Should I Feed My Dog In a Raised Dish?
The use of an elevated feeder may appear, at the surface, to be a matter of design and aesthetics. But your choice of feeding bowl can significantly impact your dog’s health and well-being more than you might think. The height of your dog’s feeding bowls can influence their comfort and digestion, among other things. Elevated feeding bowls, in particular, have gained popularity among pet owners in recent years.But is an elevated feeder the right choice for your dog? Should you be making a change to your dog’s mealtime routine and setup?In this guide, I’ll share the potential benefits of elevated feeding bowls and what you should consider when deciding whether a raised feeder is suitable for your dog. I will explain how these bowls can improve your dog’s posture, aid digestion, and reduce joint strain. Plus, I’ll address the potential drawbacks of using a raised dish to help you make an informed decision for your canine companion.Are Raised Dishes Good for Dogs? This has long been a debate in the pet world. Why is the discussion of raised feeders so polarizing? The research simply isn’t there to give a concrete answer as to whether they benefit our dogs or put them at risk. Furthermore, with the information that is available, experts say the answer will vary from dog to dog. Some pups will benefit greatly from using these feeders, while others may be at higher risk for trouble. Deciding whether or not to use a raised dish starts with learning the pros and cons of these products. I also recommend discussing your dog’s unique needs and risk factors with your veterinarian. This will allow you to make an educated decision. With that in mind, let’s break down the benefits and possible disadvantages… Benefits of Raised Feeders for Dogs Why should you consider using a raised dish? In some situations, elevating your dog’s dish could make mealtime more accessible, more comfortable, and even cleaner… Here are a few of the most common benefits and reasons people reference for choosing to switch to a raised dish:Reduced Strain When Eating Arguably, the most important reason to consider using a raised feeder (and the reason that leads veterinarians to recommend their use) is how they limit the strain associated with bending down to reach a dish sitting on the ground. Stretching their neck down to a traditional dog bowl may not seem like a big deal for many dogs, especially smaller or toy breeds who are already close to the ground. However, for others, it can put a lot of strain on the body trying to reach down. This benefit is most associated with dogs who are living with: Age-related limited mobility Arthritis Spinal conditions Orthopedic conditions or injuries Joint disorders or injuries Keep the Mess ContainedDo you have a dog that makes a big mess when eating or drinking? We have all met at least one dog that leaves behind a puddle after quenching their thirst. Many raised feeders are designed to incorporate features that keep the mess contained. This includes preventing spills and trapping any food/water to keep it from landing on your floor. Stop Chasing the Dish Whether your dog struggles with eating while their dish slides across the floor or has a habit of pawing at their dish, knocking it around the room, a raised feeder can help to prevent the dish from moving. This movement can complicate mealtime either by creating frustration as they try to eat or by creating a mess (going back to the previous point). There are no-slip bowl designs that can help to address this problem. However, a raised feeder that securely holds the dish in place up and away from your dog’s paws and any slippery floors will eliminate the problem entirely in most cases. Possible Drawbacks of Using Raised Dishes Once believed to prevent bloat by adjusting the position a dog is eating at, further study revealed the opposite may be true. Bloat, or gastric dilation-volvulus (GDV), is a potentially life-threatening situation where the stomach fills with food, fluid, or gas and flips or twists. This rotation cuts off the entrance and exit of the stomach, preventing the contained substances from continuing to travel through the digestive system and cutting off blood flow to the rest of the body (including vital organs). It is a life-threatening emergency. So, the big question is – Do raised dog dishes cause bloat? The answer is maybe.A study out of Purdue University suggested that large and giant dog breeds may increase their risk of bloat when eating from a raised feeding bowl.Of the dogs in the study, approximately 52% of GDV cases were attributed to the feeder. However, many experts question elements of the study, saying it wasn’t an accurate representation as it failed to account for other potential facts. For example, the pet parents feeding with a raised dish in the study were those who chose to do sorather than assigning their use and establishing a control group. This means there could be other related lifestyle factors to consider. Further research is needed to finally answer this question once and for all.
At What Age Should I Start Socializing My Dog?
Socialization is one of the most critical aspects of raising a well-adjusted and confident dog. Proper socialization helps prevent fear, anxiety, and aggression while fostering positive interactions with people, other animals, and new environments. But when is the right time to start? The short answer: as early as possible. However, different stages of a dog’s life require different approaches. Here’s what you need to know.The Critical Socialization Period: 3 to 16 WeeksPuppyhood is the optimal time for socialization. Puppies go through a crucial developmental window between 3 and 16 weeks of age, during which they are most receptive to new experiences. Exposing them to various sights, sounds, and situations during this period helps them grow into well-mannered adult dogs.When to BeginThe American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) recommends starting socialization as early as 7 to 8 weeks old, even before full vaccination. However, exposure must be done in safe, controlled environments to minimize health risks. Structured puppy classes, playdates with fully vaccinated dogs, and supervised outings can be excellent ways to introduce new experiences safely.Effective Socialization StrategiesSuccessful socialization involves controlled, positive exposure to a wide variety of experiences. Here’s how you can help your puppy develop confidence:Introduce New People: Expose your puppy to people of different ages, appearances, and voices. This helps prevent fear of strangers later in life.Expose to Different Environments: Take your puppy to pet-friendly locations, parks, and sidewalks. Introduce them to common sounds such as traffic, doorbells, and household appliances.Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward calm and friendly behavior with treats and praise. This creates positive associations with new experiences.Organize Puppy Playdates: Arrange supervised play sessions with vaccinated puppies or well-behaved adult dogs to encourage good social behavior.Introduce Different Surfaces and Objects: Let your puppy walk on different textures like grass, pavement, sand, and carpet. Exposure to unusual objects such as umbrellas, bicycles, and strollers can help prevent fear reactions in the future.Acclimate to Handling: Regularly touch your puppy’s paws, ears, and mouth to prepare them for grooming and veterinary visits. Reward them for remaining calm during handling exercises.
What Should I Do if My Dog Won't Stop Coughing?
Imagine waking up in the middle of the night to the sound of your dog’s persistent coughing. It’s a scenario that no pet parent wants to face, one that can bring panic and stress. But it’s also an important reminder about one crucial point: Coughing in dogs, while sometimes seemingly minor, can be a sign of underlying health issues – some of which can be pretty serious!The causes of a dog’s cough can vary from simple irritations to more concerning medical conditions. That’s why it’s so important to recognize that a persistent cough isn’t something to ignore.This blog post will provide the information you need to better understand your dog’s cough, identify the potential causes, and (most importantly) know when to seek immediate veterinary help. I will share the different types of coughs, how to recognize the more common causes, and steps you can take to prevent that unwanted cough; keeping your dog happy and healthy.Understanding Coughing in DogsCoughing is a natural reflex designed to clear the airways of irritants. An occasional cough might not be a cause for alarm. In fact, it may even be healthy. For example, if your dog was sniffing outdoors and inhaled a bunch of pollen, coughing could effectively clear this common allergen out of their system. But a persistent cough is a different story.Your dog’s ongoing or constant coughing could signal that something isn’t right, and paying attention is crucial. Understanding the nuances of your dog’s cough and communicating them to your veterinarian can help you reach a diagnosis and find a suitable treatment option faster.Here are the most common types of canine coughs:Honking Cough: Often described as sounding like a goose, this type of cough is frequently associated with kennel cough or tracheal collapse.Dry, Hacking Cough: This type of cough might point towards kennel cough as well, but it could also be triggered by many common allergies or other irritants your dog has been exposed to.Wet, Productive Cough: A wet cough often sounds like your dog is bringing something up. This can be more concerning and is usually associated with pneumonia, heart disease, or other severe medical conditions.Coughing Followed by Vomiting or Gagging: While sometimes seen with kennel cough, it could signal something more serious if your dog is vomiting after they cough.The distinction between these different types is so important. By carefully noting the specific sound and characteristics of your dog’s cough, you can provide your veterinarian with key information they may not be able to collect during an appointment. We’ve all been to a vet appointment where we’ve tried to explain what’s happening because it somehow magically stopped the moment we walked through the door.A short video recording on your phone can be incredibly helpful, allowing your vet to hear the cough firsthand.Common Causes of Coughing in DogsSeveral factors can contribute to your dog’s cough, ranging from minor ailments to serious medical conditions. As a responsible and loving dog parent, I recommend learning the most common causes and what other symptoms to look out for to help you better understand what your dog is experiencing.Kennel Cough (Infectious Tracheobronchitis)This highly contagious respiratory infection often spreads in places where large numbers of dogs congregate, such as boarding facilities, dog parks, and kennels. It’s characterized by a distinctive “honking” cough, which may be accompanied by other cold-like symptoms. While kennel cough will often clear up on its own (much like a human cold), sometimes antibiotics or cough suppressants are necessary. Fortunately, vaccination is an effective preventative measure, especially if you know your dog often frequents high-risk areas.Tracheal CollapseThis occurs when the trachea, or windpipe, weakens. Tracheal collapse most often affects small breeds, but it can happen in any size of dog. The hallmark symptom is a goose-like “honking” couch, which can worsen with excitement or exercise. If you suspect you may be dealing with tracheal collapse, contact your veterinarian. Treatment options include medications, weight management, and, in some cases, surgery.Heart DiseaseThe heart is likely not the first thing that comes to mind when considering the cause of a cough, but coughing can be a significant symptom of heart disease, particularly heart failure. This couch is often worse at night or after exercise and may be accompanied by other signs of heart trouble, like fatigue, weakness, and difficulty breathing. If your dog is diagnosed with heart disease, they will need ongoing management of the underlying heart condition by your veterinarian.Pneumonia Pneumonia, an inflammation of the lungs, can be caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. It is typically associated with a wet, productive cough. Other common symptoms of pneumonia in dogs include:FeverDifficulty breathing or swallowingNasal dischargeRapid heart rateAltered moodChanges in appetiteLethargy or sluggishnessTreatment for pneumonia usually involves antibiotics. Your dog may also require supportive care, addressing some of the symptoms to allow their body to heal. For example, if your dog is struggling with loss of appetite, your vet may recommend an appetite stimulant.Allergies and IrritantsJust like humans, dogs can suffer from environmental allergies and react to inhaled irritants like smoke, dust, and pollen. These allergies and irritants usually trigger a dry, hacking cough. You may also notice other signs your dog is suffering from allergies, such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, ear infections, inflamed skin, and paw licking. Treatment usually involves antibiotics and supportive care.Canine DistemperThis serious and potentially fatal viral illness is thankfully preventable through vaccination. However, if you have a young puppy who hasn’t completed their puppy vaccination schedule, they are at risk. Coughing is one of the most common symptoms, along with fever and neurological signs. If you suspect your dog may have distemper, it is an emergency and requires immediate veterinary care. Treatment is supportive and often intensive.
Should I Give My Dog Supplements?
Are you wondering if you should give your dog supplements, in addition to his diet? Your dog food dollars can go a lot further if you do!In a recent study by InClover Research (independent pet supplement company out of Boulder, CO), they found in analyzing Google Trend data that “pet supplement” searches are at an all-time high! That’s almost 300 times higher than ever before. So, what does this mean as a pet parent? Is it time to give your dog vitamins? Aren’t dogs getting enough nutrition from the food they eat?We asked InClover’s Founder and President, Rebecca Rose the same question.“I used to believe your pet’s food was a baseline indicator of their health — I don’t believe that anymore.” Rebecca is a biochemist gone rogue, so to speak. She’s dedicated her life to researching optimal nutrition and health and her passion for pets carried her into founding and owning InClover Research. It’s a pet supplement company based in Boulder, CO, that prides itself on blending the wholistic and allopathic properties of nutrition to optimize your pet’s health.Breaking down the PROS of PREbioticsThe market is flooded with pet supplements, including infamous CBD cure-alls. There is no single supplement that is guaranteed to fix all ailments, especially in pets. But for pet owners looking to promote hip and joint function, optimize their pet’s digestion, strengthen their immunity, and thrive in their best health, there are a few places we’d start.What’s the difference between prebiotics and probiotics (which should I use)?Prebiotics selectively feed only the good bacteria in your pet’s gut — this allows native bacteria to flourish while starving the bad bacteria. Probiotics are usually from dairy strains and soil — most will die at fluctuating temperatures and low pH so aren’t as potent in promoting optimal digestion.Do prebiotics help pet digestion? The answer is YES! A 2020 report from Lumina found prebiotics are a personalized approach to growing the beneficial native bacteria in the digestive tract. Prebiotics were also the 2020 marketplace winner for human supplement revenue growth with CBD products showing the biggest decline.Did you know, 70 percent of your pet’s immune system is housed in their digestive tract? Apart from prebiotics being a powerhouse for nutrition, prebiotics are also great for digestive health, immune support and weight control in dogs and cats. Giving your dog/cat a daily prebiotic like those made by InClover, including Optagest, can have profound impact their overall health.How does it work?Optagest is the ONLY clinically tested digestive aid with USDA organic inulin. Inulin works with digestive enzymes to help break down food in your pet’s GI tract, allowing for better nutrient absorption. This helps you get the most bang for your buck when it comes to feeding your dog- hey, you invest in quality dog food, might as well make the most of it, right?How do you know digestive supplements like Optagest are working?Like we said, Rebecca dedicated her life to pet health and as a biochemist, didn’t stop working until she knew her product worked. Optagest works fast — typically within 1-3 days depending on your pet’s unique body type.What can you expect when you start your dog/cat on prebiotics?Normal stools, and normal odorLess digestive upsets (vomiting)Balanced digestion (less gas and bloating- especially common in bully breeds)Sweetened breathSupplements only work if you take them! Creating new habits for ourselves and our pets can be challenging but worth the reward, especially when it comes to seeing our pets live their best lives.If digestion isn’t pulling at you, consider creating health habits for your dog/cat dental health. Along with a full range of supplements InClover manufactures, BioBrilliant is one of their must-haves. BioBrilliant is a great choice for pet parents investing in long term mouth, and dental health.A Bit More About Dental HealthPeriodontal disease is one of the most common health problems found in pets? The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that 80 percent of dogs by the age of 2, will have some form of periodontal disease, and 85 percent of cats by the age of 4 will be affected by dental disease. Crazy, right?Again, there is no magic dust you can sprinkle on your dog’s food to give them beautiful teeth overnight, but daily use of BioBrilliant helps dissolve plaque, sweeten their breath, and promote positive gum health helping keep our dogs and cats comfortable during mealtime and any other time, which makes us very happy too.Picking the right supplement shouldn’t be a guessing game, and all InClover’s supplements are sourced with carefully considered ingredients including, the Goat’s Milk Whey that goes into every bottle of BioBrilliant. InClover sources this sweet treat from a farm in Maine (and we can assure you, the goats are EXTREEMLY cute).Apart from providing the highest quality supplements, InClover believes in operating at the highest standards for not only the health of our pets, but for our planet as well. The Pet Sustainability Coalition has recognized InClover as a Top Impact Award Winner for 2020 with appreciation for sustainable business practices in everything from product manufacturing to running their offices out of a 100% wind-powered facility. InClover is also committed to carbon-offsets and dedicates $0.05 of every purchase made on their site to sustainable practices close to their hearts. Click here to learn more about InClover pet supplements and their commitment to sustainability.
What Should I Do If My Dog Is Anxious Around Holiday Guests?
The holiday season is nearly here! Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year—these festive celebrations bring joy, delicious food, and cherished moments with loved ones. But amidst the laughter and excitement, the hustle and bustle can be overwhelming for your dog. Unfamiliar faces, loud noises, and changes to their routine might leave them feeling stressed or anxious. So how can you ensure your furry friend enjoys the holidays as much as you do? Here are some tips to help.Recognizing Signs of Anxiety in DogsBefore you can ease your dog’s anxiety, it’s important to recognize the signs of distress in your pet and act quickly. The sooner you realize your pooch is uncomfortable in this new environment, it will be easier for you to make sure you can help them calm down and feel at ease once again. Here are some of the most common symptoms of anxiety in dogs:Pacing: Walking nervously and struggling to settle down.Hiding: Retreating to a quiet corner or another room.Vocalizing: Excessive barking or whining as a signal of distress.Trembling or Panting: Shaking or heavy breathing unrelated to heat or exercise.Aggression: Snapping or growling unexpectedly.If you notice these behaviors, it’s a sign your pup is feeling overwhelmed.Preparing for the HolidaysThe best way to reduce holiday stress for your dog is to plan ahead! Even if you’re unsure if your pet will be uneasy around festive activities and guests in your home, it pays to be prepared in case they do.#1 Create a Safe SpaceDesignate a quiet, comfortable spot where your dog can relax away from the commotion. Include essentials like water, treats, toys, and a cozy bed to make the space inviting.
Is Your Dog Sleeping Too Much? Here Are Some Tricks to Beating Boredom
(photo credit: Elena Lozu / shutterstock.com)Full disclosure: I had always lived with cats. And boy, do they like to sleep. So, when I adopted my two Schnoodles seven years ago, I anticipated a fun surge of energy in my home. I expected them to be alert and moving throughout the house continually. Someone at the door? They’re on it. The fridge door opens? They’re right there to check out the situ. Fast forward, and… not so much. The reality? I was amazed by how much they liked to snooze (and snore, but that’s another story).Who knew that adult dogs sleep an average of 11 hours a day? Not quite as much as a feline who can clock up to 15 hours of power napping, but pretty dang close.Now, if your dog is creeping north of 11 hours, it could be cause for concern. Issues like diabetes or painful ailments such as arthritis, and even hypothyroidism may need to be ruled out by your veterinarian. But another cause for why your little buddy is sleeping so much could be depression. And that’s something you can do something about. You see, a good mood booster for any dog can be regular exercise and sufficient mental stimulation to keep him well-occupied throughout the day.Let’s talk about that last one. For me, there is one common denominator that will instantly engage a napping dog. Food. And when they have to make an effort to locate it, they’re now intrigued. Add in one more element – they have to work for it – and I’m now ticking that mental stimulation box.I know with my, now trio of pooches, they’re looking for something fun yet relatively easy. It has to appeal to their love of foraging (they all have that Schnauzer hunt drive) as well as their relatively short attention span. Meaning they won’t work for long if a reward is not proffered early into the quest and at regular intervals thereafter.With this in mind, there are a few options out there that don’t take a lot of effort to figure out. Best of all, these mentally stimulating dog toys net your buddy immediate gratification (treats) to get him started.
Tripping Over Cat Toys? Problem Solved!
(photo credit: New Africa / shutterstock.com)Are you tired of stepping on squeaky toys and finding plush playthings tucked behind sofa cushions and under furniture each morning? If your home is like mine, my two felines tend to “harvest” their loot sometime during the wee hours of the morning. That’s when I’m asleep and they’re roaming the house for something to do. Swat a catnip mouse around for a while, cart a fuzzy toy about, drop them both and search for something else to hunt down and parade around. Mornings at my home look like a PetSmart war zone with fluffy bits and pieces discarded all over the place.Now, I’m not suggesting that you can train a cat to put her toys back where she got them, but having a dedicated space means that all her stuff can be centrally located and, at least for the better part of a day, you get to reclaim your living space and stash her booty in a handy little bin that she can access later on - after hours.
NC Rainbow Bridge Memorial Swept Away By Hurricane Helene Flood Waters
Hurricane Helene has swept across much of the southeastern United States, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Homes were damaged, trees uprooted, and lives disrupted. For those in its path, this storm has unapologetically changed life as they know it. Log into any social media platform, and you’ll see heartbreaking photos and videos of the devastation. However, one announcement has broken the hearts of pet parents across the country and around the world – the loss of a cherished rainbow bridge memorial in Lake Lure, North Carolina.
Ready to De-Stress Bath Time for Your Dog?
(photo credit: Gudman / shutterstock.com)I was raised to believe you shouldn’t bathe a dog because it would deplete the natural oils in their fur and dry out their skin. Back in the day, it was assumed that a dog’s ability to self-groom was sufficient to take care of whatever clean-up they might need.Fast forward, and with dogs sleeping in our beds and snuggling on our sofas, we’re suddenly much more aware of the need to keep our pets well-groomed and yes, smelling fresher.Aesthetics aside, bathing your dog not only allows you to check for ticks, sores, and lumps that shouldn’t be there, but a periodic scrub can also keep his skin and hair, healthy. With some breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, and West Highland Terriers (to name a few), a skin condition called Seborrhea can be common. Yes, just like with humans it’s down to an increased production of skin cells and/or skin oils.When it’s the dry version, you get flaky, scaly skin cells (dandruff) caused by excess keratin production. When oily, you get a waxy substance comes from the sebaceous glands which causes your dog’s coat to look greasy.Whether your pooch falls into the above category or he simply loves to dig, burrow, and roll in whatever he can when given the chance, cleaning him up is something you both deserve.
Are The New Pet Dryer Boxes Right for Your Pet?
(photo credit: Dorottya Mathe / shutterstock.com)It looks like a toaster oven crossed with a microwave. And while I wouldn’t suggest defrosting your frozen dinner in one, it does a pretty nifty job of drying smaller pets quickly and relatively stress-free. What it is, is a drying box and they’re being touted as a great alternative to those noisy blow dryers that typically blast out a single jet of hot air. Those hand-held devices are time-consuming when it comes to targeting all those furry little nooks and crannies and can be downright uncomfortable if directed at any one area for too long.The gadget we’re talking about here is not to be confused with dog crate dryers that clip onto your pet’s cage and direct a steady stream of warm air into the crate and around your pet. A drying box is totally sealed. Your pet goes inside and the box then fills with multiple streams of warm air that cover 360 degrees to ensure a full dry. And unlike the crate dryer, you don’t have to worry about your pet moving out of range.What I love is how quietly they operate. Less noise equals less stress in my household. However, whenever you’re talking about heating and pets, there are concerns that pet parents need to consider before using this type of dryer.Even though they have heat settings of up to 99 minutes, never leave your pet for that length of time without having them within your sightline. I think that goes without saying.Always watch your pet’s reaction to being enclosed in this type of dog coat dryer. If he’s panicked, stressed, or panting, get him out. Heat stroke is real and needs immediate attention.This type of device isn’t a smart pick for brachycephalic dogs or those with breathing issues. It’s an enclosed space that heats up quickly and you already know your dog cannot cool himself down efficiently.Only consider drying boxes that allow you to set the temperature and have ventilation for adequate air movement. Stuffy, too warm, and uncomfortable mean your pet will never agree to go into the box again.I’m prone to the options that offer side openings so you can reach in and pet your dog or cat. It’s just a little reassurance that our buddies always appreciate.
Great Dane Draws Ire From Fellow Plane Passengers
Claimed to be an emotional support dog, Instagram followers share their thoughts.
Cat Breeds That Actually Like Water
Cats have a reputation for not liking water and avoiding getting wet. But there are several cat breeds that actually love water, don’t mind getting wet, and will even go swimming without a complaint. Of course, every cat is an individual, so even among breeds that are generally known for liking water, you might find kitties who aren’t fans of doing anything other than drinking it. If you’re interested in bringing home a cat who likes water, here’s a list of some of the breeds that you can consider.
How to Prevent Your Dog from Jumping on People
Dogs jumping on people may seem like a sign of excitement and affection, but it can be problematic, especially for children, elderly individuals, or anyone uncomfortable with an energetic greeting. Fortunately, with the right training and consistency, you can teach your dog to greet people more politely.Why Do Dogs Jump?Jumping is a natural behavior for dogs. Puppies often jump on their mother to get attention, and many dogs continue this behavior with humans. If jumping is reinforced - whether by petting, talking, or even pushing the dog away - it becomes a learned habit. The key to stopping this behavior is to teach an alternative, more acceptable way to greet people.Training Techniques to Prevent JumpingOne of the most effective ways to stop your dog from jumping is to ignore the behavior. Dogs often jump for attention, so turning away, crossing your arms, and avoiding eye contact can teach them that jumping doesn't get the reaction they seek. Instead, reward them only when they have all four paws on the ground. Reinforcing calm behavior with treats and praise will help them understand what is expected.
China's Puppy Mountain Pix Go Viral
Resting pooch by Yangtze River draws pet loving tourists.
4 Hairless Cat Breeds
Although you might be familiar with the Sphynx cat, there are other hairless breeds that are just as intriguing and worth checking out if you want to add a rare hairless kitty to your household. Here are four hairless cat breeds and some of their distinctive features.
Can Dogs Get Car Sick?
Most dogs jump at the chance to ride shotgun, but that doesn’t mean all of them will end up actually enjoying driving around in a car. Some dogs, despite their initial enthusiasm, can get car sick. Those who have taken their dogs on car journeys previously have perhaps seen their pets drooling, whining, and being restless in the back seat. The truth about this is that they were likely car sick.Just like humans, dogs can also experience car sickness. For them, however, this sickness varies in frequency and severity, often depending on the individual dog and their age and breed. It will go a long way to actually know what influences car sickness and how to recognize it. Most importantly, it will make the journey much better for all.What Causes Car Sickness In Dogs?The reasons why dogs get sick during car rides are pretty much what you’d think. The motion of the car, especially on winding roads, paired with unfamiliar settings and anxiety, can quickly lead to nausea. Younger dogs and puppies are particularly susceptible to motion sickness due to their inner ear not being fully developed. This underdeveloped part of the ear, which helps with balance, makes younger dogs more sensitive to movement. For many dogs, this sensitivity decreases as they age and their special vestibular systems mature.And it is not just the motion of the car – it is the stressful experience that a car ride can be for some dogs. First-time car riders can often get scared and nauseated. And, of course, if your dog connects the car ride with something unpleasant (like a trip to the vet), they might quickly become anxious and sick. Try to make the ride more pleasant for them, perhaps by bringing their favorite comforting snuggle toy.
Dog Banned from Crufts after Losing Tail to ‘Happy Tail Syndrome’
The dream of Crufts glory has been shattered for Welsh dog mom Sophie Scott-Thomas and her Dalmatian/Vizsla cross Gwen – but they aren’t giving up that easily! Scott-Thomas started obedience training with Gwen when she was just a young puppy, and after years of hard work and dedication, the two were selected for the Crufts 2025 Welsh team. Unfortunately, their celebrations were quickly short when, just hours later, they were informed that Gwen wouldn’t qualify for competing due to her tail. Gwen, an overly happy and joyful pup, ran into trouble when her excessive happiness led to medical trouble. The pup suffered from a condition known as “happy tail syndrome,” where a dog’s tail becomes severely injured due to excessive tail wagging. After suffering wounds and dislocations in her tail, her vet recommended having the tail medically amputated to prevent future injuries. Unfortunately, that medical decision would cost Gwen her chance to compete at Crufts. Docking a dog’s tail is illegal in the UK for most dog breeds, leading to a DEFRA (Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs) placing a blanket ban on dogs with docked tails being shown at a fee-paying event. This means that the removal of Gwen’s tail disqualified her. Now, Scott-Thomas has made it her mission to draw attention to how unfair this blanket ban is for dogs who had their tail docked for reasons other than aesthetics. "It feels like we're being penalized for doing something in her best interests," Scott-Thomas shared. "I now feel as though all the time, effort, and energy we’ve invested has been wasted. This rule is unfair, outdated, and deeply discouraging for dog owners and handlers like me who have worked tirelessly to pursue their passion for competitive obedience."When questioned by the media about the rule, DEFRA officials doubled down, stating that it is in place to discourage unnecessary tail docking for cosmetic reasons. They clarified that the intention with the band isn’t to restrict those who make medical-based decisions but rather to limit the popularity of tail docking for aesthetic or cosmetic reasons. The Kennel Club, organizers of Crufts, emphasized their obligation to comply with the Animal Welfare Act of 2006. "Sadly, there is no provision within the legislation for a dog which has had its tail docked on medical grounds to be shown at an event where the public pay admission fees, unless it is a certified working dog as defined within the regulations," a spokesperson explained.But Scott-Thomas wasn’t ready to give up on her dream. She has now launched a petition to amend the legislation to recognize and make an exception for dogs with medically docked tails, allowing them to compete in shows. The petition has quickly gained support, making it clear that she isn’t the only dog lover feeling this way! While the petition may appear to focus on a very specific situation on the surface, it opens the doors for a much bigger conversation by calling for a more nuanced approach to animal welfare regulations. If you want to show your support for Gwen and believe that dogs with medically necessary tail amputations should be allowed to compete in events like Crufts, you can sign the petition HERE. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.
How to Make a DIY Cat Deterrent Spray
As a cat parent, we love our feline friends, but let’s be honest, sometimes their natural instincts can seriously clash with our home décor. The frustration of discovering claw marks on your favorite sofa, finding your beloved houseplants overturned and dug up, or worse, dealing with territorial marking in your house is an experience that many of us share.I understand the desire to find a humane and effective solution to protect our homes without harming our cats. After all, our cats are family, and we want to coexist peacefully. The goal is not to punish them but to guide their behavior in a positive direction.Cat deterrent sprays offer several advantages, discouraging our kitties from engaging in unwanted behaviors in specific areas. Creating a DIY cat deterrent spray may be the perfect option for those seeking a budget-friendly solution or who like to control the substances coming into their home.In this article, I’ll share how to make a safe and effective cat deterrent spray. Plus, I’ll discuss the other factors to consider when setting your cat up for success, including long-term behavior medication, positive reinforcement, and other cat-proofing options.Understanding Cat BehaviorBefore I go into the details about making and using a cat deterrent spray, let’s step back and start at the beginning. It’s essential to understand why cats engage in the behaviors we find problematic. Scratching, for example, is far more than just a destructive behavior. It’s a natural instinct that serves many important purposes, including: Claw Maintenance: Allowing them to shed old nail sheaths Territorial Marking: Leaving both a visual and scent cueEmotional Release: A way to express frustration or excitementSimilarly, marking (often through spraying urine or rubbing cheeks) is also a form of communication. Cats use scent to establish territory, signal their presence, and even share their emotions like stress or anxiety. Is your cat urinating outside their litter box? There are several possible reasons why your cat is doing their business in an unwanted location, including medical issues, stress, or problems with the litter box itself (location, type of litter, type of litter box, etc.). The first step to finding a solution is to make an appointment with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions before considering it a behavioral problem. Suppressing these behaviors with a deterrent spray isn’t a long-term solution. Instead, you will need to identify the root cause of the problem and address it directly. For example, if your cat is scratching your furniture, try offering several scratching posts in various materials and locations to redirect their instincts to a positive outlet. Enriching their environment with toys, climbing structures, and interactive play can alleviate boredom and reduce stress-related marking. If your cat is experiencing anxiety, I recommend consulting a cat behaviorist. These professionals are uniquely skilled at identifying triggers and can help you develop a tailored plan to create a more positive home environment for your best friend. Finally, it’s important to remember that cats experience scents far differently than we do. Their sense of smell is far more sensitive than ours, allowing them to detect and identify subtle differences and interpret information from a scent we can’t. This is why they use scent as a significant part of their communication. This sensitive sense of smell is also why scents like citrus or vinegar are so effective at discouraging your cat from going in or near areas that you’re trying to protect. Choosing the Right Ingredients Onto the reason you’re reading this – how to make your own DIY cat deterrent spray. Selecting the right ingredients is crucial for both effectiveness and your cat’s safety. Essential oils, concentrated plant extracts, are popular as they offer strong scents that work well to deter cats. However, not all essential oils are safe for use around cats. Most importantly, even those that are safe for use around your cat must be handled and used with safety in mind. Always dilute essential oils significantly and consult your veterinarian before using them on your cat. Some essential oils can be extremely harmful, even fatal, if ingested, inhaled, or even absorbed through their skin. Luckily, several essential oils are considered safe and effective in diluted forms for cat deterrents. Citrus oils like orange and lemon often serve as the active ingredient in deterrent sprays as cats generally dislike their strong scents. While calming for humans, lavender can also act as a strong deterrent, but it should be used with caution and in very dilute form. Finally, eucalyptus and peppermint can be used, but sparingly and always diluted, as their strong menthol scents can be overwhelming and potentially irritating. Some essential oils are absolutely toxic to cats and should be avoided entirely. Tea tree oil, pennyroyal, wintergreen, pine, and many others can cause severe health problems, including liver damage, respiratory distress, and even death. These oils should never be used on or near your cat. Beyond essential oils, other ingredients (depending on your recipe) include: White Distilled Vinegar: Diluted with water, this is a common choice due to its strong, acidic scent Citrus Peels: A natural by-product of consuming citrus fruits, can be steeped in water to create a safe and effective citrus-scented deterrent Water: Serves as the base for all these sprays, diluting the other ingredients and allowing for easy application A carrier oil, such as coconut or almond, is essential if you choose to use essential oils. Diluting essential oils in a carrier oil before adding them to water prevents skin irritation and ensures a more even scent distribution. Finally, when possible, opt for organic ingredients. This minimizes the pesticides and other potentially harmful chemicals your cat may be exposed to, helping to create a healthier environment for your best friend.
