wisteria poisoning symptoms in dogs

They are poisonous (the pods, that is!) If you're dealing with a plant-eating pooch, the best way to prevent poisoning is to remove the vine. With the right precautions, pet owners can enjoy the beauty of wisteria without putting their pets at risk. Gwaltney-Brant S, Shell L. Veterinary Information Network, Inc. Xylitol Toxicosis (Canine). Don't induce vomiting or do anything besides remove your pet from the area before speaking with a professional. Privacy Policy, circulatory collapse in case of severe poisoning. The pet poisoning symptoms they may produce include stomach upset, depression, chemical burns, renal failure and death. Common antibiotics used for listeria include penicillin, amoxicillin, ampicillin, fluoroquinolones and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Its important to accurately weigh your dog to ensure they are receiving the correct dose, based on size. Be prepared to discuss the signs you have seen in your dog. This is a really important topic to be aware of! Listeria can be found in raw milk and any foods made from raw milk. Pay attention to your dog's breathing. Before planting a new wisteria or keeping an existing one, consider two things. Lethargy. Dogs may experience various symptoms after being exposed to a toxin. In severe cases, pets may experience seizures, coma, and even death. 2023 Wag Labs, Inc. All rights reserved. Browse Toxic Plant Gallery List Poisoning in Dogs. Tobacco: Hyperexcitability, followed by depression, vomiting, incoordination, paralysis, death, Azalea: Vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, heart failure, Foxglove: Heart arrhythmias, heart failure, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, death, Oleander: Drooling, abdominal pain, diarrhea, depression, death, Philodendron: Oral irritation, burns, swelling, drooling. Wisteria. Many pets will accidentally ingest a potentially dangerous nonfood item throughout their life. If you notice your dog is drooling or foaming, try to identify the thing he was chewing on or eating, Remove it from your dog's reach and keep it in case a sample is needed. Bones can cause intestinal perforations and choking hazards. Experts are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Signs typically peak at 8 hours after ingestion and can resolve within 48 hours. A food recall doesnt guarantee that there is Listeria present but is a recall to be on the safe side, check the batch numbers of what is being recalled against what youre using. Topical creams and ointments can cause GI upset. Gwaltney-Brant S, Shell L, Dekker M. Veterinary Information Network, Inc. Grape/Raisin Toxicosis (Canine). The appropriate treatment for poisoning will depend on the type of toxin exposure, how long ago it happened, and the damage that has occurred. Rhododendron. Yes, wisteria can be toxic to cats if ingested. it would be best to have her seen immediately at your nearest veterinarian. If you notice swelling in an area of your dog's body, it could mean trouble. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM. Prevention includes avoiding planting or growing wisteria near areas pets may access, such as near fences. Make sure to place the plant in an area where pets cant get to it. Learn how to create a happy, healthy home for your pet. Lectin is a serious toxin that causes diarrhea, headache, nausea, dehydration, confusion, and death by binding to the surfaces of blood cells in the body, Wisterin glycoside is a saponin sometimes referred to as wistarin or wisterine in the seeds of the wisteria pods that can be lethal if eaten by your dog. Essential oils shouldnt be used in the same areas of the house with your dog. Possible toxin ingestion should be considered unless your dog already has a condition like epilepsy. If you catch your pooch gnawing on any part of a wisteria, remove him from the area immediately. As much as you may try, you may not always be able to keep your pooch away from your wisteria -- or other toxic plants in your yard. Contact with any part of the plant does not cause dermatitis or any other symptoms of poisoning. in the peak of bloom push the rest of the garden from the spotlight as their gnarled vines disappear beneath spring or summer cascades of headily fragrant blooms. Tilley LP, Smith FWK. However, some of the signs may be similar to poisoning and require veterinary intervention. All rights reserved.The ASPCA is a 501(c)(3) non-for-profit organization. Dr. Washington recognizes the importance of education and also works as a freelance veterinary writer. If caught and treated soon enough, dogs can fully recover from anticoagulant rodenticide poisoning with supportive care and a few months of vitamin K supplementation. Plant poisoning. No antidote exists, so supportive care is needed. Dogs that have mild symptoms will recover with a little TLC and medications. When it comes to wisteria poisoning in pets, pet owners need to be aware of the potential dangers to their beloved animals. List all medications and supplements that your dog receives. According to the ASPCA, the main symptoms tend to be gastrointestinal, and include vomiting (sometimes with blood), diarrhea, and depression. Many toxins affect the nervous system and/or muscles. It really will be worth making the efffrt to get each and every single one of them - otherwise poorly & possibly dead puppy + vet's bills as a result. If you suspect that your pet has been poisoned by wisteria, it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately. Wisteria also contains a toxic glycoside called wisterin that is present in the seeds, pods and bark of wisteria plants. Mild symptoms such as slight nausea or diarrhea may be treated symptomatically with gastrointestinal medications and possible pain medications. This often occurs after a dog eats a stimulant such as chocolate, caffeine, or medication. Coconut and coconut oil can irritate the stomach and cause diarrhea. Antidepressant medications can cause neurological issues in dogs. Even in small quantities, xylitol causes liver failure and life-threatening low blood sugar. Clinical signs of essential oil poisoning include GI upset, central nervous system depression, organ damage, and respiratory issues. If you suspect your pet has ingested Wisteria, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. Look for evidence of toxin ingestion and contact your veterinarian. What are the signs of wisteria poisoning in pets? In more severe cases of wisteria poisoning, the veterinarian may also prescribe medications to help control any heart arrhythmias that may be present. Your rabbit's health and safety are very important, and we're glad that you're taking the necessary precautions to ensure that your home is a safe place for your furry friend. Talk to your veterinarian about safe and effective prescription medications to keep fleas and ticks at bay. If aflatoxin levels build up enough in your pet's body, they can cause illness (aflatoxicosis), liver damage, problems with blood clotting, and sometimes even death. Many toxins can work quickly, leading to death or serious illness. Worried about the cost of Listeria treatment? Gwaltney-Brant S, Dekker M, Fisher A. Veterinary Information Network, Inc. Lead Toxicosis (Canine). The bacteria can be passed to dogs and humans in much the same way, through meats, dairy products, and contaminated food. The usual procedure includes prompting emesis (vomiting) with a hydrogen peroxide solution, activated charcoal to absorb the toxins, and maybe a gastric lavage with warm saline to clear any leftover toxin residue in the digestive system. Your dog's chances of having a toxic encounter with a wisteria vine depend on a number of factors. She just ate them. Vomiting is often the first sign of drug ingestion, poisonous plant ingestion, and toxic food ingestion. Some of the most common symptoms of wisteria poisoning in pets include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, excessive salivation, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. If you do not have the space or resources to build a fence or barrier, you can also use a large pot or planter to contain the wisteria. Thank you for your feedback! If you notice your dog displaying any of these symptoms, or if you suspect your dog ingested something toxic, call your veterinarian immediately. Exclude your pet from the area surrounding your wisteria either by fence or tether or, to be on the safest side, remove the plant -- and all other toxic plants -- from your landscape. Wisteria poisoning in pets can be a very serious matter and it is important to take the necessary steps to prevent it. We can assure you that wisteria is toxic to pets, so it is important to keep them away from it. If your pet ingests any part of the wisteria plant, its important to seek medical attention immediately. These include E. coli, salmonella, staphylococcus, and others. Cholecalciferol, or Vitamin D3, rat poison causes a life-threatening increase in calcium levels. Barring that, remove the flowers as soon as they fade to prevent the seeds and pods from developing. Medioimages/Photodisc/Photodisc/Getty Images. Shes eaten socks, slime, plastic toys, grapes, and chocolate before. Before getting houseplants or doing landscaping, be sure to choose dog-safe plants. Lots of things in your kitchen, like raw meat and fish, old eggs, or moldy cheese are breeding grounds for dangerous bacteria. Veterinary Information Network, Inc. Nausea. Some toxins affect the body in ways that can be seen in the mucous membranes (gums, tongue, eyelids, oral cavity). November 2021. Be sure to provide as much information as possible regarding the toxic substance, including package information (if applicable/available), when the exposure occurred, how much was ingested or touched, and any signs your dog is showing. Dog foods have also been found to be contaminated with listeria. Some of the more common household products that can cause issues with dogs include: Treatment is generally supportive. These are definite clues that your veterinarian needs to help properly diagnose your dogs illness. Sago Palm. Signs develop within an hour and are severe. In severe cases, your dog may have: Heart palpitations; Tremors; Seizures; Death; What to Do if You Think Your Dog Has Food Poisoning. Brown seeds grow in bean-like pods after flowering. Contact your vet for advice about the next steps. Depending on your dogs immune system, listeria can be a fatal condition if not treated quickly. The seeds and pods have toxic lectins, found in most types of beans. A blood test can confirm listeria and dogs that are experiencing neurological symptoms, an analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid can also confirm that there is a listeria infection. Some common symptoms to watch for include foaming at the mouth, lethargy, shaking or unusual movements, upset stomach, unusual swelling, pale gums, or behavioral changes. 3. Some of the more common plant poisonings and their clinical signs include: Sago palm: Vomiting, bloody stool, bruises, coagulopathy, liver failure, death, Tulips: Vomiting, depression, diarrhea, drooling, heart issues. 2023 Wag Labs, Inc. All rights reserved. Are all parts of the wisteria plant toxic to pets? Alycia Washington is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) with nearly a decade of experience as a small animal emergency veterinarian. Some of the common and scientific names are: There are two toxic principles in wisteria. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals warns that all parts of wisterias contain two types of toxins. Your dog may need to be kept in for observation and monitoring for at least 24 hours. But if you're a pet parent, it's always worth doing your research before letting your pooch loose near a new plant or flower. Additionally, pet owners should supervise their pets when they are outdoors, as wisteria seeds can be toxic if swallowed. As a toxin takes effect in the body, you may see your dog's temperature rise or fall. Symptoms include vomiting, hyper-salivation, diarrhea, and depression. If you have Wisteria planted in your garden, make sure it is out of reach or securely fenced off. LAXATIVES: The vet may combine the administration of activated charcoal with a laxative.3. Depending on the poison, clinical signs may be minimal, severe, or fatal. For example, a dog may accidentally ingest an appropriate dose of a medication for high blood pressure. Don't attempt to treat him without professional guidance. Behavioral. The leaves are also a telltale sign of wisteria, as they typically have a silvery underside and a glossy top side. Dogs can easily overdose on their own medication or accidentally ingest human medications. In addition to fencing or containing the wisteria, pet owners should also be sure to monitor their pets closely whenever they are in the vicinity of the plants. Xyliltol, an artificial sweetener, can cause low blood sugar which can also make dogs lethargic. In the case of severe poisoning, the vet may additionally administer infusions and anticonvulsant medication. Lead toxicosis occurs with exposure to all forms of lead, causing issues with red blood cells, the GI tract, seizures, and other organ issues. It is essential to know which foods to never give your dog and what to do in the event of an accidental poisoning. Chinaberry tree. Always check ingredient lists for any dangerous foods. If your pet is exhibiting any signs of wisteria poisoning, it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately. The toxins found in wisteria can make your pooch seriously ill - and it can be fatal. This can lead to seizures, tremors, or involuntary muscle spasms. Read on as we answer the question, is wisteria toxic to dogs? - and reveal what to do if indeed you do catch your pooch nibbling on one. Even if the test results take a few days, it is best find out in case the treatment or medication needs to be adjusted when the results come back. Ive already fed her the food. Check, Top female dog names for your new fluffy pal, Welcoming a new pooch into your family? Wisteria vines are a group of flowering vines that are as dangerous as they are beautiful. The symptoms associated with wisteria poisoning in dogs are primarily gastrointestinal including repeated and severe vomiting and diarrhea, sometimes with blood. A dog's face and or limbs may become swollen after toxin exposure. Certain medications can also aid in reducing alcohol toxicosis but can only be prescribed by a veterinarian. Therefore, never feed your dog a raw diet. These cause gastrointestinal irritation and red blood cell damage, leading to anemia. Protect yourself and your pet. Symptoms of wisteria poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea . The first sign of wisteria poisoning in pets is vomiting and/or diarrhea. Your dog's environment is filled with potential toxins that can harm your dog. Dogs explore the world with their noses and mouths, and sometimes they ingest things they shouldn't. Symptoms of foxglove poisoning include drooling, nausea, vomiting, and cardiac arrhythmia or even cardiac arrest. Meats and dairy products are the main causes of listeria in dogs. Look around to see if you can find toxins. Essential oils are not safe alternatives to flea and tick preventatives, Toxic Plants and Their Clinical Signs - Antidotes and Treatments, Anticoagulant Rodenticide Toxicosis (Canine). Prepare for the unexpected by getting a quote from top pet insurance providers. The first step in treating wisteria poisoning in pets is to recognize the symptoms. Some dogs will need oral doses of activated charcoal to absorb toxins from the GI tract before they cause further harm. Contact your veterinarian, an emergency veterinarian, the ASPCAs Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661. Gwaltney-Brant S. Veterinary Information Network, Inc. Nicotine Toxicosis (Canine). Typically, dogs will develop signs and symptoms of the disease in the gastrointestinal tract first Initial physical signs and symptoms typically include chills, fever, and lethargy Depression symptoms are common in dogs Tachycardia (rapid heart beat) and heart murmur are common Causes Continuous muscle tremors or seizure activity can cause body temperature to rise rapidly. Gwaltney-Brant S, Dekker M, Brister J. Veterinary Information Network, Inc. Anticoagulant Rodenticide Toxicosis (Canine). Prune your wisteria plants regularly. It is also important to keep any chemical fertilizers or pesticides used on the plant away from pets as these can be toxic. Message and data rates may apply. Some types of preventatives can cause tremors, seizures, and even death. IV fluids may be necessary. In fact, fatalities of small animals and children have been reported several times over the years. Accidental poisoning in dogs occurs frequently, even with the most attentive pet parents. But, are there any precautions I should take? Dogs with poisoning should receive supportive therapy, based on specific needs and severity of clinical signs. There are two toxic properties in wisteria; lectin and wisterin glycoside. If the listeria infection spreads to your nervous system, signs and symptoms can include: Headache. Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms tend to develop within 24 hours . Once an ingestion is suspected or confirmed, time is critical. Essential oils are not safe alternatives to flea and tick preventatives, as they carry a high risk of toxicity. Here are some tips for pet owners who are growing wisteria: By following these steps, pet owners can ensure that their pets stay safe while they enjoy their beautiful wisteria plants. By knowing what to look for, you may be able to save your dog's life. Dogs are more sensitive to wintergreen oil, sweet birch oil, eucalyptus oil, clove oil, tea tree oil, and pennyroyal oil. But what makes hyacinths toxic to dogs is the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. If you notice your pet chewing on the Wisteria plant, remove them from the area and seek veterinary care if necessary. Pets may also show signs of abdominal pain or discomfort, as well as lethargy and lack of coordination. Are there any treatment options for wisteria poisoning in pets? Wisteria might be pretty but it can have a deadly consequences for your dog. November 2021. All rights reserved. While they are known for their flowing waterfall of hanging blooms, they are also known to be poisonous if just a few seed pods are eaten. Horsechestnut. Flea and tick medication poisoning occurs when pets receive high doses of preventatives. There are different methods to remove the poison from the body: 1. These services charge a fee to the caller but will offer the best treatment options based on evidence. Other than wisteria, what other plants and flowers are poisonous to dogs? Gwaltney-Brant S, Dekker M, Fisher A. Veterinary Information Network, Inc. Lead Toxicosis (Canine). By following these steps, pet owners can help ensure that their furry friends remain safe from the dangers of wisteria. Kaopectate and Pepto Bismol can cause gastrointestinal ulcerations. Do not induce vomiting in your dog without direct instructions from your veterinarian. Chewing and swallowing a wisteria leaf is much less likely to give your pet problems than consuming several seeds. Certain plants can also injure or irritate the skin, especially when chewed. Contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, your veterinarian or another pet poison helpline and be ready to detail when your pup at the wisteria, how much he ate and any symptoms he's displaying at the moment. Try to bring a sample of the wisteria plant with you so the veterinarian will be able to have it tested to determine the exact species. If the ingestion occurred after this time frame, it is less effective but may be attempted for 4-6 hours after ingestion. As naturally curious creatures, dogs take tremendous pleasure in sniffing and licking their way through the plants in their yards, gardens or neighborhoods. Heres what you need to know. If possible, it should be administered within 2 hours after ingestion of the poison, so that the toxin does not enter the bloodstream.2. You can also call your vet immediately instead of a poison control center. The Chinese wisteria is a deciduous vine popular for its strikingly large, light blue to lilac, grape-like flowers. Protect yourself and your pet. January 2018. Ibuprofen and naproxen can cause ulcers, kidney failure, and neurological issues. Exploring the Beauty of Wisteria: Is it a Color? Wisteria poisoning is a serious condition that affects pets, particularly cats, dogs, and horses. Blood loss from rat poison and other toxins that cause bleeding will also make gums appear pale. Depending upon the severity of the symptoms, treatment for listeria will vary. I had a Pembroke Welsh Corgi named Abner who would eat the seed pods on a regular basis and nothing ever happened to him. Wisteria is a climber and can easily be grown over fences or walls, so pet owners should take extra precautions to ensure that their pet can't access it. I feed my dog cooked chicken, mixed veg and dry dog biscuits. That said, treatment for wisteria poisoning often includes inducing vomiting and activated charcoal to absorb the toxins from the system, along with IV fluids to further flush the toxins and rehydrate your dog's system. Listeria is killed by cooking and pasteurization. In some cases, supportive treatment is needed in a hospital environment. It can cause a building of calcium in the lungs called pulmonary mineralization, and it can also cause heart and gastrointestinal tract problems or organ failure. March 2018. Large animals like cattle and horses may graze for days on lantana and ingest large amounts, resulting in more serious illness. Dog poison No. Learn which plants thrive in your Hardiness Zone with our new interactive map! However, consumption of a significant quantity of the seed pods may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea ( NC State University ). If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately. Unlike anticoagulant rodenticides, bromethalin does not have an antidote and treatment is difficult once a dog is showing clinical signs. Many human foods are extremely dangerous to dogs. Therefore, its important for pet owners to take the necessary precautions when growing wisteria in their garden. Wisteria vines are among the more than 700 plants toxic to him, reports the Humane Society. Be a proactive dog owner and closely monitor any raw foods that your dog may be ingesting. Never give your pet a medication or supplement without talking to your doctor about the benefits and risks. Your vet may tell you to come right in, or you may get home care instructions. Jenna Stregowski is the Pet Health and Behavior Editor for. Wisteria can be highly toxic to dogs, to the point of being fatal. The five most common types of poisoning in dogs are: Food poisoning. Panting is normal for dogs most of the time. To prevent your pet from coming into contact with the Wisteria plant, it is important to keep the plant away from your pet and to supervise them closely when they are outside. Death has not been reported in cases of this toxicosis and, like so many other toxicities, no antidote exists, and treatment is aimed at gastrointestinal decontamination. In addition, some toxins, like rat poison, can cause internal bleeding. April 2022. If your dog begins to tremor or twitch involuntarily, it may be a good idea to take a video of the signs. plants. An antidote may be available for the toxin. As we know, there are so many plants that are poisonous to dogs - is wisteria one of them? What pets are most at risk of wisteria poisoning? November 2003. 7: Rodenticides - Unfortunately, many baits used to lure. Watering Frequency for Wisteria: How Often Should You Be Doing It? Tremors. Pet owners should be aware of the potential dangers of wisteria plants and should be sure to keep their pets away from these plants. Poisoning in dogs is a medical emergency. Symptoms of wisteria poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and even seizures. I read cooking the food can kill the bacteria and her food is cooked. The veterinarian will need all the details you have about when your dog ate the wisteria and what symptoms you have seen, if any. Clinical signs may start within a few hours of ingestion, with vomiting as the first symptom. Toxins can adversely affect organs and body functions, causing a dog to feel sick and uncomfortable. There are many causes for a reduction in appetite which may include infections, parasites, foreign objects, dental disorders, hormonal conditions, poisoning, liver disease among other issues; you should try to inspect the inside of the mouth for any dental issues or trauma as well as trying to offer a high quality commercial wet food. My dog seems fine but do i need to get her checked out? Nibbling any part of a wisteria vine also exposes your dog to the toxic glycoside wistarin. Once youve identified which plants are wisteria, the next step is to make sure they are not accessible to your pet. Thank you for your feedback! Fisher A, Gwaltney-Brant S. Veterinary Information Network, Inc. Allium (Garlic/Onion) Toxicosis (Canine). Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM. Discover the Timing of Coffee Harvesting: A Guide to Growing and Enjoying Coffee Year-Round. These can be administered intravenously or absorbed through the conjunctiva. You will also need to know your dog's approximate weight and medical history. Xylitol is a sweetener found in many gums and low-calorie human products like toothpaste, candy, and baked goods. Your veterinarian will do a cursory examination of your dog and ask questions regarding diet, exercise and changes in behavior. Pet owners should be aware of the symptoms of wisteria poisoning and seek veterinary care immediately if their pet is exhibiting any of the symptoms. A Step-by-Step Guide to Pruning Your Wisteria Vine. Severity and prognosis vary based on the drug involved and the amount ingested. The leaves contain toxic glycoside wisterin which causes gastrointestinal complications, including stomach aches, nausea, vomiting (sometimes with blood), diarrhea, and even depressions. When it comes to keeping your pet safe, one of the most important things you can do is prevent them from being exposed to toxic wisteria plants. To prevent wisteria poisoning in pets, it is important to make sure that the plant is not within their reach. However, if the dog doesnt have high blood pressure (perhaps the medication was for another dog in the same household) it could drop the blood pressure to dangerous levels. While not all dogs that have been exposed to listeria will exhibit symptoms or become ill, those that do show symptoms will have varying degrees of illness and should always be thoroughly examined by your veterinarian. So if you catch (or even suspect) your pooch has been eating wisteria, it's important to get in touch with your veterinarian as soon as possible and follow their advice - whether your pooch is currently displaying symptoms or not. Discovering the Truth: Is Wisteria an Evergreen Plant? Diagnosis Good Day i have a scottish terrier, my dog is refusing to eat for a week now, we do feed him dry dog food and also a raw diet we mix the 2. Im really worried about her. She currently works as a relief veterinarian for various emergency and specialty hospitals. Time is of the essence in many toxicities, so symptoms should not be ignored. In some severe cases, death has occurred. Easter lily, tiger lily, rubrum lily, Japanese show lily, and some species of the day lily can cause stomach upset in dogs, as well as kidney failure in cats. Plan the perfect garden with our interactive tool , The Humane Society of the United States: Plants Potentially Toxic to Pets, ASPCA About Us: Plants and Trees: Wisteria, Pet Poison Help Hotline: Plants With Cardiac Glycosides, Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences: Plants Poisonous to Livestock -- Wisteria, Pet Poison Helpline: Emergency Instructions, California Poison Control System: Know Your Plants. Alcohol is absorbed within an hour in a dogs stomach, although food can slow this process. The answer to this question is yes, all parts of the wisteria plant are toxic to pets. Pet parents should use caution when planting or bringing plants in the house. Horses are also at risk, as the pods are high in sugar and can be attractive to them if they have access to the plant. All plants have the potential to cause gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting and diarrhea. Wisteria is a plant in the Fabaceae family, and it contains a toxic compound called wisterin. The hospitalization rate is 94%, meaning that of the . According to the ASPCA, the main symptoms tend to be gastrointestinal, and include vomiting (sometimes with blood), diarrhea, and depression. VOMITING: The vet can also induce vomiting using medication to remove the toxin from the body. Contact your vet for further advice. Since listeria is a bacterium that is found soil, water and some food sources it can be relatively easy for your dog to be exposed to and become infected. If possible, bring along a piece of the plant with you. Wisteria poisoning in dogs is a serious condition that can lead to death. Twitching. Many toxins cause gastrointestinal irritation that leads to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Don't allow your dog to roam off-leash in unsecured areas, and supervise outdoor time. Here are just a couple more to be aware of: Join our global community of pet lovers exchanging in-home pet care for unique homestays around the world.