FairyDust News!

Happy April! 🌸☀️ This month, we've got triple the cuteness with our Pups of the Month—three adorable little white fluffballs guaranteed to brighten your day! 😍 🐶🐶🐶 Get ready for some serious smiles

Exploring Canine Chuckles

If you've ever seen a dog's wide, open-mouthed "smile," you've probably wondered—can dogs actually laugh? While humans think of laughter as a reaction to humor, dogs express joy and playfulness in their own unique way.

The Science of Canine Laughter

Patricia Simonet, an ethologist from Sierra Nevada University, has made groundbreaking discoveries in canine research. By observing 120 dogs over six weeks, she uncovered evidence that dogs do, in fact, laugh—just not quite like humans.

Simonet recorded dogs during play sessions, capturing their barks, playful growls, and a distinct sound. This sound, which she identified as canine laughter, is a breathy, pant-like noise that dogs make while having fun. Moreover, when Simonet played back the recording, the dogs stopped to listen intently before joining in with their "laugh." Laughter is just as contagious for dogs as it is for us!

How to Spot a Dog's Laugh

Your dog's laugh might not sound like a giggle, but it's unmistakable once you know what to look for. Here are some clues:

• A "smiling" expression: Their mouth is open wide, stretching from ear to ear.
• Relaxed body language: Their ears are back, their eyes are soft, and their tongue often hangs out.
• A rhythmic, breathy pant: It's an airy sound without vocalization, like "hhuh-hhah-hhuh-hhah."

These joyful sounds are most common during playtime with their favorite people or doggie friends.

Do Dogs Understand Humor?

While we can't know for sure, dogs have the cognitive abilities of a 2- to 3-year-old child—an age when kids are brimming with laughter and mischief. It's no stretch to think dogs might enjoy a good joke, like teasing their playmates during a game.

Studies have also shown that dogs who laugh more tend to have lower stress and anxiety levels. So not only is laughter fun, but it's also good for your pup's well-being!

Laugh Together!

Want to hear your dog laugh? Try a relaxed play session with their favorite toy or game. You might find yourself laughing along with them—and strengthening your bond in the process.

You can hear the dogs laughing in this video.

A Silver Lining for Your Cat's Playtime

We've explored catnip in the past—many cats respond to its magic, but not all do. If your feline doesn't show interest in catnip or you want to offer them something new, Silvervine might be the perfect alternative. Interestingly, more cats respond to Silvervine than to catnip, making it a great option for enhancing your cat's playtime.

Silvervine is a plant native to East Asia cherished for its effects on cats. Like catnip, it contains natural compounds that stimulate your cat's pheromone receptors. Its use dates back centuries and may have been introduced to cats as early as 1906, when scholars at Harvard University imported the herb from China.

The effects are similar to catnip—cats may exhibit behaviors such as rolling, licking, rubbing, or even a burst of playful energy. These effects usually appear almost immediately and last about 30 minutes before wearing off.

One of Silvervine's key compounds is nepetalactol, which triggers the reward and pleasure centers of a cat's brain. This creates a sense of euphoria and relaxation for most cats. Importantly, Silvervine is non-addictive, making it a safe and enjoyable treat.

Silvervine offers multiple benefits, including:

• Stress Relief: Reduces anxiety in nervous or stressed cats.
• Encouraging Activity: Promotes exercise and play, essential for a cat's physical and mental well-being.
• Oral Health: Silvervine chew sticks can help clean your cat's teeth and improve oral hygiene.
• Enrichment: Provides mental stimulation, keeping your cat engaged and happy.

This herb is available in several forms. As a powder, sprinkle it on scratching posts, toys, or your cat's favorite play area. It can also be used in cat toys alone or mixed with catnip for extra fun or in chew sticks or disks (with supervision, so they don't eat them). As with any treat, moderation is key. Start with a small amount and monitor your cat's reaction.

Silvervine products are available at pet supply stores and online retailers like Chewy. Choose high-quality, reputable brands to ensure safety and enjoyment.

Why not let your cat experience the joy of Silvervine this year? It's safe, stimulating, and non-toxic—even for dogs in multi-pet households. Your cat will thank you with purrs, playfulness, and plenty of happy moments.

Great Pet Links!

April:

• Heartworm Awareness Month
• Canine Fitness Month
• National Frog Month