5 Fish Questions You Always Wanted to Ask

by Summer Davis

Published: September 13th, 2016

5 fish questions you always wanted to ask

There is no such thing as a stupid question, especially when it comes to fish. But if you’re still too hesitant to raise your hand, here are five questions you always wanted to ask.

In my experience as a fish keeper, there are always new and interesting things to learn. In fact, I’m learning cool new fish stuff all the time! In my travels on the internet, I come across a series of questions that people are dying to know the answer to – and I’m happy to answer them. Here are the top five questions you always wanted to ask… and the answers may surprise you!

Do fish sleep?

Even though they always appear to be awake and moving, fish DO sleep. They don’t have eyelids to close their eyes like we do, but fish do slow down and will appear to be zoned out. Fish don’t go in to a deep sleep like humans do, but their bodies and metabolisms have periods throughout the day when they are not as active as others. Some fish must keep moving to ventilate their gills, while others may lay down on a leaf or rock to catch their zzzz’s.

Related: How To Speak Fish

What’s the world’s largest/smallest fish?

The largest fish in the world is the whale shark, which grows to over 50 feet in length. The title of smallest fish goes to the Philippine goby, measuring in at 1/3 of an inch.

Do fish feel pain?

Fish CAN feel pain, just like humans. This seems obvious, but until recently many experts were unsure. Fish have all of the same senses that we have, along with their lateral line organ that gives them an extra radar like sense to process their surroundings.

Related: Why Toilet Funerals Need To Go

Can fish make sounds?

Fish are often thought of as silent, but many fish can make noises by grinding their teeth or squeaking their swimbladders. Catfish are known to croak when pulled from the water, and sound similar to a frog.

Where are the least likely places to find fish?

Fish exist in more than just our waters. Many common products we use every day contain fish or fish parts. Lipstick contains fish scales and there are clothing lines made entirely from crab shells. And how do you get rid of that nasty morning breath? Brush your teeth using toothpaste, which contains, you guessed it – fish!

Feel free to use this information to impress your friend and family, who will be impressed with your stunning insight into the world of fish trivia!

Summer Davis is the mom of three kids, four dogs, and several tanks of fish. She boasts a passion for all animals, whether they are in the water or on land. This fish aficionado has kept many different species in her time, but holds a special place in her heart for wild and domestic bettas. When she’s not talking about fish, Summer “spins” her extra time as the director of a baton twirling organization.

Summer Davis

Summer Davis is the mom of three kids, four dogs, and several tanks of fish. She boasts a passion for all animals, whether they are in the water or on land. This fish aficionado has kept many different species in her time, but holds a special place in her heart for wild and domestic bettas. When she's not talking about fish, Summer "spins" her extra time as the director of a baton twirling organization."

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Risky Business: Four Types of Dangerous Aquarium Fish

Swimming in the shallow end isn’t for everyone. Some people like their fish to have a bit of bite! Check out these four types of dangerous aquarium fish if you want to swim on the wild side. If you like to live life on the edge, and prefer to think outside of the box when it comes to aquariums, it may appeal to you to add an element of danger to your tank. We’ve picked out four ferocious fish you may want to tangle with (but you wouldn’t want to meet them in a dark alley). They have qualities that make them dangerous, either to humans or to other aquatic life, and if you’re a thrill-seeker, they’d be a perfect fit for your aquarium! Lionfish These saltwater fish can grow to 12 inches. Lionfish are equipped with spines that they use to take down prey and predators, and even humans. There are several types of lionfish; however, the most sought-after type for aquariums is the Red Lionfish. A sting from a lionfish is venomous, but is not usually fatal to humans. It can cause symptoms such as headaches and nausea, and of course, pain. Related: 5 Fish Questions You Always Wanted to Ask Pufferfish If you’ve ever seen the face of a puffer fish, especially the cartoon variety, your initial reaction may have been “Awww!” But don’t let their round puppy-dog eyes and puckered lips fool you; these fish are poisonous and can be deadly. Puffer fish use air to expand their bodies when stressed, and their skin has prickly spines that contain tetrodotoxin, which is extremely poisonous to humans. There is currently no known antidote, so use extreme caution when in close proximity to these fish. Also, take care when choosing tank mates for them, as any fish likely to try to attempt to eat a puffer will die. Piranha No list of dangerous fish would be complete without the most famous carnivorous fish, the Piranha. However, this one is not as aggressive as media has led us to believe (seriously, have you seen the movie “Piranha 3D” – yeah, they’re not really like that). Related: 4 Annoying Pests Found in Your Freshwater Aquarium These guys do have some sharp teeth and can bite, but are not likely to attack a larger predator or an aquarist’s hands if given the chance. They are much more likely to prey on a carcass in the wild, and actually eat a pretty varied diet consisting of meats and vegetable matter. Keep in mind that although they would prefer not to attack you, they can and will, if they feel threatened. It’s important to remember that they do they have incredible force behind those jaws and can bite a finger clean off. Stonefish The stonefish is the most poisonous fish known to man. The stonefish is a saltwater fish that possesses 13 spines on their back and can bury themselves into the sand. In the wild, people risk stepping on them and getting stung, and if this happens, immediate medical attention is required. Despite their deadly qualities, people still seek to keep these fish in home aquariums. They grow to sizes of up to 16 inches. Even though they’re not the most attractive fish in the sea, the novelty of owning such a dangerous fish keeps them in high demand, and they are also consumed in some parts of the world.

Taking a Closer Look at Oscars

One of the most popular aquarium fish species is the Oscar. Brilliantly colored and quite smart, there’s a lot you didn’t know about these tough fish. Some of the most common aquarium fish are called Oscars. Scientifically named Astronotus ocellatus, these fish are a cichlid, and are a more aggressive and territorial fish not best suited to a community tank. The interesting and unusual fact about Oscars is that even though they may be a tough fish, this fish comes in a variety of beautiful color and fin types. Oscar Colors and Types You may have seen the run-of-the-mill brown variety, and if it is a well-cared for fish, it will have beautiful markings on its sides. The brown or black oscar is called a tiger oscar. There is also a red oscar that is quite striking. They also are available in an albino color, which appears as a mostly white fish with pinkish colored eyes. Some refer to white oscars with orange or red markings as albino, but these are a separate strain called a Lutino Oscar. Related: 5 Fish Questions You Always Wanted to Ask Oscar Fins As for fin types, the typical oscar has short fins and resembles most of the other cichlids in its family, but there is also a long-finned version that is gorgeous. The long-finned oscars encompass a tough guy personality with a pinch of a more delicate and graceful fish, like a betta. Oscar Care Oscars are large cichlids, and grow to lengths of about 12 to 14 inches and need a 100 gallon tank to be comfortable. They are intelligent fish, and can be taught to do tricks for food, and have been known to form a relationship with their keepers. Some people can even pet their Oscars, and they like it! The Oscar is an easy fish to care for, assuming it has a tank of the right size. They eat just about anything, but that doesn’t mean that they should. Oscars enjoy crickets, grasshoppers, beetles, and other insects you can find outside. They also love live fish as food, just use caution on where you get the feeder fish because disease can and will be spread if they are not healthy. If you breed other fish, your oscar will happily help you eliminate the culls. They also will eat commercial fish food, in any shape or form. Feed a varied diet for optimum health, and your oscar will grow and thrive quickly. Related: 6 Easy Hacks to Cure Fish Boredom Breeding Oscars Breeding oscars is not a simple process, though it can be done. Oscars show no differences between males and females that can be seen prior to breeding, so getting a pair can prove to be difficult. Sexual maturity varies in these fish, and they can be picky about choosing a mate. That means that even if a keeper is lucky enough to have a male and female, they may not choose to spawn with each other. Oscars are egg layers, so if your fish do decide to spawn that is what to look for. They can lay hundreds of eggs at a time, and survival is up to the environment. For someone looking for a large fish to occupy a larger aquarium, an Oscar may be a great choice. They are fun to watch, beautiful to look at, and are intelligent. If treated well, they will give their keepers 10 to 13 years of life to amuse them.

6 Popular Aquarium Fish You Need To Avoid

Just because a fish is beautiful or readily available, it doesn’t mean you should keep it in your own aquarium. Make sure you don’t get reeled into these six aquarium fish that shouldn’t be in your tank. Walk into just about any fish store and you’ll find a plethora of fish. If you go in unprepared, it’s easy to get caught up in the beauty of the tiny fish in the tiny tanks, and start buying them up left and right. When you get home and look into the background and care of these fish, you’ll learn what a horrible mistake you’ve made. Many of the fish in stores are not meant to be kept by the average person. They grow far too large for most aquariums the average person has in their home. The sad reality is that in most cases, these fish will die long before a larger tank is needed. Related: Take a Walk On the Wild Side of Bettas The following list is of fish that should be avoided when adding stock to your new or existing aquarium. Part of being a responsible pet owner, of any kind, is knowing about your pets before you bring them into your home. Common Pleco: As common as they may be, the common pleco has no place in the average home aquarium. These beautiful fish are typically just a few inches long when first purchased by an unsuspecting new tank owner, but they will inevitably grow to be rather large. A common pleco can reach lengths of up to 18 inches, and if cared for properly, will live 30 years. Many new aquarists think that they need an “algae eater” in their tank; however the truth of the matter is that it is easier to take care of the algae yourself than to get a fish that will never grow and live to its full expectancy. Unless you are equipped for this large of a fish, with a large bio load to go with it, skip the common pleco and go with a smaller variety such as a bristlenose pleco. Related: 5 Fish Questions You Always Wanted to Ask Arowana: These fish are stunning creatures that offer a glimpse into prehistoric times. That being said, they grow quickly, are aggressive, and prefer to be alone in an aquarium. While there are several different types, none of them are for the average aquarium owner. They require enormous tanks, a quality diet, and a well-equipped and knowledgeable keeper. The silver arowana, which is kept by experienced aquarists, can grow to be 35 inches long from head to tail. This is not a fish that should be tossed in a community tank, as it will only result in disaster. Pacu: Aquarists looking for a large “manly” fish will often turn to the pacu. A pacu is a fish that is related to the piranha, but instead of sharp teeth, it has teeth similar to a human. They may be slightly gentler than a piranha when small, but don’t be fooled – these fish can reach 3 feet long and can weigh up to 55 lbs in the wild. These giants can easily break the tank glass with a swift hit, and since they are omnivorous, they will quickly pick off any tank mates that can fit into their massive jaws. If a beefy, manly fish is what you’re after, skip the pacu and go for some of the smaller varieties of cichlids that are available. Red Tail Catfish: Many people adore catfish, and rightfully so. Catfish have a grace about them, while still being strong and agile. A commonly available catfish purchased by unsuspecting aquarists is the red tail cat fish (RTC). The RTC can reach amazing sizes of 5 feet long, quickly outgrowing even the most experienced fish keeper’s tanks. They will also eat most tank mates, which doesn’t make them the most popular fish in the aquarium. Bala Sharks: The word “shark” appeals to those who don’t yet know the hobby. The truth is that these “sharks” are actually minnows. The first big problem is that they grow far too large for the home aquarium, reaching sizes of 16 inches. Consider that, because they are minnows, they are schooling fish and need to be kept in groups of 3 or more – that’s a lot of long fish to keep in a home aquarium. They need large tanks to be able to keep a group of them comfortably. Iridescent Sharks: Once again, another “shark” that isn’t a shark at all. These are catfish that will grow to be 4 feet long, and can weigh nearly 100 lbs if grown to their full capability. They are commonly harvested in the wild for their meat. It’s fairly obvious that a fish that grows to this size cannot be kept by the average home aquarium owner. This is far from an all-inclusive list of fish that should be avoided, but should serve as a suitable stepping stone, and learning opportunity, to always research before you buy. If you want to see large aquatic creatures, visit your local aquarium where they are kept the way they should be and can grow to their full potential instead of dying prematurely due to stunting in tiny tank.

Take a Walk On the Wild Side of Bettas

Hey betta… take a walk on the wild side! You know about bettas, but what do you know about wild betta fish? Let’s take a look at wild bettas that can be kept in an aquarium. Just about everyone knows the betta – it’s a beautiful, colorful fish that can be purchased just about anywhere. What most people don’t know is that there is a whole other side to bettas that are not nearly as common in the aquarium trade. The less vibrant, but perhaps more beautiful, wild cousins to the average domestic betta are abundant in its natural habitat. Related: Taking a Closer Look at Oscars A key difference between wild bettas and domestics is that males and females can be kept together in the same aquarium. The wild bettas are much less aggressive towards each other than domestic bettas, which were bred initially for fighting There are many species of wild betta. They are divided into complexes: AkarensisAlbimarginataBellicaCoccinaFoerschiPictaPugnaxSplendensUnimaculataWaseri Each complex has its own particular characteristics that make them unique, such as breeding habits, color, shape, size, and scale patterns. Related: 5 Fish Questions You Always Wanted to Ask The Splenden complex is the closest wild cousin to the domestic betta that is typically seen in the aquarium trade. Wild splendens, such as B. Imbellis, B. Smaragdina, and B. Mahachai come in stunning colors such as copper, green, and gold. They are bubble nesters – the male creates a bubble nest by exhaling at the surface of the water; he then embraces the female, which causes her to drop her eggs. Once he fertilizes the eggs, he places them into the bubble nest and tends to the nest until the fry are free swimming. Other bubble-nesting complexes include Coccina, and Bellica. The Unimaculata complex includes species such as B. Pallifina, B. Macrostoma, B. Ocellota, and B. Patoti, among others. They are larger in size than their domestic cousins and also have a different breeding practice called paternal mouthbrooding. During spawning, Unimaculata embrace, much like the Splenden complex, however the male will take the eggs in his mouth and hold them in his chin area, called the buccal cavity. He keeps the fry in his buccal cavity until they have grown and absorbed their yolk sac before he releases the fry into the world. Other mouthbrooding complexes of wild betta include Akarensis, Albimarginata, Foerschi, Picta, Pugnax, and Waseri. Wild bettas are found in the waters of Indonesia and Thailand. Conditions vary greatly through the different species, so research is required before attempting to keep wild bettas in a home aquarium. They are, however, rewarding fish to keep. Some of the species are critically endangered in the wild, and their only hope of survival is to be kept in home aquariums. Many wild betta keepers rave about the rewarding challenge in breeding, keeping, and watching their fish. Want to learn more about wild betta fish? Head over to International Betta Congress for more information about this fascinating fish.

Mice Have Passed the Mirror Test: What It Means

The “mirror test” is used by scientists to help them determine if an animal is self-aware—if an animal looks in the mirror and recognizes themselves in it, rather than thinking that there’s another animal looking back at them, they pass the test and are considered self-aware.Several animals have passed this test, such as primates, Asian elephants, and bottlenose dolphins, among others. More recently, a study has shown that mice can also recognize themselves when they look in the mirror.The Experiment That Proved Mice Can Pass the Mirror TestTo figure out if mice can pass the mirror test, scientists put some white ink on the foreheads of black mice. Then, they let the mice look into a mirror. What they discovered was fascinating: the mice recognized themselves in the reflection and started grooming themselves once they realized that there was something on their head that shouldn’t be there.Also, if the mice didn’t realize that something was on their forehead (when black ink was used so it would match the color of their fur or when the spot of ink wasn’t large enough), they didn’t start grooming themselves. This shows that there was a reason the mice groomed their heads after looking in the mirror, and it was an attempt to clean themselves of the ink stain.In addition to looking at their behavior, the scientists also used gene expression mapping to see which neurons in the brain became activated when the animals saw themselves in the mirror.  Findings Shed Light on Self-Recognition in MiceThis research shows that mice may be self-aware, but there are some things to consider. For example, the mice who groomed themselves to remove the ink were already used to mirrors, while mice who weren’t familiar with mirrors didn’t groom themselves. Also, mice who were socially isolated didn’t groom themselves during the experiment with the mirror, unlike mice who lived with other mice that looked like them.There’s still more to discover and learn about these animals, so scientists are planning on doing more research in this area.  Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Latest Studies Find That Aging in Dogs Can Mirror Aging in Humans

In the United States alone, pet owners spend around $1,500 a year on  veterinary care. To be precise, people tend to spend more on dogs than on any other pets – up to 41% of Americans spend $2,000 per year caring about their cherished canine friends. Of course, this is all in the hopes that their pet reaches their senior age with minimal issues and that they get to spend as many years enjoying their company. While providing veterinary care is an important factor that contributes to a pet’s longevity, it’s not always easy to determine when a certain procedure or treatment will help prolong your pet’s life and not their suffering. By comparing the concept they labeled “frailty” in humans and in dogs, a team of researchers hopes that they can help owners make better decisions about their pet’s care.Scientists behind the “ Dog Aging Project” are studying how they could improve your dog’s quality of life for many years to come. The team from the University of Washington is conducting extensive research, based on dogs of all ages, in their attempts to determine how their quality of life is impacted as they age. Dr. Anya Gambino, one of the chief veterinarians working on the project, says: “There's a quantity of life. It's amazing to have a long life, but you always want to have quality of life." The team’s UW Biologist and the Co-Director of the Project, Daniel Promislow, quickly drew a parallel with humans. "Dogs get the same kinds of diseases that humans get. They also show the same kinds of frailty that we see in humans," he said.The so-called “frailty” of dogs, which is the object of the study, is already studied in humans. Dr. Promislow firmly believes that through this study, researchers can gain a much better understanding of life expectancies in dogs and potential disease risks as well. "We hope we'll be able to figure out the relationship between frailty and the disease," Promislow says. But what exactly is this “frailty”? Researchers describe it as "a complex syndrome associated with aging. Because it considers physical, mental and emotional changes associated with aging, it is a better indicator of the body’s condition and overall health than age alone.""If we can do that, we can help vets treat dogs earlier before those diseases are apparent and can also help dogs enjoy their later years to the best degree possible," said Promislow.The study is on a very grand scale and already enrolls over 46,000 dogs across the United States. What is best, researchers believe that humans can also benefit from this extensive study. "The other thing about aging in dogs is that aging in dogs looks a lot like aging in people," said Promislow. "What we learn about aging in dogs is going to help us learn about aging in people, as well."Hopefully, this would mean that many more dogs would get a chance to enjoy their golden years, right by their owner's side. "They provide us with so much unconditional love, joy, and humor," said Dr. Gambino. "We can do something for them that gives them the best chance for living a very happy life with us."

Scientists May Have Found a Better Way To Trim a Cat’s Nails

Trimming a cat’s nails is often a daunting affair for everyone involved. Most cats should have their nails trimmed every two to three weeks. Failing to do so leaves you and your furniture at the mercy of your kitty’s sharp claws.Specially designed to be smaller, cat nail clippers or scissors are commonly used to trim a cat’s nails, but they can be difficult to handle, especially if your cat doesn’t want to cooperate or is anxious. Additionally, there’s always a risk that you’ll end up scratched, bitten, and bleeding.This is where science can come in handy! Researchers from the University of California, Davis, are working with Sacramento SPCA to make nail trimming less stressful for cats and their owners. Jennifer Link, a Ph.D. student at the University of California, Davis, Animal Welfare Epi Lab, is working on a multistep protocol designed to desensitize the cats to handling and nail clipping. In mid-July, Link started to visit the Sacramento shelter five days a week for two hours to work on socializing rescued and surrendered cats to help them adjust to new people, situations, and environments. By the end of September, she had worked with more than 70 cats. “When people hear that I study cats, many ask if I can help them with nail trims,” said Link. According to Dan Marple, the animal welfare manager at the Sacramento Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, this research is vital to staff, donors, and volunteers because it can reduce the stress caused by nail trimming.“Any new protocols that increase the comfort and safe handling of the cats in our care will also improve their overall well-being and adoptability,” he added. Link’s research is promising because it incorporates cooperative care. This means that cats are allowed to decide how much they want to interact with the handler during the training process. Depending on their willingness to participate, the cats go through one of three scenarios with Link: a handling-only training protocol, a handling and nail-trimming protocol, or a control with no training and only a nail trim. Each interaction is recorded to be analyzed later. On the days when Link visits the shelter, the cats are removed from their cages and brought to a quiet room where Link is waiting, with a mat laid out before her. If a cat puts their front paws on the mat, they are given treats and cuddles. The idea is for cats to learn that Link interacts with them only when they put their paws on the mat. Once the cat leans this, Link proceeds with training protocols. Slowly, Link touches the cat’s legs, then the paws, and then the paws are gently squeezed. If the cat doesn’t resist, one nail is trimmed. The protocol builds on past steps and works up. When a cat goes through all the steps, they get a nail trim. If a cat doesn’t place their paws on the mat or rejects any step, Link stops the handling.“I think with cooperative care, it does seem to almost improve their trust in me,” Link explained. “They are more comfortable if we let them decide.”This research could make nail trimming at home much more comfortable for the cats and their owners. It can also decrease the number of visits to veterinary hospitals and clinics, where owners often seek help trimming their cats’ nails. The researchers still need to analyze the video sessions to finalize the protocol. And if the protocol is deemed helpful, they will share it with other shelters for more data.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Adopter Visits a Dog Every Day for 2 Months to Earn the Pet's Trust

Alva, a fearful dog who spent over 500 days at Austin Pets Alive! shelter has found a loving home thanks to an adopter who believed in her. According to Dr. Ellen Jefferson, a veterinarian and the CEO and president of Austin Pets Alive! (APA!), Alva first arrived at the shelter in 2019, as a puppy. Alva was transferred to APA! from another shelter after it was discovered that she had cerebellar hypoplasia. This congenital neurological condition affects the part of the brain that controls movement, leading to mobility issues. “We’re a shelter that generally takes animals from other shelters when they can’t afford long-term medical treatment,” said Jefferson, according to PEOPLE. The shelter quickly found a home for the young puppy, but problems emerged as Alva grew up.A common issue for dogs with severe mobility problems is that they don’t get out as much as healthy dogs. They spend most of their time inside a loving home with people who take good care of them. Unfortunately, these dogs miss a vital part of socialization as they aren’t exposed to new people, animals, and situations during puppyhood. As the home Alva grew up in became busier, she attempted to bite the people who came over for a visit. This type of fear aggression is common for dogs with mobility issues because they can’t get away. Sadly, Alva ended up back in the shelter because she became territorial, defensive, and fearful. While the shelter looked for a perfect adopter for Alva, the behavioral support team and volunteers worked with the pooch daily. “She got the best care she possibly could, with so many people taking her out every day,” Jefferson shared. “She had a wheelchair made for her.”Although Alva made immense progress with her mobility and behavioral issues, no one showed interest in adopting her for more than 500 days. Luckily, Alva wasn’t destined to stay in the shelter forever! Alva’s future changed when Joe Rotunda saw her on Instagram in July. Although he wasn’t looking for a new pet at that time, he immediately knew that he wanted to give Alva a loving home. “She shined. She had this almost tangible will,” Rotunda said. “I saw all these videos of Alva running, playing, and falling down. And every time she fell, she pulled herself back up. Every time a challenge presented itself, she did not go around it; she went over it. And I was very inspired.”It was love at first sight! Rotunda didn’t hesitate for a second, instead, he drove to APA! to schedule a meeting with Alva. “She was very wary of me. She was very nervous, concerned, and anxious,” said Rotunda about Alva’s initial reaction to him. “But, you could tell she was so loving and affectionate around the people that she knew.”To earn Alva’s trust, Rotunda kept coming back. That meant visiting the shelter every day for two months! “She needed someone who would not give up on her. And I never questioned that decision,” he explained.Over time, Alva who lounged and nipped at him at first, started to approach Rotunda and feel safe in his company. By October the APA! and Rotunda agreed it was time for Alva to spend the night outside the shelter.Before Alva arrived, Rotunda transformed his home to make it inviting and as comfortable as possible. He blocked a large section of the living room to make a private play area and added several crates to give Alva room to decompress.Alva arrived on Friday night, and when the APA! caretaker came to collect her the next day, it was obvious the dog wanted to stay. “She did not want to leave the house. She did not want to go back to APA. And she’s been here ever since.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

A Pennsylvania Dog Shocked Its Owners After Eating $4000 in Cash

A Pittsburg couple was shocked to discover that their dog Cecil decided to have the most expensive snack of his life, after wolfing down $4,000 in cash. According to Cecil’s owners, Clayton and Carrie Law, the seven-year-old goldendoodle is a well-behaved boy who has never really done anything bad before. The couple had withdrawn cash to do a home improvement project, but Cecil had other plans for the envelope full of money. Less than 30 minutes later, Cecil was caught devouring thousands of dollars. “I walked back into the room and then all this cash was on the ground. He’s just like this, standing there, and I’m like oh my gosh, he ate some of this money and was in shock. I yelled to Carrie ‘He ate the money, he ate the $4,000,’” said Clayton Law to CBS News. After the initial shock, the couple discovered that Cecil ate a lot of the bills, but that some were still on the floor, albeit torn up and chewed into pieces. Carrie and Clayton describe their pooch as laid back, weird, funny, and almost human-like, and say that he is typically more of a snuggly couch potato. “He doesn’t do many dog things, he doesn’t chew furniture or clothing, that’s why we were extra shocked when he decided to do this,” said Clayton Law. “He has never in his life tried to get anything from the counter, even coffee table. We could leave dinner and go to the kitchen and grab wine, and he would not touch the food, and he just doesn’t care. He just took this opportunity and ran with it,” said Carrie Law. Once the initial shock passed, the couple contacted their vet to see if the dog needed any treatment. Given the goldendoodle’s size, there was no risk of bowel obstruction and he only needed to be monitored at home. At first, Cecil seemed fine, but in the middle of the night, the Laws were awoken by the sound every dog owner knows - the retching of their dog about to vomit. “When you hear that, you immediately just react, so I jumped out of bed and just made sure that he didn’t throw up anywhere,” said Clayton. “And then I went to pick it up… and I realized there’s a lot of like half eaten and $100 bills and $50 bills here.”That night marked the start of the Law’s unfortunate mission of sifting through their dog’s vomit and poop in an attempt to recover some of their money. Luckily, the couple was able to piece together most of the bills after carefully washing and sorting all the pieces back together. “There we are at the utility sink washing this shitty money, yelling ‘Yay! Yes! We got one!’ It smelled so bad,” Carries confessed. After piecing together as many bills as they could salvage, the couple managed to recoup $3,550. According to Carrie, the bank was really nice about it and told them that these things happen all the time. “They said it actually happens quite a bit because money just picks up so many scents, especially if it’s used in the food industry. I guess dogs pick up on that - they have such a good sense of smell - and something about it just drove him crazy.”Almost a month after the incident, Cecil is doing fine and is still a good boy. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Blue Ridge Beef Recalls Kitten and Puppy Food Due to Bacteria

Blue Ridge Beef, one of the foremost pet food companies in North Carolina, decided to recall their 2-pound kitten and puppy food because of a serious potential threat of listeria and salmonella in their kibble. The pet food in question was distributed to locations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.Unfortunately, North Carolina Department of Agriculture discovered a serious issue when analyzing their product, realizing that one lot of each of the food products was positive for salmonella and listeria, on December 15th. This included kitten food lots “N24 1114-N24 1224”, of 2-lb logs of “Kitten Grind” (UPC 8 54298 00101 6), and “Kitten Mix” (UPC UPC 8 54298 00143 6). Also included was the “Puppy Mix” (UPC 8 54298 00169 6).The action was swift to pull these products from the shelves, as both listeria and salmonella can be very dangerous to pets who consume the contaminated food. It can also be harmful to humans who touch the food as well, especially pregnant women and children. Pets who get infected can suffer from vomiting, fever, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite, so if you notice any of these symptoms and your pet has been eating the food that is now recalled, make sure to take them to a vet for treatment ASAP.Luckily, the Blue Ridge Beef company announced that so far it has not received any reports of illnesses that are connected to this recall of food. Likewise, the company is not facing any legal action because of the recall. Pet owners who purchased this food are encouraged to contact Blue Ridge Beef company at  blueridgebeefnc@yahoo.com for a full refund. Consumers can also get in touch with Steven Lea, from 8 am. to 5:30 pm. ET Monday-Friday at (704) 880-4500. 

Poll Reveals Biggest Pet Peeves of Dog Owners in the U.S.

We love our dogs endlessly, but that doesn’t mean they don’t occasionally get under our skin. Even the most beloved pets come with a little “extra baggage,” introducing unique challenges and hurdles in our lives.If you have ever had to cancel plans because you couldn’t find a pet sitter or call into work to take your pet to the emergency vet because they ate something they shouldn’t, you understand.Of course, they are worth the effort!But what is the biggest annoyance faced by pet parents? This is the question that Forbes Advisor set out to answer with a recent nationwide poll. They surveyed 10,000 dog parents to uncover their biggest pet peeves, both nationally and state-by-state.Dog parents across the country revealed their biggest frustration was finding a dog sitter when traveling, as shared by 37.3% of those surveyed. This was also the top in 43 states and ranked among the top three responses in all 50.This was followed by:Finding dog-friendly hotels (23.6%)Having to walk/exercise their dog (23.3%)The cost of owning a dog (22.9%)Excessive barking (19.8%)Excessive shedding (17.5%)The answer highlights the importance of finding and creating a list of trusted pet sitters before you need one. This ensures that you’re covered not only when making travel plans but also in the event of an emergency.There are many ways to find a trusted pet sitter. Consider asking your veterinarian, groomer, or friends/family for recommendations. You can also check websites like Fetch and Rover for pet sitters in your area or browse marketplace-style listings on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or Kijiji.Just make sure you are doing your due diligence. Don’t leave your beloved pet with a complete stranger. Instead, take time to ask questions, check reviews, and verify credentials.At the bottom of the list, the least reported annoyance was “when my dog jumps up on/lays on furniture or beds,” reported by only 5.32% of dog owners. Delaware and Missouri were the states where this was most often listed as one of their top annoyances, while those in New Hampshire, North Carolina, and Rhode Island reported it the least.Additionally, the following answers were at the bottom of the list:Having to take their dog to the groomer (7.55%)Excessive drooling/slobber (7.56%)Checking their dog for ticks (7.58%)Their dog taking over the bed (7.72%)Are you interested in a state-by-state breakdown? Forbes Advisor also shared a chart highlighting the top three pet peeves for each state, giving you a more detailed look at the opinions of other dog parents in your area.Overall, the survey provides a fascinating insight into the struggles faced by dog parents. For many, it may serve as a reminder that pet ownership isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Adding a dog to your family is a commitment, one that requires a willingness to make changes or sacrifices to meet their needs.If you occasionally struggle with frustration related to these changes, you’re not alone. Thousands of pet parents across the country also feel this way!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

The Unseen Threat: Dangers of Secondhand Smoke for Your Pet

Most people are well aware of the dangers of smoking. They understand what smoking does to their bodies and know the potential health risks of lighting up a cigarette. But did you know that exposure to secondhand smoke may have serious health consequences for your pets?It’s no secret that smoking is bad for people. In the United States, between 80% to 90% of lung cancer deaths are linked to cigarette smoking. Secondhand smoking is also linked with an increased risk of other forms of cancer, such as breast and colorectal cancer, heart and respiratory disease.Studies have shown that more than 50% of bladder cancer cases in humans are caused by cigarette smoking. A recent study involving Scottish terriers found a link between cigarette smoke exposure and bladder cancer. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in dogs, and many pooches are diagnosed with some form of this terrible disease. Although many factors may predispose a pet to cancer, research shows that passive smoking is a main danger.Scientists from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Purdue University discovered that Scottish terriers who were exposed to secondhand smoke at home were six times more likely to develop bladder cancer than those who were not routinely exposed to smoke.Passive smoking is also linked with nasal cancer in dogs. This type of cancer is often diagnosed in long-nosed breeds such as collies, greyhounds, and borzois. The increased surface area in their nasal canals traps inhaled particles, allowing carcinogens from tobacco smoke to accumulate in the nasal mucus. As a result, long-nosed dogs are at a greater risk of developing tumors in their snouts. On the other hand, brachycephalic or short-nosed dog breeds, such as pugs and French bulldogs, are more likely to develop lung cancer. Their short noses aren’t as effective at trapping inhaled particles and allow more carcinogens to reach the lungs.Being exposed to smoke increases the risk that your dog will develop cancer, but that’s not all. Pooches that live with smokers are more likely to develop asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory problems.Dogs aren’t the only pets to suffer the consequences of inhaling secondhand smoke on a daily basis. Cats, birds, and small critters like guinea pigs and rabbits are also at risk.Cats that live with smokers are more likely to develop asthma and lung cancer. Felines that inhale secondhand smoke regularly also have a higher incidence of malignant lymphoma.  Studies have found higher nicotine concentrations in the hair of cats living with smokers than those living in smoke-free homes. The same is true for dogs living with smokers, no matter whether their owners smoked inside or outside. Cats are famous for being fastidious groomers, but licking the fur puts them at risk of ingesting even more toxic particles from secondhand smoke than simply inhaling them. Felines that groom excessively can develop oral tumors from licking toxic particles off their fur.Secondhand smoke alone isn't responsible for all health problems seen in cats and dogs. Diet, genetics, lifestyle, and exposure to other potentially toxic substances in the environment combined affect the pet’s overall health.Owners concerned with the well-being of their four-legged companions should be more aware of the air quality in their homes and make necessary lifestyle changes.Choosing to smoke outside can minimize some risks associated with exposure to secondhand smoke. Improving ventilation, opening the windows, and using air filters can help too. However, it’s important to note that even a low exposure to secondhand smoke can be harmful to your four-legged companion.Quitting smoking is hard, but knowing how secondhand smoke affects your pet’s health may motivate you to put down that cigarette once and for all!Join the PetGuiJoin the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Newfoundland Dogs Deliver Your Tree at This US Christmas Tree Farm

“It’s a great way to expose people to the joy of Christmas but also teach people about Newfoundland dogs,” explained Lindsay Eshelman when asked about her family farm. “They’re big, and sometimes people are scared of big dogs, and we want to show that they’re gentle giants.”The Esheman family’s love of the breed is evident, with four Newfoundland dogs currently among their ranks. But they didn’t want to stop there. By inviting Newfies from far and wide to come together, they have rightfully earned the title “The Newfoundland Farm.” The event has become a big part of what they do, a tradition they excitedly look forward to year after year.“We are a destination for these dogs,” Eshelman said. “We actually have had people drive all the way from Vermont, Maine, Ohio – those are ten-plus hour-long drives.”Are you interested in joining the festivities next year, but your dog doesn’t quite fit the breed? Don’t worry! Their Facebook states that all dogs are welcome, not just Newfies. If your dog isn’t keen on public spaces, that’s okay too! Dog lovers are welcome to join in with or without a dog. There will be plenty of adorable pups eager to enjoy your attention.So, start planning your trip to Pennsylvania next year to participate in Newfoundland Day and make some unique holiday memories.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Study Finds That Cats Have Hundreds of Facial Expressions

If you’ve lived with cats for any length of time, you know that they express themselves in a variety of ways, and their faces can tell you a lot. Yet, there are some people who think that cats are expressionless, especially when compared to other animals. Well, science has once again come through to prove that cats are social and communicative; you just have to know how to read them.

Are Dog Bars the New Dog Park?

Socializing with other pet parents over a cold one, just got easier!

How Can I Reduce My Dog's Environmental Pawprint?

In today’s day and age, with the climate and environment at great risk, we want to do anything we can to minimize our own carbon footprint and the damage we do to Mother Nature. Of course, our pets also have an environmental impact – and eco-conscious pet parents are always on the lookout for simple ways to reduce their pet’s carbon footprint (or pawprint if we’re being precise). Luckily, there are a lot of small but important steps that you can take in order to make your pet’s lifestyle and care much more eco-friendly without compromising the quality of life they are used to. Here's where to start if you want to become a more eco-friendly, sustainable dog owner!5 Ways You Can Reduce Your Dog's Environmental PawprintCaring for your pet can be challenging, and that’s no secret. However, the things that make it easier are not often very good for the environment, and can make your pet’s environmental pawprint significant. Luckily, it does not take too much of a change to turn that completely around and start improving that environmental impact, day by day. What follows are just a few of the basic steps you can take as a caring and responsible owner.#1 Be Responsible About Your Pet’s Waste Disposal:

Dog Ran A Mile to Her Doggy Daycare Center for Help After A Car Crash

A frightened dog ran a mile through heavy traffic to its doggy daycare to get help after she and her owner were in a car crash. Melisa Fickel, the dog’s owner, said that Aries, a three-year-old pit bull mix has always been a smart pooch. The pup, who was adopted in 2020, learns tricks quickly and loves to play in the park. Aries recently got a chance to show exactly how smart she is. The pooch and her owner were heeded to a local park in Detroit, Michigan when another car hit them from behind. Luckily, no one was injured, and both vehicles sustained only minor damages. However, the car accident spooked Aries, prompting her to jump out of the car’s window and run off into traffic. “I had the windows down because Aries likes to hang her head out,” said Fickel to a local TV station. “As soon as there was that smack, as soon as I felt and heard it, almost instantaneously, she was out the window.”Fearing the worst, Fickel was concerned about her pup’s safety. While dealing with the police and her insurance company, her mind was preoccupied with all the ways Aries could be in danger,“I can’t really think about it because so many things could have happened,” she added.What Fickel didn’t know is that Aries ran about a mile down the road, to the safest place she could be in - the Hounds Town Metro Detroid, the doggy daycare she frequently visits. Security footage recorded at the daycare showed Aries arriving at the center during the staff’s noon break when employees usually shut down the lobby to clean and catch up with other tasks. According to Dominic Pace, the daycare’s general manager, he and another employee were in the lobby when they saw something outside. “We noticed something dart past the front door,” said Pace. “It was like a black blur that just went past.”Thinking that they might have seen a dog, Pace went outside and found Aries standing by the sidewalk leading to the daycare’s front door. The pooch was panting and looked scared. Once inside the daycare, Aries has calmed down. Pace thought the dog looked familiar, so he called Travis Odgen, the daycare’s owner. At first, Odgen thought that it might be a stray dog, but as he got a better look, he instantly recognized Aries. “I was like, ‘Oh, that looks like Aries’ and then she walks closer and I’m like ‘That is Aries!’” he said. “I start to pet her and she gives me kisses, and she rolls over for me, recognizing me.”Although happy to see Aries, Odgen was confused to see the pooch without her owner. He immediately called Fickel to find out what was happening and to tell her that her dog was in the daycare.Everything made sense once Odgen learned about the fender bender and Aries’ escape. He assured the pup’s owner that she was safe and sound, minus a small cut on her paw. The staff promised to look after the pup until her owner sorted out everything and was able to pick her up.According to Pace, Aries is a very friendly and sweet dog who loves to flop on her back, expecting belly rubs from anyone nearby. “Dogs do have an intuition of knowing where they are and where they can be safe,” he said. “She knows that she’s safe here, that she has people here that will take care of her and dogs are pretty intuitive when it comes to that kind of thing.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Are Dogs Smarter than Cats?

The rivalry between cats and dogs is an age-old thing. Many pet owners are divided in their affections, as some adore kitties, but others are strictly doggo lovers. And this rivalry poses an intriguing question – could there be a difference between cats and dogs? While both are cuddly and loveable, they are inevitably different. So, could it be possible that  dogs are smarter than cats, or vice versa? This is a popular question in the scientific world, and many tried answering it. Let’s see what they came up with.Are Dogs Smarter than Cats? For ages, the debate on the rivalry between cats and dogs has been ongoing. Ultimately, however, it all depends on how you define “smart”. Dogs are often loved for their obedience, their ability to be trained and follow commands, their unwavering loyalty, and their excellent guardian traits. Cats, on the other hand, are known for their independence, their adaptability and problem-solving skills, their free and restless spirit, and their cuddly nature. So, as we can see, while generally different in personalities, both of these animals possess certain cognitive skills – but is one smarter than the other?Recent studies have revealed that both dogs and cats possess unique cognitive abilities suited to their respective lifestyles and evolutionary histories. Meaning, they are completely different animals. Dogs, for example, originated from domesticated canines, far, far back in history. They were bred over thousands of years to work alongside humans, protect flocks, help with hunting, and guard homes. This, in turn, has likely influenced their ability to understand and communicate with us, and to be so devoted as pets. But cats are different. In stark contrast to doggos, cats have retained more of their wild instincts, allowing them to thrive in a variety of environments and situations.All of this means that you can’t really compare the intelligence of a cat and that of a dog. It’s like comparing apples and oranges – it just doesn’t go. Each animal excels in different areas and possesses different strengths. It's more accurate to appreciate the unique qualities of each species rather than trying to determine which one is "smarter."But even so, scientists tried to reach a decisive conclusion. They studied both cats and dogs and ultimately reached an answer - at least, scientifically speaking. Their research shows that dogs are smarter than cats! Some of you might find this answer surprising but don’t raise a revolt just yet. Cats are super intelligent even so. It’s just that they are likely not as smart as some dogs are. The secret is in “smartness” itself. Dogs are intelligent in their own way. They are generally more reliant on humans for problem-solving tasks, but they are adept at learning from observation and experience. They can also be trained to perform a wide range of tasks, from simple tricks to complex behaviors, such as guiding the visually impaired or detecting explosives. Cats, however, are natural hunters and possess excellent problem-solving skills. They are known for their agility, stealth, and ability to strategize when stalking their prey. In a domestic setting, cats demonstrate problem-solving abilities when navigating obstacles, finding hiding spots, and even manipulating objects to access food or toys. So, both of them have different positive traits and different types of intelligence. But it could be that dogs, with their ability to learn and obey commands, are just a tad bit smarter.

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