If you’re potty training a new puppy, caring for a senior pet, or managing life with an indoor-only dog, pee pads are probably already part of your daily routine. But at some point, you’ve likely asked yourself: Should I stick with disposable pads, or try the washable kind? Both have their perks—and their downsides—and which one works best really comes down to your lifestyle, your dog’s habits, and how much laundry you’re willing to do.
Disposable pee pads are definitely the most convenient option. You just lay one down, toss it when it’s used, and grab another. No scrubbing, no washing, no waiting for the dryer to finish. They’re great for quick cleanup, perfect for travel or crates, and ideal for pet parents who don’t want to deal with extra laundry. But here’s the tradeoff: over time, constantly buying new pads adds up—and they’re not exactly eco-friendly, especially if you’re using several a day.
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Washable pee pads, on the other hand, are reusable and more environmentally conscious. Most come in multi-packs, so while one’s in the wash, another is ready to go. They’re usually larger and more absorbent than disposables, which can be great for larger breeds or overnight use. The downside? You’ll need to rinse or wash them regularly (and let’s be real—no one loves washing pee pads). Still, if your dog uses them consistently in the same spot, and you’ve got a laundry routine down, they can save you quite a bit of money in the long run.
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So which one’s better? If you want quick, hassle-free cleanup with no laundry involved—especially during the early stages of training—disposable pee pads are probably your best friend. But if your dog is on a more predictable potty schedule, or you’re in it for the long haul, washable pads could save you money and reduce waste.
Still can’t decide? Try starting with both—use disposables when life gets hectic, and keep a few washable ones for regular use. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing, and your future self (and your floors) will thank you.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Zoonotic diseases are diseases that can be passed from animals to people (and back and forth). The most common one is Rabies, though we don’t see that disease much anymore, which is a good thing.
However, many other diseases can be passed from one to another. Some that you need to know about include:
Rabies.
This is a life-threatening disease that can be passed from many different animals to people. Unfortunately, most people who get rabies and don’t get treated right away end up dying. For this reason, it is important to keep your pets vaccinated for this preventable disease. In many states, it is legally required.
Leptospirosis.
Though this disease isn’t prevalent, it has become more common over the past few years. Leptospirosis is caused by a bacterium and is passed through the urine of infected animals. It is passed by wildlife and through both running and standing water, where infected wildlife pass by. It can cause liver and kidney failure in all animals and humans.
Intestinal parasites.
Dogs and cats can pass any worms onto a human, especially those who handle them regularly. They can pass roundworms, hookworms, and even tapeworms through their stools. It is more common in children, older people, and those who are immunodeficient.
Giardia infection.
Like intestinal parasites, Giardia is passed through feces. It is an organism that comes from infected water. It can also live in the soil and feces after ingestion. Not only that, but it causes digestive problems, including diarrhea.
Lyme disease.
Lyme disease can be quite severe in both humans and dogs. A tick bite passes it and can affect someone for years. Some of the most common signs include fever, pain, and joint inflammation. If left untreated, it can start to affect vital organs like your kidneys and heart.
Scabies and other mites.
Our dogs and cats who are outside can pick up scabies and other mites, and then pass them on to the humans who want to cuddle up with them. This can be pretty itchy and irritating to the skin of anyone who comes in contact with the mites.
Because you aren’t going to want to worry about your children and your pets with these diseases, you have to do a few things to protect everyone.
Clean up your dog’s stool in the yard.
Not only is it disgusting to walk through a yard full of poop, but it can also be unhealthy. The longer that the stools stay in the yard, the more likely it is that the intestinal parasites can move into the ground and continue to infect your pets repeatedly.
Please wash your hands after handling your animals and their stools.
Good hygiene is essential to keep everyone as healthy as possible. So, make sure that you wash your hands often when you are handling your pets. You also need to wash your hands after you clean out the yard and the litter pan
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Wear gloves when working outside in the dirt.
Since the soil can be infected by stool, you shouldn’t garden or work in the dirt without gloves. Even when wearing them, you should wash your hands after you are finished. You could pick something up from a stray animal that wanders through your yard.
Vaccinate your pet.
You should vaccinate your dog and cat to protect them. However, if he or she has a Leptospirosis and a Rabies vaccine, you are less likely to get the disease.
You also want to keep them on preventatives.
Your dogs and cats should be on flea and tick protection to help keep fleas and ticks out of your home (and on you). These preventatives can also help with mites. You should also deworm your pets routinely to ensure that they don’t get any intestinal parasites that they could pass on to you.
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Though zoonotic diseases can be scary, they don’t have to be. You can easily keep your pet (and your family) safe, just with a few easy things. You should always wash your hands and wear gloves when handling dirt and stool. Likewise, you should also make sure that your dogs and cats are vaccinated against the diseases that can easily be prevented.
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Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
If you’ve got a high-energy pup who treats toys like a personal challenge, you’ve probably wondered which is the better buy: a classic rope toy or one of those heavy-duty rubber chew toys. They both show up on every “best dog toys” list, they’re both affordable, and they both claim to survive tough chewers—but in my experience, they serve slightly different purposes. Knowing what your dog really needs can help you avoid yet another shredded toy in the trash.
Rope toys are great for dogs who love interactive play. Think tug-of-war, fetch, or just zooming around the house with something dangling from their mouth. They’re lightweight, inexpensive, and often come in multipacks, so they’re easy to replace when they eventually fray.
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Plus, the texture of the rope can be kind of floss-like, helping to clean teeth a bit while your dog chomps. But here’s the catch: most rope toys aren’t made to last if your dog is a determined chewer. If your pup likes to lie down and gnaw until there’s nothing left, you might end up with stringy bits all over the floor—and a rope that lasted all of ten minutes.
Rubber chew toys, especially the thick, solid ones made for “aggressive chewers,” are a totally different story. They’re usually heavier, a bit more expensive, and not as much fun to tug or fetch—but they shine when it comes to durability.
These are the toys your dog can gnaw on for hours without destroying (as long as you pick the right size and hardness for your dog). Even better, many are hollow or have treat-holding spaces, which adds a layer of mental stimulation that rope toys don’t usually offer.
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So, which is better? If your dog’s more into playing than chewing—and you’re okay tossing the rope when it starts to wear—a basic rope toy is a solid, budget-friendly pick. But if your dog is a destroyer with jaws of steel, and you’re looking for something that can actually last longer than a few days, a rubber chew toy is probably your best bet.
Still unsure? Try one of each—they’re both affordable enough that you can test and see what your dog really loves. And hey, at least one of them might survive the week!
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Taking your dog for a ride sounds fun—until they’re climbing into the front seat, trying to hang out the window, or sliding across the backseat every time you hit the brakes. Been there. As much as I love bringing my dog along for errands or adventures, I used to stress the whole drive wondering if she was actually safe.
Luckily, there are a few simple things that make a huge difference when it comes to car rides with dogs—both for safety and sanity.
A Crash-Tested Harness If you don’t want a crate in the car, a good harness that connects to the seatbelt is a great option. It keeps your dog from roaming or flying forward in case of a quick stop, and most dogs settle into it pretty quickly once they realize it means car ride!
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Seatbelt Clip or Tether These are basically short leashes that clip into your car’s seatbelt slot and attach to your dog’s harness (not their collar!). They’re super affordable and easy to move between vehicles—perfect for quick trips or carpool dogs.
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A Travel Crate If your pup is already crate-trained, this might be the most secure and stress-free option. Crates keep your dog contained, reduce motion sickness, and help with anxious riders who like their own little den. Just make sure it’s the right size and properly anchored.
For bigger dogs or longer trips, a backseat hammock or barrier keeps your pup from hopping into the front and also protects your seats from fur, drool, and muddy paws. Hammocks also create a sort of “nest” in the backseat that feels cozier for the dog.
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No matter what setup you choose, the goal’s the same: keep your dog safe, comfortable, and not in your lap while driving. Trust me, once you find the right combo, car rides get way less stressful—for both of you.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Getting a puppy can be an exciting time for most people. They can’t wait to add a fur ball to their life. They think of all the fun and love that a new puppy can bring into their lives.
That being said, it can also be stressful. Puppies can’t be left alone because they can get into such trouble in a short period of time. They need to learn what they can and can’t do. Potty training can be pretty overwhelming for everyone involved (including the puppy).
Struggling with your puppy? Here are some tips to help you raise a good dog.
When you first get your puppy, you don’t want to overwhelm him or her.
Give your new puppy time to get used to you and your family, as well as his or her new home. Though socializing is essential, you don’t need to have everyone come over and visit right away. You also don’t want to take him or her to the dog park or pet stores until he or she is fully protected with vaccines. Then, do it slowly.
If your pet looks overwhelmed or uncomfortable, it is time to go back home. Don’t push, or you may not be happy with your puppy’s behavior. They may become anxious in new situations and may lash out when feeling this way.
It helps to get into a routine.
You should put your puppy to bed at the same time every day, and get him or her up at a regular time. If you feed your puppy at the same time every day, he or she will end up going to the bathroom at regular intervals, which will help immensely when it comes to potty training.
With potty training, you need to listen to your puppy.
You may want to keep your puppy on a short leash so that you can watch them closely. This will also keep them from sneaking off to go to the bathroom in the house.
It also helps to take your pet to the same spot outside, so that he or she knows that is where it is safe to go to the bathroom. If you take your puppy out and nothing happens, put them in the crate and try again in a few minutes.
You need to get your puppy used to going to the veterinarian.
Puppies who go to the vets regularly aren’t scared of them. It may even help to take them a few times when they don’t have an appointment, to get them used to walking in the building and meeting the staff and other animals. If they learn early that the vet can be a good place where they get treats, they will be less likely to get scared as they get older.
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Make sure that you get them used to being handled.
Sometimes, the vet isn’t the problem. It may be the restraint, or your puppy may not like his or her feet touched. You should touch their feet regularly, along with their ears, and all over their body, so that you will be able to do this easily when they get older.
When you are playing with your new puppy, you need to consider what you are teaching them carefully.
It might be cute when your five-pound puppy jumps up at you, but once he or she is full-sized, you may get hurt by this action.
The same goes for play biting. You don’t want to teach your puppy that it is ok for him or her to bite you. You could seriously get injured when he or she is one hundred pounds!
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Getting a puppy can really change your home, though once you get him or her settled into a routine, you will just be able to enjoy your new bundle of joy. This is also the time to socialize your puppy. Make sure that going to the vet is a good thing, even if you take your new puppy to hang out and visit at the vet. You also want to get them used to being handled, including their ears and feet.
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Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Raise your hand if you’ve ever stood in the pet store staring at a wall of cat litter, totally overwhelmed. Clumping, non-clumping, clay, crystal, pine, tofu (yes, tofu!)—who knew cat litter could be so complicated?
I’ve tried more types than I care to admit, and here’s what I’ve figured out: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It really comes down to your cat’s preferences, your cleaning habits, and maybe your tolerance for smells (or dust).
Here’s a quick rundown of the most common types to help you make sense of it all:
Clumping Clay Litter Clumping litter is the classic. It forms solid clumps when wet, which makes scooping a breeze. Great for controlling odor, but it can be dusty—and heavier than other types.
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Non-Clumping Clay This litter is less expensive, but you’ll need to change the whole box more often. Not ideal if you want easy daily maintenance, but it can work in a pinch.
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Crystal (Silica) Litter These little beads absorb moisture and odors really well and last longer between changes. They’re low-dust and low-maintenance, though some cats don’t love the texture.
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Natural Litter (Pine, Corn, Wheat, etc.) These types of litter are made from plants and biodegradable materials. They are great if you want something eco-friendly. Some clump, some don’t, and they often have a natural scent (which your cat may or may not appreciate).
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Tofu Litter Yup, it’s a thing—and surprisingly good. It’s biodegradable, clumps well, and has low dust. Plus, it’s flushable in small amounts (check your plumbing first!).
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So, which one’s the best? Honestly—it depends! Some cats are super picky about texture or scent, so you might need to experiment a little. I always recommend starting with what works best for you (scooping schedule, budget, etc.), then adjusting based on your cat’s feedback.
Trying to find your perfect litter match? Don’t be afraid to test a few out. Your cat will have strong opinions—and probably let you know pretty quickly.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your usually sweet cat has suddenly turned into a couch-destroying, fight-picking, shadow-hiding ball of nerves… you’re not alone. Cats are notoriously sensitive to change. Something as small as rearranging furniture, switching up your schedule, or adding a new pet (or person) to the mix can throw their world off balance.
While some cats adjust quickly, others express their stress in ways that aren’t so subtle—scratching furniture, spraying, hiding, or even swatting at other pets. It’s frustrating to deal with, but they are just trying to tell you something.
Feliway is a calming product made just for cats. It mimics the natural pheromones that cats release when they feel safe, secure, and content. These pheromones are kind of like invisible “comfort signals” that help them relax. When your cat rubs their cheeks on you or their favorite spot? That’s them spreading those feel-good vibes.
Feliway comes in a plug-in diffuser or spray, so it’s super easy to use. Just plug it into the room where your cat spends the most time, or spray their favorite nap zone, carrier, or scratching post. It’s scentless to humans, but your cat picks up the calming message—and most start to feel more relaxed in just a few days.
One of the best parts? It’s drug-free. No sedatives, no pills to sneak into treats, no worrying about side effects. Feliway works with your cat’s natural behavior to create a more peaceful environment. Many vets recommend it for stress-related issues like:
Hiding or isolating
Inter-cat aggression
Over-grooming
Scratching or spraying
Changes in routine, visitors, or moving house
While Feliway isn’t a magic fix for every behavior issue, it can be a game-changer for stressed-out cats who need help feeling safe again. You might not see results overnight, but with consistent use, many pet parents report happier, calmer cats and less drama at home.
So if your cat has been acting a little “off” lately, or if you’re dealing with a stressful transition, Feliway could be the low-effort solution that brings a little more harmony back into your home—and keeps your couch scratch-free, too.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
As the forecast changes regularly, bringing with it more cold and winter weather, it is important to ensure everyone’s safety. This includes yourself, your family, and your pets! Everyone deserves to be warm and comfortable, no matter the weather.
Here are some tips to keep your pets safe in the snow.
Keep your pets inside as much as possible.
Just like you don’t want to be outside, your pets won’t want to be, either. Keep them inside except to use the bathroom and maybe play for a few minutes. Don’t overdo it.
You may want to get a coat or sweater for your pet.
If your pet has really short hair and shivers as soon as he or she goes outside, you may want to bundle him or her up in a coat or sweater.
Amazon has a lot of coats, like this one, that would keep your beloved dog warm all winter long!
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Dog boots can also be helpful.
Not only can the snow be harsh on your dog’s feet, but salt and other chemicals that are used to melt ice and snow can be hard on them, too! You should wipe your dog’s feet off as soon as they come in. Another option is to buy dog boots.
Amazon has a lot of dog booties, like these, that would keep your beloved dog’s feet warm all winter long!
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If you have outdoor dogs and cats, make sure that they have shelter.
They are going to need a dry place to hide from the weather, so make sure that they have a dry, draft-free shelter to spend time in. It is even better if the house is big enough for them to move around in, yet small enough to keep the heat in!
Make sure that your pets have enough food and water to stay warm in the cold weather.
Your outside pets may need some extra food to help them get through the winter. Water is also important, so make sure that you change the water regularly so they get enough fresh water that is not frozen.
Antifreeze can kill animals.
If you notice that your car is leaking anything, get it taken care of right away.
You also need to check your vehicles before leaving. Many cats and small animals will seek the warmth of your car. You could easily start your car, drive away, and kill the animal before you get too far!
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Just like you get cold when you go outside, your pets do too. They don’t want to be out in the weather any more than you do. For this reason, you need to keep your outside time limited. You may want to buy a sweater and boots to keep your pets safe when they are outside. For animals that live outside, make sure that they have a draft-free shelter and plenty of food and water!
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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It is also important that you understand that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
If you’re a pet parent, you already know the fur struggle is real. It shows up on your rugs, your furniture, your clothes—and if you’re not vacuuming daily, it feels like the dog or cat is winning. When you’re ready to ditch the cord but still want top-tier cleaning power, two big names usually top the list: the Dyson Gen5detect and the Shark Stratos Cordless with Clean Sense IQ.
Both are sleek, powerful, and made with pet owners in mind—but they each take a different approach to the same hairy problem.
The Dyson Gen5detect is Dyson’s most advanced cordless vacuum, and it shows. With up to 70 minutes of run time, this machine is loaded with high-tech features like a laser that illuminates hidden dust and an LCD screen that tells you exactly what you’re picking up (yep, it counts particles).
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It also comes with a HEPA filter that traps allergens and pet dander, making it great for allergy-prone homes. It’s lightweight, incredibly easy to maneuver, and adapts power depending on the floor type—hardwood, tile, carpet, it handles them all without needing to switch attachments constantly. Bonus: the digital motorbar head is designed to prevent pet hair tangles.
On the other hand, the Shark Stratos Cordless packs serious power into a slightly more budget-friendly price point—though it still belongs in the high-end category. It uses Clean Sense IQ to automatically boost suction when it detects messier areas (like your dog’s favorite nap spot), and the anti-odor technology helps neutralize pet smells while you vacuum.
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The dual brush roll is designed for hair pickup and works great on both hard floors and carpets, and Shark’s signature anti-wrap technology means fewer tangled messes to cut out. It’s slightly heavier than the Dyson but holds its own in suction and battery life.
So, which one’s better for you? Go for the Dyson Gen5detect if you want cutting-edge design, a long-lasting battery, and extra features like dust-detecting lasers and hyper-detailed feedback while you clean. It’s especially great if you have mixed flooring or suffer from pet allergies.
But if you’re looking for a slightly more affordable alternative that still offers excellent suction, odor control, and hair-handling power, the Shark Stratos Cordless is a seriously solid choice.
Either way, you’ll be making pet cleanup way easier—and maybe even (dare we say it?) a little bit satisfying.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
There is nothing more exciting than getting a puppy for Christmas. They make great gifts, but only if you and your whole family are ready. I should know. When I was a kid, I remember coming out on Christmas morning, only to hear a noisy box that we just had to open first!
Because this isn’t always the best idea, I thought that I would ask my other veterinary technician friends to see what their thoughts were on the subject, and as you can imagine, there were not many reasons why it is a good idea, but there are plenty of reasons why you should hold off.
Here are some reasons why you may want to give a puppy as a gift for Christmas.
If you and your family are ready for a puppy, this can be a great surprise.
As I mentioned above, I will never forget the Christmas when we got a puppy when I was a kid.
It can also be a romantic and thoughtful gift from someone you love.
The memories will last a lifetime!
Here are some reasons why you should not give a puppy as a gift for Christmas.
Many puppy mills and backyard breeders bank on people buying puppies for Christmas.
When you choose to buy a puppy right around the holidays, you are just supporting their businesses. They will continue breeding as much as possible, in order to supply puppies for Christmas and all throughout the year, without any thought for the parents.
Money is often tight during the holidays, so your budget may not be able to afford a puppy.
Puppies need to go to the veterinarian every three to four weeks until they are sixteen weeks old to receive full vaccinations. They also need to be dewormed. Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention also costs money. If the cost of the puppy is too much, you need to think about all the other costs associated with a puppy.
What if there is an emergency?
Puppies also like to eat things. Christmas morning is often a mess of wrapping paper, tissue paper, and new toys. There are plenty of things that a puppy can eat that they shouldn’t.
Not to mention all the extra food that is available during the holidays. Puppies and dogs can’t handle a lot of the food that could be dropped during holiday meals. This can lead to expensive emergency visits.
If you are having a party, you may have a lot of people coming and going.
Your puppy (who doesn’t really know where home is yet) could get out and run away. You may never find your precious puppy again. Even worse, your puppy could be hit by a car.
The holidays are also one of the top reasons for dog bites.
With lots of people in and out of your home, along with strange dogs, your new puppy may be very overwhelmed. He or she could bite (or get bitten by another dog) in the confusion of the holidays.
Because of the confusion of the holidays, routines go out the window.
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New puppies thrive on routines in order to settle in. They need to know when they should eat, when they should go to bed, and when it is playtime. Not to mention potty training. It can be tough to potty-train a puppy that doesn’t eat at the same time every day!
Even worse, you may have the puppy for a month or so until things settle down, and you can get into a routine. This is really important time for a puppy to adjust to his or her new home.
Your children may go to school bragging about how Santa brought them a puppy.
Other children may not understand why they can’t get one from Santa! If your children still believe in Santa, it can be hard to explain why one family gets a puppy from Santa when all they got were a few small things!
Because of this, too many puppies and dogs find themselves in shelters right after the holidays.
If you ask anyone who works in a shelter, they will tell you that shelters fill up right after the holidays because of inadequate planning. Whether you bought someone a dog that didn’t fit their lifestyle or they simply didn’t really want a puppy, many puppies and dogs find themselves homeless after the fun of a new puppy wears off!
So, what can you do if you want to give someone a puppy for the holidays?
Another veterinary technician recommended getting a gift certificate to a shelter so that your loved one can choose the perfect pet for their lifestyle.
Too many people buy puppies or dogs without considering their lifestyle. Though the puppy may be cute, your loved one may not have the energy that a herding dog needs. He or she may be better off getting a lap puppy! They may not want a long-haired dog that requires daily brushing. They may not have the money for the groomer every six to eight weeks.
He or she could even wait until things settle down after the holidays, when it would be a better time to get a new puppy or dog. There might even be more of a selection as Christmas gifts end up in the shelter!
By allowing him or her to pick out his or her new dog, which is just what the family needs, the gift will continue to be a blessing instead of becoming a hassle that the person was not ready for.
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Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
