Should I Feed My Dog In a Raised Dish?

by Britt

Published: October 6th, 2024

Photo credit: KAZLOVA IRYNA / Shutterstock.com

The use of an elevated feeder may appear, at the surface, to be a matter of design and aesthetics. But your choice of feeding bowl can significantly impact your dog’s health and well-being more than you might think. The height of your dog’s feeding bowls can influence their comfort and digestion, among other things. Elevated feeding bowls, in particular, have gained popularity among pet owners in recent years.

But is an elevated feeder the right choice for your dog? Should you be making a change to your dog’s mealtime routine and setup?

In this guide, I’ll share the potential benefits of elevated feeding bowls and what you should consider when deciding whether a raised feeder is suitable for your dog. I will explain how these bowls can improve your dog’s posture, aid digestion, and reduce joint strain. Plus, I’ll address the potential drawbacks of using a raised dish to help you make an informed decision for your canine companion.

Are Raised Dishes Good for Dogs?

This has long been a debate in the pet world. Why is the discussion of raised feeders so polarizing? The research simply isn’t there to give a concrete answer as to whether they benefit our dogs or put them at risk. Furthermore, with the information that is available, experts say the answer will vary from dog to dog. Some pups will benefit greatly from using these feeders, while others may be at higher risk for trouble.

Deciding whether or not to use a raised dish starts with learning the pros and cons of these products. I also recommend discussing your dog’s unique needs and risk factors with your veterinarian. This will allow you to make an educated decision.

With that in mind, let’s break down the benefits and possible disadvantages…

Benefits of Raised Feeders for Dogs

Why should you consider using a raised dish? In some situations, elevating your dog’s dish could make mealtime more accessible, more comfortable, and even cleaner… Here are a few of the most common benefits and reasons people reference for choosing to switch to a raised dish:

Reduced Strain When Eating

Arguably, the most important reason to consider using a raised feeder (and the reason that leads veterinarians to recommend their use) is how they limit the strain associated with bending down to reach a dish sitting on the ground. Stretching their neck down to a traditional dog bowl may not seem like a big deal for many dogs, especially smaller or toy breeds who are already close to the ground. However, for others, it can put a lot of strain on the body trying to reach down.

This benefit is most associated with dogs who are living with:

Age-related limited mobility
Arthritis
Spinal conditions
Orthopedic conditions or injuries
Joint disorders or injuries

Keep the Mess Contained

Do you have a dog that makes a big mess when eating or drinking? We have all met at least one dog that leaves behind a puddle after quenching their thirst. Many raised feeders are designed to incorporate features that keep the mess contained. This includes preventing spills and trapping any food/water to keep it from landing on your floor.

Stop Chasing the Dish

Whether your dog struggles with eating while their dish slides across the floor or has a habit of pawing at their dish, knocking it around the room, a raised feeder can help to prevent the dish from moving. This movement can complicate mealtime either by creating frustration as they try to eat or by creating a mess (going back to the previous point).

There are no-slip bowl designs that can help to address this problem. However, a raised feeder that securely holds the dish in place up and away from your dog’s paws and any slippery floors will eliminate the problem entirely in most cases.

Possible Drawbacks of Using Raised Dishes

Once believed to prevent bloat by adjusting the position a dog is eating at, further study revealed the opposite may be true.

Bloat, or gastric dilation-volvulus (GDV), is a potentially life-threatening situation where the stomach fills with food, fluid, or gas and flips or twists. This rotation cuts off the entrance and exit of the stomach, preventing the contained substances from continuing to travel through the digestive system and cutting off blood flow to the rest of the body (including vital organs). It is a life-threatening emergency.

So, the big question is – Do raised dog dishes cause bloat? The answer is maybe.

A study out of Purdue University suggested that large and giant dog breeds may increase their risk of bloat when eating from a raised feeding bowl. Of the dogs in the study, approximately 52% of GDV cases were attributed to the feeder. However, many experts question elements of the study, saying it wasn’t an accurate representation as it failed to account for other potential facts. For example, the pet parents feeding with a raised dish in the study were those who chose to do so rather than assigning their use and establishing a control group. This means there could be other related lifestyle factors to consider.

Further research is needed to finally answer this question once and for all.

Photo credit: sophiecat / Shutterstock.com

How to Choose the Best Raised Feeder for Your Pup

If, after reading through the pros and cons, you believe a raised feeder may be the right choice for your dog, it’s time to start shopping. There are many different styles, sizes, and features to consider. Here are a few factors to consider that will help you narrow down your list of options:

Size/Height

The first and arguably most important factor to consider is the height of the raised feeder relative to your dog. When a raised feeder is sized appropriately, your dog can stand in front of it and eat without stretching their neck or contorting their body.

If a feeder is too low, your dog will still have to reach down to the dish, contradicting the purpose of elevating it. On the other end of the spectrum, a feeder that is too tall will require your dog to strain their neck, reaching up to get to their meal. The added strain and effort required can cause unnecessary pain and discomfort in both situations.

Material

Raised feeders are available in a wide range of materials, including plastic, wood, ceramic, and stainless steel. There is no one “best” material. Instead, you will need to consider the durability, ease of cleaning, appearance, and personal preferences – including both your preference and your dog’s.

This may involve balancing these considerations. For example, a stainless steel feeder is easier to clean and disinfect, but some dogs are bothered by the reflection of stainless steel and will refuse to eat out of it. Others may be okay with the stainless steel dish as long as the feeder is another non-reflective material.

Stability

Consider how frustrating eating from a dish could be if the dish is constantly moving or swaying as you’re trying to eat. You likely wouldn’t enjoy that, and neither will your dog. The ideal feeder will hold the dish in a secure and stable way, even if your dog is bumping against it while eating.

If you are shopping from your local pet store, consider testing the stability by pushing on the feeder at different angles. If you are shopping online, you can still test the models in-store to understand how different styles of feeders will perform.

Ease of Cleaning

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends pet parents clean their pet food dishes after every meal. Yet, experts warn, most don’t follow this advice. As a result, your dog may be exposed to bacteria and other contaminants. To make it easier to properly clean and disinfect your dog’s dishes, choose a design limiting the nooks and crannies where bacteria can be trapped or challenging to clean. The best designs can be easily disassembled.

Added Features

Some raised feeders offer unique features or elements that may better address your dog’s needs. For example, if your dog tends to eat their food too quickly, you will want to choose a feeder that either incorporates a slow feeder or uses standard dog dish sizes so you can convert it to a slow feeder yourself. Other features you may be interested in include mess shields around the back, adjustable height/width sizing, incorporated lick mats, and more.

Aesthetics

Of course, being a pet parent doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice our dream home aesthetic. With so many raised feeders on the market, there are options to fit every style – modern, rustic, industrial, art deco, bohemian… you name it! After settling on the functional factors mentioned above, look at the remaining feeders on your list and consider how they will fit with your home décor.

Our Go-To Raised Feeder: Neater Feeder Deluxe

While we don’t currently use a raised feeder in our house with our two pups, our former pups did use one throughout their senior years. Both Daviana and Indiana were larger dogs (a German Shepherd mix and a Flat-Coated Retriever mix), and bending down to reach their food dish became uncomfortable and challenging when they started to experience age-related aches and pains. That was when we knew that we needed to make a change.

We tried several different feeds to find the right fit for our house. However, we were quickly sold after introducing the Neater Feeder Deluxe Model!

Indiana was always a messy eater. We used to joke that he was washing our floors when he drank. This particular feeder had several features that helped to contain the mess. The raised splash-proof barrier behind the dishes protects your walls and furniture. Meanwhile, the feeder includes a drain and catch basin to separate spilled food and water, making cleaning easy.

The Neater Feeder is available in 3 different sizes (small, medium, and large), plus there are optional leg extensions to customize the height further. They hold standard stainless steel dishes, but the company also offers a slow feeder model.

Final Thoughts: Raised Feeders for Dogs

Raised feeders can be a great option for dogs with mobility issues, joint pain, or those who tend to make a significant mess during mealtime. However, the jury is still out on whether using a raised dish increases the risk of bloat in large or giant breed dogs, like Saint Bernards, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Great Danes.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether or not a raised feeder is right for your dog.

Instead, it’s your job as a responsible pet parent to weigh the pros and cons, considering your dog’s individual needs and risk factors. If you decide to use a raised feeder, make sure to choose one that is the right size and height for your dog. Consider functional aspects like stability, durability, and ease of cleaning to find the best fit for your dog and your home.

Remember, If you are unsure whether to switch to a raised feeder, your veterinarian is always your best resource for personalized advice on your dog’s health and well-being.

Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Britt

Britt Kascjak is a proud pet mom, sharing her heart (and her home) with her “pack” which includes her husband John, their 2 dogs – Lucifer and Willow – and their 2 cats – Pippen and Jinx. She has been active in the animal rescue community for over 15 years, volunteering, fostering and advocating for organizations across Canada and the US. In her free time, she enjoys traveling around the country camping, hiking, and canoeing with her pets.

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What Should I Do If My Dog is Afraid of Nail Trims?

The dreaded nail clippers – a source of stress and occasional doggy drama in our home as well as for many dog parents. You see, our youngest pup, Lucifer, and I have been on quite the journey to conquer his fear of nail trimming. If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation, you know the struggle all too well!But fear not, because in this article, I’m sharing our personal tale of progress and a toolkit of tips we’ve picked up along the way to help overcome your dog’s fear of nail clipping.So, let’s swap nail-trimming anxiety for confidence and cooperation, one paw at a time.Why Does My Dog Hate Nail Trims?The first step to overcoming a fear of nail trims is understanding why the sight of nail clippers is a source of anxiety for your dog. After all, the clippers themselves aren’t frightening or intimidating.For many dogs, the fear of having their nails cut is rooted in a desire to protect their paws. This is a survival instinct, as they need their paws to survive in the wild, both to escape predators and be able to catch food. They haven’t been taught that the process of having their nails cut or their paws handled isn’t going to cause harm.If your dog was previously okay with having their nails trimmed and suddenly changes their mind and lashes out when you try, this is a sign of trouble. Have you recently cut your dog`s nail and accidentally nicked the quick of the nail? If so, your dog may associate the experience with the pain and discomfort they felt at that moment.This could also indicate that your dog feels pain in their leg or paw. Watch for other signs of distress or discomfort, like lameness, limping, or excessively licking the area. If you suspect your dog is in pain or if your dog has shown a behavior change that you can’t otherwise explain, contact your veterinarian. They can run the tests necessary to help diagnose the problem and recommend ways to provide effective pain relief.For us, with Lucifer, we are overcoming a reaction due to previous pain. He suffered injuries to his front paws before he was rescued and adopted out to us as a puppy. While we have worked with specialists to help him heal and move on from these injuries, he is still more protective of his paws and dislikes having them handled. What Happens if You Wait Too Long to Cut Dog Nails?Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed and cared for is an integral part of grooming. How often you need to trim their nails will vary, depending on their breed, age, and lifestyle. Some dogs will naturally wear down their nails from walking and running on rough surfaces, as they would in the wild, while others don’t engage in these activities frequently enough to keep up with nail growth.When a dog’s nails become overgrown, they interfere with their ability to stand and walk properly, reducing traction and potentially causing injuries in their feet and tendons. This is because the nails contact the floor before their paw pads. Over time, this can also lead to long-term injuries, deformities in the paw or leg, or arthritis. This can also cause older dogs to slip and fall due to losing traction and unsteadiness on their feet.

Should I Bathe My Dog During Winter?

Should your pet forego bubbly baths when the temperatures drop or should you bathe your pooch regularly all year long? There’s no universal answer to this question as situations can be wildly different from one pet or the other – how harsh is the climate you live in, would you bathe your pooch in a well-heated bathroom or not, how thick is their coat, and so on. All of these factors will influence the answer you’re given! To find out what’s the verdict for your own pooch when it comes to winter bathing, read on.Should I Bathe My Dog During Winter?The fact that it’s cold outside doesn’t have to mean your four-legged bestie has to smell funky for weeks on end – at least not in most cases. You can bathe your dog in the winter as long as you follow some ground rules that are meant to ensure your dog's well-being. Here’s what you need to know:#1 Don’t Do It Too OftenDogs don't need bathing as frequently as we do (duh), so if your dog isn't visibly dirty or smelly, you should be able to extend the time between baths to a couple of weeks. Overbathing can strip essential oils from your dog's skin, which can lead to dryness and irritation, so too much bathing isn’t good either. You can probably get through the winter with just one or two baths.#2 Keep The Water ToastyEnsure that the water you use for the bath is warm, not hot. Hot water can dry out your dog’s skin, so don’t be tempted to overly increase the water temperature just because the weather is cold outside. Of course, you should also make sure the bathing area is warm, and have towels ready to dry your dog quickly.#3 Fast Drying Is Key 

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Some dogs have them long and droopy, others short and pointy – but whichever way they’re built, ears need to be cleaned! Of course, dog ears are much different than human ears, and they can accumulate dirt surprisingly fast, which is why it will be your job to keep them spotless at all times. Otherwise, the gunk and the dirt can lead to a whole range of problems that can be difficult to deal with – not to mention extremely painful for your pet.There’s no doubt that you need to include ear cleaning in your pet’s “beauty routine”, but just how often do you have to do it? Here’s all that you need to know about dog ear issues and how frequently – and when – you should clean them. How Often Should I Clean My Dog's Ears?Of course, the frequency with which you should clean your dog's ears depends on several major factors, including your dog's breed, ear shape, and any pre-existing ear conditions. In general, most dogs do not require any super frequent ear cleaning, and overcleaning can actually be harmful. The easiest way to go about this is “as needed”. One of the common reasons to clean a dog's ears is if they appear dirty or have a buildup of wax or debris. Check your dog's ears regularly for signs of dirt, discharge, redness, odor, or excessive wax. If you notice any of these issues, it's time to clean their ears. For dogs prone to ear issues, however, such as breeds with floppy ears ( Cocker Spaniel,  Basset Hound, etc), frequent swimmers, or those with a history of ear infections, you may need to clean their ears more often. This could range from once a week to once a month, depending on their individual needs. Furthermore, if your dog loves to swim, make sure to dry their ears thoroughly after each swim session. Moisture in the ear can create a conducive environment for ear infections. Remember that all sorts of critters live in water, and can enter your dog’s ear. That is why good cleaning and a thorough wipe after each swim is important and helps keep their ears healthy and clean.In addition to regular cleaning, you should be on the lookout for signs of ear problems in your dog, such as frequent shaking of the head, scratching at the ears, redness, swelling, foul odor, or discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian before attempting to clean the ears. Catching issues early can prevent them from becoming more severe, so it’s important to regularly check and clean your dog’s ears, no matter their age, size, or breed. Sometimes, of course, it's best to leave ear cleaning to the professionals. Your veterinarian or a groomer can clean your dog's ears safely and effectively, especially if your dog has a history of ear infections or if the ears are very dirty. If you are ever unsure of how to go about the cleaning process, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. They can provide specific recommendations based on your dog's health and breed. 

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Can You Tame a Hamster?

With their adorable miniature size and curious eyes, it is no wonder that hamsters have become popular pets. But don’t let their size fool you… These little guys can be a lot to handle. Realizing that their adorable little pocket pet is prone to biting, many new hamster parents have one key question: Can you tame a hamster? Is it possible to build a close bond and relationship with this new tiny friend? The answer is yes! With patience and a few simple techniques, you can build the trust needed for your hamster to not only be comfortable being held but to enjoy it. Keep reading to discover the secrets of training a hamster, from creating the ideal environment to offering tasty treats. Start building a solid relationship and special memories with your hamster today. Do Hamsters Like to be Held? While I wish I could give you a black-and-white answer, the truth is that it depends. Just as some dogs love to be held while others are more independent, the same can be said about hamsters. Some hamsters are overly affectionate and love being given that kind of attention and physical affection. Others may be more resistant. This could be because they are nervous about being held and haven’t been tamed, or they have a more independent personality and simply prefer to be left alone. There is no way to know if your pet will warm up to being held without putting the time into taming them and seeing how they respond. Pay careful attention to your hamster’s body language. If you are working through everything outlined below and they still aren’t interested in being held for any length of time, they may be trying to tell you that it just isn’t their cup of tea. Do Hamster Bites Hurt? This is a common concern among new hamster parents, especially if you are considering a hamster for your child. Like most rodents, hamsters have little teeth that aren’t likely going to do much damage during a bit. However, the lack of lasting damage doesn’t mean it won’t hurt – especially if the one on the receiving end is a young child. Luckily, hamster bites can easily be prevented with a combination of boundaries to keep children safe and training to build trust and acceptance with your hamster. How Do Hamsters Show Affection? Learning to read your pet’s body language is the key to opening the door to communication. This means familiarizing yourself with the signs that they are happy and comfortable as well as the signs they are stressed or anxious. If your hamster is comfortable around you, you may see them stretch and yawn as if tired. This is their way of telling you that they are relaxed. When they stop to groom themselves, they are comfortable and confident enough in their surroundings that they can stop nervously monitoring their surroundings and focus on something else. Hamsters who have bonded with their people learn to recognize their scent and voice. When you reach into their cage to bring them out, a tame and affectionate hamster may come to you happily rather than being reactive or trying to escape. However, this isn’t always true, as some happy, tame hamsters are also shy. You know your pet best.

Georgia Non-Profit Gives Shelter Dogs a Second Chance as Police K9s

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Why Is My Dog Shaking?

Shaking and shivering in dogs is something that most owners notice at least once in their dog’s lifetime. It can seem like a random thing, and in most cases, people dismiss it as a simple “side effect” of colder temperatures. However, chilly weather isn’t always the culprit for dog trembling – sometimes there are other reasons for this, ranging from expressing emotions to signaling health issues. So how are you to know what exactly is causing your dog to shake – is there a way to discern between harmless causes and those that could mean it’s time to visit a vet? Here’s everything you need to know about possible reasons for shaking in dogs and how to react when your dog starts shivering and trembling out of nowhere.Why Is My Dog Shaking?Dog behavior is a vast topic – so is their body language. If you were hoping that when a dog shakes, it means one particular thing, you’ll be disappointed. Dog shaking can communicate a range of different things and there are various possible explanations for this behavior – here are just a few of the most common ones.#1 Your Dog is ColdAs we said, cold and low temperatures can cause shivering and shaking. Just like humans, dogs may shiver when cold. If they're exposed to chilly temperatures, they might shiver to generate heat. This is a natural response. Of course, if you live in an area with a colder climate and your pet doesn’t have a thick double coat, you should get them a warm winter coat that will keep them insulated and prevent loss of body heat.

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

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

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Therapy dog Beacon is a key staff member for the USA Gymnastics team.

Study Reveals Dogs Understand Us Better if We Speak Slower

Are you trying to train your pup but feel like there is a communication breakdown? Do you worry that the language barrier could keep you from connecting and allowing you to be on the same page? While there is still a lot of study being done about how much of our spoken languages a dog can understand (or even speak with the rise of the talking buttons), a new study has revealed that the speed you speak may have a direct impact on their ability to comprehend what you are asking. The study was conducted by Eloise Deaux and her colleagues out of the University of Geneva in Switzerland. They analyzed the vocal sounds of 30 dogs and 27 humans across five languages, tracking their speech rate and the corresponding brain responses. It revealed that humans and dogs connect and respond best to very different speech tempos. In analyzing the neural responses of the two, the researchers found that dogs focus on slower rhythms while humans focus more when the rhythm is faster. As a result of this, humans generally talk much faster than their canine counterparts. According to the research, the average human speech rate is approximately four syllables per second. In comparison, the dogs studied would bark, whine, and growl at an average rate of two vocalizations per second. “What’s further interesting,” the authors of the study wrote, “is that while dogs use slow rhythm to process speech and contrary to popular beliefs, they need both content and prosody to successfully comprehend it.” ( Prosody: The rhythm, melody, and intonation used in speech and language. This refers to the speed at which you speak and the changing tone of your voice throughout your conversation.)What does this mean for you as a dog parent? Changing the speed at which you’re speaking isn’t going to magically make your dog understand your spoken language. Although, we wish it would. How much easier would it be if our dogs could understand us or reply with clear, vocal answers? It would solve SO many challenges we face in our lives together! However, understanding how your dog processes vocal communication can help you better connect with them by adjusting your speech to set our canine companions up for success. Whether you are trying to teach a new puppy basic obedience skills like sit, stay, and down or working on more advanced trick training, you can improve your chances of success by speaking slower when giving commands. The next time you kick off a training session, take a moment to take a deep breath and ensure you feel calm and relaxed. Trying to work with your dog when you are highly stressed or anxious not only increases the chance that you will feel frustrated if they are struggling to pick something up, but it can also cause you to speak faster, further reducing the chance your dog is going to understand what you are asking of them. Instead, focus on making your training sessions fun and relaxed, focusing on quality time together and strengthening that all-too-important human-animal bond. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can A Dog's Tooth Abscess Heal On Its Own?

Dental hygiene is very important, both for us and for our pets. You might not know this, but a dog’s teeth are very important for their health as dental issues pave the road for all sorts of health problems down the road. The first thing to go is their diet and digestion, and from there, it is all a steep path downwards. It is because of this that every owner’s task is to keep their dog’s chompers in pristine conditions. Fail to do so, and issues can soon begin appearing.Of course, there are various issues that could be the result of subpar oral hygiene, but one of the worst dental problems for dogs is a tooth abscess. If you’ve noticed something that looks like an abscess and wonder if you can do anything to make it go away or heal on its own by yourself, you’ll be disappointed to learn that this issue requires professional treatment. A tooth abscess needs to be looked at and treated by a veterinarian.  What Causes Tooth Abscess in Dogs and How to Treat ItWhile some minor dental issues in dogs can potentially resolve on their own, a tooth abscess typically requires veterinary attention. An abscess indicates a serious infection, and without proper treatment, it can worsen and lead to numerous complications. Your veterinarian can assess the severity of the abscess and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics, dental cleaning, and possibly tooth extraction. It's essential not to delay treatment, as dental infections can cause pain and discomfort for your dog and may even lead to systemic health issues if left untreated. However, the question still remains – what causes a tooth abscess in dogs?Dental abscesses are typically caused by bacterial infection, which can spread rapidly if not addressed promptly. Without proper treatment, the infection can affect surrounding tissues, leading to more extensive dental and oral health issues. It goes without saying that one such abscess can be very painful for your dog. It will lead to discomfort during eating, reluctance to eat or chew, excessive drooling, stress, and many other behavioral issues. If left untreated, an abscess can potentially wreak havoc on your pet. Not only can the infection spread to other parts of their body, but the nasty bacteria from the abscess can enter into the bloodstream and can ultimately affect vital organs, such as the liver, kidneys, or heart. Because of this, an abscess needs to be dealt with promptly. But how do you spot a tooth abscess? In many cases, it will be easy to spot that your pet is in discomfort. For example, you can spot changes in their eating habits. They might suddenly chew on one side only, avoid hard foods, or decline eating altogether. Another key sign is if a dog is suddenly pawing at their face as if trying to scratch themselves. Such rubbing and pawing is their attempt to alleviate the pain and discomfort they feel. You can also feel a foul odor on their breath or spot excessive drooling from the mouth. Needless to say, your dog will show signs that they are in pain, and might whimper or seem sad. In either of these cases, you should check their mouth cavity and try spotting the abscess to confirm that this is what ails them.

According to a New Study, Crows Can Count Out Loud

It’s no secret that crows are very intelligent creatures, and are capable of some truly stunning feats. However, a new study sheds light on a previously unknown skill of theirs – one that makes them truly unique in the world of animals. According to a team of scientists, crows can count out loud, quite similarly to human toddlers – and are the only other animal except humans to do so.This study is titled “Crows 'Count' the Number of Self-Generated Vocalizations" and was released on May 23rd, 2024 in the popular journal Science. The study found that crows are capable of producing a certain number of “caws” in response to auditory or visual stimuli. This means that they were able to count out loud between one and four. Why is that so important, though?"Producing a specific number of vocalizations with purpose requires a sophisticated combination of numerical abilities and vocal control," the researchers explained. "Our results demonstrate that crows can flexibly and deliberately produce an instructed number of vocalizations by using the 'approximate number system', a non-symbolic number estimation system shared by humans and animals."During the course of the experiment, the research team presented three crows with random auditory and visual stimuli. These included sounds from various instruments and Arabic numbers. "Through trial and error, the birds learned that each cue corresponded to a set number of caws between one and four," the team members wrote. "After crowing the vocalizations out (cawing four times for a sound or symbol associated with four caws, for example), the birds were trained to peck the screen displaying them to signal they had finished."After the training was done, the crows – much to everyone’s surprise – gave correct answers when asked to say “the proper number of caws”. Their counting skills were quickly compared to those of toddlers. "This competency in crows also mirrors toddlers' enumeration skills before they learn to understand cardinal number words and may therefore constitute an evolutionary precursor of true counting where numbers are part of a combinatorial symbol system," the team shared.This goes beyond everything that was known about crows thus far. It just goes to show that crows are much more than regular birds in their behavior and abilities. And they might be much smarter than we previously realized – and we already thought they were exceptionally intelligent to begin with.

Two Pet Food Recalls Spark Fear of Bacterial Infections

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

Pairing Shelter Dogs Reduces Stress and Helps Them Get Adopted Faster

Dogs are social creatures who rely on companionship, especially in stressful situations. Having a companion doesn’t only diminish loneliness, it can also have a huge impact on dogs’ future, especially those waiting for a furever home.A new study, led by Erica Feuerbacher, associate professor in the Colledge of Agriculture Life Sciences’ School of Animal Sciences found that living with a roommate lowers stress levels in shelter dogs and helps them get adopted more quickly.According to ASPCA, approximately 3.1 million dogs enter shelters nationwide each year. This new study may offer a potential solution for overcrowded animal shelters that are overwhelmed by the surge in unwanted pets and longer waits for dogs needing adoption. “Despite being a social species, dogs are often housed alone in shelters to reduce disease transmission and possible injury from inter-dog conflict. But this social isolation can work against dogs’ behavioral health and adaptability,” said Feuerbacher. “We wanted to examine whether pair housing could be a useful intervention for improving shelter dogs’ welfare.”This groundbreaking study was published in the journal PLOS One. It is the first study to look into how U.S.-based shelter dogs cope when housed alone versus when they are living with a canine companion. This isn’t the first study that researched the benefits of co-housing dogs, but previous studies focused on laboratory beagles and veterinary school dogs. These dogs were housed in kennels long-term, usually for more than six months, for research and teaching purposes. On the other hand, shelter dogs spend an average of 35 days waiting to be adopted, and are, in most cases, used to social interactions prior to entering the shelter. For seven days, researchers studied 61 dogs at the Humane Society of Western Montana. Researchers placed half the dogs in co-housing with roommates who were picked through a compatibility test and brief introduction. The other half of the group was housed alone.Throughout the week, scientists observed the dogs and recorded common stress behaviors, including lip licking, pulling back their ears, and whining. They also took daily samples of dogs’ urine to measure cortisol and creatinine, which are biological markers of stress. “Dogs housed in shelters can face chronic levels of stress due to noise, confined kennel spaces, and limited access to social interaction,” said Feuerbacher adding that this can reduce a dog’s well-being, which may affect a dog’s adoptability. Scientists were happy to discover that dogs housed together showed fewer stress behaviors. Not only that, data showed that these pooches were adopted four days sooner than single-housed dogs. These results show that pairing shelter dogs may be a way for shelters and rescues to improve the quality of dogs’ lives, increase their chances of getting adopted, and shorten their stay in the shelter. Feuerbacher hopes that these findings will encourage shelters to pair dogs with suitable roommates to reduce dogs’ stress and showcase them at their best to potential adopters. “Many potential adopters might already have a dog or would like to engage in social activities with their dog,” Feuerbacher said. “Clearly exhibiting that a dog can successfully interact with other dogs might highlight those dogs as good matches - leading to more successful adoptions.” Dogs who get to have company while they are at the shelter aren’t just happier, they also get to behave more naturally and let their true personality shine through. Co-housing dogs is a win-win situation for everyone and an easy way for shelters to get more dogs adopted into loving homes. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Pet Safety Reminders For the 4th of July

When preparing for a fun-packed Fourth of July, it’s essential to consider your pets. While fireworks, barbecues, and picnics provide endless fun to people, all the festivities can be frightening and potentially dangerous for cats and dogs.Whether or not you are gearing up for your own Fourth of July celebration, there are several things you can do to keep your pets safe during festivities. Here’s how to keep your pets safe this Fourth of July:1. Keep Your Fur Baby IndoorsPets and fireworks don’t mix, so it’s best to keep cats and dogs indoors during Independence Day celebrations. Dogs and cats are more sensitive to noise than people and are afraid of fireworks. Some pets can become so scared when fireworks start to go off that they may bolt. Keeping your pet indoors will ensure they remain safe and sound during the celebration. 2. Create a Quiet and Safe Space for Your PetConsider how the Fourth of July celebration can affect your pet. Dogs and cats are more sensitive to noise and will appreciate having a safe and quiet space to retreat to.The laundry room or a bathroom often don’t have windows and may serve as a less-noisy sanctuary for a scared pet. Throw in a cozy bed, some of your pet’s favorite toys, and a bowl of fresh water to help them relax.3. Update Your Pets Microchip and ID Tag Information Even if you do everything right, accidents can still happen. If despite your best efforts your pet happens to get loose and run away, make sure they can be easily identified and returned to their home. Have your pet wear a collar with up-to-date contact information to make their return home more likely.Microchipping your pet serves as an added method of identification. Unlike a collar with ID tags, a microchip can’t become lost and is your best bet for having your pet returned home safe and sound. 4. Keep Your Pets Away From AlcoholAlcohol is toxic to cats and dogs. Alcohol poisoning is common in pets and can happen from ingestion, inhalation, and skin absorption of alcohol or alcohol-containing products. Signs of alcohol poisoning include, staggering, excitement, lack of coordination, excess drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, lethargy, increased thirst and urination, difficulty breathing, low body temperature, coma, and seizures.  5. Keep Your Pet Away From CitronellaCitronella candles, torches, and sprays are commonly used in the summer as a mosquito repellant. However, none of these products are safe for pets to be around. Citronella plant is toxic to pets and can cause skin irritation, weakness, drooling, abdominal pain, and vomiting. If you’re planning on throwing a Fourth of July celebration in your backyard, keep your pets away from any citronella products, or better yet, opt for a pet-safe natural insect repellant. 6. Know the Signs of OverheatingPets don’t fare well in hot and humid weather, and being outside at high temperatures increases the risk of overheating. Ensure your pets have access to fresh cool water at all times, and provide plenty of shade to minimize the risk of overheating. Labored breathing, heavy panting, increased heart rate, and drooling are signs of overheating in pets. Brachycephalic breeds, like French bulldogs, pugs, and Boston terriers are at an increased risk of overheating, so extra care must be taken to keep these pups cool and protected from the scorching heat. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Teeth Grinding in Cats: Why It Happens

You already know that people sometimes grind their teeth, but did you know that bruxism can occur in cats, too? This can be caused by pain in the mouth or body, so it is important to have your kitty examined by a veterinarian if you notice the symptoms of bruxism.What is bruxism in cats, what causes it, and what can be done about it? Keep reading to learn a bit about feline bruxism so you’ll know how to recognize it.

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