When Stressed, People Prefer Pets Over Family and Friends

Do Rabbits Make Good Pets for Children?

Rabbits are undeniably adorable - fluffy, quiet, and full of charm. It’s no surprise that many children (and adults!) fall in love at first sight with them. But while rabbits can make wonderful companions, they aren’t always the right fit for every child or household. Like any pet, they have specific needs and behaviors that deserve careful consideration before bringing one home.Understanding Rabbit TemperamentUnlike cats or dogs, rabbits are prey animals by nature. This means they’re often more sensitive to loud noises, sudden movements, and rough handling. Young children, especially toddlers, may have a hard time being gentle or recognizing when a rabbit is scared or stressed.Many rabbits prefer to keep all four feet on the ground and don’t enjoy being picked up or cuddled tightly. For children expecting a snuggly, always-up-for-play kind of pet, this can be disappointing. Rabbits show affection in more subtle ways - nudging your hand, flopping down beside you, or following you around when they trust you.That doesn’t mean they can’t bond with children, but it does take patience, quiet interaction, and a calm environment.Rabbits Need Daily CareCaring for a rabbit is more involved than people often expect. They require:A balanced diet of fresh hay, rabbit pellets, leafy greens, and clean water.A clean and secure enclosure that offers enough room to move around, stretch, and hide.Daily exercise outside of their cage in a bunny-proofed area to stay physically and mentally healthy.Chew toys and enrichment to prevent boredom and dental issues.Even if a rabbit is technically “the child’s pet,” the reality is that most of the daily responsibilities - cleaning, feeding, vet visits - fall to the adults. Before bringing one home, ask yourself if your family is ready to take this on for the long haul.A Long-Term CommitmentRabbits live an average of 8–12 years, and some even longer. That’s a significant commitment, especially as children grow up, go through new interests, or eventually move out. It’s important to consider not just if your child is ready for a rabbit now, but if your household is ready for one for the next decade.That said, older children - especially those who are gentle, patient, and truly interested in animals - can form deep, meaningful bonds with rabbits. With the right guidance and supervision, they can learn responsibility, empathy, and the joy of caring for another living being.Choosing the Right RabbitIf you do decide a rabbit is the right choice for your family, it helps to research different breeds. Some are known for being more easygoing and social than others. For example, Mini Lops and Holland Lops are often recommended for families because of their calm temperaments.It's also a good idea to adopt from a rabbit rescue or shelter. Not only can staff help match you with a rabbit that fits your household, but many rabbits in rescues are already socialized and litter-trained.Setting Up a Rabbit-Friendly HomeTo make your new pet comfortable, you'll need:

How to Choose the Right Pet for Your Lifestyle

Bringing a pet into your life is exciting, but it's also a big decision. Pets aren't just cute companions; they depend on us for their health, happiness, and daily care. That’s why it’s so important to make sure the pet you choose actually fits your lifestyle, your home, and your long-term plans.Choosing thoughtfully can mean the difference between a joyful experience and a stressful one, for both you and your future pet. Here's what to think about before you say yes to a new furry (or scaly, or feathered) friend.Start by Looking at Your LifestyleBefore you even start thinking about breeds or species, ask yourself: what does a typical day look like for you?If you’re someone who loves being outside, running, hiking, or going on long walks, an active dog like a retriever or a border collie might be the perfect adventure buddy.But if your schedule is packed, you travel a lot, or you just love cozy nights at home, a lower-maintenance pet — like a cat, a hamster, or a fish - might be a better match.Be honest about how much time and energy you can consistently offer, not just on your best days, but every day.Think About Your HomeNext up: where do you live?Your living space plays a huge role in what kind of pet will thrive with you.If you’re in an apartment, a giant dog who needs room to run might not be the best fit.Smaller pets like birds, reptiles, or small mammals can often do great in smaller spaces, as long as their setups are thoughtfully designed.

How Can I Help My Cat Lose Weight?

There’s a silent epidemic quietly impacting countless cats across the United States and throughout the world: pet obesity. It’s a condition that, while seemingly harmless at first glance, can seriously impact your cat’s quality of life and shorten their precious time by your side.If you’re reading this, it’s because you’ve noticed your cat is carrying a few extra pounds as of late, and you’re concerned about the possible impact on their health and well-being. This post will help you understand why your cat’s weight matters, the tangible steps you can take to help them reach a healthy weight, and when to bring your veterinarian into the conversation.Why Your Cat’s Weight MattersIt’s easy to look at a chunky kitty and think they’re simply “cuddly” or “well-fed.” However, what might seem like a bit of extra cushion could also be a sign of a serious health concern. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about a condition where your cat’s excess body weight could negatively impact their health and well-being.So, how can you tell if your cat is carrying too much weight?Beyond just the number on the scale, there are a few visual cues you can watch out for. Ideally, you should be able to feel your cat’s ribs when you gently run your hands along their side (although they should not be noticeably sticking out). Their waist should also be noticeable, tapering slightly behind the ribs when viewed from above.They might be overweight if you can’t feel their ribs or if your cat looks more like a furry loaf than a sleek cat. This is incredibly common, with the 2022 Association for Pet Obesity Prevention survey revealing that 61% of cats are overweight or obese.The Potential Health ProblemsThe consequences of carrying extra weight extend far beyond a less active lifestyle. Obesity can trigger, or significantly contribute to, many serious health problems. Experts warn that this additional weight could impact nearly every system in your cat’s body!DiabetesJust like in humans, obesity in cats significantly increases their risk of developing diabetes. Excess body fat can make a cat’s cells resistant to insulin, the key hormone needed to regulate blood sugar. This means their body struggles to use sugar for energy, leading to high blood sugar levels.If your cat is suffering from diabetes, you may notice they are drinking more, urinating more frequently, eating more, or even losing muscle mass despite eating. More severe cases of diabetes will require lifelong insulin injections to regulate your cat’s blood sugar. If left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening complications.OsteoarthritisImagine carrying a heavy backpack all day, every day. That’s essentially what an overweight cat’s joints experience. This excess weight puts immense strain on their bones, joints, and cartilage, leading to inflammation, pain, and the development of osteoarthritis. This can make it painful to jump, climb, or even walk.Signs of arthritis in cats include:Reluctance to moveDifficulty getting up or lying downReduced activity levelsStiffnessSubtle limpThis pain can significantly reduce your cat’s comfort and overall quality of life.Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease or Other Urinary IssuesOverweight cats are more likely to develop uncomfortable and potentially dangerous urinary tract problems. Obesity can contribute to inflammation in the bladder, the formation of urinary stones, or even life-threatening blockages, most commonly seen in male cats. Signs to watch out for include straining to pee, frequent trips to the litter box with little or no result, accidents outside the litter box, or crying out in pain while attempting to go.Liver Disease (Hepatic Lipidosis or Fatty Liver Syndrome)This is a particularly serious and potentially life-threatening condition unique to cats, and overweight kitties are at a much higher risk. If an overweight cat suddenly stops eating for even a short period (due to stress, illness, or even an attempt to diet too quickly), their body starts to send its fat reserves to the liver much faster. The liver becomes overwhelmed and can’t process the fat efficiently, leading to liver failure. This is why any sudden loss of appetite, especially in an overweight cat, should be addressed with a vet appointment.Cardiovascular DiseaseCarrying extra weight means your cat’s heart has to work much harder to pump blood throughout their body. This heavy workload can lead to higher blood pressure and, over time, can lead to the development of serious heart conditions, diminishing their cardiovascular health, and potentially shortening their lifespan.Respiratory Problems Just like humans, excess fat in cats can accumulate around their chest and abdomen, restricting the ability of their lungs to expand effectively. This can make breathing difficult, especially during activity or in warm temperatures. You might notice your cat snoring more, breathing heavily after minimal activity, or even showing signs of labored breathing. Reduced Quality of Life and LongevityBeyond specific diseases, an overweight cat is generally less active, less playful, and less able to engage in natural cat behaviors like grooming themselves thoroughly. They might struggle to reach certain areas, leading to matted fur, bald spots, and skin issues. You may not be surprised to hear that research consistently shows that cats who maintain a healthy weight live significantly longer, more comfortable, and more active lives than those who are overweight or obese. Anesthetic and Surgical Risks If your cat ever needs surgery or a dental procedure requiring anesthesia, their weight may pose additional risks. Excess fat can make it more challenging for vets to administer anesthesia safely and accurately, and it can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery due to altered drug metabolism and increased strain on the vital organs.

Research Shows Dog and Owner Heart Rates are Synched

Finnish University discovers more than an emotional bond between pets and ownerss.

5 Foods You Should Never Feed Your Guinea Pig

Just like cats and dogs, guinea pigs can’t eat everything we can. Some foods are actually dangerous for them. In this article, we’ll look at five foods you should always keep away from your piggy. Please note, this isn’t an exhaustive list so, if you’re ever unsure, it’s best to check with a vet before giving your pet something new.

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.

New Report Reveals Exciting Shifts in How We Love Our Pets

If you’re like most pet parents, you’re always looking for ways to give your best friend the most amazing life possible. And it turns out, you’re not alone! The American Pet Products Association (APPA) recently released their 2025 Dog & Cat Report, offering interesting insights into how pet ownership is growing and evolving. Spoiler: It’s showing our dedication to our pets is stronger than ever! For years, dogs seemed to be in the spotlight, but the APPA’s new data suggests 2024 was truly “The Year of the Cat.” They reported an impressive 23% increase in cat ownership in 2024, with 49 million U.S. households now including a cat in their family, up from 40 million in 2023. What’s more, cat parents are embracing multi-cat households like never before. The number of homes with three or more cats has jumped by a surprising 36% since 2018.But it’s not just about quantity; it’s about quality. Cat parents are building even stronger bonds with their kitties. The report shows a significant jump in the number of cat parents using training methods (up 41% since 2018) and purchasing items like leashes and harnesses. Yes, you read that right, even more cat parents are now exploring outside the home with their cats (and as a cat mom who loves to camp and hike with my own cats, I’m here for it)! For those who love to celebrate, cat birthday parties and pet-themed merchandise are also gaining popularity, showing just how big of a role our cats play in our daily lives. Dog parents also continue to build stronger connections with their pups, integrating them into nearly every aspect of their lives. Dogs are no longer just pets. They are companions, travel buddies, and best friends. The report highlights that dog parents increasingly include their pups in daily routines, promoting active and healthy living. Over half of dog parents (53%) take their dogs on daily errands on foot at least once a week. Travel with our furry friends is also on the rise, with more dogs flying (74% in the last year, up from 68% in 2023) and consistently hitting the open road with us by car. If you’ve ever wished you could bring your dog to work, you’re in good company. Nearly half of dog parents (49%) expressed interest in a dog-friendly workplace. These trends underscore a desire to honestly share our daily experiences, even the mundane and routine ones (like work), with our best friends. Beyond companionship, the report emphasized that there has been a growing focus on prioritizing proactive pet wellness, especially when it comes to nutrition and supplements. Pet parents are increasingly opting to purchase premium pet foods and functional add-ons. In 2024, premium food purchases increased for dog and cat parents, while basic food purchases declined. There has also been a notable growth in the use of mixers and toppers for pet food, with increases of over 129% for dogs and 138% for cats since 2018. Vitamins and supplements are also seeing a significant boost, being used by over half of dog parents (53%) and more than a third of cat parents (34%). Popular choices include supplements for joint health, multivitamins, pre- and probiotics, digestion supplements ( especially for cats), and those supporting skin and coat health. Ultimately, the report paints a clear picture: pet parenting is changing and evolving, and our dedication to providing the best possible quality of life for our pets is definitely the top priority! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

AI Is Helping to Find Lost Pets

AI has been making waves in the pet space for a while now, with veterinarians and pet parents gaining access to a variety of tools that can help them better assess a pet’s pain, track their daily habits, and more. And now there’s a new AI tool that can help reunite lost pets with their families.

Europe’s Stena Line Declares 2025 ‘The Year of Pet Travel’

Do you love including your pets in every aspect of your life? If so, you’re not alone! As cherished members of our families, the thought of leaving our pets alone for anything, even vacation, can be difficult. For many, it even influences our vacation choices, leading us to explore the possibilities of pet-friendly travel. It appears a major European travel provider understands this growing trend. Stena Line, a well-known ferry operator, has officially declared 2025 as ‘The Year of Pet Travel.’ It’s a move that highlights the increasing desire of pet parents who enjoy bringing their furry, scaled, or feathered companions along on their adventures. After all, there is no better travel companion (if you ask me, anyway). This declaration comes on the heels of impressive figures. In 2024 alone, Stena Line recorded a staggering 78,000 pet crossings on the Irish Sea. This surge in pet-friendly travelers isn’t an isolated trend. In fact, data reveals a surprising 28% rise in online searches related to pet travel over the past four years. This shift can be attributed to a few factors, including the growing reluctance of pet parents to vacation without their pets and the growing availability of pet-friendly accommodations. Of course, a travel trend like this is also noteworthy in terms of its economic impact. Experts report that approximately 37% of families travel with their pets, an increase of 19% in the last decade. It confirms the emotional importance of pets in our lives and the significant economic opportunity this could create for brands willing to cater to their travel needs. Stena Line is an excellent example of this in action. “At Stena Line, we know pets are important members of the family and we have made every effort to welcome them onboard, including increasing our number of pet cabins by 34% across our Irish Sea fleet,” stated Orla Noonan, Stena Line Travel Commercial Manager. The company is committed to making pet travel easier than ever, including a pet lounge on specific routes and allowing pet parents to leave their pets in their vehicles, kennels, or designated dog lodges during the voyage. Making these options available allows each traveler to choose the most comfortable and suitable arrangement for their pet’s unique needs and preferences. “It can sometimes feel a little daunting travelling with your pet,” Noonan said, “but we want to ensure pet owners that Stena Line is the relaxing way for you and your pet to travel.”  The declaration of 2025 as ‘The Year of Pet Travel’ by Stena Line is a clear indication of the ever-changing and evolving world of travel. As our bonds with our pets deepen, the travel industry is responding by making it easier and more accessible to bring them along for the journey. This can be seen in the recent pairing of Roch Dog and Dog In Dog Out to elevate the world of pet-friendly accommodations and the upcoming dog-friendly cruise on the Margaritaville at Sea Islander, setting sail in November. We hope that this is an indication of the growing list of opportunities for pet parents to make lasting memories with their pets by their side. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How to Find the Best Veterinarian for Your Pet

We shower our pets with love, provide nutritious food, and offer endless cuddles. Still, there’s one crucial piece of the pet parent puzzle that often goes overlooked until we desperately need it: a genuinely great veterinarian.Your vet is not just your pet’s doctor, there to fix things if they go wrong. They are part of their care team, working with you to ensure that your pet enjoys a life of health and happiness. They will guide you through every stage of your pet’s life, from playful puppies and energetic kittens to the graceful senior years.Choosing the right vet is one of the most impactful decisions you’ll make for your pet’s long-term well-being. It’s about building a relationship based on trust, expertise, and a shared commitment to your pet. This isn’t a decision to take lightly, and it’s certainly not one size fits all! That’s why we’ve put together this guide, walking you through everything you should consider when searching for the best veterinarian for your pet. Understanding Your Pet’s NeedsFinding the right veterinarian starts with understanding your pet’s needs and requirements. Not all veterinary practices are created equal, and what’s perfect for one animal might not be suitable for another. Here are some factors to help you narrow down your options:Age and Health ConsiderationsYour pet’s life stage and current health status will play a significant role in determining the ideal vet partner.Puppies and kittens require a vet who can guide you through early socialization, a comprehensive vaccination schedule, proper deworming practices, and discussions about spaying and neutering. As pets age, their needs evolve. Routine annual check-ups, preventive care, and guidance on weight management and nutrition are key for healthy adults. As your dog reaches their golden years, a vet experienced in geriatric care can help manage common senior issues like arthritis, monitor organ function, and provide compassionate palliative care when necessary.If your pet lives with a chronic condition, such as diabetes, severe allergies, or kidney disease, you’ll need a veterinarian who is not only knowledgeable in managing these long-term illnesses but also committed to ongoing management, communication, and personalized care plans.General Practitioners vs SpecialistsMost often, your pet will see a general practitioner. This is like their family doctor, the everyday hero of veterinary medicine, providing routine check-ups, vaccinations, minor illness treatment, and general preventative care. They are the first line of defense in your pet’s health.However, just like in human medicine, there are also veterinary specialists. These highly trained professionals focus on specific areas of vet medicine, such as internal medicine, dermatology, oncology, cardiology, orthopedics, or surgery. If your pet develops a complex or chronic condition that requires advanced diagnostics or specialized treatment, you may be referred to one of these experts. However, your general practice vet will still be part of the team throughout this process.The Unique Needs of Exotic PetsIf your beloved pet is anything other than a dog or cat, such as a hamster, hedgehog, parrot, lizard, snake, ferret, rabbit, guinea pig, or chinchilla, your search for a veterinarian narrows considerably. It’s crucial that you understand that not all veterinarians are trained or equipped to care for exotic species properly. Their anatomy, physiology, dietary requirements, and environmental needs are vastly different, and treating them effectively requires specialized knowledge and often unique equipment.When searching for a vet for an exotic pet, you must prioritize finding someone with specific experience and expertise with your particular species. Look for veterinarians who are members of or certified by exotic animal veterinary organizations, as this often indicates a dedicated focus and ongoing education in this specialized field.Practical Considerations When Choosing a VetWhen searching for the ideal vet, practical considerations like location and accessibility are surprisingly important and often overlooked. It’s easy to focus solely on medical expertise, but if you can’t get your pet to the appointment, it can significantly impact their ongoing care.Distance and ConvenienceFirst and foremost, consider the distance between your home and the veterinary clinic. For routine check-ups and vaccinations, a short drive is simply more convenient and less stressful for both you and your pet, especially if you have a pet who is anxious about car rides. However, proximity becomes crucial in an emergency. When every minute counts, a lengthy drive through traffic can make a critical difference.Don’t just consider the distance on paper. Think about your typical commute times, especially during peak hours. A clinic that seems close on a map might be surprisingly far in rush-hour traffic.Clinic HoursTake a look at the clinic’s operating hours. Do they align with your schedule? If you work traditional hours, finding a vet that offers evening or weekend appointments can be incredibly helpful and prevent you from having to take time off work for every visit. Flexibility in scheduling can make consistent vet care much easier to manage.Emergency ServicesBeyond routine visits, it’s vital to understand a clinic’s approach to emergency services. Not every veterinary office offers after-hours emergency care themselves. They may refer clients to a dedicated emergency veterinary hospital nearby, which means considering the distance to that location as well. Many general practices partner with 24/7 emergency centers, which is perfectly acceptable as long as the emergency clinic’s location is accessible for you.The key is knowing their protocol and the contact information for their recommended emergency facility before you’re in a stressful situation. Having a clear emergency plan in place is essential, as you often aren’t thinking straight during an active emergency.

Learn How to Recognize the Early Signs of Heart Disease in Your Dog

Have you ever listened to our dog cough and wondered if it’s just a little tickle or a sign of something far more serious? As loving dog parents, we want the best for our pups. This means we’re constantly on the lookout for trouble, which can sometimes make us a little overly cautious. But when it comes to understanding the early signs of heart disease in dogs, that diligence could save a life.Early detection allows you and your veterinarian to address the problem sooner, potentially slowing the progression of the disease and giving your best friend many more happy, healthy years by your side.I understand that the thought of heart disease can be daunting, but knowledge is power! This post will guide you through the information you need to be your dog’s best advocate, including the most common types of heart conditions, early warning signs to watch out for, how heart disease is diagnosed and treated, and most importantly, the proactive steps you can take to support your dog’s heart health and prevent a problem before it starts. Common Types of Canine Heart Disease Just like humans, dogs can develop different heart conditions and heart-related illnesses, each with unique challenges and care needs. This ranges from congenital defects that were present at birth to acquired diseases that develop over time (although possibly preventable), negatively impacting the heart’s ability to function correctly. Here are some of the most common types of heart disease your dog may experience: Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)One of the most common heart-related illnesses that dogs may experience is Mitral Valve Disease (MVD), a degenerative condition that affects the heart valve that separates the left atrium and left ventricle (aka the mitral valve). This valve’s job is to prevent blood from flowing backward, keeping blood flow in the body moving as it should. As the valve deteriorates, it may start to leak, allowing blood to flow back into the atrium. Some small breed dogs are at a higher risk of developing MVD, especially as they get older. This includes Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds, and Chihuahuas. Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)Another significant heart condition in dogs that has been gaining attention lately is Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). This occurs when the heart muscle weakens and becomes enlarged, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively. It has been in the news a lot in recent years as researchers evaluate the potential links between DCM and your dog’s diet. While it was once believed that grain-free diets increased the risk, it was later found that there was no clear link between the two. In fact, many grain-free diets were found to have no link to heart problems at all. New research now focuses less on the absence of grains and more on the ingredients used to replace them. This condition is more commonly seen in large and giant breed dogs, such as Doberman Pinschers, Boxers, and Irish Wolfhounds. Congenital Heart DefectsPresent from birth, congenital heart defects can range from minor to life-threatening. The term is used to describe abnormalities in the heart’s structure, such as holes in the heart or abnormal blood vessel connections. Early detection is crucial for these conditions as some can be corrected with surgery or other interventions, while others require ongoing management. Heartworm Disease Unlike the other conditions on the list, heartworm disease isn’t caused by issues with the heart itself. This parasitic infection occurs when worms live in the heart and lungs, dramatically impacting their ability to function effectively. Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes. While it would be nearly impossible to keep your dog mosquito-free throughout their entire life, there are preventative medications that will protect them against heartworms. This is crucial for your dog’s health and well-being, as the worms can cause severe and life-threatening damage to the heart, lungs, and blood vessels, resulting in heart failure and death. Early Warnings Signs: What to Look or As I mentioned, recognizing the early signs of heart disease is key for early diagnosis and timely intervention. The sooner your dog receives the necessary veterinary care, the better their prognosis in most cases. Unfortunately, many of these warning signs are subtle and easily overlooked.Changes in Breathing One of the most common early warning signs is a change in your dog’s breathing patterns. This could include an increased respiratory rate (tachypnea) or difficulty breathing (dyspnea). To measure your dog’s respiratory rate, count the breaths they take in one minute while resting. A normal resting respiratory rate for a healthy adult dog is between 10 and 30 breaths per minute. If your dog’s rate is consistently faster than this, especially at rest, it’s a sign that something is medically wrong, and you need to contact your veterinarian. Difficulty breathing is always a red flag. This can manifest as panting excessively, especially when resting, flared nostrils, or abdominal breathing (where the abdomen moves significantly with every breath). Even if your dog’s difficulty breathing isn’t caused by heart-related issues, it is a medical emergency. A persistent cough, especially one that sounds wet or hacking, can also be a sign of trouble. A cardiac cough is often worse at night or after any physical activity, as fluid builds up in the lungs, making the issue worse. Of course, not all coughs are connected to heart issues. But if your dog’s cough is persistent and doesn’t go away, you should make an appointment to get to the root of the problem. Becoming Easily Tired or Lethargic Have you recently noticed your dog is becoming tired much easier after physical activity? Are they showing less enthusiasm for activities or play that they once enjoyed? As the heart struggles to keep up with the demands of your dog’s body, failing to pump oxygenated blood efficiently, it can decrease their stamina. They may be reluctant to play or even go for walks. In the most severe cases, a dog may faint or collapse after minimal activity.  

9 Signs Your Pet Is Trying to Tell You Something Important

Pets communicate with us all the time, it just doesn’t involve words. From changes in behavior to subtle body language, they have their own ways of letting us know when something’s wrong or when they need something.Being able to recognize those signs can help you catch health or emotional issues early on.Here are 9 signs your pet might be trying to tell you something important. 

Having a Pet Influences How and If People Travel

If you’ve ever felt guilty about traveling and leaving your pet behind at home, you aren’t alone. According to a TrustedHousesitters survey of pet parents in the United States, having a pet can influence your travel plans. Keep reading to learn about some interesting stats, and see if you share a lot of the same feelings as so many others who aren’t always excited to go on vacation without their fur babies.

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

Great Storage Solutions for Wet Pet Foods

(photo credit: sophiecat / shutterstock.com)Over the years, dry pet food – AKA kibble – has become a staple in most households with pets. It’s convenient, easy to store, and quite frankly the quality these days is leaps and bounds over what it used to be. Between breed-specific, grain-free, all-natural, and large breed versus small breed options, the pet food industry has certainly stepped up to the plate on this one.However many pet owners still opt for wet food. Whether it’s out of a tin or it's a special, home-cooked recipe, wet food is a great solution for super picky eaters as well as older or ailing pets who may need the added hydration. It can also be the only choice for elderly dogs or cats who struggle to eat hard foods due to dental issues/loss of teeth.Yet unlike a large bag of kibble that will last for several weeks if not months, wet food has a definite shelf life and needs to be stored properly once opened. Again, manufacturers have embraced the challenge and developed easy, effective ways to keep our wet pet food fresh and safe, for our hungry fur crews.

Genetic Research Aims to Improve Health of Working Farm Dogs

While many of us share our lives with our beloved pets, companions who fill our lives and homes with joy, there’s an entire population of dogs whose dedication extends beyond the backyard: the working farm dogs. These unsung heroes of the farming world put in long, hard hours, and just like our own pets, they deserve the best possible care. That’s why a groundbreaking research initiative in New Zealand is making headlines.Scientists are working to unlock the genetic secrets that can improve the health and performance of these working dogs, ultimately leading to a better quality of life. This is being done through a three-year project at Massey University, named “ The Right Dog for the Job.” Supported by industry partners and the Ministry for Primary Industries, the researchers have recently hit a significant milestone: the whole-genome sequencing of 249 dogs. This extensive work and analysis have uncovered a staggering 19 million DNA variations within the sampled population, which include 130 huntaways, 104 heading dogs, and 15 crossbreeds. While the impressively large number of variations may sound complex and overwhelming, the project's ultimate goal is straightforward: to provide farmers and breeders with valuable information to make informed breeding decisions, leading to healthier and more capable work dogs. The research aims to pinpoint genetic variants (differences in DNA sequences) that could impact a dog’s health or ability to perform these demanding jobs. Professor Matt Littlejohn, who leads the research team, explained that while they could make educated guesses about which variants may be present in farm dogs based on their lineage (such as the influence of border collies), the genome sequencing allows them to know for sure. And, as it turns out, it uncovered a few interesting surprises! Two unexpected findings stood out: the prevalence of variants in the CUBN and CLN8 genes. The CUBN variant is linked to vitamin B12 malabsorption, which can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. Thankfully, this condition can be managed with treatment, making this proactive testing a valuable tool. The CLN8 variant, on the other hand, is associated with a severe neurodegenerative disorder causing loss of motor function, seizures, and blindness, often leading to euthanasia. While the percentage of animals carrying this variation wasn’t extremely high (between 2% and 8% of dogs tested), their frequency in New Zealand farm dogs was higher than observed in many other international breeds. It's important to understand that these genetic variants are recessive. This means that a dog must inherit two copies of the muted gene, one from each parent, to develop the associated health issues. Dogs carrying only one copy are known as carriers and don’t show any symptoms themselves. Awareness of which dogs are carrying these variants can help breeders make informed decisions on which dogs are fit for breeding, significantly minimizing the risk of producing puppies suffering from these genetic diseases. This not only improves the health and well-being of individual dogs but also contributes to the overall resilience of these working breeds. In its next stage, the project will involve collecting even more DNA samples and working closely with farmers and veterinarians to gather data on both health and working performance traits. It will also focus on identifying genetic variants unique to New Zealand farm dogs, with the initial findings being genetic variants known from other breeds. The “Right Dog for the Job” project is a testament to the commitment to providing these hard-working animals the best possible quality of life! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

How to Build a Bond with Your New Rescue Dog

Bringing home a rescue dog is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have - for both you and your new companion. But it’s also a big transition, especially for dogs who may have experienced abandonment, neglect, or trauma in their past.That’s why building a strong bond with your rescue dog isn’t something that happens overnight. It takes time, patience, and a whole lot of understanding. But with the right approach, you’ll create something truly special: a trusting, lifelong relationship rooted in love.Here’s how to begin that journey, one step at a time.Start with Space and PatienceThe first few days in a new home can be overwhelming for a rescue dog. Everything is unfamiliar - sights, sounds, smells, and people - and it can cause real anxiety.One of the best things you can do? Give your dog space to adjust.Let them explore the home at their own paceSet up a quiet, cozy area where they can retreatAvoid forcing interaction or physical affectionSome dogs will come to you right away. Others need time to feel safe. Let them set the pace.Establish a Calm, Predictable RoutineDogs thrive on routine - especially those recovering from unstable pasts. A regular schedule helps create a sense of safety and predictability.Try to:Feed at the same times each dayKeep walks, bathroom breaks, and playtime consistentOffer a regular bedtime or wind-down ritualThe more predictable life becomes, the more confident and secure your dog will feel.Use Positive ReinforcementWhen it comes to training and bonding, positive reinforcement is your best friend.Reward good behavior with treats, praise, or gentle affectionKeep training sessions short and low-pressureCelebrate the little wins - sitting, coming when called, or just making eye contactAvoid punishment or harsh corrections. Fear-based methods can damage trust, especially with dogs who may already be unsure of people.

Research Aims to Uncover the Effects of Small Pets on Human Well-Being

Many articles have been published about the benefits of pets on mental health and overall happiness, but they’re usually focused on the perks of sharing your home with a cat or dog. Well, the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) wants to change that. They announced a grant that will allow researchers at the University of Liverpool to look into the impacts of small animals as pets. Their goal is to find out if small pets have an effect on people’s well-being, too.