UK Cat Cafes in Danger of Shutting Down

What Is Pica In Dogs?

Pica is a behavioral disorder in dogs characterized by the persistent consumption of non-food items. Dogs with pica may ingest objects such as plastic, rocks, fabric, wood, paper, and metal. While occasional chewing or mouthing of objects is normal, repeated ingestion of nonnutritive substances can signal an underlying medical or psychological issue. Understanding pica and its treatment is crucial, as consuming hard or indigestible objects can pose serious health risks to your pet.Causes of Pica in DogsPica can arise due to medical conditions, dietary deficiencies, or behavioral issues. Some health problems, such as inflammatory bowel disease ( IBD) , parasitic infections, and hormonal imbalances like diabetes or thyroid disorders, may trigger abnormal cravings. Inadequate levels of essential nutrients - such as iron, vitamins, or fiber - can also drive dogs to seek out non-food substances. On the behavioral side, anxiety and stress are common culprits, especially in dogs experiencing separation anxiety, boredom, or sudden changes in their environment. Some dogs may even develop pica as a way to get attention, learning that eating non-food items prompts a reaction from their owners. In certain breeds, compulsive tendencies can also contribute to this unusual behavior.Risks and Health ComplicationsThe primary symptom of pica is the repeated ingestion of non-food items, which can lead to severe health complications:Gastrointestinal Blockage: Swallowed objects such as plastic, stones, or fabric can cause life-threatening obstructions that often require surgical intervention.Toxicity: Some non-food items, including certain plants, chemicals, and household products, can be poisonous to dogs.Dental Damage: Hard objects like metal or rocks can break teeth or cause mouth injuries, leading to pain and potential infections.If a dog exhibits symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, constipation, or loss of appetite, immediate veterinary care is essential.Treatment and PreventionThe good news is that pica can often be managed once you figure out the root cause. Here are some ways to help:

It's Muddy Paw Season! Are You Ready?

(photo credit: FoodFocus / shutterstock.com)One of the true rites of passage to being a dog owner is dealing with muddy paws. During the pandemic, I was glued to the myriad designer shows that were streaming on every network. And I think I may have drooled a little as I watched them stroll through those renovated homes that now featured mud rooms and something that’s I considered totally OTT - dog washing stations. I mean it’s really just a hand-held showerhead that you use to hose off muddy feet before they go racing through the house, across the carpets and onto the furniture. But what a concept – cleaning your dog’s paws before he enters the house.With three dogs and an amazing 19-acre leash-free park just a five-minute drive away, we enjoy having the room to roam during all four seasons. And because that includes those mushy snow thaws and spring showers, we’re talking mud. And lots of it. I’ve tried bringing damp towels to clean off dirty feet as well as those pre-moistened baby wipes that a fellow pet parent once suggested. Neither was enough to make a dent in the dirt.

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.

Stocky Swimming Bulldog Raises Questions on Social Media

Ideal solution for joint health or possible danger to flat-faced breed.

What Are Good Reptiles for First-Time Owners?

Reptiles are becoming increasingly popular as pets and it’s easy to see why. With their unique looks, quiet nature, and relatively low-maintenance lifestyle, they offer a refreshing alternative to traditional pets like dogs or cats.But not all reptiles are equally suited for beginners. Some require highly specific care, specialized diets, or large, complex enclosures. That’s why first-time reptile owners should look for species that are hardy, easy to care for, and have calm, manageable temperaments.Here are some of the best reptiles for beginners - and why they make such great first-time pets.Leopard Gecko

Cats Died After Drinking Raw Milk Infected with Bird Flu

Five indoor cats from the same household died after drinking recalled raw milk from Raw Farm, LLC, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. Testing on four of the cats confirmed that they were infected with H5 bird flu.  

It's Valentine's Day! And What Your Pet Wants is a Great Massage.

(photo credit: Javeir Brusch / shutterstock.com)Forget those boring treats, ho-hum toys, and expected cuddles next month. What your good buddy really wants for Valentine’s Day is a great massage and he’s counting on you to come through - because you always do.Now, just like with humans, massage can be therapeutic and a great way to relieve the stress and tension your pooch has been carrying around lately. It’s also a perfect opportunity to bond with your dog, improve his range of motion, and let you know if he has any tender spots you may want to keep an eye on.Ready to push the boat out this year? Try adding calming music or aromatherapy – both are special touches that any dog will appreciate. But before you go all Zen, it’s important that you’re working with the right equipment for your particular pooch. Is he cool with sound or vibration? Does he enjoy his back being rubbed but not so much his head and neck? There’s a massage tool for every dog type and you’ll be glad to learn you don’t need to break the bank or invest in formal training to deliver that relaxing rub-down your best buddy deserves. In fact, it’s almost guaranteed that he’ll enjoy this one-on-one time so much, he’ll be back again and again and again…

Front-Load Dog Carriers Keep Him In On All the Action

(photo credit: Net Vector / shutterstock.com)It’s that awkward size. A dog that’s not quite big enough for the endurance of a long hike, but not so small that you can tuck him neatly into a pet sling and effortlessly tote him around on all those outdoor adventures. When your dog loves to get a front-row seat for all the action, when his spirit is willing but his little legs aren’t up to a marathon trek, a front-load dog carrier may just be the ticket. Alternatively, when your primary mode of transportation leans towards the two-wheel variety, and you want to include your pooch in all those fun outings, finding the right travel gear is essential.Designed for dogs weighing upwards of 12 pounds but typically less than 30, this type of carrier safely secures your pet so that you can comfortably transport him for short (or long) periods. And today’s new harnesses are strategically designed to prevent you from experiencing shoulder fatigue – meaning all parties remain comfortable.Not only is your pooch front facing to receive the smiles and accolades of the passing public, but for wilderness hikes, he gets to enjoy the flora and fauna from an entirely new vantage point – five feet off the ground. Now, for older pets or those with limited mobility, a front-load dog carrier is perfect for keeping them close, warm, comfortable and engaged in their surroundings. And as we all know, mental stimulation is critical for dogs of any size or age. Best of all, because these carriers are constructed for a quick load/unload process, your pet can easily resume his walk or take a comfort break as frequently as needed.

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.

Tripping Over Cat Toys? Problem Solved!

(photo credit: New Africa / shutterstock.com)Are you tired of stepping on squeaky toys and finding plush playthings tucked behind sofa cushions and under furniture each morning? If your home is like mine, my two felines tend to “harvest” their loot sometime during the wee hours of the morning. That’s when I’m asleep and they’re roaming the house for something to do. Swat a catnip mouse around for a while, cart a fuzzy toy about, drop them both and search for something else to hunt down and parade around. Mornings at my home look like a PetSmart war zone with fluffy bits and pieces discarded all over the place.Now, I’m not suggesting that you can train a cat to put her toys back where she got them, but having a dedicated space means that all her stuff can be centrally located and, at least for the better part of a day, you get to reclaim your living space and stash her booty in a handy little bin that she can access later on - after hours.

Grooming Tools for that Self-Sufficient Feline

(photo credit: lucky_pics / shutterstock.com)Do you brush your cat? Let me rephrase that. Does your cat let you brush her? Because if she’s longer-haired she should be brushed daily – regardless of how annoyed she becomes with you. And for shorter-haired felines, at least once a week to keep both cat and home, reasonably free from flying fur.But there’s more because beyond ensuring your fluffball looks her very best, brushing out all that loose fur stimulates the natural oils for a healthy, shiny coat and reduces the likelihood of her developing those dread hairballs. Yes, due to how frequently a cat licks and preens her fluffy coat throughout the day, hairballs are not uncommon. At best, they pass through her system and straight into the litter box. More typically, they build in her digestive tract until they’re too large to move through her. At this point, she regurgitates them back up as a slimy mass of hair you’re almost certain to step in. And then there are the extreme cases where the mass grows to become a solid blockage that requires veterinary intervention. So, let’s not let it get to that point.If you’re trying to keep your feline well-groomed but she won’t tolerate brushing for more than a few seconds, what can you do? Don’t give up for starters. Choose to move through the process in increments. Start with gentle brushing in the areas she approves of, then gradually increase the coverage while praising and offering treats along the way. At the same time, build the duration up from just a few seconds to a few minutes.Now, kitty may well have plans for primping that don’t include you. When that’s the case, a little hands-off assistance may be just the ticket and thankfully the pet industry has developed some cat-friendly tools your feline will actually enjoy using.

Viral Pet-Friendly Cruise Now Accepting Larger Dogs

Cruise lovers have long faced the fact that dogs (except service dogs) aren’t allowed to join them on their favorite ships. Luckily, an exciting announcement from Expedia Cruise of West Orlando and Cruise Tails revealed a dog-friendly cruise will set sail in November 2025 on the Margaritaville at Sea Islander. What’s the catch? While the cruise is estimated to include up to 250 canine cruisers, there were strict limitations on which dogs would be allowed to board. Among the restrictions was the fact that only dogs up to 20 lbs (and 18 inches in height) would be allowed on the maiden voyage. On their website, Cruise Tails stressed that this first cruise is a “proof of concept” as the first pet cruise ever. The success of this cruise will have a considerable impact on the future of pet-friendly cruising. Recognizing this, they state that “everything has been planned with an abundance of caution and safety.” They hope that after a successful initial cruise, they will be able to loosen the leash for future trips.   Pet parents were invited to sign up for updates, and in December, the initial round of applications was opened for those whose dogs met their strict requirements. But a new announcement has opened the door for a larger pool of pet-friendly cruise lovers. While large and extra-large dogs are still not eligible to join in on the fun, the weight limit for travelers has been increased to 28 lbs (the 18-inch height still applies). This rule change may seem minor, but it is a game changer for those who share their lives with popular breeds like the Pembroke Welsh Corgi or the French Bulldog. In addition to the weight and height requirements, there are several other rules to consider when determining if your dog is eligible, including: Only dogs 6 months old and older are eligible. All dogs boarding must be up-to-date on their vaccinations, including rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. Dog parents must be able to provide a valid veterinary health certificate issued within 30 days of their sailing date. Dogs must be microchipped or have an approved ID tag, including the dog’s name, cabin number, and valid contact information. Dogs with a history of aggressive behavior toward people or animals are prohibited. The cruise only allows for one dog per cabin. However, larger families may still be able to cruise together if they book multiple cabins, accepting that the dogs will be separated when they turn in for the night. Regardless of the initial restrictions, the cruise is an exciting step forward for pet-friendly travel lovers. Assuming all goes well with this initial trip, it could not only mean future trips with Cruise Tails but also encourage other cruise lines to reconsider their strict no-pets policy. This could be a significant turning point for the travel industry. We can’t wait to hear more updates, not only from Cruise Tails but also from those who will be setting sail! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Overweight Dog? Choose a Tasty CHEW Treat Versus EAT Treat.

(photo credit: moonmovie / shutterstock.com)My dogs love treats. What dog doesn’t, right? But one of mine is older, has slowed down, and therefore become a little paunchy. So, how do you toss something tasty to the other dogs, but throw her a carrot stick? You don’t. You check out some of the non-edible, savory flavored chew treats available on the market, and find one that provides her with the satisfaction of chomping down on something tasty… albeit without the calories that come from consumable treats.Now, there is a definite “wow” factor when you begin this search because you will be faced with myriad options. From those suited to smaller dogs with a discriminating palate, to larger chews designed for pooches who love to gnaw. And don’t get me started on the various flavours. Peanut butter? Yes, please! Of course, who can forget bully sticks with their softer, chewable texture that makes them easy to digest (so yes, consumable) yet a much slower eat compared to the mini, high-calorie options that get gobbled down so quickly.

Dog Walking Injuries are Soaring

Bigger dogs, less discipline, or maybe we're just too busy on our cell phones...

Rescue Dog Goes Viral After Demanding Pets from Owner

There are few things as heartwarming online as a heartwarming pet video, and the internet has once again delivered. This time, it comes in the form of a viral video featuring a rescue dog named Cactus and his irresistible way of demanding cuddles from his dog dad. The short clip was posted by user @cactustherescue and has quickly earned nearly 80,000 likes on Instagram and over 81,000 likes on TikTok. It proves just how much a simple act of affection can resonate deeply with an audience of pet lovers. Since capturing the hearts of thousands of pet lovers, it caught the attention of online publications and news platforms, including Yahoo, AOL, DogTime, and more. With a look of determination on his face and the charm of his adorable puppy eyes, he approaches his dad, pawing gently at him as if asking for something. Eventually, after a little persuasion, he falls back into the cuddle position with his head against his dad’s, melting hearts around the world.

Do Our Pets Experience Phantom Pain?

Studies are helping us understand this neurological phenomenan and what we can do to help our pets post-surgery.

Can Heating Pads Be The Right Solution for Your Aging Pet? Yes!

How to Tell If Your Dog Has a Urinary Tract Infection?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health issue in dogs and, if left untreated, can cause significant discomfort and lead to complications. Recognizing the early signs of a UTI is crucial to ensuring timely veterinary care. A UTI occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract, causing inflammation and infection. While dogs of any age or breed can develop a UTI, female dogs are more prone due to their shorter urethras. Here’s what you need to know about identifying, treating, and preventing UTIs in dogs.Recognizing UTI Symptoms in DogsUTI symptoms can vary, and some may be mistaken for other health conditions, such as bladder stones or kidney disease. Key signs to watch for include:Frequent Urination: If your dog is urinating more often than usual or having accidents indoors, this could indicate an infection.Discomfort and Straining While Urinating: Dogs with a UTI may struggle to urinate, pass only small amounts at a time, or whimper due to pain.Blood in the Urine: A red or pinkish tint in your dog’s urine may suggest an infection or inflammation in the urinary tract.Strong or Unusual Odors: A foul or unusually strong smell in the urine can be a sign of bacterial infection.Excessive Licking: Dogs may lick their genital area frequently to soothe irritation and discomfort.Changes in Behavior: A UTI can make a dog feel generally unwell, leading to lethargy, restlessness, or irritability.Causes and Risk Factors of UTIs in DogsWhile UTIs are primarily caused by bacterial infections, several factors can contribute to their development:Underlying Health Conditions: Dogs with diabetes, kidney disease, or weakened immune systems are at higher risk due to changes in urine composition that promote bacterial growth.Urinary Retention: Holding urine for long periods allows bacteria to multiply, increasing the risk of infection.Bladder Stones: These can create an environment that fosters bacterial infections.Anatomical Abnormalities: Some dogs, particularly females or those with congenital issues, may have structural concerns that make them more prone to UTIs.Poor Hydration: Inadequate water intake leads to concentrated urine, which can encourage bacterial growth.Diagnosis and Treatment of UTIs in DogsIf you suspect your dog has a UTI, prompt veterinary care is essential. The veterinarian will perform a urinalysis to check for infection and may recommend additional tests, such as urine cultures or ultrasounds, to rule out other conditions.Treatment typically involves a course of antibiotics to eliminate the infection. The vet may also recommend increased water intake to help flush bacteria from the urinary tract. If an underlying condition, such as bladder stones or diabetes, is present, additional treatments may be necessary.Preventing UTIs in DogsPreventing UTIs involves maintaining good hygiene and supporting overall urinary health: