Reviewers swear by these 33 pet-proof products, including a sleek Simplehuman trash can, tear-proof screens, and heavy-duty litter box liners, to keep their pets from destroying household items. Other popular items include a nonskid rug pad, machine-washable rugs, and cord protectors to prevent pets from chewing on cords. Additionally, pet gates and clever door latches are recommended for controlling pet access to certain areas, while durable toys and food storage containers are also highlighted for pet owners.
A man in Lincoln County, New Mexico, died from the plague, marking the state's first fatal human case since 2020. The disease is generally spread through infected flea bites or direct contact with infected animals. Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, and lymph node swelling. The state Department of Health is taking public safety steps and conducting outreach to prevent further cases, emphasizing the need for heightened community awareness and proactive measures.
Two woodland creatures, a skunk and a fox, have tested positive for rabies in Salinas, according to the Monterey County Health Department. Pet owners are advised to take precautions, such as avoiding leaving pets outside unattended, discussing rabies vaccinations for domestic livestock with their veterinarian, and avoiding contact with wildlife, particularly skunks and bats. If any wild animals are found dead, acting abnormally, or if exposure to rabies is suspected, residents are urged to contact Monterey County Animal Services or their local animal control agency for assistance.
Pet owners are increasingly opting for "human-grade" pet food, with brands offering fresh, nutritionally balanced meals that resemble what humans eat. This trend reflects a growing concern for pets' well-being and a desire to provide them with the best possible nutrition, even if it comes with a hefty price tag. While some experts caution that expensive specialty diets may be more for the owner's peace of mind than the pet's actual benefit, the trend continues to gain traction as consumers prioritize their pets' health and happiness.
The OKP Robot Vacuum Cleaner, a highly rated robovac, is currently on sale for $90 on Amazon, down from $278, making it a great deal for pet owners and anyone looking to simplify their cleaning routine. With features such as compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant, four cleaning modes, and a 100-minute runtime, this robovac is praised by over 8,500 shoppers for its effectiveness in handling pet hair and debris. Reviewers highlight its quiet operation, easy app control, and overall convenience, making it a worthwhile purchase for keeping floors clean.
Pinellas County park officials have issued a warning to pet owners after confirming the presence of the potentially deadly canine distemper virus at Ft. De Soto State Park campground. The virus, which affects dogs' respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems, is highly contagious and poses a significant risk to unvaccinated dogs and puppies. Symptoms include fever, coughing, lethargy, and seizures, and about half of infected dogs will die. There is no cure for the disease, so treatment focuses on supportive care and hydration. Pet owners are advised to be cautious and to not leave food or water outside, and to call 727-582-2100 if they see a sick animal.
A mystery respiratory illness called Atypical Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease (aCIRD) is spreading across the US, with cases reported in 16 states. The illness, which may be caused by a virus or bacteria, has now reached Illinois and could soon spread to Missouri. While the exact cause and transmission method are still unknown, pet owners are advised to avoid contact with sick dogs, communal water bowls, and shared toys, and to be cautious when bringing their dogs out in public. Dogs with underlying breathing conditions or compromised immune systems are at higher risk.
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) is warning pet owners about an unknown and highly contagious respiratory disease affecting dogs. Veterinarians have identified the disease, which is causing more severe illness and showing higher resistance to antibiotics than typical respiratory infections. RIDEM advises pet owners to avoid letting their dogs mingle with other dogs, especially in places like dog parks, shelters, groomers, and kennels. They recommend avoiding unnecessary exposure and consulting with veterinarians for proper cleaning and disinfection procedures. Rhode Island is one of at least 10 states reporting cases of the respiratory disease.
Canine respiratory disease, known as atypical Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC), is affecting pet owners' holiday plans in western Washington. The disease has infected dozens of dogs across the country, causing concern among pet owners. Boarding facilities and dog parks are experiencing a decline in business as owners try to protect their pets. The Washington State Department of Agriculture advises fully vaccinating pets, avoiding group settings for dogs, and contacting a vet if symptoms such as lethargy, coughing, and discharge are observed. The disease has not been reported to spread to humans.
Veterinarians in the US are urging pet owners not to panic over the recent increase in respiratory illnesses among dogs, commonly known as kennel cough. While there is no central surveillance system to track disease outbreaks in animals, experts believe that the rise in cases may be due to increased awareness and more people owning dogs. Pet owners are advised to consult their veterinarians for accurate information and ensure their dogs are vaccinated. While socializing with other dogs is generally beneficial, owners should be cautious if their dogs have underlying health conditions that make them more susceptible to illness.
A mysterious respiratory canine illness is spreading across the United States, causing concern among pet owners. While veterinarians are still unsure of the cause and best treatment, they urge pet owners not to panic and to work together to collect samples and identify potential causes. Local dog boarding businesses are already feeling the financial impact as frightened customers cancel reservations, leading to a decline in revenue. Pet owners are advised to stay vigilant, keep their pets away from other dogs if they show symptoms, and ensure their vaccinations are up to date.
The West Lafayette Parks and Recreation Department has closed the city's dog parks due to recent cases of Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease (CIRD), a potentially fatal respiratory illness affecting dogs in multiple states. Concerns have been rising as the illness does not respond to traditional antibiotics. Dog owners are urged to clean up after their pets, dispose of waste properly, and ensure their dogs are up to date on vaccinations. Symptoms of respiratory illness in dogs include coughing, sneezing, difficulty breathing, and loss of appetite. To prevent the spread of CIRD, dog owners are advised to vaccinate their dogs, avoid communal water bowls and toys, limit exposure to unknown dogs, and seek veterinary care if their dog is sick.
In response to a recent rabid fox incident in Syracuse, New York, a free rabies vaccination clinic for pets will be held in Eastwood. Six people have been identified as having come into contact with the fox and have been evaluated and treated accordingly. The clinic, which is open to dogs, cats, and ferrets, will take place on Thursday at the Frank DeFrancisco Eastwood Community Center. Pet owners can sign up on the Onondaga County Health Department's website or call for more information. Vaccinations are required by law for all pets, with puppies and kittens needing a booster shot at one year old and every three years thereafter.
The discovery of a 3-foot-long lizard under a porch in Athens, Georgia, has highlighted the importance of new regulations requiring pet owners to register and tag specific reptile species. The registration deadline is approaching, and pet owners are urged to schedule a visit to their veterinarian to meet the December 3rd deadline. Six reptile species, including the Argentine black and white tegu, have been designated as wild animals in Georgia, and pet owners have a grace period to attach passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags and register their reptiles. Releasing non-native species into the wild is illegal and undermines efforts to protect native wildlife.
A study from the University of Copenhagen reveals that pet owners, particularly in the United Kingdom, Austria, and Denmark, tend to favor dogs over cats, especially when it comes to financial care. The research suggests that cultural factors, such as the amount of time spent with the animals, play a role in this preference. However, the study also notes that there is no natural limit to how much people care about their cats compared to their dogs. Additionally, recent research indicates that cat owners may have sharper intellectual prowess, and a separate study found that many millennials prioritize their pets over their own family members.
