Can Cats Get Separation Anxiety Like Dogs?

by Angela Vuckovic

August 2nd, 2023 1:19 PM

mihuu/Shutterstock

We all know that dogs tend to get very attached to their owners, and will often get separation anxiety as a result. But what about seemingly aloof and independent kitties? It is well known that cats can be bossy and temperamental, or simply look uninterested in their owners – until they need their poop scooped from the litter or kibble topped up, of course. Do they get separation anxiety as well? Or are they perfectly fine with you being out and about? Let’s find out how the feline mind works.

It is a popular opinion that cats are willful, stubborn, and can be “mean” as well. And while some cats can have these traits, it is not a universal rule. Cats are wonderful pets and their personalities are so colorful and rich. Despite what you might think, most cats will establish strong and lasting bonds with their owners. So, you can be sure that yes, some cats can display separation anxiety – just like dogs do!

Symptoms of Separation Anxiety in Cats

It is common for dogs to be so dependent on their owners, and even a five-minute separation can seem like the end of the world. But cats can feel this way too and will become distressed when separated from you for extended periods.

However, it might not be so simple to spot this anxiety at a glance. Cats are known for their “stone cold” expressions and overall enigma, so you’ll have to know the right clues that point to separation anxiety and mood changes. Here are just a few signs to look out for:

Excessive vocalization: Howling and hollering? Meowing constantly? These could be the clear signs that something’s amiss. Cats may meow excessively when left alone. If you come back from being away and find your cat like this, it is likely separation anxiety.

Destructive behavior: Here’s another obvious sign. Your furry feline friend may scratch furniture or other items in the house when distressed. If you find your favorite armchair torn to shreds, you know what’s up. You can mitigate this with a scratch pad, but it will not solve the anxiety issue.

can cats get separation anxiety like dogs

House soiling: Cats may start urinating or defecating outside the litter box when anxious. They usually do their “business” always at the same spot, but if they are stressed in any way, this could change suddenly.

Loss of appetite: Cats may refuse to eat when feeling anxious or stressed. This is not your standard “pickiness”. This is a major issue that needs to be addressed.

Hiding or avoidance: Your cat may hide away when they sense you are about to leave. Cats have strong senses and will be well aware of you preparing to leave. If they have been upset by this before, they will hide as a result.

Over-attachment: Cats with separation anxiety may follow their caregivers around the house and demand constant attention when they are present. This can be followed by constant meowing and “climbing” onto your legs.

It's essential to remember that each cat is an individual, and their reactions to being alone can vary widely. Some cats may be more adaptable to being alone, while others may experience significant distress. Some may even love being left all alone! But those that don’t will need your care and company. When you have to go out, it is good to have a pheromone diffuser around. These nifty gadgets emit the same natural pheromone mother cats do when they nurse their babies, so it will calm down your kitty and send them back to those carefree moments. This can be a stopgap solution until you find a way to fix the situation.

Still, if you suspect your cat is suffering from separation anxiety, it's a good idea to consult with a veterinarian or an animal behaviorist. They can help identify the underlying cause and provide strategies to alleviate your cat's anxiety, making the experience of being alone more comfortable for them.

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.

More by Angela Vuckovic

Popular Pet Guide

Close to 500 Golden Retrievers Meet in Scotland to Celebrate the Breed

View Article

Giant Schnauzer

Giant Schnauzer Basics In the world of dog breeds, there is perhaps no dog with a more intimidating name than the “Giant Schnauzer.” But when you actually take a look at the breed, you find that the Giant Schnauzer is really a fairly compact dog for its size and, given enough exercise, can actually be a calm companion. That being said, there are a lot of unique things about this breed you’ll want to be aware of before you’re sure that this is the right breed for you. Although they’re known as “giants,” this breed is simply a larger breed, and is only really a larger version of the Standard Schnauzer. These dogs don’t have to be as intimidating as they sound, but you should certainly know what you’re doing if you want to be able to acquire a dog of this breed, train it, socialize it, and help it to grow into the confident, friendly dog that it deserves to be. If you’re a good owner, you’ll probably find that the Giant Schnauzer is perfectly capable of being a good dog in return. Like all Schnauzers, it’s no surprise that the Giant Schnauzer hails from Germany as the country of its origin. Origin Like all Schnauzers, it’s no surprise that the Giant Schnauzer hails from Germany as the country of its origin. Specifically, the Giant Schnauzer comes from the Bavarian areas of Germany, making it a true German country dog and one that has been bred and well-suited for an outdoor lifestyle. The Giant Schnauzer rose to prominence at the dawning of the 20th century, giving it a similar timeline to many of the more popular German breeds of today, including the German Shepherd. Closely related, of course, to the Standard Schnauzer, the Giant Schnauzer also comes from a lineage that includes German Pinschers. Known as the Riesenschnauzer in Germany – a simple translation of “Giant Schnauzer” or “the giant” – the origins of the Giant Schnauzer’s habits come from herding and driving cattle in Bavaria. The Giant Schnauzer also has a history of being used as a guard and police dog, as did many hearty breeds in the same area and relatively same historical timeline as that of the Giant Schnauzer. Pedigree

Poodle

Poodle Basics When you think of a poodle, what kind of dog do you think of? Many of us immediately imagine the Toy Poodle. However, that is only one of the many types of Poodle out there. Sure, the Toy Poodle is iconic, but as a breed, the Poodle has a surprising amount of variety and versatility. Poodles can be athletic, rambunctious, energetic – just about anything under the sun. At least relative to the expectations of Poodles that many people bring to the table. People are far too willing to put the Poodle in a box of limited expectations. The Poodle deserve more respect than that. They are such a rich and exciting dog breed filled with possibilities. Hopefully over time, The Poodle will finally get the respect that they deserve as one of the most exciting, versatile, and intelligent dog breeds around. The Poodle is an extremely smart dog, ranking second only below the Border Collie as the most intelligent dog breed. They are highly-trainable and make excellent service and therapy dogs. As family pets and companions, these popular dogs are loving, playful and even a bit mischievous. You’ll never be bored with a Poodle by your side. In fact, you’ll have to keep an eye on your Poodle companion to make sure that they don’t use those big and powerful brains to get up to trouble. While a lot of people might think of Poodles as the epitome of a lapdog with an elaborate hairstyle, these dogs come in all sizes- from toy to standard Poodles that weigh up to 70 pounds. If you want to find out which type of Poodle is the right one for you- or if the breed is a good match for your family in the first place- read on. As you may have gathered by now, there are so many different types of Poodles out there that almost impossible that that there won’t be one that can fit into your lifestyle. As a breed, this dog has a surprising amount of variety and versatility. Origin The Poodle might seem like a posh show dog, but these dogs actually started out as working dogs (generally as water retrievers, or “gun dogs”). Their original role was to assist hunters in retrieving waterfowl (such as ducks) from the water. Their curly coat, which is now primped up for dog shows, was valued for its moisture-resistant qualities. The German word “pudel,” in fact, actually refers to all the splashing these pips would get up to during any hunt. The English word “Poodle” was derived from it. Even though the breed originated in 19th century Germany, the standard was perfected in France, which considers Poodle to be a national dog breed. These dogs are now known primarily as show dogs and pets. Selective breeding had a great deal to do with this change in perception. There are three varieties of Poodle, and according to the American Kennel Club, the oldest of these varieties is the large or ‘Standard’ variety. The Poodle was bred to have a water-resistant coat – which helps explain the quality of the current dog’s coat – that was eventually groomed and patterned according to taste and style rather than worrying simply about functionality. Other types of Poodle today include Toy and Miniature. Although they retain the main traits of their full-sized relatives, their compact size makes them a perfect fit for condo and apartment dwellers. They are generally quite well behaved pooches who can get on well within a small space and can be left alone for extended periods of time without causing too much trouble. Other types of Poodle today include Toy and Miniature. Pedigree

Why You Should Adopt a Dog From a Shelter

Complete your family and adopt a dog from a shelter If you’re looking to add another member to your family, you should adopt a dog from a shelter. There are thousands of dogs looking for a forever home and chances are you’ll find a loving companion that will give you and your family years of unconditional love. Many people are reluctant to adopt a dog from a shelter for various reasons. After all, there’s a stigma attached. These dogs were given up because they have “issues”. But these so-called issues were caused by a deficiency in the human owner – lack of leadership, exercise and training. In the right home, you’ll find that many of the issue disappear with the right amount of love, patience and attention. One of the many great things about a dog is that it lives in the moment. That means they forget the past and can’t wait to get to the fun the future holds for them. Sure, the previous owner might have thought that this dog was broken, so it was traded in until they could get a “perfect” dog. But when you adopt a dog from a shelter, that adult pooch you have your eye on in the shelter is ready for a fresh start. If you treat this dog right, you’ll find it has so much more potential than the previous owner saw. The best reason to adopt a dog from a shelter – you’ve just made a loyal friend for life. Before you even go to adopt a dog from a shelter, you need to decide the right kind of dog for your family. Is there a certain breed that works better for your home environment and lifestyle? Do you have kids and other animals in the household? Do you have an active or sedentary lifestyle? Can you step up to the plate and be the leader your dog needs? These are all important questions you need to answer before you adopt a dog from a shelter. Once you’ve come up with a general game plan, it’s time to start visiting rescue shelters. Don’t just focus your energies on one – be sure to get to several shelters in order to see a wide range of dogs. We know that you’re excited, but you don’t have to bring home a dog on your first day out. You’re not doing the dog or your family any favors if you choose based on a first impression, and you end up returning it. In fact, it may hinder that dog from being adopted by another family – dogs that keep getting returned have a greater chance of being put down. When you find a potential dog, approach the cage carefully and calmly so it sniff you. Don’t be alarmed if a shelter dog growls or barks at you – it may be wary of strangers, especially since so many come through the shelter every day. Take the dog out of its cage (with the assistance of the shelter staff, or course) and take it for a walk. Keep in mind that this dog probably has some pent up energy and is raring to go (hey, you would too if you were kept in a cage all day). After you pick the right pound puppy, it’s time to sort out all the paperwork and take your dog home. Check to see that all of its health records and procedures are in order so you have everything you need for your regular vet. Be sure to check out our article on what you should do to make the transition from the pound to your home a smooth one. And the best reason to adopt a dog from a shelter – you’ve just made a loyal friend for life.

What To Look For In A Doggie Daycare

Tips On What The Perfect Doggie Daycare Will Offer Only dog people can relate to how important it is to find the right doggie daycare for your fur baby. There are lots of reasons why your pup would need to go to doggie daycare: perhaps you’re away all day, or maybe your dog needs some socialization skills, or you just feel better when your dog is being taken care of by caring people. Whatever your reasons are, there is some homework involved in finding the right doggie daycare for your pooch. There are a range of doggie daycare facilities to choose from. Vets and groomers offer day boarding, as do well-known pet stores, retailers and open-space facilities. There are even people offering their own doggie daycare from their homes. We’ve put together a few tips for you to watch for when picking out a doggie daycare. There is some homework involved in finding the right doggie daycare for your pooch. Initial assessments: Not all dogs are a good fit for a particular facility. Because dogs have different temperaments, always insist that your dog receives an initial assessment to see if it’s a suitable environment. The other dogs that hang out at that doggie daycare may have a totally different energy than your dog’s – during your first visit, introduce your pooch to the group slowly and safely.Cleanliness is next to dogliness: You can’t expect a doggie daycare to be so clean that you can eat off the floor (ick), but it should be tidy and shouldn’t smell like a dog bathroom. Take a look around and make sure accidents (because they do happen) are cleaned up quickly and the other dogs are healthy looking.Supervision and Staff: Someone needs to be the pack leader, even when dogs are playing. A good doggie daycare will have proper supervision to ensure proper doggie manners are present at play. A live body should be with the pack at all times – lazy dog sitting by glancing now and then through a window or gate isn’t going to cut it. A good rule of thumb is there should be one human to every 10 to 15 dogs.Size does matter: Is there enough room for your dog to play, both indoors and out? Inside, your dog should have about 70 to 100 square feet of space to run around off leash. As for outdoor space, it should be more than just a place for your dog to do his business. Being inside all the time is boring, even for a dog. The doggie daycare you choose should have a large, secure space to play and get some fresh air (and of course, have a pee break).Experience and Control: You don’t want to leave your best friend with someone who has no experience working with dogs. Ask questions and find out how long the doggie daycare has been in business, who is in charge and how experienced they are when it comes to working with dogs. Ask around at the dog park or at a local dog club to see what businesses come highly recommended. And see what kind of control measures the daycare employs. Look for positive reinforcement training rather than a doggie daycare that uses aggressive or physically tactics. Do you put your dog into a doggie daycare program? Would you recommend it? Leave your comments below. And if you are on the hunt for a doggie daycare, make sure to go to more than one business before making your decision – it’s not all about convenience or locale, it’s about your dog’s safety and comfort.

Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinscher Basics Come across a Doberman Pinscher in a dark alley and you can have a frightening experience indeed, particularly if you are afraid of dogs in the first place. But when we think of all the so-called “meaner” breeds of dogs, do we really mean they always make bad pets? Well, they can – if you don’t know what you’re doing in your dog selection efforts. You might be surprised to find out how appropriate a Doberman Pinscher can make as a pet as well as the quality of the companionship and loyalty they offer once you’ve formed a bond with them. But you might say, “I don’t want to form a bond with a Doberman Pinscher.” Well, that’s your loss. The Doberman Pinscher does indeed serve as a first-rate guard dog that will repel just about any unwanted visitor, but what’s also important is the day-to-day life you enjoy with your pet. And if you are thinking about acquiring a Doberman Pinscher as a pet, this article will help put this scary-looking and tough breed in its proper context. In other words, we’ll bring the Doberman Pinscher out of the dark alley and back into the welcoming and familiar setting that comprises your home. Let’s take a closer look at this strong breed of dog. Doberman Pinschers are famous as guard dogs, of course, and are highly responsive to training. Origin In the United States, these dogs can simply be known as Dobermans, but the Doberman and the Doberman Pinscher aren’t two different types of dog – they’re just two names for the same breed. And where did this breed come from? Like some other tough breeds such as the German Shepherd, the Doberman Pinscher comes from Germany and has its closest roots tied to 19th-century life. The Doberman was named for a man called Louis Dobermann who originally bred the animals. And what was Dobermann’s profession? Tax collecting… that’s all you need to know about his need for protection. Since he had access to a number of dog breeds, Dobermann set about breeding a dog that would make a loyal companion and excellent guardian. It’s no surprise that this deliberate breeding led to the quality dog we now know as the Doberman Pinscher. Its guardian instincts and loyal companionship remain well in tact here in the 21st century and it’s not a surprise that the Doberman Pinscher has become one of the most popular and recognizable breeds across the world. Pedigree

What is a Facility Dog?

You’ve heard of therapy dogs and service dogs, but what about facility dogs? A facility dog is trained for work in a facility setting. You’ve undoubtedly heard of therapy dogs, but you may not know that there are many different categories. Some dogs are trained to perform certain tasks completely on their own, while others are trained to work with a handler. Facility therapy dogs are trained to work with individuals or groups of people in a facility setting. What exactly is a Facility Therapy Dog? In the simplest of terms, a facility dog is a type of therapy dog that is trained to provide certain services. What sets a facility dog apart from other therapy dogs is the fact that they’re trained to work with a handler in a facility setting. For example, a facility dog might be used to assist a group of clients (often children and adults with disabilities as well as seniors) to manage daily tasks or to participate in education or entertainment programs. Related: Top 10 Therapy Dog Breeds Facility dogs usually work hand-in-hand with counselors, therapists, guidance counselors, psychologists, and rehabilitation therapists. Some of the facilities where this kind of therapy dog might work include assisted living facilities, skilled nursing facilities, special education classes, medical rehabilitation programs, and psychiatric programs. What Benefits do Facility Dogs Provide? The most important service that facility dogs provide is motivating and inspiring clients. According to Therapy Dogs United, the key benefits of a facility dog are to, “encourage physical movement, verbal and nonverbal communication, and improved social behavior.” Studies have shown that many clients with disabilities or special needs respond more positively and more enthusiastically when there is a dog involved. In a facility setting, the dog and the client work together to accomplish the goals set by the therapist. In addition to making therapy sessions more productive, having a facility dog present can also make them more comfortable and more positive. Related: Top 10 Best Psychiatric Service Dog Breeds Here are some of the additional benefits a facility dog can help to provide: Improved mobility and response to physical stimuli (increased ability to overlook pain in order to engage in physical activities).Social and emotional development through conversation and improved social interactions.Support and friendship for those who have trouble making new friends or who have low self-esteem (the dog can be both a motivator and a reward).Distraction from negative feelings, providing calm companionship to reduce stress and anxiety and to relieve loneliness. Facility dogs undergo a lot of training before they are used in the field. In order to qualify as a facility dog, the dog must be trained in obedience and must have a calm and even temperament. Dogs receive special training to respond to specific cues and to work under the direction of the handler. Facility dogs must be able to adapt to interaction with people in many different situations, always remaining calm and polite no matter the circumstances. Facility dogs play an important role, as do all therapy dogs. If you work in a facility that you think could benefit from a facility dog, you can apply to a program like Canine Companions for Independence or Therapy Dogs United to request one.

Feeding Techniques for Your Coral Reef Tank

When you’ve got a coral reef tank, you need to think about the eating habits of all the inhabitants. Here are some tips to ensure they all get their fair share. We already know that different fish, inverts, and corals have different diets. Some like algae, others like meat, some like a combination of both. As aquarium hobbyists, we often go through great lengths to ensure that our fishy friends are getting the best diet that we can provide. We culture live foods, buy fresh meats, insects, and vegetables, and some of us track how much they are eating daily. The thing is that it’s not always as cut and dry as throwing food into the water and letting them dig in. In a tank that has multiple species, some will inevitably out eat others. Some fish are aggressive in their feeding techniques, while others will hide and come out after the pushy fish have finished. This means that some of those shy fish will not get adequate nutrition. Related: Why You Need To Dip Your Coral in Coral RX To keep multiple types of fish, corals, and inverts in one confined area, we have to be creative in ways to ensure they each get their share of the food. That’s where some of these feeding techniques come in, and using them can literally be a life saver to your fish and corals. Dinner and Dancing Making food appear alive is one technique that can come in handy. Some predatory fish need their food to put up a fight, and providing them with a supply of living food isn’t always a practical option. The alternative is to make the food appear alive by pinching it in a pair of tweezers and making it dance so the fish catch its prey. This is also a handy tool for wild caught fish who simply don’t know what to do with commercial pellets or flakes that don’t move or fight back. You can also use this trick if you have a sick fish that needs to receive medication, but you don’t want any of the other fish to get the medicated food. Using a pair of tweezers, or a stick to present the food to a specific fish, is one way to make sure they get what they need, without having to separate them from the others. Related: Growing and Propagating Your Own Coral Turkey Basting Time Using a turkey baster or similar product to suck up smaller food items allows you to deliver a burst of food to one particular area of the tank. This method can be used to get a burst of brine shrimp, plankton, or other tiny foods over a specific area of the aquarium. It can be used either for a specific fish, or over a group of corals that feed on something specific, or even as a tool to draw the tank inhabitants away from one area and into another. Hand Feeding The last method feeding technique is hand feeding. It’s a fun way to interact with your fish so that they get used to your hands being in their home. It’s a cool feeling to deliver their meal by hand and to enjoy being up close and personal with them. Take caution, however, if you keep anything in your tank that has sharp teeth, spines, or can be potentially toxic to humans. There are probably other methods to feed fish, and getting creative is the key here. Any way to provide ample nutrition to your aquarium or to just find a new way to interact with your tank can help rekindle lost interest in the tank, or just bring a new way to enjoy it.

How To Stop Bleeding Dog Nails After Trimming Mishaps

Most pet parents don’t like trimming their dog’s nails just in case they nick the quick. If you accidently cut your dog’s nails too short, here’s how to stop the bleeding. For most of us pet parents the challenging part of any pet grooming session isn’t enticing an unwitting Rover into a bathtub full of soapy water but getting him to sit still for the dread nail clip. Let’s face it, whether your little buddy is a dog or a cat with talons that sound like he’s tap dancing across the floor, no one messes with his paws. Am I right? In fact, that’s why we’ll let them grow out…cutting the dog’s nails is just a dreaded task on both ends of the spectrum. You worry about cutting too short and that anxiety can be felt by your dog. Your dog worries because you’re worried and because you’ve got those naughty clippers out again, but you both know that one little mistake can leave you both in tears and some blood. The quick is the vein or nerve that runs in every nail and if you accidentally cut into the quick, it could be like Bloody Mary has made a reappearance. You’ll run the risk of ruining carpet, furniture and more, but you’ll also add to your dog’s memory of trauma when you’re grooming. And nobody wants that. Still, especially in times like these when you can’t even get to the groomer’s sometimes, you need to be able to trim your dog’s nails. Even the most experienced and careful groomers can sometimes face nail bleeding, especially if your dog’s a darker color. It’s easier to see the quick in dogs who have white or light-colored nails, and so it’s easier to avoid clipping them too short. For those dogs with darker-colored nails, you and Fido have a harder time coming to an understanding on cutting placement. Why Do You Need To Bother? Like we said, many dog parents won’t even bother with nails if they don’t have to and they’ll just hope some walking will help wear them down naturally. The thing is…it won’t. And that’s a big deal because your dog relies on trim nails for so many reasons–proper posture Included. Long nails may make them shift their weight back, and that makes them take more stress on their back and hind legs than they’re used to. Dog pads are used for them to feel and grip surfaces, and to bring sensory in, and if their nails are too long, they miss out on that and may be fearful of stepping in places. If their nails are too long, they may spread the dog’s toes apart and that makes walking tougher. And dewclaws can get so long that they grow curled back into your dog’s pads and can create an infection. Nail trimming is way more important than many may think. When Should You Clip? When you hear your dog’s nail click-clacking as he walks across the floor or hard surface, it’s usually a sure sign that he’s ready to have them clipped. The general rule of thumb is to clip where the nail makes a defined curve down towards the floor. Don’t cut too far beyond that or you could snip the quick. Keep in mind that the longer you allow the nails to grow, the longer the quick may grow, as well. So when you have an uncooperative pooch, a hesitant groomer (you!) and a sharp utensil, you need to be ultra-careful with each snip and always prepared for when accidents happen and a too-short cut results in a damaged quick and bleeding nail. Related: How to Trim Nails for a Perfect Pooch Pedicure To be clear, your dog’s quick grows along with his nail so the longer the nail the longer the quick. Clip only at the curve of his nail where it begins to turn towards the floor — not shorter. And because the quick is composed of blood vessels and nerves, it most definitely hurts when you injure it and it will bleed. So don’t be too aggressive and if the pedicure becomes too stressful, consider trimming just one foot every few days. If you have nicked the quick, here are four speedy steps to stop the flow of blood — and of course a treat at the end of any traumatic event always goes over well and helps encourage future cooperation. Warm WaterThe quickest fix is to run his paw in a slow stream of warm water. Make sure his foot is raised to take pressure off the wound and then wrap the paw in a wet washcloth. Gentle pressure on the injured toe for at least 20 minutes (and some soothing words) should stop the bleeding. Styptic PowderHandy for when nail trims aren’t part of the bathing ritual and warm water isn’t handy, styptic powder contains Benzocaine which is a topical anesthetic as well as ferric subsulfate which helps stop bleeding. Dip your pet’s nail into the powder (it will initially sting) and apply gentle pressure for a few minutes. Tip: don’t wipe away the blood before dipping because it will aid coagulation. Related: The Dog Scout’s Guide to Dog First Aid Kits Unscented SoapIt might seem strange, but a wet, softened bar of soap can act as an effective point of pressure and stop bleeding in minutes. This is a great hack when you’re unprepared for the bleeding fiasco and need to grab something that’s on hand in the bathroom- and fast, while you’re at it- to quickly put a stop to the nail bleed. Run the soap bar under water until it softens enough for the nail to gently imprint into it: in other words, until it is soft enough for you to leave a mark by pressing your finger on the bar. Take the bar of soap and gently press your pet’s toenail into the bar and hold for 3-5 minutes until the blood stops trickling. If he’s uncooperative, try breaking off a piece and pressing it into his toenail instead. Follow with the application of a clean, damp gauze and another five minutes of pressure to completely stop the bleed. Natural PasteIn a pinch you can make a homemade paste out of flour, baking powder or cornstarch and a little water. Make it thick, apply it to the nail and leave for five minutes. Repeat if necessary. The paste will help prevent bacteria from entering the wound and aid coagulation. Again, don’t wipe away the blood before you apply this mixture. Your ultimate goal is to stop the bleeding through pressure and prevent infection. Following any of these procedures, keep your pooch quiet and off his feet for at least 30 minutes. When you are certain the bleeding has stopped, you can then rinse his paw with warm water and bandage with gauze to prevent him from licking or potential infection. Consult your vet if after these steps the bleeding is still not under control or if the toe remains tender, becomes swollen or is red in the days that follow. And, remember you’re certainly not the only person that’s ever accidentally cut your dog’s nails too close. They’ll forgive you, so you’ll need to forgive yourself–because nail trimming must be done.

Dog Chapel In Vermont Honors Bond Between Dogs and Humans

Created by late artist and children’s author Stephen Huneck, this chapel celebrates the special relationships and bonds we have with our dogs. Late artist and children’s author Stephen Huneck’s life literally centered around dogs. He and his wife Gwen, who passed in 2013, lived just down the road from Dog Mountain–a 150 acre-mountaintop paradise of fields, ponds, and trails that is a sanctuary for dogs and people alike. Huneck wrote over 10 books about his black Labrador Retriever, Sally, and his home was adorned with art and decor dedicated to dogs. The family also included a black lab named Daisy, and a Golden Retriever named Molly. Related: Dog Tales Sanctuary Is Like Heaven On Earth, For Dogs And People In 1994, Huneck suffered from a life-threatening bout of Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome after falling down a flight of stairs. Doctors did not expect him to recover, but after he did, Huneck was inspired to create what he called his largest and most personal artwork: Dog Chapel. Huneck envisioned Dog Chapel to be a place where people could celebrate the bonds they have with their dogs, and one step inside dog chapel clearly shows his belief in the importance of that bond. An “All Creatures Are Welcome” sign welcomes visitors, and Huneck carved the ends of the the wooden pews into the shapes of sitting dogs.

Simple Homemade Beef Stew Recipe For Dogs

The meat and veggies combo in this beef stew is always a hit with dogs and using wholesome, healthy ingredients to make their meal improves the flavor by far.Your dog needs a break from dry kibble now and then. No matter how much your pooch loves the crunchy yummies, they’re bound to get fed up with it. Hey, you’d get tired of eating the same meal day in, day out. That’s why adding a tasty topper to your dog’s usual grub or switching one whole meal from the menu can be a good idea. A change of pace can be just what your pooch needs, and cooking something nice for your pet will certainly be something for you to enjoy. This beef stew for dogs is easy to make, costs next to nothing, and won’t have you slaving away in the kitchen. To boot, you can double (or triple) the recipe and make portions ahead for the freezer. Next time when you feel like treating your pooch to a hearty homemade meal, just pop it out and defrost- bon pawpetit!Of course, while homemade food is a tasty, healthy treat but you shouldn’t overdo it. Pet obesity is a serious issue that some even call an epidemic- gaining excess weight can lead your pet straight to a myriad of health issues. This beef stew should be doled out from time to time, especially if used as a topper for kibble. Too much indulging in yummy foods can only be counterproductive in the long run, so stick to recommended portion sizes. In case you are looking to make a switch to cooking for your dog instead of feeding them kibble, this yummy recipe can be a great way to “test the waters” and see how your pet likes the switch. Needless to say, you should consult a vet first if you plan on doing a homemade-only diet, to avoid any risk of nutritional deficiencies.This recipe is a fave with our furry taste testers, so we don’t doubt your pooch will go bonkers for it, too. The meat and veggies combo in this beef stew is always a hit with dogs and using wholesome, healthy ingredients to make their meal improves the flavor by far.Simple Homemade Beef Stew For DogsIngredients:16 oz stewing beef3 medium potatoes3 medium carrots2 celery sticks2 pints (4 cups) chicken stock2 tbsps. vegetable oilDirections:Peel the potatoes and cut into small pieces. Chop up the two celery sticks. Peel carrots and chop into small pieces. The size of the pieces should be bite-size, but the veggies should soften additionally during the cooking, so don’t worry if your pieces are a bit chunky.Brown the meat by adding two tbsps. of oil into your large saucepan or pot and all of the beef. Cook the beef on medium-high heat until it is brown on all sides.Once the beef is brown, add chicken stock and bring to boil. It would be ideal if you have homemade chicken stock to make sure it’s free of unnecessary additives. Cover with the lid slightly ajar and leave to simmer for 45 minutes.Add the vegetables to the pan. Replace the lid (slightly ajar) and let simmer for another 45 minutes. If you want a thicker stew, remove the lid completely after 30 minutes.Take the pan off the heat and let cool for a few minutes. Serve to your happy and hungry dog- with or without kibble for garnish.Cooking for your dog can be a rewarding experience. You get to decide what exactly goes into their dish without having to worry about hidden harmful ingredients lurking in their food. Organic, natural, homegrown- it’s your choice of ingredients, but make sure it’s all fresh. Lastly, while this beef stew contains no problematic ingredients and uses only dog-safe foods for preparation, if your dog is unused to cooked food, he might have a slight stomach reaction. But I guess a few farts is something every pet parent can deal with, right?What if My Dog is Allergic to Beef? If you have a dog that is allergic to beef, you can still follow this recipe with one important substitution. In place of ground beef, choose another pet-friendly ground meat. Some popular options include ground chicken, pork, or ground turkey (white or dark meat). For dog parents that are currently focusing on a novel protein, you can also substitute some of the rarer meat options in place of beef, like alligator or bear. Follow the rest of the recipe like normal. Benefits of Carrots for Dogs Not only do carrots add a little color and flavor to your homemade dog food, but they are also incredibly healthy. These orange, crunchy vegetables are high in vitamin A, which is where they earned their reputation as a superfood. Vitamin A supports eye health, helping to prevent the development of vision problems like night blindness. This is why so many of us were regularly told to eat our carrots as children. But your dog’s eyes aren’t the only thing that will benefit from including carrots in this recipe. Other nutrients provided by carrots include vitamins B, C, D, E and K, potassium, calcium, phosphorous, niacin, magnesium, and fiber. They help to support healthy bone development, improve digestive health, protect the body against free radicals, and prevent the development of disease and infections. Some experts even credit carrots with helping to reduce the risk of cancer. The best part about carrots? They are low in calories. This means that your dog can enjoy these benefits even if they are on a diet! We love easy recipes and we bet you do too! Give this one a try and let us know how it turns out. As well, if you have any recipes for dogs you’d like to share, please send it to us. You can get email it to us using the contact page.

Keep a Constant Tail On Your Dog With This Kickstarter Smart Collar De

Much as we’d like to, we can’t always be with our dogs. A cool smart dog collar device is in the final days of its Kickstarter, and bound to be a game-changer when it comes to watching our pets 24/7. It’s a fact of life — we can’t always hang with our dogs. That can be hard when we have young or old pups, or dogs who have separation anxiety. We worry about how they are doing, and wonder if they need anything. Ease some of that pet parent guilt. French startup company Jagger & Lewis has designed a smart-collar device that attaches to your dog’s collar and will allow you to connect to your dog anywhere. It improves the quality of life for our dogs and eases our anxiety when we can’t be with them. Related: New Device Allows The Blind To Monitor Their Guide Dog The device monitors the physical and behavioral characteristics of your dog and constantly compares to previously programmed behavior. As well, the unit boasts as a large database of dog types and algorithms that can alert you if your dog exhibits abnormal behavior patterns. Jagger & Lewis’ device will monitor your dog’s behavior in six different areas: hunger, thirst, sleep, activity, stress, and disease. The statistics are compared to previous data on your dog, as well as data from other dogs using the system, and this info can be valuable when determining if there is an urgent situation developing. The free app comes with encyclopedic knowledge, and even offers suggestions of remedies should the device notice issues like excessive barking or thirst. Related: Watch and Treat Your Dog with the Furbo Pet Camera

Andalusian Hound

Andalusian Hound Basics Ranging in size from small to large, the Andalusian Hound has been a favorite breed in its homeland for hundreds of years. With its pointed snout and large, erect ears, the Andalusian Hound is a skilled hunting breed known for its excellent sight, hearing, and sense of smell. Though typically used for hunting hare, some of the larger specimens of the breed have been used for deer and wild boar. Andalusian Hounds come in three sizes – small, medium, and large. Origin The Andalusian Hound is type of hound that originated in Spain, in the Andalusia region specifically. It is closely related to various Iberian breeds such as the Portuguese Podengo, the Maneto, the Ibizan Hound, and the Podenco Canario. Though there are cave paintings depicting dogs that look similar to the Andalusian Hound and related breeds, recent genetic testing reveals that related Podenco breeds were more likely developed from European hunting dogs, not ancient Phonecian breeds that were introduced in Spain about 3,000 years ago. Pedigree

Hilarious Cat Adoption Profiles Will Make You Do A Spit Take!

A man who sneaks funny signs into the real world embarked upon a clandestine mission: to write new profiles for adoptable cats at a California shelter. The result: thousands of people spitting out their coffee at the hilarity! Jeff Wysaski says he lives, breathes and eats the Internet. He spends his days sneaking funny signs he’s created into the real world, and let us tell you, he is funny! Related: 10 Photogenic Pet Selfies That’ll Make You Smile Recently, he decided to use his hilarity to help out his local pet adoption center, Sante D’Or in Los Angeles, California. His plan included secretly placing cat biography cards he’d created outside the shelter’s front window and sharing the pictures on all his social media sites. Jeff also let his followers know that every year, 2.7 million cats go unadopted, and he hoped his humor made the cats more ‘real,’ bring attention to the significant need for loving forever homes. He posted his creations on Obvious Plant Facebook Page, and Sante D’Or responded, thanking him for the attention and encouraging him write even more biography cards for other shelter residents. Here are a few of the cards we thought were brilliant:

Gene Therapy Promising For Neuromuscular Disease Treatment In Dogs And

When our dogs develop debilitating and life-ending disorders, our hearts break. Researchers from the University of Washington believe they have promising treatment options for dogs who have a previously incurable neuromuscular disease. Researchers from the University of Washington, in collaboration with Harvard University, Virginia Tech, The Medical College of Wisconsin, INSERM (French National Institute of Health and Medical Research), and Genethon are encouraged by their latest findings about the restoration of muscle strength and the prolongation of life expectancy for dogs who have a rare inherited neuromuscular disorder called myotubular myopathy, or MTM. MTM is a disease caused by a gene mutation in male dogs. In affected dogs, those genes would typically make a type of protein called myotubularin, which is necessary for proper muscle function, and they don’t. Because of this, there is a fatal deterioration of muscles, and much like what happens to affected human baby boys, puppies typically die early in life because of breathing difficulties Related: Embark to Test DNA in Dogs For Possible Future Diseases The findings, published in Molecular Therapy showed a way to safely replace the MTM-causing defective gene with a healthy gene throughout an affected dog’s entire musculature. Dogs affected with the disease and treated with a single infusion of the gene replacement showed no distinguishable differences when compared to non-affected dogs a year later. Researcher and physician Dr. Martin K. Childers of the University of Washington said that this treatment therapy and technology gave a complete restoration of normal health to dogs that would typically have died from the disease without it. He also said that the findings were dramatic in result and rescue and give researchers in other inherited disease fields hope for the potential application elsewhere, specifically with relationship to human studies. Related: Encouraging Research Links Heart Failure Cause and Treatment for Dogs and Humans This means that not only is there new hope for affected dogs, but for affected humans, and once again proves dogs to be the leaders in protecting their best friends.

10 Dogs Diggin’ Their New ‘Dos

Have you ever wondered what your pooch would look a fancy hairdo? For your daily dose of hilarity, we present 10 pooches who have sacrificed their dignity for a few giggles. 1. Punk

Beefaloaf Meatloaf Dog Food Recipe

All creatures deserve to be able to consume their meat in loaf form, not just humans. After all, it is one of the most beloved forms of good old fashioned comfort food. The kind of meal that you whip up when you want to feel good. When you think of comfort food, good ol’ meatloaf has to be one of the first meals that comes to mind. One of the great pleasures of mastering the art of cooking is being able to finally craft your own meatloaf. It makes you feel like an adult. It makes you feel alive.Wouldn’t it be great if you could offer your dog the same kind of meaty goodness in his bowl at dinner time? What a beautiful dream, right? Well, fortunately this doesn’t have to be merely a dream any longer. Now you can live this dream and your doggo will be forever grateful. Without further ado, I’d like to present my personal recipe for Beefaloaf Meatloaf For Dogs. It’s not that far off a human meatloaf recipe, so don’t worry about this seriously challenging your kitchen skills. I merely added some vegetables that I had in the fridge (and an apple I had left over from my apple treat recipe) and viola… yummy doggy meals that will last a few weeks. Now, I won’t feed these to Oscar every day. I will give him the meatloaf every fourth day to vary his diet. The rest will go into the freezer until I need to use it. That makes this a gift to my dog that keeps on giving.So, how to you fill up your little pup’s tum with the meatloaf that he deserves? Keep your eyes glued to this page and keep on reading. All of my Beealoaf secrets are about to be revealed!My Legendary Beefaloaf Meatloaf Dog Food RecipeThe Ingredients:1 pound of lean ground beef2 eggs1 ½ cups of rolled oats (You can use gluten free oats if you want. This might be better for your pup’s tum.)1 ½ cups of grated mixed vegetables (Use your dog’s favorite veggies to keep him interested. I used broccoli, carrots, and apple. But feel free to get creative with this portion of the recipe to ensure that it tickles your dog’s tongue in all the ways that he likes.)½ cup of cottage cheeseDirections:Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.Hand-mix all of the ingredients in a bowl until they are combined thoroughly. Press evenly into a loaf pan. Pop it in that oven.Bake for a full 40 minutes.Refrigerate or freeze in slices for easy serving. Do not feed it to your dog warm. While humans like that, your pups will gobble this up so quickly that he might hurt himself.Why You Should Be Cooking Homemade Meals For Your DogsSome people feel a little strange about cooking homemade meals for their pups and fair enough. It’s not exactly common practice. So, if you’re feeling reluctant about cooking food for your dogs at home, it is worth considering the fact that there are a lot of great reasons to start doing so. This isn’t a new trend amongst overachiever dog owners. It’s a way of controlling your pup’s nutrition to ensure that they live long and happy lives. You don’t have to feed your dogs exclusively homemade meals either, as you can rotate homemade meals with high-quality dog food that you purchase in stores. Your dog will still be able to get all of the vital nutrients that he needs to thrive, and he gets to enjoy a wide range of flavors and textures. It allow you to improve your pup’s diet in a variety of ways. However, if you still need more convincing to whip up some homemade meals for you pooch, here are a few other reasons why more and more pet parents are taking this approach to their animals’ care. It truly is a worthy cause:You know exactly what is in your pet’s food. This is important. Especially given all of the recalls that occur in the pet food industry. Not to mention all of the controversy over the quality of the ingredients found in even the most trusted brands of dog food. When you cook your dog’s meals at home, you can rest assured that you will know precisely what he’s eating, and how much of it. Having this kind of control can only come from buying your own ingredients and cooking the food yourself. Leaving a dog’s diet entirely in the hands of pet food manufacturers simply isn’t something that many dog owners are comfortable with.You can use organic and all natural ingredients if you want. When you cook your dog’s food yourself, you can purchase the highest quality ingredients, and you can probably save money in the process. Check out the price of a brand of organic dog food (which can be hard to come by), and then consider how much you can buy in raw ingredients when you go to the grocery store and purchase those same organic ingredients yourself. This can be a cost-cutting measure as much as it is way of taking control of your dog’s diet.You can avoid allergenic ingredients. If your pooch is the type who is sensitive to a lot of ingredients, cooking his food yourself can also give you a greater amount of control in this regard as well. You can simply leave out any ingredients that you know won’t agree with your dog. Whether you need to avoid a certain carbohydrate or you need to feed your pet a higher quality protein, you can do that when you prepare his meals at home. It puts the power in your hands.You can add supplements to ensure a balanced meal. If you are planning on feeding your dog homemade food exclusively, ask your veterinarian about supplements that you can add to the food in order to ensure that it is properly balanced for health and longevity. The right multi-vitamin/mineral supplement for canines, for example, can help fill in any nutritional gaps in your recipes. Plus, when you buy your own supplements, you can stick with those that you truly trust—once again, you’ll know exactly what’s going into your dog’s food, which can definitely be reassuring. But again, you should talk to your vet about what recipes you’re planning on feeding your dog, and you should work together to make those recipes perfect for your pooch. The whole point of cooking food for your dog is to improv their diet. If you aren’t ensuring that the meals you prepare meet the nutritional standards that your dog needs to thrive, then there’s really no point in doing it. So, if you plan to take on this responsibility, it’s important to take that responsibility seriously.Healthy Vegetable Options for Dogs When choosing the vegetables for your dog’s Beefaloaf Meatloaf, there are many great options. Fresh vegetables are not only delicious, but they are also a great way to boost your dog’s nutritional health and address specific health concerns. Veggies are no substitute for veterinary care, but they are an excellent addition to your greater treatment plan. Here are a few options to consider: Carrots Just like carrots are a healthy addition to our diet, they are also an excellent choice for your dog. They are high in vitamin A in the form of Beta Carotene, which helps to support healthy eyes. This powerful vitamin also helps to reduce the risk of night blindness. While this isn’t going to reduce pre-existing vision issues, adding carrots to your dog’s diet can help to prevent problems from developing or getting worse in the future. Brussel SproutsThis may not be at the top of your list of favourite vegetables, but some dogs love the taste of brussel sprouts. They are a great source of vitamins A, B, C, and K. They are also packed with fiber. But be careful how many brussel sprouts your dog has been eating, as it can make them gassy. Green BeansGreen beans are a delicious, crunchy treat on their own, and they are also a great addition to a recipe like this. They contain high levels of vitamins A, B, C, and K, as well as manganese, protein, and dietary fiber. Eating large amounts of green beans can turn your dog’s poop a greenish-blue color. Do you cook meals for your dogs? If so, I’d love to try and share your recipe. Please send it to me using the contact form here and I’d be happy to try it out!If you have any further thoughts on home cooking for canine’s or perhaps have some ideas on how to improve this doggy meatloaf recipe, then we’d love to hear them! Please leave us a comment below and together we will all become the person puppy chefs that our dogs deserve!

Pitsky

Pitsky BasicsDo you want a unique-looking, energetic, and bold dog? Then the Pitsky just might be the right breed for you. This designer dog is a handsome and muscular cross between an American Pitbull Terrier and a Siberian or Alaskan Husky. They are perfect for people who love either of those popular breeds. They are an especially appealing option for husky-lovers who live in warm climates that aren’t ideal for purebred huskies. Owing to their parental breeds, Pitskies are spirited and smart, but also demanding dogs. They do best in high energy households and require lots of exercise.Ontop of all of that, both his mom and dad need an experienced owner, so their offspring is no different. With the wrong person by his side, a Pitsky can be stubborn, unmanageable, and even aggressive, so it’s important to train and socialize them in a timely manner. Pitskies might be wonderful designer dogs, but they are not a viable option for first time dog owners. They need experienced owners who can handle the occasionally tough responsibilities inherit in raising a Pitsky.As a mixed breed dog, the Pitsky will inherit traits from both of his parents, so there’s no way to predict how they’ll look once they grow up. Pitskies are unique in appearance, and no two of them look the same. Pitskies can be any color, have short or long hair, stand up or floppy ears, and even carry on the blue eyes common in huskies. One thing is certain, though: you’ll fall in love with these puppies as soon as you lay your eyes on one. Of course, even though they are undeniably cute and have a lovable temperament, the Pitskies are not a good match for every family. Read on to find out if this designer dog breed is the right choice for you! All the info that you’ll need is below. Simply keep your eyes glued to this page and scroll away to discover if you’ll be bringing home a Pitsky anytime soon.The Pitsky is a handsome, muscular cross between an American Pitbull Terrier and a Siberian or Alaskan Husky.OriginThe origin of the Pitsky is unknown. Husky and pitbull mix dogs have been around for decades, but it’s not until recently that they became a product of intentional breeding. No breeder currently claims that they were the ones to start producing Pitskies first. However, it’s highly likely that the breed came to be during the peak of designer dogs craze. In the last 20 years, crossbreeds have been becoming more popular, so it’s probable that this is the timeframe in which someone decided to cross huskies to pitbulls in an effort to create a new designer dog breed. Unfortunately, there’s not really any other information about the origin of the Pitsky. Like most designer dogs, no one really bothered to document their history. All we can do is feel grateful that they exist.Pedigree

Cumberland Slider

Cumberland Slider General InfoBecause Cumberland Slider Turtles are related to the Red Eared Slider Turtle, they make great pets, and when it comes to their care requirements, they need the same things that Red Eared Slider Turtles would.The differences between the Cumberland Slider and the Red Eared Slider include where they are found and their color (Cumberland Sliders are more yellow, as well as lighter in color, than Red Eared Sliders, and they don’t have the distinctive “red ear” either).Cumberland Sliders make great pets.Native Habitat

Can Cats Get Separation Anxiety Like Dogs?

Symptoms of Separation Anxiety in Cats

Popular Pet Guide

Close to 500 Golden Retrievers Meet in Scotland to Celebrate the Breed

Popular Article

How Do I Prepare My Dog for a New Baby Arrival?

Can Cats Get Separation Anxiety Like Dogs?

Symptoms of Separation Anxiety in Cats

Popular Pet Guide

Popular Article

Related articles