The US National Park Service is Being Sued Over Stray Cats

Angela Vuckovic
by Angela Vuckovic
Published:  April 2nd, 2024
Oxana Oliferovskaya/Shutterstock

The US National Park Service was sued by a non-profit organization due to its controversial plan to remove the famous stray cats of Puerto Rico, a historic district in the US territory. The lawsuit was filed by  Alley Cat Allies, a non-profit based in Maryland, and it comes four months after the radical announcement that left many in shock. The Federal agency revealed that it would contract an animal welfare organization to remove around 200 stray cats that live in Puerto Rico’s historic seaside fortress in Old San Juan. 


What the organization still hasn’t decided upon is whether the captured stray cats would be placed in foster homes, kept in shelters, adopted, or face a different fate. What is more, the federal agency did not reveal if a third-party organization has been hired yet. 


The National Park Service also added that it would hire a “removal agency” if the organization it contracted ultimately failed to remove the cats within a six-month period. 


The news caught many by surprise, as many locals – and tourists alike – loved the cats, and many considered them a delight and a local attraction. Alas, many considered the cats a nuisance too, as the National Park Service stated in a report in 2022 that the cat population in the city had grown out of proportions and that the smell of feces and urine in the area was becoming too strong.


The announcement of their plan roused many animal rights activists, who say that six months is not enough to remove such a great number of cats. They fear that, as a result, many cats would be killed. 


Ultimately, the Alley Cat Allies filed its lawsuit in an effort to ensure the best possible outcome for the felines in question. They requested additional environmental statements from the National Park Service, and asked that “a judge find its actions allegedly violate acts including the National Environmental Protection Act.” It remains to be seen what will be the fate of these kitties – but one can only hope they won’t be harmed in the process. 

WOW
Angela Vuckovic
Angela Vuckovic

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

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What is the Difference Between a Hamster and a Dwarf Hamster?

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How to Tell If a Dog Is Dehydrated?

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Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs?

Ah, peanut butter –who doesn’t love a smear of this sticky butter on their toast? Whether you top it with bananas or jelly or something else altogether, spread on bread, mix in oatmeal, or add to smoothies, you likely enjoy the nutty goodness of peanut butter at least a few times a week. But can you share PB with your dog? While this tasty spread is generally safe for dogs as they have no issue eating peanuts in the form of butter, it’s the other ingredients that may be in the PB you’re eating that could harm them. This is what you should know before giving your pet peanut butter – whether as an ingredient of something else or on its own.Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs? To give you a short and straightforward answer, yes, peanut butter is safe for dogs when it’s made only out of peanuts as the single ingredient. However, that’s not always the case with commercially made peanut butter. To tweak its consistency, shelf life, or even modify its flavor, companies can add a variety of different ingredients to their peanut butter products, so it’s crucial to read the label before giving your pet even just a lick of peanut butter – and it wouldn't hurt to do so before eating it yourself, either. The most dangerous ingredient (for dogs) that could be added to peanut butter is  xylitol, or birch sugar, as it is sometimes labeled. This sweetener is highly toxic to dogs as even small amounts of xylitol can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, and liver failure in dogs.Another thing that could be problematic about peanut butter for dogs is not a matter of a sneaky ingredient but the fact that it’s a high-fat food. If not given in moderation, peanut butter can largely contribute to obesity in dogs, and in turn, promote health issues such as  pancreatitis at worst and upset tummy at best. It is also important to note that some dogs may be allergic to peanuts, the same as is the case with us humans. If you are giving your pet peanut butter for the first time, monitor them for signs of allergic reactions, such as itching, redness, swelling, or gastrointestinal upset, and consult your veterinarian if concerns arise.Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs and How To Incorporate It In Your Dog’s DietIn addition to being yummy, peanut butter is also beneficial for dogs. It might be high in fat, but it is predominantly unsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health, joint function, and immune system function in dogs. It is also a rich source of plant-based protein and will support your pet's overall health when given in moderation. So how do you ensure you don’t overdo it with PB and that your pet reap only the benefits of this nutty spread? While an excellent reward to utilize when training with positive reinforcement methods, peanut butter should be given sparingly rather than every time your pooch does a good job. Use a small amount – a teaspoon will work well for the job. Alternatively, if your pet loves the taste of peanut butter but you’re trying to maintain their weight, opting for peanut butter-flavored treats is a perfect compromise. My dogs prefer crunchy treats and are big PB fans, so one of their favorites is  American Journey Peanut Butter Recipe Grain-Free Oven Baked Crunchy Biscuit Dog Treats.

How to Train a Cat to Wear a Collar

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

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What Are Symptoms of Heatstroke in Rabbits?

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What Are Appeasement Behaviors in Dogs?

There has been much discussion on social media recently about the importance of understanding your dog’s body language and recognizing a problem situation before it happens. For example, acknowledging when a dog is becoming frustrated and upset, leading to a potential bite.But what you may not know is that your dog uses many far more subtle behaviors to communicate that they are feeling anxious or uncomfortable.Understanding these cues is crucial for protecting your dog’s safety and well-being and building a solid bond. After all, we all want our dogs to know we are here to protect them from any dangers they face!Let’s examine these subtle behaviors, known as dog appeasement behaviors, in-depth. We will discuss the signals to watch out for, what your dog is trying to communicate, and the best response in these situations.What Are Dog Appeasement Behaviors?As mentioned, dog appeasement behaviors are subtle actions your dog takes to signal that they are feeling stressed, anxious, or uncomfortable. Many of these behaviors serve two purposes: communicating their feelings to those around them and acting as a self-soothing activity to try to calm themselves.Appeasement behaviors are an attempt to acknowledge a threat that they are encountering and signal that they have no desire for confrontation.Picture yourself out for a walk in your favorite local park with your dog when you come across another dog. If that dog demonstrates a dominant or aggressive posture, they may be non-verbally questioning your dog’s intentions in that space. To avoid conflict, your dog may use appeasement signals to tell this dog that they are just passing through and aren’t trying to start any trouble.From here, the situation can go one of two ways – either both dogs go their separate ways with a clear understanding that no conflict is needed, or (if the problem isn’t addressed) it continues to escalate into something potentially dangerous for all involved.As dog parents, we are responsible for learning what to look out for, understanding our dog’s attempt to communicate with us, and responding quickly to keep our best friends safe.Common Dog Appeasement Signals and BehaviorsThe first step in keeping our dogs safe is to learn how to understand their non-verbal communication.While it would be FAR easier if our dogs could speak with us in clear English (I'm not denying this), they use many different methods to “talk to” us. They rely on body language to tell us what they are thinking and feeling—using their ears, tails, body posture, eye contact, and other physical signals.Here are some of the more common appeasement signals to watch out for:Avoiding Eye ContactOne of the more widely recognized ways of communicating that you are challenging someone is to look them directly in the eyes. Therefore, it makes sense that a dog trying to avoid conflict would avoid eye contact entirely. Your dog may avert their gaze to the ground or appear to be looking around, their eyes moving to everything but the perceived risk.

Non-Profit Brings Together Veterans and Rescue Dogs

There are few tales as heartwarming as the magic of the human-animal bond shared by dogs and their people. This love and loyalty that inspires Arizona-based nonprofit, Soldiers Best Friend, to bring together combat veterans and local homeless dogs for their happily ever after.  The organization was founded by veterinarian John Burnham following the passing of his father in 2007. At this time, he realized he wanted to do something bigger to honor his father while using his personal and professional talents, and the rest, as they say, is history. Since its establishment in 2011, Soldiers Best Friend has remained unwavering in its commitment to its mission of 'touching 2 lives at once'. The organization pairs veterans with combat-related PTSD or traumatic brain injuries with dogs from local shelters. The veteran and dog train together, giving both a second chance at the quality of life they deserve while also allowing them to create the close bond that will strengthen their relationship moving forward. Not only do dogs find a forever home, helping to address the current pet overpopulation problem, but veterans are also provided with a unique and effective source of support free of charge. While John has stated that he will continue his mission until these service dogs are no longer needed, he also acknowledges that the time will likely never come—at least not in his lifetime. To date, Solder’s Best Friend has connected with and served over 400 veterans, an impressive feat. These dogs not only offer the veterans more independence at home, but they also make the greater world feel more accessible. Tiffany Batura, a retired Navy veteran who served for four years, shared her story. After retiring, Batura was faced with the incredible challenge of recovering from PTSD from her service. “I had not very many women on my boat,” she explained. “The military has changed a lot, but at the time, there was a lot of harassment.” When asked about Soldier’s Best Friend and her service dog, a lab named Deadly, she was happy to share how much the dog has made a difference in her life. “So far, I’ve noticed that I am more willing to go out in public. I’m not homebound all the time,” Batura stated. While that may not seem like a lot, it’s a life-changing difference for Batura and others who are faced with PTSD from their military experiences. In fact, according to the National Center for PTSD, approximately 7% of veterans will have PTSD. However, that rate is nearly double among female veterans, reaching a concerning 13%. If you’re interested in helping Solider’s Best Friend in their noble mission, you can show your support in several ways. Those based in Arizona can volunteer to help with various tasks, including administrative duties, building maintenance, fundraising events, and even fostering a dog. For those who live outside of Arizona or who have a busy schedule that prevents them from committing to volunteer work, the organization is an Arizona Qualifying Charitable Organization. Simply make your donations using QCO code 22497. Alternatively, they also have an Amazon Wish List with many items needed to continue their work. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

What Do I Do if My Cat Ingests Marijuana?

We’ve all seen the funny social media videos of pets “greening out” after ingesting some weed, but can marijuana be dangerous for your cat? While it’s typically not fatal, marijuana toxicity can create a stressful situation for both you and your feline friend. In some cases, it can also have severe consequences. This guide will share the essential information you need to know about cats and marijuana, including the common symptoms of marijuana toxicity in cats, understanding the potential risks, and, most importantly, knowing what steps to take if your cat has ingested something they shouldn’t. Plus, we’ll discuss cat-friendly CBD products and share tips for calming your cat safely and effectively. Let’s get started… Is Marijuana Bad for Cats? With the growing number of states legalizing marijuana, this is a question that we have been hearing more frequently. Is marijuana toxic for cats? Should you be concerned if you accidentally leave something out and your cat now appears to be high? The short answer is yes! Cats are particularly sensitive to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound in marijuana that is responsible for the psychoactive effects (the relaxed, euphoric feeling that you experience). Plus, their small size means it takes significantly less to affect them. In most cases, if caught and addressed quickly, your cat will fully recover from marijuana toxicity. However, it can lead to long-term and even life-threatening complications. How Are Cats Exposed to Marijuana? In nearly all cases of marijuana toxicity, the affected cat wasn’t given marijuana to ingest. Instead, they get into something they shouldn’t, leading to trouble. There are several ways your cat may be exposed. If you or your friends/family smoke, ensure your cat is safely contained in another room. Even inhaling the second-hand smoke can have serious consequences. You can reduce the risk even further by placing a rolled towel along the bottom of the door to your cat’s safe room to block any smoke from entering. If you smoke outdoors, check first to ensure all windows are closed. Keep all marijuana and edibles up and out of your cat’s reach. Cats are curious creatures prone to nibbling on things they discover around the house. This includes live plants, dried weed products, marijuana-infused products, and even discarded joints. Signs of Marijuana Ingestion in Cats Most cases of marijuana toxicity aren’t identified because you see your cat nibbling on the offending product. Instead, it often starts with noticing that your cat is acting “off” and discovering the cause of trouble after a careful investigation. As cat parents, we should familiarize ourselves with the most common signs and symptoms. Knowing what to look for will allow us to identify and address the problem sooner. This includes: Drooling VomitingDilated pupils Extreme sleepiness or excitement Agitation, anxiety, or depressionExcessive vocalizationLoss of coordination or balanceLow blood pressure Slow heart rateLow body temperature TwitchingSeizures or comaSome cats will simply act "off." You know your cat better than anyone. Trust your gut, even if you can't pinpoint the exact signs or symptoms.

Expert Shares Tips on How to Exercise Your Dog on Hot Summer Days

Summer is here, but hot weather shouldn’t be an excuse not to exercise your pooch. Walking and exercising your dog daily is great for their mental and physical health and helps create an everlasting bond between you and your canine companion.But, as temperatures rise, dog owners need to understand the risks of walking their dogs in hot weather and look for alternative ways to exercise their pets safely in the heat. A clinical professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Dr. Lori Teller, shared some tips on recognizing signs that it may be too hot to take your pooch for a walk and alternative ways to exercise them more safely during summer.When it comes to dogs and summer, the most important thing is to pay attention to your dog and recognize when it’s too hot to take them out for a walk.“When it’s hot outside, many dogs can be adversely impacted and suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke,” said Teller. “Dogs cannot sweat, and panting is not an effective mechanism for cooling off, so dogs don’t have efficient ways of handling excessive heat.”Although there isn’t a specific temperature that is too hot for all dogs, a good rule of thumb is to avoid walking and exercising dogs during the hottest times of the day. Walk and exercise your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when the temperature has dropped. Consider buying doggy booties to protect your pup’s paws from the scorching pavement.Teller advises, that in addition to being mindful of the time of the day they walk their dogs, owners should also be very careful with young puppies, senior dogs, as well as those with chronic medical conditions. Obese dogs, those suffering from heart and respiratory conditions, as well as flat-faced breeds, like pugs, bulldogs, and boxers, are more likely to suffer from heat stroke or heat exhaustion.Another thing to keep in mind is how adapted your dog is to the climate. For example, if your pooch is used to cooler climates and has recently moved to a warmer area, they are less likely to adjust and tolerate warmer temperatures. While hot summer months may prove difficult to keep a dog active, it’s important to stick with a regular exercise routine all year round to keep your dog healthy.Exercise is a great way for more active and working breeds, which can easily become restless, bored, and destructive, to burn off excess energy. It can also ease stress in anxious dogs. Regular exercise also promotes joint and heart health and helps with weight management.According to Teller, there are many alternatives to walking your dog during hot summer days. These activities can get you outside of the house without jeopardizing your dog’s health.“Dog owners can explore indoor areas such as places to participate in flyball, agility, or even doggy social events,” said Teller. “Swimming and dock diving is also a great activity for dogs that enjoy water.” If it seems too hot to take your dog outside, there are many ways you can exercise your pup at home. Use a long hallway to play a game of fetch with your pooch or create a dog-safe obstacle course. Some dogs will also like chasing a laser point, like those used to play with cats. Finding safe ways to keep your pup exercised during summer may seem challenging, but it’s worth it. Regular exercise will keep your furry friend physically and mentally stimulated without putting them at risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.  If at any point your dog shows signs of overheating, such as anxiety, restlessness, diarrhea, vomiting, excessive panting, drooling, unsteadiness while walking, and collapse, call your vet right away.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Should You Bathe Your Cat?

We’ve all seen those old-school cartoons in which cats absolutely hate water or taking baths. Is there truth to that myth? Should you even question bathing your feline friend? Well, believe it or not, bathing a cat is a topic of much debate amongst owners. Some believe that it is paramount for maintaining their cat’s hygiene, while others think it is stressful and unnecessary. But what is the final word? There are several factors to consider, so let’s delve into it.Cats – and all felines in general – are well known for their cleanliness. They spend a significant amount of time grooming themselves and will use their tongues to remove dirt, parasites, and all that loose fur. This is their natural behavior and cemented their reputation as clean and orderly animals. Besides this, the behavior ensures that their coat remains clean and it reduces the need for frequent baths. And, in fact, regular grooming is sufficient to maintain a clean and healthy coat – for most cats. And while many cats never really need a bath, there are situations where it might be necessary. For example, if your cat has gotten into something greasy, sticky, or even toxic, a bath might be the only possible way to remove that dirt. Similarly, if your kitty has a skin condition, your vet could recommend medicated baths as part of the treatment.What is more, certain long-haired felines, such as Persian cats, could also benefit from an occasional bath. This will prevent matting and keep their fur in good condition. It should also be noted that cats with certain health issues, such as arthritis and obesity, might have problems grooming themselves. In such cases, you need to help them stay clean with a bath. If you decide that your cat needs a bath, it is important to do it safely and calmly. Cats are not usually fond of water and are often willful. So the experience could be a bit stressful for them. In order to minimize that stress, you should choose a quiet time when your cat is calm and relaxed. Use lukewarm water and a shampoo designed specifically for cats. Remember that human products can be too harsh for a cat’s sensitive skin. 

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