Unique CT Café Offers Cats, Coffee, and A Passion for Social Justice!

by Britt

Published: September 11th, 2024

Photo credit: Harbucks / Shutterstock.com

Having long demonstrated its commitment to the feline members of society, a well-known and loved coffee shop in Connecticut has recently taken a big step forward in its mission to foster social justice, inclusion, and reproductive freedom.

The Two Wrasslin’ Cats Coffee House in East Haddam, Connecticut, has long stood out. From their bold cobalt blue walls and neon green trim to the 6-ft-tall cats standing over their front door – it’s clear you’re entering a one-of-a-kind establishment.

Owner Mark Thiede first opened the café in May 2013. Shortly after choosing the color palette and décor for the property, one of the subcontractors warned him about the image he was creating and recommended reconsidering his color choices, stating that it would discourage people like contractors from visiting the business as they would see it as “a gay house.”

Rather than allowing the warning to discourage him, Thiede took the warning and used it to inspire him to make a difference. From that moment on, the café would be a place where everyone is welcome.

In addition to creating a place for people to feel safe and accepted, Thiede also set his sights on embracing his love of cats to raise money for pet-related causes within his community.

There are no live cats in the café itself, out of respect for those that are allergic. However, the entire space is cat-inspired. From the cat-themed decorations to the menu with items like the “Catprese.” If that has you feeling a little disappointed, don’t worry…

Next door to the coffeehouse, the Wrasslin’ Cat Lounge will allow you to enjoy playtime with six adorable kitties (all brothers and sisters). The entry cost is $5 for adults and $3 for children. This money is donated to fund local trap and release efforts and cat wellness programs. In fact, Thiede and his six furry ambassadors raised over $8000 for charity in just the last two months!

What could honestly make people love the place more?

Thiede is now taking his dedication to making a difference to the next level. After 11 years operating as Two Wrasslin’ Cats Coffee House, LLC, the operations have now been transformed into a beautiful and welcoming nonprofit called Two Wrasslin’ Cats Accord Corp. Given all that Thiede has accomplished, we’re fascinated to see what kind of difference he can make as a 501(c)3 charitable corporation.

Why TNR?

Whether this is your first time hearing about trap and release (TNR) programs, you may wonder how they work and why Thiede feels so passionately about their impact on feral cat colonies in his community.

TNR programs work to reduce the number of feral cats by preventing new cats from being born into the colony. At the same time, when the cats are in their care, volunteers can assess the health of the cats they have trapped to ensure they are healthy enough to be returned.

The work recognizes that cats born feral or have lived their whole lives outdoors may be unable to adapt to domesticated life. But this doesn’t mean they don’t deserve a happy, healthy existence.

Caring for these cats reduces the strain on local shelters and rescue organizations, helps prevent the spread of infections and contagious diseases, reduces behavioral problems (like spraying and fighting), and makes it possible for people to live harmoniously with the feral colonies in their area.

If you’re in the East Haddam, CT area, swing by for a cat-themed bite to eat and a little extra snuggle time in the lounge. After all, it’s for charity!

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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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Strict Rules for Bringing Your Dog Across the US Border Start Aug 1st

All the Canadians who were considering bringing their pooches across the U.S. border are now facing new and very strict rules. Coming into effect August 1st, this new rule will require all owners to own vet-approved documentation that would prove that the dog was vaccinated against rabies. All those who were used to journeying to the USA will have to navigate these strict new regulations. The new rules were introduced by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and prevent casual crossing of the international border with a canine. Instead, owners are required to present papers to the CDC in advance of a planned trip, and thus prove that their pooch is healthy, vaccinated against rabies, and has a valid microchip. In simpler terms, spontaneous travel to the USA is no longer possible.So, beginning this August 1st, your dog will have to be at least six months old to travel to the U.S. and fulfill all the conditions above as well. Of course, owners have to be understanding too: these new measures are there to keep the U.S. free of rabies. One additional condition on the list is a requirement that “your dog hasn’t been in one of over 100 countries where rabies is not under control, in the previous six months.”To help owners fully understand all these - and other - regulations, the CDC launched its special DogBot application that makes everything easier to understand. Even so, many owners are finding these changes radical. For years, taking your dog across the U.S. border was simple, regulated by border officials, and required few if any documents. But that is all about to change coming this August. Owners will have to complete a string of tasks before even considering travel. Vaccinations, vet visits, microchips – the list is hefty and mandatory. Many owners concluded that this new rule implies treating a dog as “chattel”, a thing you own, and not a friend and family member. But it’s not just the perception, but rather the unnecessary complications that come with it – you have to have a form filled out by a vet, to ensure that the microchip your pet has is compatible with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). This brings up the question of whether the chips issued by vets are compatible with the ISO. So far, there is no explanation issued by the CDC to resolve this. The new rules also affect doggos that are younger than six months and thus cannot be vaccinated against rabies. Before, they could enter the U.S., but now this is no longer possible. Besides, the new rules and form requirements will be an additional expense for owners, who would already be burdened with the costs of travel.Needless to say, the regulations will also have major implications for breeders, show dog owners, rescue organizations, and others. “If you don’t follow CDC’s rules, your dog won’t be allowed to enter the United States,” warns the CDC. “If denied entry, your dog will be sent back to the last country of departure at your expense. Country of departure is where the last trip originated - not where the dog was born or where it lives.”

Owner Who Never Lost Hope Reunites with a Missing Dog After 10 Years

An owner’s undying hope and commitment to keeping their dog’s microchip up to date resulted in a happy reunion 10 years after the dog went missing. A Florida family lost their cockapoo, named Cleo, way back in 2014 when the mischievous pooch ran away from home. Despite never hearing anything about Cleo again, the owner Luisa, kept the microchip information up to date in hopes of getting reunited with her beloved pooch.After so many years, most owners would have lost hope of ever seeing their furry companion again but Cleo’s family still had faith, even after they moved to Miami. Finally, all those years of unwavering hope and commitment paid off when Cleo arrived at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.The organization shared in a post that the dog recently arrived at the shelter as a stray. The staff had little hope that the dog was microchipped but scanned it nonetheless. Imagine their surprise when they discovered a microchip filled with up-to-date contact information.“We were hoping for a happy ending and for her to be reunited with her owners, but we did not foresee the joy her story brought,” the organization said on Facebook.The information on the pup’s microchip led the shelter’s staff to Luisa, who was in disbelief when they called because Cleo had been missing, ever since he ran away 10 years ago! “They never lost hope and continued to update her microchip in the small hope that they would be reunited, even after they moved to Miami.”The family made a five-hour trip from Miami to Tampa Bay to reclaim their beloved pooch. The shelter shared pictures of the emotional reunion, featuring a smiling Cleo. “This shows the power and importance of the microchip and never losing hope,” the post concluded.A microchip is a small transponder that carries a unique identification number. That identification number is entered into a database that contains contact information pet owners provide when registering their pet or when updating the information, like in Cleo’s case. Although microchips don’t possess GPS or tracking abilities they are still considered one of the best ways for owners to get reunited with a lost pet. In addition to microchipping your pet, they can also wear a collar with ID tags that include your current contact information.Microchipping is a simple and cheap procedure with minimal risks for your pet. If you haven’t microchipped your pup, do it now, and make sure the microchip is always registered with up-to-date information. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Viral TikTok Video Shares the Joy of a Rescue Dog Reunited with Friend

Adopting a rescue dog can be a challenge at the best of times. Having gone through multiple homes/environments, sometimes without the attention to training or socialization that helps to create that “ideal pet,” rescue parents find themselves trying to navigate various challenges and obstacles. Not that it takes away from the benefits of being a rescue pet parent – having only ever rescued our dogs and cats, I can attest to just how much love these amazing pets have to give! One struggle many rescue pets will need to overcome is leaving behind the other pets they have previously connected or bonded with. This could include pets that they are housed with in shelter environments or those that they live with in foster homes. While some become SO incredibly bonded that organizations decide they can only be adopted together, others try to increase their chances of being adopted by offering the pets individually. This was the situation with Celeste, a beautiful and loving rescue dog that was adopted by TikTok user goosegooseduckling. However, they never could have predicted how this story would unfold… A few months after adopting the pup and bringing her into their Indiana home, Celeste’s new mom, Michelle, decided to introduce her to the neighbor’s dog. However, a short conversation with the neighbor revealed something amazing… Celeste and her new neighbor were best friends in the shelter before they were adopted! Offering even more insight into the incredible situation, Michelle wrote: “What a small world! Today we found out that our next door neighbor’s dog was adopted from the same shelter, nearly 2 hours away from where we live. They were both rescued as young pups, and each spent 9 months at the shelter… with a 6-month overlap. This was their first time seeing each other since being adopted.”The video of the two dogs running and playing has now gone viral on TikTok, with over 300 comments and 7.6K likes. It’s a reminder of the many emotions a dog in the shelter system can experience—from meeting new friends to leaving them behind for their new forever home. However, Celeste would come to enjoy the best of both worlds!

Why Does My Herding Dog Nip People?

Does your playful pup turn into a little velociraptor anytime they are around guests or even family members (especially children)? It’s a common struggle with herding dogs, but it doesn’t have to continue frustrating you for the rest of their lives! Herding dogs were bred with strong instincts to manage and control the movement of livestock. While that behavior is helpful when working in the fields, it can translate into unwanted nipping in everyday life. In this article, we’ll explain why herding dogs nip and, more importantly, how to train them to show their affection in a more acceptable way. What are the Personality Traits of a Herding Dog? Before focusing on this specific problem behavior, let’s take a step back and start at the beginning. What is a herding dog, and what personality traits are they most known for? Dogs classified in the Herding Group were bred specifically to gather, herd, and protect livestock. This means that they were bred with instincts that would help them perform their jobs safely and effectively. Some of the more common herding breeds include: Australian Cattle Dog Australian Shepherd Bearded Collie Belgian Malinois Border Collie Collie German Shepherd Dog Old English Sheepdog Pembroke Welsh Corgi Shetland SheepdogThese dogs are athletic and agile, allowing them to work with livestock on any terrain. They are also incredibly smart and can learn to follow even the most subtle hand movements. This means they are highly trainable but also have high exercise needs. Why Does My Herding Dog Nip People? Okay, these dogs are highly intelligent and full of energy – but how does that translate to nipping? If this is your first time living with a herding dog, you may be concerned that your dog has aggressive tendencies after seeing them nip at peoples’ ankles. You may be relieved to learn that this isn’t actually a sign of aggression. When your herding dog nips at someone’s feet or heels, they are tapping into their natural instincts. They are attempting to herd that person, just as they would with livestock in the field. Understanding this can help you view their behavior in a different light. The herding behavior is more likely to be triggered when someone mimics livestock in their eyes, running or playing around. Children are often on the receiving end for this reason, which can create a concerning situation.

How to Get a Dog to Take a Pill

For most dogs, taking some form of pills – be it a supplement for preventing health issues or a medicine to treat existing ones – is a part of their daily routine. Sadly, that doesn’t mean that most dogs are used to the process and that they take the pill without protesting. Even though in most cases pills are not optional, our doggos often stubbornly refuse to ingest them. They’ll whimper, run, or straight out refuse to open their mouth. So how do you go about it and give a pill to your dog? Here are some useful tips and tricks that can make this task simple and quick!How to Get a Dog to Take a Pill – 5 Simple Tricks You Can Try Right NowOne of the best tricks you can use is to hide the pill in food. As we all know, most pooches are voracious and will gobble up anything you have in your hand. Any tasty treat will be quickly gulped down, with the hidden pill as well! In case you have a smart doggo on your hands, you can trick them by “accidentally” dropping some food with the pill hidden inside it and try to fake – prevent them from taking it – that works wonders for my spoiled poodle who’d eat anything if she thinks it’s forbidden. You can also try peanut butter, as it is sticky and flavorful, making it hard for the dog to detect the pill. Meat is great too, as dogs love it and it can hide a pill easily. If your dog is a picky eater or simply finds a way to get the pill out of the food every time you try to sneak it, you can also utilize  the specially designed pill pocket treats for dogs, which have a special hiding place for a pill. They’re irresistible too!

Americans Are Taking Their Pets to Mexico for Vet Care - Here's Why

The rising costs of veterinary care in the U.S. have spurred a growing number of pet parents to turn to Mexico for more affordable veterinary care for their pets. Valerie Silva of Indio, California, estimates that she saved hundreds of dollars on veterinary bills for her two dogs, Paco and Sunny, in one year. The first time she visited a Mexican veterinary clinic was in 2022, when her Chihuahua mix, Sunny, needed vaccines. Unable to schedule an appointment for Sunny at any of the local veterinary clinics, Valerie has found a pet hospital near her grandparents’ house in Mexicali. She was pleased with the service enough to come back to get Sunny spayed and have her other dog, Paco, vaccinated. Overall, she paid $80 for the spaying procedure and around $200 for eight shots for both dogs.“The price difference is insane,” Silva told USA TODAY. “It’s just so much easier being able to go in there and not have to worry about it being like $70, $100 for a shot.” The huge savings and easy access to affordable pet care have made traveling to Mexico attractive to many pet parents like Silva. Miguel Lazcano of New York City was in a difficult situation when one of his three dogs, a longhaired Dachshund named Henry, needed dental care. “We noticed some of his teeth were loose and his breath was getting worse,” said Lazcano. “They mentioned there was at least four extractions and the cost on the high end was around $5,000. And on the low end, was around $3,500.”Without pet insurance to cover the cost, Lazcano has already paid around $700 for Henry’s bloodwork. After getting Henry’s dental surgery estimate, Lazcano decided to research more affordable veterinary care in Mexico.Lazcano came across MaxiVet Express, a pet courier service that would take his dog to Tijuana, Mexico, for veterinary treatment at a fraction of the price. The owner of MaxiVet Express, Anna Ginsky, started her company after taking her dog to Mexico for dental treatment. Ginsky said she saved over $1,600 on her dog’s procedure in Mexico. “Mexican vets are definitely targeting U.S. pet owners to become their clients. They are making announcements in English. They are advertising more on the internet,” explained Ginsky.Ginsky’s clients travel from all over the country and then her team accompany the pets to Mexico while their owners stay stateside. Most veterinary treatments are finished within a day. Most pet parents opt to take their pets to Mexico for dental care and simple surgeries. The Mexican veterinarians Ginsky works with also offer follow-up appointments, wellness checks, and chemotherapy treatments. “It makes me really fulfilled to be able to offer a service like this. We have people cry when they learn what our prices are going to be and how affordable it’s going to be for them.” Henry, the longhaired Dachshund, traveled around 3,000 miles for his first veterinary appointment in Mexico. The vet performed an echocardiogram to ensure Henry could tolerate anesthesia before moving on with teeth cleaning and extractions.Ginsky called Lazcano regularly to keep him updated about his pooch. This is a standard procedure for Ginsky, who believes pet parents should be kept informed throughout the day, regardless of whether they are first-time clients or have used her services before. “Everybody loves their pet just the same. And they want to make sure that their pet’s doing OK,” she said.Ronald Richards, the owner of the clinic where Henry had his dental work done explained that the main reason veterinary prices are lower in Mexico is because labor costs less. “The doctors just don’t make as much money as they do in the United States. We don’t have medical malpractice insurance or anything like that. So here in Mexico, it’s really kind of buyers beware in regards to when you go to someone’s clinic for service.”Despite all the potential risks, Lazcano is comfortable with his decision and confident that Henry got the best veterinary care. Henry has made a full recovery after his surgery, and his breath is now fresh.  After spending only a third of what he would have to pay a vet in New York, Lozcano is now considering taking his other two dogs for veterinary treatments in Mexico. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Much Playtime Does My Cat Need?

Sure, cats tend to spend a lot of their day seemingly lazing about, basking in the sun, meticulously cleaning themselves, and snoozing away. However, that doesn’t mean that cats are not active animals that need daily exercise – they have an instinct to hunt, explore, and engage in different activities that stimulate their minds and bodies. Without adequate mental and physical stimulation, cats can become bored, stressed, and even develop behavioral issues. This is why playtime is not “just” a matter of playing for felines. It meets their most basic needs and it's an essential component of their overall well-being.What Are the Benefits of Playtime for Cats?Engaging your cat in interactive play stimulates their cognitive abilities, keeping their minds sharp and active. Activities like chasing toys, solving puzzles, or hunting for treats mimic their natural hunting instincts, providing mental enrichment. Enrichment is crucial to prevent destructive behaviors, aggression, and other behavioral issues that stem from boredom and lack of mental stimulation. In addition to keeping your kitty’s mind sharp, playtime will keep them fit as a fiddle and in their top form. Regular play sessions help cats balance extra energy, maintain a healthy weight, and prevent obesity-related health issues. It also promotes muscle tone, flexibility, and overall physical fitness, reducing the risk of joint problems as they age.Last but not least, interactive play presents a unique bonding opportunity. Playing together with your cat will strengthen your relationship, fostering trust and affection. It's a chance to spend quality time together and will provide your cat with a sense of security and happiness.How Much Playtime Does My Cat Need?The importance of your cat having regular playtime is indisputable, but how much playtime do they need? Well, as it usually goes with these things, the answer will largely depend on your pet’s specific traits, such as their age, breed, and health status. However, for most cats, that “magic” number ends up being between 20 to 30 minutes of playtime each day. This could be your starting point to determine the right amount of play for your pet, just tailor it to their needs – for instance, younger cats and kittens will need longer and more frequent play sessions to burn off excess energy and engage their curious minds. How To Make Playtime Engaging for Your CatAs intelligent and sometimes finicky animals, cats can be a bit hard to please. A new toy might bore them in a matter of hours, or they might prefer scratching your couch rather than the new cat tree you bought them – but if you rely on the following tricks, it’s much likelier that your kitty will enjoy playtime.#1 Rotate ToysKeep your cat's interest piqued by rotating their toys regularly. Introduce new toys periodically to prevent boredom and stimulate their curiosity, but don’t overdo it – bringing home new toys too often will ensure they get bored of each one too quickly. #2 Variety is KeyExperiment with different types of toys, such as wand toys, laser pointers, puzzle feeders, and interactive play circuits. Cats have unique preferences, so observe what activities your cat enjoys most and tailor playtime accordingly. Usually, a safe bet is going for a catnip-filled toy such as the well-loved  Yeowww! Catnip Yellow Banana Cat Toy. Popular for its shape that makes it perfect for cats to grab onto and forcefully scratch with all fours, this toy will keep your kitty engaged thanks to the organic catnip stuffing that fills this banana-shaped toy to the brim.

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Is It Safe For Dogs To Swim In The Ocean?

Most dogs are very capable swimmers. And many of them love to take a dip whenever possible. They might not like baths at home, but they will surely love to dive right into a lake, pond, or river. But what about those big bodies of water – lakes, seas, and more importantly, the ocean? These can be a bit scary and sometimes unpredictable, so owners are naturally apprehensive when it comes to their precious pet swimming in them. However, swimming in the ocean can be a fun and invigorating activity for dogs, offering them a chance to cool off, exercise, and explore a new environment. But even so, as a responsible pet owner, it's essential to understand the potential risks and take appropriate precautions to keep your furry friend safe. Here’s what you need to know before your pooch splashes around.Is It Safe For Dogs To Swim In The Ocean?While most dogs naturally enjoy splashing in the waves, the ocean presents unique challenges that require careful consideration. There are some important factors to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable ocean swimming experience for your dog and to fully enjoy your carefree days at the beach.Of course, it goes without saying that you should first observe the water and its surface, and to try and determine if it is safe to swim in. Ensure the water is clean and free of potentially harmful bacteria, algae, or pollutants. Avoid areas with red tides, dead fish, or signs warning of contamination. The next logical step is to consider the elements. If the weather is rough and the ocean seems “rowdy”, then it is best to avoid swimming. Be aware of the strength of its currents and waves that can be unpredictable. Strong undertows or large waves can be dangerous, especially for smaller dogs or less skilled swimmers. If your pet is not a proficient swimmer, you should make sure to get them a dog life jacket even when the water seems perfectly calm. Pick one in bright colors so your pet is easier to spot in case of an emergency – ideally with reflective details, too, for better visibility in low light conditions.

Can You Potty Train a Parrot?

Parrots are known as very fun pets and quite intelligent creatures. They are adored all across the globe, in all their various sizes and colors. But, as many parrot owners know, they can be messy with how and where they poop. And often, it can require a lot of cleaning up. So it is only natural that owners are wondering - can you potty train a parrot? While this might seem like a daunting task, with a bit of patience and consistency, it is actually doable. These birds are smart and are capable of learning behaviors, including where and when to poop. Now, keep in mind that training them won’t be the same as with a dog, but with the right approach, it can be a simple process.How to Potty Train a Parrot: Step by StepBefore you tackle this process of potty training your bird, it is crucial to understand how parrots behave. Naturally, these are rather clean animals. In their wild, natural habitat, parrots tend to relieve themselves away from their nests, as to avoid attracting predators. And this exact instinct can be utilized during potty training. However, keep in mind that parrots don’t have control over their bowel movements like humans do. They often relieve themselves every 15 to 30 minutes, depending on their size and diet. Knowing this, you can plan your training sessions accordingly.#1 The first step in your potty training process is to choose a specific command or cue. This could be a simple word, such as “poop” or “potty”, or even a specific hand signal. The key is consistency - use the same command each time. #2 Next, you want to pay close attention to your parrot’s natural behavior. Notice when they are about to relieve themselves - common signs include tail lifting or squatting. Understanding this routine will help you anticipate when they need to “go”.#3 Decide on a specific spot where you want your parrot to go potty. This can be their perch, a spot in their cage or enclosure, or a paper-lined area. By repeatedly taking your parrot to this spot when you see they need to “go”, they will begin to associate the area with the act.

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What is the Best Catio for My Cat?

Do you have a cat that loves being outdoors, enjoying the fresh air, but you worry about their safety and well-being? Does your cat refuse to walk to wear a harness or walk on a leash? The answer might be a catio! These kitty-focused enclosures are gaining a lot of attention lately, popping up in backyards, on the sides of travel trailers, and even as portable safe spaces for cat parents to take their furry friends anywhere. With so many designs, materials, and features available, choosing the best catio for your needs can feel overwhelming. In this guide, I will do a deep dive into the world of catios, exploring different types and the situations they are best suited for. I will also discuss different features and key considerations to help you while shopping for your cat. Get ready to create the perfect (and safe) outdoor space for your furry friend today! What is a Catio? Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is a catio? The term is a mix of “cat” and “patio,” referring to enclosed outdoor spaces designed specifically for cats. These range from small playpen-style spaces to allow them to get a bit of fresh air to large patios with space for both the cat and their people. Are Catios Good for Cats? Yes! Catios are a great way to allow your cat to spend time outdoors without putting them at risk. While domesticated cats are safer indoors, spending time outdoors has benefits. Allowing your cat to watch the birds and explore new spaces is a great way to provide them with mental enrichment and stimulation. Many cats also simply enjoy sunbathing or watching the world around them. At the same time, the catio keeps them safely contained. Outdoor cats have considerably shorter lifespans due to their increased risk of diseases, predators, car accidents, outdoor toxins, and other unfortunate accidents. According to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative, the average outdoor cat lives to be 2-5 years old, while the average indoor cat with only safe, supervised outdoor time lives to be 10-20 years old. Keeping your cat in a catio is also a great way to protect the local wildlife. Cats are natural predators with a strong hunting instinct. Stray cats and cats allowed to roam outdoors significantly impact the ecosystem by killing large numbers of birds, rodents, and other wildlife. What Are the Downsides of a Catio? Allowing your cat to be outdoors in a catio is a great compromise. However, as with any product for our pets, there are pros and cons to consider. Even though your cat is contained, it may create a false sense of security regarding some of the risks of being outdoors. The mesh or screening around a catio isn’t enough to keep parasites like fleas and ticks away. You will still need to consider the necessary flea preventatives and regular tick checks to keep these pets away. The other risk that isn’t completely mitigated by the confines of a catio is the dangers introduced by local strays. Cat fights and confrontations can still occur through the flexible mesh and screen sides. This means your cat is still at risk of unnecessary stress from these encounters and the potential spread of diseases. Careful supervision of your cat outdoors, even if they are safely contained in their catio, will allow you to keep these strays away. What is the Difference Between a Catio and a Fenced Yard?Even if you have a fenced yard, a catio can provide an additional level of safety and security for your cat. But why might you need this extra layer of protection? There are many stray and outdoor cats that easily climb over fences, viewing them as nothing more than a minor inconvenience. Even if your cat has never escaped the fence around your yard before, there is a first time for everything. It only takes a couple of seconds for your cat to climb a tree, scale a shed, or jump up to the top of your fence from a patio chair, and they are now running loose. As we already discussed, there are many significant dangers putting your cat at risk when running unsupervised outdoors. A fenced yard is not a reliable solution to this.

New Bill Will Eliminate Housing Barriers for Pet Owners In California

California tenants with pets rejoice - a new bill that stops landlords from denying housing to pet owners is in the works!The chair of the California Legislative Renters Caucus, Matt Haney, has introduced legislation that would compel landlords to accept tenants with pets. The bill, AB 2216, will insist that landlords have reasonable reason(s) for not allowing a pet in the rental unit. The biggest change, however, is that the bill prevents property owners from asking about pet ownership before the tenant’s application has been approved.The new bill, which is sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States, aims to solve a big problem in the rental world - a surplus of tenants with pets and a lack of landlords willing to rent to them.California has one of the highest number of tenants in the country, and close to 70% of them are pet owners. Alas, under current law, only around 30% of all rentals are pet-friendly. The lack of pet-friendly housing is causing almost a million tenants to keep pets in their rentals hidden from their landlords. This solves nothing. On one hand, landlords are left without adequate coverage for potential damages. On the other hand, pet owners are left living in constant fear of being kicked out of their homes. Andrea Amavisca, a senior legislative advocate at the California Immigration Policy Center, told the LA Times that she and her partner spent over a month looking for a two-bedroom rental in Sacramento that would allow for a small cattle dog mix.“Landlords that initially liked our application would suddenly stop answering our calls once they found out we had a dog. Or others would require a pet deposit close to $1,000 that would put the unit totally out of our budget.”Amavisca added it felt unfair that almost every landlord had a different pet policy with varying fees they could change as they pleased. Some landlords charged only $20 a month while others asked for four-figure cleaning deposits. The new bill doesn’t address fees and doesn’t prevent landlords from excluding certain types of pets. Haney’s legislation defines a common household pet as a domesticated animal, such as a cat or dog, that is kept in the home for pleasure rather than commercial uses. While pet owners are relieved to hear about the legislation, property owners are already expressing their concerns. The biggest issue is that landlords will be forced to take on pets, and the increased risk of potential property damage that comes with pets, without a pet deposit as a safeguard. Haney explained that exceptions would be made for landlords with reasonable excuses for not allowing pets on their property. “What we see too often is just these blanket prohibitions of pets with no good reason for it, with no required justification for it and no protection of pet owners, who represent the majority of California’s renters, to be able to access housing just like anyone else,” said Haney.According to Jenny Berg, California director for the Humane Society of the United States, extra fees and bans add to the overcrowding crisis in animal shelters nationwide. “One of the reasons why people relinquish their pets is because they can’t find affordable housing or housing at all that can accommodate their pets,” she said. Haney’s bill could make a massive change, as it would remove the barriers tenants face when looking for housing for them and their four-legged companions.“We want a renter to be considered first and decision made about whether they meet the requirements for the apartment,” said Haney. “And then, after that fact, they disclose that they have a pet. And only if there’s a reasonable rationale to deny them, that would be allowed.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Scientists Found a New Type of Training that Makes Dogs Better Behaved

Training a dog can seem intimidating, and doesn’t always yield the expected results. Luckily for all dog owners out there, a new study has found another way to train your four-legged companion. Scientists at Aberystwyth University, located in Wales, United Kingdom, have discovered that scent training could improve pet dogs' behavior. The study shows that pet dogs trained to detect scents have a better mental ability and capacity to carry out certain tasks.Previous research only compared highly trained working dogs, like assistance dogs or search and rescue dogs, with untrained pet dogs. Now, for the first time, the researchers have tested the effects of scent training on two groups of untrained dogs. A research team from Aberystwyth University led the study in collaboration with Emma Stoker, owner of Puppy Plus, a dog training company based in Newton, Wales.The study involved 40 dogs of varying degrees of training, whose owners were asked to fill out a questionnaire with basic information about their pet. Researchers gave the dogs two tasks, both requiring impulse control. In the first test, called the “detour task”, the dogs needed to navigate a transparent barrier to get food. The second “A not B task”, tested the dogs’ ability to switch their choice from one pot to another, depending on where food was placed. Researchers separated the dogs into two groups to see whether their ability to detect scents would improve their cognitive ability. The dogs in the first group were given the “detour task” and had to navigate around a transparent barrier to get a treat. In the second group, the researchers said “Look” to the dog to get its attention and then showed it a treat before hiding it under a pot. Dogs in the second group underwent scent training, separated into three phases - familiarization, training, and test phase. In the first phase, only one pot was used. In the training phase, two pots were used, and in the final, test phase, three pots were used.Pate scent was rubbed on all pots to make it harder for the dogs to sniff out where the treat was hidden. If the dog didn’t respond within 20 seconds of being released to find the treat, or if it picked the wrong pot, the dog was shown the treat but wasn’t rewarded. Researchers discovered that dogs who received scent training performed the tasks more efficiently than those who weren’t trained. The study also showed that scent training improved dogs’ inhibitory control and helped them focus on completing a specific task. What’s important for dog owners to know is that poor impulse control is believed to be the main cause of a lot of unwanted behaviors in dogs, such as house soiling and destructive behavior. This new study suggests that scent training could help owners improve their dogs’ behavior. Dr. Sarah Dalesman, the co-author of the study, said: “This research shows that dogs that train primarily in scent work have stronger inhibitory control, suggesting that this training can have a positive effect on their behavior.”“Scent training is offered by a lot of dog trainers, and easy to practice at home. It might offer a great way for owners to improve their pets’ behavior, and we’re aiming to test this theory in future studies.”If scent training isn’t compatible with the way your pup learns, you can try agility or puzzle training. Puzzle training provides mental and physical stimulation and can come in handy when a dog needs to stay home alone or confined. Agility training is another option. Agility is a sport in which you direct your dog through a pre-set obstacle course allowing them to gain problem-solving skills. Try different training activities with your dog to find out what you and your pooch enjoy doing together the most.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can Counterconditioning Help My Reactive Dog?

Caring for and managing a reactive dog can be incredibly frustrating. Your dog may be a sweet angel at home, but they suddenly evolve into a barking, growling, lunging whirlwind when out in public.Luckily, there is hope!Overcoming reactivity is a process that will not happen overnight. However, dog trainers and behaviorists have seen great success with positive reinforcement techniques like counterconditioning.This article will explore how counterconditioning works, the steps involved in the process, realistic timelines and expectations, and tips for a successful journey toward a calmer, more confident dog. Get started today!What is Counterconditioning for Dogs?Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is counterconditioning, and why is it recommended for managing and treating reactive dogs?Counterconditioning is a behavioral modification technique that focuses on changing your dog’s emotional response to a specific stimulus.For example, some dogs feel fear and anxiety at the sight of another dog. This could be due to a lack of socialization, meaning they weren’t taught that other dogs can be friendly. It could also be a reaction to a past trauma, like having been attacked by another dog. In these situations, counterconditioning can be used to teach your dog that the sight of another dog leads to a positive experience.Why is this an effective approach for addressing reactivity? Reactivity, by definition, is an overreaction to a trigger. While this is often associated with fear or anxiety, some reactive dogs become overly excited. An overexcited dog may jump all over strangers not because they are trying to cause harm but because they are so excited to see them that they can’t control their response.If you have identified your dog’s triggers, you can use this training approach to teach them to respond in a new (and better) way.What Can Counterconditioning Be Used to Treat?Reactivity isn’t the only behavioral condition that can be treated with counterconditioning. This technique can be used to address a wide spectrum of situations in which a pet may be responding to a situation or trigger in an unwanted way.Some situations where it is commonly recommended include helping dogs overcome specific fears or phobias as well as managing or overcoming behaviors related to obsessive-compulsive disorder.Common fears that may be addressed with counterconditioning include: Fear of car ridesAnxiety when visiting the vetNoises (fireworks, thunder)Babies (especially the sound of crying)Strangers or other dogs in publicAllowing guests to enter their homePhysical triggers like cars or bicyclesDogs who dislike grooming, like brushing or having their nails trimmedIf you believe this approach may be helpful in your dog’s unique situation, we recommend speaking with a behaviorist.You can find professionals in your area by browsing the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists website list or the Animal Behavior Consultants Directory by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.

Is It Important to Have a Crash-Tested Harness or Carrier?

We all love traveling with our best friends, creating lasting memories together. However, wherever the road takes us, ensuring their safety is a top priority. While some pet parents are comfortable riding around with their pet seated proudly in the passenger seat, this could be a life-threatening decision in an unexpected stop or accident. Is it worth taking the risk? We don’t believe so! In this post, we will explore the different options for safely restraining your pet during your next road trip. More importantly, we’ll examine what makes a crash-tested harness or carrier different from the non-tested options and how they can offer you, as a pet parent, peace of mind. Do Pets Have to Be in a Carrier in the Car? What Are My Options?When discussing how to keep our pets safe in the vehicle, the most common recommendation is to keep them secured in a crate or carrier. In fact, in some states, laws require that pets be restrained to avoid becoming a distraction when driving. A well-ventilated crate will keep your pet contained and prevent them from being thrown about in an accident. But it’s not your only option. If you have a larger dog, you may not have enough space for an appropriately sized crate in your vehicle. Others may have a pet that is uncomfortable or anxious in a crate. In these cases, a pet seatbelt can keep your pet safe. But it’s important to note that not all carriers and harnesses are created equally. There are a few additional considerations, including whether your gear is crash-tested and how they are secured within your vehicle. What is a Crash-Tested Harness or Carrier? You may be wondering what exactly a crash-tested harness or carrier is and what sets it apart from other travel gear. The products we refer to as crash-tested are those that passed the rigorous independent testing carried out by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS). Not only do these products pass the initial testing, but they also continue to be evaluated. Certification can be revoked if a product falls below the standards and requirements set out by CPS. On the CPS website, you can see details about the testing each product undergoes, including video evidence of the test and the date that it was tested. If you are road-tripping with your pet and searching for a CPS-certified harness or carrier, here are a few options that we highly recommend: Sleepypod Clickit Sport Plus Car Seat Belt Harness Sleepypod Air Airline Approved Pet Carrier Diggs Travel Pet Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats Lucky Dog Kennel A complete list of CPS-certified crash-tested products is on the CPS website.

What is Water Intoxication in Dogs?

Have you ever been warned about there being too much of a good thing? While water is essential for the health and well-being of our dogs, it also presents a surprising and often unknown danger: water intoxication.A serious and potentially fatal health concern, water intoxication (hyponatremia) is a risk that every dog parent should be aware of – especially those with pups who enjoy water-related activities like swimming in the pool, catching water from the hose, or even visiting the dog beach.In this guide, I’ll discuss the causes, symptoms, and prevention of water intoxication in dogs. Take a moment to read it through carefully. This information could save your furry friend’s life. What is Water Intoxication in Dogs?Water intoxication, or hyponatremia, is a medical condition that occurs when your dog ingests too much water in a short time. This impacts the electrolyte balance within the cells—more specifically, the sodium levels. It also causes the cells to swell.When the cells of the brain swell, this can have a severe and life-threatening effect on the central nervous system.Unlike some medical conditions that develop slowly over time, hyponatremia escalates very quickly. Medical treatment is needed as soon as possible. Even with quick action and veterinary care, not all dogs will recover.Can a Dog Drink Too Much Water?One of the first concerns that many pet parents have is the possibility of excessive water drinking in dogs. But is it possible for your dog to actively drink too much water, leading to water intoxication?A healthy dog will not continue drinking water to the point of threatening their own life, although some have been known to gulp down enough to cause stomach upset. This usually happens after being overly active or engaging in heavy exercise.If you notice your dog drinking excessive amounts of water, it could be a red flag of a more significant medical issue. Diseases and illnesses like diabetes, kidney problems, liver disease, and Cushing’s disease are all associated with increased thirst. Contact your veterinarian if your dog is drinking enough water to raise a concern.How Common is Water Intoxication in Dogs?If this information has you panicking or feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath. Water intoxication is life-threatening for dogs, but it’s also incredibly uncommon. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t familiarize ourselves with the risks, warning signs to look out for, and steps we can take to prevent a problem from developing.

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