What To Consider Before Using Talking Pet Buttons

What to Consider Before Moving State With a Pet

Moving to a new state is exciting, but it can be stressful for your furry friend.Pets thrive on routine, so a move requires extra planning to make the transition as smooth as possible.Here are some key things to consider before hitting the road.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Do Pets Feel the Winter Blues Too? What Every Pet Parent Should Know

As winter rolls in, many people notice changes in their own mood and energy levels. Shorter days, colder weather, and less time outdoors can take a toll. But what about our pets? While animals don’t experience depression in the same way humans do, they can be affected by seasonal changes that influence their behavior, activity, and overall wellbeing.Understanding how winter can impact your pet is the first step toward keeping them happy and healthy through the colder months.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

5 Tips for Looking After Somebody Else's Dog

Taking care of someone else’s dog can be a lot of fun, but it also comes with responsibilities. Every dog has its own personality and habits, so even if you’re experienced with your own pet, another dog may have different needs. Whether you’re dog-sitting for a friend, family member, or colleague, these tips will help make the experience safe, enjoyable, and stress-free for both you and the dog.

Keep an Eye on Your Cat’s Health with the Luma Smart Litter Box

Track bathroom habits and catch potential health issues early.It’s sometimes easy to miss the signs when a cat isn’t feeling well, as many cats instinctively hide their discomfort. The Petlibro Luma Smart Litter Box offers a practical solution. It monitors your cat’s bathroom habits and provides insights that help you pick up on any changes before they become more serious. 

5 Tips for Bringing Home a Kitten

Bringing a kitten home is an exciting experience, but it can also be a little chaotic. One minute you’re staring at the tiniest pink nose you’ve ever seen. The next, that same tiny creature is scaling your couch like it’s a mountain.If you’re about to welcome a kitten into your life, a little preparation will go a long way, making those early days smoother for both of you. Here are five tips to help.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Let’s Talk About Dog Poop

What’s Normal, What’s Not, and When to Worry

Designer Nods to Canine Influencers During New York Fashion Week 2025

Iconic gathering of the stylish and celebrated recognize the importance of dogs in our lives.

It's Winter! Let's Keep Your Backseat Companion Safe and Warm.

(photo credit: Anna Averianova / shutterstock.com)It’s winter, and for anyone living in the northern states or Canada, driving conditions can quickly turn hazardous with minimal warning. White-outs, black ice, freezing rain… all create the perfect setting for accidents. And frigid temperatures can cause the most well-maintained vehicles to stall or not start when you need them most.Whether you’re dealing with an accident or a breakdown, waiting for help can easily leave you sitting in a disabled car for hours. And when you’re travelling with a fur-kid or two, that immediately introduces another element of concern because the temperature inside your car is going to drop – rapidly – until it matches that of the outside. In short, within 15 minutes or so, your car will get very cold. Within one hour, it will be frigid with you and your pet sitting inside what can best be described as a refrigerator. Your goal as a pet parent is to keep both you and your furry travellers as warm as possible until help arrives. And here's how you do it!Tips to Keeping that Furry Backseat Passenger Warm

Is a Pot-Bellied Pig in Your Future? Read On!

STARS Air Ambulance Welcomes Orion as Their New Therapy Dog

For those of us who share our lives with pets, we know that their very presence can change the energy of a room. Whether it’s a quiet evening at home or a stressful afternoon, our animals help to ground and calm us. Recently, STARS Air Ambulance, an organization known for high-stakes, life-saving missions, decided to bring that same benefit to its frontline crews by welcoming a very special new team member, Orion. Orion is a professionally trained therapy dog provided by the Pacific Assisted Dog Society (PADS). Since joining the team in February 2025, he has become a fixture at the Winnipeg base, though his calming influence and energy extend across the STARS network. His primary role with the team is to support the pilots, paramedics, and flight nurses who work daily in environments and situations that involve extreme stress and trauma.  “What our plan is, to evaluate the first two years with a therapy dog and decide from there to expand the program and whether that will include additional dogs in each province or each of our six bases,” explained Grant Therrien, providing director for Manitoba STARS operations, STARS flight paramedic, and Orion’s handler. While we often use the terms interchangeably, Orion’s role is distinctly different from that of a service dog. A service dog is specifically trained to perform tasks for a single individual with a disability, such as guiding someone with visual impairment or alerting a person to an impending seizure so that they can prepare themselves accordingly. These dogs have specific legal public access rights because they are considered essential medical equipment. In contrast, a therapy dog like Orion is trained to provide emotional and psychological comfort to many people. These dogs must have an exceptionally calm temperament and enjoy being handled by people, especially strangers. Their “job” is presence. By simply sitting with a flight crew after a difficult mission, Orion helps lower cortisol levels and heart rates, helping them back to a calmer state of mind. Orion’s work is not limited to the staff. He has also become a key resource for former patients and their families. When survivors return to the base to meet the crews who saved them, the emotions they experience can be overwhelming. Orion often stands with these families, offering a quiet, reassuring presence that makes a sensitive conversation and difficult memories a little easier to navigate. The addition of Orion to the STARS team is a clear reminder of what pet parents have always known: the bond between humans and animals is a powerful tool for healing. In the world of emergency medicine, where every second counts, Orion reminds the team to take a breath. He proves that sometimes the most effective way to care for those who save lives is provide them with a loyal friend who is always ready to listen. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

FDA Issues EUA for Screwworm Treatment for Cats

To fight the threat of screwworm infection in cats, the FDA issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) on November 21, 2025 for Credelio CAT (lotilaner), making it the first drug that has been authorized by the agency for New World screwworm (NWS) in cats. This follows their EUA for Credelio for dogs that was issued in late October.

How to Spot Early Signs of Arthritis in Dogs

Arthritis isn’t just a human problem, our furry friends can suffer from it too.While it’s more common in older dogs, arthritis can affect pups of any age, especially those with joint injuries or genetic predispositions. That’s why spotting the early signs of arthritis is crucial to keeping your pooch happy, healthy, and mobile.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Minnesota Gets Its First Pet-Friendly College Campus

For many of us, the bond we share with our pets is truly special. They are our companions, confidants, therapists, playmates, emotional anchors, and daily entertainment. Studies have even shown that living with a pet benefits our physical and mental health.  However, for young adults heading off to college, that bond has historically been severed at the dormitory door. That is officially changing in Minnesota. Gustavus Adolphus College, a private liberal arts college in St. Peter, recently announced a landmark shift in their campus policy. Starting this fall, Gustavus will become the first pet-friendly campus in the state, launching a pilot program that allows students to bring their dogs and cats to live with them in a designated residence hall. This move comes on the heels of a growing understanding of the “human-animal bond” in our modern society. For students navigating the high-pressure environment of college life, having a beloved pet with them can lower cortisol levels, reduce feelings of loneliness, help open doors to new social interactions and relationships, and encourage a more consistent daily routine. The program is currently limited to students in their second year or beyond who are in good academic standing. To prevent potential challenges before they arise, the college has established specific criteria that reflect the high standards of responsible pet parenting and rules to ensure pets fit well into the college lifestyle. Size and Behavior: Dogs must weigh 40 pounds or less, be fully housebroken, and have no history of aggression. Health and Wellness: Both cats and dogs must be at least one year old, spayed or neutered, and current on all vaccinations. Stability: To ensure the pet is well-adjusted, the college requires proof that the animal has lived with the student or their family for at least six months prior to moving onto campus. Financial responsibilities include a $300 annual pet fee and a $200 refundable deposit. Additionally, students must identify an emergency caretaker within 350 miles of campus, ensuring the animal has a safety net if the student is ever unable to care for them. For parents of college-bound students, this policy change represents a significant shift in the way we integrate pets into our lives. Beyond emotional comfort, living with a pet teaches students a high level of responsibility. Managing a pet’s schedule alongside a demanding course load requires exceptional time management and a dedication to the health and happiness of another living being. By requiring veterinary records and health certifications, the college reinforces the importance of preventive care. This helps spark conversations and spread awareness about this important topic. Gustavus Adolphus plans to evaluate the program over the next three years to determine its long-term viability. As pet parents, we know that our animals aren’t just “extras” in our lives. They are family. Seeing higher education institutions recognize this value is a promising step toward a society that fully embraces the benefits of our furry companions in every stage of life. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here. 

F1 Driver Lewis Hamilton Sits Vigil for His Best Buddy, Roscoe

12-year-old English Bulldog in coma after heart stops during treatment for pneumonia.

Are Pheromone Products the Answer to Your Dog's Stress?

Watching your dog struggle with anxiety is heartbreaking for any loving dog parent. Whether it is the fear of fireworks or the stress of being home alone, we often find that love and reassurance aren’t enough to settle a triggered nervous system.In your search for solutions, you’ve likely found pheromone products like diffusers and collars. These tools aim to “speak” to your dog’s brain in their own language by mimicking the chemical signals a mother dog uses to soothe her puppies. This post will discuss the science behind these products, when they are most effective, and how to determine if they are the right fit for your dog’s current struggles.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article, but at no cost to you.How Do Pheromone Products Work? To understand how pheromones work, we have to look at your dog’s anatomy. While humans rely primarily on our eyes and ears, a dog’s world is defined by scent. When a dog “smells” a pheromone, they aren’t using the same part of the nose that detects a steak on the counter or sniffs out their kibble in a snuffle mat. Instead, they use a specialized structure called the vomeronasal organ, or Jacobson’s organ. Located in the roof of the mouth, just behind the front teeth, this organ acts like a dedicated relay station for chemical communication between the world and your dog’s brain. When your pup detects pheromones, they often perform a subtle lip-curl or “tasting” motion to direct the molecules towards this organ. You may even see them chattering their teeth. Once received, these chemical signals bypass the “thinking” part of the brain and head straight to the limbic system, the area responsible for emotions and the fight-or-flight response. In nature, a mother dog gives off a specific pheromone called the Dog Appeasing Pheromone (DAP) from her mammary glands for several days after giving birth. When her puppies detect and receive this chemical, it tells their limbic system that they are safe, secure, and protected, allowing them to feel calm and relaxed. This is the chemical that modern pheromone products are focused on. By releasing a synthetic version of the DAP into your home, you are triggering the same feelings of maternal comfort your dog would have had as a newborn puppy. For an adult dog, this isn’t about “acting like a puppy” again; it’s about lowering their baseline cortisol levels and telling their nervous system that their immediate environment is safe. It’s about letting them relax and feel secure in their home space. Types of Pheromone Products for Dogs Choosing the right product depends largely on where and when your dog experiences the most stress. To help you choose the right delivery method for your lifestyle, here is a breakdown of the three most common pheromone products and how they function within your home or on the go: Plug-In Diffusers The most common household option is the plug-in diffuser, which functions similarly to a plug-in air freshener. It slowly releases the synthetic pheromones into the air, creating a consistent “zone of calm” in a specific room or area. This is the ideal choice for general household anxiety, helping multiple pets get along, or providing a sense of security for a dog that struggles when left alone. To get the most out of the diffuser, place it in the room where your dog spends the majority of their time, and ensure it isn’t blocked by furniture or placed near an open window where the pheromones could drift away. Pheromone Collars For dogs that experience stress both inside and outside the home, pheromone collars are a more portable option. These collars are infused with synthetic pheromones, which are activated and released by your dog’s own body heat. This makes them particularly useful for dogs that are fearful on walks, sensitive to outdoor noises, or frequent travelers. For the collar to be effective, it needs to be worn snugly, but not too snugly, allowing enough room for two fingers to fit underneath. This ensures it stays close enough to the skin to stay warm. Sprays and Wipes Finally, pheromone sprays and wipes serve as excellent on-demand tools for targeted situations. These are perfect for short-term events or situations, such as a trip to the veterinarian, a grooming appointment, or a car ride. It is important to remember that these should never be sprayed directly on your dog. You can apply the spray directly to your dog’s bedding, a travel crate, or even a bandana they will wear throughout the event. Apply them to the object about 15 minutes before your dog begins interacting with it. This allows the alcohol carrier to evaporate, leaving behind only the soothing pheromone. When to Reach for Pheromone ProductsBecause pheromones speak directly to your dog’s sense of safety, they are an effective choice for situations where a dog feels their environment has become threatening or unpredictable. By introducing a “signal of security” that appeals to their limbic system, you can help reduce the stress and anxiety they may otherwise be experiencing.Navigating Big Life ChangesThe transition of moving to a new home can be a significant source of stress for a dog. Their entire map of “safe” scents is suddenly replaced by the unknown. Using a pheromone diffuser in the weeks following a move can help anchor them to the new space. Similarly, when bringing a new puppy or rescue dog into your family, these products can help ease the transition period, making the unfamiliar environment they face instantly more welcoming.Managing Environmental FearsFor many dogs, the world is simply too loud. The booming of thunderstorms or the unpredictable bang of fireworks can send an otherwise calm dog into a state of panic. While pheromones may not completely eliminate a severe phobia, they can help lower your dog’s overall “baseline” anxiety. This makes it easier for them to use other coping mechanisms, such as retreating to their “ safe space,” engaging in calming activities like licking a lick mat, or responding to your calming presence.Social and Separation StressorsDogs are highly social creatures, and changes in their “pack” (your family) can be jarring or upsetting. This includes (but isn’t limited to): Separation Anxiety: Helping a dog feel more secure when left aloneNew Family Members: Assisting with the introduction of a new baby, family member, or another petOther Changes in the Household: Assisting a dog through the grief or confusion of losing a family member, whether through death, a child moving away for college, or a change in a relationshipHouseguests: Reducing the “ stranger danger” response when new people enter their territoryTravel and Vet VisitsThe vet’s office is a sensory minefield of strange smells and sounds. Many dog parents find success by using pheromone sprays on blankets or car crates before a vet visit or a long road trip. By bringing a familiar “safety signal” with them into these high-stress environments, you provide a sense of security even when you’re on the move, helping them stay calmer in new settings.

3 Easy Tips for Keeping Your Dog’s Teeth Healthy

Keeping your dog’s teeth healthy doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. With just a few simple habits, you can protect their smile, prevent painful dental issues, and keep their breath a whole lot fresher. Here are three easy tips to help your pup maintain great dental health.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

A Four-Legged Charmer Leads Buddhist Monks on a Pilgrimmage for Peace

Known as The Peace Dog, Aloka joins a 2,500-mile trek from Texas to D.C. bringing blessings to all he encounters.

How to Choose Dog-Friendly Places That Won’t Overwhelm Your Pet

Finding the perfect place to take your dog for a little “out of house adventure” is about more than just checking for a sign at the door announcing pets are allowed. A successful adventure starts with careful consideration for your dog’s comfort and confidence rather than just our own convenience. While the world is becoming more pet-friendly by the day, not every dog-friendly space is a good fit for every dog’s unique temperament, training level, or social battery.Even just looking at our two dogs, Lucifer and Willow, their requirements and preferences are vastly different in many ways.The goal is to find environments where your dog can genuinely enjoy the experience and thrive alongside you, rather than simply surviving the stress of the crowd. Whether you are headed to a quiet bookstore for a cozy visit on a cold winter day or a busy weekend market under the summer sun, choosing the right destination is the first step in planning a fun day out together.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article, but at no cost to you.Is Your Dog Ready for Public Spaces? Like people, every dog has a unique social battery and tolerance for public spaces. Understanding where your dog falls on this spectrum will help you choose a location that won’t result in burnout or stress. Most dogs can be sorted into one of four general categories: Social Butterflies: These dogs genuinely enjoy meeting new people and other dogs. They are great candidates for busier environments, such as outdoor markets. Neutral Observers: These dogs are indifferent to others. They don’t need to say hello, but they can remain calm in a crowd. This is the gold standard for public behavior. The Selective or Shy: These dogs may feel overwhelmed in tight quarters. For them, “dog-friendly” should mean wide-open spaces rather than crowded restaurant patios. The Sensitive or Reactive: If your dog reacts to seeing other dogs or strangers with fear or barking, the best way to plan a positive day out is to skip the public crowds for now. Instead, look for private dog parks or remote hiking trails where they can enjoy themselves without worrying about the added pressure of others. It’s also important to note that if your dog isn’t ready for the outing you had in mind, it isn’t necessarily always going to be that way. With training and counterconditioning, many dogs can move on this spectrum. For example, our girl Willow is a Neutral Observer who sometimes crosses into Social Butterfly territory, which we try to keep in check to respect everyone’s space. Meanwhile, my boy Lucifer came to us as a Reactive dog who I would now say fits better into the Selective or Shy category. But to make these changes, you must first recognize and respect their current social comfort level. Additionally, take a moment to do a quick health audit. This includes up-to-date vaccinations and flea/tick prevention, especially if your adventure will take you out on local nature trails or grassy parks. Ensure their identification tags are legible, accurate, and secure. In an emergency, this could be the key to bringing your dog home safely. Helpful Training Cues You don’t need a professional agility dog or therapy pup to go to the hardware store, but there are a few foundational cues that will make your experience more enjoyable and safer for everyone involved. The first, and most obvious, is your dog’s ability to walk politely on a leash. Public spaces often have narrow walkways or paths you will need to navigate, like a store aisle. A dog who lunges or pulls can create an unsafe situation for themselves and others. Next, I would highly recommend the “settle” or “place” cue. This asks your dog to relax on a specific spot until they are given the release cue. This is particularly helpful if you are planning to spend time somewhere where you want to sit for a while, like a café or brewery. For our dogs, we introduced a designated portable mat that they recognize as their “place” wherever we go. Finally, consider teaching a solid “leave it” cue. This is essential for navigating dropped food on a patio, interesting-smelling merchandise in a park, or litter tossed aside at your local market. This may make the difference between a minor annoyance and a trip to the emergency vet.  Pre-Adventure Checklist Before you grab the leash and head out the door, take a moment to carefully consider the location you plan to visit and your dog’s current needs. A successful visit starts long before you arrive. Just as you wouldn’t walk out the door without your wallet, car keys, and cellphone, your dog also has a checklist. When heading out with our pups, we always pack a small gear bag with the following: High-Value Treats: Use these to reward calm behavior or to redirect your dog’s attention if they become distracted. You will need to experiment with different options to find what your dog considers high value. For our dogs, the treat bag often contains Charlee Bear Grain Free Crunch (Lucifer’s favorite) and Benny Bully’s (Willow’s favorite).   Collapsible Water Bowl: Hydration is key, especially if you are visiting outdoor patios in the sun. A Non-Retractable Leash: Fixed-length leashes (4-6 feet) provide much better control in public settings than retractable ones. Waste Bags: Always carry more than you think you need. After all, we want to ensure we will continue to be welcome in these spaces by respecting those we share them with. Portable Travel Mat: As I mentioned, we use this to reinforce the “place” command, giving them a designated spot to relax next to us while we enjoy a drink or a bite to eat.