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Dog News

Fun Facts About Dogs

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For dog owners, our pups are more than just pets—they’re loyal friends, companions, and family members. Naturally, we want to know as much about them as possible. So, whether you’re a seasoned dog lover or just starting your pet journey, here are some fun dog facts.

Dogs’ Noses Are Wet for a Reason
A dog’s wet nose isn’t just cute—it’s functional. Dogs secrete a thin layer of mucus to help absorb scent chemicals. They often lick their noses to “taste” these smells, which enhances their ability to process and identify scents.

Dogs See Some Colors, Not Just Black and White
Contrary to popular belief, dogs aren’t completely colorblind. While they don’t see the full spectrum like humans, they can see shades of blue and yellow. Plus, their superior night vision gives them an edge in low-light situations.

Dogs Have a Paw Preference
Like humans, dogs can be right- or left-pawed. A study involving over 17,000 dogs found that about 74% had a preferred paw, with more being right-pawed than left.

Bloodhounds’ Noses Are So Accurate, They’re Used in Court
Bloodhounds can follow scent trails over 130 miles long and up to 300 hours old. Their tracking abilities are so reliable that their scent evidence is admissible in court.

Dogs Sweat Through Their Paws
Dogs primarily regulate body temperature by panting, but they also sweat—just through their paw pads. They have merocrine glands in their feet for sweating and apocrine glands that release unique scents for identification.

Dogs Have a Super Sense of Smell
Dogs have around 300 million scent receptors in their noses (compared to our 6 million). They also use a secondary system called the accessory olfactory system to detect pheromones, giving them incredible scent-detecting abilities.

A Dog’s Nose Print Is One of a Kind
Just like human fingerprints, every dog has a unique nose print. Some companies even offer dog nose print ID services for this reason!

Why Dogs Kick After “Going”
When your dog kicks up grass after doing their business, they’re not trying to cover it—they’re marking territory. Their paw pads release pheromones during this backward “scraping” motion, leaving a lasting scent behind.

Dogs Have a Third Eyelid
Dogs have an extra eyelid called the nictitating membrane. It helps clear debris from their eyes, distributes tears, and even supports immune defense.

Dogs Bring Out the Best in Us
Beyond all these facts, one truth stands out: dogs enrich our lives every day. Their loyalty, love, and quirky habits make them truly special companions.

Benefits of Owning More than One Dog or Cat

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Animal lovers such as this blogger find deep companionship in the company of multiple pets. When you rescue shelter pets, you become immune to the work, time, care, and expense that owning multiple pets requires.

So when I tell people how many dogs and cats I have, their expressions and comments vary from-I don’t know how you manage that many pets to you’re crazy-and that expression mostly comes from my kids.

It’s true that having more than one dog or cat is a lot more of everything! More work, more fur, more food, more waste, more money to spend on doggie daycare, boarding, grooming, veterinarian expenses and so forth.

But I find the real joy in multiple pet ownership outweighs any of the negatives.

Agree or not, here are some reasons for owning more than one dog or cat; and these reasons also benefit your dog or cat.

Why Owning More Than One Pet Is Worth It

Adopting more than one pet may require extra effort, but the rewards are well worth it. If your dog or cat enjoys the company of others, having a second pet can lead to a happier, healthier household for everyone—animals and humans alike. Pets benefit from companionship, and their owners often experience more joy and stronger emotional bonds.

Benefits for Pets: Companionship and Activity

One of the biggest advantages of having two pets is that they keep each other company. Whether you’re at work, asleep, or running errands, your pets can play, rest, or explore together. This helps reduce boredom and loneliness, which are common in single-pet homes.

Pets also tend to be more active when they have a playmate. Dogs will chase, wrestle, and run together, while cats may stalk and pounce as part of natural hunting behavior. This kind of interaction often leads to more daily exercise than a human alone can provide. Staying active is important for preventing health problems as pets age.

Each pet also brings its own personality to the household. One might be quiet and affectionate, while the other is playful and full of energy. This variety can be fun and rewarding for everyone in the home. Pets can also bond with different members of the family, strengthening connections all around.

Health Benefits for Owners

Pets aren’t just good for each other—they’re good for us, too. Owning a cat or dog has been linked to lower stress levels, reduced feelings of loneliness, and even improved heart health. When you pet or cuddle an animal, your body releases oxytocin (the “love hormone”) and reduces cortisol (the stress hormone). This can lead to lower blood pressure and a calmer mood.

Having two pets can double these moments of connection. Whether one is curled up next to you or both are playing across the room, it brings a steady sense of companionship. Pets can also help you stay more active. Dogs need walks and playtime, and even cats like to chase toys or explore, encouraging more movement and engagement in your daily life.

You might also find yourself more social with multiple pets. Animals often attract attention when you’re out and about, making it easier to meet new people. They’re natural conversation starters and can help you feel more connected to others.

Stronger Bonds and Lifelong Joy

The bond between two pets can be heartwarming to witness. Watching them groom each other, curl up together, or play chase through the house adds joy to your home. Their friendship is pure and strong—and it often mirrors the bond they share with you.

Of course, adopting more than one pet means making sure they’re compatible. Introduce them gradually and provide separate spaces at first. With patience and care, most pets will adjust and learn to enjoy each other’s company.

In the end, having more than one dog or cat often means more laughter, love, and connection. Two pets can enrich each other’s lives—and yours—every single day.

Considering adding another dog or cat to your household? Visit your local shelter, rescue group, or responsible breeder.

You Asked, We’re Answering! Here are the Responses to Some of the Questions You Asked On Our Social Media Pages

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In today’s Ask The Ranch blog, we are going to answer some of the questions we get asked on our social media pages.

Our Ranch professional dog handlers understand you want to see your dogs or cats while they are in our care, and we do our best to feature as many of our adorable guests as we can!

Why isn’t my dog featured on today’s video or pictures?

Our primary focus is on your pets’ health, happiness, well-being, and welfare, and that sometimes takes us away from adding to your pet’s social influencer status! We try our best to spotlight as many pets as possible not only to make you feel comforted, but to also share how much fun the dogs have while in our care.

It seems so unfair that we are the only ones who get to see the dogs zooming, biting at the water, resting on each other, or simply choosing that one hiding spot for some serious R&R.

And while some dogs just love to have the camera on them, some of your fur babies are camera shy!

But don’t despair! We love to post the images and videos on our Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business Listings, so keep looking. Some days your pet will be fully featured and on other days, you will see them streak by!

Just know that one fact is certain, while under our care, your pet is safe, happy, and loved!

Is it safe for our young, little, shy, bashful, (insert concerned adjective) dog to be in that playgroup?

We temperament test all of our dogs and fit them in the right playgroup by age, activity level, size, experience, personality. We typically start out by separating the dogs by size, but some owners wonder if a young pup is safe with bigger, older dogs.

We want to reassure you that we are constantly watching to make sure that each dog feels safe and fits in with the energy levels of the other dogs. We have had instances where the smalls have more energy than some of the bigs and some pups just want to run with the big dogs!

Our experienced professionals take into account each dog’s personality, energy, age, size, and needs to ensure a positive and rewarding daycare or dog boarding experience. We want all dogs to want to return and have you feel confident that your best friend is treated just as we would want our dogs to be treated.

Can You Help My Dog Be More Social? I Want Him to Play with Other Dogs

We understand the fun of a playgroups, and we also understand some dogs take longer to warm up than others. That is why we make sure to do a thorough temperament testing with your dog. Dogs have unique personalities and depending on their background or experience, they may need some additional assistance to be added to our social playgroups.

We offer dog training services with professional trainers who can help your dog with obedience, behavioral issues, and socialization skills. Since no two dogs are the same, it’s best you speak to one of our trainers about your particular pooch!

If you are interested in booking a session or one of our stay and train packages, please register here!

November is National Senior Pet Month

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November is National Senior Pet Month, a month devoted to honoring senior pets, focusing on their needs, and raising awareness for senior animals who need homes.

According to Dr. Heidi Lobprise of Senior Pet Advocates, pets are living longer due to the advancements in veterinary care, foods, and medicines. As pets age, their needs change, so the month of November has been dedicated to drawing attention to our beloved senior pets.

At What Age is a Pet Considered a Senior?

The age a pet becomes a senior varies according to their size and breed. However, the average age of a senior dog is determined to be around 7 years while a cat is considered a senior at 11 years of age (source).

By this age, pets are calmer and more settled into a routine. The days of chewing apart furniture, shoes, toys, clothes, plants, and anything they can get into their mouths is over, and senior pets are more satisfied being on a comfortable bed alongside their owners and partner pals.

Medical Needs for Senior Pets

As pets age, their needs change and senior pets require additional care including, but not limited to, “…more frequent examinations, diagnostics, and nutritional and behavioral counseling.”

Senior pets are more prone to developing certain diseases and conditions as they age. These include:

  • Arthritis: A frequent cause of chronic pain in older pets, arthritis occurs when a joint becomes unstable, leading to abnormal bone movement.
  • Cancer: A leading cause of death in senior pets, cancer involves an overgrowth of cells that can overwhelm the immune system.
  • Dental disease: This painful condition often goes unnoticed in senior pets due to its gradual progression.
  • Kidney disease: Common in older dogs, this condition can result in incontinence and changes in body odor.
  • Heart disease: Especially prevalent in small senior dogs, untreated heart disease can lead to congestive heart failure.
  • Cognitive dysfunction: Similar to Alzheimer’s or dementia in humans, this condition affects mental function in older dogs.
  • Diabetes: A common issue in older pets, diabetes occurs when the body can no longer properly process glucose.
  • Cataracts: A frequent condition in older pets, cataracts cause the eye’s lens to become cloudy, creating a whitish appearance over the eye. Cataracts can result from trauma or infection and may lead to blindness if untreated.
  • Glaucoma: A common issue in senior dogs, especially in certain breeds. There are two types: primary glaucoma, caused by poor drainage of eye fluid, and secondary glaucoma, which occurs from physical injury to the eye.
  • Corneal Ulcers: A genetic condition that typically affects middle-aged or older dogs. If untreated, corneal ulcers can lead to vision loss.

It’s crucial to monitor any changes in your pet’s behavior or signs of health issues and consult a veterinarian promptly. Many conditions can be treated or managed, helping to enhance the quality of life for senior pets.

Adopt a Senior Pet

Our shelters are full of senior pets looking for homes. If you could fill your heart and home with a senior pet, you would be giving a displaced dog or cat a second or third chance at life.

Senior pets don’t need as much time and attention as younger pets, are more settled and some say, more appreciative. Their personalities are already developed, some are already trained, and all you have to provide is food, shelter, water, love, and companionship. It’s a win-win for all!

If you are looking to adopt a senior, check your local rescue organizations and shelters. Bring home a Senior Dog and do your part during National Senior Pet Month.

The New Trend in Real Estate is Pet-Friendly Homes

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Approximately 66% of U.S. households own a pet according to a 2024 report by Forbes magazine. With more adults owning pets than having children, it may not be a surprise that the new trend in real estate is pet-friendly homes.

What are the pet owners looking for in pet-friendly homes? What should you consider adding if you want to attract owners of pets? Here are some tips to help you sell your home in this pet-friendly housing market.

Exterior Features for Pet-Friendly Homes

This new trend drives the buying force in real estate for both buyers and sellers. Buyers are looking for homes with the following exterior pet-friendly features: 

  • Fenced in backyards, yards with a special place just for a dog or cat, or side yards for dogs to relieve themselves are some of the most popular exterior features. 
  • Pet-friendly landscapes including bark, grass, non-poisonous plants and shrubs, gravel or small rocks can serve as a safe place for your pet to play and relieve itself. Plants that repel fleas such as mint, lavender, or rosemary and edible features such as strawberries, blueberries, and oat grass are also smart choices.
  • Water features for animals to keep cool and drink water bring additional interest to a potential homebuyer. 
  • Sand pits, meant for dogs to dig in, provide exercise and fun for canine companions.
  • Catios for cats to enjoy the outside while staying safe in an enclosed environment
  • Paths or walkways for dogs to travel around the yard without trampling bushes or grass.

Interior Features for Pet-Friendly Homes

Pet owners who are interested in purchasing a home are looking for the following pet-friendly interior features:

  • Pet-friendly materials such as flooring that is hardy, robust, and scratch resistant are popular for their ability to hide the claw marks from excited pups. Vinyl makes for easy clean ups for spills or accidents. 
  • Built-in features under the stairs or in bookcases make great spots for dogs to sleep or nap.
  • Hidden food or watering stations are popular for their ability to make the most of space or hide unsightly food dishes.
  • Cleaning stations designed just for pets can be a bonus for anyone wanting to save time and money. These stations are designed to make bathing a breeze and clean up even easier. 
  • Mud rooms that have a small, enclosed space to wipe off dirty paws and shoes after a romp in the rain or mud before entering the house are popular among all homeowners.
  • Smaller carpeted areas make cleaning and repair easier, faster, and cheaper. 

Investing in a Pet Friendly Home

If you are looking to purchase a pet friendly home, consider the savings you can put toward a vacation, upgrade, or higher mortgage payment by not having to put in these features yourself.

If you can’t find a pet-friendly home that has the features you are looking for, consider purchasing a home that may be below your purchase price so you can add these features on your own. Personalizing your own space can be a fun DIY home improvement project. 

Connect with The Gamache Team for all of Your Buying and Selling Needs

Whether or not you are thinking of selling your home or buying a new one, I’d appreciate you considering me as your professional Real Estate Consultant. If you have any questions about the market or real estate in general or need a reference for your home, I am offering my knowledge to you.

August is National Dog Month!

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August celebrates Man’s Best Friend with a month picked just for them, and we want to make sure you dog is celebrated! We’re including some delicious dog treats you can make from home and some

Pumpkin Popsicles for Dogs

Pumpkin is a very good treat for dogs and is often used to settle upset stomachs. This simple-to-make popsicle treat uses just a few ingredients and is packed full of nutrients. For directions to make this tasty delicacy, click this link.

Pamper Your Pooch with a Canine Massage

Canine massage promotes relaxation and trust, improves circulation, mobility and healing, and reduces pain. The bonding between a human and a dog can increase significantly with touch, and dogs, like humans, enjoy the soothing touch of a massage.

For tips on how to massage your dog, click here.

Take Your Dog on Vacation with You

Whatever type of vacation you enjoy, consider adding your family dog to the fun! Whether you’re camping, taking an RV across the country, glamping, or staying in an elegant resort, bringing your dog with you adds fun for both you and your dog. Many Airbnbs and VRBOs allow dogs, most with a small pet deposit.

For a list of dog friendly hotels in California, click here.

Staycate with Your Dog in August for National Dog Month

Consider taking your dog on a fun outing with you as you staycate with your dog in August for National Dog Month. Livermore is filled with fun, dog-friendly places to staycate.

Do you like wineries? Check out the list of wineries that allow dogs. Are you a foodie? Bring your dog along. There are a number of pet friendly restaurants that allow your dog and have water and treats.

Are you a beer, ice cream or coffee lover? Try Livermore’s beer, ice cream or coffee trails.

Ready to walk off that dessert or meal? There are so many fun hiking trails that you and your dog can enjoy. Take a dip in the water after a long hike at Lake Del Valle’s beach area for dogs.

DIY Dog Toys

Dog toys don’t have to cost you a fortune! In fact, the better a toy can make your dog use its brain, the better the dog will sleep and the more fun it will have!

Consider making your dog an obstacle course, licking mat, agility course, or a sniffing garden.

Here is a video of fun and inexpensive DIY projects for you and your dog using some items you may have around the home.

Whatever toy you make will sure to make your dog very happy as it gets to spend time with you. And time spent with its human is the best way to celebrate your dog during National Dog Month.