Missing Cat Found After 10 Years -- And a Custody Battle Ensues

Lisa Selvaggio
by Lisa Selvaggio
Published:  September 5th, 2023

Last week, we told you about a cat who was reunited with his owner after 8 years. And now we have a story that’s even more incredible: a 14-year-old kitty who went missing a decade ago has been found very far from home, in a different state.

SynthEx/Shutterstock

A Cat from Kansas Found in North Carolina


Carol Holmes only had Bob for a mere four months before he went missing. He used to spend time in her yard and neighborhood with her other two cats. When he didn’t come home like he normally would, she searched everywhere but never found him.


Fast-forward to 2023. Carol was missing her father on August 19, which would’ve been his 94th birthday. But that was also the day that she got the best surprise when she was told via email that her cat, Bob (who was named after her dad), had been found after 10 years.


As if that wasn’t astonishing enough, Bob wasn’t anywhere near Wichita, Kansas, where Carol resides. In fact, he wasn’t even in Kansas. He was 1,200 miles away in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina.


Carol was both stunned and thrilled to learn that her cat was alive and well, and it’s all thanks to someone finding him, taking him to 5-Points Animal Hospital, and scanning him for a microchip. She doesn’t know how Bob got to North Carolina, and wishes he could tell her about everything that happened to him over the last decade.


A Fundraiser to Bring Bob the Cat Home


Getting Bob home wouldn’t be simple, as Carol needed to raise funds to ensure he would receive necessary veterinary care and an interstate travel certificate. With the help of volunteers at Imagine Home, she sorted through all of the details so Bob could have everything he needed, including travel supplies, to get home safely.


Carol set up a GoFundMe to ask for donations. As of this writing, a total of $2,200 was raised. On September 2, she posted an update that Bob was receiving the care he needed to fly to Kansas. She also said she plans on donating excess funds to animal rescues, and she’ll keep everyone updated with photos as Bob travels home.  


A Fight for Custody  


Unfortunately, the story doesn’t end there. On September 5, news broke that there’s a custody battle for Bob.


Alex Streight claims that she is Bob’s rightful owner, saying that she took him in in 2014 when she was living in Wichita and found him in poor condition. She fed him, looked for his owner, and took him to the vet. When she decided to keep him, she named him Maui. And, when she moved to Fuquay-Varina, he went with her. Then, on August 19, her neighbor took Maui to the veterinarian because he was roaming. At the vet’s office, the cat’s microchip was scanned, indicating that Carol is his owner.


As for the microchip, Streight says she didn’t know about it, no veterinarian ever scanned for one, and she never got one for Maui. Although she has photos, videos, and veterinary records for a kitty that looks like Bob, it isn’t enough to prove that Maui and Bob are the same pet.


Bob was taken to the Wake County Animal Control Center, and animal control investigators are working on figuring out who the true owner is so they can ensure he goes to the right home.  

WOW
Lisa Selvaggio
Lisa Selvaggio

Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.

More by Lisa Selvaggio

Pets Take Center Stage When Its Time to Vote
Pets Take Center Stage When Its Time to Vote
View Article
Next
Related articles
Guide Dog Trigger Retires After Fathering Over 300 Puppies

A nine-year-old golden retriever, nicknamed The Dogfather, is going to a well-earned retirement after fathering a grand total of 323 puppies. Trigger has spent his years being the star stud dog of Guide Dogs. This charity organization specializes in breeding and training guide dogs for people with visual impairment in the United Kingdom. Since the beginning of his stud career in December 2016, Trigger has fathered 39 litters, including a record-breaking litter with 16 puppies in 2021. According to Guide Dogs, 294 of Trigger’s puppies have been bred by the charity itself, and an additional 29 puppies by other assistance dog charities and guide dog schools, bringing his grand total to 323 puppies.The Dogfather’s final litter consisted of six puppies, including five daughters named Rita, Jenny, Hermione, Indy, and Sandy, and a son, named Billy. The last of Trigger's offspring are eight weeks old and about to start their guide dog training and will be living with volunteer puppy raisers for the next year. “Trigger’s legacy can be seen in the independence and confidence his progeny has brought to the lives of blind and partially sighted people all over Britain,” shared Guide Dogs in a news release. The Dogfather’s puppies have been affectionately nicknamed Triglets by guide dog owners and volunteers. These pups have been guiding visually impaired and partially sighted individuals across the United Kingdom, including London, Cardiff, Glasgow, and even the Isle of Wright. Two of Trigger’s litters have been bred abroad at guide dog organizations in France and the Netherlands, creating guide dog partnerships in both countries. “Trigger’s wonderful, gentle nature and excellent health have made him the perfect asset to our breeding program. We can’t overstate the impact that Trigger has in helping us to provide so many guide dogs for people with sight loss,” said Janine Dixon, Head of Breeding Operations at Guide Dogs. Dixon added the charity hopes that Billy, Trigger’s son, will continue his father’s legacy by joining the breeding program in a few years.“In the meantime, nine of his daughters, as well, as his half-French son Pierre, are helping us to bring forward a new generation of dogs with Trigger’s fantastic genes,” shared Guide Dogs.When it comes to Trigger’s future, he will spend his well-earned retirement in Branbury with his Breeding Dog Volunteer Sarah Bryne, who has been looking after him for the past seven years and will now officially adopt him. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Dog Who Went Through Three Failed Adoptions Finds A Forever Home

For Muddy Paws Rescue dog Sadie, the fourth time was the charm. After enduring three failed adoptions, the four-year-old pooch was adopted by her foster family.Sadie arrived from Kentucky at Muddy Paws Rescue, a foster-based New York City rescue in 2021. While the rescue searched for a loving family, Sadie was placed with several fosters but spent the most time with the GenilChin family. After helping the canine cope with three failed adoptions, the GenilChins made sure the fourth one stuck. Lizyle GenilChin told the People that she first met Sadie in 2021 when she and her husband Edmond went to pick up Sadie from another foster whose home was too lively for the dog’s comfort. “She was so scared. She was in her crate because that’s her safe space. When they tried to get her out, she peed. Eventually, we got her in the car,” said Lizyle adding, “She wasn’t walking at that point. She was too scared.”The couple brought Sadie home and introduced her to their two daughters and their dog Buko. The entire family, but especially Buko and Lizyle, worked daily to help Sadie overcome her fears. The family focused on getting their new foster dog comfortable with a leash and ensured she got plenty of playtime, which their dog Buko provided. “She was scared of the leash. As soon as I took it out she would go into her crate or cower. So we spent time in our backyard. She loved the backyard,” said Lizyle. With time, a lot of patience, and treats, Lizyle got Sadie comfortable wearing a leash. In 2022, Sadie was adopted for the first time. Unfortunately, the woman and her son weren’t happy with the pooch and returned her to foster care a week later. The GenilChins decided to keep Sadie occupied with hikes, playtime, and bonding to help her cope with the rejection.In January 2023, Saidy got a second chance at a forever home and was adopted again. The dog’s new adopters loved her and lived in a great location. Alas, the new owners realized they couldn’t care for Sadie like they thought and returned the pooch to Muddy Paws three months later. Once more, Sadie was placed with the GenilChin family. The pooch stayed with her foster family from April to October and they continued to train her. In October, Sadie was adopted for the third time, but once again the new owners realized they couldn’t care for the pooch.Through no fault of her own, Sadie ended up with her foster family for the fourth time. This time around the GenilChins decided to make Sadie an official member of their family and adopt her. “Every time from the beginning, we’re always like ‘Should we? Should we? Should we?’, said Lizyle. However, the family didn’t adopt Sadie because of their dog Buko.“We had our dog, and we wanted to keep fostering, If we kept her, I don’t think I could have handled three dogs.”But, Buko diet while Sadie was at her third home. Buko’s passing allowed the family to adopt Sadie and continue fostering with Muddy Paws. Sadie has quickly found her place with her adopted family and has come a long way from the scared dog GenilChins first brought into their home.“She has done a 720, this dog,” said Lizyle. “For a dog that was so scared of a leash, she loves to go out now, loves it.” Sadie also enjoys spending time in the backyard, sniffing out new smells, and practicing obedience commands. Sadie’s family hopes their experience will inspire others to foster rescue animals. “We are a family of four. The kids are scheduled up, we’re working parents. It was nice to bring another energy into the house that broke up the routine and the monotony. It added another dimension to our togetherness, which was really nice. That’s what’s close to my heart about fostering.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can Counterconditioning Help My Reactive Dog?

Caring for and managing a reactive dog can be incredibly frustrating. Your dog may be a sweet angel at home, but they suddenly evolve into a barking, growling, lunging whirlwind when out in public.Luckily, there is hope!Overcoming reactivity is a process that will not happen overnight. However, dog trainers and behaviorists have seen great success with positive reinforcement techniques like counterconditioning.This article will explore how counterconditioning works, the steps involved in the process, realistic timelines and expectations, and tips for a successful journey toward a calmer, more confident dog. Get started today!What is Counterconditioning for Dogs?Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is counterconditioning, and why is it recommended for managing and treating reactive dogs?Counterconditioning is a behavioral modification technique that focuses on changing your dog’s emotional response to a specific stimulus.For example, some dogs feel fear and anxiety at the sight of another dog. This could be due to a lack of socialization, meaning they weren’t taught that other dogs can be friendly. It could also be a reaction to a past trauma, like having been attacked by another dog. In these situations, counterconditioning can be used to teach your dog that the sight of another dog leads to a positive experience.Why is this an effective approach for addressing reactivity? Reactivity, by definition, is an overreaction to a trigger. While this is often associated with fear or anxiety, some reactive dogs become overly excited. An overexcited dog may jump all over strangers not because they are trying to cause harm but because they are so excited to see them that they can’t control their response.If you have identified your dog’s triggers, you can use this training approach to teach them to respond in a new (and better) way.What Can Counterconditioning Be Used to Treat?Reactivity isn’t the only behavioral condition that can be treated with counterconditioning. This technique can be used to address a wide spectrum of situations in which a pet may be responding to a situation or trigger in an unwanted way.Some situations where it is commonly recommended include helping dogs overcome specific fears or phobias as well as managing or overcoming behaviors related to obsessive-compulsive disorder.Common fears that may be addressed with counterconditioning include: Fear of car ridesAnxiety when visiting the vetNoises (fireworks, thunder)Babies (especially the sound of crying)Strangers or other dogs in publicAllowing guests to enter their homePhysical triggers like cars or bicyclesDogs who dislike grooming, like brushing or having their nails trimmedIf you believe this approach may be helpful in your dog’s unique situation, we recommend speaking with a behaviorist.You can find professionals in your area by browsing the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists website list or the Animal Behavior Consultants Directory by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.

Dog Nurturing Cherry Tomato Goes Viral on TikTok

Juicy, ripe treat brings out the maternal side of this little dog.

Interacting with Dogs Affects Your Brain, Mood, and Focus

New research from South Korea shows what happens in a person’s brain when they interact with a dog.

Are Mutts Healthier than Purebreds? New Study Says NO!

Are mixed-breed dogs really healthier? A new study of more than 27,000 companion dogs discovered that mutts are just as likely to experience health issues as their purebred counterparts. It turns out that a smaller gene pool doesn’t make purebred dogs more prone to common doggy ailments when compared to mixed-breed dogs. The study led by researchers from the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences found that while certain purebreds are prone to specific health problems, both purebreds and mixed-breeds are equal in terms of the overall frequency of health condition diagnoses. “There are several well-known diseases that frequently occur in specific dog breeds,” explained Dr. Kate Creevy, chief veterinary officer of the Dog Aging Project and a professor in the VMBS’ Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences. “This has helped perpetuate the misconception that all purebred dogs are more prone to diseases, but that is not the case.”The study, which surveyed a total of 27,541 dogs, identified 25 breeds that made up around 60% of the purebred dog population within the Dog Aging Project. Those breeds include Labrador retriever, golden retriever, German shepherd, poodle, Australian shepherd, dachshund, border collie, Chihuahua, beagle, Pembroke Welsh corgi, boxer, shih tzu, miniature schnauzer, pug, Havanese, cavalier King Charles spaniel, Great Dane, greyhound, Boston terrier, Siberian husky, Shetland sheepdog, English springer spaniel, Australian cattle dog, and Doberman pinscher. Scientists found that within these 25 breeds, 53 medical conditions make up the top owner-reported medical issues. “The medical conditions reported by owners varied considerably,” said Creevy. “However, some conditions appeared frequently in the top 10 reported health conditions by breed.”The 10 health conditions most reported for purebred dogs include dental calculus (hardened plaque), dog bites, extracted teeth, giardia, osteoarthritis, seasonal allergies, ear infections, heart murmur, fractured teeth, and cataracts. For mixed-breed dogs, the top 10 conditions were nearly the same, with cataracts and heart murmur being replaced with torn/broken toenails and chocolate toxicity. Some maladies, such as dental calculus and osteoarthritis appeared roughly the same in purebreds and mutts. However, some conditions were more commonly seen in one than the other. For example, purebreds had more extracted teeth, and dog bites, while mixed-breeds had more ear infections. Out of 53 owner-reported medical conditions, 26 didn’t differ significantly between purebred and mixed-breed dogs. What’s more interesting is that 22.3% of owners of purebred dogs reported their canine companions having no health issues, compared to 20.7% of mixed-breed owners, meaning that purebred dogs were healthier than mixed-breed dogs. The most important finding of this study is that dog breed is just one aspect of pet health to think about when creating a dog care plan, or researching what kind of dog to adopt. “People should consider many factors when choosing a dog, including environment, lifestyle, social interactions and physical activity that will be available to the dog,” said Creevy. “Planning for both preventative care and medical care as the dog ages is also prudent. Dog owners should also talk with their primary care veterinarians about the kinds of medical problems to which their new dog might be particularly prone based on breed, size, sex, etc.” Researchers think that the main reason people believe mixed-breed dogs are healthier than purebreds is because certain breeds of dogs suffer from well-known health problems. For example, German shepherds and Labrador retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia, poodles are more likely to get glaucoma, and Great Danes are prone to bloat. The fact that some purebreds are susceptible to breed-specific diseases, while mixed-breeds aren’t has contributed to the myth that purebred dogs are more likely to get sick than their mixed-breed counterparts. We now know that’s not the case thanks to this new study. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

When To Say Goodbye To Your Dog? A New Survey Sheds Some Light

Deciding when it's the time to say goodbye to a beloved canine companion is the toughest decision you’ll have to make. Even when the pooch in question is sick or old, it’s never easy to choose to euthanize a furry friend. The question for many dog owners remains - how do you know when it’s time to say goodbye?Difficult questions like this one spurred the members of the Dog Aging Project to survey 2.570 dog owners about the details of their companion dog’s death. Researchers asked the owners to list the dog’s cause of death, whether euthanasia was involved, the reason why euthanasia may have been chosen, the dog’s age, the quality of life the dog had before death, and what medical symptoms they exhibited. The survey’s findings were published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. The Dog Aging Project is a collaborative, research-driven project that accepts dogs from various backgrounds to study the effects of aging. The idea behind this project is to get a better insight into what contributes to a long and healthy dog lifespan. Data showed that over 85% of owners whose dogs had died reported choosing euthanasia. Almost half of those owners stated they chose to euthanize their dog to relieve their pet’s suffering. More than half of all respondents listed disease or illness as the cause of their dog’s death.“What this survey shows is that all dog owners struggle with deciding when it’s time to say goodbye, and you’re not alone if you’re facing this decision,” said Dr. Kellyn McNulty, an internal medicine resident in the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, who worked on the study. “As veterinarians, we encourage people to consider not just the ‘lifespan’ of a companion animal, but also the ‘health span’  - the portion of your dog’s life when they’re in good health,” she added. “Advocating for your pet is about more than helping them live longer - it’s also about making sure that the time they have here on Earth is a good time.”The interesting thing about this survey is that it has allowed researchers to learn that euthanasia isn’t something that mainly affects older dogs. Many diseases and conditions can affect younger dogs, lowering their quality of life and leading owners to wonder whether it might be time to say goodbye to their companions sooner rather than later. “It’s not a decision that anyone wants to have to make, but the survey showed us that many pet owners face these questions regardless of how old is their dog,” said McNulty.Age may become a more significant factor in determining the quality of a dog’s life as veterinary medicine continues to improve at treating and managing chronic conditions in dogs. One thing dog owners can do is be on the lookout for the signs of aging and talk with their vet to determine whether age or chronic illness is affecting their dog’s quality of life.“If your dog is well-trained and potty-trained and begins soiling the house that’s a possible sign. Others include restlessness at night, new onset anxiety and fears, and arthritic issues.”One thing every dog owner needs to remember - you are not alone when it comes to deciding to say goodbye to your pooch. In addition to family and friends you can turn to, there are many dog owners out there facing the same tough decision. Additionally, your veterinarian can always provide expert advice based on your dog’s condition and answer all of your questions.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Cat Saved from Hot Car Now Modeling for Target

It was a heartbreaking discovery for animal lovers in June 2002 when 47 cats were rescued from extreme heat in a vehicle parked at an eastern Minnesota rest stop. The cats were medically assessed, cared for, and adopted out to loving families. Unfortunately, during the rescue, one of the cats ran off, leading to a month-long search. A cat matching the missing kitty’s description was found sitting on a doorstop in the area and brought to Tuff Start Rescue by a good Samaritan. The cat was in rough shape after a sweltering heat and a month on the run. “When he got to us, his jaw was severely fractured, his temperature wouldn’t read, he had a severe maggot infestation in his mouth, his ears, everywhere,” described Dr. Nicole Perreault, a veterinarian, and Tuff Start Rescue’s founder and president. “It was like a visceral pain when I looked at him, and wondered, OK, what do we do here? What’s the most humane [thing to do?] but then he lifted his head and looked at me, and I thought, ‘OK, you have survived all this time to make it to this clinic and this rescue.’ So I was like, we’re gonna give this a shot.” The cat, named Hercules, had a long road to recovery, including specialized foods, around-the-clock medications, and jaw surgeries to stabilize his jaw. Little did anyone know that this second chance was only the start of an impressive story… Throughout his recovery, Hercules was under the care of his foster mom, Jill LeBrun. Before long, it was clear that life with LeBrun wasn’t just a temporary stop in his journey. Accepting that it was meant to be, LeBrun officially adopted Hercules and happily welcomed him into her family. Now ten years old, Hercules continues to thrive in LeBrun’s care. He loves bird watching, nibbling his favorite kitty treats, and being loved on by anyone and everyone. He has also started a new chapter in his life. After discovering a local animal talent agency was searching for cats “with unique faces” for upcoming work, LeBrun submitted a photo of Hercules for consideration. His adorable little face and tongue, always hanging out, quickly captured hearts, and he was called in for a photoshoot. Shortly after the photoshoot, she was shopping at Target when she was met with a heartwarming surprise – a familiar face staring back from the store shelves. “I got to the cat litter aisle, and all of a sudden, the whole aisle was like, Hercules’ face on all the rows of cat litter pails,” LeBrun described. “There was another woman in the aisle looking for products, and I had to stop myself from looking over at her and being like, ‘That’s my cat!’” She confessed to being a proud cat mom, taking pictures of the products before straightening up all the pails to best showcase her adorable little model. Why is LeBrun so excited to share Hercules’ story? She hopes his tale of recovery and success can help encourage others to consider fostering or adopting an animal in need -even if they look a little “different.” You never know when you’ll find your new best friend (or the next furry model).Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Two Pet Food Recalls Spark Fear of Bacterial Infections

This week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued two separate pet food recalls over fears of bacterial contamination that could cause health issues in pets and, in some cases, death.The first recall notice involves pet food for cats and dogs, and the second notice involves pet food for hedgehogs.A popular online pet food company, Viva Raw LLC of Hillsborough, North Carolina, has voluntarily recalled five of its cat and dog foods over the fears that the products may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. According to an announcement on the FDA website, the recalled products include Viva Turkey for Dogs Ground, Viva Turkey for Dogs Chunked, Viva Turkey for Cats, Viva Pure Turkey, and Viva Beef & Turkey for Puppies. All of the recalled products were manufactured under Lot 21244. The products involved in the recall were packed in clear packaging and shipped as frozen, one-pound bricks. The expiration date wasn’t listed on any of the packaging. The recalled cat and dog food was distributed to customers in all 50 states, including the Columbia district. Listeria was discovered in the food after the FDA conducted sample testing on Viva Turkey for Dogs. All pet food products from the same lot should have been destroyed, but the company claims some items were ‘inadvertently released from the warehouse’ to customers. According to the FDA press release: “Viva Raw is notifying all customers who were shipped any Turkey or Beef & Turkey for Puppies products between May 16th and June 28th, 2024. No illnesses related to this lot have been reported to date.”  Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria that can cause Listeriosis in humans. Listeriosis is a serious infection that causes vomiting, fever, and diarrhea, among other symptoms. Pregnant women, young children, and old and sick people are at most risk of developing severe complications. In cats and dogs, this bacteria can cause diarrhea, anorexia, and fever. Some animals can also experience depression, miscarriage, and death.In addition to becoming sick, pets who consume the contaminated food can also become carriers, spreading listeria through their saliva and feces and infecting people and animals they come in contact with.In its notice, the FDA advises owners not to feed these contaminated products to pets. Also, you shouldn’t touch these products with your bare hands. Use gloves or paper towels to dump the product in a sealed bag and then disinfect all the surfaces that have come into contact with it.The second recall involves various lots of Sun Seed Vita Prima Hedgehog Food and Vitakraft Vita Smart Hedgehog Food. The Vitakraft Sun Seed Inc. of Wisconsin, Ohio, has voluntarily recalled some lots of various hedgehog foods, as they may be contaminated with Salmonella.According to the notice, the recalled products were distributed in many states, including Arizona, California, Georgia, Florida, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Massachusetts, Missouri, Minnesota, Nevada, North Carolina, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin.Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause serious infections in humans and animals. In humans, the most common symptoms of Salmonella are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramping. However, this bacteria can cause even more serious issues in people, including arthritis, endocarditis, arterial infections, and more. Pets suffering from a Salmonella infection can experience fever, diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, decreased appetite, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Some infected animals don’t exhibit any symptoms, but can be carriers of Salmonella and spread it to other people and pets. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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

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

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 Parrots Overheat? Keeping Your Pet Bird Cool in the Summer

With the summer temperatures steadily soaring, all pet owners need to be extra attentive about the weather and always make sure their little friends are not overheating. Parrots, like all birds, are sensitive to changes in temperature. While they are naturally adapted to warm climates, excessive heat can pose serious health risks. Understanding how to keep your pet parrot cool during the hot summer months is crucial for their well-being.How To Keep Your Pet Bird Cool in the SummerIt is important to know that parrots regulate their body temperature through their respiratory system. They do not sweat like humans; instead, they pant to release heat. Overheating, or hyperthermia, occurs when a parrot's body temperature rises above the normal range, which can lead to serious health issues such as heatstroke. Signs of overheating in parrots include rapid panting, holding their wings away from their body, lethargy, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness.Ensuring that your parrot’s living environment is cool and comfortable is the first step in preventing overheating. Here are some tips to achieve this without much effort:Place the parrot’s cage in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Avoid areas that can get excessively warm, such as near windows or kitchens.Use fans or air conditioning to maintain a cool temperature. However, make sure the airflow is indirect to avoid creating a draft, which can be harmful to parrots. Always provide fresh cool water for your parrot. Consider adding ice cubes to the water bowl to keep it cooler for longer periods.

Lyft is Making it Easier Than Ever to Travel With Pets!

Great news! Lyft, the popular ride-sharing app, has now introduced a new feature that’s sure to create excitement for pet parents everywhere: Pet Rides! This feature lets pet parents connect with pet-friendly drivers, guaranteeing your companion can join you on your adventures. Pet Rides officially launched on National Dog Day – celebrating the role dogs (and other pets) play in our lives. The convenient feature provides more flexibility for pet parents on the go.To use the feature, you will need to select “Pet Ride” when searching for ride availability. This will ensure that your options exclusively include drivers who have opted to allow pet travelers in their vehicles. The additional $4 (plus tax) fee for the Pet Ride will be factored into the upfront price shown in the app. However, an extra cleaning fee may be charged if your pet leaves an excessive mess or damages the vehicle during the trip.Of course, this is for companion pets, not service animals. Drivers are still required to accommodate service animals, per the Americans with Disabilities Act.The Pet Ride feature allows for one pet per pet-friendly ride, with no restrictions related to breed or size. Additional pets may be permitted on the ride at the driver’s discretion, but it is not guaranteed. Pet rides are currently only available in the United States.This feature is similar to the Uber Pet feature offered by the most popular competitor, Uber.“At Lyft, we believe that everyone belongs, and that includes our four-legged family members,” stated Audrey Liu, the Executive Vice President and Head of Rider and Community Safety at Lyft. When asked about the feature, she explained that it will make it “easier than ever for pet owners to get where they need to go with their pets.”While there are no specific rules or requirements in terms of how a pet can travel in the vehicle, pet parents are asked to be respectful of the driver and other riders by keeping their pet in a carrier, on a blanket to keep any mess contained (like muddy paws or shed fur), or seated safely at your feet while the vehicle is in motion. If a dog does create an unsafe situation, serving as a distraction and putting the driver and any passengers in the vehicle at risk, the ride may be canceled.Traveling with pets can be stressful, especially if this is your first time. From trying to find pet-friendly accommodations to determining whether public transit options will even allow your pet to ride, a fun adventure can quickly become frustrating and overwhelming.By offering a pet-friendly ride option, Lyft is the latest company to demonstrate its commitment to creating options for pet-friendly travelers. But this isn’t the first time that Lyft has stepped up to create a safe and accommodating solution for a particular population among the app’s users. For example, Women+ Connect allows females and non-binary riders to request a female or non-binary driver, addressing safety concerns they may experience when getting into a vehicle with a stranger. As a pet-friendly traveler myself, I’m excited to see what companies in the travel industry will be the next to revolutionize travel as we know it with our furry (feathered, scaly, etc.) friends in mind!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter   here.

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.

Canadian City Takes a Different Approach to Dangerous Dogs

New rules and an on-line tracking system help residents feel safe.

How Much Playtime Does My Cat Need?

Sure, cats tend to spend a lot of their day seemingly lazing about, basking in the sun, meticulously cleaning themselves, and snoozing away. However, that doesn’t mean that cats are not active animals that need daily exercise – they have an instinct to hunt, explore, and engage in different activities that stimulate their minds and bodies. Without adequate mental and physical stimulation, cats can become bored, stressed, and even develop behavioral issues. This is why playtime is not “just” a matter of playing for felines. It meets their most basic needs and it's an essential component of their overall well-being.What Are the Benefits of Playtime for Cats?Engaging your cat in interactive play stimulates their cognitive abilities, keeping their minds sharp and active. Activities like chasing toys, solving puzzles, or hunting for treats mimic their natural hunting instincts, providing mental enrichment. Enrichment is crucial to prevent destructive behaviors, aggression, and other behavioral issues that stem from boredom and lack of mental stimulation. In addition to keeping your kitty’s mind sharp, playtime will keep them fit as a fiddle and in their top form. Regular play sessions help cats balance extra energy, maintain a healthy weight, and prevent obesity-related health issues. It also promotes muscle tone, flexibility, and overall physical fitness, reducing the risk of joint problems as they age.Last but not least, interactive play presents a unique bonding opportunity. Playing together with your cat will strengthen your relationship, fostering trust and affection. It's a chance to spend quality time together and will provide your cat with a sense of security and happiness.How Much Playtime Does My Cat Need?The importance of your cat having regular playtime is indisputable, but how much playtime do they need? Well, as it usually goes with these things, the answer will largely depend on your pet’s specific traits, such as their age, breed, and health status. However, for most cats, that “magic” number ends up being between 20 to 30 minutes of playtime each day. This could be your starting point to determine the right amount of play for your pet, just tailor it to their needs – for instance, younger cats and kittens will need longer and more frequent play sessions to burn off excess energy and engage their curious minds. How To Make Playtime Engaging for Your CatAs intelligent and sometimes finicky animals, cats can be a bit hard to please. A new toy might bore them in a matter of hours, or they might prefer scratching your couch rather than the new cat tree you bought them – but if you rely on the following tricks, it’s much likelier that your kitty will enjoy playtime.#1 Rotate ToysKeep your cat's interest piqued by rotating their toys regularly. Introduce new toys periodically to prevent boredom and stimulate their curiosity, but don’t overdo it – bringing home new toys too often will ensure they get bored of each one too quickly. #2 Variety is KeyExperiment with different types of toys, such as wand toys, laser pointers, puzzle feeders, and interactive play circuits. Cats have unique preferences, so observe what activities your cat enjoys most and tailor playtime accordingly. Usually, a safe bet is going for a catnip-filled toy such as the well-loved  Yeowww! Catnip Yellow Banana Cat Toy. Popular for its shape that makes it perfect for cats to grab onto and forcefully scratch with all fours, this toy will keep your kitty engaged thanks to the organic catnip stuffing that fills this banana-shaped toy to the brim.

Mexico's President Says Sí to Caring for National Palace's Feral Cats

Living Fixed Asset designation provides felines with care and shelter for life.

Dog Weddings Are The Latest Trend in China – And It’s Adorable

A lavish tiered cake, a dreamy outdoor venue, white lace, and flowing gowns – it is a sure recipe for a dream wedding. But don’t be surprised to hear that it was arranged for a pair of Golden Retrievers, Bree and Bond. In front of all their friends and family – both human and canine – they “tied the knot” and became newlyweds.This happened in China, where pet weddings are on the rise – a stark contrast to the fast-declining marriage and birth rates of the populace in China. The latest trend of splurging on pet weddings is steadily rising in China as Reuters reports, especially in its urban centers. In fact, spending on dogs has increased by 3.2% in 2023, to a grand total of 279.3 billion yuan ($38.31 billion), a steep rise from just one year before. "People have weddings. Why can't dogs have weddings?" said Rye Ling for Reuters, owner of newlywed retriever Bree. He was emotional after escorting his female pet down the aisle, where she “exchanged vows promising to always share treats and play with her husband Bond”.Bree and Bond’s owners, Rye Ling and Gigi Chen, said to the news outlets that they are in no rush to get married themselves and that they have instead meticulously planned the wedding ceremony of their pets months ahead. They arranged for professional photography, wedding booklets, and a custom-made, 800-yuan (cca $110) wedding cake that even had Bree and Bond toppers!The owner of a Shanghai-based pet bakery, Yang Tao, said that she was initially surprised that someone ordered a lavish wedding cake for their pets."I think there will be more and more dog weddings," she said, adding that it was not the first time she catered for such ceremonies since opening in 2022. "We have already received an order for a few months from now ... and that's for a dog wedding."Rye Ling added that his hope was for the wedding ceremony to give Bree and Bond a “sense of ritual”. He added that he wanted only one child and that he also hopes to welcome puppies soon.

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