Why Your Dog Can't Sleep Through The Night Lately

Animal Shelters Are Becoming Full As More People Are Giving Up Pets

Animal shelters faced heartbreak before, but lately it feels like the tide is washing in harder than ever. Across the U.S., animal shelters are overflowing, standing-room only, because more pet owners are turning in their beloved animals. It’s tough to read, but when you dig into the reasons, you realize how much love is behind each surrender. It’s just people running out of options.Shelter intake numbers climbed to about 5.8 million dogs and cats in 2024, with around 29% surrendered by owners who just couldn’t keep them anymore. In cities like Chicago, owner surrenders have surged. At Chicago Animal Care & Control, surrenders have shot up six-fold compared to 2023, and it’s their job to take every animal that comes in.Even in Wisconsin, shelters report an “unprecedented” increase. The Wisconsin Humane Society had 1,108 pets surrendered in June alone. That’s double last year’s number, and staff are struggling just to find space and time for basic care.At Waukesha County’s Humane Animal Welfare Society, dog intakes are up 13% and cat intakes up 20% over the past year, and they’ve completely paused accepting transfers from other regions just to avoid total collapse.And it’s not just a stray overload. Many surrendered pets are family members. In Chicago, someone waited in line that day to surrender their dog, saying: “If I could afford her, I’d be at the vet right now… you’ve got to choose between living, rent, gas… or the dog”.At Monroe’s Humane Society in Louisiana, they’re designed for about 70 - 75 dogs, but right now have nearly 90, even keeping some free-range in offices because kennel space is gone.What’s behind the rise? Financial pressures top the list. Vet bills, inflation, pet food, grooming, rent, pet deposits, everything costs more. A recent Bank of America Institute report noted that vet care costs have climbed roughly 42% since 2019; pet food, around 22% up. Combine that with eviction threats and pet-incompatible housing, and suddenly, owners who intended to keep their pets forever are making heartbreaking choices.In Philadelphia, staff at ACCT Philly noted that nearly 40% of animals surrendered this year were due to eviction or lack of affordable housing that allows pets. “This isn’t about neglect,” said shelter rep Sarah Barnett, “it’s about survival. Many families are doing the best they can".Behavioral and medical issues also factor in, but far less than economic and housing stress. And there’s another problem, many pets adopted during the pandemic turnout weren’t spayed or neutered, leading to surprise litters and overcrowded homes.So, what are shelters doing to respond? In NYC, the Animal Care Centers paused pet intake for the first time in decades when centers exceeded 1,000 animals, and the backlog is intense. They’ve also secured new public funding to add staff and improve conditions, though critics say it still isn't enough.At local shelters like PAWS in Lynnwood, north of Seattle, dog surrenders are up 37% this year. They’re limiting the intake of stray pets just to manage their capacity. Shelter staff are running on grit, doing everything from food donations to makeshift kennels and urgent foster care to keep animals safe until space opens up.If you're a pet parent, there are things you can do to help! Donate food, supplies, or time. Foster a pet temporarily. If you're thinking of adoption, now is a great time. And for anyone who’s struggling to keep their pet, reach out to local shelters or rescue groups first. Many offer help, including affordable vet clinics or community food programs, to avoid surrender.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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

What to Know Before Getting a Pet Chinchilla

Chinchillas are adorable and full of personality, making them appealing pets for many animal lovers. But before bringing one home, it’s important to understand that these small creatures have unique needs that set them apart from more traditional pets. Let’s dive into what you should know.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Why Is My Pet Bird Losing Feathers?

Feather loss in pet birds can be alarming. Their vibrant plumage is part of what makes them so striking - and when feathers start falling out unexpectedly, it’s often a sign that something’s wrong. While some feather loss is completely normal, other cases may point to a health issue, environmental stress, or behavioral problem.Here’s what you need to know about the most common causes.Molting: Normal Feather LossThe most common reason birds lose feathers is molting, which is a natural process where old or damaged feathers are replaced by new ones. Most pet birds molt once or twice a year, and it can last for several weeks.During molting:You’ll see feathers at the bottom of the cageNew “pin feathers” may poke through the skinYour bird may seem a bit less active but should still be eating and behaving normallyWhen to worry: If the feather loss seems uneven, happens outside of molting season, or is focused in certain areas, it could be a sign of something else.Stress and Environmental FactorsBirds are highly sensitive to changes in their surroundings. Stress can lead to a behavioral issue called feather plucking, where the bird pulls out its own feathers.Possible stressors include:Loud noises or sudden changes in routineBoredom or lack of enrichmentA new pet or person in the householdInadequate lighting or poor cage placementDrafty rooms or fluctuating temperaturesBirds need a consistent day/night cycle, a quiet and safe environment, and regular mental stimulation to stay healthy - both physically and emotionally.

FDA Issues Emergency Use Authorization to Treat Screwworm in Dogs

On October 24, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a statement regarding the use of Credelio for screwworm in dogs. By issuing an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for this medication, they are making a treatment available in the United States for dogs who are diagnosed with New World screwworm (NWS).  

Pet Parents Believe Their Dogs Match Their Personalities

A survey commissioned by Darwin’s Natural Pet Products has found that most dog parents believe they were matched with their dogs by fate. So, if you have always felt a deep connection to your canine companion, or you see that they mirror some of your own personality traits, you’re like a lot of other people who share their homes with dogs.

How to Stop Your Cat from Waking You Up in the Morning

If your cat has turned into a furry, four-legged alarm clock, you're not alone. Many cat owners find themselves being woken up at the crack of dawn by a meowing, pawing, or pouncing pet. The good news? You can actually train your cat to let you sleep in. Here's how.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

4 Things Families Should Discuss Before Bringing a New Pet Home

Bringing a new pet into your home is exciting. There’s nothing quite like the joy of a wagging tail or the purr of a happy cat. But before you rush out to the shelter or breeder, it’s important for the whole family to have a real conversation about what this new addition means. Pets bring love, but they also bring responsibility, time, and a bit of chaos. Here are four things every family should talk through before saying yes to a new furry (or feathery, or scaly) friend.

7-7-7 Rule for Puppies is a Sleep Saver for Pet Parents

Want to know how to get your little guy to sleep through the night? Use this quick guideline to help familiarize him with his new surroundings.

Lost Cat Found After 10 Years

We’ve covered a lot of stories about pets being reunited with their families, thanks to their microchips, and pets who were found after many years away from home. We now have yet another happy story to share with you! A lost cat from New Jersey was found and brought home after 10 years. Read all about it below.

A New Cancer Drug Shows Promise for Both Cats and People

A new drug may be used for treating cancer—more specifically, oral squamous cell carcinoma—according to a clinical trial conducted by researchers in California. Keep reading to learn a bit about this promising treatment and how it might help cats and humans.

How to Tell if Your Dog's Play is Healthy or Heading for Trouble

Play and socialization aren’t just luxuries; they are core components of a happy, well-adjusted life. We know how much joy it brings to watch our dogs run, chase, and wrestle with their friends. Yet the sounds and movements of dog play can be loud, fast, and sometimes intimidating. It often leaves dog parents standing at the sidelines, wondering: “Is that fun, or is that stress?” and “Should I step in right now?”The truth is, distinguishing between a healthy, mutually enjoyable play session and an interaction that’s headed for trouble can feel like trying to decipher a secret canine code.In this post, I am going to share practical, actionable information to help you better understand your dog’s body language during play. I’ll uncover the clear, unmistakable differences between “good play” and “bad play,” a skill that not only prevents fights but also protects your dog’s confidence and ensures they develop the social skills necessary for fun, enjoyable interactions with others. Defining “Good Play”If you’ve ever watched two dogs wrestle and thought, “Wow, that looks rough,” you’re not alone. The truth is that the biggest difference between healthy play and problematic play isn’t the intensity; it’s the quality of the interaction. For a play session to be considered healthy, it needs to include two key elements: reciprocity and self-regulation. When both dogs are on the same page with these concepts, they can have a shared, positive experience.ReciprocityThe most vital sign of good play is reciprocity, meaning both dogs are equally invested and equally enjoying the play session. Think of it like a dance where both partners are taking turns leading and following. A healthy play session should never be entirely one-sided, where one dog is constantly chasing or instigating play while the other is continually on the defensive.Instead, you should see the dogs taking turns. If one dog is doing the chasing, they should soon become the chased. If one dog is playfully pinning the other, they should soon allow themselves to be pinned in return. This constant shifting of roles signals that both dogs are actively consenting and interested in keeping the game going.Another powerful sign of mutual consent is the play bow. This is when a dog lowers their front end while keeping their rear end in the air, as if they are bowing to their playmate. A play bow is a universal canine invitation to play. A confident dog will often use a play bow to initiate an interaction or to punctuate a pause during more intense play. It’s their way of saying, “Just checking that we’re still having fun, right?”Self-RegulationHealthy play requires dogs to have excellent self-control, often called self-handicapping or bite inhibition. Self-handicapping is when a larger, stronger dog deliberately makes themselves more vulnerable so that they are on an even playing field. They are purposefully decreasing their physical advantage to keep the game fair and fun for their playmate. It’s a beautiful display of social intelligence and self-regulation.For example, my two dogs are significantly different in size, with Willow being twice as big as Lucifer. When they play, Willow will roll on her back, slow down mid-run (or stop), or let him pin her down as they wrestle.Equally important is inhibited action. While play biting is a regular part of dog-to-dog play, it must be soft and controlled. A healthy player understands the boundary and will not bite with enough pressure that it causes pain, a yelp, or a sudden change in the other dog’s demeanor. If you see a dog making sharp, uninhibited contact that causes distress, even if it was meant playfully, the interaction is crossing the line into “bad play” territory.Pay Attention to Body Language The most important cue you can look for is your dog’s overall body language. Good play is loose and floppy. When two dogs are having a great time, their muscles are relaxed, their movements are fluid, and they have an open, relaxed posture.  Here are some signs of good play you can watch out for: Their tail wags will be wide, sweeping motions or circular “helicopter” tails. Their mouths will often be slightly open in a soft, “smiling” look. Their eyes will appear soft, not pinched or staring. Even during an intense wrestling match, their bodies should move freely without tension or rigidity. If you can see the effortlessness and ease in their movements, you can usually relax knowing that your pup is enjoying themselves. The Warning Signs of “Bad Play” While we want our dogs to have fun, we must also learn to recognize when play shifts from a positive experience to one rooted in stress, fear, frustration, or even aggression. The moment their actions stop being reciprocal and start being one-sided, you need to pay close attention. “Bad play” isn’t always overt aggression; sometimes it’s simply a lack of consent that pushes a dog into uncomfortable territory or increased anxiety in one dog. The Shift from Fun to Stress One of the first signs that play is heading south is the disappearance of that loose, floppy body language I just discussed. When a dog becomes stressed, their body posture changes dramatically. This is the moment to step back and evaluate whether the situation is still safe for your pup, preparing to intervene if necessary. Keep an eye open for the following: Stiffening and Freezing: This is the biggest visual cue. The dog’s body becomes rigid, their legs straighten, and their movements become jerky rather than fluid. They may momentarily freeze, which is a sign of tension, not relaxation. Hard Stare: A playful gaze is soft and darting; a stare is fixed, intense, and often accompanied by a lowered head. This is called a “hard eye” and is a clear sign of serious intent or discomfort. Vocalization Changes: Playful barks are usually high-pitched and bouncy. Watch out for deep, guttural, or constant low growls, or sharp, high-pitched yelps that signal your pup is experiencing pain or fear, not just excitement.

5 Tips for Taking Better Care of Your Dog’s Paws

Your dog’s paws help them run, play, and explore the world, but they can also get hurt or irritated if not cared for. From hot pavement in summer to cold ice in winter, paws face many challenges. With a little attention, you can keep them healthy and comfortable. Here are five easy 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.

3 Adorable Facts About Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs are some of the sweetest companions you can bring into your home. Their gentle personalities and cute little habits make them incredibly endearing. Whether you already adore them or you are just curious about what makes these small creatures so charming, here are three adorable facts that show why guinea pigs have won so many hearts.

It's Turkey Time! Here are the Holiday Foods Your Pet Can Eat!

As pet owners, we're all familiar with saying no to holiday treats... but what if we could say yes!

How Much Do Cats Sleep?

Cats are known for sleeping through most of the day, but how long do cats sleep, exactly? How many hours per day can you expect your kitty to be sleeping, and what is considered a normal amount of sleep for cats of different ages, from kittens to seniors? We’ve got you covered with answers to all of these questions so you can get to know your feline companion even better.

Thinking of Adopting a Senior Dog? Let's Get You Ready!

(photo credit: Sylvie Pabion Martin / shutterstock.com)I live with three dogs, and two cats and two of the dogs are seniors. For anyone with a senior pet, you know that’s a big statement because older pets require more work. A lot more work. From more attention to ensure they’re not too warm, too cold, tired, off their food or becoming incontinent, to developing a game plan (often with the input of your veterinarian) to help ensure their senior years are as enjoyable as possible. It’s a labour of love that we adjust to as we ease into this new chapter.But what if we chose not to ease into it, but to jump straight in with both feet? Yes, we’re talking about choosing to adopt an older dog. Do you have what it takes? You do if you’re prepared.Anticipate the FutureLet’s start with what you can expect. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), issues related to old age in dogs are not that dissimilar to what a human experiences, including:Vision decline (cataracts and glaucoma)Hearing lossArthritis and a decrease in mobilityCancerKidney diseaseHeart diseaseDiabetesDental issuesSome are more prevalent in certain breeds or dog sizes. Small dogs are known for their dental issues, while larger dogs may be more likely to encounter joint issues due to their size and weight.Outfit Your Home for a Senior DogHow to prepare for an incoming geriatric adoptee? Do your research in advance to understand breed issues. While many adoptable pooches may present as “non-determined” and age may be questionable, your vet can help you come up with a best guess in both regards.From there, let’s talk about how to anticipate the needs and outfit your home for this new arrival.

3 Essential Tips for Welcoming a Senior Dog Into Your Home

Bringing a senior dog into your life can be one of the most rewarding experiences for both you and your new companion. Older dogs often come with a calm, loving presence and a lifetime of personality.However, adopting a senior dog also comes with unique considerations. Here are three important tips to keep in mind.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.