Woman's World

A Hosta Nearly Killed a Chihuahua. His Owner Is On a Mission to Ensure No Other Pet Suffers the Same Fate

Ryan Brennan — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:00:16 +0000

A Chihuahua named Cooper nearly died after eating a hosta in his garden. His owner is now pushing for change so other pet parents don’t face the same nightmare.

Cooper was about 18 months old when the incident happened in May. His owner, 25-year-old Caitlin Roberts of Tamworth, Staffordshire, told the BBC that the dog had gotten into a hosta plant, one of the most common and popular shade plants found in gardens across the UK.

Most people wouldn’t think twice about having hostas in their yard. But hostas, also known as plantain lilies or funkia, are among many plants toxic to dogs. They contain a chemical called saponins, which the ASPCA lists as toxic to both cats and dogs.

Saponins cause burning in the mouth, salivation, vomiting, diarrhea and cough, according to a 2023 scientific review published in the journal Toxins. Fatigue and difficulty breathing may also occur.

The toxins didn’t show up in Cooper’s blood tests, which made it difficult for veterinarians to determine what was wrong. According to Roberts, the plant toxins temporarily stopped Cooper’s intestines from working normally. Undigested food accumulated and created a blockage.

Cooper spent several days in pain before vets identified the cause. He eventually needed emergency surgery on his digestive system.

The ordeal has cost the family more than £6,000 (about $8,000) in veterinary bills, medicine and specially formulated food. Cooper is now recovering at home but will deal with lasting health complications and require a specially adapted diet for life.

“I think we should be a bit more aware of what we have in the garden and what we have in the kitchen for our pets,” Gabriel Wax, the veterinarian who treated Cooper, told the BBC.

The push for warning labels on toxic plants for dogs

Cooper’s story highlights a broader issue: there are no requirements for retailers to warn buyers about plants hazardous to dogs or cats. Roberts wants to change that.

She started a Change.org petition on May 26 asking the UK government to require toxicity warnings on plants sold by shops and garden centers. The petition calls for labels that clearly state whether a plant is poisonous to dogs or cats. She also wants labels to include the telephone number for Animal PoisonLine.

More than 580 people have signed the petition as of July 14.

Gurdip Singh, CEO of labelling software company Kallik, called the idea “fabulous” in an interview with the BBC. He said the change is feasible and that companies already have systems in place to work with strict labelling regulations.

Not everyone is as optimistic. In an online Q&A, personal injury attorney Stephen Hoffman was asked why there aren’t labels warning consumers about plants hazardous to dogs and cats. His response was blunt: “Why not? Probably because cat owners (I’m one), like dog owners, are expected to know what things are toxic to their pets. And also because the government doesn’t require the label.”

Whether or not labelling laws change, the responsibility still falls on pet owners to make their homes and gardens safe. Keeping a dog-friendly plants list on hand is a good starting point. Knowing which species to avoid is just as important.

The ASPCA’s list of plants poisonous to dogs includes 416 entries and covers cats as well. If you’re unsure whether something in your yard or home could be harmful, check the list before letting your pet near it.

Cooper’s case is a reminder that toxic plants for dogs aren’t rare or exotic. They’re in gardens and homes everywhere. A quick search before your next trip to the garden center could save a life. You can learn more about plants that are toxic to pets here.

More Than 28,000 Pets Were Exposed to Toxic Plants Last Year. Here’s What It Means for Summer Safety

Ryan Brennan — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 13:01:08 +0000

If you have a garden or a few houseplants on the shelf, you’ve probably wondered whether any of them could hurt your dog or cat. The short answer is yes. Hundreds of common plants pose real risks to pets, and most owners don’t realize which ones are dangerous until something goes wrong.

Whether you’re planting a new flower bed, bringing home a bouquet or just curious about the pothos in your living room, here’s what every pet owner should know about toxic plants and how to keep their animals safe this season.

How common are toxic plant exposures in pets?

The numbers may surprise you. In 2025, ASPCA Poison Control received calls about more than 376,000 items pets were exposed to. Toxic plants made up 7.5% of those cases, totaling roughly 28,000 exposures. Dogs accounted for more than 12,900 of those on their own.

Plants and fungi came in as the sixth most reported category, trailing OTC medications, food and drink, human prescription medications, chocolate and veterinary products.

The risk increases in warmer months. Lance Wheeler, an emergency and critical care specialist at Texas A&M University Small Animal Teaching Hospital, told Campus Insights Media that pets spend more time outside during spring and summer where they encounter plants, fertilizers, pesticides and other environmental hazards.

“Dogs and cats, specifically, are going to be at a higher risk of these intoxications compared to people because they walk directly on treated surfaces and then groom themselves, which can lead to ingestion of harmful substances,” Wheeler added.

Garden plants that are toxic to dogs and cats

Many of the most popular landscaping plants are also some of the most harmful. Azaleas were the number one canine toxic plants exposure reported in 2025 and are equally dangerous for cats. Ingestion can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, weakness and cardiac failure.

Other outdoor plants toxic to dogs and cats include sago palms, foxgloves, bluebells, crocuses, yew, hydrangea and oleanders.

Seasonal and holiday plants bring additional risk. Poinsettias, lilies, tulips and daffodils are commonly gifted or displayed during holidays, putting pets in close contact with plants that are toxic.

“More common exposures like ivy, aloe and spring bulbs (tulips and daffodils) typically cause mouth and gastrointestinal irritation,” said Susanne Heartsill, DVM, DABVP, U.S. Director at Ceva Animal Health, in an interview with USA Today. She added that bulb ingestion can be more serious.

Houseplants that are toxic plants for cats and dogs

Indoor plants are just as much of a concern as outdoor ones. A large category of common houseplants contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which are tiny needle-like structures found in the leaves and stems.

When a pet chews on one of these plants, the crystals cause immediate irritation to the mouth, along with pain, drooling, vomiting and loss of appetite. In rare cases, consuming large amounts can lead to throat swelling and difficulty breathing.

Some of the most common feline toxic plants and toxic plants for dogs in this category include pothos, peace lilies, philodendrons, ZZ plants, dumb cane, calla lilies, Chinese evergreen, elephant ear, Swiss cheese plant and flamingo plant.

Other houseplants to be aware of include lily of the valley, cyclamen, jade plant, snake plant, kalanchoe, bird of paradise and begonia.

What to do if your pet eats a toxic plant

Acting fast can make a real difference. Here’s what to do if you suspect your pet has eaten something harmful:

Seek veterinary care immediately if your pet shows signs of vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness or collapse.
Head straight to a veterinary hospital if your pet is having trouble swallowing or breathing.
Bring the plant or flower with you to help with identification.
Remove the plant from your pet’s reach to prevent further exposure.
Contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661. Both are available 24/7.

Don’t assume your pet is fine just because they look normal. Wheeler cautioned that symptoms can take hours or even days to appear, and it’s always best to err on the side of caution and contact a veterinarian as early as possible.

Preventing plants toxic to cats and dogs from causing harm

Prevention starts with knowing what’s around your home. The ASPCA maintains a searchable database of plants toxic to cats (428 species) and plants toxic to dogs (416 species). Once you know what to look for, a few simple steps can go a long way.

Remove toxic plants from your home and yard when possible. If removal isn’t an option, use barriers, playpens or elevated stands to keep pets away.
Supervise your animals outdoors, especially in unfamiliar areas. When walking your dog, keep them from sniffing or chewing plants along trails and sidewalks.
Swap out toxic plants for pet-safe alternatives like spider plants, Boston ferns, orchids and areca palms.
Stay alert during holidays when seasonal plants like poinsettias, lilies and tulips are commonly gifted or displayed.

The encouraging news is that overall toxic plant exposures continue to decline, showing that awareness is making a difference. But a single curious nibble is all it takes to turn into something serious. Staying informed is the simplest thing you can do to protect your pets.

The video “Toxins in the home and yard that can affect pets,” featuring Lance Wheeler, an emergency and critical care specialist at Texas A&M University Small Animal Teaching Hospital, was first published on Campus Insights Media.

At Least 47 Dogs Have Died From Heatstroke in 2026. Here’s How to Keep Yours Safe This Summer

Ryan Brennan — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 18:45:20 +0000

Summer changes everything about how you care for your dog. The walks get shorter, the water bowl empties faster and the risks you never thought about start to matter.

Heatstroke in dogs is one of those risks, and it’s far more common than most owners expect. It doesn’t just happen in parked cars. It happens on routine walks, in backyards without enough shade and on days that barely feel warm to you.

Knowing what to watch for and how to respond can be the difference between a scare and something much worse. Mobile dog grooming services can also help you keep up with preventive care without exposing your dog to the heat.

How common is heatstroke in dogs?

Far more common than most people think. A large-scale study published in Scientific Reports reviewed records from more than 900,000 dogs and found that roughly 1 in 7 dogs treated for heat-related illness didn’t survive.

The numbers continue to climb. In 2025, 151 animals suffered heat-related deaths and 365 were rescued, according to PETA. In 2026, there have already been 55 reported deaths (including 47 dogs and five cats) and 301 rescues despite the summer just getting started.

“I think people underestimate how intense the sun and the humidity, especially, can be,” Dr. Kailyn Thomas, veterinarian at Winter Park Veterinary Hospital, told News4Jax.

What temperature is too hot for dogs?

Lower than you might assume. Researchers at UNSW Sydney analyzed 20 years of veterinary data and found that a dog’s risk of death rises about 1% for every degree above 77°F. On days above 90°F, that risk spikes by nearly 10%.

That matters more than most owners realize, especially since the Scientific Reports study also found that dogs were showing up at the vet with heatstroke as early as spring, on days most owners wouldn’t consider risky.

What are the signs of heatstroke in dogs?

According to PetSafe, early warning signs include heavy or rapid panting, excessive thirst, seeking out shade, lagging behind on walks and gums that look darker or brighter pink than usual.

As heatstroke progresses, symptoms become more serious. Watch for thick ropey drool, bright red gums and tongue, weakness or wobbling, a rapid heart rate and vomiting or diarrhea.

The situation becomes an emergency if your dog collapses, develops pale or purple gums, loses consciousness or stops responding to their name.

What should I do if my dog overheats?

Move them to a shaded or air-conditioned area immediately. Offer cool (not cold) water and place damp towels on their belly and paw pads to help bring their body temperature down gradually.

If symptoms escalate to vomiting, wobbling or bright red gums, get to a veterinarian as fast as possible. Do not try to force water into a dog that is struggling to stand or stay conscious. Knowing what to do if your dog overheats matters because heatstroke can go from manageable to life-threatening in minutes.

Should I shave my dog in the summer?

Not if they have a double coat. Breeds like huskies, golden retrievers, German shepherds and Labradors have a thick undercoat that acts as natural insulation, trapping a layer of cool air against the skin. Shaving removes that barrier and can actually make them hotter.

What helps instead is regular brushing. “If this hair is not physically removed via brushing, combing, or blowing out, the coat may not be serving its true purpose of keeping the pet cool,” says Dr. Ashley Navarrette, clinical assistant professor at Texas A&M.

If you’re unsure how much to trim, it’s best to leave that decision to a professional groomer to avoid improper cuts and potential injury.

What dog grooming tips help prevent heatstroke?

Beyond regular brushing, a few targeted grooming habits make a real difference in the summer.

Trim the fur around and between your dog’s paw pads. That’s where their sweat glands are and excess fur slows the evaporation that helps them cool down.

Check ears and skin regularly, especially after swimming or water play. Moisture trapped against the skin creates ideal conditions for infections and hot spots.

A monthly cool bath can also help keep your dog clean and free of summer pests.

Will my dog stop exercising when they get too hot?

No. Dogs are eager to please and will push past their limits to keep up with you. “A dog running with its owner in heat is not going to self-limit itself. It’s going to want to please the owner. So, you need to watch that,” Steven Marks, Founding Dean of Clemson University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, told Campus Insights Media. It’s on you to cut the activity short before they overheat.

How do I know if the pavement is too hot for my dog?

Press your hand to the ground before heading out. If it feels warm to you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Asphalt absorbs heat and can burn paw pads at temperatures that feel mild in the air.

Can I leave my dog in the car with the AC on?

No. Even with the AC running, there’s no guarantee it will keep the interior cool enough. A mechanical failure or an accidental shutoff can turn a parked car deadly in minutes. Never leave your dog unattended in a vehicle.

What are the most important summer safety tips for dogs?

Make sure your dog always has access to shade and fresh water. If they aren’t drinking enough, try mixing water into their dry food to create a slurry or adding canned food for extra moisture. If your dog goes swimming, use a life preserver unless you’re confident they’re a strong swimmer and keep them close to shore.

Keeping up with grooming is one of the easiest ways to protect your dog all summer, and mobile dog grooming makes it simple to stay consistent without the hassle of getting out in the heat yourself.

The video “How to keep pets safe during summer heat,” featuring Steven Marks, the Founding Dean of Clemson University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, was first published on Campus Insights Media.

The No. 1 Reason I’ve Never Owned a Dog—and the Guilt I’m Slowly Learning to Let Go of at 32

Ryan Brennan — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 09:34:25 +0000

I’ve wanted a dog for as long as I can remember. And for just as long, I’ve had a reason not to get one.

It started simply enough. When I moved out on my own in 2014 at 20 years old, I told myself I wouldn’t get a dog until I owned a home. It felt responsible—mature, even. Dogs need space, I reasoned. They need a backyard with dog-friendly features. They need stability. And a twenty-something bouncing between apartments with roommates wasn’t in a position to offer any of that.

So I got a cat instead. 11 years later, I still have him, and I love being a pet owner. He’s been through every chapter of my adult life with me—the apartments, the roommates, the first house, the downsize back to an apartment. He’s proof that I can care for another living thing. But he also became a convenient excuse. I already have a pet, I’d tell myself. The dog can wait.

But how long am I willing to wait? Dogs are, after all, the most popular pet in America. According to the American Pet Products Association, 65.1 million U.S. households own a dog. Millennials—my generation—make up the largest share of pet owners at 33%.

And a study by the American Humane Association found that the person most likely to consider getting a dog is someone who’s single, younger, and living in the Western United States. I check every single one of those boxes. I’m 32, single and living in Las Vegas.

On paper, I’m the textbook candidate for dog ownership. In practice, I’ve spent over a decade convincing myself otherwise.

The conditions that kept changing

In 2019, I moved into my first house. It should have been the green light I’d been waiting for. I finally had a home. Six months later, I started working from home full-time—something I still do today—which meant I had more time and flexibility than ever to care for a dog.

And then COVID-19 arrived in early 2020 and robbed many of us, myself included, of a social life. Suddenly I was home all day, every day, with nothing but time. A Forbes Advisor survey found that 78% of pet owners they surveyed acquired their pets during the pandemic. Millions of people saw the same window I did—stuck at home, lonely, craving companionship—and they actually jumped through it. I didn’t. Why?

Because the house didn’t have a backyard. And just like that, I had a new condition. I’ll get a dog when I have a home with a backyard. The goalposts moved, and I let them.

If I’m being honest, the backyard thing was less about the dog’s quality of life and more about my own image of what dog ownership was supposed to look like. A dog in a yard. That was the picture in my head, and anything short of it felt incomplete.

Then, earlier this year, I moved back into an apartment. The house was too big for one person, and I wanted to downsize. It was the right call for my life, but it also meant I was further from that picture than ever. No home. No yard. No dog. And now, at 32, I have no idea when (or if) I’ll own a home again, let alone one with a backyard.

What owning a dog would mean for me

The thing about waiting for the right time is that you start to lose sight of why you wanted it in the first place. So lately I’ve been thinking less about yards and more about what a dog would actually bring to my life.

The science is pretty clear. According to the American Kennel Club, research shows that owning a dog can reduce loneliness, lower stress and improve cardiovascular health.

A study from Washington State University found that just 10 minutes of petting a dog can significantly lower cortisol levels. Dog owners are nearly four times more likely to meet daily physical activity guidelines than non-dog owners, according to a 2019 study published in Scientific Reports.

And for someone like me—single, working from home, not looking to be in a relationship or get married—the companionship factor alone is enormous. One national survey found that 85% of respondents believe interacting with pets reduces feelings of loneliness.

I have flexibility. I have time. I have love to give. The only thing I don’t have is a backyard. And I’m starting to realize that might not matter as much as I thought.

The backyard guilt I’m learning to let go of

I’d be lying if I said the backyard thing doesn’t still get to me. I’ve seen the TikTok videos—the ones where dogs experience a backyard for the first time after years of apartment living, tearing across the grass in pure, uncontainable joy. Those videos are beautiful, and they make me feel a pang of guilt for even considering raising a dog without that kind of space.

But here’s what I’ve started telling myself: that joy isn’t about the yard. It’s about freedom, movement and the bond those dogs have with the people who gave them a good life before the yard ever came along. Those dogs were loved in apartments. They were walked, played with, taken to parks. The yard was a bonus, not the baseline.

I live in Las Vegas. There are parks everywhere. There are dog parks. There are hiking trails just 20 minutes outside the city. A dog’s quality of life isn’t determined by square footage—it’s determined by what you do with the time you have together. And time is something I have a lot of.

Owning a dog doesn’t have to look perfect

There’s a quote I keep coming back to, even if I can’t attribute it to anyone specific: Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good. I’ve spent 11 years of independent living setting conditions for dog ownership, and every time I meet one condition, I invent another.

First it was owning a home. Then it was having a backyard. What would be next? A certain income? A partner? A fence? At some point, the conditions stop being practical and start being a way to avoid the vulnerability of just doing the thing.

The older I get, the more I feel it. The loneliness doesn’t get louder, but it gets heavier. And I’m not at peace with coming home to silence every day when I know there’s a companion out there who would be just as happy to see me as I would be to see them.

Where do I go from here?

I haven’t gotten a dog yet. I’m not writing this from the floor of a PetSmart with a leash in one hand and a bag of kibble in the other. But something has shifted. The question in my head is no longer when will I be ready? It’s what am I waiting for?

Life doesn’t have to be perfect to take the next step. There won’t ever be a perfect time—a perfect home, a perfect yard, a perfect set of circumstances all aligned just so. If I’ve learned anything from 11 years of saying no, it’s that waiting for perfect is just another way of saying not yet. And I’m running out of reasons to keep saying it.

Maybe the best time to get a dog was five years ago. But the second-best time? That might just be now. And hey — if a backyard ever enters the picture, I already know exactly what I’d build (you can learn more about that here).

84% of Dogs Have Fear and Anxiety. Research Says a Yard Built for Sniffing, Not Size, May Help Calm Them

Ryan Brennan — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:38:20 +0000

Fear and anxiety are far more common in dogs than most owners think. And the fix may have less to do with space or exercise, and more to do with something far simpler: giving your dog more chances to use its nose.

And, in many cases, building a dog-friendly backyard is the best place to start.

Research published in Veterinary Research Communications analyzed behavioral data from more than 43,000 dogs enrolled in the Dog Aging Project. The findings were striking. More than 84 percent of dogs showed at least mild signs of fear and anxiety in everyday situations, excluding learned fears tied to grooming activities like nail trimming and bathing.

The most common triggers? Fear of strange people, unfamiliar dogs and unfamiliar situations like unexpected noises or objects on the sidewalk.

Dr. Bonnie Beaver, a professor of behavior in the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences at Texas A&M, led the analysis. She told Campus Insights Media that dogs and anxiety often go hand in hand when dogs live relatively isolated lives.

“And that could be even in a city, a dog that stays in an apartment and uses a pee pad instead of going out for a walk,” Beaver said.

She also warned that untreated anxiety in dogs tends to escalate into phobias, which are far harder to address.

“Long-term anxiety is affecting dogs just as it affects people,” she said. “The world is a very scary place. Those dogs, just as people, need medications to help reduce that anxiety and return them to normal.”

But medication isn’t the only intervention worth exploring.

How scent work can help dog anxiety

A growing body of research suggests that scent training for dogs is one of the most effective and accessible forms of enrichment available.

A 2025 study published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science surveyed 566 professional dog trainers worldwide. More than 90 percent agreed or strongly agreed that scent work is enjoyable for dogs, tires them out and builds confidence in shy dogs. More than half agreed it can reduce general fearfulness, destructive behavior, overexcitement and reactivity.

An earlier 2019 study in the same journal went further. It tested what happened when pet dogs practiced nosework every day for two weeks. The dogs who sniffed became measurably more optimistic. They were quicker to approach new and uncertain situations. Dogs who practiced heel walking instead showed no change.

“So providing opportunities for dogs to sniff more of the environment and put their nose to use may be the ultimate way to enrich their wellbeing, no matter their age, breed, or size,” wrote Jade Fountain, the lead author of the 2025 study, in an essay published on The Conversation.

Fountain outlines several practical ways to bring scent enrichment into your dog’s routine. These include scatter feeding across a yard or floor, snuffle mats and puzzle feeders, and sniff-based walks (sometimes called sniffaris) where your dog explores at its own pace without pressure from other dogs or people.

For owners with outdoor space, she also recommends a dog sensory garden. This is a dedicated area planted with dog-safe herbs, grasses and textured ground cover that gives your dog a rich and varied olfactory landscape to explore.

Even occasional “sniffaris” around the neighborhood can make a meaningful difference.

Dog anxiety is widespread. But treating it doesn’t always require a bigger yard or a more intense exercise routine. Sometimes the simplest thing you can do is let your dog stop and smell.

For more backyard ideas for dogs, check out this guide to building the perfect dog-friendly backyard.

Give Your Dog a Yard They’ll Actually Use: Digging Pits, Cool-Off Spots, Shade and Sniff Trails

Ryan Brennan — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 18:43:10 +0000

Getting a yard for your dog feels like handing them the keys to a whole new world, and for a while just having the space is enough. Then you start noticing things. Your dog wears a track along the fence line. They dig in the flower bed the moment your back is turned. They flop in the one patch of shade and refuse to move.

None of that is bad behavior. It is your dog telling you exactly what the yard is missing. Building great backyard ideas for dogs is really just a matter of answering those hints, and the questions below are the ones that come up most once you start.

What are the best backyard ideas for dogs?

The features that actually get used are the ones tied to a real canine drive: somewhere to dig, room to run, water to cool off in, shade, a comfortable bed, a lookout, a garden to sniff through and a spot to rinse off. You do not need all of them on day one. Start with whatever fits your dog’s habits and your budget, then add over time. The best backyard ideas for dogs solve a behavior rather than just filling space.

How do I stop my dog from digging up the whole yard?

Give the digging a home. Dogs dig because they enjoy it, according to UC Davis, and also when they are bored or hunting for cooler ground. A dog digging pit channels the habit into one approved patch. Build a low sandbox or scoop out a shallow area, fill it with soft play sand or topsoil, then bury a few toys so your dog learns this is where the good stuff hides.

Is a dog obstacle course worth building?

For most dogs, yes. Roughly 6 in 10 dogs in the US are overweight or obese, reports the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, and founder Dr. Ernie Ward calls that “not just a cosmetic issue” but a driver of diabetes, joint disease and more. A dog obstacle course makes exercise feel like play. Piece one together from jump bars, a tunnel, weave poles and a low beam, keep the heights modest at first and reward every clear round.

Do dogs really need a way to cool off in the yard?

More than most people expect. A Royal Veterinary College study pinned 74% of heat-related illness in dogs on physical exertion, with warm surroundings behind about 13% and hot cars a surprisingly low 5%. In other words a dog overheats from tearing around, not just from lying in the sun, so on-site cooling counts. A dog pool, which can be nothing fancier than a kiddie pool from a hose, is the fastest fix. A dog splash pad or a running sprinkler does the same job and adds a game.

How much shade does a dog need outside?

Enough that they can always get out of direct sun, since shade is how a dog cools once panting stops keeping up. A leafy tree or a covered patio might already handle it. Where natural cover is thin, a dog shade canopy or an insulated dog house creates a dedicated cool spot. Keep a water bowl in the shade so drinking and cooling happen in the same place.

How hot or cold is too much for a dog outside?

There is an easy gut check. Dr. Antje Joslin, a veterinarian for Dogtopia, told NBC News, “A general rule is that if you’re comfortable outside, your dog probably will be as well.” She added that many dogs do great outside between 55 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, but anything below 40 degrees or above 90 degrees should be limited to less than 15 minutes at a time. A raised, weatherproof outdoor dog bed in the shade gives them a cooler place to settle than bare ground.

What is a dog sensory garden?

It is a planted area your dog explores by nose, and it does real work for nervous dogs. The ASPCA keeps a dog sensory garden at its Behavioral Rehabilitation Center. “Movement, new, safe experiences and sniffing can increase confidence and reduce stress in dogs,” says behavior rehabilitation specialist Jennifer White. “A sensory garden gives dogs the opportunity to choose their own adventure.” Plant a winding trail of dog-safe, aromatic picks like lavender, rosemary, chamomile and wheatgrass, and double-check every plant is non-toxic first.

What is a dog fence window?

It is a clear acrylic dome or porthole set into your fence at your dog’s eye level so they can watch the world outside. Dogs are wired to keep tabs on their territory, and a dog fence window scratches that itch without building a raised deck or platform. Letting them see out also tends to settle the frantic fence-line pacing that kicks in when a dog can only hear what is happening beyond the fence.

Do I need a dog wash station?

If your dog swims, digs or rolls in things, it saves a lot of grief. A dog wash station keeps the mud out of your bathroom. The basic version is a hose, a spray nozzle and somewhere to clip the leash. A fuller dog washing station adds a raised basin, warm-water plumbing and a handheld sprayer, along with a hook for towels and a shelf for shampoo.

What plants are toxic to dogs?

Quite a few popular landscaping choices are. Sago palm, oleander, foxglove, azaleas and lily of the valley all rank among the plants toxic to dogs. Run any candidate past the ASPCA toxic plant list before you buy, and swap in dog-safe alternatives for the risky ones.

Is cocoa mulch safe for dogs?

No. Cocoa mulch is made from cocoa bean shells and carries theobromine, the same compound that makes chocolate dangerous to dogs, and plenty of dogs will happily eat it. Reach for cedar or untreated bark instead. It also pays to go easy on lawn chemicals, since dogs sniff and walk right where fertilizers and weed killers settle. If you do treat the yard, choose pet-safe products and wait until everything is fully dry.

How do I keep ticks out of my yard?

Make the space unwelcoming to them. Good tick prevention for dogs starts with mowing often and trimming the edges, because ticks lie in wait in tall grass and brush. Clear the leaf litter and brush piles that trap the moisture they rely on. For an added layer of tick control for dogs, lay a strip of gravel or wood chips between the lawn and any wooded border. Check your dog after outdoor time too, looking closely at the ears, armpits and between the toes.

Why are ticks on dogs such a big deal?

Because of Lyme disease. Dr. Jenny Hyde, a Texas A&M associate professor who has studied it for about 25 years, told Campus Insights Media that it is the most common tick-borne disease in the United States. A tick generally has to stay attached for around two days before it passes on the bacteria, so pulling one off quickly makes a real difference. There is no human vaccine yet, but there is one for dogs, so it is worth asking your vet.

Giant Sea Lion Takes Over Pier 39: Why Is 2,000-Pound Chonkers Drawing Huge Crowds?

Samantha Agate — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 13:31:46 +0000

A giant sea lion has turned a single floating dock at San Francisco’s Pier 39 into one of the most-watched marine mammal spectacles of the year.

The viral marine mammal at Pier 39 is Chonkers, a roughly 2,000-pound Steller sea lion who has been hauling out on the floating docks and dwarfing the smaller California sea lions around him. He has become a social media sensation, with crowds of tourists gathering daily to watch him bark, lounge and hold court at the front of the platforms.

According to The Wall Street Journal, Chonkers was first spotted at Pier 39 in March. Reddit users started posting videos of him that same month, showing him perched at the front of one of the wooden floats while the considerably smaller sea lions kept their distance.

“I wonder what the little guys were thinking. They’re all so cute though,” one Reddit commenter wrote. “That’s one big water dog,” said another.

Chonkers has become a TikTok sensation

A TikTok video posted this week showed Chonkers — also affectionately nicknamed Chonkers — barking with a crowd of onlookers gathered around him. The comments quickly piled up.

“An absolute unit,” one viewer wrote. “Everybody loves a chonker!” said another. A third person added, “Saw him a few days ago, people were calling him the king 😂.” A fourth commenter chimed in: “He’s doing a great job 🥰.”

Pier 39’s floating docks have long been a popular haul-out spot for marine mammals, hosting as many as 2,000 sea lions at a time depending on the season. But Chonkers stands out — quite literally — because he is roughly three times the size of the California sea lions that typically inhabit San Francisco Bay. That sheer size difference is exactly why he is drawing a crowd, and why locals and tourists keep posting fresh photos and videos of the viral pinniped to TikTok, Reddit and Instagram.

How big is a Steller sea lion compared to a California sea lion?

An adult male Steller sea lion like Chonkers can weigh up to 2,500 pounds and stretch up to 11 feet long, according to NOAA Fisheries — making the species roughly one and a half to three times heavier than the California sea lions most San Francisco Bay visitors are used to seeing.

Adult male Stellers show the biggest size gap. They can weigh well over twice as much as adult male California sea lions and look noticeably longer and bulkier. Steller sea lions also have thicker necks and more massive bodies, giving them what’s often described as a “bear-like” appearance compared with the sleeker, more streamlined California sea lion.

That difference is on full display at Pier 39, where Chonkers towers over his neighbors on the docks. Photos and videos circulating on Reddit and TikTok show the roughly 2,000-pound Steller commanding an entire float by himself while smaller sea lions cluster on adjacent platforms, keeping a respectful distance.

Stellers are well suited to spending long periods in the open ocean. Their diving ability increases with age, with some dives recorded at depths of around 1,400 feet. When they come ashore, they rely on calm, undisturbed areas to rest and shed their fur, and these locations also function as centers for social interaction, breeding, birthing, and rearing pups. They are highly social, often forming tightly packed groups on land, while at sea they may move alone, in small groups, or in larger clusters known as rafts near areas rich in food.

They sometimes lift their flippers out of the water to help manage body temperature. Because flippers lose heat quickly, exposing them to the air allows them to absorb warmth and distribute it throughout the body—one of several adaptations that supports survival in cold marine environments.

This species is also capable of traveling long distances. Steller sea lions, especially males, may migrate widely over a season, which helps explain how a massive individual—like a 2,000-pound sea lion nicknamed Chonkers—could end up taking over a busy tourist pier in San Francisco.

Why is the Chonkers at Pier 39 right now?

The simple answer is food. Laura Gill, public programs manager at the Marine Mammal Center, said Chonkers likely had one priority in mind when he showed up. “There’s just a lot of food right now,” Gill said.

Steller sea lions are powerful hunters with a broad and diverse diet. They often feed at night, preying on more than 100 kinds of fish—including Atka mackerel, pollock, salmon and cod—as well as cephalopods like squid and octopus. Their diet shifts with the seasons and varies by location, depending on what prey is available.

They forage both in coastal waters and farther offshore, diving in bottom (benthic) and open-water (pelagic) habitats. Different individuals may adopt very different feeding strategies. Outside the breeding season, some adult females range far beyond the continental shelf in search of food, while others remain closer to shore. During breeding, however, females must stay within reach of their rookery so they can return often to nurse their pups, even as their foraging trips gradually lengthen as the pups grow.

To sustain themselves, grow, and reproduce, Steller sea lions depend on dependable, abundant food sources throughout the year and across all stages of life. Females in particular face especially high energy demands, especially in winter, when they may be supporting themselves, nursing a pup, and carrying another at the same time.

For a 2,000-pound male like Chonkers, maintaining that size requires a huge caloric intake—and right now, San Francisco Bay seems to be providing plenty. That abundance likely explains why this Steller sea lion has settled onto Pier 39’s floating docks instead of continuing on his journey.

How long will Chonkers the sea lion stay at Pier 39?

Probably not long. Pier 39 harbormaster Sheila Chandor told WSJ that the famous floating docks are not designed to be a permanent home for a 2,000-pound visitor like Chonkers.

“We’re a pit stop, that’s how we saw ourselves,” Chandor said. “We didn’t build those floats for 2,000-pound animals.”

Pier 39’s docks can host as many as 2,000 sea lions at a time, depending on the season — but the floats were built with the smaller, sleeker California sea lions in mind, not bulky Steller males who can tip the scales at up to 2,500 pounds. That structural reality, combined with the species’ tendency to migrate long distances chasing food, means Chonkers’ viral run at the pier is likely temporary.

Steller sea lions, especially males, are known to travel significant distances over a season as they follow available prey. Once the food supply that drew Chonkers to San Francisco Bay shifts or thins out, biologists expect him to move along with it. On land, the species also needs safe, undisturbed areas to rest, socialize and care for pups—and a tourist-packed pier is unlikely to remain his preferred stop for long.

For now, though, the Steller is making the most of his temporary stage. Tourists continue to crowd the pier hoping to catch a glimpse of the bear-like chonker who has been crowned “the king” by online fans. As one TikTok commenter put it, “He’s doing a great job.”

If you’re hoping to see Chonkers in person, the advice from his own behavior — and from Chandor’s “pit stop” comment — is straightforward: don’t wait too long.

She and Her Dog Both Beat Breast Cancer: A BRCA2 Carrier’s Story of Hope and Healing

Samantha Agate — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 23:23:13 +0000

Vickie Doogan, 52, and her dog, Dolly, share a bond forged through love, recovery and a diagnosis neither of them expected to have in common. The England woman and her poochon became extremely close when Doogan received her second cancer diagnosis — and their connection deepened further when Dolly faced a startlingly similar fight of her own.

Doogan was first diagnosed with invasive breast cancer at age 39 after experiencing a dull pain and discovering a lump under her arm. Doctors told her the cancer had spread. She underwent chemotherapy, surgery and radiation before being told she was cancer free.

“I was the fittest and healthiest I’d ever been, and I was really looking forward to turning 40,” Doogan recalled to SWNS.

Vickie received a 2nd breast cancer diagnosis and carried BRCA2 mutation

Doogan’s world flipped upside down when she was diagnosed with cancer a second time at age 44 and began treatment. She ultimately underwent a double mastectomy after finding out she was a carrier of the BRCA2 gene mutation.

According to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, BRCA2 is a gene that, when mutated, can increase a person’s lifetime risk of breast and other cancers, including ovarian, prostate and pancreatic. Most breast cancers arising from a BRCA2 gene mutation are estrogen receptor (ER)-positive/HER2-negative.

Dolly became Vickie’s constant companion

Amid her recovery, Doogan got Dolly — a poochon — in 2018. The two have been connected ever since.

“She’s like my shadow,” Doogan said. “She’s the most perfect little dog.”

Then, in February 2026, Doogan noticed Dolly had an upset stomach and took her to the vet to make sure everything was OK. During the exam, the doctor found a lump under one of Dolly’s nipples and said she needed a mastectomy. Doogan was rather shocked to hear the news.

“I was so shocked, I didn’t even know dogs could have mastectomies,” Doogan said.

Doctors said Dolly had a “low-grade” cancer. She underwent the surgery and recovered.

Both Vickie and Dolly are cancer-free now

Now, both Doogan and her dog are cancer-free.

“She bounced back just as well as I did. People said it’s like she’s mirroring how I dealt with it,” Doogan said.

“Now I’m living my best life again. It’s all in my past,” she added. “I want people to know that although breast cancer is scary, you can still live a really full life.”

What to know about mammary tumors in dogs

Mammary tumors in dogs develop from abnormal cell replication in breast tissue and can be benign or malignant, according to Atlantic Coast New York Veterinary Specialists. The condition affects approximately 25 percent of unspayed female dogs. Females spayed before their first heat cycle reduce that risk to 0.05 percent. Those spayed after the first heat but before the second face a risk of approximately 8 percent.

Half of mammary tumors found in dogs are benign. Of those that are malignant, most can be treated successfully with surgery when caught early, the outlet notes. Breast cancer in dogs is relatively common but rare in males, and when male dogs do develop it, the cancer tends to metastasize aggressively.

Orphaned Fawn Named Forest Will Live at Deltona Sanctuary After Imprinting on Humans During Rehab

Hanna Wickes — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 20:33:34 +0000

A white-tailed deer named Forest, orphaned and seriously injured as a fawn, will spend the rest of his life at a Deltona sanctuary after rehabilitation left him too accustomed to humans to survive in the wild.

Forest is set to move to 101 Paws and Claws, a nonprofit sanctuary in Volusia County, once staff finish building a new enclosure designed specifically for him. The organization is racing to complete the habitat — and raise the money to pay for it — on a tight timeline.

Why Forest can’t go back to the wild

Forest was orphaned as a fawn and suffered multiple injuries, including a broken leg. During his recovery, he was bottle-fed and cared for closely by humans. That hands-on care saved his life, but it came with a permanent consequence: he imprinted on people.

According to Meagan Farley, CEO of 101 Paws and Claws, that imprinting means Forest now associates humans with food and safety. For a wild deer, that’s a dangerous combination. A deer that approaches people instead of fleeing is vulnerable to vehicles, hunters and other threats it would normally avoid.

Releasing him is no longer an option. Instead, the sanctuary is preparing to give him a permanent home.

“We’re going to try to make it as natural as possible for him. He’s going to live his life out here,” Farley told The Daytona Beach News-Journal.

A fast turnaround for the sanctuary

The path to Forest’s new home began when an animal rehabber in Volusia County reached out to Farley about taking him in. The request came quickly, and the sanctuary had to move fast to be ready for his arrival.

“It was kind of a rush thing, so we have a month to pull this all together,” Farley told The Daytona Beach News-Journal on April 17.

That compressed window is shaping every decision the nonprofit makes — from construction priorities to fundraising. Staff and volunteers are working to design a space that meets Forest’s needs as a deer that can no longer roam freely but still deserves a habitat that feels close to natural.

What Forest’s new home will look like

The planned enclosure includes fencing and a barn, along with a wooded area where Forest can choose to hide or stay out of sight when he wants privacy. The design reflects a key principle of the sanctuary’s approach: giving animals control over their own interactions.

Visitors will not be brought into Forest’s enclosure. Instead, he’ll have the option — but never the obligation — to come close to the fence line during tours.

“It’s entirely up to him whether he wants to come out and interact with people on the tour. We won’t bring people into the enclosure,” Farley said.

The sanctuary also offers private tours as part of its fundraising efforts to support animal care. For Forest, that means his daily life can stay as quiet or as social as he chooses.

Fundraising falls short of goal

Building Forest’s new home isn’t cheap, and the sanctuary is still well short of what it needs.

The fencing alone is the largest expense, estimated at about $5,600. As of April 17, the nonprofit had raised approximately $500 — a small fraction of the total needed to complete the project on schedule.

The gap between funds raised and funds needed underscores how dependent small sanctuaries are on community support. Every dollar contributed goes toward the materials, labor and ongoing care that allow animals like Forest to live out their lives safely.