The Truth About Teacup Pigs

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When you hear the term “teacup pig,” cute images and warm fuzzy feelings may come to mind. Isn’t it a novel idea that something as large as a pig could actually fit inside of a teacup? In reality, a teacup pig is an oxymoron. Sometimes advertised as micro pigs, pocket pigs or Juliana pigs, a teacup pig often comes with a promise that it will stay tiny forever. Hopeful buyers shell out anywhere from $750 to over $3,500 for teacup pigs. What is unfortunate is that the buyer actually believes that the pig will not get bigger than 12 pounds. Popularity of teacup pigs peaked in 2009 when Paris Hilton… Read More Continue Reading

Top 9 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds

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If you love dogs but find you have allergy attacks when they are around, you are not alone. The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology reports that about 10% of the American population is allergic to dogs. Fret not. Although no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, there are several breeds of dogs that allergy sufferers will do better with. What makes certain dogs more hypoallergenic than others? Dogs termed as hypoallergenic have a coat that does not shed and less dander is produced. Most pet allergies in humans are caused by dander that is attached to pet hair. Even when you have a hypoallergenic dog, it is a good idea… Read More Continue Reading

13 Ways to Make Your Dog Happy

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Does your doggie need a little TLC from you? Doing things to make your dog happy is likely to make you happy in the process. The following are many great ways to spread a bit of cheer into your dog’s life. Take time to play with your dog every day. Even if you feel tired from a long day of work, your dog needs you to take some time out and help him get some exercise. You may even be surprised that you feel better yourself! Keep your dog’s water supply fresh. You wouldn’t want to drink warm water that has been sitting in a bowl for days and neither… Read More Continue Reading

Puppies and Mange

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Mange is a skin disease caused by several species of tiny mites that are common external parasites found in companion canines. There are some mange mites that are normal for your dog’s skin and hair to have, while others do not belong. If mites multiply, they can cause mild to severe skin infections. All puppies raised normally by their mothers have demodectic mange mites.  They are transferred from the mother to the puppy when they are cuddling during the first few days of life. Most puppies live with their mites and don’t suffer any consequences. Types of Mange A localized case of demodectic mange happens when the mites multiply in… Read More Continue Reading

Olive Oil for Dogs

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Many people have heard about all of the positive benefits of olive oil. Did you know that olive oil is also good for your dog? In order for a dog to receive all of the benefits of olive oil, they will need to eat ½ to 1 tablespoon of it every day. Your dog is likely to enjoy the taste of olive oil, but not on its own. It is better to mix it with their wet food or drizzle it over their kibble. It will give their food a pleasant, mild flavor that they will like. Due to the monounsatured fats in olive oil, ingesting it breaks down the… Read More Continue Reading

Dog Backpacks

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When you are walking your dog regularly, adding a backpack to the scenario is a great way to change things up a bit. A backpack is one of the simplest and powerful ways to make his walk more efficient and challenging. Backpacks are great because they make your dog feel useful. It gives them a task to do as they walk next to you. Backpacks also help to redirect the focus of your dog’s attention. Your dog may become less likely to chase after squirrels or other distractions as he has a job to do. If you have a small dog, you can put an empty backpack on them. For… Read More Continue Reading

Introducing a New Dog to a Current Dog

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When you add another dog to your home, you and your current dog may experience more enjoyment and companionship. However, you should realize that your current dog may have to get used to the idea of sharing his home and owners. Ideally, you want to give them a smooth, safe introduction to make sure their relationship starts on the right foot. It becomes a two-step process. The first is the actual introduction and the second is the management of the new dog in your home. The Introduction To start with, be sure to leave your current dog at home when you go to pick up your new dog. Next, you… Read More Continue Reading

How to Ease Stress in Dogs

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As with humans, stress is a normal part of life in animals. For example, fear is a stress-related emotion that assists us in avoiding potentially dangerous situations. Dogs may become stressed for various different reasons. Stress can be the product of a major change in the environment or a feeling of insecurity that exists on a daily basis. Other causes could be a fear of thunderstorms or anxiety when you leave home. While occasional stress shouldn’t be particularly worrisome, excessive or prolonged stress has the potential to weaken a dog’s immune system and can lead to behavioral problems. Behavior Signs of Stress in a Dog There are some physical signs… Read More Continue Reading

What Is Dog Yoga?

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Also known as doga, dog yoga is the practice of doing yoga with pet dogs. With that being said, it can mean different things to different instructors. For example, some classes include the dogs simply roaming around while yoga is going on. Other classes involve taking your dog through specific yoga poses with you. Seattle yoga teacher Brenda Bryan explains, “As we lift, stretch and massage the dogs, we’re teaching them to trust in the relationship they share with us. They also receive physical benefits such as relaxation, stress release and an improvement in circulation and range of motion.” In dog yoga, the submissive dogs and their masters work as… Read More Continue Reading

Best Pet Reptiles for Children

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Not every child wants a warm and fuzzy kind of pet. Some children may be fascinated with reptiles. One benefit of having a retile is that they don’t require a lot of attention. They don’t crave affection from their owners like dogs and cats do. Reptiles don’t require grooming and you don’t have to worry about allergies to fur. They are easy to feed. Even if you have a snake and don’t want to feed him live mice, you can buy frozen rodents. Reptiles are a great choice for some, while there are some things you will need to consider. The first thing is that many reptiles can live a… Read More Continue Reading