Even the most beloved pet bed has a shelf life. Over time, it can lose its shape, trap odors, or become a magnet for allergens and pests. Beyond wear and tear, it might also fall short in comfort, support, or size as your pet’s needs change.

Whether your pet’s bed is clearly on its last legs or just not cutting it anymore, this guide will help you recognize the signs it’s time for a new one.

How Often Should You Replace a Pet Bed?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but most pet beds last between one and five years. Here are some general timelines based on the most common types of beds:

• Basic polyester-filled beds: Usually need to be replaced every one to two years, or sooner if the filling becomes lumpy or flattened.
• Orthopedic beds: Often made from memory foam or egg crate foam, orthopedic beds typically last two to five years, depending on quality. Some high-quality orthopedic pet beds claim to last ten years or longer. Regardless of the brand, these beds should be replaced if the foam no longer rebounds or sags significantly.

Signs a Pet Bed Needs Replacing

Not sure if it’s time for an upgrade? There are a few clear signs that it’s time to get your pet a new bed: 

1. Flattened, saggy or lumpy padding: This indicates that the bed is no longer providing proper support, which can be especially hard on aging joints.
2. Visible damage or holes: Rips, tears, or exposed stuffing can be unsafe and make the bed less cozy or functional. Pro tip: if the damage is limited to the outer cover and the rest of the bed is still in good shape, you might just need a replacement cover—not a whole new bed.
3. Persistent odors: Lingering smells, even after washing, may mean the bed is harboring bacteria, mold, or allergens. If that’s the case, then it’s better to start anew.
4. Increased restlessness or reluctance to use: If your pet is avoiding the bed or constantly shifting around while lying on it, it may no longer be comfortable for them.
5. Difficult to clean: If it doesn’t come clean anymore, it may be time to toss it. 
6. Too small: Pets grow, and their sleeping arrangement needs change. What once fit may now be too cramped for them to stretch out on.

Don’t Sleep on It: Regular Bed Checks Matter

A cozy, supportive bed plays a big role in your pet’s daily comfort and health, so make an effort to check on its condition from time to time. 

Pay attention to how the bed looks, smells, and feels. If it’s sagging, stinky, torn, or no longer giving your pet the support they need, it’s probably time for a replacement.

The thought of parasitic worms certainly makes lots of people feel squeamish, so you’re not alone if this topic makes you shudder. The good news is that educating yourself will help you keep your pets and human family members safe. If you’ve just discovered your dog has worms or simply learned about the possibility that dogs can get worms, you may be wondering, Can my dog give worms to me, or my kids, or our other pets? The short answer is yes, but you may be relieved to learn that many dog parasites are preventable and/or easily treatable.

Read on to learn all about common worms in dogs, how they spread, which ones are contagious, and what you can do to protect pets and people from worms. 

Are Worms Contagious?

The short answer is that it depends. Each kind of parasite has a unique life cycle that involves different forms of transmission. This determines how worms get into their next host and what species can serve as a host. Some worms are contagious only between dogs, while others may be passed to humans or other pets as well. This may involve transmission through feces and materials contaminated by feces like soil or sand, direct contact with worms or eggs, transmission from mother dogs to their babies, or transmission through an insect vector like fleas or mosquitos.

Therefore, it is important to know the different risks for specific parasites and to take precautions to prevent transmission and treat infections quickly and effectively. The best way to do this is to stay on top of routine veterinary care and preventative dewormings and to see your vet right away if you suspect any of your pets may have parasites, fleas, or any other signs of illness.

How Different Types of Worms Spread

Roundworms

Roundworms, officially called Toxocara canis, are one of the most common parasites in dogs. These worms are often acquired by puppies from their mom during pregnancy or nursing. They can also be transmitted to dogs by eating small rodents that have roundworms or by ingesting roundworm eggs in dirt or other materials contaminated with feces. Many dogs with roundworms have no symptoms at all but pet parents might occasionally see a long thin worm in their vomit or feces. Some dogs with worms may experience bloating, gas, diarrhea, or slow growth. This parasite can be transmitted to humans as well if the eggs are accidentally ingested in soil, sand, or other contaminated objects.

Hookworms

Hookworms, or Ancylostoma caninum, are another common intestinal parasite of dogs. This parasite tends to do more damage to its hosts as it has sharp, hook-like mouth parts that attach to dogs’ intestines. Dogs with hookworms may have intestinal bleeding, anemia, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or weight loss. This parasite can also infect puppies through their moms during nursing and can cause severe signs that can be fatal in young puppies. Hookworms can also be transmitted to dogs by eating infected prey like rodents or through contaminated soil, sand, and other objects. The larvae of hookworms can also get into both animals and people through their skin if they come into contact with them on the ground. Humans are often infected after walking barefoot in contaminated areas where infected dogs or other animals have defecated like beaches or public parks.

Tapeworms

Multiple kinds of tapeworms can infect both dogs and humans. Dogs most commonly acquire a tapeworm called Dipylidium caninum, which comes from fleas. Immature fleas ingest tapeworm eggs, and when dogs bite at their fur due to itchy fleas, they can unintentionally ingest fleas, along with the tapeworm eggs.

Dogs with tapeworms may have no symptoms at all, so any dog that has fleas should be treated for tapeworms. Pet parents may notice rice-like segments around their dog’s butts or in their poop if they have an active tapeworm infection. Humans and other pets cannot acquire tapeworms through direct contact with an infected dog, however, other pets and occasionally humans may become infected if they also ingest fleas or eat contaminated or undercooked meat. This is another good reason to keep all pets on flea preventatives year-round and aggressively treat any flea infestations as soon as possible.

Whipworms

Whipworms, formally called Trichuris vulpis, are also fairly common in dogs. These worms are transmitted when their eggs are ingested, either through dirt contaminated with infected feces, or when grooming one another. Whipworm eggs are very hardy and can survive in the environment for a long time. Even if there is no sign of animal feces in the area, the eggs may still be present.

Dogs with whipworms may have very mild symptoms when there are only a few worms present, but more serious infections can cause severe diarrhea, weight loss, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances. There is no evidence that whipworms can be transmitted to humans.

Heartworms

Heartworms are unique among the other worms in this group, both in the way that they spread and the disease that they cause. Heartworms, or Dirofilaria immitis, are transmitted by mosquitoes. When a mosquito ingests blood from an infected dog, it also ingests immature heartworms, which can then enter the next host that the mosquito feeds on. Dogs, foxes, and wolves are the main host for Dirofilaria immitis but the worms can occasionally infect other animals, like cats, and very rarely, humans.

Early in a heartworm infection, there are usually no symptoms at all but routine testing may pick up these infections. In dogs with more advanced infections and large numbers of adult worms, common signs include coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, heart failure, or even death. In all cases, the worms are transmitted by mosquitoes and there is no risk of infection through direct contact with a dog or cat.

How to Prevent the Spread of Worms

Once you have a deeper understanding of the lifecycle of different worms and how they spread, you can target your efforts to prevent them. Some of the best ways to keep your dog safe are:

• Ensuring they receive routine preventatives for heartworm, fleas, and intestinal parasites: Many products combine these preventatives into one monthly treatment, making it quick and easy to keep your dog protected.
• Practicing good hygiene: Be sure to pick up and remove all dog feces as soon as your dog eliminates and to clean up any accidents indoors with appropriate cleaners. Make sure to wash and clean your dog’s food and water bowls daily, along with toys, bedding, and litter boxes (if you also have cats). Make sure everyone in your home is aware of these practices and encourage routine hand washing after handling pets and before eating. It is also a good idea to wear gloves when cleaning up feces or working in the garden, and to keep children’s sandboxes covered up when not in use.
• Keeping your dog on a leash: Try to avoid letting your dog off-leash in areas where there may be stray animals or wildlife to prevent them from hunting live prey or coming into contact with contaminated feces.
• Staying up to date on vet visits: All pets should receive routine screening for worms as part of their annual or bi-annual physical exams, so be sure to keep up with these appointments and follow up with any recommended dewormings that your veterinarian prescribes.

When to Call the Vet

Any time you notice abnormal behaviors or signs of illness with your dog, it is best to see a vet right away. This allows you to get relief for your dog before things get worse and may save you money if your dog can avoid more intensive treatments. Many times, dogs with worms have no signs at all, but if you do see actual worms in your dog’s feces or vomit, it is a clear sign that they have an infection.

Other common signs of worms include diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, slow growth, and/or a bloated belly. And of course, even healthy dogs should be screened at least once a year for parasites and should stay up-to-date with preventative treatments like vaccines and dewormings. Be sure to stay on schedule with your dog’s routine veterinary appointments to ensure they don’t miss any important treatments.

Protecting Your Pack

While the thought of worms in your beloved pets can be a creepy concept, education is your best weapon in preventing infections and protecting your pets and human family members. Once you understand how different worms are spread, you can minimize the risks of transmission by keeping up with good hygiene practices and preventative treatments for fleas, heartworms, and intestinal parasites. Your vet is also a crucial ally in this fight, so take advantage of their resources to screen your pets routinely for parasites and stay on top of preventative care.

If you are concerned that your dog has an active parasite infection, be sure to see your vet right away and follow their recommendations. With knowledge and the right tools, you can effectively protect both your human and canine family members from worms.

A dog diaper is like a baby diaper, designed to fit snugly on your pet to catch urine and feces. Dog diapers can be helpful in many situations, such as incontinence, heat cycles, or post-surgery recovery.

But you might be wondering if diapers for dogs are safe, comfortable, or effective. Also,  because there are multiple types of diapers, you might not know which one is best for your pooch.

We’ve got answers to all your questions, including how to put a diaper on a dog.

When and Why to Use Dog Diapers

A dog diaper could be necessary or helpful in cases such as:

Incontinent and senior dogs

Urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control) can occur as a symptom of certain medical problems, such as diabetes or a urinary tract infection, and can also develop in senior dogs.

In addition to incontinence, senior dogs might find it hard to go potty outside because of mobility issues, cognitive decline, or pain. With a diaper, they won’t get urine or feces in your home if they can’t get outside in time.

Injured dogs and those recovering from surgery

After undergoing a surgical procedure or sustaining an injury, a dog might experience difficulty moving due to pain, swelling, or even a cast. Also, certain injuries can inhibit mobility, and paralyzed dogs or those with nerve damage may need diapers.

In these scenarios, your dog may struggle to walk outside and go potty, so your vet might recommend using a diaper. This will allow your pooch to relieve themselves without making a mess.

House training and behavioral challenges

Along with potty pads, diapers can be used while house training a puppy. Also, some dogs exhibit submissive or excitement urination, and diapers can prevent messes.

Implementing the right training techniques can help resolve these pee accidents so you eventually won’t need the diapers.

Female dogs in heat

If your dog isn’t spayed, she’ll go into heat about twice a year. Her behavior will change, and she’ll urinate more often, including marking inside the home. She’ll also bleed for up to 10 days.

Dog period diapers are for females in heat, and can prevent messes from urine marking and blood that could end up on your floors or furniture.

Types of Dog Diapers

Dog diapers are designed specifically for canines, with a hole for their tail and enough coverage for their genitals and anus, so don’t use diapers for humans on your pet.

Shop for diapers based on your dog’s gender, size, and needs. There are many options to ensure your dog is comfortable and the diaper is effective.

Disposable vs. reusable dog diapers

Disposable diapers are used once and discarded. Reusable diapers can be washed and used many times, making them eco-friendly and potentially more affordable if your dog needs diapers long-term.

Belly bands for male dogs

Incontinent male dogs can benefit from belly bands that wrap around the waist only. These products are designed to be comfortable while providing the optimal amount of coverage for urine.

Full-coverage diapers for both male and female dogs

Full-coverage diapers are a good choice for males with bowel incontinence, and for females in heat.

Product Recommendations

Check out these diapers to get an idea of what’s available for different dogs with varying needs:

These reusable, washable dog diapers are for female and male dogs in heat. They have a soft mesh top layer, an outer waterproof layer, and two fleece layers. Some dogs might feel more comfortable in these because they don’t have the crinkly material of disposable diapers.

Key Features:

• Designed to prevent leaks
• Velcro closures
• Four layers include two layers of absorbent fleece

Highlights:

• Machine washable
• Can be used as female dog diapers, and for house training, incontinence, or excitement urination
• Available in X-small to X-large sizes, and multiple colors and designs

Things to Consider:

• It can also be used on cats
• No wetness indicator

These disposable male wraps work as diapers for dog incontinence, providing extra strong, leak-proof protection. They feature a fabric layer that dries fast, and liquid is drawn down and locked in an absorbent core where it’s turned into a gel to keep your pet dry.

Key Features:

• Secure, flexible fit with fur-safe fasteners
• 360-degree protection
• Odor-proof

Highlights:

• Breathable outer layer
• Wetness indicator tells you when it’s time for a change
• Available in sizes X-small to large based on waist measurement

Things to Consider:

• These dog diapers for male dogs can’t be used on females
• Not available in X-large size

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Put a Diaper on a Dog

Putting a diaper on your dog might be tricky at first, but once you get the hang of things, it’ll be a stress-free process.

1. Prepare the diaper by unfolding it. Your dog should be relaxed, whether they’re standing or lying down.
2. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placing and adjusting the diaper correctly. If there’s a hole for your dog’s tail, slide their tail through the hole first to get the diaper into position.
3. Secure the diaper in place using the fasteners. It should be snug but loose enough that you can slip two fingers in between the diaper and your dog’s waist.

Tips for Success and Comfort: How to Put a Dog Diaper on Your Pooch

To avoid common mistakes and keep your dog comfortable while wearing a diaper:

• Choose the right size and style. Manufacturers provide sizing guides based on weight and/or waist measurements.
• Confirm the diaper doesn’t interfere with your dog’s movement.
• Check the diaper frequently for wetness, and make sure it’s pulling wetness away from the body.
• Check for signs of chafing, skin irritation, and urine scald. If these occur, change the diaper right away when it’s soiled. Or, you might need a diaper made of different materials or one that’s a more appropriate size.
• Focus on dog hygiene. To prevent infection, change the diaper regularly, including whenever it’s soiled. You can use pet wipes to clean your pooch before putting a new diaper on them. For your hygiene, wear gloves when doing a diaper change.
• It can take time for your dog to get used to wearing a diaper. Be patient, keep them distracted with treats or toys while putting on the diaper, and use praise to help them develop a positive association with it.
• Give your dog breaks from the diaper by using products like potty pads instead. This can help prevent infection and irritation. For example, you might remove the diaper overnight.

When to Talk to a Vet

Diapers aren’t substitutes for veterinary care—they’re tools to help manage issues; they aren’t cures.

Talk to your veterinarian before putting your dog in a diaper, especially if you’re doing so because of a medical problem that requires treatment. For example, if your dog experiences incontinence, they should be evaluated by a vet.

If you’ve been using diapers on your dog and they develop an infection or skin irritation, let your vet know so you can provide prompt treatment.

Dog Diapers Help Keep Your Pup Comfortable and Your Home Clean

Dog diapers can be useful for certain health and hygiene needs, from incontinence to house training. For the best results, choose the right style that’s fitted properly. Change it often, and monitor your pet’s comfort. Remember, your veterinarian can discuss the pros and cons of diapers for your unique dog and their specific needs, as well as give pointers on choosing the ideal product and using it correctly.