Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Dogs
  3. Getting Started
  4. Evergreens

Pet profiles: The DevOps pack that keeps PawTracks up and running

By
Add as a preferred source on Google

It’s been raining cats and dogs over here in the Pet Profile series, and this week is no exception. But for the first time ever, you’ll get both cats and dogs in one interview! Yep, that’s right—our first interspecies family is finally here.

Before we jump into all this four-legged cuteness, let’s take a minute to spotlight some of the pets we’ve met in past profiles. Last month we featured Prince, a noble Weimaraner with a zest for life. The only duos we’ve had so far include Armie and Harpo, two sweet Corgis, as well as felines Snowflake and Oliver. These kitty brothers are excited to welcome two more cats to the Pet Profiles team today, but before we jump in—let’s meet the pet parent, Josh Vaughn-Uding.

A German Shepherd and a tabby cat sleep together on a carpet
Image used with permission by copyright holder

The parent and the pets

Hi, Josh—thanks for letting us take a glimpse into your life with your pets. Before we get to the good stuff, we’d love to know what you do here at Digital Trends Media Group. What is your role?

Recommended Videos

DevOps Engineer— I make sure that digitaltrends.com and all of our Affinity Sites (including PawTracks) are always up and running correctly. I also support dev, SEO, and the data team in whatever capacity they need me to.

Sounds like many of us here at DTMG have you to thank for keeping our sites running smoothly—so thank you! What about at the end of the workday—how many pets do you have ready for your affection when you’re off?

I have 3 pets.

You have a whole pack! What are your fur babies’ names?

Pixel (German Shepherd), Scratch (House Tiger), and Roxy (Angel of death for bats).

Okay—color us intrigued. Now we have to know, what are your pets’ breeds?

German Shepherd, House Tiger, and Tabby cat.

[Editor’s note: House Tigers, also known as Toygers, are fairly large domestic cats that look an awful lot like tigers. They are the result of careful breeding and can be highly sought after as pets.]

What an interesting mix! How do you feel about your pets’ breeds? What led you to choose them?

German Shepherds are the best dogs ever. Scratch is a useless waste of space, and Roxy is the cattiest cat that’s ever catted.

Aw—poor Scratch! I’m sure your little tiger is a delight. Do these breeds fit well with your lifestyle? Why or why not?

Yes— I don’t lock my doors. I don’t need to. I have Pixel.

[Note: check out our guide to training a German Shepard to be a guard dog if this is something you’re interested in.]

Are there any specific traits or characteristics of your pets’ breeds that you admire?

Pixel is very affectionate, a protector.

A German Shepherd and a Toyger cat sniff each other
Image used with permission by copyright holder

All about Pixel, Scratch, and Roxy

We love that in a dog! How did Pixel and the kitties come to be part of your home?

Pixel was purchased from a breeder. Scratch and Roxy are both rescues.

Tell us some of your favorite things about your pets: quirks, funny behaviors, or anything, really!

Pixel Loves jelly beans.

[Note: As colorful and delicious as jelly beans and other candies are for people, some might contain ingredients that are not considered safe for dogs. Be especially careful to stay away from sugar-free candy, as artificial sweeteners–especially Xylitol, or birch sugar–are highly toxic to canines.]

Do any of your pets have any special needs or other medical concerns? If so, how do you address these needs?

Yes—German Shepherds need jobs. They are, after all, working dogs. Pixel’s job is “Ball”. She takes it everywhere. Also very useful for exercise.

That’s such a smart way to help your pup stay active and mentally stimulated! What are her favorite toys?

Pixel has two small red plush dogs. She’s had them since she was a puppy. They are her dolls. she grooms them and hides them in dens.

What type of food do you feed your pets?

Pixel eats Purina One Smart Balance in chicken flavor. The cats get cat food.

Yum! Where do you purchase your pets’ food and treats?

Fred Meyer

And finally, are you registered for pet insurance?

No.

Thanks again, Josh (Pixel, Scratch, and Roxy, too) for letting us take a peek at your lives together. This is the first time we’ve featured pets of multiple species at the same time, and we’re so here for it! It’s so special to witness the bonding and love—or at least tolerance—between interspecies siblings. Keep it up!

Gabrielle LaFrank
Gabrielle LaFrank
Former Author
Topics

Editors’ Recommendations

These 7 guard dog breeds will protect you fiercely
Dog breeds that are some of the best personal guards you'll find
An Akita sitting on the bed

Most dogs are loyal and loving animals. That’s why we know them as humans’ best friends. They’d do anything for us. For some dogs, “anything” means protecting us with their lives, and these breeds make the best guard dogs. Many dogs have a natural defensiveness — it’s instinctual. They’ve evolved to protect the family they love. You’ll notice these pups keeping a watchful eye on your property. They may bark to alert you when your friend arrives or the mail gets delivered.
Remember, guard animals mean well. They aren’t trying to be vicious, but instead, they want to keep you and your home safe and sound. Some prospective pet parents want this quality in a dog. If that’s you, consider these breeds that make the best guard dogs.

What is the most protective breed of dog?

Read more
How often do dogs really need vaccines?
What is the dog vaccine schedule? The answer can vary
A dog getting vaccine vet holding syringe

As a pet parent, you want what's best for your dog. Ensuring your pet stays up to date on vaccinations is essential. With human health, the recommendations are usually more straightforward — professionals recommend that people in certain age groups or with specific conditions receive vaccines at certain times. Some, like the flu shot, require regular boosters. Others provide long-term — and even lifelong — immunity.

What about pets, though? How often do dogs need vaccines? The answers aren't always so straightforward, so working with your veterinarian to determine the best course for your dog is vital. This guide to dog vaccinations will provide a blueprint and hopefully spark a helpful conversation about your pet's health with their veterinarian.
How often do dogs need vaccines?

Read more
Why do dogs love tennis balls? What’s behind the obsession
Playing fetch with tennis balls is iconic for good reason
A West Highland white terrier runs and jumps after a tennis ball on the beach

What's a dog's favorite activity? Playing with tennis balls might top the list, or at least come close. The second you grab one of these orbs, you should expect Fido to jump with excitement about the impending game. Even small dogs may go after a tennis ball if you show them how it's done.

So why do dogs love tennis balls? You can explain this partly through evolution, but with a bit of human intervention thrown in. Playing with your dog helps get them exercise and serves as a form of mental stimulation, so we highly encourage you to throw a catch (or chase) now and then. When you discover the evolution behind this game, it can also make it more fun for you, the human.
Why do dogs love tennis balls?

Read more