Basic First Aid Tips for Dogs

by Kate Barrington

Published: April 4th, 2016

Accidents happen… do you know how to handle first aid basics if your dog is hurt? Don’t get caught unprepared when your pooch has a minor medical mishap.

Dogs are curious creatures by nature and they have a habit of getting themselves into trouble. Unfortunately, dogs often can’t tell the difference between a bit of innocent fun and something that could seriously hurt them. Because you can’t cover your dog in bubble wrap, you’ll need to be to perform basic first aid if your dog needs it.

Stocking a First Aid Kit

You never know what kind of trouble your dog might get into so it is a good idea to keep a fully stocked first aid kit handy. Here’s a list of what should be stocked:

Pet first aid book
Absorbent gauze pads and bandages
Adhesive medical tape
Antiseptic wipes or spray
Cotton balls and swabs
Hydrogen peroxide
Ice packs/heat packs
Non-latex disposable gloves
Rectal thermometer
Scissors and tweezers
Emergency blanket
Sterile saline solution
Antibiotic ointment
Styptic powder
Splints and tongue depressors
Flashlight
Plastic syringe/eye dropper
Nail clippers

Poisoning and Toxic Exposure

Dogs will put anything and anything into their mouths, even poisonous or toxic substances. If you suspect that your dog has ingested a poisonous or toxic substance, you may need to take immediate action to prevent serious damage. If you can tell what your dog just ate, read the label to find out what to do in the event of exposure. If your dog’s skin or eyes have been exposed to a toxic substance, wash his skin well with soap and water (be sure not to get any in his nose or eyes). If the substance is in your dog’s eyes, flush them with water and call an emergency veterinarian immediately.

In the event that your dog ingests a harmful substance, your first move is to call the Animal Poison Control Center hotline at (888) 426-4435. If you know what your dog ingested, have the container on hand and be ready to provide key information about your dog including his age, breed, and weight as well as any symptoms he may be exhibiting. If your dog vomits – or if the hotline recommends that you induce vomiting – collect any material and bring it with you when you are able to visit the veterinarian.

Burns and Open Wounds

If your dog burns himself your first step is to determine whether it is a chemical burn or a physical burn. In the event of a chemical burn, flush the area immediately with large quantities of water. For a physical burn, apply a cold compress to the area and keep it in place until you can seek veterinary care. For open wounds, your first action depends on the severity and the amount of bleeding. Use a gauze pad or a clean cloth to apply firm pressure to the area until the blood starts to clot – this could take several minutes. Hold pressure for at least three minutes before checking. If your dog exhibits signs of internal bleeding (bleeding form the nose, mouth, or rectum), wrap him in a blanket and seek emergency veterinary care immediately.

You never know what kind of trouble your dog will get into but there may come a day when you are glad that you learned the basics about dog first aid. No matter what the problem is, make sure that your dog is stabilized and safe and call a veterinarian immediately. If the problem is minor and your dog can be safely moved, transport him to an emergency vet as soon as possible.

Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

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4 Basic First Aid Tips For Cat Emergencies

Know what to look for before an emergency with these first aid tips for cats Knowing what steps to take during an emergency involving your cat can be the difference between life and death. Basic first aid can stabilize your kitty until you can reach the vet, where he can get the prompt treatments he’ll need to make a full recovery. Consider taking a course on pet first aid, but below are a few tips to get you started. Knowing What’s Normal for Your Cat If you lay your kitty down on his right side, you’ll be able to feel his heartbeat at the point where his left elbow touches his chest. You can also feel the pulse by touching the inner thigh after laying your cat down on his side and gently lifting the upper hind leg away from the lower leg. Put two fingers as high up on the inside of either leg as possible, where the leg and body meet. You should feel a recess around the middle of the leg, which is where the pulse can be felt. A cat’s heart rate should be between 160 and 220 beats per minute. Related: How To Administer Medications To Your Cat If you have a thermometer, take your cat’s temperature, which should be between 100°F and 102.5°F. And check your pet’s breathing rate, which should be between 20 and 30 breaths per minute. Finally, lift your cat’s lower or upper lip to check the color of the mucous membranes, which should be pink. They shouldn’t be pale yellow, white, brick red, cherry red, brown, or blue, as these colors are all indicative of an emergency. If you press your finger gently on the gums, they should turn white briefly and then back to pink again after one or two seconds. If there’s a delay in this capillary refill time or if the color returns too quickly, your cat should see a vet right away. Burns First degree burns are superficial and characterized by red skin, tenderness, pain, swelling, and singed fur. Second degree burns go deeper and result in blisters, redness, tenderness, swelling, and loss of fur. Third degree burns involve all the layers of the skin, along with blood vessels, and cause a lot of damage. Skin that isn’t sensitive to touch, as well as loss of skin, swelling beneath the skin, black, leathery, or whitish skin, and shock are all symptoms of third degree burns. Related: Natural Remedies for Feline Arthritis Apply cool water to the affected areas as soon as you can. You can also place a cool compress or a moist, clean cloth or sterile nonstick pad on the burns. Never put any butter, petroleum jelly, or ointments on burns. Instead, take your cat to a vet immediately. In the case of a powdered chemical burn, brush off the powder before applying the water. Dehydration Dehydration can occur as a result of vomiting, diarrhea, fever, refusal to eat or drink, exposure to excessive heat, and an increase in urination. Symptoms include excessive thirst, a dry mouth with dry gums, sunken eyes, a loss in skin elasticity, and changes in urination habits. To determine if your cat is actually dehydrated or not, pull up the skin behind your cat’s neck between the shoulders gently. The skin should return back to a normal position right away, usually within two seconds. If it goes back to its original position slowly, your cat is dehydrated. If your cat is very old, very skinny, or obese, this test will be difficult to perform, so feel the gums to see if they’re sticky or dry, which is a sign of dehydration as well. You need to take your dehydrated pet to the vet right away, especially if he’s vomiting and isn’t eating or drinking. The vet will be able to provide intravenous fluids to rehydrate your pet quickly. If you’re in doubt as to whether or not your pet is dehydrated, play it safe and bring him to the vet. Hypothermia Hypothermia occurs when your cat’s body temperature drops drastically. Your pet’s temperature will be below 95°F, the heart rate will be slow, the mucous membranes will be blue or pale, the pupils may be dilated, the pulse will be weak, and the body will be shivering. This is a medical emergency, and you must bring your cat to the vet right away, but you should take the following steps in the meantime. Remove your cat from the cold environment and wrap him in a blanket. Placing warm water bottles, wrapped in towels, next to your cat will keep him warm while you get him to the vet. Once again, a course in pet first aid, which will teach you how to look for signs of shock and how to treat it, as well as how to perform CPR if needed, would come in handy in the case of a feline suffering with hypothermia.

5 Basic Tips For Introducing Dogs To Strangers

A stranger is just a friend your dog hasn’t met – make a good first impression with these tips for introducing dogs to strangers Meeting new people is an important part of your dog’s ongoing socialization training. Since every dog has its own personality, the way they react and interact with people in different environments can differ. When it comes to introducing dogs to strangers, you’re in for a variety of scenarios depending on where the introduction is taking place. If it’s at home, your dog may be protective of you and your home. Or your dog could be overly excited to meet new people – jumping up and licking them may translate to your dog’s version of a hand shake. No matter where you are, you want your dog to be relaxed, calm and gentle when they meet a stranger. We’ve put together some tips on how to make both strangers and your dog more comfortable when meeting for the first time. You’re in control. If you know someone is coming over to your home, prepare yourself by keeping your dog on a leash. Once the doorbell has been rung, it’s important to correct your dog’s unwanted behavior (barking, charging the door) in a calm but firm manner. Because your dog is on a leash, you’re in control of the situation. Once the stranger is inside, greet them first, making sure they acknowledge you before the dog. Then it’s your dog’s turn. Let your dog gently sniff your guest once they are settled down. After a few sniffs, your dog should feel more comfortable with the situation. Alternatively, you can teach your dog the ‘place’ command, directing them to go lay down on a designated dog bed or mat until released. This will give your guest time to come in the door and get settled before your dog is allowed to come greet them. Not only will this make the situation more comfortable for your guest, but it will also give your dog time to calm down. Many bad behaviours that occur during that initial greeting are a result of being overly excited. Don’t forget to stay in control of the situation when your dog is released and allowed to come over and say hello. To make this easier, you can leave the leash on your dog while giving the place command so that you simply need to take hold of it when they are released. Lots of rewards: If your dog exhibits a behavior you like, reward him! When he is calm, sitting or lying down when a stranger comes into a room, he deserves treats and praise. Even better – let the stranger give your dog the treat. That way, not only will your dog learn that calm behavior earns him om nom noms, but so do nice strangers! After you work through the initial meet and greet, you likely want to enjoy this visit with your friends or family. One easy way to make this happen is to consider offering your dog some form of distraction. Choose something high value that will draw their attention away from your guests such as a KONG toy filled with their favourite treats or a flavoured chew toy that they enjoy. If your dog is calm enough at this point, you can give them the distraction on the floor at your feet while you continue to hold their leash as a backup. However, if you notice that your dog is having a harder time staying calm, you may wish to remove them from the space and give them their distraction in another room. Keep it short at first: These meetings should be kept short, especially if you have an anxious or easily excitable dog. If you’re getting the feeling that your dog is getting aggressive or agitated, take the process slow. He’ll still be on his leash, so you’re in control of the situation. He may need to stay on the leash for the duration of the visit. No matter how anxious your dog is, it is important that you set a good example for him. Stay calm, don’t yell commands and offer lots of encouraging support. Calming commands: The basic obedience commands of “Sit”, “Stay”, “Off” and “Lie Down” should already be part of your dog’s vocabulary. And it’s not just about commands; it’s also about calming behaviors. Ask your guests not to make direct eye contact with your dog for a minute or two, and approach your dog slowly. Your guest should always direct the conversation to you, especially at first. Your dog will take this as a sign of disinterest, which will help to calm him. Your dog will feed off the energy in the room, including the energy that you are displaying and that of your guest. If you are both overly excited with loud voices and fast movements, this can encourage a higher level of excitement in your dog. On the other hand, if you keep yourselves calm with slower movements, lower volumes, and calm tones, it can help to calm your dog. If possible, talk to your guest about this in advance. We are often so happy to see friends and family that our initial greeting of each other can be high energy. By starting your visit off with the right energy, you are setting everyone (including your dog) up for success. A little space does a lot of good: If you’re in doubt, a doggy gate that keeps your dog securely away from guests may be your best option, at least when you’re getting started. The gate allows your dog to observe the stranger at a safe distance. Once he realizes that this person is harmless, he’ll be more open to an introduction over time. In some cases, you may consider removing your dog from the room entirely. Having visitors over can be overwhelming which can escalate the situation quickly. If you have an overly excitable dog or a young puppy, this is even more likely to be a problem. This could be done by taking them to another room that has been fully dog-proofed where they can relax and take a nap, placing your dog in their crate or having them relax with another family member in another area of the home while they calm down. This doesn’t mean that they must stay away the whole time that your guests are visiting, but that time apart may be just what they need to calm down and return to the situation with a completely different energy level. If your dog exhibits overly aggressive behavior in the presence of strangers, you must bring in a trained profession to correct the issue. Failure to do so could cause serious issues – your dog could bite and seriously injure another person, which could result in a mandatory muzzle or dog seizure by animal control. What tips do you have to share? What do you do when you introduce your dog to new people? Please leave your thoughts in the comments section below.

Tips to Handle a Poison Emergency

You’ve got an emergency on your hands – you need to think fast. What do you do? Keep these tips around in case you have a poison emergency. What should you do in the event that your pet has ingested something toxic? We’ve compiled a short list of steps so that you can know what to do in advance, as a poison emergency needs to be dealt with promptly. Keep Calm and Call Your Veterinarian If your pet has ingested something toxic, getting help right away is imperative. You should immediately call your vet to let him or her know what happened and when it happened, and to receive guidance on what you should do next, whether that involves rushing your pet to the veterinary hospital or inducing vomiting at home according to the vet’s instructions. Related: What to Do if Your Dog is Poisoned Note: in addition to calling your vet, you can also contact the Pet Poison Helpline, which is available 24/7 (their number is 855-764-7661). Yet another option is the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, which is also available 24 hours a day every day of the year (their number is 888-426-4435). It’s important to receive expert guidance in an emergency situation like this, so don’t hesitate to contact the professionals. The sooner you get your pet help, the better. If you aren’t sure if your pet ingested something toxic, or you aren’t sure of when it happened, call the experts anyway, as they can guide you in the right direction towards ensuring your companion will be okay. Pro tip: Keep your vet’s phone number, poison helpline numbers, and emergency veterinary hospital numbers stored in your phone. That way, in an emergency, you can call right away. Keep Your Pet in a Safe Place and Evaluate Symptoms If your pet is still near the toxin that she ingested, or that you suspect she ingested, take her to a safe area, and make sure your pet doesn’t consume any more of it. Related: Basic First Aid Tips for Dogs Check your pet’s symptoms right away. Is she breathing? Is she acting normally? Or is she showing any signs that something is seriously wrong? Even if your pet isn’t showing any symptoms, contact your vet, as some poisons don’t cause symptoms right away. Don’t induce vomiting or try any home remedies unless your vet tells you to do so. We know that it’s hard, but remaining as calm as possible is key, as you’ll be able to think more clearly throughout this scary situation. You’ll be able to evaluate your pet’s condition, clearly articulate what happened, and follow the vet’s instructions more easily if you aren’t panicking. Get a Sample of the Toxin If you have access to the poison that your pet ingested, collect some of it so that you can show your veterinarian. You can even save the packaging that the toxin was found in so that your vet will have more information about what your pet consumed. Can’t get an actual sample of the poison? It’s helpful if you can at least write down the name of the product that was consumed, the strength (such as the milligrams of a medication), and the active ingredients in the product. If the product has an EPA registration number, write that down too. Is your pet vomiting, passing stool, or experiencing diarrhea? It might be gross, but consider getting samples of those, too, as your vet might be able to use them to determine the cause of the poisoning and the appropriate treatment. Basically, give your vet as much information as you can over the phone, and bring that information with you to your vet’s office as well. Doing so will help the veterinary team determine what treatment is best, and it can help them save much-needed time. It’s Important to Act Fast Bottom line: during a poison emergency involving your dog or cat, you must act fast. The sooner your pet can get help, the greater the odds of a recovery.

How to Perform the Dog Heimlich Maneuver

No owner looks forward to facing emergencies with their pet. Whether it is an injury, an accident, or choking on food, it’s bound to be a lot of stress, for your and your pet. Still, it pays to be prepared for all scenarios. There’s always a possibility something could happen out of the blue, especially related to food and choking, and a diligent owner needs to be prepared for such a situation. Dogs can choke on many things: food, toys, or random objects that look edible. After all, doggos are known to be silly and put everything in their mouth, and often gulp down food voraciously. In case of an emergency, do you know how to perform the dog Heimlich Maneuver?For many people, if someone near them started choking, they wouldn’t hesitate to take action and administer the Heimlich maneuver. It is one of those classic life-saving performances that everyone knows, at least to a degree. But what do you do when a dog starts choking? The procedure is entirely different, right? There’s a real possibility that it could happen to you at some point of your pooch’s life. There is such a thing as the dog Heimlich maneuver; it just takes a slightly different approach than you would have for a human.When a dog or cat chokes, it can be a scary situation for any pet parent. Fortunately, if you know the most common choking hazards in pets, then you can get your pet the help she needs and, in some cases, prevent choking all together. Here are five common causes of choking in pets.What Would Make A Dog Choke?There are several reasons a dog might choke and need the Heimlich. Here are some of the most common.Foreign ObjectsThis is the biggest thing you need to worry about with dogs and choking. They are curious by nature. They like to eat by nature. They find stuff and destroy it, naturally. But dogs accidentally inhaling whatever it is that they’re chewing on can choke. Sometimes these are super tiny toys or their fragments, a piece of trash they found interesting on their walk, or anything in between. A particularly naughty and overly curious doggo might gulp these down with zero hesitation. And that’s not just things they shouldn’t have. It can be as easy as them inhaling parts of their chews, their bones, their stick…essentially anything smaller than their windpipe or the back of their throat can lodge and choke them. While the dangers of all this are fairly minimal, the possibility still exists.Supervise chewing, and take chews that are too small away. Never give them rotten and crumbling sticks to chew on, and quickly forbid their snooping into forbidden tiny things.Collapsing TracheaThis is a common cause in senior small breeds. The Heimlich may not always help because it’s an actual collapse of an organ but if your dog has something lodged in combination, you can still save his life with the procedure.Constricting CollarsMany owners seem to have trouble finding appropriate and fitting collars, or mistakenly think that collars should be tight. This is wrong. Be careful of constricting collars. This may prevent them from swallowing appropriately, or their airways to be fully open as they eat, and this can cause a problem. Make sure there is enough room for two fingers to slip under their collar to prevent issues. Also be careful with natural leather collars that might shrink in size if they dry out after being wet. All in all, you want to be as careful as possible with your choice of dog collars – they might do more harm than good if not chosen with care. First Steps to Take with a Choking DogIf you suspect that your dog is choking, the first thing you need to do is remain calm – becoming hysterical will not help anyone. In fact, dogs can sense what their owners are feeling and if you become worried and upset, your dog will too and that will just make matters worse. The next step is to confirm that he is choking and to attempt to remove the object by hand. If this first step is not possible, then you must proceed to the Heimlich maneuver itself.Related: Basic First Aid Tips for DogsCarefully approach your dog and speak to him slowly in a soothing voice. Even if your dog has never bit anyone in his life, he might snap if he feels threatened or afraid. And in the situation of choking, their fear might be off the charts. Place one hand on top and one hand on the underside of your dog’s muzzle and gently open his mouth – look inside to see if you can see something blocking your dog’s airway. If you see an object, try to remove it by hand, being careful not to let your dog bite you. If you cannot see the object or if you cannot reach it, you may need to administer the Heimlich maneuver on your dog.Administering the Dog Heimlich Maneuver

Playful Pup Stabs Owner During Game of Keep-Away

Never bring a dog to a knife fight! A lovable puppy who thought she’d found herself a new toy accidentally stabbed her owner, and left local law enforcement wondering what happened. “The dog ate my homework!” is often thought to be a far-fetched excuse, right? But what about, “The dog stabbed my arm?” Celinda Haynes, a Hudson, Colorado woman found herself calling that exact complaint in to her local 911 recently when her almost two-year-old lovable pup Mia accidentally stabbed her in the arm. Yes, accidentally stabbed her. If you’re like us, you may wonder how that happens?! Related: Five Books To Help Communication With Your Dog Turns out that her playful girl Mia likes to get things and then to play keep-away from her mama. Mia is tall enough to reach the counters of her kitchen and found herself a new toy–a sharp knife that she picked up in her mouth and held with the blade down and out. Recognizing the danger for Mia, Haynes tried to bribe her with a treat to get her to drop the knife altogether–and Mia alllllmost fell for it. She did indeed want the treat, but, ever the retriever, didn’t want to drop the knife, so it dragged as she went for the treat…leaving Haynes with a four-inch gash across her arm and law enforcement being very suspicious about just how it happened. Related: Basic First Aid Tips For Dogs The copious amounts of blood and hard-to-believe story led officials to suspect Haynes was a victim of domestic abuse, though Haynes’s husband was not even home at the time of the stabbing. When officials went to the ‘crime scene,’ and investigated, they found Mia unwilling to discuss the incident, and eventually had to conclude that the playful Mia really did mean no harm. She was happy to pose for several goofy mug shots, though! And while Mia got off with a warning this time, they’ve officially listed the case as a, ‘suspicious case,’ with good cause–Haynes did admit to the investigators that Mia would easily, “Lick someone to death.” Mia, we’re watching you!

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Auf Wiedersehen Wiener Dog - Will Germany Ban Dachshunds?

Germany’s beloved dog breed, the dachshund, could soon be banned under a new law that prohibits the breeding of dogs with “skeletal anomalies”.The draft of the bill, published in February, is currently being reviewed by the authorities and was introduced as a part of the Animal Protection Act. The new bill aims to strengthen existing laws on “torture breeding” and to regulate the online animal trade. The draft of the protection law said it could ban the reproduction of breeds prone to particular health problems, such as spinal problems linked with short legs and long back which are characteristic of the dachshund breed.According to the German Kennel Club (VDH), the bill could be interpreted as a ban on breeding dogs with any major size deviation from the original wolf type. In addition to dachshunds, other dog breeds like the German shepherd, miniature schnauzer, beagle, and Jack Russell terrier could be affected by the bill. The breeding restrictions could also be applied to flat-faced breeds like the English bulldog, pug, and French bulldog.“Some of the disease characteristics listed in the draft law are too vague and undefined,” said Leif Kopernik, the chief executive of the VDH. “Whether too small or too large, if the Animal Welfare Act were to be implemented in its current form, many popular and healthy breeds could be banned from breeding,” he said, according to the New York Times. The VDH has launched a petition to save “our favorite dogs” saying the proposed bill would leave too much room for interpretation in deciding what can be considered a genetic defect. The German Kennel Club agrees that many of the proposed changes, such as stricter regulations for online animal trade and taking action against illegal puppy trade are good measures that make sense. “However, the animal protection law contains requirements that could mean the end of many healthy dog breeds in Germany,” said VDH on its website.Although the proposed changes could affect several dog breeds, the dachshund is at the center of the discussion. Often called dackel by Germans, the dachshund has been the country’s national symbol for many years. The breed has been around for several centuries and was bred specifically for digging and clawing into underground dens to hunt for badgers. These sausage-shaped dogs have strong claws and sharp teeth which proved extremely useful when hunting. According to Sandra Karthauser, a breeder of rough-haired dachshunds from Munster, there is no evidence that dachshunds are sick due to their appearance. However, she admits that certain breed lines might be predisposed to herniated discs and other health issues.“But to ban the whole breed because of this, that doesn’t make sense to me. Then you can also ban Labradors because some suffer from hip dysplasia along with other breeds that might suffer from debilitating diseases and ailments,”  she added.Germany’s agricultural ministry refuted that the new bill would ban particular dog breeds, including the dachshund. “We aren’t seeking to ban the dachshund. What we are aiming at with this reform is a ban on torture breeding.”The goal of this new regulation is to forbid breeding practices that cause long-term suffering to the dogs. “We want to consistently protect animals from pain, suffering, and damage,” said the ministry adding that the new bill is still being reviewed. Germany’s dachshund lovers and breeders hope the breeding ban won’t happen now or in the future. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can Dogs Get Harvest Mites?

Harvest mites, also known as chiggers or red bugs, are tiny parasitic mites that feed on the skin of various animals - including dogs. That’s right - dogs can get harvest mites too. These tiny pests are common in warm and dry climates and are active during the late summer and early fall. It is because of this that they are called “harvest” mites. But don’t be fooled by their tiny size – these mites can cause significant discomfort to dogs, mostly due to the irritation that their bites can cause.What Are Harvest Mites? Are They Dangerous for Dogs?Belonging to the Trombiculidae family, harvest mites are this subclade’s larvae. They are almost microscopic, measuring only about 0.2 mm in size. These mites are bright orange or red, which makes them slightly easier to spot on a dog’s skin, though their small size still makes them difficult to detect. They tend to live in grassy or wooded areas and attach themselves to dogs, humans, or other animals when they come into contact with the vegetation where the mites live.Now, once a harvest mite attaches itself to a dog’s skin, they will inject saliva into it in order to break down the cells which they consume. Unlike fleas or ticks, which feed on blood, these mites feed on skin cells. It is this process that causes an intense allergic reaction in dogs, leading to inflammation and itching. The dog may develop red, raised bumps or welts at the bite sites, typically in areas where the skin is thinner, such as the paws, belly, ears, or armpits.Your furry friend might scratch or bite the affected area, in hopes of easing the irritation. But this can potentially cause further skin damage or further infections. While harvest mites do not burrow into the skin, their bites can remain itchy and uncomfortable for several days, even after the mites are detached and gone.Symptoms of Harvest Mites in DogsIt is important to note that intense itching and irritation are not the only symptoms of harvest mite bites. If a dog is repeatedly scratching or licking at a particular area, this could indicate the presence of harvest mites, so know what signs to look out for.Red bumps and welts will often appear on the dog’s paws, belly, ears, or between their toes.Itching that is caused by harvest mites can be intense, and if your pet is vigorously scratching this is a classic indicator.In some cases, dogs may lose fur around the affected area due to excessive scratching.Constant scratching or biting may lead to crusty patches or open wounds. This is one of the more advanced signs.Of course, you need to make sure that harvest mite infestation is treated as soon as possible. This typically involves relieving the itching and removing any remaining mites. Of course, you need to seek the help of a vet, who will prescribe the proper treatment for your pet's unique case.

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'PrePup' Agreement Helps Owners Co-Parent After a Breakup

When you end a relationship, things can get messy – even more so when you have a pet whose ownership you share with your ex. Your pooch shouldn’t be affected by the new state of things, though, which is why Rover.com created the “ PrePup Checklist”, specifically for this reason – to help couples that want a pet together consider what they would to ensure their dog’s well-being do in case their relationship doesn’t work out. The classic prenuptial agreement requires couples to think ahead and consider what would happen to their shared assets, specifically in the case of the death of a spouse or divorce. Similarly, Rover’s “PrePup Checklist” helps couples to consider how the shared responsibilities of pet ownership would be handled if – somewhere down the line – they were to split up. Of course, in difference to the prenuptial agreement, the “PrePup Checklist” is not a legally binding contract. Kristina Bergsten of The Animal Law Firm advises those who look to protect their pets legally to add “some paragraphs about who any pets belong to or what you're going to do if you adopt a pet during the marriage" to a prenuptial agreement. In August 2023, Bergsten told PEOPLE that if pets are not mentioned in a prenup, “the property settlement agreement will determine who gets the pet” in a divorce. And now, the “PrePup Checklist” wants to avoid making couples rely on property agreements so they can determine what happens to their pets during a divorce. Rover came to the idea of the checklist after conducting a survey that revealed that 56% of pet owners never discussed with their partner who would get the pet if they broke up.Rover’s checklist starts with prompts specifically asking owners to assign responsibilities for each “pet parent”. For example, who would be in charge of the walking schedule, and who would be in charge of the feeding, etc.The second part of this agreement asks new couples to consider “having difficult conversations about the future”, which includes the splitting of financial responsibilities of pet ownership, and deciding who the pet will live with in case of an eventual breakup."It's important for couples to elevate animal well-being and commit to co-parenting in healthy ways for the health and well-being of their dogs. It is widely recognized in animal welfare science that dogs and other animals can self-regulate and find innate strategies for coping with stress and anxiety when they are feeling safe, secure, and familiar with their social relationships," said Philip Tedeschi, a professor, and researcher on the human-animal bond who works with Rover."One of the most prominent indicators of their sense of security comes from their proximity to other members of the family. Having conversations about the future and what may happen if there is a disruption to a pet's life would benefit them, offer predictability, and keep them close to the ones they connect with," he added.The PrePup Checklist also includes a place where the couple’s new pet can “cosign” on anything that was discussed and agreed upon. The ultimate goal of Rover is to strengthen the bond between couples, but also between pets and their new owners.

Does My Dog Need a Stroller?

Is a dog stroller a necessity or an extravagant splurge? While some may raise an eyebrow at the site of a dog riding comfortably in their stroller, these seemingly luxury items offer many benefits for both dogs and their owners. From providing a safe and comfortable way to transport your dog in various settings to accommodating mobility concerns and enhancing their quality of life, let’s explore why a dog stroller may be a great choice for your dog. Plus, I’ll share tips for choosing the best dog stroller for your pup and how to incorporate it effectively into your daily routine. What Are Dog Strollers? Let’s start at the beginning. What exactly are dog strollers? Are they the same as baby strollers? Can the two be used interchangeably? While dog strollers look similar to baby strollers in many ways, they have a few key features that differentiate the two. Most importantly, dog strollers incorporate a way to keep your dog secured and held in place so they can’t hop out and escape, like a zippered mesh cover or a leash attachment that can be hooked to their harness. They are often described as a “fancy dog crate on wheels.” The most basic models are soft-sided dog crates with wheels and a handle. But most offer other features, like adjustable or padded handlebars, cup holders, storage pockets and compartments, sunshades, and ramps for easy access. Is it Okay to Put Your Dog in a Stroller? An important question that every pet parent should ask when being introduced to a new product is whether it’s actually safe and beneficial for your pet. After all, just because it’s being sold and marketed doesn’t mean it’s good for them. When it comes to dog strollers, the answer is “maybe.” If you have a healthy dog, only taking them out in a stroller and not making space for the exercise and physical activity they require can lead to a whole list of health problems. However, there are many situations where a dog stroller can be used to improve your dog’s quality of health. In short, this means that, yes, there are times when it is okay to put your dog in a stroller. It is our responsibility as dog parents to recognize the right time and place for their use. Are Dog Strollers Only for Small Dogs? One of the most common misconceptions about dog strollers is that they are only designed for small dogs or toy breeds. While this is arguably the most common type of dog stroller on the market, it’s not the only option. Recognizing the benefits these products offer, many brands now make dog strollers with larger dogs in mind. This includes creating sturdier frames that can support heavier weights, offering more room for large dogs to sit or lie down comfortably, and even adding features like ramps to help our larger friends get in and out of the stroller when lifting them isn’t an option. A great example is the HPZ Pet Rover Titan-HD, designed for dogs up to 100 LBS. So, while your standard stroller may not be the right solution (not without breaking it), big dog strollers are available!

ACANA™ Pet Food Team Announces Nationwide Kitten Cuddler Promotion

Are you the next champion kitten cuddler? Because ACANA™ is looking for one! Their latest campaign is aimed at supporting  cat shelters, which can be overwhelmed with newborn kittens during increased birth rates amongst cats. In a bid to help, ACANA™ will help both shelters and kittens in the critical stages – from arrival to adoption. ACANA™, the pet food specialists, are preparing for the upcoming “kitten season”, attempting to increase public awareness of just how much work shelters could have during this time. In their latest effort, not only will they be donating cat food to the shelters, but they will also be offering $10,000 to one lucky cat lover to do nothing more but cuddle with kittens at a  Best Friends Animal Society center. They do this in hopes of encouraging others to volunteer as “kitten cuddlers”. Hopefully, their efforts will lead to increased adoptions of kittens, and completely eliminate the killing of unadopted cats and dogs in America, a goal to which Best Friends Animal Society is wholly dedicated to. And now, the help is needed the most. The so-called “ kitten season” spans from May to November, and it is the time of the year when female cats have most of their kittens. During this period, many animal shelters report a great influx of kittens that need care and adoption. It goes without saying that caring for a large number of gentle and fragile kitties is a labor-consuming and very challenging job. A shelter’s resources and staff can be very strained in this period, so all the help they can get is more than welcome. The ACANA™ pet food team is well aware of this and is donating 5,000 cases of wet kitten food in Apri. This is equivalent to about $250,000 at retail prices and comes to roughly 120,000 meals for kittens. Not only this, but the team also encourages everyone to volunteer at their local shelters and help with the many tasks surrounding kitten care. And a very important task is, of course, cuddling! Kitties are fragile and require constant care and all the love and warmth they can get. It is because of this need that ACANA™ will reward one person with $10,000 to cuddle kittens! The lucky winner will spend half a day at a Best Friends Animal Society lifesaving center, or a chosen network partner shelter this June. For their cuddling efforts, they will receive $10,000. "We believe in the total well-being of cats," said Billy Frey, Vice President, Marketing for Champion Petfoods. "ACANA™ pet food helps cats thrive through every stage of life, and a cat's earliest days set the tone for everything that follows. This program demonstrates our commitment to taking care of both the emotional and nutritional needs of kittens."The rules of the contest are straightforward. The prospective kitten cuddlers must be U.S. residents, and aged 18 or over. Needless to say, they must love kittens and have four hours available over one weekend in June 2024. Easy, yes? Additionally, contestants must pass a background check and cannot be in a partnership with a competing pet food brand. For a chance to be selected, you can enter the contest between March 27th through April 10th, 2024. Cuddlers, good luck!

Why Does My Herding Dog Nip People?

Does your playful pup turn into a little velociraptor anytime they are around guests or even family members (especially children)? It’s a common struggle with herding dogs, but it doesn’t have to continue frustrating you for the rest of their lives! Herding dogs were bred with strong instincts to manage and control the movement of livestock. While that behavior is helpful when working in the fields, it can translate into unwanted nipping in everyday life. In this article, we’ll explain why herding dogs nip and, more importantly, how to train them to show their affection in a more acceptable way. What are the Personality Traits of a Herding Dog? Before focusing on this specific problem behavior, let’s take a step back and start at the beginning. What is a herding dog, and what personality traits are they most known for? Dogs classified in the Herding Group were bred specifically to gather, herd, and protect livestock. This means that they were bred with instincts that would help them perform their jobs safely and effectively. Some of the more common herding breeds include: Australian Cattle Dog Australian Shepherd Bearded Collie Belgian Malinois Border Collie Collie German Shepherd Dog Old English Sheepdog Pembroke Welsh Corgi Shetland SheepdogThese dogs are athletic and agile, allowing them to work with livestock on any terrain. They are also incredibly smart and can learn to follow even the most subtle hand movements. This means they are highly trainable but also have high exercise needs. Why Does My Herding Dog Nip People? Okay, these dogs are highly intelligent and full of energy – but how does that translate to nipping? If this is your first time living with a herding dog, you may be concerned that your dog has aggressive tendencies after seeing them nip at peoples’ ankles. You may be relieved to learn that this isn’t actually a sign of aggression. When your herding dog nips at someone’s feet or heels, they are tapping into their natural instincts. They are attempting to herd that person, just as they would with livestock in the field. Understanding this can help you view their behavior in a different light. The herding behavior is more likely to be triggered when someone mimics livestock in their eyes, running or playing around. Children are often on the receiving end for this reason, which can create a concerning situation.

According to ASPCA, These Are The Top 10 Pet Toxins of 2023

No matter how careful you are, accidents happen – this is particularly true when it comes to pet  poisoning cases. Not only that cats and dogs have some uncanny ability to get into stuff that they’re not supposed to get into, but you also can’t always know what things could be a potential toxin to them. And believe us when we say, there are a lot of potential pet toxins in an average household!The annual report by the  ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC)  only goes to prove this. Each year, they examine all the compiled data to determine which are the most commonly encountered pet toxins each year. It helps keep owners aware of the threats, and to keep vets always one step ahead. In 2023, the APCC was extra busy, having received hundreds of thousands of calls about items and substances that pets were exposed to. Incredibly, these substances totaled over 351,000!Even though they were contacted about such an imposing number of potentially hazardous substances, they managed to narrow down the most common culprits and compile the list of top 10 pet toxins in 2023, which will serve as a great reminder of what to look out for.Over-the-counter medications, including cold and flu medicines, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and vitamins and supplements. With 16.8% exposure, these medications are the number one threat in 2023. Almost every home has some sort of medications stored, and they aren’t always expertly hidden. Accidentally, pets can discover them and suffer many dire consequences if they ingest them. Human food and drink are almost equally as dangerous, with 16.2% reported calls. A lot of what we consume daily is toxic to pets. This can range from common items such as raisins, onions, garlic, grapes, or sweets, to more rare items such as protein drinks and bars, xylitol gums, and energy drinks. If your pet gets their paws on any of these, it can end up in an emergency vet visit. Prescription medications for humans are very dangerous to pets, and many reports were made in regard to inhalers, ADHD medications, heart medications, and similar. Prescription medications are often strong drugs and definitely not meant for pets.Chocolate is the number 4 threat for 2023. A staggering 13% of calls were related to this sweet. Dogs are mostly found consuming it as cats do not have sweet taste buds or the appetite of dogs. Still, chocolate is not meant for pets and can cause many side effects.Veterinary products are at number 5 with 8.3% reported exposures. Callers reported ingestion of chewable tablets or soft chews, many of them used for calming pets. Owners are urged to keep medicines locked away, as pets can like their sweet taste and go after them when you are not looking. Plants and fungi accounted for 8.1% of exposures. Dogs are inquisitive and can find these plants on their outdoor adventures. But many plants can cause a threat to dogs, so make sure to acquaint yourself with a list of toxic plants to look out for.Household products are also on this list, with 7.1% of exposures reported. Pets consumed various dangerous items, such as deoxidizer packets, batteries, and various miscellanea lying around the house. Be aware of what’s lying around that’s easy to reach.Rodenticides are a major threat to pets. People can use poisons to get rid of pests, but our pets don’t know that. If they ingest them, it can be extremely dangerous, leading to kidney failure, bleeding, and even death. When you are out on walks, always be careful what is lying around. Insecticides are almost the same. People use bug sprays, ant baits, and poisonous powders all over the place. Always make sure that the area you are in is free from anything that can be a threat to your pet. Recreational drugs are last but not least. With substances such as marijuana becoming increasingly legal, pets can come in contact with them as well. But there are also hallucinogenic substances such as mushrooms, especially psilocybin, and muscarine, which can be very harmful to pets. 

Are Bengal Cats Really That Wild? Here's What Science Has to Say.

Bengal cats are a truly stunning feline breed, in many ways. According to the International Cat Association (TICA), they hold the title of being the most popular cat breed globally, and it doesn’t really come as a surprise. Their unique and exotic appearance, their unavoidable charm, and their slender physique are certainly the reason for this prestigious title. But even though they are popular, Bengal cats are a relatively new breed in the field of domesticated cats. While most ordinary domestic cat breeds have been around for thousands of years, Bengal cats have been around for less than a century, which comes as a stark contrast. They are a hybrid breed as well, having been created in the 1960s. They came about from the crossing of the domestic cat (Felis Catus), and the Asian Leopard cats (Prionailurus Bengalensis), which are a small, spotted, wild cat species living in Asia. What makes the combination unique is the fact that these two cat species had a common ancestor about 6 million years ago, which means that the genetic differences between them are incredible. The differences are even greater than between humans and chimpanzees!The resulting breed is the Bengal cat, and it is adored for its exotic appearance. It has special spots, just like ocelots or leopards. But most folks ascribe the unique coloration and patterns of these felines to the DNA they received from their wild and distantly related ancestors. And that’s why scientific folks paid special attention to the ancestry of Bengal cats. Greg Barsh, MD, Ph.D., Faculty Investigator at HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology and Professor of Genetics at Stanford University,  himself an expert in the genetics of feline coat coloration and patterning is a key figure in the research process of Bengal ancestry. Together with his team, which is led by Chris Kaelin, Ph.D., and Kelly McGowan, MD, Ph.D., Mr. Barsh is working hard towards unraveling Bengal ancestry through the genetics of popular color traits."Cats are wonderful companions," he explains for  Phys.org, "but our interests go beyond their beautiful and exotic appearance. Like the amazing variation among different dog breeds, artificial selection can be a very powerful engine to create morphologic diversity. What's different about Bengal cats from dogs is the raw genetic material–dogs trace their heritage to wolves from tens of thousands of years ago.""In contrast, Bengal cats trace their heritage to completely different species from millions of years ago. Understanding how these distantly related genomes interact is a general question that applies to any situation when different species exchange genes, from crops to aquaculture to humans and Neandertals."And even though this is a relatively new breed, started about 60 years ago by a few cat enthusiasts, it has grown incredibly during this time. Today, there are hundreds of thousands of registered Bengal cats, which are produced by about 2,000 breeders. Chris Kaelin, the leader of the Bengal cat DNA study, said “Cat fanciers and breeders are very interested in the research, in part because they want to know more about the science behind artificial selection, and in part, because they want to know if our results can help them produce cats with rosettes, stripes, or other exotic markings.” He also added "This is a great example of citizen science–our work has been enabled by the willingness of breeders to participate, and we share our results with the community."One of the surprising discoveries that was produced from the study is that Asian Leopard DNA contributes no more than a few percent to the overall Bengal Cat DNA. In fact, it is revealed that there isn’t one or even a few Asian leopard genes that are causing the unique spotted Bengal appearance. "One of the original motivations for bringing together DNA from the two species was to select for Asian leopard DNA that would recapitulate the appearance of an exotic wild cat in a companion animal," said Kaelin. "It turns out that some of the most striking examples of selection in the breed are for traits that were already present, but very rare, in domestic cats."So, the study reveals that the Bengals are in many ways totally unique. Mixing the two very unique breeds resulted in a cat that is exotic, elegant, charming, and above all loveable. And now, the results published are providing valuable information to all the enthusiasts in love with the Bengal breed. 

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

Do Grooming Gloves Work?

Grooming your pet is crucial for maintaining their health and hygiene, especially if you have a dog that tends to shed frequently or spends much of their time playing in the dirt and mud. However, the grooming process can be messy and time-consuming. This leaves many pet parents searching for a more convenient solution.Recently, a new grooming tool has been gaining popularity: pet grooming gloves. These gloves feature soft, rubber nubs on the palms that work like a brush or curry comb, gently removing loose hair, dirt, and dander.But do these gloves live up to the hype? Or are they just another gimmick? Let’s explore the benefits, drawbacks, and effectiveness of pet grooming gloves, including my experience using a grooming glove with my four pets.What Are Pet Grooming Gloves?Grooming gloves are a grooming tool that the groomer or pet parent can wear, keeping their hands and fingernails clean during grooming. It also eliminates the need to juggle a separate brush, with the brush-like nubs built directly into the palm of the glove. As you run your and over your pet’s coat, the built-in bristles or nubs work like a brush to remove loose hair, dirt, dust, dander, and debris.Different brands of grooming gloves/mitts have nubs or bristles of various lengths or styles. Finding grooming gloves best suited for your pet’s coat type is the secret to success. For example, a short-coated dog will benefit from gloves with nubs similar to a curry comb, while a longer-coated dog may need a longer bristle to reach into their undercoat.What Makes the Grooming Gloves Stand Out?You may want to switch from a regular brush to using a grooming glove at least part of the time for several reasons. Here are some factors to consider:Bonding TimeWhile any grooming session offers quality bonding time for you and your pet, using your hand to groom them in a petting motion creates a unique experience. This brings you closer together, allowing you to connect, showing love and affection through trust, which is so important for strengthening that special bond pets and their people share.Cleaner GroomingNot only do grooming gloves keep your hands clean during grooming, as they are protected inside the glove, but they are also surprisingly easy to clean! I’ll break down the steps of quickly and effectively cleaning your gloves later in this article.FlexibilityHave you ever struggled to reach a specific spot on your dog during grooming? Stiff brushes and combs can make it hard to effectively groom the nooks and crannies like your pet’s armpits or, in smaller pets, even around their neck/face. Grooming gloves, on the other hand (or paw), flex easily with your hand.Benefits of MassageIn addition to removing dirt and loose fur, the nubs on your grooming gloves massage your pet’s skin. Not only is this a comforting and enjoyable experience, but it can also have some significant benefits, including removing dead skin, improving circulation, relieving muscle tension, and more.Comfort for the GroomerWhile most of this list focuses on the benefits grooming gloves offer your pet, it’s also a more comfortable solution for you. Holding a brush or comb for an extended time, regardless of how the handle is designed, will eventually lead to cramping in your hand. Wearing a grooming glove allows you to work through a long grooming session with minimal discomfort.How to Use a Pet Grooming GloveWhether you’re interested in experimenting with grooming gloves or making the switch, the first step is finding a pair that suits both you and your dog.Sizing: Most companies offer gloves in various sizes, accommodating pet parents of all sizes and ages, including “junior” or children’s sizes if your grooming routine involves the whole family. If you are shopping in person, take the time to try on different sizes to ensure you are purchasing the one that best suits your hand. For those shopping online, carefully measure your hand as outlined in the sizing guide to find the recommended size.Glove vs Mitt: There is no “right” answer as to whether you should purchase a grooming glove or a mitt. This comes down to personal preference. Gloves will allow you to maintain the use of your fingers, while a mitt can cover a wider surface area.Bristle Style: The most common grooming gloves are made with soft rubber nubs, more like a curry comb than a brush. However, there are other styles on the market. Take the time to explore your options and find the style that best suits your pet’s coat type.Once you have found the right glove, learning how to use them is simple.Spray the silicone or rubber surface of the glove with a bit of water before getting started. This will help collect the fur and dirt instead of letting it fall all over. Place your hand, palm down, on your pet’s coat and gently rub in the direction of their hair growth. Continue with this brushing motion around the body.When you notice that the hair has started to collect in the glove, carefully peel the fur off and dispose of it. Spray the glove before starting again. Continue until you’re happy with the state of your pet’s coat (or until they become agitated and clearly need a break).Is it bathtime in your house? You can also use a grooming glove in the bath to help work the soap into your pet’s coat. This also offers a layer of protection on your hands for those bathing pets that maybe aren’t as happy with the idea of getting wet. Cat parents, I’m looking at you…How to Clean Grooming GlovesOne of the reasons that pet grooming gloves are so popular is the ease of cleaning. Once you have removed the collected fur from the gloves, they can be rinsed or cleaned with soap and water. Allow them to air dry.Remember that a quick rinse may not remove all the dirt and dander they have collected. It’s a quick solution between uses, but a complete clean is needed periodically to keep the gloves fresh and clean.Do Grooming Gloves Work for Cats?Yes! While most grooming gloves are marketed to dogs and dog parents, they are an excellent option for any pet with fur to maintain. I have seen them used for grooming dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, horses, and even llamas.

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