Dog Travel Essentials: What to Pack for Your Dog

Kate Barrington
by Kate Barrington
Updated:  April 27th, 2022

Make a list and check it twice – here’s what you’ll need to pack when you bring your dog along with you on your vacation!

There is nothing more exciting than planning for a trip unless, of course, you get to bring your dog with you. Nothing beats having your four-legged bestie by your side! Dogs make excellent travel companions but there are a few things you need to be aware of before you decide to take your dog with you on your trip. To make the journey enjoyable and safe for both you and your pet, you’ll have to plan ahead and organize well. Certain travel necessities are a must for your to-pack list, as well as proper accommodations. If you’re taking your pet with you on a vacation, make sure to arrange for a pet-friendly hotel and plan ahead so that you bring with you all of the items your dog is likely to need when away from home. The same is true for all kinds of pet-friendly trips: whether you’re going camping, on a road trip, or visiting family in another state, you’ll have to make sure you have everything your pet might need during the journey.


There were some changes that happened recently that regulate flying with animals. Most importantly, changes to who counts as an emotional support animal and whether airlines recognize them or not have occurred. In December of 2020, the Department of Transportation said that airlines no longer had to give special consideration to pets once designated as Emotional Support Animals. This affects dogs in that just having your fluffy Fifi with you as emotional support won’t cut it anymore and even dogs are subject to various rules. Dogs can be considered trained service animals, but pets cannot. Even if they do give you emotional support.


Airlines will really be sticklers for this as well, so if you’re traveling by air with your dog, you’ll want to check with your individual air carrier and be sure you know what the guidelines for traveling by air with dogs are –be sure your airline will even allow it. Fees range for airlines, so don’t be surprised by extra cost either.


Below you will find a list of travel essentials to pack for your dog- you might add a few necessities unique to your pooch, but the listed items are a must for any four-legged tourist.


Water

Fresh drinking water is something your pet should never be without. Bring enough water to cover the trip, including stops and stay-overs (you can never be sure that there will be water available along the way). Also, you should have a suitable water bowl for travel- spill-proof travel bowls can be used in a car without worrying about water getting everywhere. Collapsible dog bowls from silicone or lightweight foldable nylon bowls are also a great choice. Similarly, dog travel water bottles offer a 2-in-1 solution for when you need to save some space- they are both a container for the water and a bowl for your pet to drink from.


If you are planning a longer trip, consider freezing some bottles of water. These will keep the remainder of the bottles cold, acting as an ice pack during travel. When they do melt, they are now filled with ice-cold, fresh water for you and your dog to enjoy.


Food

Where do you think you’re going without kibble and treats, eh? Pack as much food as your dog is going to need for the trip, as well as a little extra, and store it in an airtight container. You never know if you are going to get caught in a situation where your trip may have to be extended. From questionable weather to cars breaking down, the unexpected happens! If you are stuck staying at your destination for an extra day or two, do you have enough food to take care of your dog until you can get home or to a pet store that carries the brand that they eat?


Proper storing is crucial, as even dry food is prone to spoiling if it’s not kept in a dark and dry place. Of course, you’ll have to bring a food dish as well- there are travel bowls for dogs that fit inside your pocket. Or, if you prefer, you can get a whole dining on-the-go set for your pampered companion and make sure they’ll get to have their meal wherever and whenever. The choice is yours- as long as your pet gets his dinner on time, he won’t be picky about your choice of dishware.


Treats

Yummy rewards are the best way to get your pet to behave- and you want them to be on their best behavior when you’re traveling. Bring along some of your dog’s favorite treats to help him settle down if he gets nervous in the car or in the hotel. You can make your own if you prefer or go with more “challenging” treats that will keep them occupied enough to forget all about stress. Braided bully sticks or PB-filled Kong are tried and true choices. And if your pet struggles with anxiety when he has to ride in the car, try out calming dog chews to keep him mellow.


Keep a small bag of training treats in your pocket when you’re out and about traveling. This means that you are always prepared to reward your pet regardless of what situation you may encounter. It also gives you a little extra motivation to help nervous dogs get past their fears. For example, if you are outside for a pee break and your dog freezes up from all the hustle and bustle on the street outside your hotel, you can use these tasty morsels to grab his attention and encourage him to keep moving, as needed.

Toys

Don’t forget to pack some of your dog’s favorite toys to keep him entertained during the trip and to make him feel more at home when you stop for the night. If your pooch has a favorite plush toy, making the trip without it should be unimaginable. And even if they’re not obsessed with any particular toy, you can opt for some chewable or puzzle toys to give your doggo something to focus on. It will keep your pet occupied and away from any trouble, and you won’t have to worry about them becoming destructive out of boredom.


If possible, avoid bringing loud squeaking toys. While you may be able to ignore the noise that your dog is making, the same may not be true for everyone else. Most hotels have strict rules in terms of excessive noise, and a squeak toy constantly going would definitely qualify! This could land you with a hefty fine or even have you thrown out of the hotel entirely, depending on the mood of the hotel staff when they receive the complaint from the other hotel guests.


Extra leash and collar

It’s better to be safe than to be sorry- especially when you’re far away from home. You never know when a leash might break or get lost, so you should have an extra leash on hand when you travel. Also, getting a reflective dog collar personalized with your contact information for the trip is a good idea. In case your pooch gets lost in a new and unknown environment, having them wear easily noticed contact info could be a literal lifesaver. The first thing any good samaritan will check is for collar ID- a simple tag could prevent a lot of stress for your pet and yourself.


If you are going to be staying in one place for an extended period, consider adding a temporary tag with that information. For example, dog owners that have booked a room at a resort for a week-long stay could add a tag with their hotel room number and the dates of their stay. That way, if someone finds your dog, they will know where to find you quickly and easily.


Waste disposal bags

It goes without saying that you should always clean up after your dog when using public areas, so be sure to pack a supply of waste disposal bags so you can do so. The lavender-scented extra-thick poop bags are a perfect choice for traveling. Additionally, you might want to get a doo doo tube, or a container made to hold smelly (full) poop bags- you never know if you’ll have where to dispose of the bag on the spot. Ah, the things we do for our four-legged besties!


Try packing a few extras in random places where you may be when the need arises. For example, place a roll of poop bags in the pocket of your car door for bathroom breaks on the road or in the pocket of your favorite jacket so that it’s there waiting for you. Another option is to get a poop bag holder that will clip onto your dog’s leash, making it easy to grab a bag anytime that one is needed.

First aid kit

You never know when something unfortunate can happen- and it is always good to be prepared for those risky situations. Pack a container of essential items you may need to deal with minor injuries (include items like tweezers, gauze, bandages, tape, styptic powder, etc.). It’s also a good idea to bring some first-aid supplies in case of emergencies, such as activated charcoal, hydrogen peroxide, and OTC drugs. You can also get pre-assembled first aid kits for dogs if you’re not keen on assembling your own. Having these basic supplies on hand can end up saving your pet’s life- so double-check your luggage for it before you go.


Take a piece of paper or a small cue card and list out the important locations and numbers that you may need to know in the event of an emergency. This includes emergency clinics along your planned travel route and at your destination and the Pet Poison Helpline. Place this in a folder or envelope with your dog’s vaccination records, information about any medications or health conditions, identifying information (including his microchip number), and a photo of your dog if he is ever lost.


Towels

Be honest- is your pooch a messy little gremlin? Most dogs have an innate talent for getting dirty and when you’re away from home, keeping them clean can become quite the challenge. Having a few towels on hand will be useful if your dog gets wet or muddy. If you want to go that extra step, you can make your own mud mitten from an old towel, or buy an upgraded, super-absorbent version of the same.


Crate or kennel

No matter how well-trained your dog is, many professionals recommend keeping your dog in the crate during travel (he may also feel more comfortable sleeping in it at the hotel). There are tons of pet travel carriers to choose from, but if you want a crate or a kennel specifically, you can choose from soft foldable travel crates to waterproof nylon pens and everything in between. The best part is that they’re all lightweight and easy to store, so it won’t be a hassle to take them with you.

Brush or comb

Being on a holiday is no excuse for neglecting your pet’s beauty regime! Keeping your dog regularly groomed will help to reduce shedding (this will come in handy when spending long hours in the car) and make sure that there are no nasty tangles and mats in the fur. While not all dog breeds will need grooming on the go- especially those who are low shedding, it pays off to be prepared for every situation. In addition to your pet’s usual brush or comb for grooming, make sure to pack a tick remover and flea comb as well. You never know if a nasty parasite is lurking behind the corner!


Moist towelettes

Dog hygienic wipes are a must-have for any kind of pet-friendly trip, but especially camping or road trips: you want to keep your pet smelling fresh while he’s riding shotgun. These will come in handy for cleaning up your dog’s paws before he hops back into the car and for wiping nose prints off the windows. Also, if your pooch rolls in something stinky or dirty and you don’t have where to bathe them, a pack of wet grooming wipes will be heaven-sent.


Other Preparations

In addition to packing everything your dog needs for your trip, there are a few other preparations you need to make. First, check with your vet to make sure that your dog is healthy enough for travel and that he is up to date on all of his vaccinations. If you end up having to board your dog unexpectedly, most kennels will not accept dogs that have not had their bordetella vaccine.


Though your dog may be healthy enough to travel, that shouldn’t stop you from being prepared in the event of an emergency. Pack any medications your dog will need and make sure your dog’s I.D. tag is up to date with your current information. These little steps can mean the world in unfortunate situations so don’t overlook the importance of being prepared for the worst-case scenarios.


Traveling with your dog can be an adventure for both of you as long as you are fully prepared. Having everything you need for your pet to be safe and comfortable when accompanying you on your adventures makes the experience stress-free and so much more enjoyable! By using this packing list you should find that you have everything you need and by following the tips for other preparations, you should be confident that you are ready for your trip. So buckle up and hit the road!


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Kate Barrington
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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You might just be surprised at your dog's communication skills.

Pet Owners Distraught After Nationwide Drops Their Insurance Claims

Nationwide, the nation's largest pet insurance company, is canceling coverage for around 100,000 pets across the country, blaming inflation, rising costs of veterinary care, and other factors threatening the profitability of its pet insurance business. “ As pet lovers ourselves, we understand the emotions connected to the protection of our family pets. Inflation in the cost of veterinary care and other factors have led to recent underwriting changes and plan availability in some states - difficult actions necessary to ensure a financially sustainable future for our pet insurance line of business,” the company shared in a statement. This decision is leaving thousands of pet owners in a difficult situation. Although Nationwide insists that prior claims history and age aren’t a factor, most of the canceled policies are for older pets with pre-existing medical conditions that may not be insurable elsewhere. Nationwide, which insures around 1.2 million pets nationwide, began sending letters to the affected policyholders this spring and will continue to do so into the summer of 2025. The company’s statement comes only after policyholders started to complain on social media about the letters they received, especially owners of pets with pre-existing health problems that require several hundred dollars a month for veterinary care and medicine to treat. “Pet owners are contemplating euthanizing sick pets because they are uninsured, and all they can say is they need to make more money, so too bad,” said Robin Tobias of Aventura, Florida. She is one of tens of thousands of owners who received a letter from Nationwide in April notifying her that the policy for her dog Ginger won’t be renewed. Tobias shared the letter she received from Nationwide with The Columbus Dispatch. “After careful review of our products, we have elected to discontinue certain plans, including Whole Pet, which will no longer be offered in your state,” the letter said. “The same economic pressures from inflation, higher interest rates, and rising that have caused unprecedented losses for the American insurance industry are affecting the pet industry as well, leading to difficult decisions such as this.” Ginger’s insurance policy ends July 23. Tobias bought the policy when Ginger was just a puppy and pays $160 a month for insurance to cover a seven-year-old dog with a heart murmur. Nationwide’s latest move is concerning for many reasons and can even put additional pressure on already overcrowded animal shelters across the country. Owners of older pets with health problems may be forced to abandon their pets because they can’t afford to pay for medication and care and can’t get coverage from another pet insurance company. “That’s the reason why you take insurance,” said Tobias. “Down the road, you’re going to need it. It’s horrifying really.”“For us, dogs have been our children. Everything we do is to protect our children.” Tobias believes she has found a company that will cover Ginger, but she fears others won’t be as lucky. For Christie Keith who has been paying more than $700 a month in pet insurance premiums to insure her three dogs, the news came as a shock. The company’s decision to cancel her claims is particularly troubling because her older dogs both needed medical treatment recently. Nationwide notified Keith that policies for her dogs would expire at renewal dates and that she couldn’t purchase lesser policies for her dogs. Owners of pets with pre-existing medical conditions might be better off with other options, like saving up in advance for potential medical emergencies that can happen in the future. Another option is to find a vet willing to work on a payment plan. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Dog Gets Bitten in the Face to Save His Owner From a Venomous Snake

A dog from Colorado Springs is being called a hero after stepping between his owner and a rattlesnake, saving her from a venomous bite.The pup’s name is Rizzo. The loyal and brave lab-mix has a wonderful personality and has been an essential part of his owner’s life, bringing emotional support and company.On Monday morning, Rizzo and his owner, Carrisa Welch, were hiking when a rattlesnake, lying in wait in the middle of the hiking trail, struck. “I heard the rattle, turned around, and instantly yanked him,” Rizzo’s owner told KRDO. Unfortunately, she pulled Rizzo too late, and he was bitten in the face. The poor pooch ended up spending a day and a half in the emergency room.“I wasn’t wearing my boots. Those were my trail running shoes - if he had not taken the bite I feel like it would have been me,” said Welch.Welch’s brother-in-law, Joshua Randall, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the cost of Rizzo’s treatment, which has created substantial expenses for his owner. According to the GoFundMe page, Rizzo has been an integral part of his owner’s life, bringing joy and companionship into Welsh’s everyday life. “His bravery and loyalty deserve recognition, and your contribution will ensure he receives the care he needs to heal and thrive once again,” wrote Randall in the campaign. Speaking with the local news outlet, Welch explained how Rizzo was there for her when she was dealing with mental health struggles in the past and that there’s no amount of money she wouldn’t pay to save her pup’s life. Rizzo is now home after racking up a few thousand dollars in vet bills. He has bald spots on the legs where the treatment was administered but is expected to make a full recovery.“I’m grateful and blessed to have him,” Welch said.Although only a few snake bites prove fatal before the dog receives emergency veterinary help, Rizzo was lucky to survive after being bitten in the face. The severity of the snakebite depends on several factors including, the dog’s size, the type and size of the snake, the amount of venom delivered, and the location of the bite wound. American Kennel Club advises owners to call their veterinarian or an emergency clinic immediately if a snake bites their dog. Owners should also inquire whether the vet or clinic carries the antivenom. Antivenom is the best treatment for snakebite and is the most effective when given immediately, but it will also work if administered hours or even days after a bite. Other possible treatments for snakebite in dogs include an opioid injection for the pain.Some veterinarians may attempt to treat snakebite on a dog using other methods, most of which are ineffective. Studies have shown that sucking out venom, antihistamines, ice, corticosteroids, antibiotics, and NSAIDs aren’t effective for treating venomous snakebites on dogs. Don’t take your dog to a vet who advocates the use of any of these methods for treating snakebites. This type of treatment won’t help your dog get better and you’ll also end up spending thousands of dollars for nothing. Eventually, when you decide to take your dog to another vet, you may not be able to afford the effective treatment your pooch needs to recover fully.If your dog gets bitten by a snake, try not to panic and always call the vet to ensure they have a proper treatment plan for venomous snakebites in place. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Do Cat Colors Affect Personality?

Have you ever wondered if your new kitten’s fiery ginger coat is a warning sign that you are bringing home a sassy whirlwind? Does your black cat’s sleek coat give off the vibes of a mysterious loner?There are many theories regarding the possible connection between a cat’s coat color and their personality traits. However, this leaves many cat lovers curious whether it’s all folklore or a connection exists.Let’s look at the science (or lack thereof) behind the relationship between a cat’s appearance and their personality. Plus, we’ll share the most common traits associated with each fur color and pattern so you can see if it describes your cat.What Determines the Color of a Cat Before discussing the connection between fur color and personality, let’s examine what actually causes different cats to have different coat colors and patterns.Like your hair or eye color, the appearance of your cat’s fur is a reflection of their genetics. This includes the color of the fur, how bright or diluted those colors appear, and any patterns their coat displays (like tabby stripes or calico patches).What is the Rarest Color for a Cat? The Most Popular? As with any genetic trait, some fur coats and patterns are more common than others. The rarest color is a solid-white coat. Less than 5% of the cat population is estimated to be completely white and void of any color (no additional marks or patterns). On the other end of the spectrum, the tabby is the most common cat coat pattern. While most people associate tabbies with vertical stripes along their body, the pattern can also present as splotches, circles, spots, or any combination of these markings.

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.

Can A Dog's Tooth Abscess Heal On Its Own?

Dental hygiene is very important, both for us and for our pets. You might not know this, but a dog’s teeth are very important for their health as dental issues pave the road for all sorts of health problems down the road. The first thing to go is their diet and digestion, and from there, it is all a steep path downwards. It is because of this that every owner’s task is to keep their dog’s chompers in pristine conditions. Fail to do so, and issues can soon begin appearing.Of course, there are various issues that could be the result of subpar oral hygiene, but one of the worst dental problems for dogs is a tooth abscess. If you’ve noticed something that looks like an abscess and wonder if you can do anything to make it go away or heal on its own by yourself, you’ll be disappointed to learn that this issue requires professional treatment. A tooth abscess needs to be looked at and treated by a veterinarian.  What Causes Tooth Abscess in Dogs and How to Treat ItWhile some minor dental issues in dogs can potentially resolve on their own, a tooth abscess typically requires veterinary attention. An abscess indicates a serious infection, and without proper treatment, it can worsen and lead to numerous complications. Your veterinarian can assess the severity of the abscess and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics, dental cleaning, and possibly tooth extraction. It's essential not to delay treatment, as dental infections can cause pain and discomfort for your dog and may even lead to systemic health issues if left untreated. However, the question still remains – what causes a tooth abscess in dogs?Dental abscesses are typically caused by bacterial infection, which can spread rapidly if not addressed promptly. Without proper treatment, the infection can affect surrounding tissues, leading to more extensive dental and oral health issues. It goes without saying that one such abscess can be very painful for your dog. It will lead to discomfort during eating, reluctance to eat or chew, excessive drooling, stress, and many other behavioral issues. If left untreated, an abscess can potentially wreak havoc on your pet. Not only can the infection spread to other parts of their body, but the nasty bacteria from the abscess can enter into the bloodstream and can ultimately affect vital organs, such as the liver, kidneys, or heart. Because of this, an abscess needs to be dealt with promptly. But how do you spot a tooth abscess? In many cases, it will be easy to spot that your pet is in discomfort. For example, you can spot changes in their eating habits. They might suddenly chew on one side only, avoid hard foods, or decline eating altogether. Another key sign is if a dog is suddenly pawing at their face as if trying to scratch themselves. Such rubbing and pawing is their attempt to alleviate the pain and discomfort they feel. You can also feel a foul odor on their breath or spot excessive drooling from the mouth. Needless to say, your dog will show signs that they are in pain, and might whimper or seem sad. In either of these cases, you should check their mouth cavity and try spotting the abscess to confirm that this is what ails them.

When Can a Puppy Start Eating Kibble?

One of the most exciting milestones in your dog’s puppyhood is the transition from milk and soft foods to solid kibble. This marks a major step in their growth and development and ensures that they receive all the important nutrients for a healthy life. But even so, some owners are uncertain about when exactly kibble should be introduced.Understanding the right timing for this can be crucial for their good development and overall well-being as it helps set a solid foundation for a healthy diet later on in life. So here’s what you need to know before you offer dry food to your puppy.When Can a Puppy Start Eating Kibble?In the early first few weeks of their life, puppies rely entirely on their mother’s milk for nutrition. Nature arranged it so that this milk provides all the essential antibodies that boost their immune system and nutrients that are vital for their early growth. Usually, puppies should stay with their momma and littermates until they are at least 8 weeks old. During this time, they gradually transition from nursing to exploring more solid foods.Around 3 to 4 weeks of age, however, puppies begin showing more and more interest in the food that their mom is eating, and will often nibble on solid foods. These can be softened puppy food or kibble soaked in water. This helps them to become accustomed to all kinds of different textures and flavors, which in turn prepares them for eventually switching to dry kibble and other solid foods.In general, puppies can begin eating dry kibble between 6 and 8 weeks of age. At this stage, their little teeth are developing, and they have the jaw strength needed to chew solid foods efficiently. Still, it is important to choose high-quality puppy kibble formulated specifically for their nutritional needs. Go for a formula that is based on natural, wholesome ingredients and doesn’t contain any nasty filler or artificial substances – meat should be the first ingredient on the list, followed by sources of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, such as veggies and fruit.

Microchip Helps Reunite Owners With a Lost Cat 5 Years Later

No bigger than a grain of rice, a microchip can save a life and help reunite a lost pet with their family. The Hall family understands the importance of microchipping after reuniting with a lost cat. Jeff and Cindy Hall were ecstatic after receiving news that their cat, Sam, was discovered in Arkansas five years after he first went missing. Cindy told the local NBC affiliate KARK that they received a phone call that their Russian blue cat was found at a gas station in Arkansas. The two women who have found Sam, have brought him to Jacksonville Animal Hospital. Using the information from Sam’s microchip, the women contacted PAWSitively Cats, an animal rescue organization, where the Halls adopted Sam when he was just 12 weeks old.  The women who found the feline were a part of the Alone 2 Home pet transport crew and were in the middle of transporting two dogs when they came across Sam. “We had him for seven years and then one day he got out. It is a miracle that he walked up to these two women who were in rescue,” said Cindy, adding that PAWSitively Cats called her and Jeff directly. She described the happy occasion as a “beautiful story” saying that reuniting with Sam, whom they had for seven years before he disappeared, was “surreal.”“This story just can’t underestimate the power of a microchip,” she said. “We are so grateful for everyone that was involved.”Sam the cat is now 12 years old and weighs 21 pounds. The rescue organization documented his entire journey on their Facebook page. PAWSitively Cats wrote that someone had picked up Sam and failed to look for his home when he first disappeared from the Hall residence.Before contacting Sam's family, the organization received a message that a microchipped cat had been found in Brinkley, Arkansas. In the meantime, Sam received the royal treatment at the Jacksonville Animal Hospital in Little Rock. The pet transport crew, Alone 2 Home once again assisted with Sam’s travels and brought him to El Paso, where the shelter’s director met up with them to bring Sam back to PAWSitively Cats shelter.  The feline’s family departed from Nevada and traveled to Tuscon, to finally get their beloved feline back.“Once again, we will do everything possible to be sure our cats are safe and can get back home if that is what is best for them,” the rescue posted on Facebook. “They are safe for life with us, one way or another, as long as PAWSitively Cats can continue. You make that possible by donating and sharing our cats’ stories. It really does take a whole community to save lives,” the post added.The Alone 2 Home transport crew also posted photos of Sam and provided additional updates to the shelter, before PAWSitively Cats updated their followers on Sam’s safe return home. “Sam was joyfully reunited with his family this morning,” the shelter later wrote in a post. “They are on their way home to Nevada now, where Sam will join the rest of the family: cats, dogs, and human sisters.” While talking to KARK, Cindy noted that having their cat home makes their family feel complete once again. No one knows how Sam ended up in Arkansas or for how long he had been there. It would be interesting to hear everything Sam went through during the five years he was away from his family. If only cats could talk!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Puppy Blues is a Real Thing – Just Like Baby Blues, Study Shows

There is no doubt that puppies are super cute. When you first bring a tiny little bundle of fur into your home, it is a cause of great joy. But sometimes, life can change in many ways as you care for your new pet. A latest scientific study published in Mental Health Research reveals that almost half of all dog owners can experience something reminiscent of the famous “baby blues” – only related to puppies instead of babies.Many owners will experience anxiety, frustration, or weariness during those first steps of their pet’s puppyhood. The study that was conducted at the University of Helsinki confirmed that owners will experience a short-term drop in mood, and great melancholy, while their pet is a puppy - something that is akin to the famous postnatal “baby blues”. This is because caring for a puppy gives rise to a variety of worries and fears, anxiety and frustration, and difficulty bonding."The study found that these so-called 'puppy blues' manifest in three ways: anxiety, frustration, and weariness. These often occur concurrently, but in some cases, one or two of the three may be particularly prominent," said psychologist and doctoral researcher Aada Ståhl.When a puppy owner is anxious, their thoughts “are colored by concerns” about the wellbeing of their pet, and how they are developing. They can also be worried that they are not adequately looking after the fragile little being. If something doesn’t pan out, the owner would often blame themselves for it. What is more, as a result of the strain and the challenges of caring for a puppy, a puppy owner might become frustrated even further. In the initial stages, they might discover that it is difficult to build an emotional bond with the puppy, which would only make everything much more difficult.All of this makes puppyhood exhausting and very taxing mentally and physically. Owners could experience a lack of sleep and increased tiredness and anxiety."Just under half of owners report having had significant negative experiences during their dog's puppyhood phase, with only about a tenth reporting the most severe levels of strain. This is in line with the prevalence of postnatal depression. However, the negative feelings fade relatively quickly," says Professor Hannes Lohi.But the study now offers a key insight – the more time that passed since puppyhood, the more positively owners remembered it. This means that the negative emotional content of these memories “fades” as time passes. All these results were collected by examining the experiences of over 100 different dog owners, all of whom experienced emotional strain after bringing a puppy home. The survey was specifically developed to measure “puppy blues”. It collected specific responses from over 2,000 dog owners, ensuring the reliability of the survey."Capturing the phenomenon in a measurable form is important if we are to better understand its characteristics, prevalence, and duration. This will also allow us to improve understanding of the factors that may predispose owners to or protect them from the 'puppy blues,' which will help us to develop prevention and support measures," added Ståhl.The study offers a crucial new glimpse into the relationship between a pet and an owner. Exploring the puppy blues phenomenon will help raise awareness and prepare future owners for the challenges of puppyhood – as there are quite a few that come together with all that cuteness.

Can a Parrot Get Dehydrated?

The summer months are in full swing, and the temperatures are soaring high. Due to this, pet owners across the world are concerned about their furry and feathery friends and the possible adverse effects extreme weather could have on them. A group especially vulnerable to heat is parrots, who are usually small and don’t tolerate high temperatures. Like all other pets, they too need to have plenty of fresh, cool water available at all times, as it is essential for maintaining their overall health and also aids digestion and regulates body temperature. But how much water does your avian pet really need in the summer? Can parrots get dehydrated and can you prevent it? Here is what you need to know.Can a Parrot Get Dehydrated?Like all living creatures, parrots also require water, and without enough of it, they can certainly become dehydrated. Dehydration occurs when a parrot loses more water than it consumes, which leads to an imbalance in their body’s water levels. There are many reasons why this can happen. Most often it is insufficient water intake, excessive heat, sickness, or improper diet. To calculate how much water a parrot needs, you need to consider their size and weight – a majestic Moluccan Cockatoo will certainly need more water than a cute little Budgie. A good rule of thumb is to ensure they get at least 5% of their body weight in water each day.Dehydration in parrots can have serious health consequences, including kidney function, digestion, and overall vitality. That is why it is important to always provide them with a fresh source of water and monitor for signs of dehydration.Signs of Dehydration in ParrotsAll parrot owners need to know how to spot the symptoms of dehydration. This can be crucial for their health and allow you quick intervention. Some of the common signs are:#1 Sunken Eyes:When dehydrated, a parrot’s eyes can appear sunken or dull. This is one of the more noticeable signs and it needs to be addressed immediately.#2 Dry Skin and Beak:A dehydrated parrot can have dry or flaky skin and a dry beak. The skin can also lose its elasticity, and the beak may appear brittle.#3 Lethargy:When dehydrated, parrots can become lethargic or less active than usual. They might not show any interest in playing or interacting with their environment in the usual way.#4 Reduced appetite:A lack of water intake can lead to loss of appetite, as dehydration can cause digestive issues and general discomfort. #5 Rapid breathing:In an attempt to regulate their body temperature, dehydrated parrots may pant or breathe at a rapid pace.#6 Sticky mucous membranes:The inside of the parrot’s mouth may appear sticky or dry due to a lack of moisture.#7 Weight loss:Over time, dehydration can lead to noticeable weight loss, as the parrot’s body struggles to maintain its normal functions.Preventing and Treating Dehydration in ParrotsOf course, it is equally important to understand what can cause dehydration in parrots in the first place. This can also help you to prevent it from occurring. The number one cause is inadequate water supply. If a parrot’s water source is not easily accessible or is often empty, they may not consume enough water. Make sure that their waterer is always clean, easy to use, and made from parrot-safe materials.

Self-Harming in Pets - What Triggers It?

Depression, anxiety, and an inability to cope may cause unusual behaviors in your pet.

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