You are receiving this message because you have visited our site and requested to be contacted. If you no longer wish to be contacted, please use the removal link:Â REMOVE. | | | | Maximize Your Reach With Targeted Newsletter Ads | | Welcome to Paws & Tails â the ultimate newsletter for pet lovers who see their furry friends as family. Dive into heartwarming stories, expert pet care tips, and the latest in pet lifestyle trends, all designed to celebrate the joy cats and dogs bring to our lives. With every edition, Paws & Tails delivers engaging content that keeps readers coming back for more, while giving advertisers the perfect platform to connect with a passionate, pet-focused audience.
Our readership is 75% female and 25% male, featuring dedicated pet owners, animal enthusiasts, and pet care professionals who live and breathe all things paws and tails. Spanning ages 25 to 54, these readers earn $50,000 to $100,000 annually and are eager for insights on pet health, training, nutrition, and the newest pet-friendly products. Rooted in suburban and urban communities across the U.S., especially pet-friendly hotspots, this audience prioritizes the well-being of their four-legged companions.
Advertise with Paws & Tails to connect with an engaged community thatâs as loyal as the pets they love! | | | | | Rat Terriers: Agile, Loyal, and Ideal Companions for Active Lifestyles | | | | The rat terrier is a dog breed with an unmistakable purpose. Initially bred for hunting, these small, quick, and sharp-minded dogs have since evolved into exceptional companions, excelling both as working dogs and loyal household pets. With their agile nature, they are particularly well-suited to active individuals or families who can provide them with plenty of exercise and stimulation.
History and Heritage of the Rat Terrier Originating over 500 years ago, rat terriers were once vital workers on farms, excelling at hunting vermin. By the early 20th century, the breed was firmly established in the United States. Their small size and quick reflexes made them perfect for chasing and capturing small prey, though their role diminished as traps and poisons became more common. Over time, their versatility and affectionate nature made them popular household pets, and their fame surged again in the 1970s.
Distinctive Appearance and Characteristics Rat terriers are often confused with Russell terriers, but they possess a unique set of traits. Their small size, alert eyes, and large upturned ears give them a curious and intelligent look. Typically measuring between 10 to 18 inches in height, their coat is short and glossy, coming in a variety of colors such as black, tan, and gray, often with bicolor or tricolor patterns. Despite the practice of tail docking, it is increasingly seen as unnecessary, as health benefits have not been conclusively proven.
A Highly Intelligent and Energetic Breed This breed's intelligence and high energy levels make them ideal for active owners. Though they are easy to train, they have a strong independent streak and may try to outsmart their owners. Rat terriers thrive on interaction and are highly social, requiring plenty of attention and stimulation. Early socialization and consistent obedience training are essential to keeping them well-behaved, as they tend to get into mischief due to their small size and sharp minds.
Living with a Rat Terrier: A Perfect Companion Whether on a farm or in an urban apartment, rat terriers adapt well to various living conditions. Their love for play, energetic nature, and ease of training make them excellent pets for families, including those with children. While they are small, their high prey drive means they must be kept under control, especially in environments where other animals might trigger their chase instincts. They are also avid diggers and may find ways to escape if left unsupervised in a yard.
Care and Grooming: Low Maintenance, High Reward The rat terrierâs grooming needs are relatively minimal. Their short coats are easy to maintain, requiring only a weekly brush and occasional wash. They are seasonal shedders, so preparing for shedding periods with a rubber curry brush is recommended. Routine dental care, ear cleaning, and nail trimming should also be part of regular maintenance.
Health and Lifespan: A Robust Breed Known for their robust health, rat terriers can live up to 15 years or more with proper care. The breed is relatively free from common health issues, though owners should be mindful of conditions such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and allergies. Regular vet checkups and attention to their health will ensure that rat terriers lead a long and happy life. | | | | Why Cats Despise Water: 6 Key Reasons | | | | Cats, known for their independence and mysterious ways, are often notorious for their aversion to water. While a bath is rarely necessary, there are a variety of reasons why most cats seem to intensely dislike water.
1. Fear and Discomfort Cats are creatures of habit, and unfamiliar experiences can easily unsettle them. A cat that has never encountered water may be startled by the sensation of being drenched. Additionally, a traumatic experience with water can lead to a lasting fear. Cats exposed to water from a young age may be more accepting, but this aversion tends to persist in most adults.
2. Vulnerability When Wet A wet coat can make a cat feel exposed. Water-soaked fur weighs more, impeding a cat's agility and reducing their ability to quickly escape or defend themselves. Slippery surfaces add to their discomfort, making them feel unstable and at risk. To reduce this anxiety, try placing a damp towel in the sink or tub for better traction.
3. Grooming Preferences Cats are meticulous groomers, spending up to 50% of their day cleaning themselves. For most, water is an unwelcome addition to their natural grooming routine. The oils in their fur can be stripped away by water and shampoos, creating more work for them to restore their coat to its usual state.
4. Long Drying Time Once wet, a catâs fur takes considerable time to dry, leaving them cold and uncomfortable. The process of drying is not only tedious but can also lead to an uncomfortable chill, which cats find unpleasant.
5. Sensitivity to Chemicals Cats possess an acute sense of smell, far more developed than that of humans. Chlorine, fluoride, and even the minerals in tap water may be off-putting. Additionally, strong scents from shampoos can cause discomfort, as cats tend to dislike overpowering odors.
6. Evolutionary Background Historically, cats are descendants of desert-dwelling animals, with little to no exposure to water. Their evolutionary lineage did not require swimming, and this natural aversion to water has persisted, as cats have not developed the need or instinct to engage with it.
Water-Loving Cats: A Rare Exception Not all cats shy away from water. Some breeds, like the Turkish Van, have a natural affinity for swimming, earning them the nickname "swimming cats." For these rare individuals, water becomes an opportunity for playful exploration, often more attracted to the movement or shine of water than its liquid form.
How to Bathe a Cat: Tips and Alternatives For those moments when a bath is unavoidable, there are methods to make it less stressful for both cat and owner. The traditional method involves filling the tub before placing your cat in, ensuring a secure grip on the surface with a folded towel. A gentle pouring technique can minimize splashing. However, for cats with a severe water aversion, a waterless bath using pet-safe wipes or dry shampoo might be a better option, ensuring their cleanliness without the trauma of water immersion. | | | | | | | | | | How Much Water Should Your Dog Drink? A Guide to Healthy Hydration | | | | Proper hydration is key to your dog's overall health. Just like humans, dogs rely on water for digestion, regulating body temperature, and keeping their joints lubricated. However, many dog owners wonder how much water their pet truly needs. Drinking too little or too much water can signal underlying health issues, making it important to monitor your dog's water intake closely.
The Right Amount of Water for Your Dog A general guideline for how much water a dog should drink is one ounce of water per pound of body weight. For instance, a 30-pound dog would need about 30 ounces of water daily. While this is a helpful reference, many dogs naturally self-regulate their water intake.
Several factors influence how much water a dog needs each day. Highly active dogs or those exposed to hot weather require more hydration. Similarly, pregnant or lactating females need additional water to meet their nutritional demands. Dogs that eat wet food also tend to drink less water, as canned food contains more moisture compared to dry kibble.
For puppies, the amount of water needed depends on their size and age. Young puppies being weaned typically need about ½ cup of water every two hours, while older puppies should drink between ½ to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per day.
When Your Dog Drinks More Water Than Usual If your dog is drinking more than usual, there could be normal causes like outdoor play on a hot day or nursing puppies. However, excessive thirst can also indicate health conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or Cushingâs disease. This excessive thirst is known as polydipsia, often accompanied by polyuria (excessive urination).
Itâs crucial to observe if your dogâs water bowl needs frequent refilling. Overhydration, though rare, can also cause vomiting, lethargy, and electrolyte imbalances. To prevent this, ensure your dog doesnât drink excessively while playing in water or retrieving toys. If your dogâs thirst seems unusually high, a visit to the veterinarian is essential for diagnosis and treatment.
What to Do When Your Dog Wonât Drink Enough Water Under-hydration is just as concerning as overhydration. A dog that is not drinking enough water may be suffering from pain, illness, or anxiety. Dehydration can lead to severe health problems, so it's important to monitor your dogâs hydration status.
To check for dehydration, gently pinch the skin behind your dogâs shoulders and release it. If the skin stays tented, dehydration may be present. Other signs include dry gums, sticky mouth, and sunken eyes. If you suspect dehydration, consult your veterinarian for treatment.
To encourage your dog to drink more, try adding low-sodium chicken broth to the water or offering ice cubes as a treat. Some dogs prefer water fountains, which can entice them to drink more. For older dogs with arthritis, a raised water bowl may help them drink more comfortably.
How Long Can a Dog Go Without Water? While dogs can survive for a few days without water in extreme cases, it's crucial to always provide your pet with access to fresh, clean water. Never withhold water unless directed by a veterinarian for medical reasons.
Tips for Encouraging Healthy Hydration Monitor water intake daily and refill the bowl regularly. Prevent your dog from drinking from the toilet, which may harbor harmful bacteria. Clean your dogâs water bowl daily to prevent bacterial buildup.
Hydration is essential for your dogâs health, and maintaining a consistent routine will ensure your dog stays happy and healthy. If you notice any changes in your dogâs water consumption, it's always best to consult with a veterinarian to address any potential issues. | | | | FIP in Cats: What You Need to Know About the Deadly Disease | | | | Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) is a heartbreaking diagnosis for cat owners, with the condition historically being almost always fatal. However, advancements in treatment are offering a glimmer of hope. A new antiviral therapy approved in some countries shows promise, though it is still undergoing trials in the U.S. Despite the ongoing research, FIP remains a severe and often fatal disease for cats, but there is growing optimism for those facing it.
What is FIP? Feline Infectious Peritonitis is caused by a mutation of the feline coronavirus, a common virus found in many cats. While most cats exposed to this virus may experience mild symptoms, a small percentage of cats develop the more dangerous mutated strain that leads to FIP. This virus is part of the same family as the COVID-19 virus, but it is entirely different in nature, affecting only cats and not humans.
Though the virus is contagious between cats, the disease itself is not transmissible from cat to cat, as the virus needs to mutate within the individual catâs body to cause FIP.
Risk Factors for FIP FIP is primarily spread through the feces of infected cats, especially in households where multiple cats share litter boxes. The virus can also be transmitted via saliva, sneezing, and mutual grooming. Cats with compromised immune systems, young cats, and those under two years old, particularly certain purebred breeds, are at a higher risk of developing FIP.
Symptoms of FIP FIP manifests in two forms: wet and dry. In wet FIP, the buildup of fluid in the abdomen or chest is often the first sign, leading to difficulty breathing and other symptoms like weight loss, vomiting, or excessive thirst. Dry FIP can cause a wide range of symptoms, including neurological issues like seizures, vision changes, and uncoordinated movements. Cats with either form of FIP may also show signs of fever, jaundice, and lethargy.
How is FIP Diagnosed? Diagnosing FIP is challenging as there is no single definitive test for the disease. Veterinarians often rely on a combination of physical exams, medical history, and diagnostic tests. In cases of wet FIP, fluid samples from the abdomen or chest can show high protein levels indicative of the disease. For dry FIP, diagnosis is more complex, as symptoms are often nonspecific and mimic other illnesses. In these cases, additional tests such as MRIs, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, or biopsies may be necessary.
Treatment Options for FIP Currently, the standard treatment in the U.S. focuses on managing symptoms, though there is no cure for FIP using conventional methods. Supportive care may involve the use of antibiotics for secondary infections, fluid drainage to alleviate breathing difficulties, and blood transfusions for severe anemia. Unfortunately, without treatment, the prognosis is grim, with most cats surviving only a few weeks to months.
Promising New Treatments Recent developments in antiviral treatments have brought new hope for cats diagnosed with FIP. Medications such as GS-441524 and remdesivir, though still undergoing clinical trials in the U.S., have shown remarkable success in other countries, including the U.K. and Australia. These treatments, taken over a course of several weeks, have resulted in remission for over 85% of treated cats. While some cats may relapse and require additional treatment, these new therapies are significantly improving survival rates.
Preventing FIP Although there is a vaccine for FIP, it is not widely recommended due to its limited effectiveness. The best approach to preventing FIP is to reduce stress and keep cats in a clean, healthy environment. Minimizing overcrowding and maintaining separate litter boxes can also help reduce the risk of infection.
Final Thoughts FIP is a devastating disease that, while still challenging to treat, is no longer the automatic death sentence it once was. With new treatments on the horizon, cat owners now have a reason to hope. For those facing a diagnosis, speaking with a veterinarian about possible treatments or clinical trials may offer a path toward remission and a better quality of life for affected cats. | | | | Do Dogs Have Belly Buttons? Here's What You Need to Know | | | | Dogs, like all mammals, have belly buttons. While it may seem like an odd question, understanding what is normal on your dogâs body is essential for early detection of potential issues. If youâve ever wondered about your dogâs belly button, especially if it appears protrusive, there could be more to it than meets the eye.
What is a Dog's Belly Button? Yes, dogs do indeed have belly buttons. Just like humans, they carry a scar from the umbilical cord that once connected them to their motherâs placenta. This connection provided essential nutrients and oxygen while also helping to remove waste. Once the puppy is born, the mother typically chews through the umbilical cord, and a small scar remains, which becomes the belly button.
Locating a Dogâs Belly Button To find your dogâs belly button, look in the middle of the stomach, just below the rib cage and above the pelvis. Unlike humans, a dogâs belly button isnât likely to look like a hole. Instead, it may appear as a small, oval scar. If your dog has thick fur, it may be more difficult to spot, but gently feeling the area should reveal a firm patch of skin where the scar tissue is located.
Can Dogs Have Outie Belly Buttons? In short, no, dogs do not have true "outie" belly buttons. While some dogs may have a more pronounced scar, it should not protrude in the way a human's outie belly button would. However, lumps or bumps around the belly button area can sometimes be indicative of a problem. These irregularities could suggest a hernia, abscess, or tumor, which should be addressed immediately.
Possible Health Issues Associated with Belly Buttons Hernias: An umbilical hernia occurs when part of the intestine slips through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, typically due to incomplete closure after birth. Most of these hernias are harmless and close on their own, but larger ones may require surgical intervention to prevent complications, such as the intestines becoming trapped or twisted. Abscesses: Abscesses are painful, swollen lumps that often appear in the skin after a wound has healed over, trapping bacteria inside. The belly button area can be especially prone to abscesses, as bacteria may enter through the site where the umbilical cord was detached. Veterinary treatment is essential for draining and treating abscesses to prevent further infection. Tumors: Abnormal growths, or tumors, are more common in older dogs and may appear as lumps near the belly button. These could be benign, such as lipomas, or malignant, like mast cell tumors. If a lump appears, itâs important to have it examined by a veterinarian. A biopsy or fine needle aspirate can help determine the nature of the tumor, and treatment will depend on its type and severity.
When to Seek Veterinary Attention If you notice anything unusual around your dogâs belly button, itâs important to consult with a veterinarian. Even if the issue doesnât seem serious, early detection of hernias, abscesses, or tumors can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes. A professional evaluation will ensure your dog remains healthy and free from complications. |
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