How the English Bulldog Came to Be

The English Bulldog breed is loved by hundreds of thousands of people all over the world. Bulldogs are famous for their peculiar flat face and their chubby appearance. However, things went wrong over the last few decades: what used to be a strong athletic breed turned into a bag of severe health conditions.

Initially, the English Bulldog was, as you can guess it, used for bullfighting. Farmers weren’t wondering how to breed English bulldogs for work or families; it was only to perform in the bullring. The real reason why they have been bred with a flat face was for them to avoid being pinched by a bull. And because Bulldogs became known for their amazing results against bulls, they turned into icons of manliness power and strength.

In Britain, the Cruelty to Animals Act 1835 put an end to bullfighting and the breed quickly transitioned to a family dog thanks to Bill George, a Victorian-era dog trader.

Extreme Breeding Started
Families in the United States and the United Kingdom loved English bulldogs for its appearance, rather than its fighting abilities. So this is when breeders had the sick idea to exaggerate this characteristic to make the breed stand out even more.

Because people loved this feature, there was always a buyer for a more expensive flatter-faced bulldog. The problem is, a flat face is definitely healthy to a certain point. And as you probably know, we are way past that point within the bulldog breed. Way, way past that point.

And the problem with extreme dog breeding is that these dog breeders, for many of them, believe they are not doing anything wrong. After all, they saw all bulldogs back then with flat faces, and they thought that a little flatter wouldn’t hurt anybody. However, when thousands of bulldog breeders think that very same thing, over decades, we reach the atrocious current situation.

Inbreeding Coefficient Increased
When dog breeders want to exaggerate a trait, they use what is called inbreeding or linebreeding. In genetics, inbreeding means the mating of very closely related partners. The power of inbreeding is that the genetic material is very similar to the parents since they are part of the same family. Therefore, the puppies from this litter will all look very similar and have characteristics fixed on them.

So, because dog breeders know how dog breeding works and understand that with inbreeding you get visibly better and faster results, they started abusing it. Instead of doing it once in a blue moon, they inbred their Bulldogs over several generations. It worked — the breed becomes flatter-faced than ever.

Along with inherent issues due to being a brachycephalic breed, the English Bulldog breed reached a high inbreeding coefficient. Meaning, the average pool of specimens within the breed average a coefficient of inbreeding of 10%, this is over the double of the average amongst all purebred dogs. The Imperial College in England has studied COI averages for 10 breeds at around 4%. Bulldogs double that. A 25% inbreeding coefficient is equivalent to a mother-to-son breeding.

With intense inbreeding, the genetic diversity of the entire breed decreases. The same genes (from related dogs) keep on being bred to each other, so there is no external blood and genetic material being added. Therefore, if one dog is a carrier of a genetic disease, it will be passed on to every single generation down the line. After decades, these genetic diseases start adding up to a point where most bulldogs are carriers, or victims, of one or multiple health conditions.

Over-breeding Was The Final Point
Despite all health issues, English Bulldogs are still loved. They are an example of dog breeding going incredibly wrong. However, a lot of want-to-be heroes have started their small-scale programs trying to save the breed using various dog breeding techniques (crossbreeding, grading up, etc.) And this is problematic. It is an unconcerted effort from various breed fanciers to breed a lot of so-called healthy (healthier) dogs in a short time span in order to help the breed regain vitality. Nobody is monitoring, nobody is assessing, nobody gives any feedback. Again, it is just about the breeder and its dogs, with no higher authority sanctioning the quality, whether good or bad, of the new bulldog puppies.

Sadly but, perhaps expectedly, the American Kennel Club is somewhat silent about the entire English Bulldog’s situation. The Bulldog Breed Council and the Bulldog Club of America are great at conducting surveys and publishing health articles, but the breed is passed this education stage. It needs to be saved. Urgently. Publishing another blog post about hip dysplasia or skin infections due to fat rolls is redundant; these articles already exist.

People like me and other breed fanciers cannot save the breed without the help and guidance from a higher authority. The scattered effort provided by several Bulldog breeders these days is not sincere: most of them use that “improving the bulldog breed” tagline as a marketing ploy. And it works, a lot of people go ahead and spend double the amount just because they want to believe that their bulldog is healthier than the others.

How To Breed Healthier Bulldogs?
Unfortunately, breeding healthier bulldogs in today’s world would mean bringing healthy blood from a sister breed. Most purebred bulldogs are carrying health conditions within them, so breeding even the two healthiest bulldogs would result in an affected litter. It is somewhat too late to find quality blood within the pool of purebred English Bulldogs today.

Therefore, the only solution is to find appropriate dogs from related bull breeds and allow their breeding and labeling as purebred English Bulldogs. I insist on the labeling as purebred bulldogs (even if technically, they wouldn’t be) because prospects buyers will only buy a bulldog if it is a purebred; the AKC for decades has worked hard promoting registered dogs and it worked. People want a purebred dog, so it has to be labeled as such.

Breeding dogs take time, so it will take years to see a regain in health within the English Bulldog breed. This is why many breeders don’t even start improving their breeding program; they may never see the results. A long and slow process is very unappealing, in opposition to extreme breeding that gets results immediately, at the next litter.

Overall, the English Bulldog is a wonderful dog breed that went through a lot. It is too far to find a solution within the breed itself; those who want that only delay the doom. A viable solution has to come through other closely related breeds. It may take long years but eventually, we will find our beloved English Bulldog back and healthy.

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Dogsitting Quit Failure: How I Failed at Quitting Dog Sitting

How I Failed at Quitting Dog Sitting
By Wendy Newell

After three plus years of being a professional dog sitter, my goal for 2017 was to be a one dog household again. Just Riggins, my adorable 12-year-old pup, and me in our sweet little apartment together. I failed – miserably.

I suppose I should explain why I went into dog sitting in the first place. It was a dark time in my life. My job as VP of Sales required me to constantly be away from home and the time difference with clients and the home office had me working nearly 24/7. The money I was making wasn’t helping with the depression I was feeling, so I did something I’ve never done before – I quit without a new job waiting for me.

Not wanting to go back into sales my career options were limited and Riggins and I needed to eat! To help make ends meet a friend suggested dog sitting. It seemed like a great idea. Dogs are fuzzy balls of happiness. What better way to shake off the blues and make money than to surround yourself with them?

It started slow. One or two dogs now and then and grew into a full-fledged business. My calendar was packed with dog’s names and my phone contacts read “Cooper’s Mom,” “Dragon’s Dad,” “Clover’s Mom” etc. I would have up to 9 dogs chillin’ with me as I watched TV, cuddling in bed, and protecting me from the big bad mailman. It was fantastic!

Honestly, I have never been happier with a job. So, why did I want to quit? For one it was exhausting. The best way to keep a pack of dogs happy and out of trouble is to poop them out. We went on an adventure every day, which was usually a hike on our local trails. This too, started out small and grew as the dogs and my endurance would take us on tougher and longer routes. If I had some extra energetic pups I would often take them on a separate, even longer hike. In the afternoon everyone with four legs would plop down at my feet snoozing away while I worked a part-time job for extra money. No extra zzzzzs for me!

Money. That’s another reason. As fulfilling as my job was it didn’t make me enough cold hard cash to live in pricey Los Angeles. The dirt. OMG, SO MUCH DIRT. It was almost impressive how dirty my house, car, and person would get. When I left my sales job I also had to give up on the wonderful woman who came to clean my house. Without her, it was all up to me and honestly, when you are crazy tired it seems logical to just plop down on dirty sheets. After all the mutts curled around you are just going to leave more fur and grim. Cleaning seemed like a losing battle and I got to the point where I was fine letting it win.

Mental exhaustion. Riggins is my sun and moon, my everything. I knew the pups I took care of were the same to their human family. The main part of my job was to keep them safe. The straw that broke the camel’s back, as they say, was when a teeny tiny chihuahua I was watching ran away. For four days and 12 hours I rarely slept, spending my time roaming the neighborhood day and night searching for little Nikki. I was heartbroken. I kept her mom updated on any progress and each call left me spent, sad, and weeping. With the help of my wonderful friends and neighbors, Nikki was found at almost the same time her mom’s plane touched down. Despite her adventure, the little runner only suffered from mild dehydration.

That was it. I couldn’t do it anymore. I decided to take Riggins and move into a smaller, more affordable, apartment and take on more hours with one of my other jobs. I wrote a letter to my loyal customers and sent it off.

It didn’t take long before I started getting the “but you will still take Romeo right?” messages. I had to explain that it just wasn’t possible but of course I LOVED ALL THE PUPS SO MUCH! I missed them. Riggins missed them. With my landlady/friend/dog lover’s permission, I started taking on a guest dog now and then. I must be much more selective now. I can only take one, maybe two, at a time. They should be well mannered and get along with the house pups which include Riggins and 3 chihuahuas.

I was known in the dog sitting world to be good with super energetic, rowdy and hard to handle dogs. My long hikes were my secret weapon, but now with a full-time desk job that is out of the question. That means I had to send many of the pups I love on to other sitters but luckily, for me, there is still a handful that doesn’t mind lounging with Riggins while I work and are satisfied with a stroll around the neighborhood in the evening for exercise.

Dog sitting is hard. It’s physically and mentally exhausting. I have scars on my legs and hands that will never fully fade. It seems illogical to have any dogs join Riggins and me in our home.
Then I think about when Boone, a cuddly Lab, lays on my feet as I sip wine in the backyard, or Cooper, a beautiful Golden, lays his head on my stomach while we sleep or Sadie, an adorable mix, stares at me lovingly from her perch on the top of the sofa, and it melts my heart.

Oh, dog sitting – I can’t quit you!

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Santorini Street Dogs Living the Resort Life

Many organizations have stepped up to help homeless dogs abroad. (Photo: Sergio Beristain)

Have you ever noticed the sheer number of stray dogs roaming around the resort you are currently staying at or the number of lonely faces while walking through the town center? These animals are only looking for a bit of attention, a meal not scavenged from a trash can or a friendly pet on the head. You grant their request and give them the love and attention they are seeking but the night ends and you have to retreat back to your room or head out for a night of fun because you are on vacation. 

So what happens then? These lonely animals are then given the run of the resort, tired and without a home to call their own.

Canadian photographer Sergio Beristain recently caught a glimpse of the life these dogs lead when the sun goes down and the resort becomes a ghost town, while on vacation at a Greek Island resort located in Santorini. He stumbled across a tired dog sleeping on a beach chair and all this poor boy done was stare and return to his slumber, storing energy for the tiring day ahead.

Santorini is the locale numerous street dogs call home, as are many other locations world-wide, but unlike these other locations the local residents’ band together to give year-round care to these wandering souls. According to the local citizens Beristain spoke to, food and water are left daily on the street for these dogs and care is offered to those truly in need. Tourists have also gotten in on the action, donating supplies before their stay at the resort is over.

While as heart-warming as these acts of kindness are, something about it can still tug at the heartstrings of even the non-animal lovers. The sadness comes from the thought that while food and water are definitely a priority for these majestic creatures, it cannot compare to a loving home with attention and affection on a daily basis. It is a lonely road for these dogs and a long road at times. The sad truth is while the street dogs of Santorini are granted a better lot in life, the majority of strays world-wide are in far worse conditions.

If you find yourself wanting to help these animals and other animals globally, there are numerous rescue groups whose sole purpose is to bring dogs from exotic locations to the U.S. and Canada to find their forever home. Donations are deeply appreciated and those who volunteer are a blessing. Some of the organizations fighting to make a difference in the lives of these innocent souls are Compassion Without Borders and Soi Dog Foundation.

Until the forever home for these beautiful creatures are found, give thanks a higher power that there is still humanity left somewhere in this world. Such as the humanity and grace exhibited by the residents of Santorini who continue to do whatever they can to alleviate the stress and suffering of these beach dogs. With any luck, someday this world will not have a need for a shelter or rescue organization and instead a dog is loved and wanted.

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Top 7 Therapy Dog Breeds

While many different animals have been used in pet therapy, it’s hard to beat man’s best friend. Therapy dogs do a very important job – they can brighten up the day of a child recovering in hospital, comfort someone suffering from anxiety, and give affection and companionship to the elderly.

Any dog can become a therapy dog, providing they have the right temperament, though some breeds tend to be better suited than others.

So, let’s find out which are the 7 top dog breeds used for therapy:

1. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is not only the most popular dog breed in the US but is also commonly used as a therapy dog. This is in large part due to their gentle temperament and happy-go-lucky nature.

Labs absolutely love to please you, so training them is usually a breeze. They tend to be very perceptive as well as affectionate, so they are great for people suffering from depression or anxiety disorders and can be used with kids and adults alike.

2. St Bernard
Don’t be fooled by their size – St Bernards are gentle giants, and oh-so-cuddleable. Children just love to play and nuzzle into their soft fur, and this dog is glad of the attention.

Their patience and love of being around people make them a great candidate for use as a therapy dog. Who can resist smiling at the sheer size of this calm creature?

For those who find larger dogs daunting, a smaller dog may be a better choice…

3. Pug
Pugs are good for people who can be intimidated by larger dogs because, well, they’re just plain cute! Not to mention that their sociable, playful nature is hugely entertaining and will have most people giggling in no time.

Pugs often work with children and the elderly due to their small size, and their sunny demeanors usually mean they are well-matched to those with mood disorders.

4. Poodle

As well as service dogs, Poodles are often used for therapy. This is no surprise, as they are one of the most intelligent and obedient dogs.

These fluff balls are friendly and loving but not too excitable, so they have just the right energy for the job. Their mane of curls also makes them irresistible to pet and cuddle.

The poodle’s calm nature makes them a good match for people with autism, particularly children.
5. Greyhound

Greyhounds are quite the dark horse when it comes to therapy breeds, as most people don’t expect to see them in such a list.

They are, however, incredibly calm, quiet, and affectionate dogs that can provide comfort to patients in a hospital or those in a retirement home setting.

If you’re after a dog that rarely barks, Greyhounds are a good bet.

6. Pomeranian

Little Poms have the whole package – they’re small, cute, fluffy, and affectionate. They have a tendency to bark, so they need to be trained to stay quiet and calm.

They are usually used as therapy dogs with the elderly as they don’t need much play or exercise, and they’re happy to simply sit on someone’s lap and keep them company.

7. Beagle
Beagles, when properly trained, can be wonderful therapy dogs. They are usually confident, bouncy, and always ready to play. They do tend to be somewhat stubborn, so they will need a firm handler.

Beagles just love human contact. They tend to get on very well with children, but they also fit in well in retirement and nursing homes.

Conclusion
Therapy dogs provide comfort to people in hospitals, schools, disaster areas, nursing homes, and retirement homes. They also give affection to those with mood disorders and learning difficulties.

Any breed can train to work as a therapy dog, but some are used more commonly than others. Labradors are a top choice for therapy dog due to their gentle natures. For those who are a little dog shy, a smaller breed like a Pug, Pomeranian, or a Beagle would make a good match.

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How to Stop a Dog from Eating Poop!

Dogs are the kind of furry, lovable creatures that just make you want to squeal in happiness and swoon over the cuteness of their faces. Suddenly, the mood changes as you realize that furry ball of sweetness is currently chomping down on poop. Yeah, poop. Good luck getting a kiss now!

This habit is more common in dogs than most will admit. Approximately 10 percent of dogs will eat their own poop whereas 85 percent of dogs will feast on the poop of other animals. This strange and disgusting habit is called Coprophagia, and is defined as “A dog who eats their own poop”. If your dog exhibits signs of Coprophagia and makes a lunch of their own feces, it doesn’t necessarily mean there is something wrong. Dogs tend to eat their own poop (and cats too) for a variety of reasons ranging from a digestive issue to stress-related issues. Perhaps your dog isn’t receiving a properly balanced diet to suit their needs or you just brought home a rescue dog which can be stressful for both the owner and canine.

Why Does a Dog Eat Poop?
-There is an imbalance in their digestive processes and they are trying to correct the issue
-Your dog is fed a primarily kibble based diet and they are lacking in enzymes
-Dogs suffering from anxiety or stress
-Puppies weaned too young from their mother
-Puppy mill dogs who have to fight for food and forced in a crate for hours on end with no stimulation or affection

How to Stop Your Dog from Eating Poop
There are several tips available for dog owners whose puppies won’t stop eating their own poop. Some of the tips can be executed by the dog owners and others would need a helping hand from a professional. A partial list of tips to curb your dog of their feces-loving ways is:

1. Provide your dog with a nutritionally balanced diet, with added supplements; enzymes, minerals, etc.
2. Remove your dog’s feces as soon as possible
3. If your dog is trained for a potty pad, remove it from their presence until they are ready to use it
4. If your dog does their business in the yard, consider putting a small amount of hot sauce over the feces to deter the dog from ingesting more
5. Provide both physical and mental stimulation – engage your dog in a long walk or game of tug-of-war to prevent boredom or stress
6. If the problem persists, consider the use of over-the-counter medications that can help curb the urge for a snack

Conclusion
If your dog is a closet poop muncher, you will probably feel equal parts disgusted and worried. Luckily, a dog should not develop any major health problems indulging in the unpleasant snack of poop. Always talk to your veterinarian if your dog persists with this behavior as it could show signs of a pancreas or digestive issue. With a little bit of patience and effort, you can be back to lapping up the kisses and love of your furry friend, without wondering just where their mouth has been!

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California Becomes the First State to Sell Rescue Pets in Pet Stores

Fetch! Pet Care’s Erica Kei with her rescue dog, Dolce.

There is a problem plaguing not only the United States but other countries all over the world. This problem is stray animals crowding shelters and roaming the streets without a place to call their own. It is a sad phenomenon that, until recently, showed no signs of slowing down.

California is aiming to become the first state to slow this trend of unwanted animals and recently implemented a new legislation that requires all pet stores in the entire state to sell exclusively rescue dogs, cats and even rabbits adopted from shelters and non-profit organizations. 

This new legislation will bring awareness to the general public of the growing number of rescue animals of various species seeking their forever homes. California Governor Jerry Brown signed the legislation, also known as Assembly Bill 485, or, The Pet Rescue and Adoption Act, in September 2017 and is slated to go into effect state-wide on January 1, 2019.
Bill 485 is written to state:

“All dogs, cats, and rabbits offered for retail sale in California to be obtained from animal shelters or non-profit rescue organizations”.

The end goal of this bill and the reason for this measure is to drastically reduce the number of animals sold through both shelters and retail pet stores purchased through mass breeding operations or as the media along with the general public labelling them “puppy mills” or “kitten factories”.

Assembly member Patrick O’Donnell, sector D-Long Beach, is the author of Bill 485 and has stated to the media “This is a big win for our four-legged friends”. It will also reduce the amount of taxes that California residents pay to annually house and euthanize animals living in over-crowded shelters. According to financial reviews, California taxpayers spend more than $250 million annually in support of this cause.

The support for this controversial bill was strong from animal lovers across the state and rescue operations for the awareness it is bringing to the amount of rescue animals not only in California but also worldwide. Numerous founders were overjoyed at this historic bill and were proud to say California was the first to offer legislation of this type.

Opposition was found however, in the participants of the American Kennel Club and California Retailers Association. The American Kennel Club is an exclusive organization where dog owners can nationally register their purebred canines, provided they fit a select list of criteria. They also promote and organize events for purebred owners, such as the Westminster Dog Show. The California Retailers Association is a non-profit organization that advocates for the retail industry and its large number of workers. Sheila Goffe, Vice President of Public Relations for the American Kennel Club, said in a statement released to the media that “Bill 485 blocks all of California’s pet lovers from having access to professional, licensed, and ethical commercial breeders”.

Arguments can be made for either side of this debate but there is one solid fact, and that is the number of rescue and stray animals is growing almost daily. Shelters are over-crowded and resources limited. Volunteers only have so many hours in a day to give to these precious creatures and funds only stretch so far when hiring full-time staff along with paying for necessary medical treatments. Perhaps this Bill will only exist for a short period of time or last for a lifetime, but whatever the outcome, people need to step up and help our furry friends.

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Love pets? Interested in a new & rewarding career?

If you ask a hundred people on the street, the majority of them will confirm they have some form of love and compassion for all animals, both big or small, furry or scaly, or even those considered somewhat odd. Maybe you are one of those people who wants to shelter and love every animal you see or perhaps you hold a special place in your heart for a particular canine companion. If you are the type of person to gush excitedly over pets and would not think twice before dropping to the ground (or floor) to greet this majestic creature face to face, then you are hands down a pet-lover… join the club!

What if we told you that it is possible to nurture this love of pets while also earning a living? Seems a little too good to be true right? We promise you it isn’t! By operating a franchise with Fetch! Pet Care, you are guaranteed to find success & happiness. A combination of a fatter wallet and lots of furry love while being your own boss? Sounds like a winning combination to us!

We are the nation’s leading provider of professional pet care services. With rapid growth in numerous states, we offer a range of services from dog walking to in-house pet sitting & more. With a specialized support team at every turn and weekly conferences with upper management, you will be fully prepared to operate your own pet care operation.

Our amazing support team will book your appointments for you, provide you with comprehensive insurance for all related factors of owning a franchise along with offering daily 24-hour support. You will also have available to you email, phone & online live chat services to effectively manage any issues that may arise or answer any questions the moment they come about.
If your territory is currently in a target area or in an area where the consumer demand for service outweighs the providers, you are already ahead of the game! We provide our franchisees with all the training needed to handle everything from difficult customers to managing time and space effectively. Training is conducted in a series of steps so that you don’t feel overwhelmed by an influx of information. Our training seminars will teach you everything from how to schedule a routine for a new puppy to providing specialty services. You will learn how to handle and maintain top tier level of care for senior pets or how to handle off-leash adventures, for example. You will also learn everything you need to provide over-night or in-house pet sitting services.

So now that all the facts have been laid out for you to read, why not hop on over to our website and read about how many pet owners recommend and trust Fetch! Pet Care for all their pet care needs? Maybe you’ll find your new career and have fun while earning top dollar along with enjoying the flexibility of being your own boss!  

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The facts about fish depression

When we discuss animal depression, it is commonly in reference to the feline and canine species, but not normally fish! It seems a little strange that a fish could be suffering from depression when the term is defined as “feelings of severe despondency and dejection.”

However, throughout numerous studies, it has been shown that fish, in fact, exhibit multiple symptoms of depression the same as any other animal or even humans do. A lethargic fish that tends to float through their bowl, hovering on the bottom and those that show signs of a decreased appetite can be deemed depressed.

According to some of the scientists who have conducted a variety of studies using fish as subjects, fish can actually be a beneficial model to understanding depression in not only animals but also humans due to similar neurochemistry makeups. The special bonds between pets and their owners can lead to answers regarding depression and the effects on relationships when studied properly.

The effectiveness and side effects of anti-depressant medication were similar enough to fish and humans that it leads to both new answers and new questions. Studies are currently being conducted using fish, in particular, zebrafish – a small fish that is found in tropical freshwater, to develop more effective anti-depressant medication. Zebrafish are quickly becoming the go-to fish for clinical studies because of its transparent body and rapid reproductive rate. They also share approximately 70% of genetic makeup with humans.

Fish are generally thought to be simple organisms with a sole purpose in mind, but the reality is the brain functions and moods can vastly differ from species to species. A fish can be diagnosed as depressed almost instantaneously when introducing it to new surroundings or a differently decorated bowl. A fish that sinks to the bottom and allows the currents of the water to move it from place to place is most likely depressed. An inactive fish that loses interest in everything from mealtime to exploring can be classified as depressed.

A lack of stimulation and insufficient oxygen is most likely the cause of fish depression, according to Victoria Braithwaite. Braithwaite is a professor of fisheries and biology at Penn State University and has concluded that fish are naturally curious to anything in their view and a lack of this exploration is a sign that something is wrong.

Some scientists argue that instead of depression, fish show more anxiety-based symptoms. Fish and other animals are unable to communicate exactly how they are feeling, so findings are based on previous interactions with the same fish or fish that have been given safe dosages of new medications.

As with humans, interactions can vary from species to individual fish of the same family. So next time you are contemplating a fish as a household pet, go the extra mile and invest in a good sized fish tank with a variety of plants and structures to stimulate your fish and sit back to enjoy the show!

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6 must-know tips for flying with your dog

A long-haul flight is never easy for any dog, even for the most experienced air travelers. There’s indisputably more anxiety for dogs than humans when it comes to travel; it’s simple — dogs don’t necessarily have a choice when it comes to traveling. It can be daunting since the road ahead of us is oftentimes unknown. Therefore, the more you prepare your dog for air travel, the smoother the journey will be. The bark-worthy news is that I’ve sniffed out 6 easy ways to make in-cabin air travel easy and healthy for our 4-legged companions. Here’s the scoop…

#1 Ease Their Way In

Be a savvy traveler! First things first, don’t book a flight and expect your dog to wing it, especially if she has never flown before. Unless your dog is already highly experienced, chances are she needs to be eased into air travel. Road trips and train rides are great ways to get dogs comfortable with the motion of being on a plane. Once your dog has gone on a couple road trips or even train rides, she can advance to quick hour-long domestic flights to get acquainted with the airport, and of course, the plane itself. Gradually increase the flight duration until your dog is familiar and comfortable with the entire process. As for me, I went on several 6-8 hour long road trips and several shorter flights before my I felt comfortable flying with my dog from San Francisco to NYC.

#2 Choose The Right Dog Carrier

Choosing the right dog carrier is key.  When shopping around for a dog carrier, bring your dog with you for a “test-sit.” Make sure there’s enough room for your dog to turn around completely, sit, and lay down in it. If your dog appears tense, she is very likely uncomfortable; so, do your homework and search diligently until you find the right fit. Having soft durable padding within the carrier is also important to help Fido feel comfortable. Keep in mind that airlines (especially if you have connecting flights) may differ in acceptable carrier size so always check the airline website for their required dimensions before purchasing your dog carrier. Some airlines also have a total weight limit (which normally includes the weight of your dog, too). It’s a matter of finding comfort and meeting the airlines’ requirements at the same time.

As a frequent traveler, I have two dog carriers depending on the airline that I’m flying; the first one is a pretty spacious roller bag/backpack that fits perfectly under most U.S. airline seats. As it comes with multiple features, it weighs approximately 3.4 lbs.

My second carrier is your average soft lightweight carrier that weighs a little over 1 lb.; although it offers an opening in the front, it doesn’t offer as much space than my other carrier so I only use it if I have to meet a strict weight limit. I once flew an airline that had an 11 lb. maximum for both my dog and her carrier so I didn’t want to take any chances!

#3 Start Dog Carrier Training Early

The concept is to transform the carrier into a wondrous haven.

Once you’ve found the carrier that is right for your dog, you’ll want to start training as early as possible to ensure that she feels familiar with and comfortable in it long before your scheduled flight. The concept is to transform the carrier into a wondrous haven. As soon as you bring the carrier home, place your dog’s favorite blanket, toy, and treats inside. Hiding treats inside the carrier at the beginning of each training session will entice your dog to go in to sniff around. After several sessions of uncovering yummy treasures, she will eventually associate the carrier as a place worthy of their wet noses. Allow her to sniff around freely for treats during the first few days of training. Gradually, increase her time inside the carrier to about 3-5 minutes daily and work up to an hour or until she appears to feel comfortable and secure inside.

#4 Book An Evening Flight

The experience of air travel can easily cause stress as your dog is thrown out of her daily grind without certainty of the road ahead. One effortless way to help your dog through a long flight is to opt for an evening flight so that Fido could at least stay on her sleeping schedule. Booking a flight near or during bedtime will likely help your dog sleep through the flight. The longer she sleeps on the flight, the shorter and smoother the flight will seem to her.

#5 Exercise Before Your Flight Takes Off

As the saying goes, a tired dog is a happy dog. That being said, it’s probably fair to say that a tired traveling dog is also a happy traveling dog.

As the saying goes, a tired dog is a happy dog. That being said, it’s probably fair to say that a tired traveling dog is also a happy traveling dog. I don’t recommend excessive exercise or extreme physical activity, however, adding a couple extra minutes of exercise or playtime could help ease your dog’s way into air travel. Feeling tired during the flight normally equates to superb sleep. Again, the more sleep she gains, the shorter and smoother the flight will seem. If your dog is up for it, I recommend a good 40-60 minute walk right before heading to the airport before a long flight so she can then lick her chops while dreaming about beef jerky treats thousands of miles up in the air!

#6 Limit Water Intake Right Before & During Your Flight

After exercising your dog, offer her fresh clean water and food. Never deny a dog of fresh clean water, but do be strategic when providing water right before and during the flight since you cannot easily relieve your dog on the plane (unless you have pee pads in the carrier). I choose to limit my dog’s water intake as soon we arrive at the airport. Most airports have areas designed for dogs to relieve themselves outside (and sometimes even inside). Offer your dog water (and of course, food) right after her walk before heading to the airport, and then once every 4 hours or so until landing. My veterinarian advised me that healthy adult dogs shouldn’t have a problem holding their bladder for 10 hours, but I still exercise this practice with caution. One option is to place a pee pad in the carrier just in case your dog absolutely has to relieve herself.

What are your tips for traveling by plane with your dog? Let us know in the comments below or tweet us @FetchPetCare

Author: Roger Wellington

Edited by: Erica Kei

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Franchising with Fetch! Pet Care

Looking for a way to make a comfortable living while enjoying the freedom of being your own boss? Do you have a love and compassion towards all animals and want nothing more than to make sure homeowner’s pets are well looked after in a comfortable home setting? If you answered yes to one or both of these questions, why not look into franchising with us? Fetch! Pet Care is the nation’s largest and most trusted provider of pet sitting and dog walking services providing care to over 1,500 communities nation-wide. We are constantly growing and evolving to match increased demand for these exclusive services and you can have a piece of that exciting pie!

Deciding to own and operate your own franchise can be both exciting and overwhelming at times and even a little scary when faced with all the Corporate and personal decisions that you are required to make. We understand these concerns and are here to help you, our newest pack member. Our team has put together a comprehensive step-by-step package that outlines the entire process of applying for and being granted the rights to own and operate your own franchise. Each step of the franchise process will take anywhere from 10 minutes to four weeks for on-site informative training. The in-depth training process helps you, the franchisee, learn the skills needed to run a successful franchise from hiring a competent workforce to dealing with any issues that may arise when working in the customer service industry. The training process is included in your Fetch! Pet Care franchise fee and is conducted on-site at our Corporate headquarters in Dayton, Ohio.

Now that you are ready to open the doors to your business and start seeing those furry (or non-furry) faces filled with happiness, you are still not alone. Fetch! Pet Care operates a full Franchise Support Center to offer ongoing assistance by your preferred means, whether that be by phone, email or even web conferencing. As an owner of a Fetch! Pet Care franchise, you will be invited to increase your knowledge and share with other owners of the franchise through weekly strategy sessions conducted by company management. An online franchise discussion group is also available for you to share ideas and chat with fellow owners both in your immediate area and those across long distances.

The majority of households in both The United States and other parts of the world have at least one pet. Some households can have a variety of pets and while we love our furry family members, it can be difficult when you have to leave them during working hours or for longer periods of time, whether it be for work or pleasure. Pets can feel their owner’s anxiety which makes them uneasy in return. Why not try to alleviate some of this for both the pets and the pet owners while offering them a safe, comforting place for their fur babies to relax and hang out in their absence? Because with Fetch! Pet Care, the goal is that everyone and everything is completely looked after. As we like to say, “We’ve got your tail covered!

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Dog Pioneers: Meet 8 Dogs That Made History

Every pet is unique, and each one of them is a pioneer to their owner: the first gerbil you had as a kid, the first dog you raised with your spouse, a cat who exhibited a particularly odd behavior you’ve never witnessed in any other.

But beyond the threshold of your own house and heart, it takes a special kind of critter to make it into the history books as a pioneer of comparable note to the great women and men that we celebrate over the years.

And so the folk at Canine Cottages decided it was time to highlight a few of the pioneering hounds that have left their mark not just on individuals, but on all of the human culture: those dogs who’ve led the way with their own unique brand of excellence in dogginess. This new series of illustrations are worthy of any commemorative stamp set!

1. RUPEE

The romantic, somewhat Disneyfied story goes that Rupee – a street puppy surviving on scraps amongst the bustle of Ladakh, India – was rescued by traveler Joanne Lefson and nursed to health before going on to become the first dog to climb Mount Everest.

The truth, if humbler, is just as charming. They may only have found it as far as base camp, some 10,000 feet short of the world’s highest peak, but Rupee bounded ahead most of the way, went on record as the first dog to reach Everest base camp (probably there were some unofficial visitors before) and became a symbol of hope to strays everywhere, as the poster-pup for ‘Expedition Mutt Everest’ – a campaign to global awareness for homeless dogs.

2. LAIKA

More famous is the first dog – in fact, the first Earth creature – in space. Inspiring an Arcade Fire song, a Swedish art-house movie, a postage stamp, and generations of wannabe space explorers, how many other Russian hounds can claim to be household names?

3. TITINA

On a more Earthly scale, the brown-and-white fox terrier Titina was the first dog to make it to the North Pole. Despite being only 10 inches high, she proved herself worthy of the challenge by scaring off a polar bear with her fierce bark!

4. ASHLEY WHIPPET

On August 5, 1974, Alex Stein threw a Frisbee for his dog Ashley. Only thing was, they were standing in the park at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California during the seventh inning stretch. Once they got out of jail, they established the annual Frisbee Disc Canine Championship.

5. RIN TIN TIN

The Audie Murphy of the canine realm, Rin Tin Tin was rescued from the killing fields of World War I to become an actor of such enormous celebrity that his eventual death would be reported across the nation as part of an emergency news bulletin.

6. SERGEANT STUBBY

While Rin Tin Tin was on his way to stardom, a short brindle bull terrier mutt named Sergeant Stubby stuck it out in the forces and was honored by becoming the first dog to be promoted to his rank through combat.

7. BOBBIE THE WONDER DOG

The 1920s were a big decade for canine pioneers. While Rin Tin Tin and Sergeant Stubby were finding success in their respective fields, Bobbie the two-year-old scotch-collie mix was busy setting the record for the distance covered by a dog finding his way home alone – a stunning 2800 mile, six-month journey!

8. RED DOG

Red Dog was just about as red as dogs come. But in the decade he spent wandering around western Australia bonding with strangers and becoming a local celebrity, he naturally adopted a number of other human-given pseudonyms including Bluey, Tally Ho, Pilbara Wanderer, and Dog of the Northwest.

What will your beloved pets most be remembered for?

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Santa Rosa Family Returns to Fire-Ravaged Home to

Northern California was burning. It seemed to be covering all of Santa Rosa, and the flames were crawling over the hills quickly. Many families, like the Weavers, didn’t have much time to evacuate.

Once Clint and Kathy Weaver realized they were surrounded by wildfires, they grabbed what they could, piled into a car and sped away. They drove through literal walls of flame and although the wooden bridge ahead seemed as though it might be starting to go up in flames, they took their chances and drove across it.

Soon, the Weavers had cleared the worst of the wildfires and made it to safety. Although they made it out of the inferno alive, one family member didn’t make it. Izzy, the family’s 9-year-old Bernese mountain dog, took off in another direction once the chaos of the evacuation began. The Weavers couldn’t save her.

A day or so later, Clint and Kathy’s son, Jack, went back to his parents’ home, the place where he grew up, to see what was left after the fires had died down. As he and his brother-in-law Patrick Widen hiked up the hill toward Patrick’s childhood home, they worried about what they might see as they approached.
Jack held his phone up as he tried to narrate the scene for his parents.

“Almost to the house,” Jack says between breaths, continuing the trek up to his old home. “I can see the vineyards … the anticipation is killing me.”

Soot covered the ground where trees once were. Surprisingly, the family’s vineyards were still standing. A white pickup truck seemed mostly unscathed. The family’s home, though, was gone. It’s understandable that Jack and Patrick didn’t expect to find Izzy alive, but they called for her nonetheless.

“Izzy!” the two called over and over again. “Izzy … here pup!”
They whistled and clapped, and continued to survey the damage.

As they turn a corner up the narrow drive on their parents’ property, they spot something moving near a still-standing pine tree.

“Izzy’s here!” Jack says. “Izzy, come here, baby!”

The big dog comes bounding out of the small clearing and makes a beeline for her family. She’s panting, and she’s dirty, but really, she seems no worse for wear.

Jack’s video, which was meant to just show his parents the results of the wildfires, was posted by him on Facebook, and it has been viewed more than three million times now. The reunion, he said, was a happy one. He dropped his phone to embrace the beloved family dog, and the video ends there.

Jack called his mother, who was staying with family in the San Francisco Bay Area to tell her the good news. “She just lost it,” he said. “… She was really, really happy.” Although the family is devastated by the news about their home and property, having Izzy back with them helped lift their spirits. Many misplaced family pets are being cared for at Sonoma County Animal Services, and the website is updated with photos of the rescued dogs and cats. More than two dozen animals have been reunited with their families.

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5 Simple Tricks To Create A More Conscious Connection With Your Pets

It is easy to forget that animals are living creatures with a beating heart. All too often we as human beings seem to think that we have a monopoly on this planet and that we alone can feel emotion. However, this is not true in the slightest. Many of you may have seen the recent video on social media that was viral recently in which a dog recognized a man that had saved her, and showed her gratitude in a manner which moved each one present to tears. If you have not watched that video, you really should watch it right away!

Simply put, dogs cry, horses can discern facial expressions of humans, cats are smart, chimpanzees express emotions, etc. You could be forgiven for not knowing this, as perhaps our biggest flaw as human beings is the arrogance that we sometimes seem to exude which will inevitably bring about our downfall one day or the other. With that being said, the purpose of this article is not to shed light on philosophy so we will come back to the previous statement in some other article at a future point in time. For now, let us focus on how you can create a more conscious connection with your pets.

1. Understand That Animals Have Emotions

The first step towards creating a more conscious connection with your pets is understanding that they have emotions. This is very important because only with understanding can there be respect. Animals may not emote in the same way we as human beings do, but that does not mean they do not

feel emotion. Just last week I had the misfortune of witnessing a poor dog grieving for his beloved master. His howls and shrieks seemed to pierce through my heart. It was quite apparent that the pain and suffering he felt at that point in time was quite similar to what a human being in the same situation would have gone through. It is not just mere rhetoric; that animals can feel emotion is beyond any debate now. There is a high level of empirical evidence and research data to back this up. It is not just dogs, of course, virtually every animal can feel emotions: chimpanzees, tigers (of course you would likely not really want a fully grown tiger as a pet!), birds – you name it – can feel emotion. Animals are often referred to as sentient beings for this reason.

2. Respect The Animals

Once you understand that animals do have feelings and emotions, it becomes much easier to respect them. Much like humans, animals respond to compassion, respect, and kindness. Brain scans have shown that dogs are as conscious as human children, research suggests that dolphins can send the equivalent of instant holographic pictures to each other – the list goes on and on without even getting into physical prowess where many animals are superior to human beings.

Once animals understand that they are being respected, they develop a closer bond with you and trust you more. This goes a long way in creating a more conscious connection with your pets.

3. Keep The Pet Fit And Healthy. Follow A Routine

Do ensure that you follow a routine and that your pet is fit and healthy at all times. If your pet has any health concerns, it will become irritable and behave unreasonably which will prevent you from developing a more conscious connection with your pets. In the case of a close friend of mine – let us call her Sarah – her pet (a Labrador) became overly aggressive towards strangers and it was later found out that she had significant health problems which made her behave that way. Keeping that in mind, see a vet as often as possible and immediately if you suspect that something is wrong. Also, following a fixed routine also strengthens the bond between a pet and the owner as the former begins to look forward to the activity or outing as soon as he/she senses that it is time. And don’t forget food, as it is one of the primary things that makes a pet either healthy and fit or ill. If you have a dog, for instance, understanding what can dogs eat and not eat will give you a better chance of keeping them fit and healthy.

4. Talk To Your pet – communicate!

Yes, talk! You should talk to your pet just as you would talk to a fellow human being. Many animals are extremely intelligent creatures (the world’s smartest dog reportedly has a vocabulary of 1000 words, just to put that in perspective) and respond well to communication. Again, just like it does with human beings, communication bridges gaps and brings everyone closer to each other. If you wish to develop a more conscious connection with your pet, it is imperative that you talk frequently and communicate. Usually, animals will also respond to communication provided they are feeling alright.

5. Train Your Pet (wherever possible)

As much as possible, ensure that your pet is well trained. Training helps keep your pet fit and obey your orders. This bodes well for your relationship with the pet. Of course, it is not always possible to train your pet – for example, most of you would have no clue about what to say or do if you have fish and that is fair enough; but wherever possible do make an effort.

Now to seal the article, there is that point so many are so skeptical about.

Can Pets And Humans Actually Heal Each Other?

The honest answer to this question is yes, but given that this requires a bit of leap of faith it is perfectly acceptable if you choose to sit on the fence on this one. However, do think about this: when you have a pet – whether it be a dog, a cat, fish or anything else – it becomes a part of your family over time, a near human if you will. There have been known cases of people passing away due to depression of losing a pet and vice-versa. Equally, there have been cases where owners and pets have cured each other’s depression. Therefore, it seems quite clear that pets and humans can actually heal each other.

Conclusion

Your takeaway from this article should be that if you follow the basic premise of the crux of this article, you will go a long way in developing a more conscious connection with your pet. A more conscious connection is nothing but making your pet more receptive to you and vice-versa. Certain people will argue that there is an element of supernatural to this. While that may be true, there is just far too much observatory evidence the other way to dismiss the whole thing. In a nutshell, keep your pet happy, make it feel safe and wanted, take it to the vet from time to time and above all respect and understand it. Your life will be much better for it.

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To Kiss or Not To Kiss: Should You Let Your Dog Kiss Your Face?

You just punched a long shift at your workplace or ran an errand for five minutes and there is no greater feeling than walking in the door upon your return to that affectionate although slobbery greeting from the four-legged member(s) of your family! Sometimes that greeting includes an ear scratch, leg bump, or a big old kiss in the form of your dogs tongue sweeping across your face! Endearing? Yes. Cute? Yes. Unsanitary? Definitely. Animal experts around the globe are in agreement on one scientifically proven fact: It is highly unsanitary for your dog to lick around your face, eyes, and nose! Dogs have been proven to carry various bacteria in their mouths that can be beneficial or non-effective to their overall health. Most of these bacteria however, are not meant to be absorbed by the human body through thin membranes such as our eyes, nose and mouth. Throughout this article, we will explore and outline the reasons why you should not let your dog kiss your face or other exposed areas such as wounds along with the potential consequences of having frequent licks from your furry companion.

Why Do Dogs Show Affection in the Form of a Kiss?

According to Ceasar Millan, licking behaviour(s) stem from ingrained personality traits bred through canines as a means of communication, bonding, grooming, or even psychological problems. Mother dogs show affection to their puppies in a variety of ways to create biological bonds and they use licking as one tool from the moment of birth. The mother dog will “wake” their puppies from their post-partum state through licks, use this method to groom puppies and even teach bathroom functions. They will also feed puppies’ solid food through regurgitation licked by the young until they can digest it on their own.

Another way kisses or licks is used as a bonding tool is when two dogs meet each other, either for the first or 1000th time. Dogs will initiate a “feeling out” period and then respond with a tense posture (when they are mistrusting or wary of each other) or an enthusiastic bark combined with a lick on either the face or other area of the opposing animal. Dogs also use these displays of affection to show submission to their pack master or to let them know they are hungry, thirsty, etc. Domestic house dogs view their owner(s) as their pack master so the ingrained behaviours are communicated in the same ways.

Dogs who show signs of excessive licking towards humans or objects can also be disguising deeper mental problems. Such issues could be separation anxiety (the fear of being alone) or being nervous in their surroundings due to noise, crowds, smells etc. 

Why Not to Kiss?

Dr. Neilanjan Nandi, has stated that a dog’s mouth is host to “an enormous oral microbiome of bacteria, viruses and yeast.” The term “zoonotic” is frequently used to describe the bacteria that reside in your dog’s mouth that is able to be passed on to humans and cause disease.

A dog spends the majority of their time nosing around in areas where they shouldn’t or we wouldn’t even think to take a healthy sniff! The majority of humans would not nose around another person’s rear end (feces) or take a whiff/taste of some random garbage left on a sidewalk, or take a refreshing drink from the toilet bowl (one can assume) but your dog? They definitely would exhibit one if not all these behaviours. This means that not only is your dog’s mouth a host to these bacteria but their muzzles can be as well. Additional bacteria are also transferred when your dog takes a moment to wrap their tongues around their muzzle for a quick cleanup!

The Dangers of Your Dog’s Kisses 

The top five bacteria that could be transferred through the face and/or mouth are outlined in a short summary below:

1. Capnocytophaga Canimorsus: An organism carried in the mouths of dogs, and it causes a very bad sepsis infection.

2. Staphylococcus Aureu (Staph Infection): The majority of time your dog can safely carry this virus strain without it affecting their overall health, but when transferred to a human it can have life-threatening consequences.

3. Ringworm or Hookworm: Can cause either painful itchy infections or inflammation, or even intestinal bleeding depending on the point of entry.

4. E.Coli: A potentially fatal bacterial disease with symptoms ranging from diarrhea to nausea to intestinal bleeding.

5. Salmonella: A painful bacterial disease that can cause diarrhea, intestinal cramping, nausea and vomiting.

Conclusion

Dog’s are generally affectionate lovable creatures and we would never want to discourage or diminish that side of their personalities because the feeling of walking in the door and getting a hero’s greeting is a confidence booster one thoroughly enjoys. Setting boundaries, however, in how our dogs display that affection can be beneficial to all the involved parties.

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Is Catnip Really Safe for Your Cat to Use?

Almost every cat you know, whether you own them or just observe them, share a common trait. Gift them some catnip and watch the hijinks unfold. Crazy antics, loud noises and just plain hilarious is some of the things you could witness. But how exactly do catnip affect your pet to cause these reactions? What is catnip and is it safe? Depending on the side of the debate you fall, the answer is either yes or no. Perhaps you are like me, not 100% sure if there are dangerous side effects.

Depending on the genetic makeup of your cat, they may become hyperactive followed by a mellow, relaxed period. Strangely enough, your cat’s response is hereditary and depends on their ancestor’s reaction to determine if they even react at all! A small amount of catnip in a toy would be a wise way to test the reaction your cat will exhibit and decrease the chance of ingestion, creating stomach issues.
Throughout this article, we will look at what exactly is catnip and can it affect your feline friend. We will also discuss the possible side effects of catnip and how it can be given to your cat in the recommended small dose. Based on information provided by the ASPCA, catnip is not necessarily harmful to cats. High amounts of catnip in short periods of time, however, can cause vomiting or diarrhea due to stomach upset but it is not toxic.

What is Catnip?
Catnip is a name derived from Nepeta cataria, which is a short-lived herb plant standing at 20-30cm that originated in Europe and traveled as far as North America, to describe the portions of the plant that is attractive to felines. Cats are drawn to the scented oil found in the leaves and stems of this plant (nepetalactone), believed to mimic a feline pheromone. Studies that have been conducted on all felines from domesticated housecats to lions in captivity showed a variety of responses. Larger felines can also show the behaviors exhibited by domestic housecats, according to Readers Digest.

The Effects of Catnip in Cats
Catnip has been proven to be a mood enhancer for felines, however, these behavioral changes can show themselves in different ways depending on your cat. It could your cat suddenly starts bouncing around chasing imaginary prey or even in a zone of complete relaxation staring into space. Some cats show a state similar to being in heat with repeated rubbing against objects or meowing at the air. Catnip that is scented by your cat can lead to the hyperactive reaction and ingested catnip will lead to a mellow state. It is the second mood that led people to refer to their cat as being high or stoned! One drawback to these changes could be that your cat behaves in a more aggressive, almost feral manner, leading them to view your hands or feet as their imaginary prey. They will use these mannerisms to defend their property – the catnip. If your cat displays these tendencies, it is not recommended catnip is used in their environment.
Studies have shown that cats must be about six months of age before showing any reaction to catnip and they can have varying reactions from mild to moderate. Where catnip reactions are hereditary, it is estimated that approximately 1/3 of cats will show no signs of a reaction at all. The cats who do show a reaction will only do so for an average of 15 minutes and then will be indifferent to the herb for an extended time period. Repeated exposure to catnip will also diminish the effects over time, which is why it is recommended as a treat.

How Can I Give My Cat Catnip?
There are numerous ways to allow your cat to experience the treat of catnip and it all depends on your preference as their owner. Most wholesale retailers or pet shops will have toys available for purchase that either has the scent of catnip embedded in the material or have dried catnip leaves/stems inside a pouch. There is also the option of powdered catnip or catnip bulbs that can be sprinkled directly on cats bedding in small amounts. This option can be tricky if your cat has a sensitive stomach or an unpleasant reaction (diarrhea or vomiting) to the ingestion of catnip. Another option is a catnip oil or spray and would be available at a pet shop or even natural remedy store.

Catnip as a Tool
Catnip can be used in a way that benefits the owners while teaching basic commands. Scent their bedding or new scratching post or even their litter pan to encourage use and reward them for doing so. If your cat falls into a relaxed state, you can also complete grooming tasks such as hair maintenance or trimming their nails. By doing this, they will associate these objects with good things and decrease the chance of them sharpening their claws in your furniture.

Conclusion
If your cat doesn’t show any signs of being influenced by catnip, it could simply be they fall in the 33% of cats that don’t have any reaction. Please don’t increase the dosage of catnip to induce a reaction or the consequences could be very uncomfortable for your feline companion. But please remember, small amounts is always key when giving your cat their catnip treat!

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Catios Can Be Built in Three Hours or Less, and Let Your Cats Enjoy the Outdoors Safely

Photo Credit: CatioSpaces.com

Cats’ natural instinct is one of a predatory animal and to satisfy that nature, can spend a lot of their time trying to get to the great outdoors. Unless you have a cat familiar with outdoors and the dangers it can possess, this can prove to be detrimental. There is a product that can help this problem and its name is catios.

Catios are enclosures or structures designed for a cat that secures to a household window or door and allows them to experience the outdoors while maintaining a safe environment. A major selling point of owning a catio would have to be it isn’t necessarily a product you have to purchase through a retailer but one that can be built by hand. There are different types of “cat patios” for a D.I.Y fan and various designs available for the handyperson to assemble themselves.

Why Does My Indoor Cat Want to Go Outside?

Cats are curious creatures who possess a keen hunting sense bred through generations. From the largest feline such as a lion to a domestic housecat, the urge to explore is always present. Another factor that can be pushing your cat to make a break for it every time a door to the outside opens could be sheer boredom. This boredom could create problems in their personality, causing destructive tendencies. Creating a more interesting home can make your cat content and less likely to destroy their current surroundings.

What is a Catio?

A catio is an outdoor enclosed structure designed to be secured to a window or door leading outside your home and allow cats to experience the outdoors in a safe environment. Generally, the most consistent style is a frame and wire enclosure with a single entry/exit point that allows the outdoors in but removes the opportunity for your cat to slip out.

Most catios are surrounded on the roof and/or walls with heavy plastic to decrease exposure to the elements and parasites. CBC News ran an article explaining how “catios” are a thing and items used to spruce up your cats new hangout with tips from a couple who built their three cats their own catio! Catios can have play areas, eating areas and even be designed to increase their activity level through level changes or toys.

Why Should I Build a Catio?

Cats can be either unpredictable beings or creatures of habit, but either way, we want them out of harm’s way for both ours and their peace of mind. Catios offer the excitement of the outdoors without any of the dangers/risks which can be fatal to felines in some cases. “Unless you have exposed your cat to the outdoor environment, they do not have a sense of what is dangerous and what is safe” according to PetsEducation.

The top risks to an indoor cat who suddenly finds themselves outside could range from:

• Vehicles: Cats that do not possess street smarts can find themselves confused and dart in and out of traffic without realizing the danger,
• Unfriendly Animals: Cats that have been sheltered in a home probably has not encountered hostile threats and will not understand what is occurring when face-to-face with an angry animal,
• Disease: Cats can be exposed to harmful germs, bacteria, and viruses by coming in contact with other animals, garbage, feces or poisonous materials such as antifreeze,
• Harsh Conditions: Weather conditions can change within seconds, leaving your cat exposed to the elements; wind, rain, snow etc., 
• Humans: Not all people are animal lovers and there have been cases of humans injuring cats for digging in its yard or hunting birds on their property

By having a catio, the chances of exposure to these dangers are next to nil. Your cat will be able to experience fresh air, bird watch and soak up the sun in a relaxed environment without a worry in the world (bonus!). Depending on the size of your yard, a catio can be built for either one cat or multiple cats and generally have a design that is easily dismantled for storage during winter months.

Finding Out How to Build Your Own Catio

Catios range from simple to elaborate and deciding what style best suits both yours and the cats’ needs can be tough. “Should you add a window or will this fit my apartment?” could be running through your mind. There are resources available that can aid in your decision-making and can be found through books, videos, internet, and magazines. Some retailers offer a variety of designs and blueprints available for purchase or social media sites such as Pinterest offer galleries to decide how to decorate the inside. While searching the web, you can find personal D.I.Y designs from people who actually built a catio and the exact hardware/steps needed. Most catios are built with products available from your local hardware store (wood/nails/plastic) for a low cost or you may even have these items at home.

Conclusion

Domestic cats that don’t have a lot of activity or reasons to exercise their predatory nature can find themselves on a downward spiral to laziness and weight problems. We wouldn’t want that for ourselves, so why let that happen to your cat? Using a catio will fight this trend and provide your feline with a sense of enrichment while providing them a safe environment to explore. Maybe with a catio, the next time a door is opened, your cat will just ignore the urge to flee and instead watch activity unfolding from their own domain!

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