World’s “Ugliest” Dog is a Real Cutie

by Mary Simpson

Published: June 26th, 2024

We're loving these winning underdogs who show beauty is more than skin-deep.

Photo Credit: stockelements / shutterstock.com

Things got pretty ugly in California’s world-renowned wine region this month. Actually, things have been getting pretty ugly in the picture-perfect town of Petaluma for over 50 years now. And it has nothing to do with a bad vintage.

You see, the town is home to the highly popular “World’s Ugliest Dog” competition. And once this year’s event kicked into full gear, it didn’t take long for the judges to pare the pickings down to just eight lovable yet peculiar-looking finalists.

Now, this unique contest runs during the Sonoma-Marin Fair and dates back to 1971 when it was introduced as a tongue-in-cheek means to raise funds for a local charity. Registrants paid a small entry fee and then brought forth their homely pooch for judging. Prizes were nominal and it was all in the spirit of whacky good humor.

Fast forward, and this fun-loving event has now gained a seriously amped-up appeal. Judges range from an NBC news correspondent to a state official, a local journalist and even a retired area prosecutor – so no shenanigans happening here! Yes, pomp, pageantry and excited yips (from both dogs and owners) are all part of this prestigious contest.

Cue the drum roll as we reveal this year’s winner of the coveted World’s Ugliest Dog title. It’s eight-year-old Pekingese, Wild Thang who travelled with mom, all the way down the west coast from Oregon.

Showing off a mug only a mother could love, Wild Thang’s

perseverance (this was his 5th competition with no prior win), paid off and earned his owner a cool $5,000 and a spot on NBC’s Today Show. So, congrats go out to Wild Thang for finally moving from dread “always a bridesmaid” status to that of top dog.

But who are the also-rans who weren’t quite ugly enough to earn the actual title?

Say hello to first-time contender Rome, a 14-year-old wheelchair-bound Pug who lives at a nearby sanctuary for seniors called The Pug Hotel. Renowned for being up for anything, this pooch is known to sleep with one eye open, just in case food, fun or frolics are about to happen. And because online fans of this annual event are also eligible to vote for that one special dog that tugs at the heartstrings – AKA the People’s Choice category – Rome went home with a little more than second-place status.

Then there’s senior, Daisy Mae who, at 14 years is another oldie but goodie. Toothless, almost blind and losing her hair, this winsome pooch began life as a street dog before being rescued a dozen years ago by a family who thinks her beautiful personality trumps that rough-looking exterior.

Now organizers quickly point out that this contest isn’t about mocking ugly dogs. It’s about having fun with these truly unique and wonderful characters and showcasing the side that might not be visible at first glance. Also, the importance of adopting all animals, not just the cute and cuddly.

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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Scooter, a Chinese Crested, Awarded the Title of World’s Ugliest Dog

As dog lovers, we’re all familiar with the Westminster Dog Show and the perfectly groomed and well-trained dogs that it introduces to the world. But in Petaluma, California, a different group of pups is being shown the spotlight… This city in the San Francisco Bay Area is home to the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest.Hosted as part of the Sonoma-Marin Fair, this show celebrates the unique qualities that make every dog special, even if they don’t fit the traditional definition of “beauty.” For nearly 50 years, this one-of-a-kind contest has brought together dogs of all sizes, backgrounds, breeds, and ways of life. While they may have little quirks that make them an individual, like crossed eyes, underbites, mismatched ears, or abnormal stances, these pups quickly capture the hearts of everyone they meet.This year, the contest was held on June 23rd. The judging panel featured some big names, including Miss California Catherine Liang and Gaudi Schwartz, co-host of NBC news Stay Tuned. After viewing all the contestants, including paperwork confirming they are healthy (despite their unique features), the title was awarded to a Chinese Crested named Scooter.

Was the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest Rigged?

This year’s winner of the World’s Ugliest Dog title is a Neapolitan Mastiff named Martha. But we think she’s way too cute and think the contest was rigged! Judges recently named a 125-pound Neapolitan Mastiff named Martha the World’s Ugliest Dog at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in California, beating out several Chinese Cresteds who typically take top honors. The judges found Martha, who had been neglected to the point that she was blind before she was rescued and given her sight back through surgeries, delightful, if not a bit flatulent, in the process. Related: Avert Your Eyes! These Dog Toys Prove That Ugly Is The New Adorable Veteran judge Brian Sobel says that he looks for unique dogs, and while the three-year-old sweetheart is definitely that with her jowls-for-miles smile, in a contest of ugly dogs, I have to go out on a limb and say I believe that the winner should be, well… the ugliest. Martha’s mama, Jessica Burkard of Penngrove, California, adores Martha and her gentle giant spirit and she does seem like a sweet gal. But seriously… Not all dogs catch the pretty stick, if you know what I mean, and this was a contest for them! Take this gal for example…This 6 1/2-year-old Blue Factor Brussels Griffon is named Monkey. I’m thinking she’s more like a mini-Chewbacca. A mean-muggin’ mini-Chewbacca, that is!

Meet Sweepee Rambo, The 2016 World’s Ugliest Dog

What she lacks in beauty, she makes up for in heart. Meet Sweepee Rambo the new “World’s Ugliest Dog”. At the ripe old age of 17, Sweepee Rambo is basking in her newfound fame. The Chihuahua/Chinese Crested mix was crowned the 2016 “World’s Ugliest Dog” last weekend at the Sonoma-Marina County Fair in Petaluma, California. Weighing in at just 4 pounds, Sweepee is blind, hairless (save for the grey tufts sprouting from her head) and covered in freckles with a perpetually wagging tongue. But don’t feel too sorry for Sweepee being crowned with such a seemingly ignominious title — she’s already an instant celebrity, having made an appearance on the Today Show (which will likely be the first of many TV appearances!) and is loved to pieces by her owner. Related: Former World’s Ugliest Dog Wins 2016 Heroic Hounds Award She also stands as an representative for dogs everywhere, particularly the ones that may not fit the traditional fluffy, cute and cuddly mold. In fact, that’s the entire point of the annual World’s Ugliest Dog competition — to showcase dogs that may not be conventionally cute and demonstrate that all dogs are lovable, adoptable and worthy of amazing furever homes, despite any so-called imperfections. And you don’t have to tell that to Sweepee Rambo’s proud owner, Jason Wurtz — she’s always been top dog in his eyes. “I’ve had girlfriends over the years and they were jealous of her and like I told them, she was here when you came and she’ll be here when you leave, that’s the best friend I have,” Wurtz told TODAY. She has even ridden to work with Wurtz on his motorcycle every day for the past 17 years — talk about bad to the bone! So congratulations, Sweepee Rambo! Long may you reign, demonstrating to hoo-mans everywhere that beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder. [Source: Today]

Vote for the 2016 World’s Ugliest Dog!

Forget Trump vs. Clinton — this is where the real action’s at. Make your voice heard by voting for the 2016 World’s Ugliest Dog. Mark your calendars, folks. On June 24, the winner of this year’s World’s Ugliest Dog contest will be crowned at the Sonoma Marin Fair in Petaluma, California — and you can vote! And if you live in the Petaluma area, you can even enter your own “ugly” pooch in the contest. Past winners of coveted crown include Walle, a basset hound/boxer mix, Peanut, a tiny chihuahua with a history of abuse and last year’s winner, Quasimodo, a short-spined mixed breed. The grand prize includes a massive trophy and $1,500 cash – not too shabby! There is also a Spirit Award for the dog and owner who have overcome obstacles or giving back to their community in a meaningful way. Entries and votes will be accepted until June 22, so what are you waiting for? Get out there and vote! While votes will be taken into account as part of the competition, the winner will ultimately be decided by a panel of dog-loving judges. The judges score the dogs on five metrics: first impression, unusual attributes, natural ugliness (which cannot have been altered for purposes of the contest), personality and audience impression. And lest anyone feel bad about voting for a dog as the “World’s Ugliest”, not to worry — it’s all about raising awareness that all dogs deserve the best lives possible. “We’re proud to celebrate all dogs and pets by showing that no matter their imperfections, they are adoptable, lovable and a great add to any family.” says Erin Post, CEO of the Sonoma-Marin Fair. The World’s Ugliest dog also gets a chance to live that Hollywood lifestyle — past winners have appeared on Jimmy Kimmel, Good Morning America and other international news programs. To vote for this year’s World’s Ugliest Dog or to enter your homely hound in the race, head on over to the Sonoma-Marin Fair website.

Former World’s Ugliest Dog Wins 2016 Heroic Hounds Award

Coming out of retirement, Mugly the Chinese Crested dog makes a triumphant return and has won the 2016 Heroic Hounds award at the National Pet Show in London. Never let appearance hold you back from helping others. That’s the motto that Mugly carries with him wherever he goes. Starting off life abandoned by a breeder a three days old, the 2012 World’s Ugliest Dog champ has gone on to inspire and teach about the true meaning of beauty. Mugly, a 12-year-old Chinese Crested, worked for Therapy Dogs Nationwide as a therapy dog. He helped children learn to read and visited adults with physical disabilities and learning challenges. And even though he’s off of the ugly pageant circuit, Mugly’s contributions are center stage, which is why he won the 2016 Heroic Hounds award at the National Pet Show in London. His adoptive mom, Bev Nicolson, couldn’t be prouder of Mugly. She says that the hairless pooch can sense when someone is upset and will comfort them, and he’ll remain completely still when curious humans want to touch him. “He is just so sensitive and for a little dog that is up against it in the looks department he really makes up for it with his personality and sensitivity,” says Nicholson said last month. “People fall in love with him as soon as they meet him.” Way to keep inspiring others, Mugly! Your inner beauty shines through and we think you’re the most beautiful dog in the world! [Source: The Washington Post]

How Much Water Should a Cat Drink?

Drinking plenty of water is very important for cats, especially in the hot summer months. Of course, it’s up to you to ensure that your feline friend stays properly hydrated, as they are usually not big on drinking water – but it ensures their well-being and good health. Cats can often be picky and peculiar when it comes to their drinking habits, which makes their owners unsure as to how much water a cat should drink in the first place. This amount can vary based on several factors, including the cat’s diet, weight, age, and their health. Taking all these aspects into account can help you provide the best possible care for your furry feline friend.How Much Water Should a Cat Drink Each Day?It has to be said right away that one of the most significant factors that influences a cat’s water intake is its diet. Cats primarily eat either dry kibble or wet food, and each type of food has a very different moisture content. For example, dry kibble contains just 10% moisture, while wet cat food can contain up to 80% moisture. Because of this, kitties that consume dry food will naturally need to drink much more water to compensate for the lack of moisture in their diet. In contrast, cats that eat wet food may drink less water, since they get a lot of their hydration from their food. Incorporating wet cat food into your pet’s diet can increase their liquid intake. Even mixing a small amount of wet food in their dry kibble can help up the moisture content. For those particularly finicky felines, liquid treats are always a good way to entice them into hydrating, the unconventional way – if they are stubborn when it comes to drinking more water, they might be more open to liquids if they have a savory flavor they love.

How Do I Keep My Reptile from Overheating?

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

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Dog Poop Incident Grounds a United Airlines Flight

Have you ever been on a flight where your travel experience didn’t go to plan? If so, you’re not alone! From unruly passengers to flight delays and rough weather conditions, so many factors are out of your control.But what about a mid-air doggy disaster?Travelers on an April 5th United Airlines flight from Houston to Seattle learned the hard way just how quickly a traveling pooch, an unfortunate aisle, and the need to “do some business” can create a very unpleasant situation.According to Reddit user James Hobbs, a passenger’s dog had a “messy accident” in the aisle in first class after taking off. He went on to describe the chaotic situation that followed. Since his post, others have shared their experiences on the flight. Additionally, a representative from United Airlines confirmed the event occurred to reporters and larger publications.Unfortunately, this pup didn’t just have a stinky bowel movement. Other travelers described it as being in “very liquid form” with a scent so strong that passengers were given alcohol wipes to sniff to drown out the strong odor.After being diverted to Dallas, ground crews set to work cleaning up the putrid mess for a solid two hours. However, even that wasn’t enough…“The mess was so bad in the first-class bathroom that even after cleaning, they still closed it for the rest of the flight,” described Hobbs. He went on to say, “The cabin crew deserve accolades. They responded well despite having to hop over the mess.”For pet parents, this incident raises concerns that other travelers may question the policies for pets traveling in the cabin. United Airlines allows pet parents to travel with up to two pets. Each pet must fit into a carrier small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Passengers with two pets must purchase two tickets, side by side, to accommodate the spots needed for each pet. As of April 26th, a $150 fee each way is added to your ticket cost for including a pet.During the flight, pets are required to stay in their carrier. The recent incident has confused many frequent travelers.How could the dog have created such a mess while still safely contained within their carrier? If the dog was removed from the carrier, why did this happen? What could have been done to prevent the mess and inconvenience to all other travelers on the flight?While we will likely never have an answer, here are a few tips for smooth airline travel with your pet:Visit the Vet Before Flying: Book a check-up with your vet before taking your dog on a flight. This will ensure your pup is in good health and help reduce the chance of “accidents” due to sickness or other complications during travel.Stop Feeding 4-6 Hours Before the Flight: Make sure your dog has had a solid meal, then cut off any food approximately 4 to 6 hours before boarding the flight. This gives them time to digest and “pass” their meal before the flight.Take a Final Bathroom Break: Make sure you stop at the airport’s pet relief areas just before boarding. Just as we need a final bathroom break before traveling, so do our pets.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

ACANA™ Pet Food Team Announces Nationwide Kitten Cuddler Promotion

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

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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.

Can Dogs Get Pink Eye?

Eye issues are always a big nuisance, for both dogs and their owners alike. Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is one of the more common ailments that affects the eyes and can happen to any of us. But can it affect dogs as well? Yes – conjunctivitis is quite common in dogs, and it causes red, inflamed eyes. In this case, it is called canine conjunctivitis. It can be caused by various factors including bacterial or viral infections, allergies, foreign objects in the eye, or other irritants, and it is manifested in several different ways – this is what you need to know if you suspect your pet has pink eye.Can Dogs Get Pink Eye?There are different types of conjunctivitis in dogs, and some are more dangerous than others. Either way, all dog owners should be well informed about all the potential issues that this inflammation can lead to, as well as the potential causes behind the different types of pink eye.Bacterial ConjunctivitisThis form of conjunctivitis in dogs is often characterized by a yellow or green discharge from the eye, along with redness and swelling of the conjunctiva, which is the thin, transparent membrane covering the inner surface of the eyelids and the white part of the eye. Bacterial conjunctivitis can be connected to other conditions such as respiratory infections or trauma.Viral ConjunctivitisCertain viral infections such as  canine distemper virus or canine adenovirus can also lead to conjunctivitis in dogs. These infections may cause watery discharge, redness, and inflammation of the eye. Viral conjunctivitis can sometimes be more challenging to treat and may require supportive care to manage symptoms.Allergic ConjunctivitisJust like us, dogs can also experience allergic reactions that affect their eyes. Common allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or certain foods can trigger allergic conjunctivitis in some dogs. Symptoms may include itching, redness, and watery discharge.IrritantsSometimes, foreign bodies and irritants in the eye can cause conjunctivitis. Things such as dust, sand, or grass can irritate the eyes and if not treated, lead to conjunctivitis. The same goes for certain airborne chemicals and smoke which can lead to further problems. Conjunctival HyperemiaSomewhat rare, this condition involves dilation of blood vessels in the conjunctiva membrane, resulting in redness of the eyes. It can be caused by various factors, including irritation, trauma, or systemic diseases.Treating and Preventing Pink Eye in DogsTreatment for canine conjunctivitis typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may include topical or oral medications such as antibiotics for bacterial infections, antiviral drugs for viral infections, or anti-inflammatory medications for allergic reactions. In some cases, supportive care such as eye rinses or lubricating drops may be recommended to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.Of course, it pays to do anything you can to prevent the inflammation from occurring in the first place. Be wary of potential irritants and things that could hurt your dog’s eyes and lead to conjunctivitis. If you live in an area with plenty of dust, pollen, smoke, or anything similar, it might be wise to invest in  special protective gogg l es for dogs.

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Spring is finally upon us! For dog owners, spring is always a welcoming sight as it signals the start of longer walks in the park and more time in the garden. The backyard is usually a fun place for you and your pooch to play and run around. However, certain types of plants are dangerous to dogs and can make your backyard a safety hazard. Experts advise that some spring plants and flowers, both indoors and outdoors, can be harmful to your pooch and should be avoided at all costs. Some of these plants are known to cause upset stomachs, itching, vomiting, and, in severe cases, even cardiac arrest in dogs. Craig Wilson, co-founder, director, and gardening expert at Gardeners Dream, has listed the toxic flowers and plants you should keep from the home and garden if you have a dog. DaffodilsDid you know that daffodils, one of the most popular heralds of spring, are poisonous to both cats and dogs? These trumpet-shaped flowers contain a toxic compound called lycorine which causes stomach pain and diarrhea when ingested. Bulbs are the most toxic part of the daffodil plant, but dogs can also get sick after consuming the flowers. Even drinking the water from a vase that contains daffodils can cause toxicity in dogs.Tulips All parts of the tulip plant - bulbs, stems, leaves, and flowers - are toxic to both cats and dogs. The bulb stores the highest concentration of toxins, making it the most toxic part of the plant. Most dogs will experience drooling, diarrhea, and vomiting after consuming tulips. In severe cases, dogs can experience heart problems and difficulty breathing.IrisesColorful and hardy irises are a popular flower in many household gardens. Unfortunately, irises are toxic to dogs and can make your pooch sick if ingested or touched. Irises contain irisin, a toxic compound that triggers tissue irritation when swallowed or touched. The bulbs and rhizomes hold the highest concentration of irisin, making this plant particularly hazardous to dogs who like to dig.Hyacinths Many people like planting hyacinths in their gardens, but these tall and vibrant plants are harmful to dogs. Hyacinths belong to the same family as tulips and contain calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals are present in all areas of the plant and are shaped like needles. When ingested, these crystals can pierce a dog’s soft tissues, causing severe pain.Symptoms of hyacinth poisoning also include diarrhea, vomiting, abnormal breathing, increased heart rate, and convulsions. If you suspect your pooch has ingested any part of the hyacinth plant, take them to the vet as soon as possible. BluebellsAll parts of the bluebell plant contain a toxic compound called glycosides. Not only are bluebells harmful to cats and dogs, but this plant is also toxic to horses and cattle. If any part of the bluebell plant is consumed, it can cause stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. When eaten in large quantities, bluebells can be fatal.Hydrangeas Many gardeners love the look of hydrangeas in the spring and fall, but dog owners beware - hydrangeas are toxic to dogs. Dogs can become poisoned from eating any part of the hydrangea plant, as they all contain cyanogenic glycoside.Chewing plants with this toxic compound releases cyanide and can result in loss of appetite, vomiting, depression, and increased heart rate. Munching on the flowers, buds, leaves, or bark of the hydrangea plant can make dogs sick, so keep a close eye on your pooch whenever they are sniffing around a hydrangea plant.These are just some of the most common plants that can make your dog sick, but there are more! If your pooch likes to munch on plants, it’s best not to leave them unsupervised in the garden.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

BARK Air Introduces a New Flight Tailored for Dogs

Onboard, they have carefully considered every aspect of air travel for dogs. For example, they serve all canine passengers their beverage of choice during ascent and descent to help prevent the discomfort often caused by cabin pressure changes. Of course, during the flight, your pup will be treated to a bit of pampering with dog-friendly snacks. “When we started BARK in 2011, we were on a mission to disrupt the dog space and create products designed for dogs and their humans. We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over the years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies,” explained BARK’s Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Matt Meeker. “We believe this initiative will elevate awareness of our brand’s mission and values, introduce more dog lovers to the BARK family, and help enrich the lives of dogs and their people around the world.” BARK Air will launch with limited routes from New York City’s Westchester County Airport (HPN) to Los Angeles’ Van Nuys Airport (VNY) and London, England’s Stansted Airport (STN). Dog parents are taking to social media, where the news is going viral, to express their excitement about the announcement. The first flights will take off on Thursday, May 23. Visit DogsFlyFirst.com for more information about BARK Air, available flights, and booking. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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