Adoptable Dog of the Week - Marvin

by Angela Vuckovic

Published: September 16th, 2022

Sweet, cuddly, and effortlessly adorable, this charming fella will knock you off your feet! Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Marvin, a 1.5 years old Golden Chinese Shar-Pei, or in other words – a mix between a Golden Retriever and a Shar Pei breed. He even has that trademark blue-black spotted tongue of a Shar Pei! This cutie pie is currently in a shelter in Valley Falls, Kansas, and he is neutered, microchipped, and up to date on his vaccinations. Marvin is a kind-hearted guy that gets along great with other dogs and can be a great companion for families with children.

Marvin’s Tale

Marvin has been waiting for the right people to come for some time now – but through no fault of his own! He’s a big guy but he has an even bigger heart, and he’s the friendliest dog you’ll ever meet – he has such a loveable personality, and adores getting cuddles and being showered with love. Of course, in return, you’ll get a bunch of pooch smooches and snuggles every day! Marvin is also a high-energy dog that will need regular walks and exercise to burn off his extra energy, so he’d love an owner with an active lifestyle that is looking for a four-legged companion for their adventures.

As a friendly, sweet dog, Marvin does well with other canines, too, especially if they are as friendly and nice as he is – but it would be best to do a meet and greet if you already have a pet just to see if their personalities hit it off. He also likes kids and does well both with teenagers and children under the age of 10, but have in mind that he is a large breed dog with a lot of energy so very young and small kiddos might not be the best match – he might accidentally knock them over during playtime.

If Marvin sounds like the perfect pet for your family, contact Jefferson County Humane Society Inc to learn more about him and the adoption process.

Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Adoptable Dog of the Week - Robin

Are you considering adding a new dog to the family, but you’re worried about how they will interact with your current pup? If so, this adorable boy may be the perfect fit! Robin is an adult mutt, but don’t let his lack of pedigree hold you back. He’s currently waiting in Houston, Texas for his forever home, where he’s referred to as “dog’s best friend.” Why? He is happiest spending his days with another dog companion. Included in his adoption fee, Robin will be neutered, microchipped, heartworm tested, and up to date on his vaccinations.Robin’s TaleWhen Robin came into the care of Best Friends Houston, they quickly noticed that he was pretty shy around people. He’s a low-key homebody that would be happiest trading in his social life to spend time at home with another dog friend. This isn’t to say that he will never warm up to some quality time with his people. He does love sharing the couch, taking naps on his person’s bed and enjoys a belly rub from time to time. But he’s not the kind of dog interested in constant attention or travelling to high-traffic public areas.He is a great addition if you already have some furry family members. In the time he has been fostered through Best Friends Houston, he has lived with dogs and cats and gotten along with both. In fact, his ideal home would include a doggy pal he can hang out with.Robin has been working on his basic obedience under the direction of his foster mom. He is housetrained, knows how to sit on command, and takes treats gently from people he feels comfortable with. If you spend a lot of time outdoors in your yard, he’s happy to join in. Many of his favorite things to do are outdoor activities, including playing chase with his dog friends, sunbathing, and letting the local squirrels know who is in charge. When he’s in the house, he’s content playing independently with Kongs and chew toys.If Robin sounds like the perfect fit for you and your family, contact Best Friends Houston for more information. 

Adoptable Dog of the Week – Dash

This dashing doggo will steal your heart in an instant! Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Dash, a year and a half old Siberian Husky mix from Cedar Crest. New Mexico. He is neutered, current on his vaccines, and housetrained. Dash does well with other dogs and doesn’t mind kids, but hasn’t been tested around cats, so there’s no saying how he’d adjust to a feline sibling.Dash’s TaleIt’s not just stunning looks that this gold and white husky mix with piercing blue eyes brings to the table, but a great personality, too! Dash is a 75-pound pooch with a big heart and a goofy personality that will charm you from the get-go. He has a gentle soul and loves nothing more than being showered with love by his humans! He is also very smart, playful, and energetic so he’d love to be with an active family that would bring him on their adventures. Dash is already crate trained, house trained, and really good on leash, so he really is an exemplary doggo! Plus, as he’s very eager to please and loves treats, there’s no saying what more he could learn with an experienced, devoted owner by his side.Dash is a friendly gut and loves other dogs – his new home would ideally have another dog he could play with. He has been around cats, but only one and briefly, so there’s no saying how he’d do with felines in the family – he wasn’t aggressive in this situation, but there’s no saying how he’d do with small animals long-term, particularly because of his size. Dash loves kids but would need to go to a family with older kids, again, purely because of his size, so he wouldn't accidentally knock down a younger child when he’s excited. If you think Dash sounds like a perfect dog for you, contact Siberian Husky Rescue of New Mexico, Inc. to learn more about him and the adoption process.

Adoptable Dog of the Week - Nona

Sweet, goofy, and charming as they come, this little gal is looking to settle down with a furever family! Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Nona, a 3 years old mixed-breed dog from Madison, Wisconsin. She is spayed, up to date on her vaccinations, microchipped, and dewormed. Nona gets along with other dogs and doesn’t seem to mind cats or little kids.Nona’s TaleThis adorable pooch weighs only 16 pounds, but she has a lot of spirit! At first, when she was rescued, she was a bit shy, but now, her personality shines – she is friendly. affectionate, silly, and playful. Nona loves getting pets and head rubs, but she also enjoys playing with all sorts of toys, especially those she can chase after. She’d love to have someone to take her on hikes where she could explore the great outdoors, but she’d be content with having a fenced-in backyard where she could continue with one of her favorite activities – chipmunk stake-outs.Nona was fostered with dogs of all shapes and sizes and has done great with all of them, so she wouldn't mind being adopted into a family that already has a dog. She was also OK with the cat she’d been around – as in didn’t show interest in her – so she could get along with a feline that doesn’t acknowledge her or wants to play. Children are also fine with Nona, as she liked any kid she had a chance to meet – as long as they are respectful and gentle with a dog.She is crate trained and her house training is going great, so you won’t have your hands full with Nona. If she sounds like the perfect dog for your family, contact Paddy's Paws rescue to learn more about her and the adoption process.

Adoptable Dog of the Week – Hannah

This lovely girl needs someone to give her a second chance at a happily ever after! Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Hannah, a six year old Labrador Retriever and Catahoula Leopard Dog mix from Indianapolis, Indiana. She is spayed, current on her shots, and house trained. Hannah doesn’t mind older children and does well with dogs (that have a personality similar to hers), but hasn’t been tested around cats. Hannah’s TaleHannah has been picked up as a stray dog by a local shelter, but has been very stressed out in the shelter’s kennel – she has significantly relaxed since being transferred to a rescue. She is a sweet dog that only wants to have a family of her own, where she could really blossom and show her beautiful personality to the fullest. She is playful (balls are her favorite toy ever), but isn’t too energetic or demanding – she’d do great with a family that leads a quiet lifestyle and wants a mellow companion that doesn’t need daily adventures to be happy.While Hannah can be a bit shy and distrustful at first, once she gets a chance to meet you, she will quickly warm up to you and shower you with affection once she feels safe and relaxed around you. She’ll love to snuggle up to you, kick it back, and simply unwind while she’s getting some much-wanted ear scratches and belly rubs – she really is a loving dog that only wants that love to be returned by someone.Hannah is house-trained, has great leash manners, and has never made a mess or an issue when left alone – she is a very well-behaved gal. She has been around kids in the rescue but has been scared and startled by curious toddlers, so it’s best if she goes to an adult-only home or a family with older children. Hannah is good around dogs but gets really stressed by young, energetic dogs that can be pushy, and it would be better if her canine sibling would be an older dog or a pooch with a similarly mellow character.If you want to learn more about Hannah or adopt her, contact S.O.A.R. Initiative, Inc. for additional information.

Adoptable Dog of the Week - Asher

Are you looking for a high-energy dog that can keep up with your many exciting adventures and activities? If so, this boy may be the perfect new addition to your family! Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Asher, a 2-year-old Australian Cattle Dog patiently (or not so patiently) waiting in Studio City, CA, to find his forever home. Like many Cattle Dogs, Asher often displays herding behaviors. For this reason, he would be best suited to a home where he is the only dog, and there are no young children. He is neutered and up to date on his vaccinations. Asher’s Tale Asher was found wandering the streets as a stray. He had suffered an injury resulting in a neck wound that appeared to have been caused by a dog fight at some point in his attempt to survive on his own. Since being found, he was given the medical care and attention needed, and his wounds have fully healed. Like most Cattle Dogs, Asher has a lot of energy. He is a working dog and needs to go to a home where he will be given plenty of exercise daily. He would do best with an experienced adopter that knows how to train and handle a working dog. Asher thrives in situations where he is given a job or a task to focus on. For many working dogs, this could include trick or obedience training, agility, hiking (especially carrying a properly weighted pack), scent work, or long games of fetch. Working dogs also love the mental enrichment from puzzle toys and snuffle mats. There is nothing that Asher will love more than getting out and spending time at his owner’s side, enjoying that quality time whatever the task. When not working, Asher is a loving companion. He will happily relax next to you while you work and cuddle all night if his exercise needs are met. While he will bond closely with “his person” or people, cattle dogs are often wary of strangers. If Asher sounds like the perfect fit for you and your lifestyle, contact The Rescue Train for more information. 

What is the Best Catio for My Cat?

Do you have a cat that loves being outdoors, enjoying the fresh air, but you worry about their safety and well-being? Does your cat refuse to walk to wear a harness or walk on a leash? The answer might be a catio! These kitty-focused enclosures are gaining a lot of attention lately, popping up in backyards, on the sides of travel trailers, and even as portable safe spaces for cat parents to take their furry friends anywhere. With so many designs, materials, and features available, choosing the best catio for your needs can feel overwhelming. In this guide, I will do a deep dive into the world of catios, exploring different types and the situations they are best suited for. I will also discuss different features and key considerations to help you while shopping for your cat. Get ready to create the perfect (and safe) outdoor space for your furry friend today! What is a Catio? Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is a catio? The term is a mix of “cat” and “patio,” referring to enclosed outdoor spaces designed specifically for cats. These range from small playpen-style spaces to allow them to get a bit of fresh air to large patios with space for both the cat and their people. Are Catios Good for Cats? Yes! Catios are a great way to allow your cat to spend time outdoors without putting them at risk. While domesticated cats are safer indoors, spending time outdoors has benefits. Allowing your cat to watch the birds and explore new spaces is a great way to provide them with mental enrichment and stimulation. Many cats also simply enjoy sunbathing or watching the world around them. At the same time, the catio keeps them safely contained. Outdoor cats have considerably shorter lifespans due to their increased risk of diseases, predators, car accidents, outdoor toxins, and other unfortunate accidents. According to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative, the average outdoor cat lives to be 2-5 years old, while the average indoor cat with only safe, supervised outdoor time lives to be 10-20 years old. Keeping your cat in a catio is also a great way to protect the local wildlife. Cats are natural predators with a strong hunting instinct. Stray cats and cats allowed to roam outdoors significantly impact the ecosystem by killing large numbers of birds, rodents, and other wildlife. What Are the Downsides of a Catio? Allowing your cat to be outdoors in a catio is a great compromise. However, as with any product for our pets, there are pros and cons to consider. Even though your cat is contained, it may create a false sense of security regarding some of the risks of being outdoors. The mesh or screening around a catio isn’t enough to keep parasites like fleas and ticks away. You will still need to consider the necessary flea preventatives and regular tick checks to keep these pets away. The other risk that isn’t completely mitigated by the confines of a catio is the dangers introduced by local strays. Cat fights and confrontations can still occur through the flexible mesh and screen sides. This means your cat is still at risk of unnecessary stress from these encounters and the potential spread of diseases. Careful supervision of your cat outdoors, even if they are safely contained in their catio, will allow you to keep these strays away. What is the Difference Between a Catio and a Fenced Yard?Even if you have a fenced yard, a catio can provide an additional level of safety and security for your cat. But why might you need this extra layer of protection? There are many stray and outdoor cats that easily climb over fences, viewing them as nothing more than a minor inconvenience. Even if your cat has never escaped the fence around your yard before, there is a first time for everything. It only takes a couple of seconds for your cat to climb a tree, scale a shed, or jump up to the top of your fence from a patio chair, and they are now running loose. As we already discussed, there are many significant dangers putting your cat at risk when running unsupervised outdoors. A fenced yard is not a reliable solution to this.

Americans Are Taking Their Pets to Mexico for Vet Care - Here's Why

The rising costs of veterinary care in the U.S. have spurred a growing number of pet parents to turn to Mexico for more affordable veterinary care for their pets. Valerie Silva of Indio, California, estimates that she saved hundreds of dollars on veterinary bills for her two dogs, Paco and Sunny, in one year. The first time she visited a Mexican veterinary clinic was in 2022, when her Chihuahua mix, Sunny, needed vaccines. Unable to schedule an appointment for Sunny at any of the local veterinary clinics, Valerie has found a pet hospital near her grandparents’ house in Mexicali. She was pleased with the service enough to come back to get Sunny spayed and have her other dog, Paco, vaccinated. Overall, she paid $80 for the spaying procedure and around $200 for eight shots for both dogs.“The price difference is insane,” Silva told USA TODAY. “It’s just so much easier being able to go in there and not have to worry about it being like $70, $100 for a shot.” The huge savings and easy access to affordable pet care have made traveling to Mexico attractive to many pet parents like Silva. Miguel Lazcano of New York City was in a difficult situation when one of his three dogs, a longhaired Dachshund named Henry, needed dental care. “We noticed some of his teeth were loose and his breath was getting worse,” said Lazcano. “They mentioned there was at least four extractions and the cost on the high end was around $5,000. And on the low end, was around $3,500.”Without pet insurance to cover the cost, Lazcano has already paid around $700 for Henry’s bloodwork. After getting Henry’s dental surgery estimate, Lazcano decided to research more affordable veterinary care in Mexico.Lazcano came across MaxiVet Express, a pet courier service that would take his dog to Tijuana, Mexico, for veterinary treatment at a fraction of the price. The owner of MaxiVet Express, Anna Ginsky, started her company after taking her dog to Mexico for dental treatment. Ginsky said she saved over $1,600 on her dog’s procedure in Mexico. “Mexican vets are definitely targeting U.S. pet owners to become their clients. They are making announcements in English. They are advertising more on the internet,” explained Ginsky.Ginsky’s clients travel from all over the country and then her team accompany the pets to Mexico while their owners stay stateside. Most veterinary treatments are finished within a day. Most pet parents opt to take their pets to Mexico for dental care and simple surgeries. The Mexican veterinarians Ginsky works with also offer follow-up appointments, wellness checks, and chemotherapy treatments. “It makes me really fulfilled to be able to offer a service like this. We have people cry when they learn what our prices are going to be and how affordable it’s going to be for them.” Henry, the longhaired Dachshund, traveled around 3,000 miles for his first veterinary appointment in Mexico. The vet performed an echocardiogram to ensure Henry could tolerate anesthesia before moving on with teeth cleaning and extractions.Ginsky called Lazcano regularly to keep him updated about his pooch. This is a standard procedure for Ginsky, who believes pet parents should be kept informed throughout the day, regardless of whether they are first-time clients or have used her services before. “Everybody loves their pet just the same. And they want to make sure that their pet’s doing OK,” she said.Ronald Richards, the owner of the clinic where Henry had his dental work done explained that the main reason veterinary prices are lower in Mexico is because labor costs less. “The doctors just don’t make as much money as they do in the United States. We don’t have medical malpractice insurance or anything like that. So here in Mexico, it’s really kind of buyers beware in regards to when you go to someone’s clinic for service.”Despite all the potential risks, Lazcano is comfortable with his decision and confident that Henry got the best veterinary care. Henry has made a full recovery after his surgery, and his breath is now fresh.  After spending only a third of what he would have to pay a vet in New York, Lozcano is now considering taking his other two dogs for veterinary treatments in Mexico. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Missing 80-Year-Old Woman Found Thanks to Her Loyal Dog

The dedication and loyalty shown by “man’s best friend” has been long documented, from tales of heroic police K9s protecting their handlers to dedicated service dogs. But a recent story out of Utah shows just how far a loving dog will go to keep their person safe.The Emery County Sheriff’s Office in east-central Utah received a report of a missing 80-year-old woman. The elderly woman from Colorado had been visiting family when she took the family dog for a walk and never returned. Even more concerning, the missing woman had dementia. Recognizing this was a high-risk situation, a search was quickly organized, including multiple rescue crews, Ralph Mitchell, a local neighbor and friend of the family, James Thomas, a K9 Officer with the Utah Department of Wildlife Resources, and his canine partner, K9 Kip. It was a multi-agency effort to locate the woman quickly. Temperatures in the area rose to nearly 100 degrees during the day and dropped to 55 degrees at night. The situation was dire. The hot daytime temperatures slowed the search, forcing the teams to work when it was safe at night. After searching continuously for two days and two nights, Thomas and K9 Kip heard a dog barking briefly around 3:30 AM. Listening carefully, they tried to follow the sound but were unable to find the dog before it stopped. Thomas wasn’t the only one who heard the barking—Mitchell heard it, too! “When I was out checking the outbuildings, I heard a dog bark, and it was brief,” Mitchell explained. “I was in a very good position to get a direction on where this dog bark was coming from.” While Mitchell wasn’t able to pinpoint the bark's exact location, he was able to determine an approximate zone. On day three, the search crews accessed security cameras in the area, scanning the footage for any sign of the woman. Much to their surprise, they spotted her walking with her dog, heading east. “It was the first evidence that we had of her presence, and it gave us a timeline of when she was out walking and how long she’d been missing,” Mitchell stated. Focusing their efforts on the area they had seen her walking toward, the searchers split up and covered as much ground as they could. Not long into the search, they heard the sound again—barking. This time, they were able to follow the barks over steep, rugged terrain that had already been ruled out as too challenging for a woman of her age. Against all odds, there she was. On day three, they found her lying, fast asleep, with her face down. Her dog, 5-year-old chocolate lab Elsie, was lying beside her, sounding the alarm with her barks to call for help. While the two were dirty and dehydrated, they were in surprisingly good shape. Elsie had shown her loyalty to the family, keeping the woman safe and calling for help. In fact, searchers credited the dog with saving the woman’s life. It was a happy ending and a beautiful example of the true power of the loving bond that exists between a dog and their person. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can A Dog Be Autistic?

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects humans and can be manifested in a variety of ways, most of which are related to challenges with social skills, communication, and interaction with the world itself. While the many sides of the autism spectrum are well understood and documented, there’s a lot that remains a mystery, such as the question if autism is specific to humans – or more precisely: can a dog be autistic?Canine autism is still not officially recognized in veterinary medicine in the same way it is in humans, however, there are some behaviors in dogs that can resemble traits associated with autism in humans, leading some pet owners and veterinarians to use the term "autistic" in order to describe them more specifically. Here is all that you need to know about this complex topic.Can a Dog Be Autistic?Some dogs may exhibit behaviors that are similar to those seen in autistic individuals. For example, some dogs may exhibit repetitive behaviors. This might include excessive licking, tail chasing, pawing, or pacing. In fact, they get so repetitive that it quickly becomes abnormal. Besides all this, some “autistic” dogs can have difficulties with social interactions. In these cases, they might be less responsive to social cues, avoid eye contact, or prefer being alone. Similarly, some dogs can have overwhelming sensitivity to various stimuli. This means that certain dogs might be overly sensitive to sounds, lights, or touch – things that seem ordinary in most cases. These behaviors could be due to various factors, including genetic predispositions, developmental issues, or environmental influences. Some dogs may also be affected by canine-compulsive disorder (CCD). Similar to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in humans, dogs with CCD engage in repetitive behaviors that are difficult to interrupt. This can contribute to autistic behaviors. The same goes for dogs with sensory processing disorders. In such cases, they might have abnormal sensory processing, making them overly reactive or unresponsive to certain stimuli. Ultimately, though not well-defined, certain neurodevelopmental issues could lead to behaviors reminiscent of autism. Either way, in the case that your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, it is important to seek professional help. Working with a professional dog trainer or a veterinary behaviorist can help you address problematic behaviors and deal with them efficiently. After all, autistic dogs can be as happy and normal as all other pets. Providing mental and physical stimulation through toys,  puzzles, and regular exercise is very important, however, as it ensures that they remain happy and active. 

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How Do I Train My Dog to Wear a Harness?

Enjoying a leisurely walk or adventurous hike with your dog is an incredible way to spend quality time together and strengthen your bond. However, a dog that pulls and lacks leash manners can quickly turn this fun experience upside down.While collars have long been the standard for walking, many veterinarians and trainers are now sharing the benefits of using a harness. They are generally safer and more comfortable for dogs of all ages.However, not every dog will instantly take to wearing a harness the first time they are introduced.In this guide, I will walk you through the steps of introducing a harness to your dog, building positive associations, and setting both you and your dog up for long-term success. From choosing the right harness to mastering the process of putting it on, you’ll be prepared to hit the pavement with your canine companion in style and comfort.What Are the Benefits of Using a Harness?Let's take a step back before I walk you through training your dog to wear a harness. Why should you consider using a harness for your dog? What benefits does it offer over a typical collar?The most significant difference between a collar and a harness, and the reason why most veterinarians and dog trainers recommend harnesses, is the risk of injury. When your dog wears a collar, all pressure is put directly on their throat. If your dog pulls or tries to take off after a temptation (like a squirrel or to play with another dog), the pressure on their throat can cause significant damage. In the most severe cases, the impact of the collar on your dog’s throat can cause a life-threatening injury.Harnesses, on the other hand (or the other paw), disperse the pressure across your dog’s chest. Not only is this a more extensive area, but it’s better suited for handling this pressure without injuries (assuming the harness is properly fit to your dog).Depending on the activities you plan to enjoy with your dog, a harness could introduce additional features. This could include harnesses and support to assist a senior dog with mobility, a cooling harness for hot summer days, a harness with built-in backpacks to carry their gear while hiking, seatbelt attachments for safe car travel, and more. What Age Should Your Dog Start Wearing a Harness?Eight weeks old is the earliest age you should put a harness onto a young puppy. At this age, puppies are generally very open to new skills and experiences, making it the perfect time to introduce something new. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t train your dog to wear a harness if you are considering making this change later in life. Many adults and even senior dogs learn to wear and love their harnesses with a bit of time and a little patience.How Long Does It Take a Dog to Get Used to a Harness? The time it will take for your dog to get used to a harness will vary from dog to dog. Some pups will accept the harness quickly, comfortably wearing it and running around confidently right away. However, this isn’t true for every dog.If your dog is older and set in their ways or nervous when faced with new experiences, working through these steps may take a lot longer. Be patient and focus on creating a positive association with the harness by introducing praise and rewards. Allow your dog to set the pace, moving from one step to the next only when they are ready. This is the best way to set them up for long-term success (the ultimate goal).How to Train Your Dog to Wear a Harness: Step-By-StepBefore you start training, take a moment to consider what motivates your dog. While most dogs can be motivated with high-value treats, you may find your dog is better inspired to try something new with the offer of playtime with a favorite toy or even with simple praise and attention from you, their person. Knowing this is the secret to training success!Step One – Choosing a HarnessThe first thing to consider is the style of harness best suited for your dog. There are several factors to consider when shopping for the right harness. This includes your dog’s size, the weight of the harness, the adjustability, the material, how easy it is to clean, and any special features the harness may offer.You may even need to consider different harnesses for different situations. For example, you may prefer a classic nylon harness for walks around the block with your pup. However, if you are planning a challenging hike, your dog may be better served by a stronger and more supportive adventure harness with a handle to assist with any obstacles along the way.Finding the correct harness is essential, as your training will focus on making that specific harness a positive trigger for your dog. For the training process to be effective, this harness should be used.Step Two – Introduce the HarnessIn the early stages of training, you’re not going to put the harness on your dog. Instead, you want to give them a chance to check it out and realize it’s not something to be afraid of.To begin, place the harness on the ground in the comfort of your own home. Allow your dog to sniff at it and look it over. As they interact with the harness, occasionally offer praise or a treat. This will start to introduce the idea that the harness brings good things.When you see that they give the harness no more interest than a rug or your shoes (assuming they don’t chew your shoes), you can move on to the next step.

Can Dogs Get A Sunburn?

While your pooch might enjoy basking in the sun, you should be mindful of the potentially harmful effect UV exposure might have. Yes, same as it is the case with us humans, dogs are also susceptible to the damage harsh sun rays can cause. Humans, of course, will get sunburn if they don’t use protective sunscreen or stay in the shade, but is it the same for dogs? Most of them have fur, so does it relate to them as well? Let’s find out.Can Dogs Get Sunburn?Well, fur or no – sun can be certainly dangerous for dogs, especially if they are exposed to it for longer periods. And that means that sunburn can affect them as well. In fact, if the UV index is high, the strong rays of the sun can damage the skin incredibly quickly. Of course, it is important to know that certain breeds are more susceptible to sunburn than others, especially those with less fur. For example, breeds like French bulldogs, boxers, chihuahuas, greyhounds, and bull terriers will need more protection than usual. Hairless dog breeds are especially vulnerable, like the Chinese crested and Mexican hairless (xoloitzcuintli). Similarly, doggos that spend most of their time outside are more susceptible to sunburn, as well as fair-skinned dogs – with light pink skin underneath their coats.Symptoms of Sunburn in DogsWhile it’s hard to miss sunburnt skin in humans, how do you spot sunburn on your dog, considering that they have fur?Red or pink skin:Sunburned skin will change color – pink will indicate a mild sunburn, while a deeper shade of red will indicate a severe one. Of course, it could be difficult to spot this, especially if your dog’s coat is black, so make a thorough check-up if you suspect your pet has a sunburn. Dry and flaky skinIf you notice dry and flaky skin, this could be an indication of a sunburn. This is the first noticeable symptom in the days following sunburn. It can be accompanied by vigorous scratching, as it often feels itchy and uncomfortable. Blisters or soresHeavily sunburned skin will erupt in blisters that will eventually pop. They often require veterinary care, especially if they are numerous and cause obvious discomfort.Of course, urgent care is always needed to treat sunburn. Besides going to the vet, there are a number of things you can do as a caring owner to both prevent and treat sunburn. How Do You Treat Sunburn In Dogs?In case of a milder sunburn, you can treat the issue at home, with natural remedies. Apply a cool, damp cloth to the affected area to soothe the skin, or use a dog-safe aloe vera gel to moisturize the irritated skin and help it heal faster.

Dog Poop Incident Grounds a United Airlines Flight

Have you ever been on a flight where your travel experience didn’t go to plan? If so, you’re not alone! From unruly passengers to flight delays and rough weather conditions, so many factors are out of your control.But what about a mid-air doggy disaster?Travelers on an April 5th United Airlines flight from Houston to Seattle learned the hard way just how quickly a traveling pooch, an unfortunate aisle, and the need to “do some business” can create a very unpleasant situation.According to Reddit user James Hobbs, a passenger’s dog had a “messy accident” in the aisle in first class after taking off. He went on to describe the chaotic situation that followed. Since his post, others have shared their experiences on the flight. Additionally, a representative from United Airlines confirmed the event occurred to reporters and larger publications.Unfortunately, this pup didn’t just have a stinky bowel movement. Other travelers described it as being in “very liquid form” with a scent so strong that passengers were given alcohol wipes to sniff to drown out the strong odor.After being diverted to Dallas, ground crews set to work cleaning up the putrid mess for a solid two hours. However, even that wasn’t enough…“The mess was so bad in the first-class bathroom that even after cleaning, they still closed it for the rest of the flight,” described Hobbs. He went on to say, “The cabin crew deserve accolades. They responded well despite having to hop over the mess.”For pet parents, this incident raises concerns that other travelers may question the policies for pets traveling in the cabin. United Airlines allows pet parents to travel with up to two pets. Each pet must fit into a carrier small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Passengers with two pets must purchase two tickets, side by side, to accommodate the spots needed for each pet. As of April 26th, a $150 fee each way is added to your ticket cost for including a pet.During the flight, pets are required to stay in their carrier. The recent incident has confused many frequent travelers.How could the dog have created such a mess while still safely contained within their carrier? If the dog was removed from the carrier, why did this happen? What could have been done to prevent the mess and inconvenience to all other travelers on the flight?While we will likely never have an answer, here are a few tips for smooth airline travel with your pet:Visit the Vet Before Flying: Book a check-up with your vet before taking your dog on a flight. This will ensure your pup is in good health and help reduce the chance of “accidents” due to sickness or other complications during travel.Stop Feeding 4-6 Hours Before the Flight: Make sure your dog has had a solid meal, then cut off any food approximately 4 to 6 hours before boarding the flight. This gives them time to digest and “pass” their meal before the flight.Take a Final Bathroom Break: Make sure you stop at the airport’s pet relief areas just before boarding. Just as we need a final bathroom break before traveling, so do our pets.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Step Back in Time with The Snack Pack from Bark

Do you remember those Saturday mornings, nestled in front of the TV with a bowl of your favorite cereal, surrounded by the colorful characters from your childhood? The laughter, the joy, the yummy goodness – it’s a time we all hold dear in our hearts. But what if we told you that now, your furry best friend can get to enjoy it too?Introducing The Snack Pack by Bark – the ultimate throwback to the golden era of breakfast cereals, reimagined for your beloved canine companion. Just like the beloved cereal boxes that were a regular centerpiece on our kitchen tables, The Snack Pack comes complete with vibrant packaging, quirky mascots, and a whole lot of nostalgia. The collection includes:BARK Frosted Socks™: Crunchy, yogurt berry dog treats made with real fruit and yogurtBARK Fruity Toot Loops™: Crunchy, mixed berry dog treats made with real fruit and nutritious grainsBARK Go Nuttys™: Honey peanut flavored soft-baked dog treats made with nutritious grainsBARK Lucky Duckies™: A turducken recipe soft-baked dog treat packed with proteinBARK Clucky Nuggy Yums™: Chicken nugget recipe soft-baked dog treat packed with protein and nutritious grainsBARK Beefy Meat Hunks™: Soft and meaty beef recipe dog treats packed with protein and nutritious grainsBARK Porky Meat Hunks™: Soft and meaty pork recipe dog treats packed with protein and nutritious grainsAnother cool thing about these snacks is that inside every treat box awaits a delightful surprise. A QR code, reminiscent of the secret codes you used to decipher from the back of cereal boxes, leads you to a world of fun and excitement. With a simple ‘scritch’, you could reveal prizes ranging from a year of BarkBox, to free toys and treats, or even fun mini-games that will keep you and your pup entertained for hours on end.But the Snack Pack isn’t just ridiculously silly, it’s Ridiculously Nutritious™! Made with real fruit, nutritious grains, and protein-packed ingredients, these treats are not only delicious but also provide your furry friend with the fuel they need for endless rounds of fetch and hours of zoomies. And with absolutely no corn or soy, and no artificial preservatives, you can rest assured knowing that you’re giving your dog nothing but the best.If you want to make every day feel like a Saturday morning cartoon marathon with your furry best friend by your side, treat them to a taste of nostalgia with The Snack Pack by Bark. Whether you’re reliving your own childhood memories or creating new ones with your beloved pet, these ridiculously nutritious treats are guaranteed to bring a smile to both your faces. Backed by Bark’s 100% Happiness Guarantee, you can embark on this nostalgic journey knowing that you and your pup are in for a treat – quite literally!

Cozy Fall Is Back – And So Are GREENIES Pumpkin Spice Dental Treats!

There is nothing that feels cozier than autumn. As the evenings become chillier and the leaves turn into vibrant shades of orange, we all get into that fall mood and reach for our favorite treats – such as a yummy pumpkin spice latte! And now, thanks to the limited-edition dental chews from GREENIES, your pet can enjoy the same cinnamony, pumpkin flavor you look forward to each year. Specially crafted for the autumn season, these one-of-a-kind chews are designed to give your pet a taste of fall while promoting healthy teeth and fresh breath all the while.

Rescue Dog Steals Hearts at Westminster Dog Show 2024

The Westminster Dog Show is a tradition that dog lovers everywhere look forward to each year. It brings award-winning dogs and professional handlers together for a competition celebrating man’s best friend. But this year, an unlikely competitor stole the hearts of spectators and attendees. Miles, a rescue dog from Pennsylvania, was one of over 2,500 dogs to compete in the Westminster Dog Show 2024. The seven-year-old rescue dog was classified as an “All-American Dog,” a term used to describe mutts or mixed-breed dogs. While the annual dog show is only open to purebreds, the Masters Agility Championship and Masters Obedience Championship are open to all breeds (and mixes). It was on the agility course that Miles’ unique energy and impressive skill quickly earned him recognition as a fan favorite. This wasn’t the first time he competed. In fact, Miles had already participated in the Masters Agility Championship twice before, as well as the American Kennel Club Agility Nationals twice, where he was named the top All-American Dog in his category each time. Seeing the joy Miles exhibited while running agility was enough to make any dog lover smile. But the truly heartwarming part of this story is his journey to where he is today and the loving owner who made it all possible.

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