bullensee tour

Von Rotenburg zu den Bullenseen

• Einkehrmöglichkeit

Tourenbeschreibung

Durch das Wasserreich im Süden Rotenburgs: Die Wanderung verläuft durch die Rotenburger Innenstadt und führt dann in den Süden. Flussniederungen, Wälder, Wiesen, Moore und die beiden Bullenseen sorgen für Abwechslung. Der Erlebnisgarten des Hartmannshofs zieht Kinder wie Erwachsene an. Die gut ausgeschilderte Strecke ist einer von mehreren »Nordpfaden« (einem lokalen Wanderwege-Netz) und durchgehend zusätzlich mit „Wasserreich“ markiert. Auch die Kreisstadt Rotenburg (Wümme) will im Rahmen der Tour entdeckt werden, sie verfügt über etliche sehenswerte Bauten, darunter die neugotische Stadtkirche. Idyllisch ist zudem das Speicherviertel am Stadtstreek.

Höhenprofil

Bergwelten-tipp.

Diese Tour stammt aus dem Rother Wanderführer „Rund um Hamburg: Holsteinische Schweiz bis Lüneburger Heide“ von Michael Schnelle, erschienen im Rother Bergverlag.  Der komplette Guide ist auch in der  Rother Touren App für Android  oder  iPhone  erhältlich.

Anfahrt & Parken

Öffentliche verkehrsmittel.

Ausgangspunkt: Bhf. Rotenburg (Wümme) an der Strecke Hamburg–Bremen.

Weitere Tourenempfehlungen

Von Undeloh zum Wilseder Berg

Ith-Hils-Weg Etappe 1: Coppenbrügge - Humboldtsee

Rombergpark und Hohensyburg

Harzer-Hexen-Stieg - Etappe 2: Vom Bärenbrucher Teich nach Torfhaus

Bergwelten entdecken, unterkünfte.

• Möckernbräu
• Topf & Beet
• Ferienwohnung „Liegeplatz“

Wanderung um’m Bullensee rum

Ich weiß gar nicht, wie ich auf den Bullensee in Rotenburg (Wümme) kam. Vielleicht, weil ich ihn von Verwandtenbesuchen in meiner Kindheit noch kenne, und weil man sich im fortgeschrittenen Alter mehr an die Vergangenheit erinnert. Oder, weil ich irgendwo (war es bei Wanderklaus auf Instagram?) gelesen habe, dass es dort einen schönen Wanderweg gibt. Jedenfalls ist der Bullensee nicht so weit von Bremen entfernt, und Wasser ist immer gut.

Vor Ort wurde ich ganz schön überrascht. Denn es gibt die mir bislang unbekannten Nordpfade: Unverlaufbar beschilderte und – jedenfalls in diesem Fall – top gepflegte Flachland-Wanderrouten in der Region. Mein Weg „um’m Bullensee rum“ hat sogar einen Namen: Dör’t Moor – die Große Moorrunde. Und hat viel mehr mit Moor (nämlich dem Großen und Weißen Moor) als mit dem Bullensee selbst zu tun, den es einmal groß und einmal klein gibt.

Wenn man das Schild nicht nur fasziniert fotografiert, sondern auch studiert, dann startet man die Flachland-Wanderung links herum. Wir, denn der Mann kam mit, liefen den Weg gegen den Uhrzeigersinn. Was aber auch nicht schlecht ist, und ebenso gut beschildert. Eventuell ist die Dramaturgie etwas anders, und der Rastplatz kommt ein wenig zu früh. Egal. Auf geht es auf eine Tour für Genießer: nur 10,3 km, 3,5 Stunden, für durchschnittliche Kondition gut geeignet.

Von Moorseen und Heidelandschaften

Die Tour startet am Großen Bullensee, in dem man auch wunderbar baden kann. Da es dort einen großen Parkplatz gibt macht es Sinn, sich Badesachen und ein schönes Picknick ins Auto zu packen, um sich am Ende zu erfrischen und zu stärken. Wir waren Ende September bei herrlichem Wetter da, dann ging das mit dem Baden wirklich noch; das war direkt vor der Schietwetter-Phase. Wobei: Das Schietwetter brauchte die Natur dringend, denn ihr seht auf den Fotos einen gefühlt nur halb gefüllten Bullensee und ein trockenes Moor …

Überall an der Strecke gibt es Tafeln vom NABU , die über die Natur, Flora und Fauna aufklären. Wenn man die alle liest, dann braucht man glatt eine Stunde länger.

Der Kleine Bullensee ist nicht zum Baden geeignet, er gehört ganz der Tierwelt und ist wirklich idyllisch.

Danach öffnet sich die Landschaft. Vor wenigen Wochen, zur Heide-Hauptblüte, muss das noch schöner ausgesehen haben. Inzwischen war die Heide fast verblüht, die Bienen waren scheinbar aus ihren Stöcken ausgezogen.

Von Wäldern und Gräbern

Immer wieder (die Fotos sind nicht chronologisch sortiert) geht es durch Waldabschnitte. Über normalerweise nasse Stellen führen Stege oder Brücken, viele Wegabschnitte sind mit Holzhäckseln präpariert. Der ganze Weg ist wirklich super gepflegt. Bei der Sonne waren diese schattige Abschnitte sehr angenehm, und das Lichtspiel ist halt immer wieder klasse.

Die Grabhügel aus der Jungsteinzeit – fünf von ursprünglich elf sind noch erhalten – sind vor Ort gut auszumachen. Auf dem Foto hier erschließt sich die Bedeutung des Hügels nicht sofort.

Am Schafstall Spieker bietet sich eine Pause an. Man kann sich dorthin auch ein Picknick bestellen, eine super Idee. Dort stehen allerlei Gerätschaften rum, und es gibt schöne Sitzgelegenheiten. Übrigens gibt es auf der ganzen Tour Bänke, so dass man sich immer wieder ausruhen und besonders schöne Ausblicke genießen kann. Was noch perfekter wäre, das wäre so eine geschwungene Liegebank, wie ich sie aus den Bergen kenne; dann kann man fein die Füße hochlegen.

Von Flora und Fauna

Das Große und Weiße Moor ist ein Naturschutzgebiet und gehört zu den besonders gut erhaltenen Hochmooren Niedersachsens. Hier gibt es eine spezielle Pflanzenwelt.

Und was wäre ein Artikel von mir ohne Verweis auf Bier? Überraschend entdeckten wir den Gagelstrauch . Man wurde geradezu aufgefordert, ein Blatt zu zerreiben und daran zu riechen, das war wirklich klasse. Was für ein Duft! Früher wurden die Blätter oft an Stelle von Hopfen in den Biersud gegeben. Der Hopfen kam ja sowieso erst später auf. Blöd nur, dass Gagel auch giftig sein soll. Sicher macht die Dosis auch hier das Gift, sonst würde auf Jütland nicht heute noch Gagel-Schnaps hergestellt werden. Gagel wurde am Niederrhein auch Grut genannt, daher stammt der Begriff Grutbier . Ein Bier, das ich auch immer noch einmal brauen möchte, mit allerlei Kräuterzeug. Mit Kräutern braue ich ja häufiger, habe aber noch nie den Hopfen damit ersetzt. Wenn ihr mal reines Wildkräuter-Bier (das in Deutschland nicht Bier genannt werden darf) ausprobieren möchtet, dann testet doch mal G.broi von Pia.

Bei manchen Pflanzen am Wegesrand muss man etwas genauer hinsehen, die sind nicht so groß. Hier ein paar herbstliche Eindrücke von der gesamten Wanderung.

Und dann gibt es natürlich auch die Tiere. Schafe sind immer wieder schön, diese natürlichen Landschaftspfleger. Oder die schwarzen Rinder, die Rasse habe ich vergessen. Der Bulle (der dem Bullensee alle Ehre machte) war ganz schön platt. Die Jungtiere und schwangeren Kühe lassen darauf schließen, dass er ordentlich mit seiner Fortpflanzung zu tun hatte, und jetzt einen auf Pascha macht. Auf jeden Fall waren die Rinder ganz schön neugierig, fast alle kamen um zu schauen, wer denn da so lang läuft.

Von Wegen und Aussichten

Die Wege sind wirklich gut beschildert, in beide Richtungen. Und gut zu laufen. Sehr gut gefallen hat mir der geringe Anteil an Asphalt und die – für mich überraschend – abwechslungsreiche Natur.

Eigentlich am Anfang der Route – und für uns am Ende – gibt es einen Moor-Lehrpfad. Der Torfweg auf dem folgenden Bild gehört dazu. Dieser Lehrpfad macht am Anfang mehr Sinn, wenn man noch nicht so lange unterwegs ist. 3,5 Stunden sind zwar nicht viel, aber wir hatten keine Pause gemacht und einen wahnsinnigen Kaffeedurst. Zudem war der ganze Weg super ruhig, in großen Teilen waren wir alleine. Und dann am Lehrpfad – eine Schulklasse oder so. Um es diplomatisch auszudrücken: Es war zu lebendig dort. Ein Grund, noch einmal wieder zu kommen. Vor allem auch dann, wenn das Moor nicht trocken ist und der Schwingboden seinem Namen alle Ehre macht.

Na ja, eine Rast machten wir doch, eine ganz kleine. Auf der hohen Bank, mit Blick auf das Moor. Das war wohl der schönste Platz auf der Route. Der Platz, an dem ich erst richtig dachte: Hach, wie schön das hier ist. Den schönsten Platz hatte aber das junge Glück neben uns, das die ganze Zeit knutschte und kuschelte. Die Bänke waren übrigens so weit auseinander, dass jeder seine Ruhe hatte und den anderen nicht direkt beobachten konnte, wirklich schön. Normalerweise soll man nicht auf diesen grün-gelben Bewuchs schauen, sondern auf Wasser mit Totholz drin. Da zeigt sich auch der Klimawandel. Wo das Moor doch so immens wichtig ist für unser Klima … Auch an den Aussichtspunkten waren wir immer alleine, und konnten so ungestört die wunderbaren Ausblicke genießen. Nur Vögel sahen wir nicht, dafür hatten wir aber wohl auch zu wenig Geduld.

Dann kamen wir zurück zum Bullensee. Mit Bude, die Kaffee und Kuchen für uns hatte, und gerade noch zwei Stühle. Ein Traum. Wenn man richtig herum läuft, dann kann man am Ende der Route gut einen Abstecher zum Hartmannshof machen. Das Café ist auch sehr schön, wir fuhren dort mit dem Auto hin, auf ’ne Limo. Hätte ich Salat oder anderes Gemüse haben wollen, dann hätte ich das dort auch gleich kaufen können, wie praktisch. Die Hühner hörten dort Radio. Wie sich Heavy Metal wohl auf die Qualität der Eier auswirkt?

Am Schluss liefen wir dann noch über den eigentlichen Grund des Sees. Links im Panorama ist noch der Steg zu erahnen, der die Wasserkante nicht erreichte. Das war echt kein schönes Bild. Insofern kann man sagen: Endlich Regen, Regen, Regen! Und man kann sagen: Die Gegend kann tatsächlich einiges.

Hier ist die Route der großen Moorrunde – in der eigentlich vorgesehenen Richtung. Nicht von mir eingestellt, ich habe es mir leicht gemacht und diese vom Touristikverband übernommen. Man kann die Runde auch auf 7,5 km und ca. 2,5 Stunden Gehzeit abkürzen, indem man in der Mitte den Butterweg nimmt, den ihr in der Karte leicht erkennen könnt. Dann heißt es, na wie? Kleine Moorrunde. Und es gibt auch noch kleinere Touren, die wirklich nur um’m Bullensee rum gehen. Alle Varianten findet ihr beim beim NABU Rotenburg . Und den NORDPFADE-Tourenbegleiter bekommt ihr beim Touristikverband.

Weitere Wanderwege, Beschreibungen, gpx-Daten und mehr findet ihr auf der Seite nordwaerts.de .

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2 Antworten

Anke von Kolczynski

Hallo Ingrid, heute habe ich den Bericht über den Bullensee gelesen. Einfach super. Meine Kindheit.. Wir waren früher immer da zu schwimmen usw. Viele Grüße Anke

schaedelmaedel

Hallo Anke, es freut mich dass dir mein Bericht gefällt und du an schöne Kindheitstage erinnert wirst. Viele Grüße, Ingrid

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Großer Bullensee: Die schönsten Wanderwege

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Großer Bullensee Ticket Price, Hours, Address and Reviews

• Lower Saxony
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• Things To Do In Kirchwalsede

Großer Bullensee

• Tags: Landmarks, Natural, Lakes

Großer Bullensee Reviews & Ratings

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ONLINE REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED.

ON-SITE REGISTRATION ON THE DAY OF RIDE IS AVAILABLE FOR $50 AND OPENS AT 6:30 AM AT CENTENNIAL HIGH SCHOOL.

Centennial High School (201 South Hurst Rd., Burleson, TX 76028) **  Enter EAST PARKING LOT OFF RENFRO  ** Staggered starts beginning at 8:00 a.m. (see Routes below) (No late starts after 7-Mile Route start - course closes at 2:00 p.m.)

NO PETS or ALCOHOL allowed on the Premises.

Order your official 2024 BTX Honey Tour jersey HERE !

Pre-Register Online through May 21, 2024

• $40 for individual riders through December 31, 2023
• $45 for individual riders through May 21, 2024
• $35 each for 4+ family/group riders through May 12, 2024

On-site registration on day of ride: $50, opens at 6:30 a.m.

Ride Day Packet Pick-Up: Begins at 6:30 a.m. at Centennial High School

Burleson Chamber 16.00 Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE

Start Times Staggered start with the first wave (67 & 46 Mile riders going out at 8:00 AM, followed by the 30, 20 and 7 mile riders leaving after the first wave clears.)

2024 Packet Pick-up Locations & Times:

Friday, May 17 All Locations   Noon-4 p.m.

• Trek Bicycle Arlington South - 5739 SW Green Oaks Blvd, Arlington, TX 76017
• Bike Labs - 900 N Walnut Creek Dr # 102, Mansfield, TX 76063
• Fort Worth Cycling & Fitness - 3315 S Cherry Ln, Fort Worth, TX 76116
• City Market - 200 E Renfro St, Burleson, TX 76028

Saturday, May  18

All Locations   Noon-4 p.m.

• Trek Bicycle Arlington South - 5739 SW Green Oaks Blvd, Arlington, TX 76017 

Monday, May 20th – Thursday, May 23rd

• 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Burleson Area Chamber of Commerce (Above Babe’s Restaurant) 124 S. Main Ste., Ste 228 Burleson, TX 76028

Friday, May 24th

• Noon-6 p.m.
• Centennial High School 201 S Hurst Rd. Burleson, TX 76028
• (Use enterance off Renfro St. and Cardinal Ridge)

Routes 7 miles, 20 miles, 30 miles, 46 miles, 67 miles (see Route Maps to the right).   All mileage is approximate and subject to change.

Food Free food and refreshments will be provided to all riders at each rest stop and at the end of the ride in the finish line activity area. 

Showers Yes, there will be showers available inside the field house.

Medical Assistance Medical assistance will be provided by Texas Health Neighborhood Care & Wellness Burleson. The Texas Health Burleson medical bus will be onsite. We will also have a medical professional at rest stops.

Road Assistance  Road assistance will be provided by clearly-marked vehicles on all sections of the route.

Lodging Options

The Best Western Inn and Comfort Inn & Suites in Burleson offer a special room rate for Honey Tour participants! Bicyclists are welcome to bring their bikes into the room! The Burleson Honey Tour Bike Ride is made possible in part by a grant from the City of Burleson Hotel/Motel Funds. You can help support the Burleson Honey Tour by staying the night at our Burleson Partner Hotels who fund tourism in Burleson.

Partner Hotels:

• Best Western Inn 817-744-7747
• Comfort Suites 817-426-6666
• Jellystone Park 817-426-5037

Other Lodging Options Hampton Inn & Suites: 817-295-2727 Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites: 817-426-0396 La Quinta Inn & Suites: 817-447-6565

HAVE FUN AND HAVE A GREAT RIDE!

Driving Directions Burleson is located just 19 miles from downtown Fort Worth. Drive south on I-35W, exit at Renfro and go to the traffic light.  Turn left on Renfro; travel 1.3 Miles and turn left to enter Centennial High School Parking lot OFF RENFRO .

Rules & Regulations NO PETS or ALCOHOL allowed on the premises. By law, and for your safety and security, you must obey all traffic laws throughout the ride.  HELMETS ARE MANDATORY: Riders must wear helmets that meet Snell, or Z90.4 or US CPSC standards. No late starts after 8:30 AM and the course closes at 2:00 PM. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. The Burleson Honey Tour Bike Ride reserves the right to adjust starting times and mileage, remove riders, and cancel or combine events.

Route Maps :

• Orange Route (67 miles) Map My Ride 67 Mile Link
• Red Route (46 miles) Map My Ride 46 Mile Link Honey-Tour-46-mile-Flyer-Map-Rev-1.pdf
• Blue Route (30 miles) Map My Ride 30 Mile Link 2023 Honey Tour 30 Mile route map.pdf
• Yellow Route (20 miles) Map My Ride 20 Mile Link Honey-Tour-20-mile-Flyer-Map-Rev-1.pdf
• Green Route (7 miles) Map My Ride 7 Mile Link Honey-Tour-7-mile-Flyer-Map-Rev-1.pdf

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American Bullnese

About American Bullnese

The American Bullnese is a combination of five different breeds, including the French Bulldog and the Pekingese . They are short, stocky little clowns who love snuggling. Their short stature and short nose makes them laid back and keeps their exercise requirements low. They do well living with the elderly and in apartments.

American Bullnese, or Bullnese for short, are cheery elves whose goofy little faces are sure to win over the hearts of anyone. They are a breed created for their sweet temperaments and small size.

The American Bullnese is a combination of five different breeds, including the French Bulldog and the Pekingese.

The Bullnese originated in 1989, and were developed by a man named Robert E. Rice from Jacksonville, Florida. His selective breeding created this lovable breed that has won over the hearts of many. He decided to create a fun-loving mix that would get along with just about anyone. It took time and patience to create the breed – but in the end we are gifted with the Bullnese.

A combination of five different breeds, two of which are the French Bulldog and the Pekingese, the American Bullnese was created to combine a unique dog that boasts desired traits and features needed in a beloved companion. There is also a hybrid Bullnese created from mixing a French Bulldog and a Pekingese. Difference sources tend to argue about what breeds are in the mix, but the two breeds that remain consistent are the French Bulldog and the Pekingese. The American Bullnese Association does mention that the American Bulldog is not a part of the mix, as the Bullnese is much smaller in stature.

Since the Bullnese doesn’t have high energy, the food requirements aren’t strict. It is always good to have a quality food, and grain free foods are great to keep these little guys from gaining too much weight. Since there can be stress on their joints from their long barrel-like bodies, it isn’t a bad idea to include a joint supplement of glucosamine and chondroitin. Luckily, the breed isn’t prone to food allergies, so as long as it’s a quality food with small amounts of filler, they should be just fine.

Bullnese may be laid back, but they still benefit from training.

Bullnese may be laid back, but they still benefit from training. While they won’t be hopping over agility fences due to their short, stocky build, they do enjoy having a job. It’s important to make them work for things and not to just give them free reign of the household. Training is best done at an early age to set a precedent. A well-trained Bullnese makes for a great companion for people of all ages.

Female American Bullnese weigh between 15 to 25lbs, and males from 18 to 30lbs. Because the breed is a mix, these are just averages – they can weigh more or less depending on lineage.

The Bullnese is bred specifically for its temperament. They are sweet, loving dogs who would prefer a Netflix binge to a hike in the park. They don’t have a history of troubling behaviors; there are typically no fear or aggression tendencies in the Bullnese.

With any mixed breed, the American Bullnese can develop health problems due to any of the breeds in the mix. With careful selection and breeding, most of these issues are bred out over time. The most common issues for this breed are umbilical hernias, invertebral disk disease, cornea ulceration and problems associated with the brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds. Meaning, they can develop breathing problems without proper care. It is important for them to stay in cool temperatures and not become over-exerted.

The life expectancy of the American Bullnese is between 10 and 15 years.

Bullnese are typically low energy and don’t require much exercise, despite their muscular appearance. They aren’t for the marathon runner; they are better suited for someone looking to stroll around the block a few times a day. A few short walks or playtime makes for one tired Bullnese. Due to their short faces and legs, they don’t do well swimming or with extreme temperatures. Overall, the Bullnese is generally a mild dog.

The Bullnese is bred specifically for its temperament.

Because it is considered a hybrid or designer dog, the American Bullnese is not recognized by the AKC. However, the breed is registered with the Dog Registry of America (DRA) and the American Bullnese Association (ABA).

The coat of the American Bullnese can be any color, but it must be short and dense. The breed standard does not permit long hair. They don’t need to see a groomer and regular baths will keep them smelling fresh. The only additional grooming requirement is keeping the wrinkles clean by using either pet wipes or a washcloth with pet shampoo.

Bullnese puppies tend to vary, but it can be promised that they are all cute. The Bullnese can come in any color and make a welcome addition to any dog-loving household. But do not make the mistake of confusing them with pugs, because Bullnese owners tend to get offended!

Photo credit: BobbysBullnese

Rachel Leavy lives in Rochester, New York with her dog, Maria, and her gecko, Nigel. She has loved animals all her life, and has owned her own dog training and walking company for five years. When she's not playing with puppies, she can usually be found writing short stories, riding horses or out at a play.

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Study Finds Link Between Having a Dog and Girls' Physical Activity

A new study finds that having a furry companion at home could help promote healthy physical activity in children, especially young girls. According to research from the Telethon Kids Institute in Australia, getting a new dog or losing a furry companion is linked with a child’s level of physical activity. This new research shows that having a dog could help promote healthy movement behavior in children. The study's lead researcher, Emma Adams, highlights the positive influence of dog ownership on children’s activity levels, pointing to potential benefits that start from early childhood.“We saw a significant jump in daily physical activity in children whose families acquired a dog over the study period, while those whose families experienced the loss of a dog recorded a steep drop-off in activity,” added Adams.The research teams from Telethon Institute and the University of Western Australia followed 600 children aged between two and seven years old, over a three-year period to determine the impact dog ownership (or loss) has on physical activity levels.The results showed that getting a dog or losing a family companion is associated with significant changes in children’s activity levels. Surprisingly, young girls showed the most significant response.“The results were particularly noticeable in girls, with girls who acquired a dog increasing their light intensity activity and games by almost an hour a day (52 minutes).”“On the flipside, there was a marked drop in light intensity activity and games in girls who experienced the loss of a dog, with their activity dropping by 62 minutes a day,” said Adams according to Independant. Children wore accelerometers during waking hours for seven days at a time to measure sedentary time, screen time, and physical activity. Parents were also asked about their childrens’ activity levels. Half of the children participating in the study didn’t own a dog at any point during the study period, 204 children had a dog for the entire three years, 58 got a dog during the study period, and 31 children lost their furry companion during the course of the study.Data showed that girls who got a dog increased their light intensity activities and games by almost an hour a day (52 minutes). At the same time, girls who lost a dog experienced a decrease of 62 minutes a day in the same activities. Researchers observed that unstructured physical activity, such as walking with the dog or playing in the garden saw an increase for both boys and girls who got a dog during the study. “If we excluded dog walking and playing, there were no changes in the unstructured physical activity, so we could see the changes in physical activity were actually from the addition of those dog-related activities,” said Adams. On the other hand, children who lost their dog decreased their unstructured physical activity by 10.2 sessions a week for girls and 7.7 sessions for boys. “Regular physical activity from an early age is essential for children’s physical and mental health development, but few children or adolescents are meeting recommended daily levels. Our findings indicate that having a dog in the family could help promote healthy movement behaviors in children and reduce their short- and long-term risk of chronic disease.”Although this study discovered a positive link between dog ownership and increased physical activity Adams stresses that it’s not a call for everyone to get a dog. “It’s important to note that we’re not telling families to just go out and get a dog - having a dog comes with many responsibilities and won’t be right for everyone.”Instead, this study encourages dog owners to use canine companionship to increase physical activity. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why is My Rabbit Eating Poop and How Do I Stop It?

It’s a weird and uncomfortable habit, but if your rabbit is eating poop, it may not be a sign of health issues! In fact, for rabbits, eating poop may actually be a healthy decision (even if we’d prefer not to see it).In this article, we’re diving into the mystery of why rabbits eat poop, including why you may want to let your rabbit engage in this “cringey” habit. Plus, we’ll look at the warning signs that something is, indeed, off and when you should contact your veterinarian.Let’s get started…Is it Normal for a Rabbit to Eat Their Poop?Obviously, seeing your rabbit eating their own feces isn’t something any rabbit parent enjoys. If this is your first time seeing your rabbit engaging in this behavior, it may even cause serious concerns. What could possibly be so wrong with your rabbit’s system that they would feel tempted to do that? You may be surprised to learn that this is incredibly common and, in many cases, a regular part of their digestive process. By eating a specific type of poop, they ensure that they are getting (and keeping) all the nutrients that they need to support a healthy, happy life. The idea of chowing down on our own waste is disgusting to us. But for our furry friends, this is a normal part of their daily routine. Rabbit Poop vs Cecotropes To better understand the connection between poop eating and your rabbit’s health, we need to learn about the different types of rabbit waste. More specifically, we need to know about cecotropes. When we go to the bathroom, we have one type of solid waste – a material we couldn’t imagine getting near, let alone making into a meal. Rabbits, however, pass two different types of droppings. The first is fecal waste or poop. If your rabbit has a healthy, functioning digestive system, these will be small, round, dry, ball-like pellets that are light brown. This is often found in your rabbit’s litter box (if they are litter-trained) or the bottom of their cage.The second and the most important type of droppings are cecal pellets or cecotropes. These have the appearance of a small bunch of grapes with several round pellets clumped together. They are shiny, coated in mucus, and usually dark brown/mulberry color. The mucus is sticky, which could cause the cecotropes to pick up a layer of hay, wood shavings, or fur from their environment. While feces is the body’s way of discarding everything your body doesn’t need from your food, aka the ‘waste,’ cecotropes are a little different. These pellets contain partially digested foods that passed through your rabbit’s system without the nutrients being absorbed the first time. They are packed with nutrients as well as helpful bacteria and fungi that support a healthy gastrointestinal system. When you see a rabbit eating their waste, they are usually eating these cecotropes. This allows them to absorb the much-needed nutrients that would otherwise be lost.

Can Dogs Get Pink Eye?

Eye issues are always a big nuisance, for both dogs and their owners alike. Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is one of the more common ailments that affects the eyes and can happen to any of us. But can it affect dogs as well? Yes – conjunctivitis is quite common in dogs, and it causes red, inflamed eyes. In this case, it is called canine conjunctivitis. It can be caused by various factors including bacterial or viral infections, allergies, foreign objects in the eye, or other irritants, and it is manifested in several different ways – this is what you need to know if you suspect your pet has pink eye.Can Dogs Get Pink Eye?There are different types of conjunctivitis in dogs, and some are more dangerous than others. Either way, all dog owners should be well informed about all the potential issues that this inflammation can lead to, as well as the potential causes behind the different types of pink eye.Bacterial ConjunctivitisThis form of conjunctivitis in dogs is often characterized by a yellow or green discharge from the eye, along with redness and swelling of the conjunctiva, which is the thin, transparent membrane covering the inner surface of the eyelids and the white part of the eye. Bacterial conjunctivitis can be connected to other conditions such as respiratory infections or trauma.Viral ConjunctivitisCertain viral infections such as  canine distemper virus or canine adenovirus can also lead to conjunctivitis in dogs. These infections may cause watery discharge, redness, and inflammation of the eye. Viral conjunctivitis can sometimes be more challenging to treat and may require supportive care to manage symptoms.Allergic ConjunctivitisJust like us, dogs can also experience allergic reactions that affect their eyes. Common allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or certain foods can trigger allergic conjunctivitis in some dogs. Symptoms may include itching, redness, and watery discharge.IrritantsSometimes, foreign bodies and irritants in the eye can cause conjunctivitis. Things such as dust, sand, or grass can irritate the eyes and if not treated, lead to conjunctivitis. The same goes for certain airborne chemicals and smoke which can lead to further problems. Conjunctival HyperemiaSomewhat rare, this condition involves dilation of blood vessels in the conjunctiva membrane, resulting in redness of the eyes. It can be caused by various factors, including irritation, trauma, or systemic diseases.Treating and Preventing Pink Eye in DogsTreatment for canine conjunctivitis typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may include topical or oral medications such as antibiotics for bacterial infections, antiviral drugs for viral infections, or anti-inflammatory medications for allergic reactions. In some cases, supportive care such as eye rinses or lubricating drops may be recommended to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.Of course, it pays to do anything you can to prevent the inflammation from occurring in the first place. Be wary of potential irritants and things that could hurt your dog’s eyes and lead to conjunctivitis. If you live in an area with plenty of dust, pollen, smoke, or anything similar, it might be wise to invest in  special protective gogg l es for dogs.

Unexpected Things That Helped Me Cope With Loss of My 17-Year-Old Cat

Getting to share your life with a pet is truly a privilege, as there’s not much that can rival the sheer joy and genuine love these little creatures bring to us. But when the time comes to say goodbye, the weight of grief can feel overwhelming. In these moments, it feels like nothing can help lighten the load we carry, but it’s crucial to remember that the journey through pet loss is a shared experience among countless others who have navigated the same emotional terrain.I recently found myself grappling with the profound loss of my beloved four-legged companion, a 17-year-old cat called Luna. Luna was not just a pet; she was a loyal friend for more than half of my life, a source of comfort during challenging times, and a bundle of joy who brightened even the gloomiest days. When Luna passed away, a void opened up in my heart, leaving me adrift in a sea of grief.

Backyard Airbnbs Give Dog Owners A Private Leash-Free Space to Play

Hourly backyard rentals provide a perfect alternative to the crowded leash-free environment.

Rescue Dog Steals Hearts at Westminster Dog Show 2024

The Westminster Dog Show is a tradition that dog lovers everywhere look forward to each year. It brings award-winning dogs and professional handlers together for a competition celebrating man’s best friend. But this year, an unlikely competitor stole the hearts of spectators and attendees. Miles, a rescue dog from Pennsylvania, was one of over 2,500 dogs to compete in the Westminster Dog Show 2024. The seven-year-old rescue dog was classified as an “All-American Dog,” a term used to describe mutts or mixed-breed dogs. While the annual dog show is only open to purebreds, the Masters Agility Championship and Masters Obedience Championship are open to all breeds (and mixes). It was on the agility course that Miles’ unique energy and impressive skill quickly earned him recognition as a fan favorite. This wasn’t the first time he competed. In fact, Miles had already participated in the Masters Agility Championship twice before, as well as the American Kennel Club Agility Nationals twice, where he was named the top All-American Dog in his category each time. Seeing the joy Miles exhibited while running agility was enough to make any dog lover smile. But the truly heartwarming part of this story is his journey to where he is today and the loving owner who made it all possible.

These are the Most Popular Dog Breeds In Different US Cities

There’s no doubt that dogs are by far the most popular pets in the U.S., with roughly 65.1 million homes having one or more dogs as pets. But not all breeds are loved equally, according to the latest studies from the American Pet Products Association. Certain dog breeds seem a bit more loved by Americans than others and these rankings are a great insight into their popularity in different cities. The North American Pet Health Insurance Association also reports that the number of insured pets in the U.S. has increased around 22.6% annually since 2020, which indicates that doggos are continuing to steal the spotlight as the most famous pets around. In fact, the vast majority of insured pets in the country are dogs.  U.S. News & World Report analyzed all this data to reveal the five most popular dog breeds in 25 major U.S. cities, indicating some very unique dog ownership trends. 1. Austin, Texas:GoldendoodleFrench BulldogLabrador RetrieverGolden RetrieverSiberian Husky2. Boston, MassachusettsGolden RetrieverGerman ShepherdShih TzuBichon FriseCavalier King Charles Spaniel3. Charlotte, North CarolinaGolden RetrieverGoldendoodleEnglish Springer SpanielBrittany SpanielFrench Bulldog4. Chicago, IllinoisGoldendoodleGolden RetrieverGerman ShepherdFrench BulldogMiniature Dachshund5. Columbus, OhioGolden RetrieverRottweilerAustralian ShepherdBernese Mountain DogSilken Windhound6. Dallas, TexasFrench BulldogLabrador Retriever (Yellow)Cane CorsoGolden RetrieverPembroke Welsh Corgi7. Denver, ColoradoGolden RetrieverFrench BulldogGerman ShepherdMalteseAmerican Pit Bull Terrier8. El Paso, TexasShih TzuGerman ShepherdFrench BulldogSchnauzerLabrador Retriever9. Fort Worth, TexasGoldendoodleGerman ShepherdMaltesePugBeagle10. Houston, TexasGoldendoodleGerman ShepherdFrench BulldogChihuahuaPomeranian11. Indianapolis, IndianaShih TzuChihuahuaAmerican BullyAmerican Pit Bull TerrierGoldendoodle12. Jacksonville, FloridaGolden RetrieverFrench BulldogBoxerToy PoodleAmerican Bully13. Las Vegas, NevadaFrench BulldogGolden RetrieverGoldendoodleAustralian ShepherdShih Tzu14. Los Angeles, CaliforniaFrench BulldogGolden RetrieverChihuahuaEnglish BulldogGoldendoodle15. Nashville, TennesseeGoldendoodleGolden RetrieverLagotto RomagnoloLabrador RetrieverSiberian Husky16. New York, New YorkGolden RetrieverYorkshire TerrierGoldendoodleShih TzuFrench Bulldog17. Oklahoma City, OklahomaGerman ShepherdEnglish BulldogGreat PyreneesMiniature SchnauzerYorkshire Terrier18. Philadelphia, PennsylvaniaGolden RetrieverYorkshire TerrierChihuahuaShih TzuAmerican Pit Bull Terrier19. Phoenix, ArizonaGolden RetrieverGerman ShepherdChihuahuaAustralian ShepherdFrench Bulldog20. San Antonio, TexasLabrador Retriever (Yellow)PugFrench BulldogChihuahuaGerman Shepherd21. San Diego, CaliforniaGolden RetrieverPugFrench BulldogLabrador Retriever (Yellow)Labrador Retriever22. San Francisco, CaliforniaGoldendoodleChihuahuaShih TzuGerman ShepherdPomeranian23. San Jose, CaliforniaGerman ShepherdGoldendoodleGolden RetrieverPembroke Welsh CorgiToy Poodle24. Seattle, WashingtonGolden RetrieverFrench BulldogDachshundGoldendoodlePoodle25. Washington, D.C.French BulldogPoodle Golden RetrieverSoft-Coated Wheaten TerrierGoldendoodleIt's clear that in many of America’s largest cities, certain breeds are more popular than others, like the Goldendoodle, Golden Retriever, and French Bulldog. Poodles, Pugs, and German Shepherds are also close at the top. We can also spot some regional trends as well. For example, the German Shepherd is quite popular in Texas, mainly for its role as a working and service dog.What about you? What is your favorite dog breed and why? Does your personal fave align with your city’s most popular breeds? Tell us in the comments!

Wish Your Dog Could Understand You? New Study Says They Can!

You don’t have to be a dog owner to know that dogs can learn and understand commands like “sit” or “come”. But, a new study has made a groundbreaking discovery that dogs also know that certain words stand for specific objects. This finding won’t come as a big surprise to any dog owner who has ever asked their pup to “go get your toy” and, a minute later, been handed a chewed-up rubber ball or slobbery stuffed animal. Scientists have long been interested in learning whether dogs can truly associate words with objects. However, researchers couldn’t figure out whether dogs and other animals get a mental image when they hear an object's name. This would suggest that dogs have a better understanding of language than believed before. Researchers in Hungary have discovered that in addition to being able to respond to commands such as “sit”, “roll over”, or “stay” dogs can also grasp the essence of nouns. This relationship with language is called referential understanding, and it has been unproven in dogs until now. “When we are talking about objects, objects are external to the dogs and dogs have to learn that words refer, they stand for something that is external to them,” explained the study’s co-lead author, Marianna Boros, of the Department of Ethology at the Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.To get some answers about what is happening in the dog brain when it processes words, Boros and her colleagues asked 18 dog owners to bring their pooches to the lab along with five objects the dogs knew well. The objects included balls, slippers, leads, rubber toys, frisbees, and other items.Researchers instructed the owners to say the words for the items before showing their dog either the correct object or a different one. For example, the owner might say “Rover, look, the ball”, but hold up a lead instead. During the tests, the researchers measured the dogs’ brain activity using non-invasive electroencephalography, or EEG. The idea was to see whether EEG could offer a better insight into dogs’ understanding of language. The brain recordings showed different patterns in the brain when the dogs were shown an object that matched or didn’t match the owner’s spoken word. The difference was even greater for the words owners believed their dogs knew well.The same results were seen when humans performed these tests and are widely accepted as people understanding the word well enough to form a mental image of the object they were later shown. “We expected that if a dog really understands the meaning of the object’s word, it will expect to see that object. And if the owner shows a different one, there will be a so-called surprise reaction in the brain. And this is exactly what we found,” said Boros according to ABC News.Lilla Magyari, also of Eötvös Loránd University, and the other co-first author, said that although some other animals have shown some degree of referential understanding of language, they have typically been trained to do so. In dogs, she explained, such capacities seem to be inborn and don’t require any particular training or talent. Researchers stress they aren’t claiming that dogs understand words as well as humans. Future studies are needed to determine whether dogs can generalize in the same way humans learn to as children.This study raises an interesting question of why, if dogs understand nouns, more of them don’t show it. One possible answer is that dogs know more than they are willing to show us.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

ACANA™ Pet Food Team Announces Nationwide Kitten Cuddler Promotion

Are you the next champion kitten cuddler? Because ACANA™ is looking for one! Their latest campaign is aimed at supporting  cat shelters, which can be overwhelmed with newborn kittens during increased birth rates amongst cats. In a bid to help, ACANA™ will help both shelters and kittens in the critical stages – from arrival to adoption. ACANA™, the pet food specialists, are preparing for the upcoming “kitten season”, attempting to increase public awareness of just how much work shelters could have during this time. In their latest effort, not only will they be donating cat food to the shelters, but they will also be offering $10,000 to one lucky cat lover to do nothing more but cuddle with kittens at a  Best Friends Animal Society center. They do this in hopes of encouraging others to volunteer as “kitten cuddlers”. Hopefully, their efforts will lead to increased adoptions of kittens, and completely eliminate the killing of unadopted cats and dogs in America, a goal to which Best Friends Animal Society is wholly dedicated to. And now, the help is needed the most. The so-called “ kitten season” spans from May to November, and it is the time of the year when female cats have most of their kittens. During this period, many animal shelters report a great influx of kittens that need care and adoption. It goes without saying that caring for a large number of gentle and fragile kitties is a labor-consuming and very challenging job. A shelter’s resources and staff can be very strained in this period, so all the help they can get is more than welcome. The ACANA™ pet food team is well aware of this and is donating 5,000 cases of wet kitten food in Apri. This is equivalent to about $250,000 at retail prices and comes to roughly 120,000 meals for kittens. Not only this, but the team also encourages everyone to volunteer at their local shelters and help with the many tasks surrounding kitten care. And a very important task is, of course, cuddling! Kitties are fragile and require constant care and all the love and warmth they can get. It is because of this need that ACANA™ will reward one person with $10,000 to cuddle kittens! The lucky winner will spend half a day at a Best Friends Animal Society lifesaving center, or a chosen network partner shelter this June. For their cuddling efforts, they will receive $10,000. "We believe in the total well-being of cats," said Billy Frey, Vice President, Marketing for Champion Petfoods. "ACANA™ pet food helps cats thrive through every stage of life, and a cat's earliest days set the tone for everything that follows. This program demonstrates our commitment to taking care of both the emotional and nutritional needs of kittens."The rules of the contest are straightforward. The prospective kitten cuddlers must be U.S. residents, and aged 18 or over. Needless to say, they must love kittens and have four hours available over one weekend in June 2024. Easy, yes? Additionally, contestants must pass a background check and cannot be in a partnership with a competing pet food brand. For a chance to be selected, you can enter the contest between March 27th through April 10th, 2024. Cuddlers, good luck!

UK Dog Is Recovering After 130+ Coins Were Removed From His Stomach

Missing any cash? An owner from Swindon in the UK did and was shocked when he discovered how his money went missing. The vets were equally shocked because they discovered that Charlie, the little  Bichon Frise, had eaten 133 coins, equalling more than £18!The mischievous little Bichon was taken to Thameswood Vets in Swindon, after the owners became concerned for his health, thinking he was ill. Their doubts proved true. A quick ultrasound revealed an obvious obstruction in the pet’s tummy. At first, the vet thought it was a piece of plastic, and scheduled an operation to remove the obstruction. But the surgery left him shocked. "It was a surprise for everybody,"  said vet Matheus Nerone, who carried out the surgery. Because once the stomach was opened, a “hoard” of 133 coins was discovered, adding up to £18 and 20 pence. "We opened his stomach and found 133 coins inside him," Dr. Nerone explained. "We did find some pieces of plastic there as well - but the owners had no idea that he had eaten the coins."Everyone was left scratching their head, wondering how on earth did Charlie ingest so many coins. "I don't think they had been there that long - maybe the night or two nights before he came in - because of the size of the obstruction there.” the Dr. said. "He felt sick so if he had eaten those coins a few days ago, he would have been sick before then."Of course, the doctor revealed that it is not uncommon for dogs to  ingest all sorts of things, especially loose change. "It does happen but usually they stop after having a couple of them [coins] - but 133 coins is an impressive amount!"Luckily, the surgery went well, and mischievous little Charlie is now making a good recovery. Thanks to the owner’s keen eye, a real tragedy was prevented, as Charlie could have been in big trouble without quick attention. "Many coins contain zinc which can be poisonous and lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and a lack of appetite," Dr. Nerone clarified. "We are monitoring his blood, but we are hopeful that everything's going to be fine."So next time you’re missing some change, consider all the possibilities!

Urine Tests Could Now Provide Early Detection of Cancer in Dogs

Cancer doesn’t discriminate – it affects all creatures around the world, including our cherished pets. Learning that your  dog has cancer can be such a devastating thing, but sadly, it is so common nowadays. John Robertson, research professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics at Virginia Tech says in his interview for  WTOP News  that “one in four dogs will be diagnosed with cancer,” and that “by the time they’re middle-aged, 50% of dogs will die of cancer after the age of 10 years.”Professor Robertson is part of a vast research team that has developed an innovative new noninvasive rapid test that utilizes a dog’s urine and allows potential early detection of cancer. “Usually, when a dog gets diagnosed with cancer, it’s usually quite advanced, with visible signs — we’re trying to detect cancer before these physical symptoms appear,” said fellow researcher Ryan Senger, associate professor in the Department of Biological Systems Engineering. “Cancer is going to change overall metabolism inside the body, and it’s going to change the way the kidneys function, which can be observed in the urine screening process,” Senger added.Through samples of dog urine, the research team discovered that cancerous subjects amongst the observed molecules had a unique “fingerprint” that could be used to indicate the presence of cancer. “We would like to be able to have dogs screened earlier, before cancer develops, throughout their lifetime, perhaps a once-a-year urine specimen,” said Robertson. “That tells us what the molecular fingerprint of the urine is, so if it changes and falls into that realm of fingerprints that define cancer, we’d be able to pay more attention to figure out what’s going on with the dog.”Robertson also added that there are 12 breeds of purebred dogs that have a much higher incidence of cancer. “We’re going to focus on being able to institute early, regular screening that’s going to help pick up earlier when they’re developing cancer, in the hopes that we can get better outcomes.”However, veterinary care is typically subsidized by the owner, Robertson emphasized, which is opposite to medical care, which is often paid for by insurance. “So, we intend to make our tests readily available at a price point that everyone can afford to regularly have their dog examined and screened.”, the professor added. Robertson said that urine screening is currently being researched, to determine whether it could be applied to humans as well, potentially bringing great changes to the discovery of cancer cells. The team’s findings were published in  Frontiers in Veterinary Science and make us very optimistic for the future of preventive veterinary medicine – an inexpensive, accurate way to screen for a potentially fatal illness could be life-changing for so many pets and their owners. Not to mention the implications if such a test could be adapted to be used on humans, as well! 

What Happens if a Dog Eats a Cicada?

As naturally inquisitive animals, dogs will often explore the world around them with their noses and mouths. However, this curiosity will sometimes lead them to all sorts of trouble, as they can eat things that might not be a typical part of their diet. In fact, they can munch on things that are not even edible! For example, those noisy, flying insects that emerge periodically, called cicadas, can become a tasty target for curious dogs. But what would happen if a dog would eat one of these insects? Here is all you should know.What Happens if a Dog Eats a Cicada?Cicadas are large, winged insects that appear in large numbers, and are known for their distinct sounds. Of course, they are not inherently harmful to pooches, but there are still some things to keep in mind if your pet happens to snack on one. Well, the most important thing to know is that cicadas are not toxic to dogs. Unlike some insects that carry venom or other harmful substances, cicadas are generally seen as harmless. But even so, the ingestion of these insects can still lead to some minor health issues, mostly related to their physical characteristics and the digestive system of a dog. Here’s what could go amiss if your pooch swallows one of these weird little bugs:Upset TummyAfter this unusual “snack”, your pet could end up with a mild case of digestive upset, especially if they already have a sensitive stomach to begin with. The insect’s exoskeleton, being hard and crunchy, is not so easy to digest. As a result, your pooch could experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea or vomiting. Still, they are short-lived and should disappear on their own. If your dog experiences gastrointestinal upset, consider giving them a canine probiotic that could restore their gut flora and help them feel like their old selves in no time.

Dog Who Spent 900 Days in a Shelter Returned 1 Day After Being Adopted

The staff at the Valley Animal Center in Fresno, California was joyous when a Labrador retriever pit bull mix named Sora was finally adopted. Sora, who was the shelter’s longest resident, has waited 900 days to be adopted into a loving, furever home.Sadly, less than 24 hours after the adoption, the poor pooch was returned to the shelter. The Valley Animal Center in Fresno, the largest no-kill shelter in California’s Central Valley, welcomed Sora nearly 4 years ago after the pup’s previous owners surrendered the pet. Since then, Sora hasn’t garnered much attention from prospective adopters, which is shocking to shelter staff who know the pooch well. “Sora is a high-energy dog who loves to play and gets super excited anytime she gets to go on walks,” said Sim Kaur from Valley Animal Center to Newsweek. According to Kaur, Sora loves to walk and hike and will make an amazing travel companion to an outdoorsy person. The sweet pooch also loves playing with tennis balls and is always in the mood for a game of fetch. Sora has tested well with children over the age of five and is affectionate and lovable with adults.Despite being overlooked for so many years, this cute pup recently caught the attention of a potential adopter. After a few meetings, the person decided to adopt Sora, giving this pooch the happy ending she deserved.Then, the worst possible thing happened! Just 24 hours later, the new owner called the shelter to say they would be returning the pup. Sora arrived at the shelter heartbroken and looked particularly sad to be back in the same kennel she called home for so many years.This turn of events shocked Kaur, who believed Sora’s adopters should have given her more time to decompress and settle in her new home before deciding to return the pet to the shelter.“Being in a shelter for many years affects the mental health of our adoptables and it is no different for Sora,” she added. “Sora did not get enough time to decompress in her new home and was introduced to new family members too quickly.”Sora’s sad story was posted on TikTok and has received more than 1.6 million views, leaving doggy lovers around the world in tears. Sharing the video of Sora with another pooch, Eros, who was also returned quickly after adoption, the shelter wrote: “Their tails wagging with hope as they were welcomed into their new home. However, after a short period of time, these shelter dogs found themselves back in their kennels. They are still hopeful that somewhere out there is their furever home where they will be cherished as they deserve.”One day is not enough time for a shelter dog to adjust to its new home. Especially, if the dog in question has spent more than 900 days stuck inside a shelter. Unfortunately, staff at animal shelters see this happen often. Some people who adopt shelter dogs simply don’t give them the time they need to adjust to a new home, and all the unfamiliar sights, smells, and people. It comes as no surprise, to most people, that any dog that has spent any time in a shelter, much less 900 days, will need some time to adapt to its new life and recover from the stress they have experienced. Hopefully, the next person who adopts Sora will understand her and give her the time she needs to adjust to her new home. This adorable pooch is still looking for her furever home. If you think Sora will fit right into your family, submit an adoption application here. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

After 5 Long Years, a Lost Senior Dog is Reunited With His Owner

It seems that year is off to a good start in Sharonville, Ohio, where a true miracle happened for a hopeful pawrent. A Butler County woman named Hannah experienced immense relief and happiness after she was reunited with her long-lost doggo, at the annual My Furry Valentine adoption event in Sharonville. Will, Hannah’s wonderful Golden Retriever buddy had been missing for five years, after he wandered away from home in October 2019. Devastated, Hannah and her family searched for days and weeks for Will, but without success. In the end, fearing the worst, they had to let go of their wavering hopes.But incredibly, much to their amazement, their hopes were rekindled. They spotted a stray dog photo posted out of Clermont County – the resemblance to Will was uncanny. Hannah quickly sent a Facebook message to the nonprofit Clear the Clermont County Animal Shelter, inquiring about the dog - apparently named Rome. After a brief explanation, she said she believed it was none other than her beloved Will. 

Cat Chattering: What Is It and What Does It Mean?

Cats communicate with each other and their humans in a variety of ways through vocalizations and body language. While you may be able to figure out what your cat is saying when they meow or hiss, you might be at a loss for an explanation when you see them chatter for the first time, especially if you’ve never seen cats do this before.What does it mean when cats chatter? Check out the information below to learn all about it so you’ll be able to figure out what your kitty is thinking and feeling the next time you see them exhibit this odd behavior.What Is Chattering in Cats?Chattering usually happens when a kitty sees something that they want to get their paws on. Many times, they’ll be looking out the window when a prey animal, like a chipmunk or bird, comes into view. Or, if your kitty spends time in a catio or outdoor enclosure, they might start chattering when they see small wildlife. As soon as your cat sees their intended prey, they may be ready to go on the hunt, and might express this feeling by chattering.This behavior doesn’t only happen when your kitty sees wildlife, though. It can also happen when you’re using a toy to play with them. The movement of the toy can get them excited and ready to pounce on their “prey,” and they might chatter as a result.Once you know what cat chattering looks like, you’ll be able to recognize it right away. But if you’ve never seen it before, it can be described simply as your cat making quick movements with their jaw, showing their teeth while staring intently at their target. Sometimes, no sounds will come out, but other times, they’ll make chirping sounds or even little meows. Some people even describe chattering as “ekekek”.To see what it looks like, here’s a compilation of cats chattering:

Globetrotting Pet Lovers Discover a New Way to Travel Cheap

Airbnbs get a run for their money as pet sitting home swaps become the new way to travel on a budget.

Handsome Rescue Cat Hamlet Runs His Own Hotel

Move over, Fido! Who needs a guard dog when you have a feline overseeing the place? At least, that’s how the owners and employees of New York City’s Algonquin Hotel seem to believe…Since the 1930s, the hotel lobby has been carefully supervised by a one-of-a-kind employee. But don’t let his small size fool you – the Algonquin Cat, as they are lovingly called, is an important fixture of the hotel with a long history that most are unaware of.The tradition began when the hotel’s owner, Frank Case, welcomed a stray orange tabby cat named Billy into the hotel. It wasn’t long before Billy could be seen walking the hotel’s elegant halls with his head (and tail) held high. Before long, he was renamed Hamlet (a more literary name suitable for a cat with such big responsibilities), and a legend was born.Since that day, the hotel has never been without a feline greeter. All boy cats that serve in this role are orange tabbies named Hamlet while all girl cats are ragdolls named Matilda. The best part? In honor of the first Hamlet’s origin story, all the hotel’s resident cats are rescues.Today, Hamlet the 8th continues to rule the hotel lobby, an incredible step up from the feral cat colony he once called home.When he’s not working, Hamlet is pampered with daily brushing, fashion show benefits, birthday parties, and other perks. Plus, of course, the steady stream of attention that he receives from the many cat lovers who come to see the hardworking kitty.Just a couple of years ago, the hotel underwent a refresh. The oldest continuously operating hotel in the city was starting to look a little worn. In addition to focusing on maintaining the historic architecture and feel of the hotel, the redesign also focused on finding new ways to accommodate Hamlet VIII and the many cats that will follow in his paw prints.A small cat house was installed by the reception desk. “The idea is, hopefully, he likes it in there so the guests can see him when they first walk in, but he also feels safe,” explained Sara Duffy, a principal at the architecture and interior design firm Stonehill Taylor who carried out the hotel’s refresh.The cat-friendly accommodations didn’t end there. A bookshelf in the hotel’s lounge features cat-friendly nooks and ladders, allowing him to easily move around the room while visiting with various guests. A daybed by the window creates the perfect place for Hamlet VIII to relax and soak up the sun’s rays.“He likes to be up high and look down, to observe but not be pet all the time. But sometimes he likes to come down and participate,” said Duffy when asked about the lounge’s design features.If you’re interested in visiting Hamlet VIII while in New York, the Algonquin Hotel is located between Fifth and Sixth Avenues at 59 West 44th Street. Or you can read more about these legendary cats in the book Matilda, the Algonquin Cat.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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Have your own adventure with the #1 outdoor app today., bullensee - walsrode rundtour, tour overview, html.reactmodal__html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.reactmodal__html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.reactmodal__html--open.reactmodal__html--panel #pagemountnode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} schnuckenheide, hastedt.

Bike Touring Highlight

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Bike Touring Highlight ( Segment )

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July 26, 2021

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Today it should be a "quiet" route from Rotenburg (Wümme) to Walsrode - the Bullensee south of Rotenburg was ideal for parking and starting (a great starting point for various activities).

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