Vegan Dog Food? Don't Rule it Out!

Is Your Dog’s Vision Getting Cloudy? It Could Be Cataracts

If you’ve recently noticed your dog is starting to hesitate on the staircase they’ve climbed a thousand times before or bumping into the living room furniture that hasn’t moved in years, it’s only natural to worry. Your heart sinks a little as you wonder what’s wrong with your best friend.These changes can be subtle at first, but they can be a sign of a larger issue with your dog’s vision. One of the most common causes of this kind of gradual change is a condition called cataracts.In this post, I’ll explore what cataracts are, discuss the many reasons they may develop, and help you identify the signs. Most importantly, I’ll share the information you need to give your dog the best possible quality of life.What Are Cataracts?Let’s start with the basics: what exactly are cataracts? Imagine your dog’s eye is a tiny camera, and inside that camera, there’s a lens that focuses light onto the back of the eye to create an image. In a healthy eye, this lens is perfectly clear and allows light to pass through without any obstruction. A cataract is a clouding of the lens.When looking at your dog, the cloudiness may look like a smudge or fog stretching across the eye and covering your view of the iris. This cloudiness is caused by the proteins in the lens clumping together, which prevents light from passing through properly. As the condition progresses, the cloudiness becomes denser, blocking even more light.In the early stages, the cloudiness will cause your dog’s vision to be blurry. However, if it’s allowed to progress to a more advanced stage, it can lead to complete blindness.Cataracts vs. Nuclear SclerosisIf you have a senior dog whose eyes are starting to show a light haze, it’s easy to jump to the conclusion that it’s a cataract. This is a common concern, but it may be an age-related change called nuclear sclerosis.Nuclear sclerosis is a natural hardening of the lens that happens with age, causing the eye to have a hazy, grayish appearance. Unlike cataracts, it typically doesn’t significantly impact their vision. A cataract, on the other hand, is a more opaque, milky-white clouding that limits the passage of light into the eye. Only a veterinarian can tell for sure which one your dog has.Causes of Cataracts in DogsWhile we often associate cataracts with getting older, there are several reasons your dog may develop them (even at a younger age). Understanding the potential causes can help you take preventative steps and, where prevention isn’t possible, to prepare yourself to give your pup the best possible care.Genetic PredispositionOne of the most common factors, and unfortunately not preventable, is your dog’s genetics. Just like in people, some dogs are simply more prone to developing cataracts due to their breed. Breeds like Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, and Siberian Huskies are all at higher risk. If you know your dog’s lineage, it can give you a heads-up and a reason to be extra vigilant about any changes in their eye health, even from a young age.DiabetesThis is a big one. Diabetes is the most common preventable cause of rapidly developing cataracts in dogs. The link is direct and powerful. When a dog has high blood sugar, it affects the chemical makeup of the eye’s lens. This causes it to swell and become cloudy very quickly.Cataracts are often one of the first signs that a dog is suffering from undiagnosed diabetes. If your vet suspects the clouding is from cataracts, they will almost always test for diabetes as well.Injury or Trauma to the EyeA strike to the head, a scratch, or any kind of physical injury to the eye can cause significant damage to its delicate parts, including the lens. This trauma can impact the proteins within the lens, triggering the formation of a cataract. This is why it’s so important to be careful with your dog around things like sharp sticks and other potential hazards, or to use eye protection (like Rex Specs Goggles) when most at risk. Other Potential Causes While less common, there are other factors that can also contribute to the formation of cataracts. Chronic inflammation inside the eye, a condition known as uveitis, can damage the lens over time. In rare cases, especially in puppies, nutritional deficiencies can play a role, with the lens failing to develop properly. Ultimately, like with people, some cataracts are simply a part of the natural aging process, a gradual change that can happen to any dog as they get older. Warning Signs to Watch Out For Noticing that something might be wrong with your dog’s vision usually starts with subtle changes in their behavior. They can’t tell you that their vision is blurry, but their body language can help communicate that something is happening. Subtle Behavioral Changes These are often the earliest cues. You may notice your once active dog starts to hesitate before jumping onto their favorite spot on the couch or going up and down the stairs. They may seem a little confused, especially in new or dimly lit environments, possibly bumping into furniture or bumping into door frames that they use to navigate without any problems. You may also see a change in their play, as they stop engaging in their favorite games like fetch or struggle to catch treats when tossed their way. Sometimes a dog may become more anxious or clingy when their vision starts to change, especially if they are in an unfamiliar space. Physical Signs of Cataracts in DogsIn addition to behavioral changes, especially as the condition escalates, you may be able to see physical signs in your dog’s eyes. This is why many veterinarians recommend that dog parents do regular eye checks at home, helping them catch subtle changes early. When looking into your dog’s eye, look for a noticeable cloudy, milky-white, or bluish-gray appearance in one or both pupils. One or both pupils may not look as dark or black as they used to. While a hazy look can be a sign of nuclear sclerosis, a dense, opaque white appearance is a stronger indicator of a true cataract.

What are Sebacious Cysts and Should You Be Worried?

Lumps, bumps, warts, and more... when should you raise the alarm?

Cats Recognize Their Owner's Scent, Study Suggests

Here’s something every cat lover probably suspected but never had the science to prove—until now. Your cat knows exactly what you smell like.A new study out of Tokyo University of Agriculture has found that domestic cats can tell the difference between the scent of their beloved human and that of a total stranger. And how do they show it? By giving the unknown smell the extra sniff test.Researchers conducted a pretty straightforward experiment. They rounded up 30 feline participants and presented them with three tubes. One held a cotton swab rubbed with their owner's scent (gathered from under the armpit, behind the ear, and between the toes), another had the smell of a stranger of the same sex, and the third was a clean, scentless control.So what did the cats do? They barely showed any interest in the tube that smelled like their human. But the unfamiliar scent? That one got the full sniff-and-investigate treatment.The researchers say this shows cats can distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar people based on scent. But it doesn’t necessarily mean they can pick you out of a lineup based on smell alone. In other words, they’re not quite at police-sniffer-dog levels yet.Lead author Hidehiko Uchiyama explained it like this: “The odour stimuli used in this study were only those of known and unknown persons. We still need more behavioral experiments with multiple known-person scents to figure out if cats can really identify a specific individual.”Translation: It’s one thing for your cat to say, “Hey, this is familiar,” and another for them to say, “Ah, yes, this is definitely Steve from Apartment 4B who feeds me chicken treats.”This isn’t the first time science has looked at the mysterious ways cats recognize us. Earlier research has shown that cats can distinguish human voices, read our facial expressions, and even pick up on emotional cues through our body language and smell.The Tokyo team also noticed something else kind of interesting: after giving those unfamiliar swabs a thorough whiff, many cats rubbed their faces on the tubes. Cat owners will recognize this move—it’s scent-marking. So the sniffing might be part of a bigger process of cats getting familiar with new things in their environment.But not everyone’s ready to crown cats as scent detectives just yet. Serenella d’Ingeo, a researcher from the University of Bari who studies animal behavior (but wasn’t involved in this study), had a few notes of caution. She pointed out that we still don’t know how cats are feeling when they’re sniffing these tubes. Are they curious? Cautious? Grossed out? Hard to say.Plus, because the samples were presented by the cats’ own humans, who were standing right there smelling like themselves, there’s a chance the cats were even more interested in the new smells just because of the context. “Of course,” d’Ingeo said, “if owners present other odours that are different from their personal one, in a way they engage the cat more.”Still, the researchers concluded that yes, cats do use their noses to tell us apart from others. So next time, your feline roommate gives you a sniff and a head bump, take it as a compliment. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Hurricane Katrina Became the Catalyst for Better Emergency Planning

The resistance of residents to leave their pets behind created a whirlwind of acts designed to help pets and their parents weather these types of natural disasters.

What Are Signs of Illness in Pet Turtles?

Turtles are unique and fascinating pets, valued for their calm demeanor and long lifespans. However, one challenge that turtle owners face is detecting illness early. In the wild, turtles instinctively hide signs of weakness to avoid predators. As a result, pet turtles often show only subtle symptoms when they are unwell.Becoming familiar with your turtle’s normal behavior, appetite, and appearance is essential. Early identification of illness greatly improves the chances of successful treatment, so here are the key signs to watch for.Changes in AppetiteA sudden loss of appetite is often one of the earliest and most noticeable signs of illness. Healthy turtles typically eat with enthusiasm, especially when offered favored foods.If a turtle begins refusing meals, particularly favorite treats, it should be taken seriously. While minor fluctuations in appetite can occur due to changes in temperature or environment, persistent refusal to eat may signal infections, digestive issues, or stress.

Dog Stick Libraries... They Really Are a Thing

For stick-loving dogs, the opportunity to pick his favorite size, shape, and weight of timber, is bringing the fun back to leash-free parks.

Top 5 Toys That Truly Make Your Dog Happy

Dogs, like people, have their own preferences and personalities, but there’s one thing almost all dogs have in common: they love to play. Playtime isn’t just fun; it provides essential mental stimulation, physical exercise, and a great opportunity for bonding. But with aisles of toys to choose from, which ones are actually the most enjoyable for your pup?Let’s explore the top categories of toys that make dogs happiest, and how to pick the best one for your furry friend.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

How to Stop Your Dog from Watching You While You Eat

Most dog owners are familiar with the feeling of being watched during meals. The steady gaze, the quiet presence, and the hopeful expression are all part of a behavior that can become a daily challenge. Some dog owners might not mind it, but, for others, it can make mealtimes less enjoyable. With a few adjustments and consistent training, you can help your dog learn to give you space while you eat.

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

Fall Activities for Dogs!

With cooler temperatures, this is the best time of year to take the pooch for a long walk, engage in outdoor activity, or simply snuggle in at home.

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. 

Budget-Friendly DIY Rabbit Enrichment Ideas for Every Bunny Parent

As a dedicated rabbit parent, your commitment to providing the very best for your furry companion is undeniable. You want them to thrive, not just survive. That is where the world of mental enrichment comes in. But why is it that when you walk the aisles of your local pet store, all the enrichment toys and products seem to be made for dogs and cats? The good news is that providing excellent enrichment doesn’t require special toys or a hefty budget. In fact, many of the most engaging toys and activities for your bunny can be created using items you have lying around your home. In this post, I’ll explain why enrichment is so important for your rabbit’s overall well-being and share a list of fun, budget-friendly ideas that will have your bunny hopping with joy in no time! When Enrichment Matters for Your BunnyWe often see trends or buzzwords pop up in the pet space, trying to convince us that something is important or necessary for our furry family members. But enrichment is more than that… It is truly a game-changer for your rabbit’s health and happiness. Here’s why: Mimicking Natural Behaviors In the wild, rabbits are high-energy creatures and are constantly on the move. They spend much of their time foraging for food, exploring their surroundings, digging intricate networks of burrows, and interacting with their environment. These aren’t just random activities; they are deeply ingrained instincts. Domestication, while providing these sweet pets with a safe and comfortable home, often limits these outlets. Confined to enclosures, even spacious ones, our pet rabbits can miss out on the mental and physical stimulation they would enjoy from these natural behaviors. By recognizing this, we can find ways to replicate these opportunities and provide safe outlets to fulfill these instinctual needs within the safety of their own home (your home). Combating Boredom and Stress Like us, our rabbits can experience boredom when they aren’t given sufficient stimulation. This lack of mental engagement can lead to a variety of negative behaviors and signs of stress. Signs of bunny boredom include: Excessive grooming, sometimes to the point of creating bald patches Lethargy Lack of interest in their surroundings Sitting hunched in a ball Persistent chewing on cage bars or inappropriate household itemsDigging in their enclosure or beddingRepetitive, seemingly aimless pacing or restlessness Out-of-character escape attempts Making a grunting noise Aggressive behaviors, including nipping or biting Enrichment provides crucial mental stimulation, offering them entertainment, puzzles to solve, new scents and textures to explore, and challenges to overcome. This reduces their boredom and promotes a calmer, more content mindset. Promoting Better Physical Health We often discuss the mental health implications of enrichment, but it also plays a vital role in promoting physical health. Encouraging movement and activity helps prevent the development of obesity, a common and growing serious health concern in domestic rabbits (and, quite honestly, nearly all pets in the US). Regular activity can be encouraged by providing enrichment opportunities, like exploring tunnels, hopping over obstacles, and reaching for hanging treats, all of which help keep their muscles strong and their cardiovascular system healthy. Some enrichment items contribute to your rabbit’s dental. A rabbit’s teeth continuously grow. In the wild, they wear down their teeth by chewing on grasses, hay, and other abrasive surfaces, but not all food provided to domesticated rabbits will fill this need. You can provide your bunny with safe and appropriate items to chew on, such as untreated wood or cardboard, to meet this need and prevent painful dental issues. Strengthening the Human-Animal Bond Engaging in enrichment activities with your rabbit is a great way to spend quality time together and strengthen that all-too-special human-animal bond. When you take the time to create a new puzzle toy, design a foraging box, or simply observe and interact with your rabbit as they explore their enrichment environment, you’re building trust and deepening your connection. Watching their curiosity and problem-solving skills in action is not only rewarding for you but also creates positive associations with your presence. These shared moments of play and discovery are a great way to boost your relationship and build the long-lasting bond we all want to enjoy with our furry family members. DIY Enrichment Ideas: Foraging Fun Foraging is a deeply ingrained natural behavior for rabbits, extending beyond simply searching for their food. In the wild, rabbits will spend much of their day searching for, selecting, and acquiring their meals. This process is highly stimulating, engaging many senses, including smell, sight, and touch. It also helps to keep their minds actively engaged. By providing opportunities for foraging in their home environment, we can tap into these instincts and give our bunnies crucial mental enrichment. Here are a few ways to create foraging opportunities at home: Treat Balls/RollersTurn simple cardboard tubes, such as those from toilet paper or paper towels, into engaging treat dispensers. Cut a few small holes in the tube and place hay or small, healthy treats inside. When given to your bunny, they will need to nudge, roll, and manipulate the tube to release the tasty rewards. Of course, you should always prioritize safety. If you are using glue, do so sparingly, or simply fold the ends of the tubes to securely keep the goodies contained. Hay Boxes/Digging Boxes Repurpose larger cardboard boxes to create stimulating digging and burrowing opportunities. Fill these boxes with rabbit-friendly textures like loose hay, shredded plain paper, or safe, untreated soil. This provides both physical activity and a chance to tap into their natural sense of curiosity and exploration. Different textures also offer a more satisfying tactile experience. Cardboard Castles/Tunnels Encourage exploration and discovery by creating simple structures from larger cardboard boxes. By cutting openings and connecting boxes, you can build tunnels, hiding spots, and multi-room “castles” that offer a change of scenery and opportunities for your rabbit to hop through, hide, and feel secure. Is your rabbit hesitant to explore their new fort? Consider using small treats to create a trail guiding them through the space. Once they have checked out and seen every corner, they will be far more likely to embrace their new castle.

More than Half of Pet Owners are Skipping Veterinary Care

Both cat and dog owners have started to skip necessary veterinary care for their pets. A national survey has found that more than half of pet owners, including those in high-earning households, have skipped necessary veterinary care or declined recommended treatment mainly because of the cost.According to the survey, conducted by PetSmart Charities and Gallup, seven in 10 owners who skipped or declined care listed cost as the main reason, saying they couldn’t afford the treatment or didn’t think it was worth the cost. What’s worrisome is that the results were surprisingly similar across all income levels. “There’s a narrative that says that this only affects folks in the bottom part of the income spectrum,” said PetSmart Charities President Aimee Gilbreath. “But it’s all across the spectrum. That surprised me - and it worries me. If folks in the top half are struggling to afford primary vet care, who can afford vet care now?”The State of Pet Care report found that vet care costs in the U.S. have risen more than 60% since 2014, forcing many pet parents to decline recommended treatments for their pets.“At least 60% of households have a pet, and people love them as family members,” said Gilbreath. “We don’t think they should be a luxury item. They are good for people’s mental, physical, and emotional health, and if it becomes unaffordable, that’s really a sad situation.” The survey of 2,498 adults owning at least one cat or dog discovered that 52% of pet owners have skipped or declined veterinary care at some point in the past. The most commonly declined veterinary services were diagnostic procedures (22%), vaccinations (18%), and elective surgeries (16%). However, 11% admitted they have declined recommended medication, and 7% said they have refused life-saving surgeries. Of those who declined care, 71% of owners listed cost as the main reason. Although that response was the highest among owners with a household income between $36,000 and $60,000, nearly two-thirds of those earning $90,000 or more said the same. Researchers found that for those with higher incomes, declining care wasn’t just a matter of affordability. Only a third of owners earning $90,000 or more said they couldn’t afford the cost, compared to 44% of owners who said the cost wasn’t worth it. According to Gilbreath, the dramatic increase in veterinary costs over a short time period is to blame. “We’re in a time when families are really stretched, and unexpected expenses like a big vet bill are hard to manage,” she added.As a result, animal shelters across the country are experiencing an influx of pet owners surrendering their pets due to their inability to afford veterinary care. While financial troubles are forcing many pet parents to decline veterinary care, 73% of parents said they weren’t presented with more affordable options. The survey found that providing payment plan options would make a huge difference for many pet owners. More than half of the respondents said they couldn’t afford to spend more than $1,000 if their pet had a life-threatening condition. But if given a one-year, no-interest option, most said that would double what they could pay. “We would love to see options like 18-month, interest-free financing,” said Gilbreath. “More vets are starting to offer options, but it’s relatively new.”Owners facing financial constraints should talk with their vets about possible treatment alternatives or payment options that meet their needs. Don’t forget that affordable veterinary care is often available through community non-profit organizations and animal shelters.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Simple Tricks to Get Your Pet to Take Their Meds

Let’s face it, for most pet parents, the moment the veterinarian prescribes medication for your beloved dog or cat, a little voice inside you whispers (or screams), “Oh no!” You’re not alone! Many of us (myself included, in the past) have engaged in a strategic chase around the living room, a tiny pill clutched in our hand. But rest assured, it doesn’t have to be that difficult. While it can feel like navigating an impossible challenge, there are effective and less stressful ways to help your pets take their medicine, whether it comes in the form of a pill, a liquid, or a powder. In this post, I am going to share some simple tricks and techniques I have learned that have proven to be effective in my house. By mastering these tricks, you can set yourself up for success, making prioritizing your pet’s health and well-being easier than ever. Why Is Giving Medication to a Pet So Challenging?Have you ever wondered why your sweet and loving best friend suddenly becomes a master of evasion the moment medication comes into the picture? There are several reasons why our pets put up such a fight. Taste and Smell: Many medications simply don’t taste or smell very good to our pets. Some can even be quite bitter or have an unfamiliar smell that triggers a natural dislike and aversion. Instincts: Our pets are descendants of their wild ancestors, who were hardwired with instincts to help them survive. For this reason, they are naturally wary of anything new, different, or unusual in their routine, especially something offered by hand. Negative Past Experiences: If your pet has had a negative experience with medications in the past, such as force or discomfort, this can create a lasting association of fear and resistance with the taking of medication in general. Stress and Anxiety: The act of being handled or restrained can trigger feelings of stress and anxiety in some animals, making them even less likely to cooperate. Side Effects: It’s important to remember that some medications may cause physical discomfort or side effects. If this is the case, it can make them more reluctant to take that medication again (understandably). As pet parents, dealing with this resistance can be physically and emotionally draining. We want to help our pets feel better, and it can be disheartening when those efforts are met with struggle or upset. But putting ourselves in their shoes for a moment can help us identify the reason why they are so reluctant to take their medications, helping us overcome these hurdles. Setting Yourself Up for Success The process of effectively giving your pet medication starts with careful preparation. Think of it like laying the groundwork for an overall smoother experience. Here are a few things to consider: Communication with Your Vet Before you even attempt to give your pet their medication, make sure you clearly understand your vet's instructions. This includes asking the following questions: Dosage: What is the exact amount of medication you are supposed to give your pet each time?Frequency: How often must the medication be given throughout the day?Timing: Does the medication need to be given at a specific time? Does it need to be given with food or on an empty stomach? If you have multiple medications, can they be given at the same time? Don’t hesitate to ask your vet what formulations and options are available. Every pet is different, and you may find that yours is more accepting of one form of medication than another. For example, there may be a flavored liquid instead of a pill, or even alternatives to the medication altogether. Ask about any side effects your pet may experience and how best to manage them. Knowing this in advance can help you get relief for your pet far quicker, as you can respond immediately versus trying to determine if the side effect is, in fact, associated with the medication and how to address it. Most importantly, remember this golden rule: never change the dosage or stop giving medication without discussing it with your vet (unless, of course, you are facing a severe reaction). Some medicines, like antibiotics, must be given for a set length of time to be effective. Stopping a medication because your pet appears to be getting better could set them back long-term. Be Calm and OrganizedThe environment and your energy will both play a significant role in your pet’s willingness to cooperate. Choose a calm, quiet, and familiar space in your home where your pet will feel safe and secure. Where possible, try to avoid any distractions or interruptions. Before introducing your pet into the equation, take time to gather all the needed supplies. This includes the medication itself, any treats you plan to use, and applicators like oral syringes if required. Having all of these items within reach will keep the process as quick and efficient as possible, helping to reduce your pet’s stress. When gathering them for medication time, avoid approaching them in a rushed or stressed manner, as they will likely pick up on your emotions. Instead, try to stay calm and offer a reassuring presence to calm any fears or concerns they may have. The Art of PillingWhen it comes to giving your pet pills, the goal is to make the process as stress-free and palatable as possible. Luckily, there are several clever strategies you can use to make the process quicker and easier for everyone involved. The Pill Pocket One of the most popular and often successful tricks is using “pill pockets.” These are commercially available treats designed with a hollow center to conceal a pill. The idea being that the pet is so excited to take the treat that they don’t even notice they are taking a pill at the same time. There are many different brands and flavors available, depending on your pet’s preferences, such as the Presidio Pill Buddy Naturals, which comes in a tempting “Tender Grilled Duck” flavor, or the popular salmon flavour of Greenies Feline Pill Pockets. An interesting product, and a spin on the “pill pocket” approach, that we have been using recently in our house is the Vetality Twist + Lick Simpill Gel. This looks almost like a deodorant container, but a flavored gel comes up when you twist the bottom. You simply place the pills in the gel and allow your dog to help themselves. It comes in beef, chicken, and peanut butter. Hiding in FoodAnother common tactic is to hide the pill within a small amount of a soft, highly palatable food. Common choices include tiny pieces of cooked chicken or turkey, a small cube of cheese, a dab of tuna (in water, not oil), or a smear of xylitol-free peanut butter. But don’t overdo it. The goal here is to use only a small amount of the food so you can guarantee that your pet eats the entire medicated portion in one go and doesn’t just eat around the pill. I recommend not hiding pills in your pet’s regular food bowl, especially if they are fighting the pilling process. Otherwise, you may create a negative association with their regular food, leading to them turning their nose up at the usual dinners. One useful trick that helps to leave your pet with a positive feeling about the process is to deliver the medicated food in a “treat sandwich” approach. First, give them a piece of the food entirely unmedicated, then a piece containing the pill, and finally another plain piece as a reward.

What to Do If Your Dog Is Behaving Aggressively

If your dog is showing signs of aggression, it can be scary and confusing. But the good news is that you’re not alone, and there are plenty of ways to handle it. Let’s walk through what to do if your dog is acting out aggressively.

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.

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.

Should I Be Worried About My Dog Eating Dirt?

Have you ever been out enjoying a peaceful walk or watching your pup play in the backyard, only to witness them suddenly nose-dive into the soil and… start eating it? That immediate feeling of disgust (who eats dirt, eww) is usually followed by a wave of concern. Ultimately, you’re left wondering why your dog would engage in such a seemingly unappetizing habit.You’re not alone! It’s a question that has likely crossed the minds of countless dedicated dog parents. Why? Because this “dirty” habit (see what I did there) is more common than you think!In this post, I will shed light on why dogs eat dirt, the potential risks associated with this habit, help you understand when it’s an unpleasant quirk versus a cause for concern, and most importantly, offer some tips and tricks to help keep your pup safe. Because when it comes to our dogs, peace of mind is priceless!Understanding Your Dog’s Motivation for Eating DirtWhen we see our dogs consuming dirt, it’s natural to immediately wonder why. This seemingly strange behavior, eating non-food items, actually has a scientific name: pica. While occasional dirt-licking might be harmless, chronic pica, where a dog regularly or obsessively eats dirt, can be a sign of underlying physical or behavioral issues that must be addressed. It’s not just about a dirty mouth; it could be a red flag that there’s something bigger at play.Nutritional DeficienciesFor a long time, the most common explanation for dogs eating dirt was a perceived nutritional deficiency. More specifically, many people believed it was a lack of essential minerals like iron. The idea was that dogs instinctively seek out what their bodies are missing. Therefore, if they are missing iron, they will look to eat something that will supply the missing mineral.While this can be a factor, it’s generally less common for dogs fed a high-quality, complete, and balanced commercial dog food. These foods are meticulously formulated to provide all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients a dog needs. So, while it’s a possibility, it’s often not the primary culprit.Behavior Roots of Dirt EatingMore often than not, the reasons behind eating dirt are behavioral. Just like humans, dogs can exhibit a range of behaviors that may seem “off” or out of character due to their emotional and mental states.Boredom and lack of stimulation: Dogs are highly intelligent creatures who need physical and mental enrichment. If your dog isn’t getting enough walks, playtime, or interactive toys, they may eat dirt to entertain themselves. It’s a novel texture, a different smell, and an activity to occupy their time.Anxiety and stress: Just like some people chew their nails when they are feeling nervous, some dogs develop coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety. Eating dirt can be a repetitive, self-soothing behavior for dogs experiencing separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, or other environmental stressors.Curiosity and exploration: This is especially true for young puppies. The world is a brand-new place, and puppies explore everything with their mouths. Dirt offers fascinating smells, textures, and tastes that they may be investigating out of pure curiosity, similar to how human toddlers put everything in their mouths.Attention-seeking behavior: Let’s be honest; seeing your dog eat dirt usually triggers a strong reaction from you. Perhaps you gasp loudly, quickly dash to stop them, or call out a firm “no!” If a dog learns that eating dirt gets them immediate attention, even if it’s negative attention, they might repeat the behavior just to get you to engage with them.Instinctual behavior: While highly domesticated, dogs still possess some primal instincts passed down from their wild ancestors. Wild dogs might ingest small amounts of dirt or soil to aid digestion, firm up loose stools, or perhaps even obtain trace minerals. However, this instinct is far less relevant for most modern house dogs and generally a thing of the past.Tummy TroublesSometimes eating dirt is a sign of underlying gastrointestinal problems. Just like dogs sometimes eat grass when they have an upset stomach or feel nauseous, they might also ingest dirt. They could be attempting to soothe an irritated digestive tract, induce vomiting to relieve discomfort, or simply looking for something to help them feel better. If your dog suddenly starts eating dirt and seems to be experiencing stomach issues, it’s a strong sign that their digestive system might be trying to tell you something.Tasty TemptationsOf course, there is always the possibility that something enticing is tempting them to dive in for a taste. Take a moment to consider the area from which your dog is snagging the dirt. Is there a reason they may believe the dirt could be delicious? For example, if you recently fertilized the garden, the scent of manure could be drawing your pup in.The Risks: When Dirt Eating Can Be DangerousWhile a casual lick of dirt might seem harmless, this habit could easily cross the line into much more concerning territory. Consistent or extensive dirt eating carries a long list of potential dangers for your pup.Gastrointestinal Blockages and ObstructionsOne of the most immediate and serious concerns when a dog eats dirt is the risk of a blockage or obstruction in their gastrointestinal tract. It’s not just the dirt itself; it’s often what’s mixed in with the dirt that leads to trouble. Small stones, pebbles, sticks, plastic pieces, or other debris can easily be ingested along with the soil. These non-digestible items can accumulate in the stomach or intestines, leading to a partial or complete blockage.This is a veterinary emergency that often requires surgical intervention. If not addressed, it can quickly turn life-threatening. Watch out for symptoms such as:Persistent vomitingLethargy and weaknessLoss of appetiteAbdominal pain or tendernessStraining to defecate or inability to pass waste