Facts About Rabbits You Might Not Know

Rabbits are far more interesting than many people realize. Beyond their soft fur and twitching noses, rabbits have unique behaviors and surprising traits that make them truly special companions. Here are five fun facts about pet rabbits you might not know. 

Which Cat Breeds Are The Most Expensive?

While many cats can be adopted from shelters for a small fee, some purebred cats command staggering prices due to their rarity, unique appearance, or specific breeding requirements. If you’re curious about the most expensive cat breeds, here’s a quick guide to some of the priciest felines in the world.

FDA Approves Long-Lasting Flea and Tick Treatment for Dogs

If you’ve ever found yourself flipping through your calendar and panicking over a missed flea treatment, we’ve got news that might change your whole routine. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just approved a once-a-year flea and tick shot for dogs, and it’s already making waves in the pet world.The product, called Bravecto Quantum, is an injectable medication that protects dogs from fleas and ticks for a full 12 months. Yes, you read that right, one vet visit, and your dog is covered for an entire year.The long-acting shot contains fluralaner, the same active ingredient found in other Bravecto products, but this version is specially formulated for extended release. That means no more monthly chewables, no more oily spot-ons, and no more reminders you snooze and forget. Bravecto Quantum has been used in Australia and Europe, but as of July 2025, it’s now officially FDA-approved and set to become available in U.S. veterinary clinics this August.For busy pet parents, this new option could be a total game changer.“Year-round protection in one easy injection,” said Dr. Christine Royal, veterinarian and executive director at Merck Animal Health. “It’s a convenient and effective option that supports compliance and peace of mind.” And that peace of mind is something pet owners know can be hard to come by, especially when juggling a household, a job, and a dog who absolutely refuses to eat that monthly pill hidden in peanut butter.The shot protects against fleas and three major types of ticks - American dog ticks, black-legged ticks, and brown dog ticks - for 12 months. It also offers eight months of protection against lone star ticks, which are increasingly common in many U.S. regions.Bravecto Quantum is administered by a veterinarian, not something you can do at home, which is actually a plus. It guarantees proper dosing and gives you a reason to take your dog for an annual health check, which many vets recommend anyway.Like any medication, it’s not totally risk-free. Fluralaner belongs to the isoxazoline class of drugs, which the FDA has linked to neurological side effects such as tremors and seizures, particularly in dogs with a history of those conditions. Common side effects may include mild injection site discomfort or lethargy, but these are generally short-lived.Dr. Tina Wismer, senior director at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, says this long-acting option could be particularly helpful for certain pet families. “In areas where ticks are active year-round, or for owners who struggle to remember monthly treatments, having a once-a-year injection simplifies things considerably,” she noted.So what’s the upside of Bravecto Quantum for pet parents?For starters, it reduces the risk of gaps in protection. Skipping just one monthly dose can leave your dog vulnerable, not just to fleas, but to serious diseases like Lyme, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, all of which are transmitted by ticks.It also means fewer products in your cabinet, fewer dosing errors, and let’s be honest, fewer wrestling matches with your dog on the kitchen floor.That said, it’s not a magic fix-all. You’ll still want to maintain a clean home environment, wash bedding regularly, and keep your yard tick-free. Flea and tick protection works best when it’s part of a bigger strategy.If your pup is six months or older and in good health, talk to your vet to see if the new shot might be right for them. It might just be the simplest way yet to keep them safe and give you one less thing to worry about for the next 365 days.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

5 Dog Breeds Loved by Royalty

Throughout history, royalty has often shared a special bond with dogs, treating them not just as pets but as companions, confidants, and symbols of status. These canine companions frequently reflected the personality, tastes, and prestige of their royal owners. Here are five dog breeds historically adored by monarchs around the world.

Cat Missing For 13 Years Returns Home to Spend Final Days with Family

Back in 2012, Jade Yhnell’s cat, Minx, went missing. One day she was there, the next Minx was gone. Jade had raised Minx from birth, bottle-fed and spoiled like most well-loved cats, and then just before Jade moved from Bristol to Tredegar, the little tabby slipped away.The family searched for their cat, posted posters, called all vets in the area, and took countless walks around the neighborhood. But nothing turned up. Eventually, life moved on. Jade and her partner settled into a new place and started a family.Thirteen years later, out of nowhere, Jade received a call.A veterinary clinic in Fishguard had taken in a scruffy, underweight cat that was found wandering. Although they didn’t expect the cat to be microchipped, they scanned for a chip anyway, as they always do. To everyone’s shock, they found that the cat was, in fact, chipped and that her name is Minx.Jade says she froze when she heard. Could it really be Minx? After all this time?She and her husband jumped in the car and drove for over two hours to get there. “I couldn’t stop shaking,” she told reporters. She didn’t know what to expect. Thirteen years is a long time, even in cat years, it’s a lifetime.But as soon as Jade stepped into the room, Minx walked up to her. She rubbed her face against Jade, purred, and head-butted like she used to. And then she did the same to Jade’s husband. Like no time had passed at all.Jade and her husband brought Minx home that very day.Minx had clearly been through a lot. She was thin, and her fur was matted, but she purred constantly. She met Jade’s kids, who hadn’t even been born when she disappeared, and nestled into their laps like she’d always been part of the family. “She came back to us for a reason,” Jade said. “I think she wanted to say goodbye properly.”Unfortunately, it turned out Minx had cancer. Jade didn’t say how long they had with her, but it wasn’t long. For the few weeks they had together, the family made sure Minx had all the comforts in the world. She slept in a warm bed again, had chin scratches, soft food, and little hands petting her head. She purred until the end.Stories like this are rare, but they aren’t impossible. Cats go missing all the time, and some of them, somehow, find their way back. Whether someone took her in or she wandered for years, no one knows what Minx lived through. What’s clear is that she survived, and somehow, she got back to where she was supposed to be.But if Minx hadn’t been microchipped, there would’ve been no reunion, no last days filled with love. That small chip is the only reason Jade got that phone call. It’s easy to forget how important microchipping is, but stories like this drive it home. If your pets aren’t chipped, now is the time to do it. You never think you’ll need it until you do.It’s hard to believe that this family got their cat back after thirteen years. It’s almost too much to believe. But pets have a funny way of surprising us. They disappear, and we prepare ourselves for the worst. But sometimes, against the odds, they come back, just in time to remind us how much they were loved.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Unlikely Pair Proves Friendship Knows No Species in Viral Video

We’re all familiar with the stereotype of dogs and cats as natural-born rivals, but one unlikely duo is proving that when it comes to love, no species barrier is too great. A viral video on TikTok of Mango, a tiny rescue kitten, and his new nurturing best friend, Melons the Labrador. Their journey from strangers to siblings is a powerful reminder of how a loving home can transform a life and mend a broken past. Just a few weeks ago, Mango’s future was uncertain. A friend of Tessa Carroll’s, a dog parent from Hawaii, found the five-week-old kitten trapped inside the engine of her car. Covered in motor oil and ridden with fleas, the tiny kitty was malnourished and in desperate need of help. When his rescuer reached in to grab him, he didn’t even fight. He simply surrendered, as if he knew his difficult journey was finally about to change directions. When Carroll’s friend called her and shared the young kitten’s story, she agreed to foster him. But first, she wanted to make sure he would get along with her 6-year-old Labrador, Melons. The first few nights were questionable. Mango was skittish and nervous around the much larger dog (understandably), but he never ran away. He seemed curious and apprehensive, all at the same time. But Melons proved to be an unexpected source of comfort. The submissive dog rolled over and invited the little kitten to say hello, showing patience and compassion. Within days, Mango’s apprehension began to fade. The little orange cat, who had been through so much, was starting to show his true colors. With a safe and loving environment, his confident and bold personality emerged.

Sound Bathing For Dogs is a Thing

This new style of bringing Zen-like calm into your pet's life is surprisingly easy to pull of.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Cats: Weighing up the Pros & Cons

Choosing whether your cat should live comfortably indoors or roam freely outside is one of the most important decisions a cat owner can make. Each lifestyle offers unique benefits and drawbacks for your pet's health, safety, and happiness, as well as your own peace of mind. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the pros and cons of indoor vs. outdoor cats to help guide your decision.

Shelters Seeking Fosters - Could You Help Raise a Newborn Kitten?

T'is the season for shelters to be seeking out kitten fosters for the tiniest kittens. Do you have what it takes?

3 Fun Facts About Dalmatians

Dalmatians are one of those dog breeds everyone recognizes instantly. With their spotted coats and energetic personalities, they’ve charmed their way into pop culture and people’s hearts. But there’s more to these dogs than meets the eye. Here are three fun facts that make Dalmatians truly special.

What Are the Signs of Dental Disease in Cats?

What would you do if someone told you there is a hidden issue silently affecting the comfort and well-being of many beloved kitties, something we might not even notice until it becomes a significant (and painful) problem?That hidden issue is feline dental disease.Dental problems are incredibly common, affecting a surprisingly high number of cats. Studies have found that between 50 and 90% of cats over the age of four are currently living with some form of dental disease, but it often goes unnoticed because our feline friends are masters of hiding pain.This guide will help you learn to recognize even the most subtle warning signs that your cat may be dealing with dental problems, the most common types of dental disease in cats, and how to prioritize dental care to prevent a problem before it develops.Understanding Dental Problems in CatsIt’s easy to assume that if your cat is acting normally, their mouth is fine. But the reality is that dental disease is a progressive struggle that often starts small and silently gets worse over time.It begins when bacteria in your cat’s mouth mix with food particles and saliva to form plaque – a soft, sticky film that coats their teeth. If that plaque isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar. Once tartar forms, it creates a rough surface that allows even more plaque to accumulate, laying the foundation for more serious issues to develop.While that summarizes the basics, dental disease isn’t a single problem. Instead, as the plaque and tartar continue to get worse, it can develop into a spectrum of conditions. Understanding these different conditions is the first step toward recognizing that your cat might be suffering and taking the necessary steps to help them feel better.GingivitisThis is the earliest stage of dental disease, characterized by inflammation of the gums. It’s primarily caused by the accumulation of plaque and bacteria along the gum line. You may notice your cat’s gums appearing red, swollen, or even bleeding easily, especially when touched or when your cat eats. You may also see small amounts of blood on your cat’s favourite chew toys.The good news is that gingivitis is often reversible with professional veterinary dental cleaning and consistent at-home dental care. The key to success is catching it early!Periodontal DiseaseIf gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontal disease. This is a much more serious condition that affects not just the gums but also the deeper structures that support the tooth, such as the bone and ligaments that hold the tooth in its socket. The bacteria and inflammation start to destroy these supporting structures, leading to the formation of “pockets” under the gumline where bacteria can accumulate.The damage caused by periodontal disease ultimately leads to bone loss, receding gums, and eventually, painful tooth loss. Unlike gingivitis, advanced periodontal disease is often irreversible, although its progression can be managed to avoid further complications. Your vet can also help with pain management to keep your cat comfortable.Tooth ResorptionIf you haven’t heard of this before, you’re not alone. This incredibly common and often very painful condition is unique to cats and one that many cat parents are unfamiliar with. It occurs when cells called odontoclasts, which are typically involved in tooth development, begin to erode and destroy the tooth's structure. This condition often begins inside the tooth or below the gum line.Because the lesions often start below the gum line, they can be difficult to spot without X-rays. However, affected cats may show signs of pain when eating (suddenly dropping food, chattering their jaws, reluctance to chew on one side), drooling, or increased sensitivity when the mouth is touched.StomatitisThis is a severe, widespread, and extremely painful inflammation of the entire mouth, not just the gums around the teeth. It can affect the gums, tongue, cheeks, and the back of the throat. Stomatitis is often an immune-mediated condition caused by the cat’s immune system overreacting to the bacteria and plaque in their mouth.Cats with stomatitis are in severe pain, massively impacting their quality of life. They are often uninterested in or unable to eat, excessively drooling, and may have very bad breath. Managing stomatitis can be challenging and usually requires aggressive treatment. In many cases, it will require full-month tooth extractions to relieve the pain and inflammation.Fractured TeethJust like humans, cats can fracture their teeth. This can happen from chewing on hard objects (like certain toys) or from trauma, such as a big fall. A previous cat of my own suffered a fractured tooth after slipping off a bookshelf she was trying to climb.When a tooth is fractured, it can expose the sensitive inner portion, which contains nerves and blood vessels. This is incredibly painful and also creates an open pathway for bacteria to enter, leading to infections and the formation of abscesses. For this reason, fractured teeth require immediate vet attention to both prevent infection and address your cat’s pain.Warning Signs of Dental DiseaseThe tricky part about dental disease is the fact that cats are masters of disguise. In the wild, showing any sign of weakness (like pain or illness) could make them vulnerable to predators. Despite their shift into life as a pampered housecat, the instinct to hide their pain remains strong. Often, they will suffer in silence, and by the time we notice something is wrong, the condition has progressed to more advanced stages.This is why it’s so crucial for us to be in tune with our cats and aware of even the most subtle changes. Don’t wait for your cat to scream in pain.Behavioral Changes (Often Subtle)These are the most common red flags, but they require a keen eye and understanding of your cat’s everyday habits. After all, no one knows your cat better than you.You might first notice changes in their eating habits. Your cat might start chewing more slowly, dropping pieces of food, or tilting their head to one side while chewing to avoid a painful area. If your cat suddenly seems picky about their dry food or treats, but eagerly digs into their wet food, it could be a sign that chewing hard kibble is simply too painful. Even a slight change in appetite or less enthusiasm at mealtimes should warrant investigation. Changes in grooming are another subtle sign. If your cat is experiencing pain from dental problems, self-grooming may be uncomfortable, painful, or impossible. You may notice that your cat has developed matted fur, their coat appears unkempt, or there are bits of food remaining around their mouth after a meal.A previously social cat might start hiding more often or avoid interacting with other pets or people in the home. If your cat normally enjoys head scratches but suddenly flinches or reacts negatively when you even lightly touch their mouth or face, it’s a strong sign that they’re in pain. A general lack of energy or disinterest in play, especially their favorite games, could also be a sign that something’s wrong.Watch out for excessive drooling. While some cats might drool when happy, persistent or excessive drooling, especially if it’s thick, discolored, or contains streaks of blood, is a major warning sign. This can be a sign of pain, nausea, or difficulty swallowing comfortably.Finally, you may notice your cat pawing at their mouth or face. They might bat at their mouth with a paw, rub their face on furniture or the floor, or repeatedly yawn or make chewing motions. These are all attempts to alleviate the pain and discomfort they are experiencing. This is a clear sign that something is bothering them.

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.

The Stinky Truth: Can My Dog's Diet Be Making Them Smell Bad?

The idea of “doggy smell” isn’t exactly foreign to dog parents. Whether they’ve been digging in the dirt or playing in a puddle, it’s all part of sharing our homes with our furry friends. But sometimes even that familiar scent takes a sharp and unpleasant turn. That unusual or strong “off” smell, whether it’s coming from their breath, their skin, or… the other end, may be more than just a minor annoyance. It could be a sign that something isn’t quite right.Your first instinct may be to check their ears, their teeth, and maybe even the backyard to search for things they may have gotten into. However, we often overlook the most critical place we should investigate: the dog bowl.Your dog’s food is the fuel that keeps them going, directly impacting everything from their gut health to their skin and coat condition. That means it’s also possible their food could be contributing to the recent (and likely unwanted) change.Keep reading to learn how your dog’s diet can directly and indirectly contribute to body odor, excessive gas, or foul breath. Plus, I’ll provide you with some actionable tips to help address and reduce that unwelcome odor, allowing your pup to get back to being their best (and best-smelling) self.How Can Your Dog’s Diet Cause an “Off” Smell?The idea that your dog’s diet can have an impact on their overall well-being makes sense, at its root. But how exactly can your dog’s diet change how they smell? When we discuss odors directly, we’re primarily referring to the digestive system. If a dog’s gut isn’t happy, it often lets you know through smell. But that’s not the only reason. Here are a few possible explanations:Gastrointestinal Distress & Excess GasPerhaps the most common complaint is the presence of foul-smelling gas. I know, our dogs have had their fair share of stinky farts. While some gas is normal, excessive or unusually foul odors can be a sign of digestive problems. This often boils down to food intolerances or sensitivities.Dogs, much like people, can struggle to properly break down certain ingredients in their food. Common culprits include specific protein sources (such as beef or chicken, especially if the dog has developed a sensitivity over time), certain grains (like wheat or corn), soy, or dairy products. When the dog’s small intestine can’t fully digest these ingredients, the undigested material travels to the large intestine, where bacteria rapidly ferment it. It is this fermentation process that is responsible for the rotten-egg odor.Similarly, diets containing high fiber or hard-to-digest ingredients (such as low-quality fillers or certain complex carbs) can increase gas production because they essentially act as food for bacteria in the lower gut.Another common culprit is a sudden change of diet. When dogs switch to a new food, it often takes a little time for their digestive system to adjust, leading to a period of increased gas. Sudden diet changes are even more challenging, disrupting the delicate balance of the gut microbiome and causing a temporary period of chaos (and unpleasant odor).Halitosis (Bad Breath)While bad breath in dogs is generally caused by dental problems, it’s important to note that your dog’s diet also plays a role in their dental health.When dogs eat soft, starchy, or high-carb foods, these particles easily get stuck on their teeth. This provides a feast for bacteria in the mouth. Over time, this collection of food particles leads to plaque and tartar buildup, eventually resulting in periodontal disease. The bacteria and infections present in gum disease are a major, often rotten, source of unpleasant smells from the mouth. Simply put, their diet fuels the bacteria that cause dental decay.Less commonly, strong breath odors may be related to the diet itself. For example, when a dog ingests highly concentrated fish oils or strong-smelling foods.In more severe cases of digestive troubles, the odors may actually be traveling from the stomach itself due to issues such as acid reflux or chronic indigestion. Other noticeable signs, like regurgitation or excessive lip-licking, often accompany these conditions.Anal Gland IssuesA strong, distinct fishy odor is a classic sign of issues with the anal glands, the two small sacs near the rectum. These little sacs naturally secrete a strong-smelling fluid when your dog does their “business,” triggered by the movement of firm, properly-formed stool putting the right amount of pressure on them.If a dog’s diet is lacking sources of quality fiber or is highly irregular, the resulting stools may be too soft, small, or mushy. This prevents the necessary pressure on the anal glands, leading to them becoming full, impacted, or even infected. When a dog strains, scoots, or a full gland leaks, the resulting odor is unmistakable and is a clear sign that their diet needs to be adjusted to improve their stool quality.Allergic Reactions & Skin Irritation One of the most common diet-related skin problems is the irritation caused by food-related allergic reactions or sensitivities. When a dog’s immune system reacts to a protein or other ingredient in their food, it can trigger inflammation in the skin, especially the skin located on the paws, ears, and belly. This irritation creates the “itch-scratch-odor” cycle. What does that mean? As the dog scratches and licks the inflamed area, it compromises the natural skin barrier, creating a warm, moist environment that encourages the overgrowth of yeast that naturally lives on the skin. This excessive growth of yeast is often associated with a musty, sweet odor that can be compared to the smell of corn chips. Here’s a quick breakdown of that cycle in action: Allergen Ingestion: A protein (like chicken or beef) triggers an immune response. Inflammation & Itching: The skin becomes red, irritated, and extremely itchy. Licking & Scratching: The dog damages the skin’s protective barrier trying to relieve the itch. Yeast Overgrowth: The damaged, moist skin encourages yeast growth, causing the signature odor, often accompanied by redness, darkening, or thick “elephant” skin. If the skin breakdown is severe, secondary bacterial infections can also take hold. This can lead to much stronger, sometimes foul or rancid odors that require veterinary attention to clear up.

Why Dogs Circle Before Lying Down

Does your dog turn a few slow circles before finally plopping down to rest? It’s one of those quirky habits that almost every dog does, yet few people stop to wonder why. The truth is, this seemingly odd ritual is deeply rooted in instinct, biology, and comfort. Here’s what you need to know.

Your Anxiety Could Be Making Your Pets Anxious

As a pet parent, you probably know that your dog or cat is pretty good at picking up on your emotions. Well, experts are confirming this by saying that your anxiety might end up rubbing off on your companion animals.

Louis the Cat Will Inspire You to Explore with Your Furry Friend!

In a world where our cats often spend their lives within the confines of the four walls of our homes, a remarkable cat named Louis is showing adventurous cat parents that there is a different way. This adventurous Persian, with his owners Dan Taylor and Jess Peters, made headlines last year for his hiking achievements as the first cat to climb all 3 British peaks. Now, he’s back to inspire others again after completing a new hiking challenge across the Peak and Lake Districts. While not every cat may be a natural-born hiker, his owners’ advice is a great starting point for anyone considering adventuring with their best friend. “Not all cats are adventurous, but Louis is one of them,” cat dad Dan Taylor explained. “If anyone feels like they have an adventurous cat living with them, they can start them off with small adventures to build them up and see how they do. Some cats are interested in doing things like this.” There are several things to consider before hitting the trail. First, ensure your cat is comfortable with a harness and a leash. Start by letting them wear it for short periods inside the house. Next, gradually introduce them to the outdoors in a quiet, safe space like your backyard. Once they’re comfortable, you can move to short walks in a low-traffic area. Always remember to prioritize your cat’s safety and comfort. Look for signs of stress and never force them into a situation they’re not ready for. Common signs of stress in cats include: Changes in appetiteDigestive problems (diarrhea, constipation, frequent vomiting)Accidents outside the litter boxOvergrooming (may result in skin irritation or bald spots) Excessive vocalization Increased aggression or irritability (hissing, scratching, biting)TremblingWithdrawal or attempting to hide Louis’ adventures have earned him quite a dedicated following on his Instagram account, @lordlouis_persian. The couple has also used his platform for good, launching a fundraiser to support Cats Protection and a film project for Jess’s novel. The fundraiser highlights his efforts to explore the Catbells Ridge Walk and The Great Ridge Walk to raise attention and funds for the care and rehoming efforts of the organization, changing the lives of rescue cats in need. While 50% of funds raised will go to Cats Protection, Louis’s efforts are also going to help his cat mom, Jess Peters, achieve a dream of her own. The other 50% of the funds will help bring her fantasy novel, Alchemy Academy, to the big screen with StormLightUK. This brave kitty and his many adventures serve as a powerful testament to the bond between a pet and their person. They show us that with patience, preparation, and a little bravery, we can share incredible experiences with our best furry friends. It’s a great way to enrich their lives and our own in the process. Louis is not just a hiking cat; he’s an inspiration to use all to step outside, explore, and create unforgettable memories with the pets we love so much! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

How Do I Know If My Dog Has Tapeworm?

It’s never fun to think about your dog having parasites, but unfortunately, they’re a common part of pet ownership - especially when it comes to tapeworms. These flat, segmented parasites like to take up residence in a dog’s intestines, and while they might not cause dramatic symptoms at first, they’re definitely something to catch and treat as early as possible. So how can you tell if your dog has tapeworm? Here’s what to watch for and what to do next.Spotting the Signs: What Tapeworms Look LikeOne of the clearest signs your dog has tapeworms doesn’t come from their behavior - it comes from what you see. Tapeworms often break into segments, and those segments exit the body through your dog’s poop or around their anus.They look like:Tiny white or beige rice-like grainsDried yellow specks stuck to fur around the rearWriggling flat pieces in fresh stoolIf you see something that matches this description, it’s time to call the vet.Other Signs Your Dog Might Have TapewormsWhile many dogs don’t show strong symptoms at first, some do develop signs of discomfort or irritation. These can include: Scooting: Dragging their rear on the groundExcessive licking or biting at their hind endIncreased appetite without weight gainMild digestive upset, like loose stoolsIn rare cases - especially if the infestation is severe or prolonged - dogs may become lethargic, lose weight, or develop a dull coat.How Do Dogs Get Tapeworms?Most dogs get tapeworms by swallowing fleas infected with tapeworm larvae. This can happen when grooming or biting at itchy skin. It’s one reason why good flea control is essential - even if your dog isn’t scratching.Other potential sources include:Eating raw or undercooked meatScavenging on wildlife or garbageContact with contaminated environmentsGetting a DiagnosisIf you suspect your dog has tapeworms, your vet can confirm it through a stool sample. Bring a fresh sample to your appointment if possible. Sometimes visual identification of segments is enough, but lab analysis can also help identify other types of intestinal parasites.Treatment Is Simple - and EffectiveThe good news? Tapeworms are typically easy to treat with a deworming medication, usually given as a tablet or topical solution. One or two doses are often enough to clear the worms, but your vet may recommend a follow-up dose or test depending on your dog’s situation.

Are Communal Water Bowls Safe for Dogs? Not Really!