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When the weather takes a turn for the worse, it's not only humans who feel the impact—our furry friends do too. Rain, snow, or extreme temperatures can make outdoor activities challenging for pets, leaving them restless and bored indoors. However, with a bit of creativity and some thoughtful planning, you can turn those gloomy days into opportunities for quality time with your four-legged companions. Here are some paw-some ideas to keep your pet entertained indoors during bad weather.  1. Interactive Toys: Invest in interactive toys that engage your pet's mind and body. Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing toys, and squeaky plushies can provide hours of entertainment. These toys not only stimulate your pet mentally but also keep them physically active, preventing boredom-related behaviors. 2. Indoor Fetch: Just because you can't go outside doesn't mean you can't play fetch. Choose a soft, lightweight ball or toy and play fetch in a pet-friendly area indoors. Be mindful of fragile items and clear a safe space to avoid any accidental collisions.  3. Hide and Seek: This classic game isn't just for kids—pets love it too! Hide your pet's favorite toys or treats around the house and encourage them to find them. This game taps into their natural instincts and keeps them entertained while offering mental stimulation. If you start with a more smelly treat and in a limited space they will catch on more quickly. 4. Tug-of-War: A simple game of tug-of-war can be an excellent way to keep your pet active and engaged. Use a sturdy rope toy and make sure to play in an area where there's enough space. Always be mindful of your pet's size and strength to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience and don’t pull too hard or it can impact their teeth over time (think about how braces work but the tug of war can have a negative impact).  5. Enrichment Feeding: Turn mealtime into a mentally stimulating activity by using puzzle feeders or hiding small portions of food around the house. This not only makes your pet work for their food but also adds an element of excitement to their daily routine. You don’t need to go out and buy expensive items. An old cereal box with holes punched in it works just as well! 6. Teach New Tricks: Bad weather days provide an excellent opportunity to work on training and teaching your pet new tricks. Use positive reinforcement, treats, and praise to make the learning process enjoyable for your furry friend.  When Mother Nature decides to keep you indoors, don't let it rain on your pet's parade. With a bit of creativity and some thoughtful planning, you can turn bad weather days into memorable indoor adventures for you and your beloved companions. By engaging your pet's mind and body, you'll not only keep them entertained but also strengthen the bond you share. So, whether it's pouring rain or snowing outside, you and your pet can weather the storm together, creating lasting memories along the way.
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 Join us for our Annual Animal Care Foundation Pet Costume Contest! It is easy to enter and to vote. Just follow the directions below. 1. Share your pets costumed photo with us between now and Monday October 26th through:
Include your pet's name, a description of their costume, and social handle's we should tag during voting. 2. Like and follow the ANimal Care Foundation of Minnesota page. 3. Ask your friends and family to vote for your monster/alien/ghost on Facebook and Instagram from October 27th-30th. To vote, they simply like the photo of your pet. Voting can be done on both platforms. 4. Check in to see the winner as you chow down on your candy October 31st. First Place: $25 Aldi Gift Card and your pet will be featured on our Facebook and Instagram pages and our blog. Second Place: Your pet will be featured on our Facebook and Instagram pages and our blog. Third Place: Bragging rights.  For 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.   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.  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  A 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.  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.  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.  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
Colorful 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.  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.  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.  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.  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.
 Written by: Yuepheng Yang
With 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.  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.  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  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
In 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.  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/.  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.  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  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:
Many common houseplants are poisonous to dogs. Be sure to:
 3. Store Hazardous Chemicals Household cleansers, insecticides, and other chemicals can be toxic if consumed. To ensure your puppy's safety:
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:
Trash may be a source of attraction for curious pups. To keep them from foraging in the garbage:
 6. Block Off Restricted Areas There may be locations in your home that you wish to keep off-limits to your dog. Use:
Puppies need to chew, and equipping them with suitable chew toys can help them from gnawing on inappropriate stuff. Ensure:
 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:
 9. Check for Escape Routes
Puppies are tiny and may easily fit through small holes. Inspect your home for possible escape routes:
Everyone in your home should be informed of the new safety precautions in place. Make sure:
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  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
 4. Positive Reinforcement
 7. Nighttime Potty Training
 10. When to Seek Help
For more information visit Dog Training and Behavior - Animal Care Foundation of Minnesota https://www.animalcarefoundation.org/dogtraining.html Written by: Ashley Neutgens  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.  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.  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 |
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