PETBOOK https://www.petbook-magazine.com/ The magazine for all pet owners and lovers Fri, 13 Nov 2026 11:00:26 -0500 en-US hourly 1 Animal Hoarding Case Near Ludwigsburg: 49 Cats Rescued From Neglected Home–Owner Faces Potential Ban on Keeping Animals https://www.petbook-magazine.com/animal-protection/49-cats-rescued-from-neglected-home-owner-faces-potential-ban-on-keeping-animals Fri, 13 Nov 2026 10:53:00 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63422 Three floors filled with trash and feces and 49 cats, some of which lacked necessary medical care. In Bietigheim-Bissingen, emergency responders had to rescue numerous cats from a neglected environment in early November 2026. What they found there shocked even experienced animal welfare workers. The Ludwigsburg animal shelter now faces a significant challenge in accommodating …

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]]> ]]> Three floors filled with trash and feces and 49 cats, some of which lacked necessary medical care. In Bietigheim-Bissingen, emergency responders had to rescue numerous cats from a neglected environment in early November 2026. What they found there shocked even experienced animal welfare workers. The Ludwigsburg animal shelter now faces a significant challenge in accommodating the animals. According to the veterinary office, a ban on animal ownership is being considered against the owner.

]]> Quiz for Animal Experts: Can You Tell the Difference Between Wolves and Dogs? https://www.petbook-magazine.com/dogs/can-you-tell-the-difference-between-wolves-and-dogs Fri, 13 Nov 2026 09:29:10 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63425 Wolf or dog? This mix-up ended in late March 2026 in Hamburg-Altona with a bite to the face. According to reports, a woman tried to free an animal from a shopping arcade, thinking it was a dog. The wolf reacted out of fear and stress. Would you recognize the difference? Find out in our quiz! …

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]]> ]]> Wolf or dog? This mix-up ended in late March 2026 in Hamburg-Altona with a bite to the face. According to reports, a woman tried to free an animal from a shopping arcade, thinking it was a dog. The wolf reacted out of fear and stress. Would you recognize the difference? Find out in our quiz!

]]> In just 0.2 seconds!: Are Crows Smarter Than Humans? A New Study Reveals https://www.petbook-magazine.com/birds/are-crows-smarter-than-humans-a-new-study-reveals Fri, 13 Nov 2026 08:30:00 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63411 Crows have an impressive memory and are known for their clever problem-solving skills. But apparently, they also excel in quick thinking: A new study shows that the birds even outperform humans in a specific task. What is behind their remarkable reaction speed? Crows Decide Faster Than Humans Crows are not only known for their intelligence …

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]]> ]]> Crows have an impressive memory and are known for their clever problem-solving skills. But apparently, they also excel in quick thinking: A new study shows that the birds even outperform humans in a specific task. What is behind their remarkable reaction speed?

]]> Dog Trainer Reveals: People Who Are Barked at Most Often https://www.petbook-magazine.com/dogs/people-who-are-barked-at-most-often Fri, 13 Nov 2026 08:28:59 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=61139 A hoodie, a long beard, or quick movements: Sometimes just a small thing is enough to make a dog suddenly start barking. Other people, however, are completely ignored. But why do dogs react so sensitively to certain people? Dog trainer Katharina Marioth explains in an interview with PETBOOK what characteristics might be behind this behavior …

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]]> ]]> A hoodie, a long beard, or quick movements: Sometimes just a small thing is enough to make a dog suddenly start barking. Other people, however, are completely ignored. But why do dogs react so sensitively to certain people? Dog trainer Katharina Marioth explains in an interview with PETBOOK what characteristics might be behind this behavior and how owners can train their dogs to stop it.

]]> Goldcrest: How Germany’s Smallest Bird Survives Winter https://www.petbook-magazine.com/birds/how-germanys-smallest-bird-survives-winter Fri, 13 Nov 2026 06:07:00 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63397 Weighing only five to six grams, it must endure subzero temperatures every winter night and looks like Germany’s angriest bird: the goldcrest. The NABU considers it one of the smallest and lightest birds in Europe. How such a tiny bird survives the cold season is a small survival story. PETBOOK introduces it. What does the …

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]]> ]]> Weighing only five to six grams, it must endure subzero temperatures every winter night and looks like Germany’s angriest bird: the goldcrest. The NABU considers it one of the smallest and lightest birds in Europe. How such a tiny bird survives the cold season is a small survival story. PETBOOK introduces it.

]]> Nutrition Expert Provides Insight: Can Cats Eat Sausage, Salami, and Ham? https://www.petbook-magazine.com/cats/can-cats-eat-sausage-salami-and-ham Fri, 13 Nov 2026 00:06:00 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63386 Cats are carnivores and interested in anything with a strong smell. The scent of sausage, salami, or ham is irresistibly attractive to cats. That’s why every cat owner likely knows the situation where begging is common, especially at the breakfast table. Giving a piece of sausage or ham—there’s nothing wrong with that, right? Could it …

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]]> ]]> Cats are carnivores and interested in anything with a strong smell. The scent of sausage, salami, or ham is irresistibly attractive to cats. That’s why every cat owner likely knows the situation where begging is common, especially at the breakfast table. Giving a piece of sausage or ham—there’s nothing wrong with that, right? Could it even be dangerous for my cat? This question is answered by our PETBOOK author and health consultant for dogs and cats, Philine Ebert.

]]> Fact or Fallacy: Do Horses Really See the World Seven Times Larger? https://www.petbook-magazine.com/horses/do-horses-really-see-the-world-seven-times-larger Thu, 12 Nov 2026 10:57:00 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63389 How do horses actually see the world? Do they really see seven times larger than humans? And can these animals look forward even though their eyes are on the sides? These are questions that intrigue not only laypeople but also long-time horse enthusiasts. PETBOOK delves into these very questions. How Do Horses See? Horses always …

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]]> ]]> How do horses actually see the world? Do they really see seven times larger than humans? And can these animals look forward even though their eyes are on the sides? These are questions that intrigue not only laypeople but also long-time horse enthusiasts. PETBOOK delves into these very questions.

]]> A Bite Can Trigger a Fever: These Poisonous Spiders Live in Germany https://www.petbook-magazine.com/wildlife/these-venomous-spiders-live-in-germany Thu, 12 Nov 2026 08:04:11 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=61807 Some find them fascinating, others terrifying. But one thing is certain: Spiders leave no one indifferent. Whether you're an arachnophobe or an arachnophile, it's good to know which are the most venomous spiders living in Germany. PETBOOK provides an overview.

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]]> ]]> Venomous spiders are not only found in distant lands. There are species in Germany whose bites can have unpleasant consequences for humans. A native spider can even cause severe pain, swelling, and fever. PETBOOK provides an overview of which spiders are found here and how dangerous they really are.

]]> From Cream Cheese to Parmesan: Veterinarian Explains: Can Cats Eat Cheese? https://www.petbook-magazine.com/cats/veterinarian-explains-can-cats-eat-cheese Thu, 12 Nov 2026 04:32:18 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=51031 If you've ever treated yourself to a piece of cheese at home, you've likely noticed that cats are quite interested in it too. But is feeding cheese to cats actually healthy? We asked pet nutrition expert Julia Fritz from Napfcheck for her insights.

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]]> ]]> Anyone who occasionally enjoys a piece of cheese at home has likely noticed that cats are also very interested in it. But is feeding cheese to cats healthy? And are there differences among the seemingly countless varieties? We asked pet nutrition expert Julia Fritz from Napfcheck.

]]> Is It Dead?: Why Spiders Molt and What Happens During the Process https://www.petbook-magazine.com/wildlife/why-spiders-molt-and-what-happens-during-the-process Wed, 11 Nov 2026 10:41:00 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63374 A seemingly dead spider that’s been hanging in the corner of the room or in a web for ages? A closer look reveals: It’s not a “real” animal anymore. Spiders must regularly shed their old skin to grow. What’s left behind is an empty shell that looks deceptively real. Biologist and editor Saskia Schneider, who …

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]]> ]]> A seemingly dead spider that’s been hanging in the corner of the room or in a web for ages? A closer look reveals: It’s not a “real” animal anymore. Spiders must regularly shed their old skin to grow. What’s left behind is an empty shell that looks deceptively real. Biologist and editor Saskia Schneider, who kept spiders for years, explains how molting works, why it can be dangerous for the animals, and what owners of tarantulas and jumping spiders should know.

]]> Expert Provides Answers: Can Animals Have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders? https://www.petbook-magazine.com/advice-service/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-in-animals-is-it-real Wed, 11 Nov 2026 07:43:00 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63348 Some dogs chase their own tails for hours or lick their paws until the skin is raw. People with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) are familiar with such behaviors. They repeat the same actions over and over, even though it doesn’t benefit them. But does this also occur in animals? The short answer: There are behaviors that …

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]]> ]]> Some dogs chase their own tails for hours or lick their paws until the skin is raw. People with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) are familiar with such behaviors. They repeat the same actions over and over, even though it doesn’t benefit them. But does this also occur in animals? The short answer: There are behaviors that closely resemble human compulsions. Whether it’s the same is debated among researchers. PETBOOK spoke with veterinarian Nicholas Dodman, who has researched compulsive behavior in animals at Tufts University in the U.S. He explains what is known about obsessive-compulsive disorders in animals, which animals can be affected, and when owners should definitely take action.

]]> Not just people: Even Dogs Can Get “Winter Depression” https://www.petbook-magazine.com/dogs/even-dogs-can-get-winter-depression Tue, 10 Nov 2026 23:49:00 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63371 When it's dark and cold outside for extended periods, some people develop what's known as winter depression or seasonal blues. But can dogs also experience winter depression? An expert explains.

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]]> ]]> When it’s long dark, cold, and gray outside, it affects many people’s moods. But can dogs also develop a kind of winter depression? Less daylight, cold, and a changed metabolism can impact the psyche and behavior of our four-legged friends. An expert explains to PETBOOK how owners can recognize possible signs and how they can support their dog during the dark season.

]]> His parents were siblings.: Despite War and Disability, Boomer Fights His Way Back to Life https://www.petbook-magazine.com/animal-protection/despite-war-and-disability-boomer-fights-his-way-back-to-life Tue, 10 Nov 2026 06:48:00 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63338 Boomer survived the war in Ukraine, lost his siblings, and endured a long evacuation through the crisis area. Today, the approximately 100-pound gentle dog with a neurological impairment lives in a partner animal shelter in Bulgaria. He is safe there, but far from settled. In a conversation with PETBOOK, Stephanie Gauermann from the Marfino Animal …

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]]> ]]> Boomer survived the war in Ukraine, lost his siblings, and endured a long evacuation through the crisis area. Today, the approximately 100-pound gentle dog with a neurological impairment lives in a partner animal shelter in Bulgaria. He is safe there, but far from settled. In a conversation with PETBOOK, Stephanie Gauermann from the Marfino Animal Protection Association discusses what Boomer had to endure, the consequences of irresponsible breeding, and why more dogs with severe disabilities need special help.

]]> How to Prevent It: Why Do Birds Fly Into Windows? https://www.petbook-magazine.com/birds/why-do-birds-fly-into-windows Tue, 10 Nov 2026 00:01:00 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=58230 A dull thud against the window, and it's happened. A bird has flown full force into the glass pane and now lies motionless on the ground or windowsill. But why do such accidents keep occurring? PETBOOK explains why birds fly into windows and how you can prevent this with simple measures.

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]]> ]]> A dull thud against the window, and it’s happened: A bird has flown into the window and lies motionless on the ground. According to NABU, windows and glass facades are the most common cause of death for wild birds, with the nature conservation association estimating around 100 million bird deaths per year. The State Working Group of Bird Protection Stations (LAG VSW) suspects even more, as injured animals often die later in a bush. While large office buildings are more dangerous than private homes, windows at home can also be made bird-safe. PETBOOK explains why birds fly into windows and how to easily prevent it.

]]> Trainer Explains 11 Clear Signs: Does My Dog Really Love Me? Here’s How to Find Out https://www.petbook-magazine.com/dogs/does-my-dog-really-love-me-heres-how-to-find-out Mon, 09 Nov 2026 11:02:00 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63334 You come home, and your dog goes wild with joy, or it lies quietly, sighs, and leans against your leg. But does it really love you, or are you just the person with the food bowl? Dogs can form a deep bond with their humans, but they often show their affection differently than we expect. …

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]]> ]]> You come home, and your dog goes wild with joy, or it lies quietly, sighs, and leans against your leg. But does it really love you, or are you just the person with the food bowl? Dogs can form a deep bond with their humans, but they often show their affection differently than we expect. Dog trainer Katharina Marioth explains which behaviors are true signs of your dog’s love and how to recognize how it truly feels about you.

]]> Smarter Than Technology?: Mouse, Plush Toy, Sausage–How Cats Outsmart This AI Cat Flap https://www.petbook-magazine.com/news/mouse-plush-toy-sausage-how-cats-outsmart-this-ai-cat-flap Mon, 09 Nov 2026 07:02:00 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63321 According to the manufacturer, “Flappie” is the world’s first AI cat flap that can distinguish cats through facial recognition. The intelligent cat flap is designed to prevent cats from bringing mice and other prey into the house. However, the developers apparently didn’t anticipate the cleverness of some animals: Some cats quickly figured out how to …

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]]> ]]> According to the manufacturer, “Flappie” is the world’s first AI cat flap that can distinguish cats through facial recognition. The intelligent cat flap is designed to prevent cats from bringing mice and other prey into the house. However, the developers apparently didn’t anticipate the cleverness of some animals: Some cats quickly figured out how to bypass the lock.

]]> Often Misinterpreted: What Your Dog’s Sigh Really Means https://www.petbook-magazine.com/dogs/what-your-dogs-sigh-really-means Mon, 09 Nov 2026 04:36:18 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=61477 The dog lies down in its basket, stretches out its legs, and sighs deeply. Many owners then wonder: Is my dog annoyed, sad, or just tired? When dogs sigh, it can express contentment, relaxation, or tiredness, but it can also indicate boredom, stress, or discomfort. What it means largely depends on the situation in which …

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]]> ]]> The dog lies down in its basket, stretches out its legs, and sighs deeply. Many owners then wonder: Is my dog annoyed, sad, or just tired? When dogs sigh, it can express contentment, relaxation, or tiredness, but it can also indicate boredom, stress, or discomfort. What it means largely depends on the situation in which your dog sighs.

]]> Biologist Explains: Why Crows Look Different in Eastern Germany https://www.petbook-magazine.com/wildlife/why-crows-look-different-in-eastern-germany Mon, 09 Nov 2026 03:10:58 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=57651 In western Germany, when you see a crow, it’s usually a completely black bird. East of the Elbe, however, many crows have striking gray-black plumage. Behind this clear boundary lies an astonishing development that began during the last ice age and continues to influence the birds’ mate selection today. Why Crows East of the Elbe …

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]]> ]]> In western Germany, when you see a crow, it’s usually a completely black bird. East of the Elbe, however, many crows have striking gray-black plumage. Behind this clear boundary lies an astonishing development that began during the last ice age and continues to influence the birds’ mate selection today.

]]> Mysterious Physical Trait: Why Do Dogs Have a Small “Pocket” on Their Ear? https://www.petbook-magazine.com/dogs/why-do-dogs-have-a-small-pocket-on-their-ear Fri, 06 Nov 2026 11:07:00 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63324 If you take a closer look at your dog’s ear, you might notice a small skin fold at the lower edge of the ear flap. It looks like a tiny pocket and even has its own name: “Henry’s Pocket.” But what is the purpose of this unusual body feature? To this day, science cannot definitively …

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]]> ]]> If you take a closer look at your dog’s ear, you might notice a small skin fold at the lower edge of the ear flap. It looks like a tiny pocket and even has its own name: “Henry’s Pocket.” But what is the purpose of this unusual body feature? To this day, science cannot definitively answer this question.

]]> Missing!: When Should I Worry if My Cat Is Missing? https://www.petbook-magazine.com/cats/when-should-i-worry-if-my-cat-is-missing Fri, 06 Nov 2026 10:20:22 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63254 For eleven years, cat Perla was missing. In 2015, she disappeared without a trace in Langenhagen near Hanover, and in early April 2026, she was discovered at a feeding station. Thanks to her microchip, Perla is now back with her family. Her case is unusual but not unique. PETBOOK explains how long cats typically stay …

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]]> ]]> For eleven years, cat Perla was missing. In 2015, she disappeared without a trace in Langenhagen near Hanover, and in early April 2026, she was discovered at a feeding station. Thanks to her microchip, Perla is now back with her family. Her case is unusual but not unique. PETBOOK explains how long cats typically stay away, when owners should be concerned, and why they shouldn’t give up hope too quickly.

]]> Expert Reveals: Why Dogs Approach People Who Fear Them https://www.petbook-magazine.com/dogs/why-dogs-approach-people-who-fear-them Fri, 06 Nov 2026 09:48:03 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=54348 Not everyone likes dogs–some are even afraid of them. Yet, these very people seem to exert a magical attraction on four-legged friends. Is it all just imagination? No, there's actually something to it, as dog trainer Katharina Marioth reveals in an interview with PETBOOK.

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]]> ]]> Not everyone likes dogs—some are even afraid of them. It’s all the more surprising that these individuals are often approached by dogs more frequently. Many dog owners know the situation: Their own dog runs up to a neighbor or friend who actually prefers to keep their distance from dogs. This is no coincidence. Why dogs exhibit this behavior and what’s behind it is explained by dog trainer and canine behavior expert Katharina Marioth in an interview with PETBOOK.

]]> Team Has Worked Together for 13 Years: How Assistance Dog Sophie Changed Kerstin’s Life https://www.petbook-magazine.com/dogs/how-assistance-dog-sophie-changed-kerstins-life Fri, 06 Nov 2026 06:14:09 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63318 When Kerstin Kleinschmidt falls in a dog park with her wheelchair, her assistance dog Sophie is off-leash. But instead of running away, she stays by Kerstin’s side without a command until passersby help her up. A moment that shows how closely the two are bonded after many years together. Sophie makes Kerstin’s daily life easier, …

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]]> ]]> When Kerstin Kleinschmidt falls in a dog park with her wheelchair, her assistance dog Sophie is off-leash. But instead of running away, she stays by Kerstin’s side without a command until passersby help her up. A moment that shows how closely the two are bonded after many years together. Sophie makes Kerstin’s daily life easier, picking up objects, opening doors, and giving her more independence. But now a big change is coming: In December, Sophie will turn 13 and retire. PETBOOK tells the touching story of how Sophie became more than just an assistance dog for Kerstin.

]]> For More Animal Protection: Bundestag Approves Camera Surveillance in German Slaughterhouses https://www.petbook-magazine.com/news/bundestag-approves-camera-surveillance-in-german-slaughterhouses Fri, 06 Nov 2026 04:06:35 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63306 On November 5, 2026, the Bundestag passed a mandate requiring video surveillance in large slaughterhouses, with support from the governing coalition. In recent years, animal rights activists have repeatedly exposed abuses in individual facilities using hidden cameras: employees hitting and kicking animals or twisting the heads and bodies of live chickens. PETBOOK explains what changes …

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]]> ]]> On November 5, 2026, the Bundestag passed a mandate requiring video surveillance in large slaughterhouses, with support from the governing coalition. In recent years, animal rights activists have repeatedly exposed abuses in individual facilities using hidden cameras: employees hitting and kicking animals or twisting the heads and bodies of live chickens. PETBOOK explains what changes and why there is criticism.

]]> Too Little, Too Rough, Too Boring: Many People Play Incorrectly With Their Cats Without Realizing It https://www.petbook-magazine.com/cats/many-people-play-incorrectly-with-their-cats-without-realizing-it Fri, 06 Nov 2026 03:57:41 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=57904 Not only do young kittens love to play, but cats also enjoy hunting and playing well into old age—especially with their humans. Unfortunately, people often make common mistakes when playing with their cats. PETBOOK reveals what these mistakes are and how to make playtime enjoyable for both the pet and the owner.

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]]> ]]> They swing the cat wand, roll balls across the floor, or encourage their cat to hunt—all with good intentions. Yet, many owners unknowingly make mistakes while playing. PETBOOK author and Ph.D. biologist Dr. Saskia Schneider reveals what these mistakes are and how to engage cats in a way that’s truly cat-friendly.

]]> Antlers Instead of Horns: Why the Siberian Musk Deer Needs 10-Centimeter-Long Canine Teeth https://www.petbook-magazine.com/wildlife/why-the-siberian-musk-deer-needs-10-centimeter-long-canine-teeth Thu, 05 Nov 2026 11:09:00 -0500 https://www.petbook-magazine.com/?p=63300 It looks like a small deer but has two massive tusks in its mouth: The male Siberian musk deer has canine teeth that can extend up to four inches below the upper lip. Despite its appearance, this rare animal is not a dangerous predator but a herbivore. So why does it need these unusual weapons? …

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]]> ]]> It looks like a small deer but has two massive tusks in its mouth: The male Siberian musk deer has canine teeth that can extend up to four inches below the upper lip. Despite its appearance, this rare animal is not a dangerous predator but a herbivore. So why does it need these unusual weapons?

]]>