Our friends over at Purina created this simple graphic to help you understand some of the key reasons that puppies and dogs often like to chew. It’s important to give your puppy or dog appropriate chew toys and treats so they can have relieve pent up stress and energy… and have some fun! It’s also important, of course, to keep things like shoes and other chew-licious items safely out of your dog or puppy’s reach, as they can chew off chunks of material which could cause a life-threatening intestinal blockage. Even chew toys designed for dogs often say to allow your dog to chew only when supervised, in case your pup has Godzilla-like chewing power. Chewing appropriate things also can help keep teeth and gums strong, clean, and healthy. Let’s hear it for chewing!
Author: Jennifer
Wild Things – A Guest Journal
For this blog post we are trying something a little different! This is a personal story written by Noelle Newby, when her newly rescued Chihuahua became paralyzed. We recently shared another wonderful article from our Petcentric friends about how amazing disabled animals can be as pets, and how you can find disabled pets for adoption by clicking “special needs” when doing a dog or cat search at www.Adopt-a-Pet.com. “Bearing witness to her spunky persistence fills me with awe and wonde,” Newby writes. “She’s enjoying life, despite the setback.” We can learn so much from our pets! We hope you’ll find this story as inspiring and beautiful as we did.
“Wild Things”
written by Noelle Newby
I never saw a wild thing
sorry for itself.
A small bird will drop frozen dead from a bough
without ever having felt sorry for itself.
With a B.A. in English, I’m embarrassed to admit that until recently, I only associated this D.H. Lawrence poem, “Self Pity”, with an image of Demi Moore shaving her head and taking a beating to become the first female Navy Seal in the 1997 blockbuster, G.I. Jane. These poignant words, which conjure a stark and brutal visual, came alive for me a month ago, when my Chihuahua rescue, Chula, became paralyzed. Chula showed certain reactions at the onset of her paralysis – confusion, pain, and need – but never a shadow of surrender.
I however, was an emotional wreck. I cried, Chula tried…tried to walk, recover, and persevere. The vet diagnosed a slipped and ruptured disc; putting pressure on her spinal column to the extent her hind legs were no longer of use. Emergency surgery was scheduled. As I placed her in the vet tech’s arms, she licked my face eagerly – seemingly comforting me in the midst of her own crisis.
That day, and every day since, I have been amazed by this 6-lb wonder. Emerging from surgery with an incision half the length of her body, she immediately began the transition from surviving to thriving. Walking on her front legs with the help of a harness, she eagerly, if gingerly re-explored her yard, claiming dominance over every two and four-legged creature in my home. Bit by bit, day by day she’s gotten better. First flopping, then scooting, now walking on all fours; without grace, though not without difficulty. She’s enjoying life, despite the setback. I know it’s only a matter of time before she’s recovered – with a scar and perhaps a slight limp. But I doubt these lingering imprints of injury will cloud her innate joy as she scampers sassily through the rest of her days.
Bearing witness to her spunky persistence fills me with awe and wonder. What a role model she and her animal cohorts are; wired to survive at all costs. They aren’t burdened with thought, regret, fear of future or, as Lawrence notes, self pity. They live in the present moment, every messy, blessed one of them. The weight of yesterday or tomorrow doesn’t suffocate them as it does us, their human companions.
I wish I could say the same of my own evolution in this life. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve stalled, thwarting progress, wallowing, to throw frequent parties for myself – pity parties. Rehashing wrongs committed/received, opportunities lost, pain suffered, and fretting over an uncertain future. It amazes me how easily I get stuck. I fall down, stay there awhile, force myself up only to fall down again. Though with each stumble, I stay down for shorter durations, as I realize joy only accompanies me when I’m standing strong. With every new adventure, mundane or audacious – I have the choice to succumb to old habits, or practice and embrace new ones. While I know this on the deepest level – I, like all of us, can forget.
For the past 15 years, I suffered from debilitating migraines – unimaginable pain – daily and merciless. ER visits were, at minimum, quarterly occurrences, and I dwindled to fewer than 110 pounds on my 5’10” frame. Seemingly, my will to fight and rally vanished with each searing headache. Ultimately, I admitted myself to an in-patient migraine program. That last surge of will or submission – I’m still not sure which, saved my life. I’ve been healthy for over two years now, and am thankful for another chance at living. Unlike Chula, I have no visible scars from my experience – nothing that the outside world can point to and say – this person has survived trauma. Like most of us, my scars are on the inside. I still fight fear – fear that this reprieve is temporary, and that ghosts of pain and suffering hover above me, waiting for the opportune time to return. But I will never be a willing host again.
As part of reclaiming my body, a statement to my renewed health, I’ve been training for my first marathon this coming fall. I’ve always loved running, but have never attempted anything so drastic. I’d like this for myself. To tap into the well of strength I know my body is capable of, versus the physical and mental atrophy of its past.
Training for a marathon is no easy feat for anyone, but it is incredibly taxing on me – especially in the heated heart of the unforgiving Texas summer. After a particularly brutal run recently, a heat-induced migraine washed through my temples, while a lingering psoas injury screamed, and my mind joined in protest – replaying old tracks like a skipping LP: “I can’t do this. I’m not strong enough. My limitations are too great.” A wave of self pity started to engulf me as the harsh mixture of tears and sweat stung my eyes. In that moment, the image of the little Chihuahua-that-could flashed across the theater of my mind, replacing the swell of “poor me” with hope and strength. I remembered self-pity was a choice we humans have, not an innate reaction. I chose to limp those last two miles with my head held high. It was the best run I could do that day – and doing MY best is the crux of the journey – whether the course is five miles or 26.2.
I keep this tenet tucked carefully in my soul, and do my best to stay present. If not, like the memory of recurring suffering, the hangover from a bad run or the worry of the next, overwhelms. I do my best to disallow the perpetuation of this unhealthy pattern. In doing so, I, like many of us, return; to life and the run. I tie my shoes and steel my resolve to move forward. At times I may flop, scoot or progress with great difficulty. But every once in awhile, I run and live with grace, speed and ease; the sweet reward for all the trial and effort. I guess we’re all wild things after all.
You Can Teach Your Cat to Sit In 10 minutes!
Think cats can’t be trained? Most cats love being trained, they get to be the center of your attention and eat yummy treats! You can teach almost any cat to sit in less than 10 minutes. The trick is having a bribe (treat) that your cat really really wants. Experiment a bit, there are lots of treats to try, and every cat is different! Of course, you’ll have to repeat the routine for your kitty to remember it. Repetition and consistency are the hallmarks of all good training.
Place your cat on an elevated surface, such as a table. It may assist you if the cat’s back is to a wall. Allow kitty to get a good whiff of your bribe. When the cat shows interest, slowly raise the morsel (you may place the goodie in a teaspoon or between your fingers) along an invisible line from the cat’s nose to a point between its ears. Don’t raise the treat too quickly or too high over the cat’s ears. Say the cat’s name, the command “sit,” and then click the clicker while presenting the reward when kitty does what you want. Now, praise your smart cat, and pet her.
If the cat isn’t following the treat, either your kitty isn’t hungry, you’re waving the treat too high above the cat or that goodie doesn’t smell good enough.
Repeat these training sessions often enough and eventually your cat will sit at your feet whenever he or she is in the mood for a treat. Don’t overdo compliance, or you’ll have a cat who is training you. Ask friends and relatives to command your cat to “sit” for a treat. Soon, Kitty will be more outgoing, and more interested in “sitting” for your guest, hoping for the possibility.
This article is a reprint from our friends over at Purina® Cat Chow® and their wonderful Cat and kitten Care Library.
Your Dog Could Be in a TV Commercial!
Inside every good dog is a great dog. Capture a short video of your great dog doing whatever he does best — fetching, surfing, sprinting, or anything. Share it with Purina® Pro Plan® before noon on August 27th, 2012, and your dog could be in their next commercial!* Perhaps your dog is an incredible athelte, or a model employee. Maybe he knows a unique trick, or has won ribbons as shows. However your dog shows his greatness, Purina® Pro Plan® wants you to show it to them. You could win a role for your dog in the next Purina® Pro Plan® commercial, a trip to the 2013 Westminster Dog Show, and a year’s supply of Pro Plan®. Click that link and get inspired by watching videos of the great dogs on the Purina® Pro Plan® page.*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States and D.C., 18 years of age or older (19 years of age or older if a resident of AL or NE). Entry period ends at 11:59:59 a.m. ET on 8/27/12. See Official Rules for details. Sponsored by Nestlé Purina PetCare Company, Checkerboard Square, St. Louis, MO.
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Worlds of Wonder contest
We wanted to let you know about the Worlds of Wonder contest being put on by Friskies. The four grand prizes are valued at $8,500 to $10,000. If you win, you’ll choose one of four adventures: Signature Blend Mountain Ranch Adventure (at the pet-friendly Triple Creek Ranch in Montana), Seafood Sensations Paradise Island Adventure (at the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas), Indoor Delights Tree House Adventure (at The Tree House Lodge in Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge in Costa Rica) or the Feline Favorites Build-Your-Own Adventure (Awarded in the form of a $10,000 gift certificate to Carlson Travel). There are also two types of online instant-win prizes: A coupon for Friskies 3.15-lb dry cat food up to $4.97 each (6,624 total, 24 available per day) or a very cute Friskies-Branded Cat Food Bowl, Average Retail Value $17.50 each (2,760 total, 10 available per day). We like those kind of odds of winning! To enter the contest read on…
To Enter the Contest: First you need a Game code. Game codes are inside specially-marked 3.15 lb bags of Friskies dry cat food, and available via mail for free. (Details at http://www.friskies.com/Worlds-of-Wonder/Faqs/Default.aspx#sweeps). Then you have to join their free club for cat-lovers. All fields are required, and you’ll need to choose a unique user name. Then, you have to play four times to be entered to win one of the four grand prizes. You have from now until 1/31/10 to play.
Got your code and you’re ready? Enter on their website at http://friskies.com/Worlds-of-Wonder/Default.aspx.
Should I Adopt a Kitten or Adult Cat?
By Courtney Elliott
Marko / Stocksy
Thinking about welcoming a cat into your home? Felines make excellent companions, but you may be wondering if you should adopt a kitten or adult cat. While kittens are playful and energetic, they require more training and attention. Adult cats, on the other hand, are more laid-back and independent, and may be a better fit for busy people or households with young children. The process of figuring out which animal to adopt comes down to more than just losing yourself in tiny kitten toe beans. It’s important to consider your lifestyle and how you can be a successful pet parent. Here are some of the benefits and challenges of kittens versus cats.
What are the benefits of getting a kitten?
Bringing a kitten into your home can bring an endless amount of joy and companionship. Other than their undeniable cuteness, here are some benefits of getting a kitten.
Bonding and socialization
Raising and nurturing a kitten is a rewarding experience, and because kittens are so young, they tend to form strong bonds with their pet parents. Kittens are also generally more adaptable to new environments. They can grow up accustomed to various experiences and people, meaning that they may be more easygoing and socialized when they grow into an adult.
Lifelong companionship
By getting a kitten, you potentially enjoy a longer period of companionship, as you get to share their entire lifespan. Seeing them go from tiny, curious creatures to intelligent, full-grown adults can be a really fascinating and gratifying journey.
Training and habits
With a clean slate, you have the opportunity to shape a kitten’s behavior and habits from an early age. Litter training, scratching behavior, and social skills are all areas you can have an influence over with a kitten. Kittenhood is the best time to train them to accept being handled by humans, especially in their sensitive spots, such as their stomachs and feet.
Playful energy
Kittens are known for their playful antics and boundless energy. If you enjoy interactive play and forming a dynamic relationship, a kitten might be the perfect fit for you. This is a good time to teach them which types of play are appropriate so that they don’t think that mauling your hand is good fun.
What are the pros and cons of adopting a kitten?
While play, nurturing, and kitten snuggles are all part of the package, it’s not all fun and games when it comes to these young felines. Here are the pros and cons of adopting a kitten.
Pros of adopting a kitten
- Kittens enjoy a lot of attention.
- Kittens bring joy and playfulness to the household.
- Kitten form strong bonds with their pet parents.
- You can better shape their behavior and habits.
Cons of adopting a kitten
- Kittens take a lot of time and energy for training.
- Kittens require more cleaning and maintenance.
- You need to be home more often to supervise.
- Kittens might be in more danger around children.
- Kittens bite more than adult cats.
- Initial veterinary costs for vaccinations and spaying/neutering may be expensive.
- Adoption fees for kittens are typically higher than for adult cats.
What are the benefits of getting an older cat?
OK, so that was kittens. Now let’s talk about choosing to adopt an older cat. Here are some benefits of getting an adult cat.
Less training required
There’s a very good chance that an adult cat will already be trained to use the litter box when they come into your home. They will also likely have a better idea of what type of play is appropriate. At the same time, this can heavily depend on the individual cat and their living situation prior to joining your family.
Established personality
One of the coolest things about having a cat is discovering their unique quirks. While kittens are still finding their way, adult cats come with personalities that are ready to shine. Adopting an adult cat allows you to choose a companion whose character aligns perfectly with your lifestyle and preferences.
Time requirements
Adult cats often require less time and energy. They tend to be pretty independent and will go about their day without a lot of attention. This makes them an excellent choice for those with busy schedules or looking for a more laid-back four-legged family member.
Higher need
Adults and senior cats often need loving homes more urgently than kittens do. This not only means you’re making a big difference by offering a home to a cat in need, but that you’ll also likely have a broader selection to choose from when adopting.
Quieter home
A kitten might tear around the house at all hours, hurling themselves at anything they think will give them even a moment’s entertainment, but an adult cat will probably be a lot happier to just flop in a comfy spot for much of the day. Adult cats’ playful antics are balanced with a sense of maturity, creating a quieter and more relaxed living environment for you both. That’s not to say that a grown cat won’t decide to have the occasional case of the midnight zoomies (quieter doesn’t mean quiet).
What are the pros and cons of adopting an adult cat?
While welcoming a grown feline into your home has its many perks, there are some challenging aspects that are worth considering. Let’s explore the pros and cons of adopting an adult cat.
Pros of adopting an adult cat
- Adult cats are most likely already trained.
- Adult cats need less supervision and attention.
- Adult cats have developed personalities.
- Adult cats typically cost less than kittens.
- Adult cats come with a known health status.
Cons of adopting an adult cat
- Adult cats may come with underlying health issues.
- Pet parents have less influence on shaping behavior.
- You’ll likely have a shorter time together than you would with a kitten.
- Adult cats may have potential attachment issues and take time to warm up.
Ultimately, both kittens and cats come with their own set of benefits and challenges, offering distinct experiences that cater to various lifestyles. A kitten may be a good option if you’re ready to spend a lot of time nurturing and training them and have the budget to spend on higher adoption fees and early vet visits. If you prefer less of a time commitment and would rather lounge with a more established cat, adopting an adult cat is the way to go.
Whether you’re enchanted by the boundless energy of a kitten or drawn to the established charm of an adult cat, the decision ultimately rests on your personal preferences, daily routine, and the commitment you’re ready to embrace. As you start life with your new addition, remember that both kittens and adult cats have the capacity to become cherished members of your family, bringing warmth, companionship, and tons of joy into your life.
How do I decide which one is right for me?
Choosing between a kitten and an adult cat depends on your lifestyle and preferences. Are you okay with kitten messes, scratches, and midnight zoomies? If you have the time and energy for playful antics and training, a kitten might be the perfect fit.
On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more laid-back companion with an established personality, an adult cat could be the ideal match. Consider your daily routine, living space, and the level of commitment you’re ready to provide. Visiting local shelters and spending time with both kittens and adult cats can also help you gauge which companion captures your heart.
FAQs (People also ask)
Is there a cost difference between adopting a kitten and an adult cat?
While the cost of adopting a kitten versus an adult cat can vary, adult cats typically cost less than kittens. Kittens might also incur initial expenses for vaccinations and spaying/neutering. However, it’s essential to consider ongoing expenses, such as food, grooming, and healthcare for both kittens and cats. It’s a good idea to check with local shelters or rescue organizations to understand the specific costs associated with adopting either age group.
Are there breed-specific considerations when choosing between a kitten and an adult?
When choosing between a kitten and an adult cat, breed considerations can play a role in your decision. Some breeds, such as certain long-haired, hairless cats or highly active breeds, may require more grooming or playtime. Individual personalities, however, can vary widely within a breed. Spending time with cats of different breeds and ages can help you identify the characteristics that align with your preferences. Focusing on the unique qualities of each cat (kitten or adult), rather than solely on their breed can guide you toward the perfect companion.
References
Courtney Elliott, a proud Cleveland native living in Manhattan, blends her decade of writing and editing expertise with her unshakable devotion as a pet parent to her French Bulldog, Gus. When she’s not at her desk, you’ll find her frolicking in Central Park or engrossed in a good book at a local coffee shop.
What's New at AdoptaPet in November 2023
| Questions? First, try our Help Library. Then, if you still need help, email helpdesk@adoptapet.com. We’ll reply within 1 business day. Thank you! |
Make the most of holiday fundraising
The holiday giving season is here! From PetFundr to PayPal and Instagram to TikTok, we have a list of tools and advice to help you make the most of fundraising online.
See the List
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Check out this live webinar
Are you a leader looking to create a more inclusive work environment? Our friends at AAWA are hosting a live webinar, Creating a Workplace that Truly Fosters Inclusion, on 12/06/2023 that’s free for everyone.
Register Here
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Share these safety tips
Before you pass the gravy, check out these free materials from our friends at Nationwide. You’ll find holiday poisoning prevention tips, plus resources to print and post in your organization and share with adopters.
See Digital Resources
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Make holiday travel with pets a breeze
Traveling with pets this holiday season doesn’t have to be stressful for your adopters. Check out these tips from Zoetis for smooth sailing (or road-tripping or flying), wherever they go this season.
See Travel Tips
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Shop PetSmart for your holiday gifting needs
Have you checked your pet off your holiday shopping list yet? Shop at PetSmart to find gifts for every pet and pet parent in your life.
Shop Now
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And, of course… We thank the wonderful, pet-loving sponsors for supporting all of us in our mission and making Adopt a Pet a free service!
See past issues of What’s New in the archives.
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Seniors for Seniors Dog Adoption
By Daniela Lopez
Samantha Gehrmann / Stocksy
Unconditional love from a companion pet is something that everyone can relish. Dogs, in particular, can be the perfect companions for seniors, offering unwavering loyalty, boundless joy, and that special brand of unconditional love. These qualities are especially meaningful because pets don’t see wrinkles or physical limitations; they simply see someone to adore and who adores them in return.
For senior citizens, a pet’s devotion and affection can contribute to increased happiness and even better health. Medical professionals who work with seniors have long recognized the benefits that a pet can bring to the lives of elderly individuals. Read up on the advantages of adopting a pet through senior-for-senior rescue programs and learn how to select the right dog.
What is a seniors-for-seniors dog adoption?
Senior-for-senior dog adoption programs are designed to encourage older adults, typically aged 60 or older, to adopt senior pets, aged seven years or older. These adoption campaigns create a mutually beneficial relationship for both seniors and senior pets. While the specifics of each program vary depending on the rescue or shelter running it, some offer reduced or waived adoption fees to make adopting a senior pet more accessible to seniors. Pairing a senior dog with a senior citizen makes picking a dog more straightforward because pet parents can better assess their temperament and energy level, and often, they’re already trained.
Benefits for seniors
- Provide independence: A dog offers a sense of well-being and independence, helping to prevent stress, depression, and loneliness through the routine needed to care for them.
- Give people a purpose: Being responsible for another living creature can add new meaning and purpose to a senior’s life.
- Improve mental health: Caring for a dog with activities such as feeding, grooming, and walking helps people stay active mentally, and thus enhances and increases the quality of their life.
- Improve physical health: Numerous clinical studies verify that having a pet can benefit a human’s physical health. For senior people that results in lower blood pressure, decreased stress, reduction in bone loss, lower cholesterol levels, and improved blood circulation.
Benefits for the dog
- Increased adoption rates: Senior dogs are less likely to be adopted, so you’re giving them a second chance at life.
- Love and companionship: Senior dogs are eternally thankful for finding a loving home and will be forever devoted.
- Improved lifestyle: Senior dogs don’t require as much exercise; they’re happy to just hang out at home with someone who loves them.
- Longer lifespan: Stuck in a shelter with hard floors and little attention, senior dogs languish. But with a loving companion they can bond with, senior dogs can thrive.
Why are senior dogs a good match for older adults?
Many senior citizens are looking for companionship and social interaction. And senior dogs, with their calmer and more relaxed nature, can provide excellent companionship without the activity a younger dog might require. Senior dogs tend to have lower energy levels and exercise requirements, which can be a good match for older adults. While senior dogs still enjoy playing (which can help a person be more active), they are generally just less demanding in their needs. Senior dogs can also provide an overall calming presence which can provide a boost to anyone’s emotional well-being.
What rescues offer seniors-for-seniors dog adoption programs?
- Muttville / CA: Muttville is a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization dedicated to improving the lives of senior dogs.
- Paws / WA: PAWS is a champion for animals — adopting homeless cats and dogs, and educating people to make a better world for animals and people.
- North Shore Animal League / NY: North Shore Animal League America is the world’s largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption organization.
- Furry Friends Rescue / CA: Furry Friends is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to rescuing, fostering, and finding homes for companion animals.
How long do senior dogs live?
Unlike a puppy who needs a lot of care, training, and attention for 15 to 25 years, a senior dog may live for only half as long. Depending on their age at adoption, a senior dog may only live another three to 10 years.
Helping seniors keep their pets
Many shelters and rescues also offer discounted services such as training, vet care, vaccinations, and even food. Meals on Wheels for pet programs are also available in some areas of the country.
Choosing the best dog for seniors
Adopting the right kind of dog can improve a senior person’s life. People of all ages should understand that caring for a pet comes with responsibilities, commitment, and time, as well as physical and financial requirements — for senior people, these can be a bit different. Before acquiring a new pet, have a financial plan in place that will assure the care of your dog if you are temporarily or permanently unable to provide full or partial care of your pet.
Look for dogs more suitable for seniors, such as smaller breeds, calmer dogs, and those that require less grooming. Start your search on Adopt a Pet.
References
Having a dog can help your heart — literally
Safe Cat Collars: Are All Collars Safe For Cats?
Looking for a cat collar? Learn more about the safety of collars and how you can choose the right collar for your kitty.
Cinema Tigers / Stocksy
Did you know that a properly tested cat collar can be a lifesaver? Everyone who knows how many cats are unclaimed in shelters (up to 95% in many areas) can understand the importance of ID tags and microchips for every pet. A microchip is a critical form of ID for any pet since it can’t be removed. But collars and tags are important, too. People who find pets without a collar and ID often mistakenly think a pet has been abandoned, when in fact, they may have just escaped or gone accidentally astray. But what about the risks that collars pose to cats? If you’re considering adopting a cat or are a new pet parent trying a collar on their cat for the first time need may not know about collar and tag dangers — and how to avoid them. Here are three important cat collar tests that will keep your new cat or kitten safe and happy in their collar.
Test your cat’s collar
1. Test the buckle.
Most cat collars now have a safety feature built in — either a “breakaway” buckle, elastic stretching portion, or an entire collar made of elastic material. These designs are intended to allow a cat who is caught on an object to twist and safely slide out of the collar. However, it is important to test the collar you purchase. How easily does the buckle come undone? If your cat gets caught and hangs, will it function as it should?
For collars that stretch, is it enough of a stretch that it will easily slide off over your cat’s head, but — and this is so important — can also be tight enough so your cat can not get their lower jaw under the collar, and get stuck? See step #2 for how to reduce this risk.
2. Test the fit.
The rule of thumb — or fingers really — is snug enough so you can just slide two fingers under the collar. Too loose, and it is too easy for a cat to get their mouth under the collar. And we have seen cats that have gotten their jaw stuck, panicked and severely mangled their face with their front and back claws drying to “escape” from a collar that was partially choking them! Cats — especially kittens — are amazingly flexible. That is why step #3 is so important too.
3. Test your cat.
Please do not put a collar on a cat and leave them unsupervised. Even if the cat seems fine at first and ignores the collar, as they move around, try to eat or drink, lie down, or play, they may suddenly become bothered by this new thing around their neck and try to get it off. Watch your cat closely for the first house and then, if you can no longer have your eyes on your cat, take the collar off. Put it back on only when you’ll be able to see immediately if your cat gets their jaw stuck or goes into a panic to get the collar off. Gradually build up the amount of time your cat spends in the collar. If you notice your cat still trying to chew on or get their jaw under the collar, even after several days of building up how long they have been wearing it, your cat may be one of the few cats who can not safely wear a collar.
Most cats do adjust to happily and safely wearing a collar! In a 6-month-long cat collar study done by Ohio State University, 90% of pet parents said they planned to keep the collars on their cats after the study was completed.
Tags that don’t hang
For cats, the safest type of tag is one that is attached to or clips onto the collar. There are many types of tag designs that avoid the dangers of a hanging tag. A hanging tag ring or hook can get caught and defeat the function of a safety collar. You can search online for a CollarTag for one that clips onto a cat collar.
So why not just leave off a collar? The dangers of a lost cat escaping and not being returned home outweigh the risk of a cat getting a collar caught, especially if you’re talking them out for a walk. Life is never risk-free. Limit the collar risks by properly purchasing, fitting, and monitoring your cat’s collar, and you’ll greatly reduce the risks of losing your cat, too.
Most Popular Pet Names
Valerii Honcharuk / AdobeStock
As a foster volunteer, I’ve had the opportunity to encounter numerous pets and the distinct names they’ve been given. Some names are timeless, like Max and Bella, reminiscent of the classic lap-dog era. Others draw inspiration from pop culture – pets named Chewbacca and Lady Gaga are not uncommon.
We’ve recently passed through a fruit phase (Apricot, Mango, Apple, Raisin, Kiwi), film directors (George, Lucas, Alfred, David, Stanley, Robert, Martin, Clint), and royalty (Kate, Elizabeth, William, Diana, Charles).
From Bubbles to Arya, the range of names is limitless. Pet names often carry a piece of the pet’s history or reflect aspirations for a pet. New pet parents, just like new baby parents, may find inspiration within their family history… or on their countertops. Let’s explore the current trends among pet parents when it comes to naming their companions. And if you’re not finding the right name, try these black dog names, silly pet names, and pit bull names.
Most popular dog names
- Charlie
- Lucy
- Max
- Bella
- Cooper
- Luna
- Buddy
- Daisy
- Jack
- Lola
Most popular cat names
- Charlie
- Luna
- Leo
- Lucy
- Max
- Bella
- Milo
- Sophie
- Jack
- Stella
Most popular rabbit names
- Peter (from “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” by Beatrix Potter)
- Beatrix (in honor of Beatrix Potter, the author)
- Alice (from Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland”)
- White Rabbit (also from “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland”)
- Eeyore (from A.A. Milne’s “Winnie the Pooh”)
- Benjamin (from “The Tale of Benjamin Bunny” by Beatrix Potter)
- Mopsy (a character in Beatrix Potter’s stories)
- Bilbo (from J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit”)
Popular pet bird names
- Sunny
- Tweety
- Peep
- Feather
- Kiwi
- Blue
- Mango
- Cherry
- Pip
- Echo
- Rio
- Robin
- Starling
- Flap
- Dove
- Jasper
- Merlin
Popular pet names
These pet names are favored by pet parents across the board.
- Rocky
- Lily
- Chloe
- Oliver
- Tucker
- Sadie
- Bailey
- Zoey
- Duke
- Ruby
- Milo
- Rosie
Popular pet names inspired by TV
These names not only pay homage to iconic TV characters but also add a touch of pop culture flair to your pet’s identity.
- Arya (inspired by “Game of Thrones”)
- Mabel (from “Only Murders in the Building”)
- Daryl (a nod to “The Walking Dead”)
- Eleven (for “Stranger Things” fans)
- Greg (a bit of Greg sprinkles from “Succession”)
- Walter (from “Breaking Bad”)
- Dexter (inspired by the show of the same name)
- Sugar (nickname of Natalie from “The Bear”)
- Buffy (a tribute to “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”)
- Mulder (from “The X-Files”)
- Scully (for fans of “The X-Files”)
- Sydney (from “The Bear”)
- Roman (or Romulan from “Succession”)
- Phoebe (a nod to “Friends”)
- Negan (for “The Walking Dead” enthusiasts)
- Don Draper (from “Mad Men”)
- Ross (a reference to “Friends”)
- Willow (from “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”)
Popular pet names inspired by mythology
Mythology has long been a source of inspiration for pet names. Here’s a list of popular names inspired by myths and legends.
- Athena (Greek)
- Thor (Norse)
- Apollo (Greek)
- Freya (Norse)
- Zeus (Greek)
- Hera (Greek)
- Odin (Norse)
- Persephone (Greek)
- Anubis (Egyptian)
- Freyja (Norse)
- Loki (Norse)
- Artemis (Greek)
- Ra (Egyptian)
- Hades (Greek)
- Amaterasu (Japanese)
- Bastet (inspired by Egyptian mythology)
- Hermes (Greek)
- Epona (Celtic)
- Fenrir (Norse)
- Selene (Greek)
Popular pet fish names
Whether you’re adopting a goldfish, bettas, or any other type of fish these popular fish names with add a splash of fun.
- Bubbles
- Nemo
- Fin
- Splash
- Gill
- Flounder
- Dory
- Jaws
- Goldie
- Swimmy
- Flash
- Neptune
- Coral
- Rainbow
- Sharky
- Scaley
- Triton
- Ariel
*Most popular dog and cat names from TrustedHousesitters.com