Tag: First Batch

Can Cats Smell Cancer?

Studies have been done that concluded that dogs can detect cancer, but only anecdotal evidence exists that cats can smell cancer.

How Is It Possible For A Cat To Smell Cancer?

If it turns out that cats can actually detect cancer, it will likely have to do with their sense of smell. While dogs have a far superior sense of smell than cats, a cat’s sense of smell is nothing to sneeze at – it far surpasses that of a human.

One theory is that this keen sense of smell allows them to detect changes in the body. Some experts believe cats could be trained to detect cancer and use their powerful noses in other useful ways as well.  

My Cat Keeps Pawing At A Spot On My Body – Should I Worry? 

Probably not, but if your cat (or dog) seems particularly interested in one side of your chest on more than one occasion, it wouldn’t hurt to mention it to your doctor. After all, it wouldn’t be the first time a cat helped save their owner’s life by alerting them to a tumor. 

Am I Allergic To My Cat?

You may be allergic to your cat if you notice symptoms such as swelling and itching around your nose and eyes, congestion, or a rash on your face, neck, or chest. An allergist can diagnose a cat allergy with a skin test. While it is bad news for a cat owner to be allergic to their pet, the good news is that, in most cases, there are simple treatments that will allow you to keep your feline friend in your home.

It’s Not Just The Fur 

You could be allergic to your cat’s fur, but that’s not the only thing that can cause cat allergy symptoms. Your symptoms may also be triggered by:

  •  Cat Dander
  • Saliva
  • Urine 

It doesn’t take a lot of exposure; breathing in or touching pet dander may be all it takes to set off your allergies.

I Think I’m Allergic: When to See a Doctor 

Self-diagnosis is never a good idea, and Dr. Google has led many people astray with either misinformation or improperly applied information. The symptoms of a cat allergy are very similar to those of a cold or other allergies. Rather than rushing to judgement and blaming Fluffy, make an appointment with an allergist. If you are allergic to your cat, the doctor can likely prescribe something to bring you some relief.

If the cat isn’t to blame, the allergist will be able to help you pinpoint what is making you miserable.

Common treatments include:

  • Antihistamines
  • Corticosteroid Nasal Sprays
  • Cromolyn Sodium
  • Allergy Shots 

DIY Treatment 

Many people are opposed to taking prescription medication. If your symptoms are fairly mild, it’s possible to treat your cat allergies by rinsing your nasal passages with saline water or taking over-the-counter decongestant sprays.

If you suspect an allergy to your cat, don’t panic. Visit your doctor to be sure that’s what you’re dealing with, and then work on treatments that allow you to keep your pet without suffering with allergy symptoms. For more help, check out Tips to reduce allergies to pets on our blog. 

Why Is My Cat Suddenly Chewing On Everything?

Your cat may be suddenly chewing on everything due to anxiety, a medical condition, or even just because he realized it’s an activity he enjoys. While adult cats don’t usually chew as much as dogs, it is a normal behavior. Still, depending on what they chew, it can be annoying to you and dangerous to them. That’s why it’s important to redirect their chewing away from harmful objects.

My Cat is Chewing Stuff. Now What? 

If your adult cat was never a chewer and the behavior has manifested suddenly, it’s a good idea to pay a visit to the vet just as you would with any other change in your cat’s habits. Once a medical issue has been ruled out, you can focus on trying to prevent inappropriate chewing.

Redirect the Chewing

When you notice your cat chewing, offer him a toy instead. Many times, the toy will bring out the predator in your cat, and he’ll be happy chewing on their “prey” instead of your belongings.

More Play Time

Your cat could be chewing out of boredom. Try spending more time with your cat playing with and/or grooming him.

Provide Stimulating Toys

Puzzle toys and other interactive options can keep an active cat entertained and prevent boredom. 

Protect Your Pet 

Some items can cause harm to your pet. Until you find a way to curb the behavior, you’ll need to protect your pet from, for example, chewing on wires or items that could cause gastrointestinal upset or electrocution.

Doing so could be as simple as keeping items out of reach, or may be a bit more involved, such as wrapping cords in rubber covers. You can also try bitter sprays and other deterrents (like tin foil) to keep your cat away from items he shouldn’t be chewing.

Also note that if the chewing is obsessive, it could be due to anxiety. In that case, you may try calming products such as collars and diffusers. If that doesn’t help, a chat with an animal behaviorist would be the next step.  

How Do I Find a Good Home For My Dog?

When you need to find a good home for your dog, you can use the many available resources to get expert advice, tips, and to be connected to potential adopters. The Rehome website provides many such tools to make the process of finding the perfect home for your dog easier. 

Dos And Don’ts For Rehoming Your Dog 

If you’ve exhausted all other options and find that rehoming your dog is the only choice, take the time to find him a loving home where he’ll be happy for the rest of this life. Keep these tips in mind as you set about the task: 

DON’T Be In A Rush

Your dog deserves the best chance at a safe home, and rushing isn’t conducive to that. Short of some kind of emergency, be willing to take the time needed to make sure he gets not just any home, but the right home.

DON’T Give Him Away

Giving your dog away “free to a good home,” is dangerous in many ways. You never know what people’s intentions are when they are looking for a free dog, but in the worst cases, they could sell the dog to a lab or use him for dog fighting.

DO Charge A Rehoming Fee

Charging a small rehoming fee greatly reduces the dangers of your dog being taken by those with nefarious intentions. Charge a minimum of $50.

DO Screen Potential Adopters

With Rehome, you’ll find advice about how to screen potential adopters, including the type of questions you should ask. People will say anything they think you want to hear. That’s why screening them is so important.

DO Sign A Contract

Once you find your pup the perfect new home, Rehome will help you finalize a contract with the new adopter. The contract outlines things like what should happen to the dog if the new family can no longer keep him, consent of owner transfer, and more. 

Giving up a dog can be heartbreaking. By finding him a good home though, you’ll have peace of mind and he’ll be off to enjoy a happy, healthy life. 

What is the Best Way to Rehome a Great Dane?

The best way to rehome your Great Dane is by vetting the potential adopters to ensure they are the right choice for your beloved dog. You’ll find that there are a few ways to do this and various options for adoption that you can try. Below, we’ll be looking into what you need to know.

What Are You Great Dane’s Needs

You know your dog well, and you know what she needs better than anyone else. You know whether she’ll do well with cats or small children, for example. You know if she has dietary issues or health problems. You know what your dog needs to have a happy and thriving life. Therefore, only you can determine who will be the best new owner for your dog.

Write a list of all of the most important information about your Great Dane, both good and bad, and use that when you are making your rehoming decision. This helps to ensure that she’ll be going to a wonderful new home.

Consider Friends and Relatives

If you have to rehome your Great Dane, talking with friends and family could be a good first step. They may be looking to adopt a dog of their own, or they might know someone who wants a dog. This can be a good way to find a home for your Great Dane with someone you already know, which can provide you with more peace of mind. It’s also easier for you to determine whether they have the capabilities to care for her properly.

Be Sure to Charge a Rehoming Fee

If you will be rehoming your dog with someone you don’t know, you must charge a rehoming fee. These fees aren’t to line the pockets of owners. Instead, owners use the fees to ensure that only the right people with good intentions are adopting their dog. They want to know that the person can afford the dog for starters. They also want to be sure that the person doesn’t have any hidden agenda for getting the dog.

Some people look for free dogs that they can use for fighting rings, or that they can turn around and sell to labs for a profit. Charging the rehoming fee will help to reduce the risk for your Great Dane. The only time you don’t need to charge a fee is when you’re rehoming your dog with someone you already know and trust.

Use an Online Pet Adoption Site

Another good option for rehoming your Great Dane is through a pet adoption site like Rehome. This platform will let you create a profile for your dog that includes photos, videos, and a bio. The bio will let potential adopters know all about your Great Dane. They can then determine whether they might be a good fit. Once adoption applications arrive, you can sort through them and choose the perfect new home for your dog. It’s a simple, safe, and effective method of rehoming.

Does Petco Take Dogs?

Petco does not take dogs—at least not from the rehome_legacy. The dogs you might see for adoption in store are available through a shelter or rescue that is in partnership with the Petco Foundation.

Where Can I Bring a Dog I Need to Rehome?  

Are you considering surrendering your dog? Since Petco cannot take him, you’ll need to search for another option. First, be sure you’ve exhausted all chances of keeping your dog in your home. Whether the issue is behavioral, financial, or simply a lack of time, there are resources available to help you keep your pet. For help with this, check out our Keep Your Pet page. 

If that’s not possible, you’ll have a few options including:

  • Surrendering Your Pet to a Shelter – Surrendering your dog to a shelter is one option—but it comes with risks. Many such organizations are extremely limited on space and it is possible that pets may be put to sleep. While these groups do their best to find a great home for every pet that is surrendered to them, it is not always possible.
  • Finding a Rescue to Take Your Dog – A rescue differs from a shelter in that they are usually privately run and most will keep your dog for as long as it takes to find a good home. The downside is that it can be difficult to find a rescue with the room to take your pet. Still, this is an option worth exploring.
  • Asking Friends or Family to Adopt Your Dog – Maybe someone you’ve spent time with has fallen in love with your dog and would love to give her/him a good home. It never hurts to ask, so post on social media to see if anyone in your circle is interested.
  • Finding a New Home Yourself- Taking the time to find your dog a perfect home is a responsible option that gives your pet a great chance at happiness. It may take some time and effort, but you don’t have to do it alone. Resources, such as Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet.com, make the process easier. 

If you can’t keep your dog, explore all of your options and make the choice that you think will be best for both you and your dog. Knowing he is safe and loved makes it worth the effort.  

How Do You Fix Cat Behavior Problems?

Is your cat aggressive, urinating outside the box, and exhibiting other behaviors of which you’re not a fan? “How do you fix cat behavior problems?” is a question asked by many pet owners. While it may seem impossible to change the conduct of your feline family members, there are often simple options, such as adding an extra litter box, which will make a difference. If not, a professional can usually help you get your misbehaving cat back on track.

 Common Problems. Simple Solutions. 

Some of the most common complaints from cat owners include:

Urinating in Inappropriate Places 

If your cat has started urinating outside the box, try adding an extra litter box. As a general rule, you should have at least one box per cat plus one additional one. Even if you only have one cat, adding a box may help the problem. You should also be sure that you are scooping your cat’s litter box at least once per day and replacing litter monthly. If this behavior started suddenly, it is likely due to a medical condition such as a urinary tract infection or potentially a blockage. See the vet right away. Usually once the infection clears up, the behavior will stop. 

Scratching Furniture 

Cats are going to scratch, so it’s up to you to provide plenty of appropriate options. Put a scratching post in each area of the house where your cat spends time. If they don’t seem interested, sprinkle some catnip, or use catnip spray, to entice them to use the scratching posts rather than your favorite sofa. You can also put soft vinyl nail caps on your cat if they continue to scratch furniture.

Aggressive Behavior 

If the aggressive behavior began suddenly, there is a good chance the cause is a medical issue. When cats are in pain, it often manifests as aggression, so a trip to the vet should be the first order of business. If the vet doesn’t find anything wrong, she may be able to refer you to an animal behaviorist. Introducing a new pet can also bring about sudden aggression. Proper introductions can go a long way in helping the two cats get off on the right paw.

Partying All Night 

If it seems like your cat waits until your REM cycle is fully realized to start embarking on loud antics, you’ll need to find a solution that helps to redirect his playtime to more appropriate hours. Try feeding the biggest meal just before bedtime, as cats like to sleep after a good dinner. Also, make sure they have plenty of toys to keep them active throughout the day, and try to engage in play with them, so they will be ready for a nap at night.

If your cat is behaving badly, a solution can usually be found. If the home remedies don’t work, turn to your vet for guidance. In most cases, you’ll be able to curb the behavior you don’t like. 

Is It Okay To Leave A Dog Alone Overnight?

If your dog is trained and relaxed when left alone, it may be okay to leave your dog alone overnight. It is important that if you are gone for an extended period of time that your dog has the ability to go to the bathroom as needed. Generally speaking, your pet shouldn’t be alone for more than 4-6 hours without a break. It your dog experiences anxiety when left alone or is not trained to spend time alone in the house, it is advisable to hire a pet sitter to stay with your dog.

Tips For Leaving A Dog Overnight With A Sitter 

Spending the night away from your pup for the first time can be a little anxiety-inducing. Try these tips to make both you and your dog feel more comfortable:  

  • Meet with the Dog Sitter in Advance: This is especially important if your dog is nervous around strangers. Have the dog sitter come to your house while you are there to meet your dog. This will make your dog more comfortable when the sitter comes to stay and give you peace of mind that your dog will be in good hands.
  • Tire Him Out: One of the best things you can do before leaving your dog is to exercise him. A nice run or brisk walk before you leave will tucker him out, reduce anxiety and make him more likely to snooze while you’re gone.
  • Provide Fun Toys: Treat puzzles and chew toys will help pass the time and keep him stimulated.    

Leaving your dog overnight may be an option for very well-behaved and relaxed dogs. If this doesn’t sound like your pup, you should have someone come over to spend the night with your dog. This will not only give you peace of mind, but also bring comfort to your pup while you’re away. 

How much does it cost to surrender a Border Collie?

The cost to surrender a border collie will typically be between $50 and $150, but many factors will dictate the cost. The location of the facility, as well as the type of facility, play a role. So does the age of the pet.

Additionally, you may find that some shelters or rescues will charge less per pet for those who have to surrender an entire litter. Some rescues may not charge any fees when a dog has been surrendered. However, these are rare.

The best way to determine how much you’ll have to pay when you surrender your border collie is by getting in touch with the organization. They’ll likely have information on their website that will let you know the fees, along with the steps that you need to take when you’re surrendering your dog.

Why Do You Need to Surrender Your Border Collie?

When you contact a facility and try to set up an appointment to drop off your dog, they’ll likely ask several questions. They want to get a better sense of your dog, and they want to know why you’re surrendering her. Some of the most common reasons that people surrender their pets include financial problems, behavioral issues, an upcoming move, and not being able to spend enough time with their dog.

Often, the facility will have some suggestions and some resources they can provide that could help with these issues. For example, they could put you in touch with local doggy daycare facilities or with trainers. Ultimately, they want you to find ways that you can keep your border collie rather than surrendering them since it is a better option for the pet.

Rehoming Rather than Surrendering

If you’re unable to keep your border collie, consider the benefits of rehoming instead of surrendering him. When you rehome, you’ll not have to pay a surrendering fee for starters. However, it also means that you’ll be giving your dog a better life since you’ll help to find them a new home where they’ll be loved.

Rehoming can be done on your own. However, when you put your dog up for adoption, you need to be very careful about who gets him. To ensure people have an interest in your dog as a pet and not for nefarious purposes, always charge a rehoming fee. This ensures that they have a financial interest in your dog. Be sure to check references and learn as much as you can about the people who will be adopting your dog.

To make things easier, you might want to consider using the Rehome platform from Adopt-a-Pet.com. It’s free for owners. This site lets you create a thorough bio of your border collie, letting the potential adopters know more about him. It also lets you add photos and videos. Those who are interested in adopting will fill out an application, which you can then review to ensure you’re sending your border collie to a wonderful, loving home.

What is the Fastest Way to Rehome a Maltese?

The fastest way to rehome a Maltese is to find someone you know personally who wants to adopt him. However, it’s not the only way– you could also find people online through pet adoption sites that may be interested. It’s important that you understand more about the available options, so you can not only find a fast home for your dog, but also the best home.

Someone You Know

Naturally, the fastest way to rehome is to give the dog to someone you know, such as a relative or a friend. If they’ve been looking to adopt a dog, they could be interested in helping you when you need to give up yours. In these cases, you could rehome in a day or less if needed. Just make sure that you provide all the dog’s belongings and that you’re ready to say goodbye.

Once you give your dog to someone you know, resist the temptation to visit right away. If you’re visiting, this is only going to serve to confuse your dog. They won’t be able to adapt to their new home and new owner. Give it plenty of time before you head over to the house.

Rehoming Online

The Internet has made rehoming much easier, but it could also be dangerous if you’re not careful. Stay away from the classified ad sites when you’re giving up your Maltese. You never know if someone was actively looking for a dog on those sites, or if they just happened upon your ad. They may not have the means or capability to care for him properly.

Instead, you should opt for a pet adoption site like Rehome. This is a peer-to-peer solution that makes connecting with potential adopters easy. You’ll start by completing a profile for your dog with a bio, pictures, and video. The bio should be detailed enough that the potential adopters can learn all the most essential information about your Maltese. This lets them know whether it’s the right dog for them or not.

Those who are looking to adopt will fill out an application, which you can then review. This method gives you plenty of control over who gets to adopt your dog.

Make Sure It’s the Right Fit

Regardless of whether you’re going to be giving your dog to someone you know, or someone you find online, you need to make sure they’re right for your Maltese. No one knows your dog better than you do, and that means you’ll have a better idea of who to choose.

For example, you might have a Maltese that loves children and gets along well with them. However, he might not like cats. You wouldn’t want him to go to a home that has a cat. Maybe he has a special diet and will only eat certain things. Will the person you’re considering be capable of providing what your dog needs?

Even though you may have a relative that is interested in adopting, if it’s not the best choice for the dog, don’t choose them.