Pets Archives - Page 8 of 16

14 Alarming Pet Trends That Are Doing More Harm Than Good

February 18, 2025 by Julie Majid

These Popular Pet Trends Are Causing More Harm Than You Think.

Trends come and go, but when it comes to pet care, some fads are doing more harm than good. What may seem like a fun or innovative way to care for animals can often lead to unintended consequences. From diet crazes to over-the-top grooming habits, some of these trends put pets at risk—whether by causing health problems, increasing stress, or prioritizing human desires over animal welfare.

The rise of social media has only made the problem worse, with pet owners following viral trends that aren’t always in the best interest of their furry friends. Some practices, like feeding raw diets or dressing pets in elaborate outfits, may seem harmless at first but can lead to serious complications. Others, like impulse adoptions or over-reliance on AI for pet care, reveal the darker side of modern pet ownership. Here are 14 trends that may be causing more harm than good.

10 Reasons Why Having a Pet Chicken May Be a Terrible Decision

February 14, 2025 by Julie Majid

Owning chickens might seem like a great idea, think again.

Raising chickens as pets has become a popular trend, with many people drawn to the idea of fresh eggs, self-sufficiency, and the charm of having feathered companions in their backyard. But before you jump on the backyard chicken bandwagon, there are some serious downsides you need to consider. Chickens aren’t low-maintenance pets—they require constant care, protection, and cleaning. They can also attract unwanted pests, damage your garden, and come with unexpected veterinary expenses.

While they might look adorable pecking around your yard, the reality of keeping pet chickens is far from easy. If you’re not fully prepared for the commitment, what starts as an exciting new hobby can quickly turn into a frustrating, messy, and expensive mistake. Here are 10 reasons why having a pet chicken might not be as great as you think.

Surprisingly Affectionate Animals That Form Deep Bonds with Humans

February 12, 2025 by Nicole Gehweiler

Some animals go beyond curiosity and form real connections with humans

Many people assume that deep connections with animals are limited to dogs and cats, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. There are plenty of unexpected species that actively seek out human interaction, responding to kindness with trust, affection, and even loyalty. Some of these animals are known for their intelligence, while others simply enjoy companionship in a way that surprises even seasoned animal lovers.

From the largest rodents to gentle giants of the sea, these animals prove that bonds with humans exist across the animal kingdom. Here are 15 creatures that, despite not being traditional pets, form meaningful connections with humans.

Do Pets Have Self-Awareness? The Mirror Test And Beyond

February 4, 2025 by Julie Majid

Scientists Are Rethinking How We Measure Animal Consciousness

The question of whether pets have self-awareness has fascinated researchers for decades. Traditionally, scientists have relied on the mirror test, a method that determines if an animal can recognize itself in a reflection. However, as studies expand, experts are finding that self-awareness might be more complex than previously thought. Many animals, including dogs and cats, fail the mirror test but demonstrate other behaviors that suggest a level of self-recognition.

Recent research is challenging the idea that a single test can measure an animal’s self-awareness. Scientists are exploring new methods that consider an animal’s unique sensory abilities, including scent recognition and body awareness. This shift in perspective has led to some groundbreaking discoveries about how pets perceive themselves. Here are ten fascinating insights into the evolving science of animal self-awareness.

Pasadena Animal Shelter Still Struggling to Unite Pets With Their Owners In Wake of Los Angeles Fires

February 3, 2025 by Nicole Gehweiler

Heartbreaking Numbers Show Just How Many Pets Are Still Waiting to Go Home

The devastation left behind by the Eaton Fire is more than just a statistic—it’s a heartbreaking reality for hundreds of families desperately searching for their lost pets. The Pasadena Humane Society has worked tirelessly to reunite over 400 animals with their owners, but more than 100 remain unclaimed, waiting in overcrowded shelters, unsure if they’ll ever see their families again.

The shelter is beyond capacity, with nearly 1,000 animals taken in since the fire started. Volunteers are scrambling to provide care, while pet lovers across the region are stepping up to help. The road to recovery is long, and there’s still so much to be done to ensure every displaced animal finds safety and, hopefully, their way back home.