Overdrive was only a 2-month-old kitten when he hid inside the engine compartment of a car parked at a rest stop in Arizona. The unsuspecting tourists who owned the car were alarmed when 200 miles later, they stopped at a restaurant in Utah and heard desperate meows coming from under the hood of their car. The tiny buff-colored tabby was successfully rescued and taken to the nearby Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. Although traumatized by the experience, he miraculously didn’t sustain any injuries. He’s just one of numerous cats in car engines that have survived.

Every year, there are stories of cats getting trapped in vehicle engine compartments. Once a car engine starts, things can quickly take a turn for the worse for a cat hiding under the hood, say veterinary experts at the Chastain Veterinary Medical Group in Texas. The sudden vibration and roar of the car’s engine can cause a stowaway cat to jump or fall into the fan or fan belt and pulleys. The results are often disastrous for the cat, causing trauma, lacerations, and on occasion, death.

A March 2021 Wigan Today article reported that a cat became stuck in an engine’s camshaft when the car was turned on. Firefighters had to cut the cat from the engine, and he lost his tail and a leg. People magazine recounted the story of  Cindy Lou, a 2-year-old Maine Coon who climbed inside the engine compartment of a car in December 2020. She was wedged between two hot metal plates near the fan belts, and part of her fused skin had to be removed to rescue her.  

Why do cats hide in car engines?

According to experts at Embrace Pet Insurance, cats and kittens, especially strays, will seek out shelter in colder months and are frequently attracted to the warmth of engines in recently driven cars. When cars are left on streets, driveways, or even easily accessible garages, cats will often sit between the engine and the hood, which provides relief from harsh weather or protection from predators. Animal behaviorists say cats are also attracted to a vehicle’s engine bay because it offers a dark, quiet place to nap.

You would think that if a cat could climb inside the engine compartment of a car, he would also be able to find his way out. However, when frightened or startled, cats may squeeze into even tighter spaces and end up trapped. If you discover a cat in this situation, call the local police or fire department for help. It’s not unusual for a mechanic to be called in to assist in freeing trapped cats from under car hoods.

How can I prevent my cat from climbing into a car engine?

The best way to keep your cat from climbing into a car engine is to prevent him from roaming free. Experts at the Humane Society of the United States say indoor cats live longer and tend to be healthier. In addition, keeping your pet as an inside kitty prevents predators, injuries, parasites, and communicable diseases from the great outdoors. If you live with a cat who’s always asking to go out, access to a patio or a walk around the neighborhood in a harness and leash can give him a safe way to hang outside.

If your cat is allowed out, here are tips to keep him away from your car’s engine:

• Whenever possible, park your car inside an enclosed garage.
• Place a high-quality car cover over your vehicle to help keep your cat from getting to the engine compartment.
• Sprinkle cayenne pepper on the ground around your car. It may take a few days, but cayenne pepper has worked to keep cats away from cars.
• Try a commercial spray such as Nature’s Mace Cat Repellent. Like cayenne pepper, this deterrent can be sprayed around the car to keep cats away.
• Use a motion sensor alarm such as the Tattle Tale Sonic Pet Training Vibration Alarm to discourage your cat from going under the hood of your car.

Keep in mind that while you can take steps to deter your cat from climbing into the engine compartment of your car, he can still hide under the hood of a vehicle in the neighborhood. That’s what happened to Simon, a big orange tabby featured in a KCRA 3 story. He went for a 13-mile ride before the driver realized there was a cat stuck in the engine block. Luckily, Simon wasn’t injured, and thanks to his microchip, was safely reunited with his family.

How do I know if my cat is in my car engine?

Overall, you’ll probably have the best luck by implementing preventative measures and then trying to scare off any especially clever cats who make it into the engine, anyway. If you find a repeat offender every morning, you can also put in other deterrents to the general area. Consider speaking to his owner too and coming up with a join solution. The steps here will only take a few minutes and can save a cat’s life.

If you’ve ever tossed and turned because your neighbor’s pooch barked all night, then you know how incredibly frustrating a noisy dog can be. Don’t let your pup be “that” dog in your community. While it’s perfectly natural for Fido to bark occasionally, excessive barking at unreasonable hours or for long periods is unneighborly.

Experts at the American Kennel Club (AKC) say that preventing nuisance barking should be a top priority for responsible pet parents. If you live with a loud four-legger that barks nonstop, take steps now to resolve the problem before your neighbor complains (or you lose your mind).

What dog breed is noisy?

When your dog barks at night

The first step in solving nighttime barking is to figure out why it’s happening. Here are some reasons why dogs may bark at night.

1. Barking when unsupervised

One of the most common reasons for dogs to bark at night is because they’re left outside alone. When nocturnal critters come out to play, dogs go on high alert and the barking starts.

What you can do: Training experts say dogs should not be allowed to stay outside all night. It’s difficult for dogs to relax with all the nighttime sounds. Instead, keep your dog safely indoors when it’s time for bed. Consider restricting her to one room while she’s sleeping. To cut down on outside noise, choose an interior room away from a busy street or the backyard.

2. Barking to raise an alarm

While we may welcome our dog alerting us when someone’s at the door, it’s a nuisance if she barks at every outdoor sound or movement. This is especially true when you live in a neighborhood where homes are close together or in an apartment building and expect some noise.

What you can do: Use positive motivation training to desensitize your dog to outside stimuli. When she barks at an outside sound, wait for her to stop and immediately give her a high-quality treat and tell her “good quiet.” Do this consistently, and she will start to connect silence with a reward.

3. Your dog may be lonely

Dogs who are left alone for long hours during the day may be craving attention. Once the family retires for the night, a lonely dog could bark when she’s separated from her pack again.

What you can do: Once you return home, be sure to spend quality time with your furry friend. Take her for a long walk and play her favorite games. At bedtime, consider letting your dog sleep in your room with you.

4. When senior dogs bark at night

Your senior dog may be suffering from dog dementia, also known as canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD). According to veterinary experts, dogs who suffer from CCD may sleep less and bark or howl at night.

What you can do: If you suspect your senior is suffering from CCD, talk to your veterinarian about medications and strategies that can help your buddy relax at night.

Barking when home alone

Many pet parents aren’t aware that their dogs are barking incessantly when home alone until someone complains. Boredom, restlessness, fear, and separation anxiety are all common reasons for dogs to bark when alone, say experts at the AKC. Lack of exercise and socialization can contribute to problem behaviors as well, including inappropriate barking, writes veterinarian Debra Horwitz in a VCA Hospitals article. Here are steps you can take to help your dog relax when alone.

• Take your beastie for a long walk before you leave for the day.
• Provide a puzzle toy to entertain her.
• Hire a dog walker to take your dog out during the day.
• Leave classical music or the radio on for background noise.

If you’re not sure why your dog is barking, you can use a monitoring camera such as the Petcube Cam Wi-Fi pet camera to observe her behavior when alone. This might give you clues as to what’s setting off the barking and help you devise a solution. If you suspect separation anxiety, speak with your veterinarian about anxiety medication.

Barking at the neighbors

Your neighbors can’t enjoy their yard if your dog’s barking nonstop every time she sees them outside. There are steps you can take to restore peace. First, stop allowing your dog unsupervised time in the yard when she can engage in this unwanted behavior. Next, redirect your dog away from inappropriate barking by rewarding her with treats for sitting or lying down and focusing on you. She will soon learn that when she doesn’t bark outside, she gets a reward.

Barking when out on a walk

If your pup engages in leash-reactivity barking, she’s probably been labeled the “out of control” dog that everyone avoids. While it’s easy to get frustrated with this behavior, you need to remain calm, figure out what’s causing the behavior, and come up with a positive solution. According to training experts, there are many reasons for leash-reactivity barking including fear, aggression, and frustration. This can be a difficult behavior to fix and it’s best to enlist the help of a positive-motivation trainer to develop a training routine.

If your dog’s barking has been out of control for a while, it will take time and patience to break the habit. Reasonable neighbors will be more understanding when they see you working to solve the problem. Be consistent with the training, and the nuisance barking will eventually stop and peace will be restored to your home and community.

The joys of having a new dog can come with many challenges, but there’s even more to learn when you bring home a puppy. Learning how to house-train a puppy isn’t always simple, and some breeds are easier to train than others.

Even though Chihuahuas are as tiny and as cute as can be, they are known for being difficult to potty train just like Bichon Frises. The American Kennel Club (AKC) describes Chihuahuas as “tiny dogs with huge personalities,” and this often includes a stubborn streak. As you can imagine, this can complicate house-training efforts.

Reasons Chihuahuas can be difficult to house-train

In addition to being stubborn, there are numerous other reasons why Chihuahuas can be harder to potty train than other breeds. Understanding these hurdles can help when it comes to training your tiny dog.

Small dogs’ accidents can easily go undetected

Part of learning how to house-train a puppy is catching your dog in the act. When you do see your puppy peeing indoors, you should immediately redirect him to the appropriate place to potty. However, small dogs can easily slip out of sight, meaning their accidents frequently go undetected. When this happens, pet parents miss a valuable teaching moment. Additionally, accidents aren’t cleaned up immediately, encouraging the dog to eliminate in the same spot again.

Small dogs can get away with small accidents

Because tiny dogs have tiny accidents that are easy to clean up, some pet parents are more forgiving. However, according to the AKC, the quicker you teach your puppy that there is an “approved place to potty and that some places are off-limits,” the sooner you’ll have a fully housebroken dog.

Some dogs have trouble transitioning from pee pads

According to Veterinarian Elizabeth Robertson and the National Canine Research Association of America, some Chihuahuas trained to use pee pads may have difficulty transitioning to doing their business outside. This is because they are used to just going on the pad whenever they need to, and it takes time to learn that they have to alert pet parents when they need to go outside. One thing to try is taking a soiled pee pad to the outdoor space. When they use the potty pad outside, make sure to praise your dog and repeat the process.

4 effective ways to house-train your Chihuahua

Constantly supervise your puppy to avoid undetected accidents

Constant supervision is key when housebreaking your puppy, say experts at the Chihuahua Club of America (CCA). Small puppies are like babies and frequently eliminate with little or no warning. You can never let your puppy roam unsupervised around your home.

“Prevention, supervision, and rewarding the desired behavior are the way to train your puppy,” according to the CCA.

Confine your puppy in a crate or pen when you can’t supervise them

When you can’t watch your puppy, he needs to be confined in an exercise pen or puppy-sized crate. Provide him with a bed at one end and a pee pad or newspaper at the other. Puppies don’t want to soil where they sleep, so they will naturally use the pad or newspapers when they need to. When training your puppy to go outside, you can take some poop or a piece of soiled newspaper to the desired outdoor spot. The smell will help him understand that he is supposed to do his business there.

Create a potty break schedule to keep your pup on a routine

Puppies do best on a regular schedule. This schedule teaches them that there are separate times to eat, to play, and to do their business. Feeding your puppy at the same times each day will make it more likely that he’ll eliminate at consistent times as well, making housebreaking easier.

When setting up a housebreaking routine, you’ll need to monitor daily events and your puppy’s daily habits. With a very young puppy, AKC experts say you can expect to take potty breaks around these times of day:

• First thing in the morning
• Last thing at night
• After playing indoors
• After spending time in a crate
• Upon waking up from a nap
• After chewing a toy or bone
• After eating
• After drinking

This schedule can be overwhelming early on, but by being consistent, your dog can be successfully housebroken.

Focus on praising your puppy for getting it right

You should expect that your dog will have a few accidents during housebreaking. After all, that is how they’ll learn! How you react to these accidents will play a big role in successfully house-training your dog, so follow these tips when accidents happen:

• Don’t overact if you catch your dog eliminating in the house. Simply interrupt the behavior with an “oops” or “no” and immediately take him outside to the correct bathroom spot. If he finishes his business there, praise him and give him a treat. Continue reinforcing correct behavior by rewarding your puppy every time he eliminates outside.
• If you find a soiled area in the house, don’t punish your dog. Yelling or doing something as cruel as rubbing his nose in it will only scare your dog and make him afraid to do his business in front of you. Instead, clean the area thoroughly with an odor-neutralizing product such as No Go or Nature’s Miracle. This will prevent your pup from potentially marking the same spot if they detect the scent of urine.

When trouble with potty training could mean a visit to the veterinarian

If your dog seems to be regressing in his training, don’t always assume it’s a behavioral issue. Of course, puppies will still have accidents while they’re getting used to a regular potty schedule, but an extended issue could be a potential sign of a problem. In rare cases, puppies may suffer from a spinal concern or genetic abnormality that complicates things. Fortunately, you should have several pre-set veterinary appointments to get your puppy vaccinated where you can bring up your concerns.

Accidents in an otherwise house-trained dog could mean there’s a health issue, such as a bladder infection or urinary tract infection. Robertson urges pet parents to visit the vet if they notice blood in the urine, straining when eliminating, or urine that dribbles out when a dog isn’t actively urinating.

If you’re just training a Chihuahua who isn’t used to proper potty training, you’ll just need to be patient and gentle. The same goes for learning how to potty train a puppy! If you remain vigilant in supervising your puppy, avoiding punishment, and rewarding him for desired behavior, you will eventually enjoy an accident-free home.

Whenever possible, newborn puppies should eat their mother’s nutrient-rich milk, which helps protect them from illness while their immune systems develop. It’s the perfect food for them! However, it’s not always possible for a mama dog to feed her litter all by herself.

Perhaps Mom doesn’t produce enough milk, the milk is infected, or the puppies have unfortunately become orphaned. In these scenarios, pet parents have to step in to help feed the babies around the clock. To ensure your pups are getting adequate nutrition, it’s important to follow a puppy feeding chart or guide from a trusted veterinary resource.

Luckily, we’re here to help!

How to tell if nursing puppies aren’t getting enough to eat from Mom

Veterinary experts say that newborn puppies should gain 5% to 10% of their body weight daily — doubling their body weight in a week. Jerry Klein, the chief veterinary officer at the American Kennel Club (AKC), recommends using a baby scale to monitor the weight gain of each puppy. Puppies should first be weighed at birth and again at 12 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, three days, five days, and seven days. If everything is going well, all puppies should show a gradual weight gain.

When newborns cry during or after nursing, it may very well mean that they aren’t getting enough milk. Alternatively, mom’s milk could be infected, or it might indicate that they are sick. If this behavior is sudden or excessive, it requires an emergency vet visit for both mom and baby.

How often do newborn puppies eat when nursing from Mom?

Newborn puppies typically nurse from their mom about every two hours. As they grow older, the time between nursing increases, and by four or five weeks — or even as early as three — Mom starts weaning her puppies. You’ll have to step in to make up the difference and start introducing some puppy chow “gruel” mixtures to help them transition from milk to solid foods.

How often should you feed a newborn puppy? It depends on their age.

When Mom’s milk supply isn’t adequate to support the healthy growth of her puppies, VCA veterinary experts recommend supplemental feedings one to six times per day. Newborn orphaned puppies who are less than two weeks old should be fed every three to four hours, while 2- to 4-week-old puppies will do well being fed every six to eight hours. Don’t forget — feedings need to be equally spaced over the span of 24 hours.

What to feed newborn puppies without their mom’s support

Veterinarians say that the best replacement milk for puppies is commercial puppy milk formula. Best Friends Animal Society recommends the Esbliac puppy milk replacer when feeding orphaned puppies or those who need extra support. Experts say that any puppy milk replacer should contain optimal levels of omega-3 fatty acid and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), a nutrient that is important for the development of their brains and eyes. Containers will come with feeding instructions — follow these carefully. Just as with newborn babies, the milk can be tested on your forearm before feeding. You want it about the same temperature as your skin or only slightly warmer. Otherwise, they’ll burn their little tongues trying to slurp it down.

As you nourish your newborn, be aware that overfeeding may put your puppy at risk of aspiration, vomiting, diarrhea, and gas build-up in the stomach and intestines. Maddie’s Fund provides a helpful newborn puppy feeding chart broken down by calorie requirements and formula measurements based on the puppy’s weight.

How to bottle-feed a newborn puppy 

1. A puppy nursing bottle is the best way to feed your bundle of joy. The size of the hole in the nipple is crucial to successful bottle feeding, according to experts at Best Friends. To check this, turn the bottle upside down and gently squeeze: If the milk drips freely, the hole is too large. That means the puppy could take in too much and risk inhaling it into their lungs. If the hole is too small, the puppy has to work too hard to get nourishment and may refuse to nurse. You’ll know that the hole is the proper size when the milk comes out one drop at a time.
2. Puppies shouldn’t be fed on their backs because they don’t have a well-developed gag reflex, and there’s a danger that fluid may go down their windpipe and enter their lungs. Instead, place the puppy on their stomach with their head level as if they were nursing from their mom.
3. Open the puppy’s mouth gently with one finger and place the tip of the nipple on their tongue. If they won’t eat, try stroking the pup. Tilt the bottle up slightly to prevent your puppy from inhaling too much air. Do not force the puppy to nurse, or allow them to nurse too fast.
4. After each feeding, you’ll have to burp them by holding them against your shoulder and gently patting their back.

According to the AKC, some orphan puppies take a little time to get the knack for the sucking part of feeding. If a pup doesn’t drink from the bottle, though, you’ll need to work with a veterinarian to tube feed and get him started.

In addition, for the first two weeks, orphan pups should be stimulated to urinate and defecate after each meal. This is done by rubbing the area between the back legs with a warm, wet cotton ball. This action mimics the licking mom does to make her puppies go potty.

When do puppies start transitioning to solid food?

When pups are with their mom, they may start the process of weaning — or transitioning from milk to solid food — as early as three to four weeks of age. Mom will start to refuse feedings around this time since this is the stage in development when puppies’ teeth start to grow in.

As Teresa Manucy, DVM, explains on PetMD, bottle-fed puppies can also start switching to solids around this time. You can begin by mixing puppy milk replacer and puppy food, though adding a bit of water is always an option, too. You’ll want to offer this mixture to the pups while they’re separated from Mom to minimize any distraction or confusion. If they need a little encouragement, dipping a finger in the food and then touching their noses with it can be a great way to entice them to eat.

By 8 to 10 weeks, says Manucy, the puppies should be fully weaned.

While caring for newborns is certainly a time-consuming job and a lot of work, it’s also incredibly rewarding for any dog owner. Nothing will bring you more joy and satisfaction than watching those fur babies thriving under your loving care. If Mom is in the picture, she’ll be so grateful, too!

Let’s be honest: No matter how much we love our fur babies, living with a dog that’s a whiner can drive you crazy.

Your dog had breakfast and a nice long walk. You’ve settled her into a soft bed with a favorite chew toy. Now, it’s time for you to get to work in your home office. But you’ve no sooner powered up the computer than the whining starts. Sound familiar?

No matter how disruptive it is, always remember that whining is a form of communication for our dogs, say training experts at the ASPCA. The key is to properly interpret the noise and figure out how to work with her on it; to try to answer the question, “Why is my dog whining?”

Whining may seem like a random behavior, but it has causes

Although it may seem like your dog is whining for no good reason, that’s not usually the case. They’re trying to tell you something! The best way to make the whining stop is to figure out what exactly your dog is trying to tell you. Let’s explore some of the most common reasons dogs whine.

Your dog might be whining because she wants or is looking for something

Ever had your dog whine when her favorite ball rolled under furniture and out of reach? You stoop down, retrieve the ball, and throw it back to her, and the whining immediately stops. Or maybe your dog looks up at you and whines when you’re relaxing on the couch. You instinctively scoot over and invite her to jump up. Before long, she’s fast asleep cuddled up beside you on the sofa. These are the moments in everyday life when your dog uses whining to tell you what she wants.

Your dog is excited, and she may express that through whining

Grabbing your coat or putting on your shoes can be enough to make some dogs whine. They think: It’s walk time! Naturally, they are excited to head out on an adventure. You can stop excitement whining with positive-motivation training. When your dog whines, give a “quiet” command and follow up with praise and a treat as soon as the whining stops. Begin this training in the house and then follow up on the way to your destination. Like any dog training, it’ll take practice and time — but it’ll be worth it.

Fear can cause a dog to whine, whimper, or even bark

Some dogs whine when they are scared or anxious. If this is the case, you might notice pacing, trembling, or panting, according to experts at the American Kennel Club (AKC). In this case, you’ll need to figure out what’s scaring your dog and how to make her feel more comfortable.

If it’s loud noises, such as fireworks or thunder, providing your dog with a safe space like a crate or basement room without windows may work. Playing soft background music can also help mask the scary sounds. Some dogs get comfort from chewing on a bone or interacting with a puzzle toy, too. Of course, the solution depends on what the trigger is!

Separation anxiety is a very real problem for some dogs, and it may result in whining

If your dog starts to whine, pace, or drool when you’re about to leave the house, she may suffer from separation anxiety. According to the AKC, around 14% of dogs suffer from this disorder. Since the symptoms of separation anxiety could also be the signs of other health issues, experts advise taking your dog for a checkup. If there’s no medical issue, follow these tips to help relieve your dog’s anxiety when home alone.

• The goal is to make going and coming from the house as uneventful as possible. That means no long goodbyes. Just give your dog a treat and leave. Returning should also be no big deal, so ignore your dog until she calms down. We know – it’s hard
• Playing soft music and providing chew toys can help some dogs relax when alone.
• Use sit, down, and stay exercises to help your dog get comfortable in a room by herself even when the family is home.
• In severe cases, calming supplements or medication may be needed.

Attention-seeking whining is easy to accidentally reinforce

We all know this one. Many needy dogs use whining to get their owner’s attention. Often that results in extra petting, playtime, or a treat, so they continue to do it. Whenever you give in to an attention whine, you’re using positive reinforcement, even though you don’t want to. Instead, wait for a break in the whine and then reward with a pat or a snack.

How will I know if my dog is whining because of pain?

Whining could be a sign that your dog is in pain. For example, if your dog whines while climbing the stairs or when trying to jump on the couch, she may have joint pain due to arthritis. If you suspect your dog is in pain, it’s important to have her checked out. Your veterinarian can prescribe medication to manage the pain and may also suggest an exercise or massage routine to make your pup more comfortable.

Should I be concerned if my dog is whining in her sleep?

It might seem unusual, or even concerning, to hear a pup whining in their sleep, but as Sandra C. Mitchell, DVM, DABVP ensures, it’s not usually something to worry about. In fact, they’re likely just dreaming! Just as people do, dogs cycle through REM sleep and non-REM sleep, though dreaming and movement are associated with the REM level of sleep.

As Dr. Mitchell explains, dogs could be dreaming about anything, from running in the park to howling alongside a wolf pack. If anything about their sleep vocalizations seems concerning to you — or if this is a sudden and new behavior — it’s never a bad idea to check in with your veterinarian.

Should you ignore a whining dog?

If your dog is whining just to get your attention, ignoring her is the best way to stop the behavior, training experts say. When the whining starts, avoid eye contact by turning away from your dog. Don’t touch or speak to her, and that includes no scolding — she just sees that as a form of attention. Be sure to reinforce positive behavior by rewarding your dog for being quiet.

If your adult dog has successfully used attention-seeking whining to train you, it’s going to take time and patience to break that habit. After all, you’ve played a role by unintentionally rewarding the behavior, and now it’s up to you to teach your dog a different way. By being consistent with your training, you will soon be spending quality quiet time with your best furry friend.

Some dogs love their toys so much it can lead to toy aggression. But what happens if your dog doesn’t like toys? As it turns out, it could be a sign of a troubling problem. We’re here to help you get to the bottom of your dog’s disinterest in toys.

Why dogs may not be interested in playing with toys

Certified canine behaviorist and trainer Russell Hartstein of FunPawCare in Los Angeles says clients often reach out to him concerned that their dogs won’t play with toys. There could be many reasons for this, says the trainer, including:

• Boredom and depression: This often happens when a dog is forced to spend long hours alone.
• Your dog doesn’t know how to play: Dogs need to be motivated to play with their toys.
• Your dog needs a play buddy: It’s hard to play games such as tug of war or chase without a friend.
• They are stressed and afraid: This may be true of dogs rescued from an abusive situation and can’t relax enough to enjoy interacting with toys.
• There could be a health issue: Older pets might be experiencing canine cognitive dysfunction or have arthritis pain. Your dog may have a problem in their mouth, such as tooth decay or gum disease, that makes it uncomfortable to play with toys.
• The toys aren’t interesting enough: Dogs get bored quickly. To keep things interesting, toys need to be swapped out every day.

What to do for a dog that doesn’t like toys

According to animal behaviorist and dog trainer Kyle Kittleson, one of the main reasons that dogs aren’t interested in playing with toys is that they don’t find the toys motivating. Pay attention to what naturally motivates your dog, whether that’s roughhousing, treats, or playing chase, and choose toys that match those tendencies.

Dog toys break down into the following categories:

• Tug of war: Use rope toys or rubber rings, for example, the .
• Chase and retrieve: Use balls or Frisbees, such as the .
• Hide and seek: Use toys with cavities for hiding treats, for example, the .
• Pounce and shake: Use squeaky toys to encourage this type of play, such as the popular .

Veterinarian Karen Becker advises using toys carefully to ensure your dog’s safety. Your pooch’s temperament, size, and age should all be considered when choosing the safest toys for your pet.

How can I get my dog to like toys?

Some dogs need to be taught to like their toys. Kittleson recommends positive reinforcement training using these steps:

1. Hold a toy in one hand and a treat in the other. Encourage your dog to touch the toy and once they do, get excited and give them a treat. Repeat this exercise until your dog is consistently touching the toy for a treat.
2. The next step is to put the toy on the floor and encourage your dog to touch it. As soon as they touch the toy, get excited and give them a treat.
3. If at any point your dog picks up the toy in their mouth, raise your excitement level and give them additional treats. The goal is that your dog learns that playing with their toy leads to a yummy reward. Eventually, your encouragement and time spent together will be enough to keep your dog engaged in playing and you won’t need to use treats.

Another easy way to teach your dog to play with toys is to encourage playtime before feeding them a meal, says Kittleson. In this case, dogs look forward to playing with their toys because it’s always followed by food.

Finally, if your dog does start to show interest in toys, be aware that their preferences may change depending on their age, say experts at the American Kennel Club. Teething puppies might enjoy biting down on rubbery chew toys while adults may prefer chasing Frisbees, and senior dogs might opt for softer plush toys. It’s such fun when you find a toy that gets your dog excited, and playing together is a great way to bond with your buddy.

In addition to spreading love and comfort, a recent study published in the journal PLOS ONE revealed that the presence of therapy dogs provides significant reductions in pain, anxiety, and depression to patients in medical settings. According to experts at the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, being around these furry volunteers can also decrease stress, sadness, and fatigue in dementia patients, those suffering from anxiety, and people with post-traumatic stress disorder.

What exactly is a therapy dog?

It’s important to understand the difference between service dogs, emotional support dogs, and therapy dogs.

Service dogs go through extensive training to help a person with a disability live a more independent life. Legally, service dogs have full public access rights, which means they’re allowed to go places off-limit to animals.

Emotional support dogs are typically trained to assist owners who have diagnoses of psychological or emotional disorders. Emotional support dogs have limited legal rights and typically an owner is required to present a letter of diagnosis from a doctor or a psychologist before gaining access to areas off-limits to dogs.

Therapy dogs provide comfort and affection while interacting with a wide range of people in a variety of settings. Therapy dogs also help console people in the aftermath of disasters, such as hurricanes or mass shootings.

How to know if your dog qualifies for therapy work

According to experts at Therapy Dogs International (TDI), “a therapy dog is born, not made.” While you can teach your dog basic obedience, you can’t change a dog’s inherent temperament. When a dog is under stress, poor or marginal temperament will surface, making the dog unfit for therapy work, said TDI trainers.

Personality traits of therapy dogs include being friendly, outgoing, gentle, calm, and confident around people and pets. These four-legged volunteers come in all shapes and sizes, with some purebreds becoming certified after retiring from the show ring, while many mixed-breed dogs excel in therapy work after being adopted from shelters or rescues. Typically, dogs have to be at least a year old before they can be certified for therapy work.

In a Newsweek article, Mary Burch, director of the American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Good Citizen Program, said that matching dogs to the right setting is important when it comes to therapy work. For example, smaller breeds like Rosalie and Enzo, both rescue dogs, work well in hospital settings where people can place them on beds or laps, making it easier for patients to pet them. Burch says that larger more active breeds like golden retrievers work well in a setting such as a residential home for teenage boys where residents might enjoy playing ball or Frisbee with the dogs.

Popular large-breed therapy dogs include:

• Golden retrievers
• Labrador retrievers
• Greyhounds
• Standard poodles

Popular small-breed therapy dogs include:

• Beagles
• Cavalier King Charles spaniels
• Dachshunds
• Yorkshire terriers

In addition to having the right temperament, therapy dogs have to be clean, well groomed, and current on core vaccinations.

How to get therapy dog certification

In the U.S., several organizations train and certify therapy dog teams and each has its own set of rules and regulations.

Because all therapy dogs need to have good manners, basic obedience training is a must. Training experts at the AKC recommend that dogs complete the AKC’s Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test before taking a therapy certification test. The CGC teaches basic good manners, including come, sit, stay, down, and good behavior around other dogs.

Once you’re confident with your dog’s obedience skill level, you can reach out to a reputable therapy dog group. Among the largest and most popular groups operating in the U.S. are the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs, and Therapy Dogs International. The AKC also offers a list of local therapy dog organizations, along with the states in which they operate.

Typically, dogs are required to pass a test before being certified for therapy work. In addition to observing a dog’s basic obedience skills, these tests are designed to evaluate a dog’s reaction when confronted with typical therapy dog settings. For example, during testing, dogs may be exposed to people on crutches, in wheelchairs, or using walkers. The dogs may also be subjected to loud noises or people running past them from behind — all experiences they may encounter while working. Evaluators watch to make sure that dogs remain calm in difficult, distracting, or stressful situations.

Once registered, you’ll learn from experienced handlers the skills needed when visiting facilities with your dog. In addition, therapy organizations provide members with the necessary liability insurance to protect them while volunteering.

Yes, there’s some preparation involved in getting your pet ready for therapy work, but the benefits are enormous. Volunteering to help others is a heartwarming experience. Taking your dog along on the adventure strengthens the bond you have with one another while working as a team to help those in need.

Still, there’s so much to know about this bat-eared breed. Read on for the pros and cons of parenting a French bulldog.

Pros of owning a French bulldog: Love, adaptability, ease of grooming, and more

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this adorable breed!

They have loving personalities

French bulldogs, or Frenchies for short, were bred to be companions. They are loving, loyal, affectionate dogs who just want to be with their people. Sounds great, right?

They are adaptable

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Frenchies happily adapt to life with singles, couples, or families with children. They even make great companions for folks living in apartments or other small spaces.

They make great family pets

French bulldogs are on the AKC’s top 10 list of the best family dogs. Their cute looks and playful personalities make them wonderful companions for children, but you’ll still need to help the child and dog learn to interact. To ensure a fulfilling relationship for both experts at the French Bulldog Club of America caution that “rules for behavior need to be established for the dog and the child.” Luckily, training a French bulldog can be done with enough patience, time, and trust.

They are pet-friendly

While all dogs are individuals, Frenchies tend to be outgoing and inquisitive creatures. They usually get along well with cats and other pet species, though a properly trained and socialized French bulldog will also typically get along with other dogs, no matter the size.

They make great watchdogs

According to ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, French bulldogs make excellent watchdogs because “they hardly ever bark without reason.” This also makes them a great fit for anyone living in an apartment, as they won’t disturb neighbors with incessant barking. Remember — training your dog to be a watchdog requires a lot of work for you both!

They love to cuddle

If you’re looking for a cuddle buddy, then a Frenchie won’t disappoint. Frenchies are Velcro dogs; all they want is to curl up beside their favorite people.

Grooming is easy

Frenchies are light shedders. Weekly brushings will help to remove any loose hair while promoting new hair growth and distributing skin oils throughout the coat. A Frenchie’s facial folds should be kept clean and dry and his nails trimmed frequently. Yep — French bulldog grooming is that easy!

Cons of owning a French bulldog: health concerns, costly care, and more

There’s lots of snoring and snorting

French bulldogs are known for their snorting, snoring, and wheezing due to their shortened airway and squished faces. As cute as it can be, having a short snout can restrict the passage of air to the lungs. If you plan to sleep with your Frenchie, his snoring may make it difficult to sleep — though the greater concern should be your pup’s health.

French bulldogs are an expensive breed

If you plan on purchasing a Frenchie from a reputable breeder, you can expect to pay more than $2,000. If you go the adoption route, you can expect to pay more than for other rescues. Adoption fees through the French Bulldog Rescue Network are $900 for dogs 2 to 8 years old and $550 for dogs over 8 years. These fees help defray the cost of medical expenses and the care of the dogs in their foster homes.

They are prone to health problems  

According to PetMD, Frenchies are prone to major health problems, including brachycephalic syndrome, intervertebral disk disease, and hip dysplasia. A 2018 study of 2,228 Frenchies by the Royal Veterinary College revealed that 72.4 percent of the dogs had at least one recorded medical disorder. The most common health issues were ear infections, followed by diarrhea and conjunctivitis. The study revealed that when compared to other breeds, French bulldogs were particularly prone to skinfold dermatitis, cherry eye, and brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome. Many of these health issues can emerge as early as 2 to 3 years of age. So, if you add a Frenchie to your family, you need to be prepared financially and emotionally in the event of health issues.

Frenchies can suffer from separation anxiety 

Unfortunately, the one trait that attracts people to Frenchies can also lead to serious behavior issues. These dogs crave affection and companionship. When left alone for too long they can become depressed and suffer from separation anxiety.

If after doing research, you want to add a Frenchie to the family, the next step is where to find your dog. Adopting from a rescue group is always a wonderful option, as you’ll be opening your heart and home to a dog in need. If you prefer to purchase a puppy from a breeder, choose wisely. According to a National Geographic article, in their quest to make the perfect French bulldog, irresponsible breeders ignore health issues, such as chronic respiratory disorders. The Humane Society of the United States offers helpful tips on how to find a responsible dog breeder. It will be worth the effort knowing that your new puppy was bred by someone who put his health and well-being above profits.

October was Domestic Violence Awareness Month when communities worked to uplift survivors, celebrate advocates, and share critical information for domestic violence victims. It’s also a perfect time to remind people that pets are among those victims. Experts at the Animal Welfare Institute say animal companions are often treasured sources of emotional support, unconditional love, and stability for abused partners and children. Abusers exploit that bond to control, manipulate, frighten, and punish their victims.

Domestic violence victims often choose abuse over leaving pets

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 75% of victims in shelters report that their abusers threatened, injured, or killed their pets. Nearly half of victims live with abuse rather than leaving pets behind, while 25% of those forced to escape without their pets return to the abusers out of fear for the welfare of the animals.

Advocates say it’s incredibly difficult for domestic violence victims to leave their abusers out of fear for their lives or the lives of their loved ones. When pets are among those loved ones, escaping to safety becomes even more complicated. Experts at the Humane Society of the United States say that most domestic violence shelters can’t accept pets because of health regulations, space limitations, additional costs, and potential liabilities.

Where domestic violence victims with pets can turn to for help

According to the Animal Welfare Institute, 36 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico have laws to ensure that survivors of domestic violence can include their pets in restraining orders. When escaping abuse, the ideal situation is for people and pets to remain together. When this isn’t possible, the following resources can help domestic violence victims seeking help for their pets.

Safe havens

Safe havens are sheltering services that assist victims of domestic violence by taking care of their animal companions so that the human family members can enter domestic violence shelters. Some safe havens rely on a network of foster care homes while others use spaces in animal shelters, boarding kennels, or veterinary hospitals. Confidentiality of a pet’s location is highly guarded for the protection of the animals and the family. The Animal Welfare Institute established the Safe Havens Mapping Project, a state-by-state listing of pet-friendly sheltering services to help domestic violence victims find temporary refuge for their pets.

Safe Places For Pets

RedRover offers a Safe Places For Pets database that lists pet-friendly domestic violence shelters and off-site housing for pets of domestic violence victims. The database is searchable using zip codes as well as by state or province. For the protection of victims, addresses are not listed, but contact details are provided for additional information.

RedRover Relief Safe Escape Grant

This RedRover grant program helps families with pets safely escape domestic violence together. Funding is mainly provided to help with the cost of temporary pet boarding while a client is living in a domestic violence shelter. A domestic violence advocate must submit the applications.

5 things you can do to help domestic violence victims with pets

Help spread awareness – RedRover is always in need of volunteers to help spread awareness about pet safety programs for domestic violence victims. One way to do this is by distributing Safe Place For Pets wallet-sized cards that guide people to a directory of support organizations. For more information and to order the cards, visit the Safe Place For Pets website.

Donate – Monthly donations of at least $5 or an annual donation of $60 to the Purple Leash Project helps fund pet-friendly renovations at domestic violence shelters throughout the U.S. The project is an initiative of Purina and RedRover and donors receive limited-edition purple dog leashes or cat collars featuring the Purple Leash motto: “Walk. Heal. Together.”

Become a foster pet parent – Pet safety programs working with a network of foster homes depend on volunteers to provide temporary care for the pets of those in need. For example, Outreach to Pets in Need, a nonprofit helping homeless animals partnered with the Domestic Violence Crisis Center in Stamford, CT, to assist the pets of domestic violence victims. The organization’s SafePet foster program offers peace of mind to victims until they can safely be reunited with their animal companions. You can find a local foster program through the Safe Place For Pets website.

Help renovate a shelter – The Greater Good Charities Rescue Rebuild program recruits volunteers throughout the U.S. to help renovate domestic violence shelters that take dogs so that they can accommodate them and other pets. Projects may involve installing fencing around play areas, building kennels and cat rooms, and creating a living space where families can spend time with their pets. Upcoming renovation projects are listed on the Greater Good Charities Rescue Rebuild program page.

Reach out – One of the best ways to help is to reach out directly to organizations that run safety programs for the pets of domestic violence victims and ask if they need volunteers. Depending on the program, they may welcome help with office work, cleaning, fundraising, or pet care.

Those of us lucky enough to have safe, loving homes can’t even imagine what it would be like to live in the shadow of an abuser. The thought of spending every day fearing for the lives of ourselves, our children, or our beloved pets doesn’t bear thinking about. Providing safe havens for beloved pets allows domestic violence victims to escape abusive lives and become survivors in loving peaceful homes. We can all play a role in helping to make that happen.