<![CDATA[Animal Care Foundation of Minnesota

<![CDATA[Animal Care Foundation of Minnesota - Blog]]>Fri, 04 Sep 2026 21:34:53 -0500Weebly<![CDATA[5 Dog Breeds for Families with Children]]>Sat, 15 Aug 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.animalcarefoundation.org/blog/5-dog-breeds-for-families-with-childrenFor families with children, finding the perfect dog breed is a crucial decision. The ideal family dog should be not only friendly and affectionate but also patient and adaptable. While there are many wonderful dog breeds out there, some stand out as exceptional choices for families with kids. Remember, that an individual dogs personality and temperament are the most important aspects to consider when adopting a family dog. Dogs of any breed can demonstrate these traits, and dogs of any breed can also be aggressive. Make sure your entire family meets any dog you are planning to bring into your home before making a commitment so you can assess how the specific individual dog fits your family. In this blog, we'll explore 5 dog breeds that have been bred for friendly, responsive, and patient temperaments and are thus often well-suited to family life.

1. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers consistently top the list of family-friendly dog breeds, and for a good reason. They are known for their gentle temperament, intelligence, and enthusiasm. Labs are excellent with children, and their boundless energy makes them great playmates. They are easy to train and eager to please, making them a fantastic choice for families seeking a loving and loyal companion for their kids.

2. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are often called the "ultimate family dog." Their friendly nature and patience with children are well-known. These dogs are highly adaptable and thrive in various family settings. They're not only affectionate but also intelligent, which makes training them a breeze. Golden Retrievers love to be a part of family activities and are known for their unwavering loyalty.

3. Beagle
Beagles are small to medium-sized dogs with a big heart. They are known for their friendly, curious, and merry personalities, making them a great addition to any family. Beagles have a lot of energy and enjoy playing with kids. They are relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming and adapt well to different living situations, including apartments. Beagles are known for their loyalty and will quickly become a beloved part of your family.

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4. Bulldog
Bulldogs may look a bit intimidating, but they are actually one of the most gentle and affectionate dog breeds. They are known for their patience and love for children. Bulldogs are low-energy dogs, so they won't require as much exercise as some other breeds. This makes them a good choice for families who may not have a lot of outdoor space. Their wrinkled faces and endearing personalities will quickly win the hearts of both kids and adults.

5. Collie
Collies, often associated with the famous Lassie, are highly intelligent and loyal dogs. They have a strong herding instinct, which means they will be protective of their "herd" (your family). Collies are excellent with children and make for great playmates and guardians. They are also highly trainable and enjoy learning new tricks and commands. Their loving and devoted nature makes them an excellent choice for families with kids.

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When choosing a dog for your family, it's essential to consider factors like size, energy level, temperament, and grooming needs. The top 5 dog breeds mentioned in this blog are known for their suitability in family environments, particularly those with children. Remember that individual dogs can have unique personalities, so it's essential to spend time with a dog before bringing them into your home to ensure a good fit. Whether you choose a breed from this list or not, a well-trained and socialized dog can become a cherished member of your family, providing love, companionship, and a lifetime of wonderful memories.

Written By: Ashley Neutgens

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]]><![CDATA[How to Stop Barking at Night]]>Sun, 02 Aug 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.animalcarefoundation.org/blog/how-to-stop-barking-at-nightA peaceful night's sleep is something we all cherish, but if your dog has a habit of barking during the night, it can quickly become a frustrating and sleep-depriving experience. While dogs bark for various reasons, understanding the cause of their nighttime vocalizations is the first step toward resolving the issue. In this blog, we will explore effective strategies to help you get your dog to stop barking at night and ensure both you and your furry friend have restful nights.

1. Identify the Cause of Nighttime Barking
The first and most crucial step in addressing this issue is to understand why your dog is barking. Dogs can bark at night for several reasons, including fear, boredom, anxiety, or the need to go outside. Carefully observe your dog's behavior to pinpoint the root cause.

2. Establish a Bedtime Routine
Dogs thrive on routines, and having a consistent bedtime routine can help signal to your dog that it's time for rest. This routine should include regular feeding times, potty breaks, and playtime leading up to bedtime. Be sure to provide your dog with a comfortable, quiet sleeping area.

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3. Exercise and Mental Stimulation
A tired dog is less likely to bark at night. Ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise during the day. Long walks, playtime, and mental stimulation through puzzles and toys can help tire them out, making it easier for them to settle down at night.

4. Potty Break Before Bed
Ensure your dog has the opportunity to relieve themselves before bedtime. A full bladder may be a common reason for barking in the middle of the night. Take your dog outside for a bathroom break right before bedtime.

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5. Positive Reinforcement and Training
Use positive reinforcement to reward your dog for quiet behavior. When your dog remains silent during the night, offer treats, praise, or affection. Remember not to reward barking with attention, as this can reinforce the behavior.

6. White Noise and Calming Music
Playing white noise or calming music in the background can help drown out noises that might trigger barking. This can create a peaceful and soothing environment that encourages your dog to relax.

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Getting your dog to stop barking at night requires patience, understanding, and consistent training. Identifying the cause of the barking and addressing it through positive reinforcement, training, and a comforting bedtime routine can make a significant difference. Remember that each dog is unique, and it may take time to see improvements. With time and effort, you and your dog can enjoy peaceful and restful nights together.

Written by: Ashley Neutgens

]]><![CDATA[The 10 Most Colorful Fish in the World (and Why They Look That Way)]]>Wed, 15 Jul 2026 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.animalcarefoundation.org/blog/the-10-most-colorful-fish-in-the-world-and-why-they-look-that-wayColorful fish have fascinated people for centuries, not only for their stunning visual appeal but also for the evolutionary advantages behind their vibrant hues. Underwater, color plays a powerful role in communication, camouflage, and survival. Here are ten of the most colorful fish on Earth, and the benefits their incredible looks provide!

1. Mandarin Dragonet
Often considered the most beautiful fish in the world, the Mandarin Dragonet flaunts vibrant blues, greens, and oranges. These colors come from cellular light reflection, not pigment. Their wild patterns help them blend into coral rubble where predators struggle to focus on them.

Clown Fish, White, black, and orange. Looks just like Nemo

2. Clownfish
With bold orange bodies and white stripes, clownfish use contrasting colors to stand out inside sea anemones. Their appearance serves as a territorial signal to other clownfish and potential mates.

Blue, black, and yellow fish that looks like Dory from finding Nemo.

3. Blue Tang
This vivid blue fish with a yellow tail relies on color as a warning system. The bright blue contrasts sharply underwater, signaling readiness to defend its territory.

4. Flame Angelfish
With neon orange-red bodies and vertical black bars, Flame Angelfish use color as visual communication. Their patterns help them establish dominance hierarchies.

5. Lionfish
The lionfish’s striped pattern of reds, whites, and blacks isn't for beauty, it's a warning. Their poisonous spines require a “stay away” message, and bold coloration conveys danger effectively.

6. Parrotfish
Parrotfish change color as they mature, sometimes shifting hues multiple times in a life cycle. Their colors help identify age, sex, and breeding readiness.

7. Moorish Idol
These elegant fish display yellows, blacks, and whites that create high-contrast patterns. The coloration breaks up their outline, making them harder for predators to identify at a distance.

8. Discus Fish
Known for brilliant reds, greens, and blues, discus fish are selectively bred in the aquarium world. In the wild, their shimmering scales help reflect dappled light in Amazon waters, acting as camouflage.

9. Betta Fish
Wild bettas are already colorful, but selective breeding has enhanced their hues dramatically. Color is essential for males, who use it to intimidate rivals and attract females.

10. Rainbow Wrasse
As the name suggests, these fish display a spectrum of colors. Their hues change during mating season, allowing males to stand out and compete for mates.

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Why Are Fish So Colorful?
Color in fish typically serves one or more of the following purposes:

Camouflage:
Coral reefs are full of bright colors. Fish that seem flamboyant to us actually blend in well with their surroundings.

Communication:
Color signals dominance, fertility, or availability for mating.

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Warning:
Some fish use bright colors to advertise toxins or venom, discouraging predators.

Mimicry:
A harmless fish may evolve to resemble a more dangerous species.
In the underwater world, color is not just beauty, but survival.

If you want to learn more about these fish, check out the following websites.

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Written by: Yuepheng Yang

]]><![CDATA[Hot Paws! How to Protect Your Pooch’s Feet]]>Thu, 02 Jul 2026 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.animalcarefoundation.org/blog/hot-paws-how-to-protect-your-poochs-feetWith an air temperature of 85 degrees, the pavement can easily reach 135 degrees in the sun. For perspective, an egg can fry at 131 degrees in 5 seconds. Don’t expose your dog's bare foot pads to that pain!

Bare paws being on the hot pavement can cause burns and blisters. Not only are these painful for your dog, but they can become infected leading to an expensive trip to the veterinarian.

Luckily, with just a few easy changes, you can keep your pup from experiencing this pain. Below are 6 tips to help keep your dog’s paws from burning on hot summer walks.

1. Check the temperature of the pavement by holding your hand against it for 30 seconds. If you find it too hot, so will your dog.

2. Avoid taking your dog on walks during the hottest parts of the day when the sun is at its strongest position. At this time, the chances of burning paws is higher. Instead, choose to walk in the morning or evening when the temperatures are lower.

3. If walking in the midday heat, choose shady locations where there is lots of tree cover. The shade will keep the ground from heating up as much.

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4. Allow your dog to walk on the grass. The grass will be significantly cooler than the sidewalk or path.

5. Get your dog booties or protective salves to keep their bare feet from touching the sidewalk. While it might take your dog a bit of time to get used to them, once they figure out they get to go for a walk once they have their booties on, they’ll quickly learn to associate the boots with a positive experience. Try and start this at a cool time of day so if they throw a giant fit, they can still walk home on cool pavement. Make sure to do some research into any salves you’re thinking of purchasing to make sure they are truly safe for your pet and do what they advertise. Many of these products are unregulated and sellers can make false claims.

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It is important to also be aware of other dangers to your pet that come with the increased temperatures of summer, check out some of our other summer dog safety blogs:

-For information on helping your dog beat the heat and stay hydrated check out “Hydration and Heat Protection” https://www.animalcarefoundation.org/blog/hydration-and-heat-protection-for-dogs

-For signs to watch for that could mean your dog is dehydrated or in danger of having heatstroke check out “Heatstroke and Dehydration” https://www.animalcarefoundation.org/blog/heatstroke-and-dehydration

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Keeping these tips in mind will help keep your dog healthy this summer. You can always ask your dog's vet specific questions regarding your pets needs in the heat because every dog is different.

For more information on hot paws check out:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-paws-hot-pavement/

Written By: Helen North

]]><![CDATA[Influential LGBTQIA+ in the Animal Welfare World]]>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 05:00:00 GMThttps://www.animalcarefoundation.org/blog/influential-lgbtqia-in-the-animal-welfare-worldIn honor of pride month the Animal Care Foundation would like to acknowledge several individuals in the LQBTQIA+ community that have made meaningful impacts in animal welfare. Representation is important, making it easier for individuals to see themselves in leadership roles as well as in professional communities. These folks illuminate options that might not have seemed possible without that representation. We are proud to recognize these individuals who are an open part of the LGBTQIA+ community and make a difference in the lives of animals everyday. Currently it is estimated 15% of veterinarians in the United States identify as LGBTQIA+ and it is important they get the representation they deserve and their presence becomes the norm rather than a surprise.

Dr. Joseph Kinnarney

Dr. Joseph Kinnarney was the first openly gay president of the American Veterinary Medical Association. Elected in 2014, his main goal was to make Veterinary schooling more affordable and improve wellness within the field. He has come to recognize the importance of his presidency not just in the strides he made to improve the Veterinary Medicine field and the association, but also the impact that having an openly gay president has had on inclusion within the field. Hearing from students and young professionals who shared how his openness impacted their own lives reminded him of the importance of representation. Dr. Kinnarney came out later in life after a marriage and having two sons. When he began questioning his sexuality he began working with a therapist who helped him understand his own sexuality. His presidency allowed countless young people to see themselves as veterinarians and leaders.

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Dr. Dane Whitaker

Dr. Dane Whitaker is one of the past presidents of the Pride Veterinary Medical Community, an organization that works to create a better world for the LGBTQ veterinary community. Dr. Whitakker has been a practicing veterinarian for over 25 years as a transman. In 1994 he completed his veterinary degree at the University of Florida and in 2017 earned his Masters at UC Davis in Preventive Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Whitaker is an active and vocal member of the veterinary community advancing equity and inclusion in the field and sharing his lived experience through public speaking. His choice to actively and openly share his experiences and push for equity in the veterinary field has had an incredible impact on his community.

You can learn more about the Pride Veterinary Medical Community Here: https://pridevmc.org/.

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Jonathan Van Ness

Jonathan Van Ness is known for starring in the television show ‘Queer Eye’. Jonathan actively uses his growing platform to advocate for animal rescue and to support local shelters. He is especially passionate about helping prevent unnecessary euthanasias in rescues. Jonathan Van Ness speaks of his five cats that have helped his mental health and describes them as his “chosen family”. Jonathan pushes his community to adopt vs shop and encourages individuals to support their local rescues helping animals get the care they need and find their forever families. His passion for animal welfare shines through when he talks to his community and inspires folks to take action in their own communities.

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References
https://www.avma.org/news/kinnarney-honored-avma-award-dedicated-service-avma-family
https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/248/7/javma.248.7.724.pdf
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fresh-step-and-jonathan-van-ness-arent-kitten-about-cat-adoption-301873581.html
https://pacvet.net/dane-whitaker-dvm-mpvm/
https://www.marinemammalcenter.org/person/dane-whitaker

]]><![CDATA[Puppy Proofing Home: A Complete Guide]]>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 01:36:15 GMThttps://www.animalcarefoundation.org/blog/puppy-proofing-home-a-complete-guide

Bringing a new puppy into your home is a happy and exciting event, but it also comes with significant responsibilities. We've designed a thorough checklist to help you prepare and ensure your new friend's comfort and well-being. This guide will help you handle the early phases of puppy ownership with confidence.

1. Secure Electrical Cords and Outlets
Puppies love to chew, and electrical cords are a common target. To avert an accident:

Use cord organizers to bundle and conceal electrical cables.
Consider utilizing cable covers or protective tubing.
Use outlet covers to block unused electrical outlets.

2. Remove Toxic Plants
Many common houseplants are poisonous to dogs. Be sure to:

Locate and remove any poisonous plants, such as lilies, azaleas, and philodendrons.
Place safe plants out of reach or in locations that your puppy cannot access. Check out the ACF blog “Poisonous Plants” below for the most common household plants to watch out for.

Poisonous Plants

3. Store Hazardous Chemicals
Household cleansers, insecticides, and other chemicals can be toxic if consumed. To ensure your puppy's safety:

Keep all dangerous materials in high cabinets or lockable cupboards.
Use childproof locks on lower cabinets if required.

4. Place Little Objects Out of Reach
Puppies can choke on small objects or mistakenly consume them, resulting in significant health consequences. Emergency surgery for an intestinal blockage is emotionally fraught and expensive. Ensure:

Small objects like coins, buttons, and jewelry are kept out of reach.
Toys with tiny parts are carefully stowed.
Socks and underwear are not left on the floor where the puppy will be (it is shockingly common for puppies to eat these items and then require emergency surgery).

5. Secure Trash Bins
Trash may be a source of attraction for curious pups. To keep them from foraging in the garbage:

Use garbage cans with secure lids.
Store bins in cabinets or closets whenever possible.

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6. Block Off Restricted Areas
There may be locations in your home that you wish to keep off-limits to your dog. Use:

Baby gates to shut off staircases or rooms.
Closed doors to restrict access to specific places.
If living with others, post-it note reminders on doors are a great way to help folks remember the new requirements.

7. Provide Safe Chewing Toys
Puppies need to chew, and equipping them with suitable chew toys can help them from gnawing on inappropriate stuff. Ensure:

Chew toys are suitable for your puppy's age and size.
Toys are constructed from non-toxic materials.
Toys do not have choking hazards attached to them (like the eyes of a stuffed animal).

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8. Create a Safe Space
Creating a dedicated safe spot for your puppy can help them feel comfortable while also providing a place to relax and play. Consider:

Using a crate or playpen to establish a safe environment.
Dedicating a small room as their first introduction to their new home.
Placing their bed, toys, and water bowl in this area.

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9. Check for Escape Routes
Puppies are tiny and may easily fit through small holes. Inspect your home for possible escape routes:

Close any gaps in fences or gates.
Ensure that windows and doors are properly closed and locked.

10. Educate Your Family
Everyone in your home should be informed of the new safety precautions in place. Make sure:

Family members understand which objects are off-limits to the dog.
Everyone is cautious about keeping doors and gates closed.

Puppy proofing your house takes some effort, but it is necessary for providing a safe environment for your new furry pet. By following these steps, you can minimize the likelihood of accidents and give your puppy a happy and healthy start in their new home. Enjoy the experience of raising a puppy and the endless joy it brings!

Written by: Morgan Dunleavy

]]><![CDATA[A Beginner’s Guide to Potty Training Your Dog]]>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMThttps://www.animalcarefoundation.org/blog/a-beginners-guide-to-potty-training-your-dog

Potty training your dog can feel like a daunting task, but with the right approach, patience, and consistency, you can successfully teach your furry friend to do their business in the right place. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
1. Understanding Your Dog’s Needs

Timing is Key: Puppies generally need to go potty after waking up, eating, drinking, or playing. Pay attention to these cues.
Age Matters: Puppies can hold their bladder for about one hour per month of age. A three-month-old puppy can wait roughly three hours.

2. Choosing the Right Spot

Designate a Potty Area: Take your dog to the same spot every time they need to go. This helps them associate the area with doing their business.
Use Verbal Cues: Use a specific word or phrase like “Go potty” when you bring your dog to the designated spot. This will help them understand what’s expected.

3. Establishing a Routine

Consistent Schedule: Feed your dog at the same times every day. This helps regulate their bathroom schedule.
Frequent Breaks: Take your puppy outside frequently, especially after eating, drinking, waking up, or playing.

4. Positive Reinforcement

Reward Success: Immediately reward your dog with praise, a treat, or playtime when they go potty outside. This reinforces the behavior.
Be Patient: Accidents will happen. Don’t punish your dog. Instead, clean up the mess and continue to reinforce the correct behavior.

5. Dealing with Accidents

Stay Calm: If your dog has an accident, don’t scold them. Instead, take them outside to their potty spot.
Clean Thoroughly: Use an enzymatic cleaner to remove any scent, so your dog doesn’t associate the indoor spot with going potty.

6. Crate Training

Crate as a Tool: Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area. A properly sized crate can be a useful tool in potty training.
Introduce Gradually: Make sure your dog is comfortable in the crate and never use it as a form of punishment.

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7. Nighttime Potty Training

Limit Water Before Bed: Reduce your dog’s water intake in the evening to help them make it through the night.
Late-Night Break: Take your dog out right before bed and be prepared for a possible nighttime potty break.

8. Signs Your Dog Needs to Go

Watch for Cues: Sniffing, circling, or whining are signs that your dog may need to go out. Act quickly when you notice these behaviors.

9. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Regression: If your dog regresses, return to the basics of potty training. Consistency is key.
Marking: If your dog starts marking territory inside, address it immediately. This may require additional training or consultation with a professional.
Consistent Toileting Inside: Try putting small bowls of dog food in your puppy’s favorite pee/poop spots inside to discourage continued errors. Dogs do not like to go potty near their food sources.

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10. When to Seek Help

Consult a Vet: If your dog continues to have accidents despite consistent training, it may be time to consult your vet to rule out any medical issues.
Professional Training: Consider enlisting the help of a professional trainer if you’re struggling with the process.

ConclusionPotty training your dog requires time, patience, and consistency. By following these steps and staying positive, you’ll help your dog learn good habits that will last a lifetime. Remember, every dog is different, so be patient and adjust your approach as needed. Happy training!
For more information visit Dog Training and Behavior - Animal Care Foundation of Minnesota https://www.animalcarefoundation.org/dogtraining.html

Written by: Ashley Neutgens

]]><![CDATA[Things to Think About Before Fostering]]>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMThttps://www.animalcarefoundation.org/blog/things-to-think-about-before-fostering

Fostering a pet is one of the most meaningful ways to help animals in need, but it’s not something to jump into without thinking it through first. Social media often shows the cute moments — couch naps, walks, and happy adoption photos — but fostering also takes patience, flexibility, and a little emotional preparation. When done thoughtfully, it can be an incredibly positive experience for both the animal and the family opening their home.

Things to Think About Before Fostering
1. Your current pets come first
Bringing a new animal home can be stressful for pets that already live with you. You often don’t know a foster’s full medical or behavioral background, so slow introductions are important. In some cases, especially with cats, animals can carry illnesses or parasites that require temporary separation. Quarantining at the beginning helps keep everyone safe and gives the foster time to decompress and adjust to a new environment.

2. You might fall in love
It happens more than people expect. From personal experience, what was supposed to be temporary quickly felt like adding another family dog. Animals have a way of settling into your routines and personalities faster than you expect. Before fostering, be honest with yourself about whether you could handle saying goodbye — or whether you’re open to the possibility that the foster could become a permanent member of your family.

3. Helping kids understand
Kids tend to form strong bonds with animals very quickly. Setting expectations early makes a big difference. Explaining that the animal is staying with you while waiting for its forever home helps avoid confusion later. Framing fostering as helping another family can turn the experience into a valuable lesson about empathy, responsibility, and caring for something beyond yourself.

4. The time commitment is real
Fostering isn’t just providing food and a place to sleep. There may be vet visits, daily exercise, training reinforcement, and simply spending time with the animal so it feels safe. Many foster pets come from stressful or unfamiliar situations and need consistency and reassurance. Being present — even just sitting with them while they adjust — can make a huge difference in their confidence and behavior.

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5. Have a plan if life changes
Life is unpredictable. Work schedules shift, travel comes up, or sometimes pets just don’t get along the way you hoped. Before fostering, make sure you understand how the rescue organization handles transitions if you can no longer continue. Having a clear plan ensures the animal remains supported no matter what happens.
Why It’s Still Worth It
Even with the challenges, fostering is incredibly rewarding. You’re giving an animal a safe space to relax, learn trust again, and show their true personality outside of a shelter environment. Many animals get adopted faster because of the stability and socialization they receive in foster homes.

Fostering also leaves an impact on the people involved. It teaches patience, compassion, and the idea that helping doesn’t always mean keeping. Saying goodbye can be emotional, but it’s also a reminder that you played a real role in changing an animal’s life.

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At the end of the day, fostering isn’t just about one pet — it helps shelters free up space, supports rescue organizations, and gives animals a second chance. And while every goodbye is a little bittersweet, the feeling of knowing you helped an animal move closer to a loving forever home makes it completely worth it.
By Ethan Bernier

]]><![CDATA[So You're Thinking About Fostering an Animal...]]>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMThttps://www.animalcarefoundation.org/blog/so-youre-thinking-about-fostering-an-animal

So you're thinking about fostering?...Let me tell you a little bit about my families experience with our foster dog.
Fostering a dog is one of those things that sounds simple in theory. You open your home, provide food and love for a little while, and then help them move on to their forever family. For us, that journey started when we brought home a two-year-old rescue from Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue. We told ourselves it was temporary. Just a safe stop along the way.

The first night felt different. Vader didn’t know us. We didn’t know him. Every little noise made him look up. He walked through the house carefully, like he wasn’t sure if he was allowed to be there. We were nervous too, especially about introducing him to our family dog. The first few interactions were slow and cautious, but eventually something shifted. They started chasing each other in the yard, wrestling gently, and resting side by side like they had known each other forever. Watching that unfold felt like a small miracle.

It took a few days for Vader’s personality to really come out. At first, he was quiet and unsure. But once he realized he was safe, his happy tail barely stopped wagging. He followed us from room to room and leaned into every bit of attention. There’s something incredibly special about watching a dog relax into trust. You can see it in their eyes when they finally believe they’re home, even if it’s “temporary.”
Of course, it wasn’t all perfect. There was the afternoon he spotted a squirrel and took off through the neighborhood, reminding us that we were still learning about each other. There were small adjustments and moments of patience. Those bumps made the experience feel real and meaningful.

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We originally planned to help him find his forever home. But somewhere along the way, probably around week two, we realized something had changed. He wasn’t just staying with us anymore. He was a member of our family.
Fostering this dog didn’t just help him. It changed our family too. It reminded us how powerful stability, patience, and a little extra love can be. And sometimes, what starts as something temporary ends up becoming exactly where you’re meant to be.

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This experience for me and my family was truly rewarding. I hope you feel inspired to support a foster as we did, and I hope you are fortunate enough to make a connection with an animal as amazing as we did.

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For Assistance with more challenging foster animals: Tips to Set up Fosters for Success with Challenging Dogs
Links to more great rescue organization: The Bond Between and Midwest Animal Rescue
By Ethan Bernier

]]><![CDATA[Kitten-Proofing Your Home]]>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 15:00:00 GMThttps://www.animalcarefoundation.org/blog/kitten-proofing-your-homeIntroduction
Bringing a new kitten into your home is an exciting and joyful experience. These tiny furballs bring warmth and companionship into our lives, but they also come with a mischievous streak that can lead them into trouble. To ensure your new family member is safe and happy, it's essential to kitten-proof your home. In this blog, we'll guide you through the process of making your home a safe and welcoming environment for your curious kitten.

When you first bring your kitten home, consider gradually introducing them to your space by allowing them access to only one room at a time. If they are a bit fearful, use a room that is less traveled so they can get used to the sounds and smells of your home. Go in to visit often, even if it is just to sit in the room while they hide. Once your kitten is done hiding, you can allow them into a room that you spend a great deal of time in, this will help them bond with you as they will learn that you are a safe human. Once they have learned to trust you, you can let them into the rest of your home, though you might want to start with supervised exploration if they are extremely curious or you haven’t finished the kitten proofing listed below.

1. Remove Hazardous Items
Kittens are natural explorers and may chew on or swallow things they shouldn't. Begin by identifying and removing any potential hazards, especially those they may swallow or that are toxic. Small objects, like rubber bands, hair ties, and string should be removed to prevent your kitten from ingesting them, potentially leading to dangerous blockages.

Toxic plants are another concern. Kittens will often chew on plants and eat the pieces they bite off. Some common houseplants are incredibly toxic to our fur friends and should be removed. Others will cause our pet discomfort or pain, and unlike humans, most won’t figure out that the plant they ate is what led to the tummy ache. Learn more about the most common and dangerous plants in our toxic plant blog here. https://www.animalcarefoundation.org/blog/poisonous-plants

Chemicals are another concern, kittens and cats will lick many things, even if we don’t think they would taste good, so take a moment and ensure that no chemicals are available for them to eat (the most common issues are with bug or rodent killers and cleaners).

2. Cord Management
Kittens love to play with strings and cords, but they can pose serious dangers. Ensure electrical cords are out of reach or encased in protective covers. This prevents your kitten from chewing or accidentally pulling on them, avoiding electrical shocks and hazards as well as damage to your electronics. (Those computer chargers are PRICY!)

3. Secure Cabinets and Drawers
Kittens are known for their knack for finding hidden treasures in cabinets and drawers. Be prepared to invest in childproof locks to keep curious paws out of places they shouldn't be if you end up with a kitten who opens cabinets. This also helps avoid accidents or them getting stuck. While these are not necessary for all cats, there are a few who will need the additional deterrence.

4. Cover Trash Bins
Kittens are experts in rummaging through trash. To avoid messes and potential ingestion of harmful substances, keep your trash cans securely covered or behind a closed door.

5. Anchor Heavy Furniture
Kittens love to climb and jump on furniture. To prevent accidents, anchor heavy items like bookshelves and TVs to the wall. This also keeps your kitten from knocking over expensive electronics. Most furniture comes with wall anchors for toddler protection, these devices work for kitten proofing as well.

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6. Provide Safe Toys and Scratching Posts
Kittens need mental and physical stimulation. Offer a variety of safe toys, scratching posts, and interactive playtime to keep your furry friend entertained and prevent them from seeking entertainment in potentially hazardous ways. Consider rotating toys every couple weeks, this will help your cat remain mentally stimulated with the removal and reintroduction of different toys.

7. Litter Box Accessibility
Make sure your kitten can access the litter box easily. A kitten's bladder is small, and they need to relieve themselves frequently. Keep the litter box clean and accessible to encourage proper litter box use. If you have more than one cat, you should provide additional boxes and locations to keep dominance issues from preventing litter box access. It is recommended to have 1 more box than you do cats (so if you have 2 cats, have 3 litter boxes). Place them on each floor of your home, or if you live in an apartment try to provide boxes in at least two locations.

8. Check Heating and Cooling Systems
Ensure that your heating and cooling systems are safe for your kitten. Block access to heating vents, and use screens or barriers around radiators and fireplaces to prevent burns. This includes stove tops, especially electric ones which remain hot after they are turned off.

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Conclusion
Kitten-proofing your home is a vital step in ensuring your new pet's safety and happiness. By identifying and addressing potential hazards, securing dangerous areas, and providing a stimulating environment, you can create a space where your kitten can thrive and grow into a healthy and happy adult cat. With a little preparation, you can enjoy the company of your furry friend while keeping them out of harm's way.

Written by: Ashley Neutgens

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