Ways to Celebrate National Love Your Pet Day

Celebrate “National Get a Pal for Your Pet Day” On November 19 [Vi

It’s the perfect day to consider adopting a pal for your pet PetGuide.com is dedicating the month of November to multiple pet ownership and we were thrilled to hear that “National Get a Pal for Your Pet Day” is on Tuesday, November 19. A Pets Add Life (PAL) initiative, National Get a Pal for Your Pet Day was created to celebrate multiple pet ownership and consider welcoming additional pets into the home. According to American Pet Products Association’s (APPA) 2013/2014 National Pet Owners Survey, multiple pet ownership is at an all-time high with 44 percent of pet-owning households in the U.S. owning more than one pet (up from 42 percent of households in 2010). “This designated day is a great opportunity to help spread the message that, like humans, pets also need pals and companionship when owners are away from home,” said Bob Vetere, APPA President & CEO. “Pets Add Life is all about promoting responsible pet ownership and we truly encourage current owners to consider welcoming additional pets of all types into the home.” If you’ve never heard of PAL before, it’s an amazing non-profit campaign founded by the APPA that helps spread the joys and benefits of responsible pet ownership and encourages increased animal adoption. We think it’s a wonderful idea and encourage you to think about bringing home an additional furry, feathered or finned pal home. And because we’re huge fans of PAL’s creative and hilarious videos, we thought we add the latest for you, entitled “Mouse Rover,” to enjoy. Watch it below!

You Give Love a Bad Name: 8 Ways NOT To Love Your Pet

We don’t know why Love Your Pet Day isn’t a national holiday, but it should be! And we want to take this opportunity to make sure you’re giving your pet the right kind of love. It’s Love Your Pet Day, you may want to give your pet extra tender, loving care. But not all tokens of affection are what they may seem. Here are eight ways not to love your pet today or any other day: 1) Feeding table scraps No matter how much your pet begs for a piece of lunch meat or a bite of your hot dog, resist the temptation to feed your pet treats from the dinner table. People food just isn’t formulated for pets and therefore is much less nutritious and obesity-promoting. It can also become a bad habit to try to break, and you may catch your pet sneaking food off your counter or drinking from your glass when your back is turned. In addition, some table foods are downright dangerous for your pet. If you’re looking to give a treat, purchase one made specifically for your kind of pet. 2) Feeding too much Whether you’re giving too many treats or keeping the food bowls in front of your pet all day long, many animals are fed too much. It may be your pet isn’t getting as much exercise as is needed for her intake, or perhaps your pet eats to stave off boredom while you’re at work. There are many reasons why your pet may overeat, but it’s clear that doing so can lead to a weight problem and, with that, a lot of otherwise preventable health concerns. Rather, keep the food bowl out of sight until a specified feeding time unless your veterinarian recommends otherwise. 3) Skipping the veterinary visits Few pets like going to the vet, but just like me and you have to go to the doctor for regular check-ups, all pets should have regular check-ups with their veterinarian. There are so many deadly, yet completely preventable, diseases that can be prevented through vaccinations, regular blood labs, and general monitoring of health. Even for pets who live all their lives inside the house, regular visits to the veterinarian can help curb some issues — like weight gain, growths, or dental needs — before it’s too late. Make an appointment for your pet today. 4) Not disciplining Just like with parents and their children, our pets need structure and boundaries — it’s an inherent part of that pet-owner relationship. Your cat needs to know it’s not OK to jump on the counter or to lick the butter, and your dog needs to learn to urinate outside and that pillows aren’t chew toys. It’s easy to misunderstand disciplining as less than loving, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, it’s never OK to strike your pet, withhold food, or use excessive crating as punishment. Understanding your animal’s natural behavior, giving treats as rewards for ideal behavior, and using gentle discipline techniques such as force-free training are ethical as well as effective. Ask your veterinarian about a local pet behaviorist or pet training school if you need help learning how to discipline your pet or have an unresolved issue needing more expert attention. 5) Playing doll Who doesn’t love cute dog or cat sweaters? While it doesn’t hurt to love our pets like our children, it’s important to not treat them exactly like babies. Pets who spend much of their time dolled up and riding in strollers may not complain — if they don’t seem to like it, then don’t do it — but they also aren’t getting the exercise they need to stay healthy. And a dog wearing a sweater on a hot day could overheat. So, go ahead and dress up your pet if he allows you to, but encourage him to walk to the park rather than always hitch a ride in the stroller. That said, strollers are great for very young, elderly, or disabled animals. And sweaters are needed for certain hairless breeds in cooler climates. Just don’t overuse either if you don’t have to. 6) Overusing the crate Crates are very useful tools for the dog owner, and many dogs come to see their crates as their safe haven. But it’s important to use the crate just as it is intended, whether for sleeping, riding in the car, or another reason — and never as punishment. Crates for dogs aren’t the same as a tank for a turtle or a cage for a parakeet. They need more time out than in, not only to get enough exercise but to be just what they were meant to be…your companion! Limit puppy crate time to four hours at a time. While adult dogs can hold their bladders for longer, overnight is the longest duration they should be in a crate. 7) Mismatching lifestyles All new pet owners have to make some adjustments to their lifestyle to accommodate their pet’s needs to be fed, watered, walked, and cleaned-up-after. But certain breeds of all pets need certain extra requirements, and not all lifestyles work for all pets. For example, a high-energy border collie needs room to run and just isn’t the best fit for an apartment. Likewise, the delicate-ribbed chinchilla isn’t the best fit for small children who want to cuddle. Be sure to do your homework before deciding on your kind or breed of pet. 8) Not using a collar It can take awhile for a pet, especially cats, to get used to wearing a collar. And you may not think your house cat needs to darn one all the time, but if your pet should slip outside without a collar and tags, it could be very difficult to find your pet if he would become lost. Ideally pets live indoors, but if you have an outside cat or dog, a collar is a must. Collars are just a good all-around, inexpensive preventative measure to ensuring the best chance of your pet coming home again.

Celebrating National Dress Your Pet Up Day With Some Celebrity Pets

Did you know that January 14 is National Dress Your Pet Up Day? Well, it is…and we decided to share some pics of our favorite Instagram Celebri-Pets in their oh-so-stylish (and hilarious) duds! Chloe The MiniFrenchie definitely knows how to give a bit of ooh-la-la to the everyday Troll look, and also makes it known she’s all about including all during the holidays!

It's National Puppy Day–Here Are 3 Meaningful Ways You Can Celebrate

It’s not like we needed a dedicated National Puppy Day to share some love for these tiny, cute bundles of fur, but it sure doesn’t hurt to have an official day to celebrate all things puppies! Founded in 2006, March 23rd, by an animal rescuer and pet lifestyle expert, Colleen Paige, this holiday is, however, not just about gushing over adorable puppies of all shapes and sizes. Its main goal is to raise awareness about the horrors of the puppy mill industry and get a single message loud across – adopt, don’t shop. Related: 6 Ways Your Life Will Change When You Adopt A DogAccording to the Humane Society, the estimated number of puppies sold annually who originated from puppy mills is around 3.3 million puppies – a staggering number. Having in mind that puppies that hail from these horrifying places are often sick and abused, any number is too great, but those in the millions definitely give cause for alarm to any pet lover. This is why it’s essential to instill the importance of making educated and humane choices when wanting to introduce a new pet to the family – and what better day to do that than National Puppy Day, a one day a year that’s solely about adopting puppies and giving these fur babies a second chance at a happy life?Related: 10 Signs Your Dog is From a Puppy MillEven though this holiday had its start in the US, it is observed all over the world, mainly on social media with the hashtag to help spread the word and drive home the message that adoption should be the primary choice of any dog lover. But is logging onto social media and sharing a cute puppy post all you can for National Puppy Day? If you are able and willing, there are more meaningful ways to celebrate this pooch-inspired holiday – here are the 3 best ones. #1 Donate to a Local ShelterIt doesn’t have to be a big chunk of your budget to matter – even the most modest of donations can immensely help shelters and rescues continue with all the good work they do. Even better, you can use your social media platform to motivate your friends and family to donate too! #2 Volunteer or FosterYou might not be able to offer financial help, but sometimes, it’s your time and effort that could be even more valuable. Shelters and dog rescue organizations are always in need of volunteers and/or foster families to help lighten the load, improve the quality of life for the dogs in their care, and help get them to their final goal – finding a forever home for their wards.#3 Open Your Heart and Home to a Rescue PuppyThe best thing you can do, not just on National Puppy Day, but any other day of the week is to make sure that the message of the holiday lives on by adopting instead of buying a dog. An estimated 1.5 million cats and dogs get euthanized in shelters across the US each year, and even in no-kill shelters, some four-legged angels wait for months, if not years to find a home. Why not get a best friend for life and save a life in the process?

Are Bernedoodles High Maintenance?

Bernedoodles – a delightful mix of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles – have skyrocketed in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. They’re charming, intelligent, playful, and often sport hypoallergenic coats that make them ideal companions for many dog lovers. But are these lovable hybrids high-maintenance pets? While Bernedoodles aren’t the most demanding breed, they do have specific needs when it comes to grooming, exercise, and mental stimulation. Here’s everything you need to know to decide if a Bernedoodle fits your lifestyle.Grooming: A Must for That Gorgeous CoatOne of the first questions potential owners ask is whether Bernedoodles’ grooming needs are overwhelming. These dogs typically have low-shedding coats, ranging from wavy to curly, but that doesn’t mean they’re entirely fuss-free. Without regular maintenance, their fur can easily mat, leading to discomfort and skin issues.Brushing: Aim to brush your Bernedoodle’s coat 2–3 times a week to keep it tidy and tangle-free. Investing in a high-quality grooming kit can make the task much easier.

How Do I Keep My Cat Warm This Winter?

Winter weather can be harsh for our feline friends, even those with the luxury of spending the cold winter months indoors. As temperatures drop and the wind howls, it’s crucial to ensure your cat stays warm and cozy. After all, you wouldn’t want your best friend to be uncomfortable!In this guide, I’ll share practical tips and tricks to keep your cat comfortable during the colder months. These steps will help your kitty feel warm and toasty, from providing cozy nooks to adjusting their diet.Plus, I’ll explore tips for keeping your cat warm while traveling in winter to help you prepare for the upcoming holiday season.What is the Ideal Temperature for Cats? Cats naturally have a higher body temperature than humans do. A healthy adult cat’s temperature should be between 100.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. As a result of this, they tend to prefer warmer temperatures than we would. This is great in the summer months but can make it challenging to keep your best friend comfortable during the colder temperatures of the winter. A healthy cat is happies in temperatures between 77 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. During the cooler months, an adult cat can adjust comfortably to temperatures as low as 59 degrees Fahrenheit. But this can vary if your cat is a young kitten or senior, as their tolerance isn’t as high. There are also several medical conditions that may make your cat more sensitive to cold temperatures, including diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, Cushing’s disease, and some forms of cancer. If your cat is living with joint pain or similar conditions, the colder winter temperatures may also cause them to experience more aches and pains. Signs You Cat is Feeling Cold Recognizing when your cat is starting to feel chilly will help you make the necessary adjustments to keep them comfortable. It would be so helpful if our cats couple talk to us in English, letting us know how they feel and what they need. Unfortunately, that’s not reality. As cat parents, we must become masters of non-verbal communication including body language and behavioral changes. Some of the more common signs your cat is feeling cold include: ShiveringBreathing slowlySlower heart rateCurling up into a ballHunching down close to the groundExtremities cold to the touch (ears, paws, tail)Lack of activityAppearing confused or disoriented Muscle stiffness Weakness Seeking warm spots in the houseThe sooner you recognize that your cat is feeling cold, the faster you can respond and make sure they are feeling comfortable. This is also key to preventing cold-related medical conditions and complications like hypothermia. Take steps to warm up if you notice any of the above warning signs. If you are trying to warm your cat up and they are still showing signs they are cold, contact your veterinarian. 8 Tips to Keep Your Cat Warm This Winter As cat parents, we love our cats and want to give them the best possible quality of life. With that in mind, we need to find ways to keep them warm and cozy even when the temperatures drop. If your furnace is running all winter keeping the temperatures within their ideal temperature range, this may not be a problem you need to worry about. However, in many parts of the United States, keeping the temperatures in your house over 77 degrees Fahrenheit can be quite costly! Plus, there are those of us who use alternative heating sources like baseboard heating and woodstoves that can make it challenging to keep all areas of the home at the temperatures your cat would prefer. If you’re concerned your cat may be feeling a little chilly, here are a few steps you can take to help keep them cozy: Stick to Indoors Do you have a cat that indoors spending time outdoors? While I am a huge fan of safe outdoor adventures with my furry family members (camping, hiking, etc.), there are times when it is better to stick to the more comfortable environment indoors. This isn’t to say your cat can’t enjoy some on-leash time exploring the ice and snow. My one cat, Pippen, adores playing in the snow. But it’s our responsibility as cat parents to keep an eye on the temperatures and limit their time outdoors when it could be unsafe. Offer Warm and Cozy Bedding One of the easiest ways to keep your cat comfortable is by offering extra bedding to allow them to snuggle in and create a cozy place to nap. There are several great options to consider, depending on your cat’s personal preference. Donut style beds have higher sides, like a warm hug. Not only have these beds been found to keep cats warmer, but they are also said to have calming properties. The Bedsure Calming Cat Bed for Indoor Cats is a favourite in our house. With two cats, we had to pick up multiple beds to avoid fights over who got to sleep in the fluffy, comfy spot. Another option for cozy cat beds that I have seen several pet parents sharing is a covered bed or cat cave. This helps keep your cat warmer by trapping the warm air inside the bed with your kitty. The smaller the entry to your cat’s bed, the less warm air will be able to escape while they are sleeping inside. However, some cats find being in an enclosed space like this frightening as they are trapped and can’t escape if threatened. Finally, make sure to include plenty of cozy blankets they can snuggle into. The more blankets they have to move around and nest in, the better. They will arrange their sleeping space to best suit their needs. Use a Heated Bed or MatAnother great solution for creating a warm, cozy sleeping spot for your cat is to use a heated bed or mat. There are two options to consider, depending on the availability of nearby sockets and your personal preferences/comfort level. The first is a typical plug-in heated bed similar to heated blankets and mattress covers used on our own beds. These heated beds have controls giving you the ability to easily change the temperature to suit your cat’s needs. They can also be set to turn off after a specified time to avoid the bed becoming too warm or drawing too much power. An alternative is to use a self-heated design. Self-heated beds and cat mats reflect your cat’s own body heat when they are lying on them. This creates a warm, heated sleeping spot without the need for electricity. Not only are these great for locations with no available nearby socket, but they are also the perfect solution for cats who tend to chew electrical cords.

Can Dogs Have Thyroid Issues? Understanding Your Pet’s Hormonal Health

The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in a dog’s overall health, regulating metabolism, energy levels, and many bodily functions. Just like humans, dogs can experience thyroid issues, which can lead to noticeable changes in their behavior, weight, and coat condition. Understanding these conditions can help pet owners recognize the signs early and seek proper veterinary care.What Is the Thyroid and What Does It Do?The thyroid is a small gland located in a dog’s neck, responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism. These hormones - primarily thyroxine (T4) - help control how the body uses energy. When the thyroid isn’t functioning correctly, it can lead to either an underactive or overactive thyroid, both of which impact a dog’s overall well-being.Hypothyroidism: The Most Common Thyroid Issue in DogsHypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, slowing down metabolism. This condition is more common in middle-aged and older dogs, particularly in medium to large breeds such as Golden Retrievers, Dobermans, and Labrador Retrievers.Symptoms of HypothyroidismA dog with an underactive thyroid may exhibit signs such as:Unexplained weight gain despite no change in dietLethargy or low energy levels Dry, flaky skin and a dull coatHair loss, particularly on the tail or backCold intolerance (seeking warmth more than usual)Slow heart rateRecurring skin infectionsBecause these symptoms can develop gradually, many pet owners may not notice the changes right away. However, if your dog starts showing multiple signs, it’s best to consult a veterinarian for a thyroid function test.Causes and Treatment of HypothyroidismThe most common cause of hypothyroidism in dogs is an autoimmune disorder called lymphocytic thyroiditis, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland. Other causes include thyroid atrophy or, in rare cases, iodine deficiency.Treatment typically involves daily thyroid hormone replacement medication, which helps restore normal hormone levels. Most dogs respond well to this treatment, regaining their energy and maintaining a healthy weight with proper dosage and regular monitoring.Hyperthyroidism: A Rare but Serious ConditionHyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, is much less common in dogs than hypothyroidism. It typically occurs due to a thyroid tumor that causes excess hormone production.Symptoms of HyperthyroidismDogs with hyperthyroidism may show:Rapid weight loss despite a good appetiteIncreased heart rateHyperactivity or restlessness Excessive thirst and urinationEnlarged thyroid gland (noticeable lump in the neck)Since hyperthyroidism is usually linked to tumors, treatment options may include surgery, radiation, or medication to manage hormone production. Early detection is key to improving a dog’s prognosis.When to See a VeterinarianIf your dog exhibits any signs of thyroid issues, a veterinarian can perform blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels. Catching thyroid problems early can prevent complications and improve your dog’s quality of life.Keeping Your Dog’s Thyroid HealthyWhile some thyroid conditions are genetic or unavoidable, keeping your dog at a healthy weight, providing balanced nutrition, and scheduling regular vet checkups can help monitor and maintain their overall health. Being aware of potential thyroid issues ensures your furry friend stays happy, active, and thriving.

Can Dogs Get Dry Eye? You Betcha!

How to Build Your Cat's Confidence

Do you have a cat who runs to hide under the bed at the slightest noise, avoids eye contact, or hides out in fear anytime you have guests over? While some shyness is normal, a lack of confidence can hurt your cat’s overall quality of life. Imagine going through life afraid of everything and anything.Luckily, with a bit of understanding and effort, you can help your cat build confidence and blossom into a self-assured, happy companion.Building your cat’s confidence starts with creating a safe, enriching home environment that encourages exploration and positive association. It also requires plenty of opportunities for play (both with and without you) and mental stimulation. In addition to the right environment, your cat’s confidence can be boosted by approaching any interactions with people or other pets with patience and respect. Avoid forcing them into something that makes them scared or uncomfortable, and use positive reinforcement to encourage positive behaviors.Whether you’re dealing with a newly adopted, nervous rescue or a long-term feline family member that you believe could benefit from a confidence boost, the following tips will help you get started!Is My Cat Confident? What to Look ForBefore I start sharing tips for building your cat's confidence, let’s start with a foundation for feline confidence and what it looks like. After all, if you have a cat displaying a high level in their daily routine, you may approach the action steps here differently than a cat who communicates with their body language that their confidence is lacking.Signs of a Confident CatIf your cat is confident and self-assured, you may notice them displaying the following behaviors:Curiosity: Confident cats are comfortable enough in their surroundings to feel safe exploring. They may venture into new rooms and explore new places in your home, climb up on shelves or furniture to check out their space from a new angle, or readily explore bags and other objects you bring into your home.Playful and Energetic: In addition to being curious, a confident cat feels safe and secure enough to drop their protective barriers and tap into that inner playful kitten. They may spend hours batting around their favorite toys, show signs of the zoomies (yes, cats get them, too), or try to entice you into a play session.Approaches People Confidently: A confident kitty will willingly approach people, including new people, with curiosity. This could include carefully sniffing and checking them out, rubbing against their legs, or even climbing into their lap. Of course, remember that some cats are naturally more affectionate than others.Using Scratch Posts Freely: Scratching is an important natural behavior for cats. In the wild, it’s used to mark their territory, maintain their claws, and stretch out their paws (and the rest of their bodies). A confident cat will use their scratch post or cat tree without hesitation, knowing it is their space.Positive Vocalization: Do you have a chatty or talkative cat? If so, they may be expressing their confidence. Positive vocalizations like purring, chirping, and gentle meowing are like casual conversations – your cat is confident in their home, and your relationship and just wants to connect with you.Signs a Cat’s Confidence is LackingOn the flip side, your cat may be trying to tell you they are unsure or their confidence is lacking. Here are a few signs your cat may benefit from a confidence boost:Hiding: One of the biggest signs that a cat feels insecure is their need to hide, especially when confronted with someone new. If your cat spends all their time in dark, secluded corners of your home, take note.Aggression (Fear-Based): When you or someone you know reaches over to pet your cat, how do they respond? While it’s not uncommon for a confident cat to move away slightly while sniffing to want to know who is trying to touch them, a cat who lacks confidence may feel like they have to defend themselves. This can manifest in aggressive behaviors like swatting, hissing, growling, or even biting.Over-Grooming: While grooming is a positive and necessary behavior, a cat who is feeling stressed or anxious may take this to an extreme. Excessive grooming or over-grooming is often an attempt to calm themselves when uncomfortable in a situation or environment. You may notice the behavior itself or the side effects, like hair loss, bald patches, or irritated/inflamed skin.Loss of Appetite: When cats are stressed or afraid, they may lose all interest in food. You may notice their food bowls sitting untouched or that they are losing weight. A cat lacking confidence will often turn down treats as well.Bathroom Accidents: A stressed or anxious cat often displays unwanted behaviors, one of the most common being doing their “business” outside the litterbox. You may notice this as an ongoing problem or only when something triggers their anxiety, like when you have guests over.If you recognize any of these signs in your cat, it isn’t a poor reflection on you as a cat parent. There are many reasons a cat may struggle to feel confident in our busy, fast-paced world. However, it is a sign that your cat needs a little extra support to live their best life.

Are Goldendoodles High Maintenance?

Goldendoodles are undeniably the charmers of the dog world. A hybrid of the elegant Poodle and the friendly Golden Retriever, these dogs boast an irresistible combination of beauty, brains, and a lovable personality. With their fluffy, often curly coats and affectionate nature, Goldendoodles have quickly won hearts worldwide.But for those considering adding one to their family, an important question often arises: Are Goldendoodles high-maintenance? The answer depends on factors like grooming, exercise, training, and overall care. Let’s dive in!Grooming Needs: A Beautiful Coat Comes at a CostThe first thing you’ll notice about a Goldendoodle is its gorgeous, wavy, or curly coat — a hallmark trait from its Poodle parent. This low-shedding coat makes Goldendoodles a favorite among allergy-prone families. However, this comes with a grooming commitment.Brushing: Their coats need brushing several times a week to prevent tangles and mats. Investing in a high-quality grooming kit is essential.Professional Grooming: Regular trips to a groomer every 6–8 weeks will help maintain their coat’s health and length.

Dog Achieves Internet Fame with Her "Puppy Parkour"

The internet has opened the door for a new type of celebrity, making it easier than ever for individuals (humans and pets) to achieve fame and recognition on a global scale. Thousands of people around the world log onto social media each day to enjoy funny, adorable, and unique pet videos.  One such internet sensation that has recently captured the attention of thousands is Nola, a Treeing Walker Coonhound mix from New York. Vanessa and Ryan Marquette first met Nola when they brought her into their home as a foster. She was adorable and well-behaved, quickly connecting with the couple and making herself at home. It didn’t take long for the couple to fall in love. It was only three months after first bringing her home that they made it official and adopted her. “We could tell right away she felt so at home,” Ryan stated, “and she quickly became part of the family.” Not long after welcoming Nola into the family, a pet sitter mentioned that she was exhibiting an interesting (and potentially problematic) skill. They warned the couple that the pup had managed to jump over the tall fence that surrounded their property. Given the height of the fence and the fact that they had never seen Nola making any impressive jumps in the house, it was hard for the Marquettes to believe that she could leap over the fence in one bound. It seemed like an unbelievable feat. So, they pushed the idea aside and didn’t give it another thought. “I didn’t believe that she was jumping the fence. That’s a four-foot jump. That’s significant. She’s not the biggest dog in the world. So, I remember going out and walking the entire fence perimeter, looking for holes because I was like, there’s no way. She’s slipping out underneath somewhere doing something, and that’s how she’s getting out. Then I found nothing,” Ryan explained. However, after moving to a new home in Syracuse, New York, with a larger yard and trees around the property, they noticed something interesting. It wasn’t that Nola was “jumping” over the fence. Instead, she was using her own take of puppy parkour to scale the fence with the help of a nearby tree.

Rescue Dog Goes on Tour with Pink to Find Forever Home

We often hear about musicians and artists making an impact through financial donations or participating in charitable events. But a new heartwarming story of a dog’s search for his forever home has been capturing the hearts of animal lovers everywhere. Graham Cracker was found by a young girl in the woods of Vilonia, Arkansas, with his mother and littermates. She had been sneaking food to the stray mama dog, trying to do what she could to help. After her mother found out about the dogs, she contacted a rescue team to find them and get the pups to safety. This was when their journey led the pups to The Bond Between, a non-profit rescue organization in Minnesota. But for Graham Cracker, this was just the beginning! On October 17th, an announcement on Instagram revealed that Graham Cracker had found a loving but very unique foster parent. After seeing the young pup’s adorable photos, Grammy-winner Pink invited the pup, who appears to be a Labrador Retriever mix, to join her and her family on tour. She went on to announce the decision to her fans during her St. Paul, MN show:“We rescued a puppy from this awesome organization called The Bond Between. His name is Graham Cracker. He’s currently peeing all over my dressing room,” Pink stated while seated at her piano on stage. “We’re actually – I haven’t told anybody this yet, but we’re gonna foster him for the tour, and he’s gonna go on this big carnival adventure with us.”

Things to Consider Before Getting a Guinea Pig

There’s so much to like about guinea pigs. They’re super cute, they make a range of adorable sounds, and they’re small enough to fit in your hands. But even though you might be tempted to bring one home, there’s a lot to consider before you do.

What is the Best Litter for My Cat? Understanding Litter Types

The litterbox is often an afterthought for many of us, something that’s obviously necessary, but we overlook that it’s a cornerstone to our cat’s physical and mental well-being. Your cat’s litter box is important, including every detail that goes into it!A positive litter box experience is far more significant than simply a place to do their business. It directly impacts their hygiene, comfort, and even their overall behavior. Just as we appreciate a clean and comfortable bathroom, our cats have their own standards. Have you ever walked into a public washroom only to feel like you should just back away slowly?When setting up your cat’s litter box, there are several factors you should consider, one of which includes the type of litter. It’s easy to assume all litters are created equal, but the reality is that a world of different options, materials, and formulations exist, each with its own pros and cons.This guide will explain the differences between the many types of cat litter and help you find the perfect match for your cat to ensure a happy and accident-free home.Why Does Litter Choice Matter So Much?Choosing the right litter for your cat goes beyond simply providing a place to do their business. From a hygiene and health perspective, the right litter is an essential piece of the puzzle in providing a clean and healthy environment both for your cat and the rest of the household. The right litter choice will efficiently absorb moisture, limiting the growth of bacteria, preventing tracking through your home, and reducing unpleasant odors.Beyond the practicalities of basic cleanliness, there are behavioral impacts of your choices relating to your cat’s litter box. Cats can be surprisingly picky about the finer details of their litter, including the texture and the scent. Providing them with litter that doesn’t fit their personal preferences can lead to litter box avoidance and accidents in the home.For environmentally-conscious cat parents, it’s also worth noting that each litter option carries a different environmental footprint. From production to disposal, they each affect your impact on the environment differently.Finally, let’s not forget your convenience. While your cat’s happiness is the first priority, if you are down to a few options and one works better for you and your lifestyle, it makes sense to go in that direction. After all, a litter that’s difficult to manage or pushes the boundaries of your budget may not be an ideal long-term solution, regardless of how your cat feels about it.Exploring the Different Types of Cat LitterThere are a surprising number of different cat litter materials and formulations to choose from. Standing in your local pet store, looking at all the options, you may be feeling overwhelmed. Let’s look at the nuances of each type, including its pros and cons, to help you better understand the impact on your cat’s comfort and your own convenience, making it easier than ever to choose the best cat litter for your home.Clay Litter The best-known and most widely used liter solution, clay litter is a popular choice among cat parents. It’s primarily available in two types: clumping and non-clumping. Clumping clay litter is made from bentonite clay, a material with an incredible ability to absorb moisture and form solid, scoopable clumps when exposed to urine and feces. This clumping action makes daily cleaning of the box much easier, as you can easily remove the soiled portions while leaving the clean litter behind for future bathroom breaks. This makes it more budget-friendly than other solutions, as you only have to throw away the used litter.   Non-clumping clay litter is similar in that it is made from clay, but while it still absorbs the moisture, the clay does not form clumps. This can make cleanup a little more challenging as there are no easy clumps to remove. However, for young kittens, cats with PICA, or homes with dogs who may get into the box, the lack of clumping makes it a safer option that is less likely to cause a life-threatening blockage if consumed. It's worth noting that when choosing a clay litter, there are different textures, ranging from fine, sand-like litter to coarser particles. Some cats will have strong preferences related to texture, so pay attention to their digging and covering habits. Another variation that could turn your cat off is scented litter. While these scents may help mask odors, we must remember that our cats have a stronger sense of smell and are more sensitive to scents like these. Feeling overwhelmed by it, they may avoid the litter box entirely, leading to more accidents around the house. While clay litters are widely available and generally more cost-effective, they have some drawbacks. These litters can be quite dusty, which can be a concern for cats or cat parents with respiratory sensitivities. They are also generally heavier to carry. Finally, they are not biodegradable, meaning they contribute to landfill waste. Silica Gel (Crystal) Litter This type of litter is composed of small silica gel beads that act like tiny sponges, absorbing a surprising amount of litter while trapping odors. For this reason, one significant advantage of silica gel litter is its ability to control or eliminate odor, often doing so better than any clay litter product. It’s also incredibly lightweight, making it easy to carry, handle, and pour. Because the litter absorbs moisture so effectively, you can go longer between full litter box changes. While it may seem that fewer litter box changes would translate to considerable cost savings, this, unfortunately, isn’t the case due to the higher upfront costs. Some cats may also find the texture of the crystals or the slight crunching sound they make when stepped on to be uncomfortable or bothersome, which could turn them off using the box. My overly sensitive cat Pippen refuses to step on any form of silica gel litters I have tried in the past.

Valentine’s Day Flowers That Are Dangerous to Pets

Flowers, jewelry, and sweet treats are popular ways to show your love to someone on Valentine’s Day. But if you share your home with dogs or cats, be careful about which flowers you put on display, as many of them are toxic to pets.

Spring Cleaning Tips for Pet Parents

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

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.

Having a Pet Can Improve Well-Being As Much As Having a Spouse

If you’re hoping to improve your life, bringing home a canine or feline companion might be just what you need. Continue reading to learn about a study on the value of pets and their impact on well-being.