The Cruel Reality Behind Koala Cuddling Revealed
Koalas, with their soft fur and sleepy eyes, have long been a symbol of Australian wildlife. They are a magnet for tourists who yearn to hold and cuddle these iconic marsupials. But beneath the cute exterior lies a more troubling reality: the practice of koala cuddling is detrimental to the animals’ welfare, leading many to call for its end. Photo: PexelsKoala cuddling causes significant stress to the animals. The Stress of Being a Photo Prop Despite their docile appearance, koalas are naturally solitary animals. They sleep up to 20...
Can Dogs Eat Couscous? Vet-Reviewed Nutrition Facts & FAQ
VET APPROVED The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more » Click to Skip Ahead Couscous has become an increasingly popular grain in people’s diets because it’s delicious, versatile, and healthy. If you make couscous often and have a dog, you might have wondered if this food is safe to give to your pup. After all, rice is safe for dogs to eat (and good for them if they have to be on a bland diet), and couscous is practically the same thing, right? While couscous...
Irish Setter Lab Mix: Info, Pictures, Care & Facts
Click Below to Skip Ahead Maybe you have decided to breed a dog, or you’re at least researching your options. There might also be a one-off chance that you spotted a dog that got your attention on a rescue or shelter page. Regardless of why you’re curious about the Irish Setter Lab mix, we have all of the details for you. Granted, this dog combination won’t be for every family, but they certainly acclimate to a variety of lifestyles. In this article, we’re going to go over a little about the hybrid themselves along...
Affengriffon Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care, & Facts
Click Below to Skip Ahead People initially bred dogs for specific functions. Many were utilitarian, like hunting companions or draft animals. However, things started to change around 180 years ago. Suddenly, conformation and looks became important. Fast forward to the late 1980s, and hybrids became the popular thing, with the Labradoodle leading the pack. But now, there are many designer dogs, just like the Affengriffon. Let’s learn more about this designer breed just below. Breed Overview Height: 7–11 inches Weight: 7–12...
Wheaten Terrier Husky Mix: Info, Pictures, Care & More
Click Below to Skip Ahead The Wheaten Terrier Husky mix combines the Soft-Haired Wheaten Terrier with the Siberian Husky. Both breeds are known for being loyal and loving and have a playful side. Owners should provide a lot of daily exercise and mental stimulation and be prepared for a dog with an independent streak. Breed Overview Height: 17-22 inches Weight: 35–60 pounds Lifespan: 12–15 years Colors: White, tan, brown, black Suitable for: Active families who want a loving but independent companion Temperament: Loyal, loving,...
Why Do Dogs Like Tennis Balls So Much? 5 Interesting Reasons & FAQ
Click to Skip Ahead Even if you aren’t a dog person, everybody knows our canine pals can’t get enough of playing with tennis balls. They’re fun to chase and enjoyable to chew, and tennis balls are a simple enrichment solution almost any owner can use for bonding and working out with their dog. It might seem arbitrary that the tennis ball became the universally agreed upon playtime toy, but when we consider all their unique benefits over other toys, it’s no wonder dogs adore the fuzzy green orbs. Here’s everything...
Blue Blood Cane Corso Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care & Facts
Click to Skip Ahead The Blue Blood Cane Corso is a hybrid dog breed that’s a cross between the Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog and the Cane Corso. These dogs are a relatively new hybrid breed, and they’re prized for their protectiveness and fierce loyalty. Blue Blood Cane Corsos are highly intelligent dogs with a strong work ethic. However, they’re not the best pets for everyone. They’re recommended for experienced dog owners and require a serious commitment to training. When matched with the right dog owner, Blue Blood...
Why Do Male Dogs Have Nipples? Explanation & 6 Possible Concerns
Click to Skip Ahead Have you noticed that even though you definitely have a boy dog (you’ve checked), you also couldn’t help but see the little nips hanging below, too. Do male dogs even have nipples? Why on earth would they? After all, they aren’t nursing a litter of puppies. In this article, we will explore the male dog anatomy a little to see what purpose these little appendages serve—and how you can tell the difference between a nipple and a problem. Let’s get into it. Why Male Dogs Have Nipples Male dogs...
What Are Those Black Spots on My Dog’s Skin?
Many dogs develop black spots or dark patches on their skin. While some of these blemishes are harmless, others signal the presence of a more serious problem. Skin problems are common in dogs, and include everything from allergies to yeast infections. But what does it mean when your dog develops flat black spots or stains on his skin? This is also a common issue, and can have a variety of causes ranging from benign to serious. Read on to find out what these black patches might mean, and what you can do about them. SKIN INFECTIONS As always, a...
Two Days After Bringing Home New Rescue Dog, Family Learns She Can Detect Seizures
This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Submit your own rescue story here. Your story just might be the next to be featured on our blog! Our family headed to the Tacoma Animal Shelter when we were finally ready to adopt a dog again, after the loss of our precious Saki. In a cage, shaking all alone, was a sweet puggle; her name was Moochie. She had just been put out that morning. PHOTO: ALI SWEENEY Moochie had been fostered during her first few months of life, as she had been injured and needed surgery shortly after she was...
Nicotine Testing: The Hidden Torture of Helpless Animals
The world of nicotine product testing on animals is fraught with ethical concerns and scientific inaccuracies. Animal testing for nicotine products has been criticized for being both inhumane and scientifically flawed. The dark side of nicotine testing on animals is rife with cruelty and misleading data, and innocent creatures are paying the price. Photo: PexelsNicotine product testing on animals is fraught with ethical concerns. Unethical Practices in Nicotine Testing Nicotine product testing on animals involves subjecting them to harsh...
Double Trouble? Manic and Lorraina vs Nature
Hi, I’m Allison! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my three mixed-breed dogs from Thailand, Jelly, Lorraina, and Manic. Before I moved to the US with my dog trio (and husband) in tow, I made sure that they had a place they could explore outside. In Thailand, the dogs had free-range of the neighborhood but never went too far. I loved that they could run around, explore nature, and get exercise. At their new home, they had over two fenced-in acres of wooded land to call their playground. Now, interacting with...
Affen Tzu: Pictures, Info, Care Guide & More
Click Below to Skip Ahead The Affen Tzu is a Shih Tzu and Affenpinscher mix. These adorable hybrid dogs make fantastic companions and useful watchdogs despite their small size. Their friendly and extroverted nature makes them an absolute riot, but they may not be the right dog for every family. Read on to learn more about this mixed breed to see if it’ll be the right fit for your lifestyle. Breed Overview Height: 8–12 inches Weight: 9–17 pounds Lifespan: 11–15 years Colors: Black, white, brindle, liver, blue, silver,...
BARK Air Could Change the Air Travel Game for Dogs and Their Humans
Flying with your dog has never been more comfortable or luxurious, thanks to BARK Air. This innovative airline, designed specifically for dogs and their human companions, offers a unique travel experience that prioritizes the comfort and happiness of furry passengers. Photo: PexelsBARK Air offers a luxury travel experience exclusively for dogs and their owners. Luxury in the Skies for Canine Companions BARK Air’s inaugural flight took off recently, transporting six dogs and 11 humans from New York to Los Angeles. The pampered pooches...
Affenchon: Pictures, Info, Care Guide & More
Click Below to Skip Ahead Between their adorable looks and entertaining personalities, you can rest assured that the Affenpinscher and Bichon Frise’s mixed-breed offspring bring irresistibly lovable energy to the home. Affenpinscher-Bichon mixes, or Affenchons, are rare crosses worthy of attention for anyone looking for a bright, adaptable dog that will fit well in any environment. If you’re wondering whether this one-of-a-kind cross can make the ideal addition to your family, we’ll explore what to expect with this dive into...
Stray Dog Endears Himself to Stranger By ‘Playing Possum’ When She Greets Him
This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Submit your own rescue story here. Your story just might be the next to be featured on our blog! Driving to work one day through the barrio area of Pacific Coast Highway, I saw a man walking a German Shepherd on a leash, with a small, curly-haired, whitish dog trailing happily behind them. PHOTO: PIXABAY / ALEXA I thought, “How cute, the little guy gets to be off lead,” but my delight turned into anger and panic when the man whirled around and tried kicking at the little...
Rodent Ulcers in Dogs: Our Vet Explains Signs, Causes & Treatments
VET APPROVED The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more » Click to Skip Ahead The term “rodent ulcer” sounds awful, doesn’t it? Thankfully, these ulcers have nothing to do with rats (or any rodent, for that matter). Additionally, they are neither life-threatening nor particularly uncomfortable, though they can be a bit of a nuisance. Rodent ulcers are red skin ulcers that typically appear on the lips and face of affected dogs. While these ulcers are fairly...
Austin Pets Alive! Responds to AAC Closing Intake During Busiest Week of the Year
Jul 02, 2024 In the wake of Austin Animal Center (AAC) closing intake during the busiest sheltering week of the year, Austin Pets Alive! (APA!) is calling on the community to adopt or foster a pet before July 4. “It’s an immensely hard time for shelter animals and the people caring for them in Austin right now, especially for medium to large dogs,” said APA! president and CEO Dr. Ellen Jefferson. “We wish we could take in even more animals from AAC, but our Town Lake location is also full to the brim, and we’re...
Stray Dog Saved by Heroic Milwaukee Bus Driver on a Rainy Day
A Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) bus driver, Stephany K., recently went above and beyond her regular duties. This inspiring story of compassion took place on a rainy Monday when Stephany was driving her route, demonstrating the kindness and community spirit inherent in the people of Milwaukee. Photo: PexelsMilwaukee bus driver Stephany K. rescued a lost dog on a busy street.. Spotting a Stray in Distress The incident began as Stephany navigated her bus along West Vliet Street, near North 40th Street and Washington Park. Despite the...
Fishing Cats Face Extinction as Wetlands Disappear Across Asia
Fishing cats (Prionailurus viverrinus) are medium-sized wildcats uniquely adapted to life in wetlands and mangrove forests across South and Southeast Asia, including India, Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Sri Lanka. Despite their remarkable adaptations, fishing cats face numerous threats that jeopardize their survival. Photo: Adobe Stock / breakingthewallsHuman-wildlife conflict in Bangladesh is causing frequent fishing cat deaths. Human-Wildlife Conflicts in Bangladesh In Bangladesh, fishing cats often find themselves in direct conflict with...
