How Hill’s Science Diet Meets Your Pet’s Unique Needs

Angela Vuckovic
by Angela Vuckovic
Updated:  September 29th, 2022

Every pet is unique – from their looks and personalities to their health and dietary needs. For most cats and dogs, their food should be formulated to suit their size, their activity levels, and their age. However, for pets that have certain health considerations, that just won’t cut it. To truly thrive, your pet will need a tailored formula to support their individual dietary needs and one that is optimized to either target the root cause of their issues (e.g. the formulation of struvites in cats with UTIs) or to help support their everyday health (such as foods with prebiotics that help digestion).

This is why many experts and parents alike opt for specialized formulas, such as the #1 veterinarian-recommended Hill’s Science Diet. This science-led nutrition for pets creates recipes as unique as your pet, specially made with a variety of common cat and dog health considerations in mind that affect both cats and dogs. And right now, you can get Hill’s Science Diet featured products for up to 15% off.

Hill's® Science Diet® Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult Dry Dog Food

Created to be gentle on the sensitive stomach while nourishing a healthy skin and coat, this dry food provides optimal nutrient absorption and is highly digestible. Packed with Omega-6 fatty acids and Vitamin E, it helps promote a healthy coat and skin, and it also contains beet pulp, which is a potent prebiotic fiber, to support healthy digestion. This formula is perfect for dogs wanting nutritional support for their healthy skin and coat, dogs with sensitive stomachs, or dogs who could benefit from extra support for their digestive health.


Hill's® Science Diet® Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult Dry Cat Food

From difficult-to-pass hairballs to early morning vomiting routine, cats are no strangers to digestive issues. This dry food is formulated to optimize their digestion with its high digestibility and inclusion of FOS, a prebiotic fiber that helps support a healthy gut microbiome and encourages beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract. Of course, thanks to the Vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids, this formula will also promote your cat's healthy skin and coat.


Hill's® Science Diet® Perfect Digestion Adult Dry Dog Food

If it’s not just a sensitive tummy that bothers your pet from time to time, but they actually struggle with digestive issues on a regular basis, their food needs to help support their gut microbiome, in addition to being nutritious and easy to digest. This formula contains an exclusive blend of prebiotics called ActivBiome+ Technology, which rapidly activates your pet’s unique gut microbiome to promote their digestive health. In addition, it also contains natural ingredients that also support healthy digestion, such as whole grain oats and pumpkin.


Get 15%-off Select bags of Hill's Science Diet Specialty Foods at PetSmart.com! Valid 5/1 - 5/31


Hill's® Science Diet® Perfect Digestion Adult Dry Cat Food

Easier poop pick-up and a healthy, happy cat – it’s possible when the gut microbiome is in balance and thriving. To support your cat’s digestive health, this dry food utilizes Hills Science Diet's revolutionary ActivBiome+ Technology, which contains a potent blend of prebiotics, whole grain oats, and pumpkin, and feeds the good microbes in the gut. As a result, your cat’s body may be able to digest food better, and in the end, have a more regular stool.


Hill's® Science Diet® Perfect Weight Adult Dog Food

Maintaining a healthy weight and a lean body is important for any dog as it can stave off a variety of health issues induced by obesity. This weight management nutrition formula supports safe and effective weight loss for dogs, with clinical studies to back up its proven results. It was found to help 70% of adult dogs lose weight within 10 weeks when fed this diet, and is packed with healthy protein to support lean muscle maintenance while promoting weight management.


Hill's® Science Diet® Perfect Weight Adult Cat Food

Chubby cats might be cute, but they can be affected by various health problems associated with being overweight. Formulated to have the taste kitties crave and be packed with nutrients while cutting back on calories, this cat food helped 70% of adult cats to lose weight within weeks, thanks to its revolutionary formula. Optimized both for weight loss and long-term weight management, this dry food also provides lean muscle support.


Hill's® Science Diet® Urinary Hairball Control Adult Dry Cat Food

This formula supports the health of the whole urinary system and helps avoid hairball formation through a unique blend of nutrients -- both common concerns for cat pet parents! Studies have indicated that high levels of magnesium in pet food could be the culprit behind the formation of kidney and bladder stones, so this food contains optimal levels of the mineral to support your cat’s overall urinary health. Furthermore, the natural fiber in the formula comfortably helps reduce hairballs, whereas Omega-6 and Vitamin E help maintain a healthy coat in the first place, making hairballs a much more manageable issue for cats.


Get 15%-off Select bags of Hill's Science Diet Specialty Foods at PetSmart.com! Valid 5/1 - 5/31



Feature Image by vvvita/Shutterstock.com

WOW
Angela Vuckovic
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.

More by Angela Vuckovic

Can Dogs Get Harvest Mites?
Can Dogs Get Harvest Mites?
View Article
Next
Related articles
Scientists Reveal Why Cats Scratch Furniture and How to Stop It

Many cat owners get used to seeing torn cushions, carpets, and furniture that bear their felines’ claw marks. Scratching is normal behavior for cats but is often considered a behavioral problem by cat owners who sometimes turn to painful procedures, like declawing, as a quick fix.This has prompted an international team of researchers to investigate which factors influence undesired scratching behavior in domestic cats. The team surveyed over 1,200 cat owners in France about the daily lives and characteristics, as well as undesired scratching behavior of their cats. Their findings were published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science. “Here we show that certain factors - such as the presence of children at home, personality traits of cats and their activity levels -significantly impact the extent of scratching behavior,” explained Dr. Yasemin Salgirli Demirbas, the first author of the study and a veterinary researcher at Ankara University. “Our findings can help caregivers manage and redirect scratching to appropriate materials, which could help foster a more harmonious living environment for both cats and their caregivers.”Researchers discovered a link between certain behavioral and environmental factors and increased scratching behavior in cats. “Specifically, the presence of children in the home as well as high levels of play and nocturnal activity significantly contribute to increased scratching,” explained Salgirli Demirbas. Nocturnal activity in cats consists of behaviors exhibited at night. Heightened vocalization and playfulness during the night are usually the result of poor daytime stimulation or lack of social interactions. But it may also be a cat’s way of seeking attention. “While cats are naturally nocturnal, they can adjust to a human diurnal schedule if provided with structured and engaging activities during the day,” said the survey’s lead author.However, researchers found that stress is the main reason behind increased scratching. For example, the presence of children in the home, especially while they’re small, might increase stress levels and be one of several factors that can cause cats to scratch. Although it may seem unlikely, playfulness is another factor that can be associated with stress. You see, when cats play for a long time without a break, their stress levels can become high because of uninterrupted stimulation. Unsurprisingly, researchers discovered that cats described as aggressive and troublesome also exhibited higher levels of unwanted scratching. Although some factors that contribute to unwanted scratching - such as the cat’s personality and the presence of young children at home - can’t be changed, others can. For example, placing scratching posts in areas a cat spends a lot of time in or near their favorite resting spot can lessen the cat’s urge to scratch the furniture. Using pheromone diffusers and sprays is also an effective way to help your cat feel calm and confident in their environment. Pheromone therapy is often used for cats that show signs of anxiety and can prevent stress behaviors like scratching, crying, and hiding. “Providing safe hiding places, elevated observation spots, and ample play opportunities can also help alleviate stress and engage the cat in more constructive activities,” explained researchers.Engaging a cat in multiple play sessions that mimic hunting behavior is a great strategy to reduce stress and excessive scratching. This type of play will keep the cat mentally stimulated and help deepen the bond between the owner and the cat.“Understanding the underlying emotional motivations of scratching behavior, such as frustration, which seem to be linked to personality traits and environmental factors, allows the caregivers to address these issues directly.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How to Tell If a Dog Is Dehydrated?

Summer is in full swing, and drinking plenty of water is very important for everyone – our dogs included. Dehydration in dogs is a very serious condition that can lead to many health issues if it is not addressed promptly. Recognizing the signs of dehydration early can make a significant difference in your dog’s well-being. So here are the basic things to know, including symptoms, causes, and preventative measures. How to Tell If a Dog Is Dehydrated?When it comes to spotting signs of all health issues in dogs, it all boils down to being attentive and making sure you don’t miss any cues from your pooch. Knowing the symptoms of dehydration in dogs will help you tremendously as you’ll know precisely what to look for, ensuring a quick response and timely treatment for your four-legged bestie.#1 Dry nose and gums:One of the first noticeable signs of dehydration in dogs is a dry nose and gums. Normally, a dog’s nose should be moist, and the gums should be pink and moist as well. But if you notice that your pet’s nose and gums are dry, it could be an indication of dehydration.#2 Loss of skin elasticity:Skin elasticity is a key indicator of hydration levels. Gently pinch the skin on the back of your dog’s neck or between the shoulders. In a well-hydrated doggo, the skin should quickly return to its normal position. If the skin, however, stays tented or takes a long time to go back, it is a sign of dehydration. #3 Sunken eyes:Dehydration can cause a dog’s eyes to appear sunken and lack their usual brightness. This is a more severe symptom and indicates that the dehydration has been ongoing or is at a critical level.#4 Lethargy and weakness:Dehydrated dogs often show signs of lethargy and weakness. They might be less active than usual, unwilling to play, or have difficulty standing or walking. #5 Panting or rapid breathing:While panting is normal for dogs, excessive panting or rapid breathing can be a symptom of dehydration, especially if it is not related to any recent physical activity or high outside temperatures.#6 Dry and sticky saliva:Dehydrated dogs may have thick, sticky saliva instead of the usual watery type. This is a noticeable change that can indicate your dog needs more fluids.It is important to remember that there can be various causes of dehydration, and one needs to consider all of them. For example, the main cause of dehydration in dogs tends to be inadequate water intake. Dogs may not drink enough water due to many reasons, such as stress, illness, or changes in their environment. Make sure that they always have a source of fresh water, even if you are outside. If your dog isn’t too keen on drinking water, try encouraging them with a pet water fountain – moving, fresh water tends to have a better taste and the novelty of the fountain usually motivates dogs to drink more than they usually do. 

Hilarious Trend Reveals Most Cats Wouldn't Survive the "Quiet Place"

“A Quiet Place: Day One,” the third entry in the popular post-apocalyptic series, took box offices by storm this summer. The film shows the people of New York City as they fight to survive an alien invasion in which blind extraterrestrial beings with a powerful sense of hearing hunt them down by listening for their movements. While the film blew away expectations at the box office, one character truly stole the show – Frodo, the leading kitty. Throughout the movie, Frodo (played by feline actors Nico and Schnitzel) is challenged to stay quiet as he and his human companions (Sam and Eric) try to escape the city and flee to safety. This has raised a question online among cat parents—in the event of a similar alien invasion, would your cat be able to survive? This curiosity has inspired a new trend on TikTok and other social media platforms. In the videos, cat parents pick up their cats and pretend to run for safety. The concept is simple: While either holding your phone camera or strategically setting it up to capture the attempt, pick up your cat and make a run for it. The good news is that no cats were harmed in the making of these videos. There are obviously no real aliens hunting people down as they flee their homes. The bad news? Very few cats would survive if this movie were to become a reality! If you are in need of a good laugh, the videos won’t disappoint. While some cats stayed silent, ensuring they and their beloved owners would flee safely, others were unimpressed that they were even picked up to begin with. Cats of TikTok can be seen vocally expressing their disapproval while others fought to be released, believing they would survive better on their own without the extra “baggage” of a human to hold them back (or at least that’s how the comments describe their response). One TikTok user, @birchcanread, created a video testing each of her six cats. The video, which now has over 7 million views, demonstrated why most cat parents would be doomed in this scenario.

Hands-In Dog Videos Are Crushing It! So, Why Are My Dogs Opting Out?

Thousands of those “hand-hand-paw” videos are taking social media by storm… but not all pooches are raising a paw in solidarity.

Study Shows How Dogs Feel When We Hug Them – And You Won't Like It

Nothing beats snuggling with your pooch – those doggy cuddles are really something special. But do our canine companions enjoy being hugged as much as we love hugging them? A new research study published in the scientific journal “Applied Animal Behaviour Sciences” sheds some light on this topic – with results that will sadden some dog owners.Elizabeth Ann Walsh, from the Cork Pet Behaviour Centre in Ireland, who was the head scientist behind this study on human-dog communication, examined several videos of people hugging and playing with their dogs, in order to better analyze how dogs would react to our displays of affection. The results surprised many dog owners. After all, we love to hug our pets, but it seems that our dogs don’t exactly love being hugged. At all. Walsh states that most of the dogs she examined in the videos responded to being hugged by expressing feelings of extreme physical stress and anxiety.“68% of dogs avoided eye contact and turned their heads. 44% licked their lips or nose and 43% panted, which are both signs of feeling stressed out.” the study points out. “60% of dogs flattened their eyes while being hugged, and 81% blinked, action pups make that expresses high stress levels.”The study found that in 68% of studied cases, the dogs that were hugged either nipped or bit their person as a last resort or a warning when they felt unsafe being hugged. Many dog lovers found these results sad, but they are nonetheless important in understanding dog behavior better. These results tell us that if we misinterpret a dog’s reaction to being hugged, it can be harmful to both owners and their dogs. Researchers emphasize that there can be considerable consequences to reading your pet’s stress levels wrong, including “feelings of discomfort, anxiety, fear, distress, and confusion in a dog.”Elizabeth Walsh further explains that ignoring the discomfort a dog shows can result in a fractured “dog and human bond” along with “welfare issues for the dog and the possibility of a dog escalating to exhibit defensive or agonistic behavior should communication fail”.“There are many causes for concern as humans tend not to necessarily understand the body language or vocalizations exhibited by dogs when interacting with them,” she stated. After all, the way our doggos communicate with us is very different from our own, but they, like us, still foster a bond and avoid overt displays of aggression. The research team takes the results of the study as a way to “advocate for increased education for both adults and children in canine communication, context and co-operative ways of respecting agency in human-dog interactions.” Simply put, even if we love giving our dogs hugs, that doesn’t mean they’ll like it – so we should respect their boundaries.

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.

How Do I Keep My Reptile from Overheating?

Reptiles are cold-blooded creatures, soaking up the sun to regulate their body temperature. But this doesn’t mean that they love ALL heat. As the temperatures climb outside, your reptile’s enclosure can quickly become dangerously hot, leading to serious health issues.This blog post will be your summer survival guide, packed with tips and tricks to keep your best friend cool and comfortable all summer long.What Happens if a Reptile Gets Too Hot?Overheating, or hyperthermia, occurs when a reptile's body heat rises dangerously high due to outside sources, and they are unable to adjust as necessary to bring it back down to a safe level.As cold-blooded animals, reptiles rely on outside influences for their temperature. If they are too cold, they seek heat. Likewise, if they are too hot, they seek a cooler area. However, if no cool space is available, their body temperature will continue to climb.Overheating can lead to dehydration, tissue/organ damage, or organ failure. Just as heatstroke can be fatal in dogs and cats, overheating can also be life-threatening for our reptile friends.What Temperature is Too Hot for Reptiles? Each reptile species has its own ideal temperature. For example, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the Greek tortoise thrives most in temperatures between 68 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the green iguana prefers warmer temperatures, between 84 and 91 degrees Fahrenheit. These temperatures reflect the reptile's typical natural environment.You will need to research the specific species to determine what temperatures are safe for your reptile and what are considered too hot. You can do this by looking up that information online, but ensure you only trust a reliable source. Another great way to find out your pet's ideal temperature is to speak with your exotic animal veterinarian. If you don’t already have a vet specializing in exotic animals like reptiles, this is the perfect opportunity to start your search. The Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians database is a great place to start!

Ce n'est pas possible! French Actor Wants To be Buried with Pet Dog

Famed film actor Alain Delon's death triggers uproar over a special request.

Six Toes, Nine Lives, and a Famous Author

Key West's Hemingway Home and Museum houses 60 polydactyl cats descended from the author's beloved first six-toed feline.

These Are The Top 10 Pet Toxins of 2023
These Are The Top 10 Pet Toxins of 2023
View Gallery
Design A Pet-Friendly Outdoor Space: What Every Pet Owner Should Know
Design A Pet-Friendly Outdoor Space: What Every Pet Owner Should Know
View Gallery
What Happens if a Dog Eats a Cicada?

As naturally inquisitive animals, dogs will often explore the world around them with their noses and mouths. However, this curiosity will sometimes lead them to all sorts of trouble, as they can eat things that might not be a typical part of their diet. In fact, they can munch on things that are not even edible! For example, those noisy, flying insects that emerge periodically, called cicadas, can become a tasty target for curious dogs. But what would happen if a dog would eat one of these insects? Here is all you should know.What Happens if a Dog Eats a Cicada?Cicadas are large, winged insects that appear in large numbers, and are known for their distinct sounds. Of course, they are not inherently harmful to pooches, but there are still some things to keep in mind if your pet happens to snack on one. Well, the most important thing to know is that cicadas are not toxic to dogs. Unlike some insects that carry venom or other harmful substances, cicadas are generally seen as harmless. But even so, the ingestion of these insects can still lead to some minor health issues, mostly related to their physical characteristics and the digestive system of a dog. Here’s what could go amiss if your pooch swallows one of these weird little bugs:Upset TummyAfter this unusual “snack”, your pet could end up with a mild case of digestive upset, especially if they already have a sensitive stomach to begin with. The insect’s exoskeleton, being hard and crunchy, is not so easy to digest. As a result, your pooch could experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea or vomiting. Still, they are short-lived and should disappear on their own. If your dog experiences gastrointestinal upset, consider giving them a canine probiotic that could restore their gut flora and help them feel like their old selves in no time.

Veterinarians Warn About Rise in Deadly Parvo Cases

As loving pet parents, we do everything we can to keep our pets safe. From buying the best food we can afford to keeping their vaccinations up to date – we understand that our furry family members rely on us to care for them. Unfortunately, some illnesses make this more challenging. One example is the risk of deadly canine parvovirus (also known as parvo) in puppies. While there is a vaccine to protect dogs from the disease, there is a window of time before your puppy has received the complete series of vaccinations needed to be effective. It is highly contagious and spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces, further increasing the risk during the curious stage of a puppy’s life. The disease was first discovered in 1978. It quickly spread, causing concern among veterinary professionals and dog lovers. During the pandemic, another concerning increase in cases was seen. Now, in 2024, veterinarians in several locations are sounding the alarm. In April, vets in Kansas City released a statement after The Pet Resource Center of Kansas City faced 20 cases in a week. At the same time, San Antonio Animal Care Services warned dog parents in the city that they, too, were seeing a rise in cases. Since that time, the areas of concern have continued to grow.What is Parvo? You may be wondering what parvo is and why veterinarians are so worried about the increase in cases. Canine Parvovirus is a disease that impacts a dog’s stomach and small intestines, disrupting their ability to digest food and absorb much-needed nutrients. It can also impact the lymphatic system, bone marrow, and heart. It is highly contagious and, when contracted, often severe or fatal. “Without treatment, up to 90% of animals will die,” explained Chief Veterinarian Melia Washington of The Pet Resource Center of Kansas City. “Even with treatment, we only tell people it’s a 50/50 shot.” Traditionally, treatment focuses almost entirely on supportive care, relying on the puppy’s ability to fight the virus naturally. However, in May 2023, the USDA granted a conditional license for the first-ever canine parvovirus treatment, which experts hope will change the outcome for many dogs. What are the Warning Signs? If your puppy does contract parvo, time is of the essence. The sooner you see a veterinarian and start treatment, the better their chance of survival. Watch out for these common warning signs: Vomiting Diarrhea (including bloody diarrhea)Loss of appetite Sudden high feverLethargyDepressionYou should seek veterinary care if you notice signs that something is “off” in a young puppy, especially if it occurs before the puppy has completed all recommended puppy vaccines. Puppies are vulnerable, and a minor illness can turn life-threatening very quickly when left unaddressed. How Can You Keep Your Puppy Safe? The most important step in keeping your puppy safe from canine parvovirus is to ensure that you stick to the recommended vaccination schedule. Puppies should receive vaccines at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age, and the vaccine will not be fully effective until all three rounds have been administered. Socialization is crucial for puppies, but you must take extra care before they are fully vaccinated. Avoid high-risk locations like dog parks, kennels, and doggy daycares. If your puppy is being introduced to other dogs, ensure the other dog is fully vaccinated. The best way to socialize a young puppy with other dogs is to do so with dogs you know, like those owned by family and friends. Talk to your veterinarian if you have questions or are unsure if a situation will be safe for your puppy. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

A 40 Pound Cat, Patches, Down 15 Pounds One Year After Adoption

Patches first grabbed media attention a year ago, when he arrived at Richmond Animal Care and Control weighing an astounding 40.3 pounds. The shelter’s largest feline resident was quickly adopted and has been on a weight loss journey ever since. Once a chubby feline, Patches has lost 15 pounds since his adoption and is enjoying the perks of having more mobility each and every day.Once the Richmond Animal Care and Control posted a photo of Patches on their Facebook page, the news of a fat cat spread like wildfire, reaching Kay Ford, who was thinking about adopting an overweight pet. When her daughter sent her a photo of Patches, Ford immediately contacted the shelter to submit an adoption application. “I let them know that a special diet was nothing new to me. I had a Yorkie that was on chemo for three years and had a good quality of life,” Ford told PEOPLE. The shelter determined Ford would be able to meet the cat's needs and chose her as the adopter. Since his adoption, Patches has been living with Ford, her other cat Wellesley, and her senior Yorkie, Bella. Ford has even started a Facebook page for Patches shortly after his adoption, to keep others updated about his health. Little did she know that the page Patches’ Journey would have over 10,000 followers in a few days. Today, the page has nearly 50,000 followers who are eagerly expecting “Weigh-in Wednesdays.” Weigh-in Wednesdays are the day Ford weighs Patches on a scale and shares the results. On April 17, two days before his first adoption anniversary Patches weighed 25.4 pounds. That’s over 15 pounds less than he weighed when he arrived at Richmond Animal Care and Control. Ford celebrates her cat’s success daily, encouraging him as he accomplishes his weight loss goals. “He’s doing great. He really is. He is just a normal pet,” said Ford. Although Patches still can’t jump on the bed or fully groom himself, he has cleared almost all other obstacles thanks to the increased mobility he has gained after losing weight. “I couldn’t control my emotions the first time he jumped up on the radiator cover. It was a couple of days before Christmas, and I remember saying, ‘It’s a Christmas miracle,’” said Ford. Patches now jumps on the radiator cover regularly and uses the window perch to enjoy the views. Once the weight started to come off, Patches became more energetic and started to play with toys and his feline friend, Wellesley. “It just happened the way it was supposed to happen. He was able to achieve almost every milestone that he needed to achieve to become a real cat, not Macy’s Day Parade balloon,” Ford said. Patches made great progress thanks to his owner’s commitment to his diet. To owners who want to help their pets lose weight, Ford advises “patience, commitment, and diligence.”“This would never have happened if I had given in to whining,” she added. “The hardest thing is not giving into the begging. What I say to people is ‘Get it in your head that instead of asking you for food, they’re asking you for attention and to help them become a healthier cat or dog.”This duo is looking forward to another year of sharing Patches’ weight loss journey with his fans. The Facebook page took off more than Ford hoped for and the online community has been extremely supportive of Patches’ efforts to lose weight.“We have been 100% positive from day one,” said Ford   Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.ear

How Do I Keep My Pet Comfortable During a Power Outage?

Power outages can be stressful for everyone, but have you ever considered what this experience may feel like for your pet? Imagine witnessing the lights flicker and then go out, leaving you in darkness while unable to understand why it happened.While we can’t sit down and have a conversation, explaining what they are experiencing, there are steps we can take to keep them comfortable.This article will explore some easy strategies to keep your pet safe during a power outage, including reducing stress levels and keeping your pet cool (or warm) until the power returns. Plus, I’ll give you a list of must-have supplies to ensure you’re prepared for the next power outage.Let’s get started…Do Pets Get Scared When the Power Goes Out?Whether your dog or cat will be scared or anxious during a power outage will depend mainly on their personality. Some pets will find the experience frightening, while others will carry on their day as if nothing has changed. The best way to predict how your pet will respond is by observing how they act in other new situations.There are a few potential triggers for stress and anxiety that you may want to take into consideration:Alarm systems, smoke detectors, and other similar items in the home may beep to alert you that the power has gone outA power surge could cause a “pop” or “boom” sound if it impacts electronics in the homeThe loss of a comforting white noise, like a fan, can increase stress in some petsPower outages often coincide with storms, which can be a source of stress and anxiety for some petsStress or anxiety felt by human family members as a response to the power outage can influence the stress levels of our pets

Cats Grieve, According to Study

Pet parents know how difficult it is to lose a companion, but some people are unsure of whether cats grieve like people do when another pet dies. A recent study has revealed that, yes, cats do grieve. Keep reading to learn about how the study was conducted and what the researchers discovered.

Strict Rules for Bringing Your Dog Across the US Border Start Aug 1st

All the Canadians who were considering bringing their pooches across the U.S. border are now facing new and very strict rules. Coming into effect August 1st, this new rule will require all owners to own vet-approved documentation that would prove that the dog was vaccinated against rabies. All those who were used to journeying to the USA will have to navigate these strict new regulations. The new rules were introduced by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and prevent casual crossing of the international border with a canine. Instead, owners are required to present papers to the CDC in advance of a planned trip, and thus prove that their pooch is healthy, vaccinated against rabies, and has a valid microchip. In simpler terms, spontaneous travel to the USA is no longer possible.So, beginning this August 1st, your dog will have to be at least six months old to travel to the U.S. and fulfill all the conditions above as well. Of course, owners have to be understanding too: these new measures are there to keep the U.S. free of rabies. One additional condition on the list is a requirement that “your dog hasn’t been in one of over 100 countries where rabies is not under control, in the previous six months.”To help owners fully understand all these - and other - regulations, the CDC launched its special DogBot application that makes everything easier to understand. Even so, many owners are finding these changes radical. For years, taking your dog across the U.S. border was simple, regulated by border officials, and required few if any documents. But that is all about to change coming this August. Owners will have to complete a string of tasks before even considering travel. Vaccinations, vet visits, microchips – the list is hefty and mandatory. Many owners concluded that this new rule implies treating a dog as “chattel”, a thing you own, and not a friend and family member. But it’s not just the perception, but rather the unnecessary complications that come with it – you have to have a form filled out by a vet, to ensure that the microchip your pet has is compatible with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). This brings up the question of whether the chips issued by vets are compatible with the ISO. So far, there is no explanation issued by the CDC to resolve this. The new rules also affect doggos that are younger than six months and thus cannot be vaccinated against rabies. Before, they could enter the U.S., but now this is no longer possible. Besides, the new rules and form requirements will be an additional expense for owners, who would already be burdened with the costs of travel.Needless to say, the regulations will also have major implications for breeders, show dog owners, rescue organizations, and others. “If you don’t follow CDC’s rules, your dog won’t be allowed to enter the United States,” warns the CDC. “If denied entry, your dog will be sent back to the last country of departure at your expense. Country of departure is where the last trip originated - not where the dog was born or where it lives.”

The US National Park Service is Being Sued Over Stray Cats

The US National Park Service was sued by a non-profit organization due to its controversial plan to remove the famous stray cats of Puerto Rico, a historic district in the US territory. The lawsuit was filed by  Alley Cat Allies, a non-profit based in Maryland, and it comes four months after the radical announcement that left many in shock. The Federal agency revealed that it would contract an animal welfare organization to remove around 200 stray cats that live in Puerto Rico’s historic seaside fortress in Old San Juan. What the organization still hasn’t decided upon is whether the captured stray cats would be placed in foster homes, kept in shelters, adopted, or face a different fate. What is more, the federal agency did not reveal if a third-party organization has been hired yet. The National Park Service also added that it would hire a “removal agency” if the organization it contracted ultimately failed to remove the cats within a six-month period. The news caught many by surprise, as many locals – and tourists alike – loved the cats, and many considered them a delight and a local attraction. Alas, many considered the cats a nuisance too, as the National Park Service stated in a report in 2022 that the cat population in the city had grown out of proportions and that the smell of feces and urine in the area was becoming too strong.The announcement of their plan roused many animal rights activists, who say that six months is not enough to remove such a great number of cats. They fear that, as a result, many cats would be killed. Ultimately, the Alley Cat Allies filed its lawsuit in an effort to ensure the best possible outcome for the felines in question. They requested additional environmental statements from the National Park Service, and asked that “a judge find its actions allegedly violate acts including the National Environmental Protection Act.” It remains to be seen what will be the fate of these kitties – but one can only hope they won’t be harmed in the process. 

About Privacy Terms Contact us Copyright
© 2024  VerticalScope Inc. All rights reserved.