Even as reports circulated that President Joe Biden was set to spend the weekend reevaluating his 2024 presidential campaign, another report suggested any such confab would have to wait until after the family photo shoot with famed Vogue photographer Annie Leibovitz. The New York Times White House correspondent Katie Rogers posted an update on X, noting that the photo shoot had been specifically set for this particular weekend in order to accommodate the now-convicted First Son Hunter Biden and his family. “Camp David: Biden family spent morning not having a summit but in hair and makeup for a shoot with Annie Leibovitz, Vogue photog who shot Biden/Obama/Clinton in March then suggested doing something informal with the Bidens,” Rogers posted. “Family suggested this week, bc Hunter & family in town.” Camp David: Biden family spent morning not having a summit but in hair and makeup for a shoot with Annie Leibovitz, Vogue photog who shot Biden/Obama/Clinton in March then suggested doing something informal with the Bidens. Family suggested this week, bc Hunter & family in town. — Katie Rogers (@katierogers) June 30, 2024 Critics were not impressed with the Bidens’ plans, particularly in the wake of his disastrous debate performance on Thursday. In light of the fact that the date had reportedly been chosen to accommodate Hunter Biden and his family, a number also asked whether Navy Joan — Hunter’s daughter with former stripper Lunden Roberts — would be included. “Love that we have to have these Succession-like charades so that corrupt political dynasties can decide in hair and makeup whether millions of people get to live,” one posted. Love that we have to have these Succession-like charades so that corrupt political dynasties can decide in hair and makeup whether millions of people get to live. https://t.co/VPQGryuh4Z — Heidi N. Moore (@moorehn) June 30, 2024 “Will they include Hunter’s other daughter, Navy, in the Biden family shoot or continue to pretend she does not exist?” another asked. Will they include Hunter’s other daughter, Navy, in the Biden family shoot or continue to pretend she does not exist https://t.co/bUy1fkavJC — Just Mindy ? (@just_mindy) June 30, 2024 Axios reporter Alex Thompson said that the Biden family meeting — which NBC reported was to be a hard look at Biden’s re-election prospects post-debate — had been pre-planned and the photo shoot was to be a part of that. “.@jeffzeleny reports this AM that the Biden family meeting was pre-planned and that it includes a photo shoot with Annie Leibowitz,” he said. More details from @katierogers https://t.co/INr4yua2CU — Alex Thompson (@AlexThomp) June 30, 2024

Rep. James Clyburn (D-SC) defended President Joe Biden’s disastrous debate performance during an interview over the weekend, claiming that Biden has a hard time getting a “word out” because he is a “stutterer.” Clyburn made the remarks during a Sunday interview on CNN’s “State of the Union” with co-host Dana Bash. The 83-year-old excused Biden’s “bad performance” by claiming: “I have been a part of debate preparation before, and I know when I see what I call preparation overload. And that’s exactly what was going on the other night.” “I saw Joe Biden grabbing for words and phrases and even numbers that he was loaded up with,” he claimed. He said that he believes that Biden should “very clearly he should stay in this race”, even though new polling released on Sunday by CBS News found that only 27% of voters believe that he has the mental fitness to continue serving as president. “Joe Biden has a history of stuttering. He did that as a child. All of us know how stutterers operate. I went to school with one,” he said. “So, when you have trouble getting out a word, that is what comes from stuttering. But when he expressed opinions, he was on the money with the opinions. He may not have gotten the word out, but the thoughts were great.” WATCH:

A “deeper investigation” is needed for looking into the infamous letter used to discredit the Hunter Biden laptop story weeks before the 2020 presidential election as crimes may have been committed, a top official from the Trump administration said on Sunday. Former Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe, who was joined by former House Intelligence Chairman Devin Nunes (R-CA), spoke to “Sunday Morning Futures” host Maria Bartiromo on Fox News about the revelation last week that some of the former  officials who signed the letter were on the CIA‘s payroll at the time. “The CIA is supposed to be apolitical and is charged by law under the Hatch Act and other restrictions from engaging in political activity,” he said. “What made this letter OK from one perspective early on was all of the assertions that these were former officials acting in their private capacity.” Ratcliffe continued, “Now the CIA has admitted, and there’s testimony here, that at least some of these individuals were under contract with the CIA, which means Hatch Act violations and perhaps more serious criminal violations under Title 18 for election interference.” House investigators found that two of the 51 signatories — former Deputy CIA Director Michael Morell and former CIA Inspector General David Buckley — were actively working for the CIA as contractors when the statement was published. The “revelation raises concerns that these officials may have abused their positions to expedite the statement’s approval and may have been earning taxpayer dollars while they did it,” the Weaponization of the Federal Government panel said in a report. In response to the findings, a CIA spokesperson insisted that the former officials were “not speaking for” the agency. And the report noted that Hatch Act political restrictions do not apply to contractors in the same way they do to CIA employees, though it proposed that lawmakers consider whether to extend the prohibition to contractors. Ratcliffe said the House “has done some good work here” but added that the laptop controversy “really requires a deeper investigation, one that the Biden administration won’t undertake.” He went on to suggest his former boss, Donald Trump, could make that happen if he wins a second term in November. “What has to happen here, Maria, is that when President Trump is sworn into office, a new CIA director, a new CIA inspector general, and a new attorney general for a Trump administration need a deeper investigation and potential criminal referrals here,” he explained. “And the other thing I would say is, regardless of how all of this plays out, all of those former officials and current officials that were involved in orchestrating this should be irrevocably and permanently stripped of any security clearances or affiliation with the intelligence community,” Ratcliffe said. He added, “Look, you know, Maria, that we have what’s called a debarment list where we put companies and individuals that defraud the government on a list and say, ‘You’re a bad actor, you can’t be affiliated or do business with the government anymore.’ That needs to take place with these officials so this kind of political interference can’t occur anymore.”

Michael J. Fox’s emotional performances with Coldplay have been going viral on social media, and it seems the experience was just as moving for him as it was for his fans. The actor took to social media on Sunday afternoon (June 30) to share his overwhelming gratitude to the people who made the night possible and reflect on the feelings he had while onstage. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Michael J Fox (@realmikejfox) In an Instagram post, Michael shared several photos and a video from his time in Glastonbury and penned a brief caption about the experience. “My team : Lauren, John and Jeff and Steve,” he began. “Glastonbury all the love and thanks to the @coldplay team, who took such great care of us. And many thanks to Chris, Will, Johnny, Guy and Phil.” “Oh yeah, in case you were wondering…it was f*cking mind-blowing,” he continued. “There is a time for every band and a band for every time. This is @coldplay’s time. More pics to come.” Coldplay And Michael J. Fox Surpise Crowd In England Michael J. Fox joined Coldplay for two songs while the band played for a massive crowd in Glastonbury, England on June 29. The actor brought out his electric guitar and jammed out to Humankind and Fix You. Videos of his performances are spinetingling. Coldplay’s frontman, Chris Martin, who has performed with Michael on several occasions, noted that the actor’s legendary Johnny B. Goode scene from Back to the Future inspired him to form his band. So the opportunity to play with him was more than special. “The main reason we’re in a band is because of Back to the Future,” he told the roaring crowd. “So thank you to Michael, our hero.” You can find the source of this story’s featured image here. The post Michael J. Fox Reflects On His “Mind-Blowing” Experience With Coldplay appeared first on InspireMore.

To discuss the aftermath of the disastrous Biden debate on Saturday night's Life Liberty & Levin, Mark Levin said there was "no better guest: than Media Research Center "head muckety-muck" Brent Bozell. Levin began by noting CNN and MSNBC and the rest mocked Fox News and the conservative media for "pouncing" on Biden's feeble performances. Bozell said the media's lying has been exposed:  BOZELL: As you saw the debate in progress, you sensed that the left was collapsing in shock at what they were looking at. But where conservatives were concerned, conservatives were just pointing at this and saying, this is what we've been saying all about this man. He's old, he's feeble, he's falling apart, and he shouldn't be president and leader of the free world. The media are now in a panic because everything they thought about him, everything that we're saying about him was false. After discussing the younger, allegedly more charismatic options the Democrats have, from Vice President Kamala Harris to California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Levin turned the attention back to the media and how these corporations "need to clean up their act...from the top down."  LEVIN: This is a huge problem. They tried to push this guy through when everybody knew who wasn't a partisan leftist and a Democrat, that this guy is a danger for America. No? BOZELL: Yes. I found it striking in the post-debate analysis how many of these Democrats -- I was going to say Democrats, but they are -- media types. We are talking about the phone calls they'd been receiving during the debate and after the debate from Democratic leaders and Democrats who were saying Biden has got to come off the ticket. Look, these are Democratic candidates who are spinning against him and they know they're spinning against him and they reported that spin, so they're spinning for the future potential Democratic candidates. After a commercial break, Levin turned to the point that Donald Trump didn't engage in a week of debate prep, and still came out on top:  LEVIN: Donald Trump looked 30 years younger than Joe Biden and he was absolutely on his game. And I think that also helped expose Biden, who came up on the stage, was very frail and there was a very strong, confident, you know, president, former president who knew what he wanted to talk about and talked about it pretty easily. BOZELL: Go back to the first debate in 2020 where Donald Trump was so dismissive of the need to prepare. He said, I am going to do a rally somewhere and he got trounced. In the second debate, he did much better. He probably won on points in that debate. In the debate just concluded, he clobbered Joe Biden, not just because Joe Biden was so terrible, but because he was so good. He was well-prepared. Kudos, you know, those people who like Donald Trump, give applause to whoever was helping him and coaching him and preparing him because he was all of those things. But I think the best thing was, he was presidential. He didn't go off message. He stayed on point. Here is something interesting, Mark. The questions were completely skewed against him. We counted 22 questions, of which eight were neutral, the rest where 11 coming from the perspective of the left, the questions the left wanted to ask, only three came from the perspective of the right; questions the right wanted to ask, and yet, with that four to one disparity against him, he did well. The questions tilted left, but the moderators are now being attacked for not "fact checking" Trump. 

Vitamin C is an antioxidant, which means that it helps prevent oxidative damage. It’s required to make collagen and for the healthy function of the immune system. Oxidative damage is related to many health problems in people and is becoming a topic of interest in veterinary medicine as well. However, most of the claims of vitamin C’s benefits in combating certain health issues in humans, have proven unrewarding, and these anecdotes cannot be extrapolated to cats, based on the current research findings.1 Cats produce vitamin C within their body, which humans cannot do. Therefore, cats don’t need vitamin C in their diet. However, vitamin C supplementation is sometimes recommended by vets for sick or immunocompromised felines. Without a vet’s advice, supplementation may be harmful, as too much vitamin C can lead to calcium oxalate formation in the urinary tract, increasing the risk of oxalate stones,  and may even have a pro-oxidant effect. Do Cats Need Vitamin C? Before considering any kind of vitamin C supplementation in cats, it’s crucial to consult with your vet. Cats produce their own vitamin C and rarely require extra in their diet. An excess of vitamin C may cause gastrointestinal issues or excretion through the kidneys and the urinary bladder in the form of calcium oxalate, which may predispose some cats to the formation of stones, anywhere from the kidney to the urethra. This may lead to a urinary blockage, which is common in male cats and can be life-threatening. Too much vitamin C may actually have a pro-oxidant effect, meaning it promotes cell damage. A cat rarely needs vitamin C supplementation, and your veterinary surgeon should be your first port of call. With that said, the following foods are rich in vitamin C. This list is purely for your interest, as these foods are more likely to be needed by humans who rely on vitamin C in their diet. Check with your vet to see if these fruits and vegetables may be an occasional treat for your cat. Another downside of giving your cat fruit or veg is the fact that they do not need it. Cats are obligate carnivores and thrive on an animal protein-rich diet. Carbs are not something they need, and excess carbs may lead to gastrointestinal issues or calorie excess, predisposing them to weight gain over time. These choices may not be suitable for diabetic cats or cats with ongoing gastrointestinal or other health issues, so again, consult your vet. Offering occasional fruit or veg treats to your cat, besides a new flavor, is not going to provide them with significant health benefits. And that’s okay. This is because your cat can only safely consume a small amount of these treats, so the nutritional value is too small to be considered valuable. Your cat’s balanced and complete diet will provide them with all the micronutrients they require to thrive. The 6 Foods High in Vitamin C for Cats 1. Strawberries Image Credit: Brendan Delany, Shutterstock Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and safe for most cats to consume as an occasional treat in moderation. They can be given fresh after being washed, in case of any pesticides, and often need to be cut into smaller pieces, as many cats won’t chew them. Don’t be surprised if your cat doesn’t find strawberries palatable, as they don’t taste sugar like we do. They should not be forced to eat strawberries and should instead be offered species-appropriate meat-based treats. However, this isn’t the case for all cats. Sometimes, cats love strawberries, making them a suitable occasional treat, according to your vet’s recommendations. If your cat won’t eat strawberries, you can try cutting them up and putting them in your cat’s usual wet food, but not more than once a week. Don’t be tempted to give your cat any strawberry juice, as this often contains additional sugar, additives, and sometimes even artificial flavorings that are not safe for cats to consume. 2. Broccoli It may surprise you to learn that broccoli is high in vitamin C. It’s also rich in vitamin K and fiber. Some felines prefer veggies over fruits, though this is a matter of personal preference. Either way, it should be offered in strict moderation, as excess may lead to a stomach upset. We highly recommend cooking broccoli before giving it to your cat. Raw broccoli can be hard for cats to eat. However, steaming broccoli until it is very soft is much more palatable to many cats. Just be sure not to add any spices or oils, as these can be unsafe for your feline. Keep the amount to a few bites, once a week. 3. Peas Image Credit: Moving Moment, Shutterstock Peas are another vegetable that is high in vitamin C. We recommend steaming them just like broccoli with no added ingredients. Peas also contain a variety of other vitamins and minerals, including fiber. They’re surprisingly high in protein, too. Many cat foods contain small amounts of peas for this reason. However, only animal protein contains all the essential amino acids that cats require, which is why cats can’t be vegetarian or vegan. 4. Cantaloupe Cantaloupe is safe for cats and very high in water, making it a tasty summer treat. You can cut cantaloupe into small bite-sized pieces and feed them chilled to your cat on a hot day. Many cats like cantaloupe because it isn’t as sweet as other fruits. However, it isn’t odd for cats to refuse to eat it. Offer it in moderation and only occasionally, not more often than once a week. 5. Spinach Image Credit: Sunny Forest, Shutterstock Spinach is high in several vitamins, including vitamin C. You can feed it to your feline in small amounts as an occasional treat, but it’s important to consult with a veterinarian first. Spinach is rich in calcium oxalate, which may predispose some cats to form urinary crystals and stones, particularly if they are already suffering from this health issue. Cooking will reduce the amount of oxalate, but this vegetable is still not recommended for all cats due to the risk of remaining oxalate. Cooked spinach can be served in very small amounts in the cat’s usual food. Again, this should be no more than once every 1-2 weeks and only if your vet has ascertained its safety for your cat. Cook spinach without other ingredients before offering it to your feline. Many of the seasonings and oils you might normally add to spinach are harmful or even toxic to cats. 6. Blueberries Blueberries contain fiber and vitamin C. Some cats may be more likely to consume blueberries than other fruits. If your cat didn’t like the cantaloupe or strawberries, you might want to give blueberries a try. These berries can be fed to your cat completely raw, after washing. They’re used in several commercial cat foods. Offer them in small amounts as an occasional snack. Conclusion There are some veggies and fruits you can give your cat as a treat in moderation, though not to increase their vitamin C intake unless recommended by your vet. Cats produce their own vitamin C, and supplementation is unnecessary in most cases unless directed by the vet. Many of the listed foods aren’t necessarily cats’ favorites and are not appropriate as part of their regular diet, but can instead be offered as occasional treats. Cats don’t have a dietary requirement for fruit or veggies, as they are obligate carnivores and do not need them in their diet. Their diet is based on animal protein sources, with moderate amounts of fat and low levels of carbs. Sources The A-B-C’s of Vitamin C Use of ascorbic acid and other antioxidants in the dog and cat Effect of vitamin C supplements on antioxidant defense and stress proteins in human lymphocytes and skeletal muscle Vitamin C in Veterinary Medicine Vitamin C | The Nutrition Source Effect of different cooking methods on vegetable oxalate content Regulation of Oxalate Metabolism in Spinach Revealed by RNA-Seq-Based Transcriptomic Analysis – PMC Featured Image Credit: K Bak, Shutterstock The post 6 Foods High in Vitamin C for Cats: Vet-Approved Nutritional Info & Facts appeared first on PangoVet.

Click to Skip Ahead Research Results What Are Litter Attractants? Causes of Litter Box Problems How to Encourage Cats to Return to the Litter Box Litter attractants are added to cat litter to tempt cats, particularly those that are experiencing litter box issues, to spend time peeing and pooping in the litter box instead of elsewhere. Although research regarding the effectiveness of litter attractants is limited, litter attractants appear to work for some cats. Before trying litter attractants, speak with your veterinarian. Litter box avoidance and other behavioral changes linked to urination and defecation often indicate that cats aren’t feeling well. If your cat isn’t urinating normally due to a health issue, such as an infection, illness, or stress around using the litter box, the attractant will not help. If your cat gets the all-clear from the vet and there is no indication of a medical problem causing misuse of the litter box, a litter attractant may encourage them to use it again. Research Results In a 2019 study designed to evaluate the efficacy of one specific attractant, the cats urinated more often in the attractant-treated plant-based litter than in the untreated plant-based litter.1 The cats were familiar with clay-based litter, but the researchers were unsure if they had used plant-based litter. Therefore, they determined that using natural litter was a better material for the test because cats would not be biased by their experiences with clay products. The study also uncovered that cats prefer to use clean litter boxes next to a wall rather than away from it. This is the only study focused on the effectiveness of litter attractants, but since it showed that most cats preferred the litter with an attractant, it might convince your healthy cat to use the bathroom in the box rather than your carpet. Image Credit: Nils Jacobi, Shutterstock What Are Litter Attractants? Litter attractants are additives that make a cat’s litter box more appealing. Some products merely absorb odors and don’t have additional fragrances, while others use herbs like catnip to attract cats to the litter. You can also purchase litter that contains an attractant. Next, we’ll discuss each type in more detail. Odor Absorbers Cats prefer a clean litter tray over a dirty one, particularly when it comes to solid material. Removing feces and clumped litter is important when making a litter box more appealing, and unless the box is clean, the attractant won’t help. Using odor-absorbing products can irritate some cats if they include strong fragrances, but you can find several formulas that only contain baking soda. Bicarbonate of soda is unlikely to bother your cat, and it will make the litter box more pleasant by reducing odors. Image Credit: Oleg Opryshko, Shutterstock Sprays and Powders Commercial sprays and powders are designed to attract cats and encourage them to associate positively with their litter boxes. Their ingredients vary, but we recommend using attractants with herbs like catnip. If the ingredients include chemical fragrances and additives, you can’t be sure they’re safe for your cat. DIY Additives Dried catnip can be sprinkled directly on the litter to attract your cat, or you can use a catnip spray on the sides of the litter box. Valerian and silvervine powders are also safe to add to the litter box. Image Credit: Michelle Lee Photography, Shutterstock Commercial Litters You can purchase commercial litter with attractants already added. Several types are available, including clumping and non-clumping options and biodegradable choices made from walnut shells. Unscented and scented products are available, but scented litter can sometimes be too much for cats with sensitive noses. Since catnip and other cat-safe herbs are inexpensive, buying regular, unscented litter and adding a natural attractant is more cost-effective than buying a more expensive formula with an attractant. What Causes Litter Box Problems in Cats? Litter box problems in cats are linked to various causes, including illness and stress. For instance, cats with mobility problems or joint issues have trouble entering and exiting litter boxes with high sides and may decide to go on the floor instead. Cats with urinary tract problems often urinate in cool, smooth spots like bathtubs. Changes in litter box behavior can be a sign of stress or anxiety, and some cats suffer from stress-related cystitis. Other conditions leading to litter box issues include hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, and bladder stones. Kidney disease and diabetes can make cats urinate more often, and if their owners don’t keep the litter boxes clean, the cats will find a more appealing area, such as the carpet. Image Credit: stokerolga, Shutterstock Are There Ways to Encourage Cats to Return to the Litter Box? Once your cat has been checked out by a veterinarian and received a clean bill of health, you can try one of our suggestions below to convince them to use the litter box. It’s better to try them before using an attractant. If one solves the problem, you don’t have to spend money on herbs or commercial products. Location Most cats prefer to use the litter box in quiet areas that provide privacy, and older pets may have trouble navigating stairs or getting to litter boxes far away from their favorite hangouts. To make it easier for your cat to access their bathroom, it’s best to have at least one litter box on every level of your house. Place the box in a room without loud appliances and far away from your cat’s food and water bowls. Cats dislike using the bathroom near their food. Image Credit: MyImages – Micha, Shutterstock Litter box number The rule of thumb for litter boxes is to have one per cat, plus one extra. This helps reduce any competition for resources between cats and, therefore, reduces stress. Resource guarding is usually associated with food or toys but can include litter boxes. If you frequently see urine or feces on the floor and have multiple felines, one of your cats may be bullying another and preventing them from entering the box. If you add additional boxes and space them out around your home, your bullied cat may feel more comfortable and use the litter box. Cleanliness Cats have powerful noses and high standards when it comes to litter box cleanliness. The litter should be scooped daily, but particularly sensitive cats appreciate twice-daily scooping. The boxes must also be cleaned with soap and water every week, especially if you have more than one cat. Image Credit: Ninotee, Shutterstock Litter Box Design and Litter Choice Some cats like large, wide, open litter boxes, and others prefer enclosed units that provide privacy. Cats with mobility issues have difficulty getting into top-entry boxes with high sides and need models with low-entry points. Some cats also have strong preferences regarding the litter’s texture; grainy sand-like products are popular, but your cat may prefer crystal or recycled paper litter. Setting up a few litter boxes with different litter substrates is a simple way to discover if your cat has a litter preference. Stress Reduction Cats that are anxious or stressed can display several signs. Some stressed cats withdraw and start sleeping more, but excessive grooming and litter box issues are common. If they’re displaying these signs, your veterinarian should examine your cat, and if the stress is a behavioral problem, they can provide advice to reduce it. However, you can also make your home more cat-friendly if the problem seems to be related to the environment. Monitor the dynamic between your cats if you have more than one.  Do they sleep and groom each other?  If so, the other cat is unlikely to be causing the stress. If they don’t, one of your cats may be stressing out the other. To reduce their stress, ensure you have multiple feeding, drinking, sleeping, and toileting areas available so that the cats can avoid one another if they prefer to. You can also provide each cat with separate toys, scratching posts, and cat trees to reduce resource guarding. [sc name=”hepper-spray-vs-deodorizer-mention-1″][/sc] Conclusion Litter attractants can convince cats to urinate and defecate in the litter box instead of on the floor, but you may need to make a few changes in your home before using them. Cats avoid litter boxes or use the bathroom outside of them for several reasons, including stress and illness, and it’s essential to have your cat checked out by a veterinarian if you notice any changes in their bathroom habits Cats may avoid using the litter box because of its location, shape, or even the type of litter it contains. Evidence suggests that cats may prefer to pee in litter treated by attractants. However, there’s also evidence that keeping the litter box clean, putting litter boxes in convenient places, and ensuring cats have a type of litter that pleases their paws and noses can also help. Sources https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6770919/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0376635716302972 https://www.petmd.com/cat/care/litter-box-training-why-setup-and-placement-matters https://www.petmd.com/cat/behavior/reasons-your-cat-peeing-outside-litter-box https://www.cats.org.uk/cats-blog/6-signs-your-cats-are-best-friends Featured Image Credit: Alexandra Morosanu, Shutterstock The post Do Cat Litter Attractants Work? Vet Approved Facts & Care Tips appeared first on PangoVet.

Click to Skip Ahead Pet Ownership Economic & Social Impact Animal Shelters FAQ Note: This article’s statistics come from third-party sources and do not represent the opinions of this website. An island paradise, Hawaii has been a dream destination for years. Who hasn’t, at some point, wanted to live in this South Pacific wonderland? Still, the reality of day-to-day living in a place is often quite different from the perception, and the disparity can often result in disappointment and unpleasant surprises. If you’ve ever wondered about what owning a pet in Hawaii looks like, we’ve put together some of the most important things you would want to know about owning and caring for a pet as a resident of the 50th state. The 15 Pet Ownership in Hawaii Statistics At least 60% of households in Hawaii own at least one pet. 38% of households own at least one dog. 25% of households own at least one cat. Of residents aged 20–40, who make up 24.3% of the population, 27% own pets. Of residents aged 40–60, who make up 33.9% of the population, 64% own pets. Of residents aged 60 and over, who make up 26.1% of the population, 54% own pets. $355 million was spent by owners in Hawaii on their pets in 2021. There are around 3,695 pet-related jobs in Hawaii. There are around 5,442 pet-linked jobs or jobs supporting the primary pet-based industry in Hawaii. In the Honolulu metropolitan area, only nine off-leash dog parks exist to serve 143,000 dog owners. Of dogs acquired during the COVID pandemic, 90% are still in place, and of cats acquired during the COVID pandemic, 87% are still in place. A total of 23,183 dogs and cats entered shelters in Hawaii last year. 18,142 of these dogs were saved. 2,793 were euthanized, with a 78.3% save rate. Of the nine shelters in Hawaii, only the one on Kauai is 100% no-kill. Pet Ownership in Hawaii 1. At least 60% of 468K households in Hawaii own at least one pet. (Pet Hospitals of Hawaii) This figure is significantly higher than the overall US average of 36.5%. Possible reasons for this include the climate, which allows ample time outside with pets year-round, and a percentage of free-standing dwellings with yards considerably higher than many other areas. Image Credit: Rita_Kochmarjova, Shutterstock 2. 38% of households own at least one dog. (Pawlicy) Hawaii is a highly favorable environment for dogs, with abundant outside spaces they can enjoy together with their owners. 3. 25% of households own at least one cat. (Pawlicy) Lower ownership of cats compared to dogs is consistent with national averages. Even so, the difference between the two percentages is wider than in many other parts of the country, especially in strictly urban locales. 4. Of residents aged 20–40, who make up 24.3% of the population, 27% own pets. (Pawlicy) This age group has been recognized as often seeking to delay both marriage and starting families later than most of their generational predecessors, for a variety of reasons. This is believed to have increased their preference to adopt pets. Image Credit: U__Photo, Shutterstock 5. Of residents aged 40–60, who make up 33.9% of the population, 64% own pets. (Pawlicy) This segment is most likely to include families with kids at home, making pet ownership highly attractive. Studies show this age group is the most interested in self-care and improvement, both of which often involve taking on pet-based relationships. 6. Of residents aged 60 and over, who make up 26.1% of the population, 54% own pets. (Pawlicy) People this age often become new pet owners when suddenly finding themselves on their own, whether from grown children leaving home, divorce, or the passing of a spouse. Economic & Social Impact of Pet Ownership 7. $355 million was spent by owners in Hawaii on their pets in 2021. (Pet Advocacy) It is estimated that $256 million of this constituted in-state earnings, which characterizes the pet industry as a formidable contributor to the island economy. Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock 8. There are around 3,695 pet-related jobs in Hawaii. (Pet Advocacy) This sector includes such areas as veterinary and other medical services and goods, maintenance and grooming providers, food and consumables retailers, and general pet-related products. 9. There are roughly 5,442 pet-linked jobs or jobs supporting primary pet-based operations in Hawaii. (Pet Advocacy) These cover manufacture, supply, and transport for the primary industries, among others. 10. In the Honolulu metropolitan area, only nine off-leash dog parks exist to serve 143,000 dog owners. (Bringfido) Given the generally pet-friendly surroundings, this figure is surprisingly low, although legislation has been introduced to increase the numbers. Image Credit: Ksenia Raykova, Shutterstock 11. Of dogs acquired during the COVID pandemic, 90% are still in place, and of cats acquired during the COVID pandemic, 87% are still in place. (ASPCApro) ASPCA surveys show that most households who got a pet since the beginning of COVID still have the pet in their home, and that, among animals who were rehomed, more were placed with friends, family members, and neighbors than went to shelters and rescues. Animal Shelters in Hawaii 12. 23,183 dogs and cats entered shelters in Hawaii last year. (Bestfriends) Among the seven islands, there are only nine shelters in total. 13. 18,142 of these dogs were saved. (ASPCA) Studies show that a strong majority of all pets, specifically dogs and cats, are acquired from commercial sellers and shops. Rescuing pets from shelters is rarely undertaken. Image Credit: hedgehog94, Shutterstock 14. 2,793 were euthanized, with a 78.3% save rate. (Bestfriends) This is somewhat lower than the national average save rate of 82%. 15. Of the nine shelters in Hawaii, only the one on Kauai is 100% no-kill (Bestfriends) Unfortunately, for shelters to increase their no-kill rating, both funding and local government support are required. In Hawaii, as has been seen, these advantages can be difficult to secure. You can help to make every shelter no-kill. Visit https://bestfriends.org/no-kill-2025 to find out how. Pet Ownership in Hawaii FAQ Can I bring my pet to Hawaii? (Hawaii Government) Hawaii is the only state to be 100% rabies-free. As a result, animals on the island are not vaccinated against the disease. This requires strict enforcement of quarantine measures for any animals arriving from the mainland. You can check the Government FAQ here. Also, you should make sure to enquire with your airline, who may have specific requirements of their own. Image Credit: Chamomile_Olya, Shutterstock What is the most popular breed of dog in Hawaii? (Khon2) The top five dog breeds in Hawaii are: Chihuahua Pit Bull Mixed Breed Labrador Pomeranian Conclusion Hawaii’s unique and satisfying island lifestyle offers a wide range of unique pleasures for anyone fortunate enough to find themselves there. This can prove to be an equally fantastic experience for your pet buddies, so you can enjoy the bounty and beauty of the Aloha State together. Sources https://bestfriends.org/ https://petadvocacy.org/ https://spots.com/ https://www.simplyinsurance.com/ https://www.pethospitalsofhawaii.com/ https://www.bringfido.com/ ASPCA https://www.aspcapro.org https://hdoa.hawaii.gov https://www.khon2.com/local-news/list-hawaiis-top-5-popular-dog-breeds/ Featured Image Credit: Gladskikh Tatiana, Shutterstock The post 15 Pet Ownership Statistics in Hawaii (Updated In 2024) appeared first on PangoVet.

Teaching your dog to lie down is one of several essential commands your dog should know. Of course, your pet should also come when called and know how to sit as well. But how exactly do you teach your pet commands like these? Canines are intelligent animals and can learn tricks quickly. Of course, treats make it easier, especially if you reserve them as training aids. Your dog can recognize your emotions, which can help your efforts. They will pick up on your enthusiasm and praise, so use those factors to your advantage. Many pups are eager to please, which can give them added motivation to stick with their lessons. So, if you want to teach your dog how to lie down, keep reading for a step-by-step guide. Before You Start Admittedly, lying down is an advanced command that requires patience and frequent repetition. Don’t despair if it takes your pet several attempts before the penny drops. Remember that the lessons don’t stop once your dog successfully lies down when asked; you should repeat it occasionally to reinforce the command. You should keep treats on hand during training sessions. One method of teaching this trick is rewarding your dog when they do it on their own. That helps create a positive association between the act and the treat. We recommend using a clicker as another audible cue for your pet to respond as you want them to do. Everyone in the house should also be on board with the procedure and the command word to avoid confusing your pet. You should conduct the lesson in a quiet room alone with your pet. You may find your pup more attentive if you work with your dog when they are calm or getting ready for naptime. After all, an excited pooch will be too distracted to make any connections with what you’re doing. Now that you’re a bit more mentally prepared and have some treats in hand, let’s go over the steps to teaching your dog to lie down. How to Teach a Dog to Lie Down in 7 Easy Steps 1. Begin by Encouraging Your Dog to Sit Getting your dog to sit has you halfway toward completion of the trick. If they already know this command, even better! However, make sure you reward your dog for completing the command before proceeding to the next step. The challenge of this method is keeping the actions separate in your pet’s mind. The goal is to keep sitting and lying down as distinct actions that are both rewarded when completed. Image Credit: Wasitt Hemwarapornchai, Shutterstock 2. Hold Out a Treat in Front of Your Dog Holding out a treat in front of your dog creates the anticipation necessary for action. Let your dog know it’s there, but hold on tightly to it if your pooch tries to snatch it away from you. After all, the treat has a price, and they need to work to get it. 3. Lure Your Pup to a Down Position With the Treat Trainers call this method “luring.” The object is to keep your dog focused on the treat, move it down to the floor, and encourage them to slide their body forward to get it. When your pet lies down, say the command, click your clicker if you’re using one, and reward them. Make sure to praise your pet for a job well done. We also find pets will stay in this position longer if you put the treat between their paws, as it may help forge the association. Image Credit: Artsiom P, Shutterstock 4. Repeat the Process With the Command, Clicker, and Treat Repetition is necessary to make the association. You should gradually start the process lower to the floor to help your dog understand what you’re asking. Mark your pet’s response with the command and a click. 5. Pay Attention to Your Dog’s Response We recommend paying attention to your pet’s response. If they don’t seem like they’re getting it, take a break and try again later. The hurdle you must face is teaching your dog the difference between sitting and lying down. They will likely touch their belly to the floor and jump up or go back into the sitting position. Your job is to show them that this command is different. Image Credit: Prostock-studio, Shutterstock 6. Alternatively, Start in a Standing Position You can avoid this sitting dilemma by beginning the lesson with your dog standing. Some pets may find it easier to separate the two actions if you eliminate the middle step. The process is the same, using the command, clicker, and reward. Make sure your pup’s hocks and elbows are down before giving them the treat. 7. Reward Lying Down An easy way to reinforce this command is to capture your dog in the act, and creating the association between stimulus and positive response means repeated lessons. If you see your pup in this position, you can use the command, clicker, and reward to bolster the association. Image Credit: Corey Terrill, Shutterstock What You Shouldn’t Do Positive reinforcement is the best way to train your dog, and many breeds are sensitive to harsh words. We see it often in canines with strong bonds with their owners. Therefore, we must re-emphasize patience and praise when your pooch does the right thing. We don’t recommend forcing your pup into the position; it’ll likely backfire. Your dog won’t like it and will probably balk. It may even create a negative association with the act, hampering your efforts. You shouldn’t use a leash, either. The best way is to make it a natural response to your training methods. It’s worth noting that this command usually isn’t a one-and-done response. You must repeat it over and over again until they finally make the association and learn what exactly it is that you expect from them. Final Thoughts Teaching your dog to lie down takes their training to the next level. However, it offers techniques you can use to add to the commands your pup can do. The trick is creating positive associations with cues that your pet can easily detect. That makes a clicker so valuable. Marking the action is an effective way to cement the command and the action. Plus, treats are just a really tasty bonus! Sources https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsbl.2015.0883 https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/training/liedown Featured Image Credit: Zbynek Pospisil The post How to Teach a Dog to Lie Down: 7 Effective Steps & Advice appeared first on PangoVet.

Click to Skip Ahead Reasons Why Cat Obesity Is Dangerous How to Determine if Your Cat Is Overweight Ways to Combat Obesity Importance of a Healthy Weight A large percentage of households in North America share their homes with a feline companion. A recent 2022 survey by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention suggests that 61% of owned cats are overweight, with 38% of those being classified as obese. 1 Obesity is defined as being more than 20% over the ideal body weight. This is a growing concern and needs to be addressed due to the undeniable health risk it poses. Below are seven ways cat obesity can be dangerous to your companion. The 7 Reasons Why Cat Obesity Is Dangerous 1. Increased risk of Diabetes Mellitus Diabetes mellitus is a condition defined as high levels of glucose found in the blood and urine. Type II diabetes typically occurs in cats due to inadequate insulin production, the hormone responsible for glucose regulation. Signs of diabetes mellitus include drastic weight loss, an increase in urination/water intake, and changes in appetite. Cats that have developed diabetes need help in controlling their blood glucose levels through a strict diet, weight loss, and glucose regulation, which is typically achieved through insulin therapy. Treatment of diabetes requires time and dedication from the pet owner, as most cats will receive twice-daily injections of insulin. Inadequate control of diabetes mellitus can lead to complications including secondary urinary tract infections, diabetic ketoacidosis, and poor quality of life. Cats can experience remission from diabetes with appropriate treatment and weight loss. Image Credit: Almi, Pixabay 2. Arthritis Obesity significantly increases the chances of arthritis and limits mobility. Cats that are considered obese carry, at minimum, 20% over their ideal body weight, putting added strain on their small frame, leading to boney changes. Additionally, fat releases different substances that cause inflammation, which further causes discomfort. As a patient becomes arthritic, weight loss becomes harder to achieve as patient discomfort increases. Supportive therapies like joint supplements and pain relief are suggested. It is recommended that you speak with your veterinarian to learn more information regarding possible interventions. 3. Increased Anesthetic Risk Like humans, obesity causes strain on the heart, which can lead to cardiac changes and hypertension. Additionally, obese patients often struggle with respirations due to the inability to fully expand their chest secondary to fat accumulation. These factors are associated with an increased risk of anesthetic complications 1. Obese patients will require respiratory support in the form of preoxygenation and ventilation during anesthesia. Drug dosing and selection must be adjusted in overweight cats and recovery time may be prolonged. Image Credit: jklugiewicz, Pixabay 4. Hepatic Lipidosis After food intake has decreased suddenly for a few days, whether due to diet restrictions or illness, the overweight cat’s body doesn’t know how to properly respond. Instead of using stored fat properly, the liver fails at trying to process fat, and fat enters the cells of the liver in a condition called hepatic lipidosis. Once this occurs, the liver is not able to function appropriately, and systemic ramifications are noted. Signs of hepatic lipidosis can include anorexia, lethargy, jaundice (accumulation of bilirubin causing skin and mucus membranes to turn yellow), sudden weight loss, vomiting, and death. 5. Lower Urinary Tract Disease Overweight cats are more likely to develop Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD), a broad term used to describe conditions impacting the bladder and urethra. Examples of FLUTD include idiopathic cystitis, urinary tract infections, and bladder stones. Cats experiencing FLUTD may have difficulty urinating, have blood in their urine, or urinate in inappropriate locations. Obese cats are more prone to the development of FLUTD due to their lifestyle. Generally, overweight cats are sedentary and confined indoors. Both factors lead to stress and boredom in the cat, significantly increasing the risk of FLUTD development. Fat stimulates the release of inflammatory cells, which also contributes to the development of FLUTD. Image Credit Eveline de Bruin, Pixabay 6. Constipation Constipation may occur in patients dealing with obesity due to changes in mobility. Unfortunately, obese patients often struggle to gain access to the litter box, and the inability to hold a position makes it harder to defecate. As a result, patients may not defecate regularly or completely, leading to a backup of stool. 7. Shorter Lifespan Obesity leads to a shorter life expectancy due to the above-mentioned health concerns and a perceived decrease in quality of life. Owners do not want to see their beloved companion become sedentary or struggle with day-to-day tasks. As a result, humane euthanasia may be pursued in some severe cases. How to Determine if Your Cat Is Overweight Your veterinarian will assign your pet a body condition score during a routine physical exam based on several parameters illustrated in the WSAVA body condition score chart. You can also utilize this chart to try to determine on your own the body condition of your companion. Body condition charts typically use a nine-point scale, with the ideal body condition score falling in the middle, and obesity as being at the higher end of the scale. Ways to Combat Obesity The goal for patients suffering from obesity is weight loss. This can be achieved through two main routes: diet and exercise. Your veterinarian is an excellent resource to help guide you on weight loss for your cat. It is recommended to frequently weigh your cat to ensure weight loss is gradual and to use achieved weight loss to adjust treatment plans. Exercise The idea of exercising a cat sounds impossible; however, it can be done! Simple things like placing your cat’s food bowl far away from their preferred lounging location or 1–2 minutes of laser pointer play promote activity. There are toys designed that release a few kibbles at a time when batted around by your cat that can be a fun way to encourage activity while also providing a reward. Rehabilitation programs may also be available through your veterinarian. [sc name=”hepper-hi-lo-cat-scratcher-mention-1″][/sc] Diet Your veterinarian can help guide you on ways to adjust your cat’s diet to achieve weight loss. It is very important that weight loss is gradual. No more than 0.5–2% of body weight should be lost on a weekly basis. As mentioned above, a drastic decrease in caloric intake can result in hepatic lipidosis. A diet change from a high carbohydrate diet to a high protein diet will likely be recommended. This may be achieved by switching your feline companion from a dry food to a canned diet, as these tend to be lower in carbohydrates. There are also specific veterinary diets available through your veterinarian designed to promote weight loss. Importance of a Healthy Weight Obesity poses several health risks to your feline companion. Improving your obese cat’s body condition will drastically improve your cat’s quality of life and life expectancy. Weight loss should be a gradual process and consultation with a veterinarian can help safely achieve this goal. Sources AVMA Merck Manual Pet MD Pet Obesity Prevention Vet Info VCA Hospitals VCA Hospitals VCA Hospitals VCA Hospitals VCA Hospitals Veterinary Partners Veterinary Partners Veterinary Partners VIN VIN WSAVA Featured Image Credit: Dennis van de Water, Shutterstock The post 7 Reasons Why Cat Obesity Is Dangerous (Vet Answer) appeared first on PangoVet.