Author: Shannon Willoby

You can’t control the weather, but you can control how prepared you are for a major storm. And when it comes to hurricane season (which runs from May to November), the earlier you start, the better. “The best advice I have is to start preparing before hurricane season begins,” says Kristen Brauer, DVM, a veterinarian at Healing Hands for Pets in St. Petersburg, Florida. “Don’t wait until the hurricane is approaching.”,You’ve hurricane-proofed your house and stocked up on essentials—but have you prepped for your pets? Sadly, 47% of evacuees have had to leave at least one pet behind during a hurricane, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). But with a little planning, you can avoid this heartbreaking scenario and keep your pets safe during severe weather.

Q: Most of the time before my dog goes to sleep, she spins in a few circles before settling in her bed. It’s very cute, but is this normal?  A: Yes, it’s totally normal for dogs to circle before they lie down. This adorable pre-sleep ritual is likely an instinctive behavior passed down by your pup’s ancestors—wolves. Circling serves several practical purposes, from creating a cozy bed to checking that the spot is secure.  We spoke with two certified veterinary behaviorists to learn the reasons behind this behavior and when it might signal something more serious. 

Has your dog ever looked bored? Just like humans, dogs can feel a little blah when there’s not enough to do.    When their days feel repetitive or they’re not getting enough physical or mental enrichment, pups may become restless or even turn to mischief.   If boredom lasts too long, it can even affect their health. Here’s how to spot the signs of boredom and keep your dog active and entertained.  

Telling an American Pit Bull Terrier apart from a Staffordshire Bull Terrier can be a little tricky. For one, they look similar, with muscular builds, short coats, and adorable blocky heads. If that wasn’t enough, the terms “Pit Bull” and “Staffy” are often used as catch-alls for multiple bully breeds, including American Staffordshire Terriers. To further complicate matters, the American Pit Bull Terrier isn’t recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as an official breed, although it is recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC). Meanwhile, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier has full AKC recognition.  So, how do you tell these lovable look-alikes apart? In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between American Pit Bull Terriers versus Staffordshire Bull Terriers, from appearance to personality. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of which breed is the better match for your family.