Unconditional Rescue Blog

Calculating Dog Years in to Human Years

Everyone and their dog have heard the expression that “one human year equals seven dog years” when calculating the age of your pooch. But what exactly does that mean? And is it true? Well, it seems that it may simply be a tall “tail.”

Although the origins of the seven-year theory is unknown, an inscription dating back to 1268 at Westminster Abbey in London, England, may be one source. According to the inscription, the lifespan of dogs is nine years compared to the 80-year lifespan of a human. While that is not quite the modern seven to one ratio, it may have started the obsession with calculating a dog’s age in human years. Luckily, since 1268, the lifespans for both dogs and humans have exceeded the calculations in Westminster Abbey.⁴

By the 1950s, however, perhaps simply as a marketing strategy, the simple calculation of one human year equals seven dog years (the “seven-year rule”) gained world-wide acceptance and popularity with dog owners, veterinarians, dog food companies, and practically everyone, except maybe dogs, who probably don’t appreciate humans multiplying their age by seven. While this was a simple, convenient way to calculate a dog’s age in human years, veterinarians and scientists agree that it is simply not accurate.

How Old is Your Dog in Human Years?

When trying to correctly calculate a dog’s age in human years, it is important to remember that a dog’s size, breed and general health will also factor in to the equation. Fundamentally, dogs mature at a faster rate than humans (which is based on life expectancy). More specifically, however, when scientists study a dog’s developmental trajectory, they look at how a dog is aging on a molecular level because that is a more accurate way to calculate the aging process of any animal. In other words, all animals grow old and show similar signs of aging such as white hair, wrinkles and other age-related conditions. Researchers, however, have found that dogs age much more rapidly early in life, and then the aging process of dogs slows down significantly.³

Dog Aging Cycle

During their first year, a puppy matures rapidly at a rate significantly faster than a human baby. For example, during a puppy’s first calendar year (equivalent to one human year), the puppy’s growth is similar to a human’s first 12-15 years of growth. So, a one-year-old puppy would be similar in age to a human teenager. After the puppy’s first year of accelerated growth, the difference between “dog years” and “human years” grows less and the rate of aging for dogs slows down. Therefore, a dog’s second calendar year is the equivalent of nine to ten human years, and each subsequent year is about the same as four to five human years.² Also, the rate of aging will depend on breed and size, with small dogs having a longer life expectancy than larger dogs, so a six-year-old small dog under 20 pounds is about the same as 40 human-years old, but a six-year-old dog over 100 pounds would be 49 human-years old.⁴  Interestingly, like dogs, not all humans age at the same rate. Scientists have found that some people simply age at a faster rate than similar aged-peers. While it is not entirely clear why this happens, scientists believe early aging factors include genetics, stress, early trauma and lifestyle.

Is it Important to Calculate a Dog’s Age in to Human Years?

From a medical point of view, the study of the dog aging process is important to provide better medical treatment and overall health care to dogs. Moreover, this also allows researchers to compare species, which helps doctors treat humans, particularly with age-related diseases. Also, for pet owners, thinking of your dog’s age in terms of human years can help you better understand your dog’s life-cycle and health needs. For example, it is important to recognize when your dog becomes a senior dog because then you are more aware of possible health issues related to old age. Most dogs reach senior status between five and ten years old depending on size, breed and general health. So, by thinking of your five-year-old dog being the equivalent of a 65-year-old human may help you make necessary changes to diet, exercise, and pet health care. Of course, all dogs, particularly senior dogs, benefit from a specialized health care plan that ensures your dog receives any necessary health care. Pets Best can help you afford the best care possible for old or young pets with dog insurance plans customized to fit your needs and your budget.*

Human Animal Bond

Another reason people like to calculate a dog’s age as human years is simply to form a stronger connection to our dogs. Obviously, people can form very strong bonds with dogs, and there is a tendency to ascribe human characteristics and emotions to animals, which is called anthropomorphism. Scholars suggest, however, that many of these attributes we project onto our pets are not necessarily the pet’s reality, but simply a way for humans to feel closer to their pets. Interestingly, some researchers believe that humans engaged in anthropomorphic thinking as far back as 40,000 years ago as Paleolithic art represented humans in animal form and vice versa. Also, anthropomorphism may have allowed early humans to be more efficient hunters by predicting animal behavior. This in turn, according to researchers, helped the development of the modern human brain.¹

Ultimately, your dog’s age is simply a number; whether in dog years or human years. Most importantly, spend as much time with your dog, whether in dog time or human time.

Pets Best can help you afford the best care for you dog no matter what age with a dog insurance plan. With Pets Best, dog parents don’t have to decided between providing their dogs with the best care possible and over-extending personal finances.

The one word that pet parents fear hearing the most is cancer. It sets off a wave of dread and fear, realizing that the dog they love and cherish is sick. Dogs can develop cancer at any time in their lives, but they are most susceptible to the disease once they become middle-aged. Cancer is the leading cause of death in senior dogs and dogs over the age of ten. In this article, we’ll look at common dog cancers, the symptoms associated with them, and the available treatments.

Common Types of Cancer in Dogs

Much like cancer in humans, dog cancer symptoms will vary depending on the type of cancer a dog has developed. Cancer can cause a rapid decline in pet health and pets that show any unusual symptoms should be examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Although there are numerous types of dog cancers, there are four types that seem to affect canines the most including:

• Lymphoma
• Skin cancer
• Bone cancer
• Breast cancer

Lymphoma

One of the most common types of cancer is lymphoma, accounting for 10-20% of all cancers found in dogs.² Lymphoma causes swelling of the lymph nodes, which can often be detected in the most noticeable lymph nodes located on the sides of the neck and inside the armpit area.

Melanoma

Another common cancer found in dogs is skin cancer. Malignant (cancerous) tumors tend to grow fast and usually have an irregular shape.⁴ Certain dog breeds are more prone to skin cancer, as well as dogs that have light colored hair and spend a lot of time in the sun. If your dog is lighter in color, ask your veterinarian if he might be at risk for skin cancer.

Osteosarcoma

Bone cancer, also known as Osteosarcoma, accounts for 5% of all cancers found in dogs.¹ This type of cancer occurs in the limbs of dogs 75-85% of the time and is often identified when pets develop a limp.¹ Bone cancer is most common in older giant breed dogs.

Mammary Tumors and Cancer

Breast cancer is another common cancer in dogs. Breast cancer is a unique pet health problem because it is preventable in most cases. Spaying a dog before her first heat cycle can nearly eliminate her risk of getting breast cancer.³ One in four un-spayed dogs over the age of four will develop breast cancer. Dog insurance will help cover the cost of having your dog spayed, which can keep her from developing this devastating disease.

Symptoms and Signs of Cancer in Dogs

When a dog has cancer, he can exhibit one or numerous symptoms associated with the disease. The following is a general list of cancerous symptoms your dog may exhibit:

• A lump or bump, especially one that slowly changes
• Sores that do not heal
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Bleeding or discharge from any opening on the body
• Offensive odor
• Difficulty eating or swallowing
• Weakness or loss of stamina when exercising
• Lameness or stiffness
• Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating

It’s important to note that these symptoms might also be due to other illnesses. Always take your dog for routine trips to the vet in order to screen out any illnesses they may have with these symptoms.

Treatment Options for Dogs with Cancer

Diagnosis of Fatty Lumps

If a lump is discovered, it is important to determine whether or not it is cancerous. A fine needle aspirate of a mass can usually be performed on an outpatient visit and sedation is not necessary. If the lump is simply a fatty mass, a veterinarian will usually leave it in place and monitor it for changes in size and consistency. However, if there is rapid growth or the lump is already big, the veterinarian will probably recommend surgery.

Surgery

Surgery to remove fatty cancerous tissue can often cure the animal of cancer. Even if it is not completely curative, it can decrease the size of the tumor and help the veterinarian give an accurate diagnosis.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy treatment has been shown to significantly extend the lives of dogs with cancer and has been especially effective in treating lymphoma. Animals with chemotherapy treatment generally have fewer side effects and hair loss than humans, and the doses are much smaller. If your vet does not specialize in chemotherapy or surgeries for cancer treatment, there are many animal cancer centers. Ask your vet for a referral.

Holistic Options for Dog Cancer Treatment

Some animal cancer treatment centers also offer holistic services such as acupuncture and herbal doses to reduce pain and improve the pet’s immune system. They may also prescribe pain medications formulated specifically for animals, as well as a modified lifestyle regimen that includes fresh whole, and vitamin-enriched foods and plenty of exercise.

Reducing the Chances of Dog Cancer

There are some things you can do to help keep your dog healthy. Experts generally agree that mixed breed dogs, while not exempt from cancer, live about 10% longer than their purebred counterparts. Adopting a mixed breed dog can be one way of reducing your pet’s chance of developing cancer.

In addition, keeping your pet fit and lean is very important. Obesity has been linked as a predisposition to a whole slew of health problems in dogs, including some cancers. It’s also a good idea to bring your pet in to your veterinarian for annual wellness and routine care exams. Some dog insurance companies, like Pets Best Insurance, will even help to pay for a portion of wellness care if the optional Wellness Plan has been added to the policy.

If you find out that your pet has cancer, don’t get discouraged. New diagnostic methods are helping to detect animal cancer earlier, and the improvement of treatment methods yields better success rates and fewer side effects for your pet. Having pet health insurance will allow you to get your dog diagnosed and treated quickly. Due to the nature of cancer, a delay in getting your pet checked out could be the difference between life and death.

While your dog might be thinking of that next treat or game of fetch, they’re likely not thinking about their appearance – or smell. Keeping up your dog’s hygiene is important from more than an appearance standpoint. It’s key to a healthy pup, serving as an opportunity to identify health issues, ensure they are free of parasites or skin conditions, as well as keeping that doggy odor at bay. Fortunately, grooming your dog yourself can be done at home safely and properly with a little bit of preparation and patience. Here are some tips for grooming your dog at home.

Should I Groom my Dog at Home?

Dog grooming at home has benefits besides being economical. First, your pet will always be more comfortable with family members, particularly if your dog does not like to be groomed. Grooming at home allows for a more flexible grooming schedule. Grooming needs can be broken up over a period of time. Doing too much at once can be overwhelming to humans and dogs. Second, the whole family can get involved and share an in-home spa day where pampering the pooch is the top priority. Of course, you may feel a bit anxious about the task, particularly at first, but there’s no reason that you cannot learn how to groom a dog properly and safely.

Preparing to Groom Your Dog at Home

Since every dog is unique, identify what type of grooming your dog needs and how frequently. Generally speaking, dog grooming includes bathing, brushing your dog’s coat, trimming nails, cleaning the ears and brushing the teeth. Dogs with thick fur or long and curly coats, will need regular trims, which may be best done by a professional groomer. However, there are many grooming tasks you can do safely at home. Once you know what services your “doggy spa” will be offering, make sure to have the proper grooming instruments.

A good rule of thumb is that your dog’s coat should be smooth and shiny. If your dog’s coat is dull or brittle, then you need to groom your dog more frequently.

Brushing your dog’s coat does a few important things:

1. prevents tangles and matting
2. removes loose hair and dead skin
3. distributes the natural oils of the dog’s fur
4. provides an opportunity to look for unusual bumps, injuries and fleas.

Perhaps the best reason to regularly brush your dog is that your dog will enjoy it and you can bond.

Choosing the Right Tools for Grooming Your Dog

In order to properly brush your dog’s coat, you need the proper brush for the length and texture of your dog’s coat. The following is a list of the types of brushes to help you groom your own dog, but you should consult a pet specialist to make sure you have the best brush for your dog:

• Short coats and smooth coats: use a bristle brush which will also massage the skin
• Medium-length coats: use a bristle brush with long bristles or a slicker brush (particularly good to remove knots and tangles)
• Longer coats: use a wire pin brush in addition to a shedding blade, rake or de-shedding brush. Dogs with longer coats definitely need more attention to grooming.

Generally, dogs with curly or wiry fur are particularly susceptible to tangles and matting and require more frequent grooming. Many dogs also have a double coat, which consists of an outer coat and an undercoat. The undercoat is usually dense and more wool-like, leading to the fur becoming matted, so it’s important to groom both the undercoat and outer coat. You can also find grooming tools designed for the undercoat, but for the most part, regular grooming will not only keep the fur free from tangles, but make each future grooming session easier.

For other grooming needs such as trimming nails and bathing, make sure to have sharp nail clippers that are appropriate for your dog’s size. There are different styles of clippers, so find one that you are comfortable with. For bath time, make sure to find the right shampoo for your dog based on various factors such as texture and length of fur, potential allergies or skin irritation, and any need for medicinal shampoo to protect from fleas and ticks.

Additionally, there are many products available to ensure your dog has healthy teeth, eyes and ears. Do not use toothpaste intended for human use as it can contain xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs. Remember to always consult a pet care professional before using any product that could have side effects or cause illness. You should also have a pet first aid kit in the home, and if you are clipping your dog’s nails, make sure it includes some styptic powder which is used to stop bleeding if you cut the dog’s quick accidentally (this happens quite commonly, particularly with dogs with dark nails, and is not usually a cause for concern).

Ready, Set, Brush

Brushing your dog’s coat is like painting a masterpiece. Each dog is different, and each artist (you) may have different brush strokes, but there are some general tips to ensure proper and safe grooming:

• Follow the natural direction: as you brush, follow the natural growth of the fur. In most cases, that means starting at the dog’s skin, and brushing outward
• Gentle brush strokes: use gentle, but firm brush strokes to avoid damaging or tearing the fur. If you feel a snag, stop brushing immediately. Use a coat conditioner and wait a few minutes before trying to untangle the fur with a comb. If the hair is matted, and cannot be untangled, you may have to cut the matted fur, but be extremely careful not to irritate the skin or cause an injury. In case of any emergency, seek medical attention immediately.
• Take your time and be attentive: try not to rush and pay attention to any signs of discomfort. You know your dog better than anyone, so use that knowledge to make sure your dog is comfortable. The more enjoyable the grooming is for your dog, the more likely you will earn a tip.

To Trim or Not to Trim Your Dog’s Fur

Certain dogs will require trims due to the length or texture of hair. With that said, for most dogs, trims are not necessary. Similarly, shaving a dog is not recommended except in rare circumstances. A dog’s fur naturally insolates the dog from cold and heat. So, even though it’s summer, the dog’s coat is very important to maintain body temperature and keep your dog comfortable. So, unless a pet care specialist has given a specific reason why your dog needs to be shaved, you should not shave your dog, no matter how cute a summer cut would look.

Some dogs, however, will require trims. For example, some dogs have hair that does not shed, and therefore will need regular trimming. Generally, trims are best left to professional groomers because there is always a risk of injury.

Spa days are fun, and there’s no reason that you cannot create an in-home spa to pamper your pooch. A shiny and smooth coat is very important to a dog’s health, and regular grooming promotes good health. Consider in-home grooming as a chance to bond and get the entire family involved. Lastly, consider a dog insurance plan from Pets Best to help you afford the best veterinary treatment for your four-legged friend.

Nothing beats the sight of dogs joyfully playing in the snow. But truth be told, not all dogs take to snow like a duck to water. Some give the white stuff the cold shoulder (pun intended). Does your dog gaze out at a fresh pack of snow and look at you as if to say, “no thanks?” If your dog refuses to go pee or potty in the snow this can be a real problem. Fear not, in this article we’ll discuss 3 potential reasons why your dog doesn’t like the snow and offer solutions to resolve them.

Why Does My Dog Hate the Snow?

1. Your Dog is Too Small to Walk in the Snow

Sinking deep into snow can cause apprehension and downright fear in some small dogs. They can feel trapped and unable to escape the snow. Small dogs like Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, or low-to-the-ground dogs like Corgis and Dachshunds lack the leg length, strength, or height to power through snowdrifts like a large breed dog can (such as Labrador retrievers and German Shepherds). They are more apt to feel the snow and ice on their underbellies than long-legged dogs.

Shovel a Cleared Pathway for Your Dog to Walk Through the Snow

Designate a space near your backdoor that is kept snow-free and usher your dog on a leash, if necessary, to that place for them to potty. Be encouraging and try luring them with small healthy treats. By shoveling a path that your dog can easily walk on, it will help increase their comfort level in going potty outside in the winter.

Create an Indoor Pet Grass Potty

Provide an indoor pet potty made of faux grass and an odor-trapping pad. These are useful for small, geriatric, and arthritic dogs, especially during nasty snowstorms. Keep a bottle of a commercial protein enzymatic cleaner handy to properly clean up any urine spills and eliminate urine odors in your home.

2. Your Dog Doesn’t Have a Thick Coat to Keep Them Warm

Some dogs feel the cold more than others because they lack a thick coat to insulate them. Breeds with little to no hair like Chinese Crested and Greyhounds get colder quicker than Siberian Huskies, Samoyeds, and other northern breeds that sport cold-resisting coats. Dogs lacking these thick coats may shiver, hold up a paw, or whine—signaling that it is far too cold for them and they need to come inside. If you ignore these signs, your dog may be at risk for hypothermia or frostbite.

Have Your Dog Wear a Coat

Fit your thin-coated dog in a canine coat or sweater before venturing outdoors. Make sure the coat fits his torso so he can navigate easily. Wearing winter attire will help him retain body heat.

Limit Playtime in the Snow

Shorten the time your dog spends outside to prevent the risk of hypothermia or frostbite from occurring.

Change Your Dog’s Diet During the Winter Season

Consult with your veterinarian about switching your dog to a quality commercial food during the snowy months that is high in fat. This can provide a surprising metabolized source of energy.

3. Your Dog Has Tender Paws

Salt and de-icing chemicals sprinkled on sidewalks, as well as ice shards, can cut and irritate your dog’s paw pads. Some brands of deicers can be toxic if your dog licks their paws and ingests enough of it. In addition, snow and ice can accumulate between your dog’s paws and hinder his ability to walk.

Groom Your Dog’s Paws

Reduce the risk of ice accumulation on your dog’s feet by having a professional dog groomer clip the hair between your dog’s toes. Coats for long-haired dogs should also be trimmed to prevent ice balls or de-icing chemicals from clinging to their coats.

Protect Your Dog’s Paws Before and After Winter Walks

Dab petroleum jelly on your dog’s paw pads before walking where there are icy or salty surfaces. Or purchase non-toxic deicers to use on your sidewalks and concrete patios. Inspect your dog’s paw pads after each walk. If necessary dip his paws in bowls of room-temperature water and then wipe them with a cloth to rid ice or chemicals from in between his toes.

Have Your Dog Wear Booties

You can also have your dog wear special protective booties that provide added traction on icy surfaces and protect his paw pads. Keep in mind that not every dog is a fan of these. You’ll have a greater chance of him accepting the booties if you introduce them indoors first and use praise and treats to sell the new arrangement. Make sure your dog feels comfortable walking in his booties inside before you progress to the outdoors. Build on each small success.

Whether your dog likes the snow or not, winter weather creates wet and slippery conditions that lead to accidents and injuries. It’s one of several good reasons to have dog insurance for your pup. Pets Best offers a wide range of plans and coverage options to help you find a policy that works for your pet and your wallet.

Unlike cats, which are obligate carnivores, dogs are omnivores which means they can eat a mix of meats along with vegetables and fruits. Maybe you’re already feeding your dog some vegetables but wonder if you can try some more? Have you ever considered feeding your dog celery? This vegetable is loaded with health benefits and is extremely low on calories. This makes it perfect for us humans, but is celery good for dogs too? Let’s find out.

Benefits of celery for dogs

Celery is the perfect food if you’re looking for healthy treat options for your dog. This delicious vegetable is packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium, manganese, and folate, all of which are necessary for your dog’s overall wellbeing.

Additionally, this vegetable scores high on fiber, while being low in fat, calories, and cholesterol. If your dog is even slightly overweight or on a weight-loss diet, this is the ideal treat, since celery helps dogs feel full while eating less.

Here are a bunch of other wholesome health benefits of celery for dogs:

• Fresher breath – If you’ve ever fed your dog parsley then you already know how amazing your dog’s breath is after that. Celery brings the same levels of freshness to your dog’s breath
• Reduced blood pressure – Celery has been known to reduce blood pressure. The vegetable contains phthalides, which helps relax the muscles around the arteries, leading to lower blood pressure. Magnesium, calcium, and potassium present in celery also help regulate blood pressure.
• Improved immune system – The high levels of vitamin C present in celery help keep your dog’s immune system in top shape.
• Lowers cholesterol – The phthalides mentioned earlier also help increase the secretion of bile acid which helps lower cholesterol levels
• Increases urine production – Celery is a natural diuretic that helps the body get rid of excess fluids and encourages better kidney health
• Stronger bones – Celery is rich in vitamin K, which helps in making your dog’s bones strong and healthy.
• Hydrates – Since celery is 95% water, it is a great way to hydrate a pup that hasn’t had much water that day.

Dangers of celery for dogs

Dogs are omnivores but they can’t digest fruits and vegetables as well as we do, and that could lead to an upset stomach. Also, the high levels of water that it contains could lead to excessive urination or even diarrhoea. Feed your dog celery, but like all things, do it in moderation and give it as an occasional treat. Do not add it to the dog’s meal as a regular part of the food.

Another danger with celery is that it could pose a choking hazard, especially true for smaller dogs. Cut the vegetable into small, bite-sized pieces that can be eaten and swallowed comfortably without a likelihood of choking.

So, how much celery can my dog eat?

However healthy celery is it cannot be the biggest part of your dog’s diet. As long as you’re feeding your dog good quality food they don’t really need the extra nutrients found in celery. However, when it comes to treats and rewards, why not go in for something that’s natural and rich in nutrients.

Remember, your dog’s diet should mainly be dog food, and treats should only make up 10% of the nutritional intake. Talking of treats, how can you make treats from celery for your dog?

Making celery treats for your dog

Love making things interesting for your pooch? Other than feeding plain raw celery, here are a few quick and easy celery treats to give to your dogs.

• Celery and peanut butter – Dogs love peanut butter and they cannot resist this healthy food. Smear the celery sticks with peanut butter and watch your dog drool in anticipation.
• Celery and cheese – Just make sure your dog isn’t lactose intolerant before you offer him this yummy treat. Slice cheddar cheese and put the strips in the middle of the celery. If you’re concerned about the unhealthy effects of cheese, you can swap it for cottage cheese.
• Celery and meat – Cook up your dog’s favorite meat without using any seasonings, and boil rice without salt. Mix the two and make a fine paste using a low-sodium broth. Dip the celery stick in the paste or add a dollop of it on the stick for a tasty doggy treat.

When puppies aren’t playing or eating, they are sleeping. Sleep is an important part of a puppy’s life because most growing occurs during this time. Also, a well-rested puppy is a healthy puppy. You want to make sure that your puppy is comfortable and has a bed to call his own.

Why does a puppy need their own bed?

Puppy beds are important because it provides a safe place for your pup in which to fall asleep. This way, he can avoid many dangers while napping and can experience uninterrupted sleep. When puppies are woken up prematurely, or during deeper stages of sleep like REM sleep, they can develop health problems and poor growth.

Puppy beds also help to keep pups off of your furniture. It may be cute when your Great Dane puppy sleeps on your couch at just 15 or 20 pounds, but it is much more difficult to break the habit when he is weighing over 100 pounds! Also, having his own bed may help to keep the peace between him and other dogs in your home. If he has his own bed, he may be less likely to “steal” someone else’s bed.

Different types of dog beds

There are many different pet beds from which to choose. Most beds involve a soft cushion for a base and then may be open or enclosed with a long, thin stretch of pillow called a bolster. The cushion could also be firm for more support, especially with large and giant breed puppies. If the dog bed is low-lying and flat, it may be ideal to place inside of a crate.

For puppies that get too hot inside of a dog bed, there are a few options. Some traditional beds now have a gel-cooling layer inside of them so that your pup can stay comfortable. If this doesn’t help, there are hammock-style beds with a mesh fabric that is lifted off the ground by a thin plastic or metal frame. It allows for cool air to rush under the bed while your dog sleeps.

What do you need in a puppy bed?

Puppy beds should be comfortable, ensuring that yours will actually use it! If your puppy insists on trying to sleep in your bed (but you don’t want him to), try keeping the dog bed right next to yours so that he feels close to you. Beds that make them feel safe and secure are also important.

Since puppies have accidents from time to time, the bed should be easy to clean. And since most young puppies are constantly teething, the puppy bed should be made from durable materials that are difficult to destroy!

The Best Dog Beds for Puppies

BuddyRest Romeo Orthopedic Bolster dog bed

Most dogs love bolster beds. A bolster is a cushioned pillow that is positioned around the edges of a dog bed. Most pups like to rest their head on the edge of their dog bed just like people lay their heads on pillows at night. The suede fabric that covers the bed is water-resistant and helps minimize the entrapment of odor-causing bacteria.

This particular bolster bed has bolsters on three of the four edges, and the bed itself is comprised of memory foam. However, rather than using old-school memory foam that traps body heat and causes discomfort, there is a gel-cooling layer in this bed so that your pup doesn’t feel overheated when he sleeps. This is especially important for large breed dogs that run hot.

The only downside to purchasing a bed for a puppy is that yours may outgrow his bed over time. This may be the case if you have a large or giant breed puppy. Keep this in mind when purchasing a dog bed for your canine companion. If possible, you may need to buy a larger size so that he can grow into it. The beds come in medium, large, and extra-large.

Luxe Pup Lynx Round dog bed

The Luxe pup lynx dog bed is unlike other beds in that it is a round disc with no bolster on the sides. This may be ideal for the dog who likes to stretch out and doesn’t like being confined by beds with bolsters. It may also be utilized as a comfy pillow for your pup, and it may even function as a place for your cats to snuggle up with your dog!

While your dog probably doesn’t pay attention to the design or style, the coloring of the bed fits almost any design scheme in your home. It is a sturdy bed with Kevlar double-stitched threads so that it stands up to even the most tenacious of bed chewers. The cushion is very supportive, and the cover comes off for easy cleaning.

The pup lynx dog bed is available in extra small, small, medium, and large sizes. Therefore, if you have a large or giant breed puppy, he may eventually outgrow the bed. He might still use the bed as a fancy pillow, but he will need a bed upgrade at some point.

What happens when you have an overly friendly dog and want to rent your spare room out on Airbnb? Or maybe you don’t have a pet but you wouldn’t mind having one come to stay?

We have put together some tips that will help you communicate with guests about any furry friends they might encounter when they visit you and how turning your Airbnb into a pet-friendly zone can increase your revenue.

Will your pets get along with guests?

Most Airbnb property owners will put their pets in kennels if they are away and want to rent out their home but if you’re a host who wants to rent out part of your space – whether it’s a converted garden shed in the backyard or a room in your inner city apartment – it’s vital you let guests know what to expect. Some people are highly allergic to cats and dogs. Surprising guests with a pet when they arrive is a bad idea and could lead to very negative reviews. Always be honest about the situation and do your best to contain a hyperactive dog or an overly affectionate cat until your guests give them the tick of approval.

Surprising guests with a pet when they arrive is a bad idea and could lead to very negative reviews.CLICK TO TWEET

In some cases, Airbnb owners will feel comfortable asking guests to feed and take care of their pets during their stay, particularly if the accommodation is free-standing and the host is not on-site. Once again, always clearly communicate this – not just in the property description but also in emails to guests before they arrive.

Adopting a cat on your vacation

Remember that many people love sharing a space with a pet. Imagine you have had to leave your beloved kitty cat behind and you have the chance to rent an apartment with a friendly feline to keep you company during your stay? There’s a good likelihood that you’ll want to stay in that particular apartment and that you won’t mind topping up the food bowl for the kitty during your holiday. Pets can be an advantage depending on your target audience and how you word your description.

Exotic pets

If you have less common pets, like snakes, ferrets, hamsters, lizards or parrots – you might consider making them the star of the show. Some Airbnb hosts attract guests by highlighting their pets as part of the listing. For example: ‘Inner city apartment with three albino pythons’ or ‘Country cottage with talkative parrot’. If you do this, it’s always worth stating that these animals can be locked away, out of sight, for those guests who are not keen on interacting.

It goes without saying that if you have an aggressive pet – whether it’s a dog that barks loudly at strangers or dangerous reptiles – you should strongly consider removing them from the property when you rent it out or making sure that you don’t target guests with young children.

How can pets increase your revenue?

More and more travellers, particularly in Europe where car travel between countries is easy and common, are choosing to take vacations with their pets. It’s a lucrative market that Airbnb’s can tap into if they are willing.

Not only will it mean that your listing will appeal to a wider audience of travellers but you will also be able to charge extra as people who travel with dogs are more likely to pay additional fees. If you already have pets, it goes without saying that they must be the kind of animals that are ‘cool’ with sharing their space. If not, consider putting them in a kennel.

Also consider:

• Checking the rules of the building to make sure pets are allowed if you are an apartment owner
• Adding a pet fee or increasing your daily rate to accommodate pets
• Providing dog/cat treats, feeding bowls, some old towels, plastic bags
• Asking guests to place throw rugs on couches and any fabric covered furniture to avoid it becoming coated in animal hair/smell
• Replacing carpet with tiles or floorboards – or covering carpets with rugs
• Installing dog/cat doors
• Ensuring outdoors spaces are secure and that pets can’t escape.

Hosts should update their House Rules with a section about pets that covers the basics of what is expected when it comes to cleaning up after their animals and any fees that might be charged if a pet destroys something.

Travelling with pets

How can travellers find out if an Airbnb will accept their pet? The first place to look is the Amenities section of the listing description. Hosts who are open to having animals stay will select Pets Allowed and this will be displayed in the amenities list. But in general it’s expected that guests with pets should contact a host before making the booking to ensure the space is appropriate.

If you are a host with a pet – make sure you select Pet Owner in the amenities section so potential guests are aware of the situation. And, as we’ve already said, make mention of your pet in your property description to keep things crystal clear.

Pet-proof your Airbnb

If you’d like help in tapping into the pet-friendly Airbnb market and making sure your house is an appropriate space for animals to stay – be sure to drop GuestReady a line. We have a team of experts who can assist with pet-proofing your home or recommending the best approach to take when listing information about your own pets to avoid any issues with guests.