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Why ‘Alpha Leader’ Training Has Been Debunked In Dogs

For many years, we’ve been told that we need to be the leader of the pack to gain our dog’s respect. Many training programs have led us to believe that our dog’s undesirable behavior is due to them asserting dominance, essentially making dominance a personality trait in our pups. Dog trainers around the world have begun to question these methods in the last five years, arguing that positive reinforcement is the way to go. So how is dominance training harmful … Read more

Vet Clinics Struggle To Keep Up In The Aftermath Of The Pandemic Pet Boom

pandemic pets

With so many people in quarantine during the pandemic, animal lovers everywhere realized they had extra time to care for a new furry friend. This led to what is now referred to as the “pandemic pet boom,” giving so many dogs and cats a forever family to call their own. While this was a welcome change for the animal rescue world, it led to some unexpected repercussions that are now impacting both veterinary professionals and fur parents alike. The Pandemic … Read more

Hero Dog Saves Feathered Friends From An Alligator Attack

Beauty, the black Labrador Retriever, is slowly recovering after saving her ducky siblings from an alligator attack. Since they were tiny ducklings, Beauty has looked after Crest, Downy, and Dot and treated them with love and care. She was even once thought to be “missing” when the ducks wandered off and got stuck in a thornbush. Beauty stayed by their sides and laid next to the bush until her parents came to find them. So, when an even bigger and … Read more

Woman Shares Emotional Reunion With Yorkie Lost Before Cross-Country Move

Woman and Yorkie Reunited

Time and distance can’t break the bond between a human and their dog. Kenyetta Tyler’s Yorkie named Coco went missing seven months ago, and she has moved across the country since then. Tyler feared she might never see Coco again. But the second someone found the Yorkie, Tyler traveled to pick her up as quickly as possible. Tyler and Coco had the most heartwarming reunion ever because neither of them could contain their excitement. Their story is a great reminder … Read more

A Vet Explains What You Need To Know About Pet Insurance For Your Dog

Pet insurance is not like human health insurance. It is designed to give you peace of mind by helping you prepare for the costs of large medical issues. Subscribers pay a monthly premium (prices vary depending on plan and company) instead of being surprised by a major illness or injury. It is like a safety net to catch you when you fall. It is certainly nice to have in an event where price is the last thing that you want … Read more

Utah Ice Center Gives Dying Dog The Gift Of One Last Roll In The Snow

Maggie was a big, hardy pooch who loved going on outdoor adventures with her parents and many canine pals. Her life was filled with joy and excitement as she explored the beautiful state of Utah with those she cherished most. When Maggie’s journey reached its final days due to terminal cancer, her humans wanted to give her one final gift. They posted to Facebook and reached out to the Salt Lake County Ice Center with an unusual request: a mound … Read more

Permanently Smiling Dog Needs Massive Donation To Save His Life

Smiling Dog Needs Donations

When people meet Jasper, the 8-pound Chihuahua mix, the first thing they notice is his charming smile. Jasper has a permanent smile, so he always looks like the happiest pup in the world. But sadly, Jasper’s signature grin is a neurological condition that likely causes him pain. Finding the cause and cure for his condition certainly isn’t cheap either. So, Front Street Animal Shelter in Sacramento, California is asking for donations to help with sweet Jasper’s medical needs. Right now, … Read more

Dog Chosen As Mayor Of Small California Community

A community in California has chosen a dog to be their mayor! And who can blame them? Dogs are trustworthy, loyal, and protective. Who wouldn’t want those qualities in a mayor? Well, Copper, the five-year-old Golden Retriever is definitely all of that and more. Copper officially became the honorary mayor of Copperopolis on September sixth, after 1,800 people cast their votes for him to be the mayor of their unincorporated town. (This means the title is purely ceremonial.) The tiny … Read more

Animal Hospital Offers Dogs Chocolate “Goodbye Kisses” In Their Final Moments

Saying goodbye to a beloved friend is never easy. Still, the staff at Smiths Station Animal Hospital go above and beyond to ensure their patients and clients have every creature-comfort in these heartbreaking moments. Recently, the Lee County, Alabama vet clinic posted a photo to Facebook, and its bittersweet meaning is hitting viewers right in the feels. The image shows a clear jar filled to the brim with Hershey’s Kisses. Written on the side, with hearts for O’s, are the … Read more

Amber Abroad: Part 8: A Day In The Life Of Caring For Over 200 Dogs In Thailand

amber abroad cover

My overseas adventures brought me to an incredible dog rescue on the island of Phuket! Amber Abroad: Part 7 introduced you to the tireless work performed within these shelter walls, and a few of the special pups that call the Bodhi Rescue home. Now that you have a better idea of how the Bodhi Dog Rescue and Shelter began, I’d like to take you through a typical day in the life of caring for the 200 plus dogs that live … Read more

Two Fire Departments Join Forces To Rescue Dog From 40-Foot Well

An adventurous pooch named Rico is safe at home with his family after a freak accident almost claimed his life. Out on his own one evening, Rico was walking to a neighbor’s house in the small community of Prairietown, Illinois, when he fell into a 40-foot well. The local fire rescue reached out to the Edwardsville Fire Department, which has a specialized team for technical rescues in confined spaces. The two groups of heroes came together, working in the dark … Read more

RECALL: Popular Dog Food Brand Has Elevated Vitamin Levels

Husky Fromm Pet Food

Fromm Family Foods of Mequon, Wisconsin, recently issued a recall related to some of its canned food recipes. The brand has only had one other recall, which was in 2016 for a similar issue. The company voluntarily recalled about 5,500 cases of canned dog food due to elevated levels of Vitamin D. If you have any of these cans, Fromm urges you to stop serving them to your dog right away. While Vitamin D is healthy for dogs, high amounts can … Read more

Gastrointestinal Obstructions In Dogs: What Every Owner Needs To Know

Gastrointestinal obstructions in dogs can be located anywhere along the digestive tract from the stomach to the colon. They occur when the natural flow of ingested materials becomes stopped up, making it difficult for the dog to pass stool or gas. Bowel obstructions are fairly common in dogs due to their habit of ingesting non-food items. Who is at risk for a gastrointestinal obstruction? While any dog can potentially suffer from a gastrointestinal obstruction, puppies are especially susceptible as they … Read more

Dog Reunites With Family After Surviving Fatal Plane Crash

Dog survives plane crash

On September 22, 2021, a plane crashed just 30 miles southwest of Page, Arizona. The plane came from San Martin, California, and it went down as it was descending into the Arizona city. The cause of the crash is still unknown. It was a smaller plane with two humans and one dog inside. The pilot died amid the crash while the passenger was severely injured. The dog survived but ran off in a panic immediately after. Luckily, officials later tracked … Read more

Man Arrested For Dragging Huskies Behind Vehicle To “Walk Them”

Huskies dragged behind SUV

Police officer Ricardo Rojo of Arkansas was shocked when a large SUV passed his police car with two large dogs dragging behind it. When he questioned the driver, he said he was just “walking them.” But Rojo refused to let someone get away with such blatant animal cruelty. Since then, both dogs have been taken into custody and put into foster homes. One dog suffered from severe injuries, while the other one got away with minor scratches. Both dogs are … Read more

The Best Dog-Friendly U.S.-Based Companies In 2021

It’s the end of September and we’re most of the way through 2021 already. For many of us, the past two years have been fairly challenging. Having our dogs always nearby for love and companionship during an ongoing pandemic has made a huge difference. Rover released its Best Dog-Friendly Companies 2021 report on the 28th, which shows just how much dogs factor into our changing culture. The report lists the top U.S. companies that offer benefits for dog parents along … Read more

Heartbroken Dog Refuses To Leave Her Human’s Casket After His Funeral

Dog stays by casket

Death is a difficult thing for anyone to grasp. But while humans understand the concept of death, dogs likely don’t know why humans and animals disappear. One dog called Lessie, also referred to as Lassie by some sources, didn’t know how to cope with her human’s death. She shared many years of her life with her human father, so she didn’t understand when he disappeared one day. However, when she attended his funeral, she could tell that he was in … Read more

3 Legged Dog Wins Animal Foundation’s 2021 “Best In Show”

When you think of dog shows, maybe you imagine the purebred-focused events you see on TV on Thanksgiving. The Animal Foundation’s annual “Best in Show” actually features adoptable rescue dogs of all shapes and sizes. “Best in Show” is the Animal Foundation’s biggest fundraiser of the year, and it’s been going on for 18 years now. The money raised goes to several important causes, like their foster program and their kitten nursery. The 2021 Event For the first time in … Read more

8-Year-Old Donates All Of His Birthday Presents To Animal Shelter

Pulaski County, Kentucky, is home to about 65,000 residents. Of those 65,000 people, there is one with an exceptionally large heart. Jacob Maggard may only be 8-years-old, but he has enough kindness and compassion within him to last several lifetimes! Jacob’s neighbor, Cheryl Sears, passed away on May 22nd. Rather than flowers, Cheryl’s family asked for donations to be made to the Pulaski County Animal Shelter, where her daughter, Kim, is the Assistant Director. Jacob was so inspired by this … Read more

Homeless Boy Adopts Puppy And Names Him After Lost Brother

Rommel and Badji

Rommel Quemenales was only 11-years-old when a documentary was released about his life on the streets. His dad left him at an early age and his mom showed little interest in her many children. So, Rommel began begging and finding money in his own ways. But he wasn’t doing it alone. During his time on the streets, he met a homeless puppy, who quickly became his best friend. Rommel named his dog Badji after his brother Adji who disappeared many … Read more

Do You Know These 5 Warning Signs Of Pet Cancer?

Today, your dog isn’t interested in eating, nor has energy that was exhibited yesterday. Normally, your dog is eager to eat and equally eager to play and get into mischief. Being the excellent parent that you are, you make an appointment for your dog to see your veterinarian. While you aren’t sure what may be going on, in your gut, you know that this isn’t normal behavior. Your vet comes in and asks qualifying questions. You both agree to run … Read more

You Gave Donna The Greyhound The Diet She Needed To Thrive!

Donna the Greyhound Greater Good

When you purchase products from the iHeartDogs store, a portion of those proceeds are donated to Greater Good Charities. Through Greater Good’s Rescue Bank program, shelter dogs can get healthy meals so the rescues can save their funds for medical costs and other care requirements. Donna is just one of the many dogs that Greater Good Charities has had an impact on! Bexata Animal Sanctuary, Inc., a Greyhound rescue in San Antonio, cared for Donna the Greyhound. She initially came … Read more

Celebrity “Ethan The Dog” Chosen To Throw The First Pitch At Baseball Game

Ethan Featured

“Ethan the Dog” is ready to play ball! Which, if you’ve been following his story, you know is nothing short of a miracle. He was chosen as the “celebrity” guest to throw out the ceremonial first pitch at the Louisville Bats inaugural “Hops & Hounds” event. Bats fans were encouraged to bring their best furry friends to join them for an evening of baseball and sampling locally brewed beers. The event was held during the Louisville Bats minor league baseball … Read more

Couple Spoils Their Neighborhood Pups With A Community Treat Box

dog treat box cover

A couple in Lincoln, Nebraska, has found a way to pamper the many pups in their neighborhood. In an effort to honor their late beloved companion, the couple created a community treat box for the lovable pups and dog parents of their community. Joe Knopp and Deb Bauer-Knopp are dog lovers who, after tragically losing their beloved Golden Retriever, wanted to create something special in her memory. After some imagination and brainstorming, the Gold Dog Express was born! The Gold … Read more

13-Year-Old Dog Comes Of Age With His “Bark” Mitzvah

Folks, Mazel Tovs are in order. Just as his dad did 39 years ago, a boy named Rambo officially became a man. Well, a 13-year-old dog named Rambo celebrated his “Bark Mitzvah,” at least. In the Jewish tradition, the Bar or Bat Mitzvah is a coming-of-age ritual and celebration that occurs when a child turns 13.  Rambo’s mom and dad, Ruth and Craig Ellenberg from New Jersey, decided to share the tradition with their dog too. A Pup Becomes A … Read more

Experts Suspect That Man Faked Dog Train Tracks Rescue For Fame

Dog on train tracks video

It’s easy to get caught up in fame on social media. Many people become obsessed with gaining followers and viewers on sites like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. But the lengths that some people will go to get recognized can be a bit extreme. A TikTok user was repeatedly praised for saving a dog tied to train tracks in a heart-wrenching video. However, experts later announced that the video was likely faked for fame. Many people were worried for the dog’s … Read more

Quick-Thinking Canine Has Life-Saving Reaction To Her Dad’s Stroke

German Shepherd saves human from stroke

In the moment, 68-year-old Lothar Weimann claimed he was fine. Yet, his German Shepherd named Ellie sensed otherwise. Somehow, she knew he was having a stroke before he did. Judging by the bump on his head afterward, Weimann had fallen, so Ellie jumped into action and got the neighbor involved. Thanks to Ellie’s quick thinking, Weimann’s life was saved. It’s unclear how the dog knew to look for help, but she certainly did the right thing. This situation further proves … Read more

Starving Mama Dog And Her Malnourished Newborns Saved Just In Time

With many cases in animal rescue, timing is critical. One ticking clock scenario is when rescuers have the chance to save newborn puppies. The first few weeks of a puppy’s life are critical, and proper nutrition is essential to their well-being and growth. When an abandoned female dog gave birth on the streets in 2020, the people who discovered her knew they had to act quickly if they were going to save the whole family. After birthing a litter of … Read more

Lost Dog Rescued After Several Days In Snowy Colorado Mountains

Dog Lost in Colorado Mountains

Every year, Curtis Culver and his brother plan a backpacking trip to Grand County, Colorado. Culver’s dog, Stella, usually tags along. This trip was the 20th year so far, but it was the first year they encountered dangerous weather conditions. The three of them had to evacuate to escape a harsh snowstorm, but when help arrived, Stella bolted in fear. Culver panicked as he was forced to leave her behind. Being a smart and resourceful pup, Stella survived five days … Read more

Devoted Veteran & Therapy Dog Pair Honored For National Service Dog Month

September is National Service Dog Month. It is a time for raising awareness and showing appreciation for the extraordinary work service dogs do every day. The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) are honoring Julian King and his beloved service dog, Mocha, this month for their dedication to the community of Coos Bay, Oregon. Over the past nine years, the pair has visited just about every hospice and senior living facility in the area. Finding A Purpose After Retirement King is … Read more

Tiny Dog Breaks World Record For Speedy Home Run

Terrier runs bases record

When it comes to fast dogs, you might picture large dogs with long legs. But Macho the Russell Terrier proves that looks can be deceiving. This talented pup recently broke a unique Guinness World Record, making him the fastest dog to run the bases at a baseball stadium. It takes a lot of effort and focus for a dog to even make it to all four bases in a row. So, Macho is one special pup, and he’s proud of … Read more

Annual Dog Surfing Competition Gives “SurFURs” A Chance To Show Off

Did you know that dog surfing competitions are a thing? If not, I’m happy to be the one to tell you all about them. I’m even more delighted to share photos of the cutest water sport you’ll ever see! Surf City Surf Dog is an annual competition that takes place in Huntington Beach, California. At the end of September, fearless dogs with incredible balance take on the waves and are judged on their surfing skills. After taking a hiatus during … Read more

Could Your Dog Have a Hookworm Infection?

Hookworms are an intestinal parasite (worm) that lives in the small intestines of dogs and other animals. The most common species of hookworm is Ancylostoma caninum, although there are other species of hookworms that can also infect dogs. This parasite primarily causes problems in young puppies, but it can also affect adult dogs. Hookworms get their name from their body shape. These small worms (only half an inch long) have a body that bends to form a hook shape. They … Read more

South Korea’s President Plans To Ban Dog Meat Consumption

South Korea Ends Dog Meat Consumption

The current animal welfare laws in South Korea protect dogs from cruelty, but not from meat consumption. South Korea’s President Moon Jae-in announced that those laws could soon change. Dog meat consumption isn’t nearly as common as it used to be, but some people are still fighting for it. Yet, with so many citizens adopting dogs and cats, the laws seem outdated and overdue for a change. So, will Moon’s proposed changes become a reality? The sooner dog meat is … Read more

Alaska Man & His Dog Walk The Equivalent Of A Full Lap Around The Earth

In 2013, Mike Mitchell of Anchorage, Alaska, was a very different man. At 230 pounds, he was overweight and battling multiple health problems after contracting Hepatitis C during surgery years before. He was sick, tired, and barely getting by. Today, Mitchell hardly resembles the person he was back then, and he says he owes it all to a little dog named Chance. Together, the pair have walked more than 24,900 miles around their community—the equivalent of the Earth’s circumference! It … Read more

74-Year-Old Jumps On Top Of Alligator To Save Golden Retriever

Suzan Marciano, 74, didn’t have time to think when she saw an alligator approaching her Golden Retriever mix. They had walked at that Florida park hundreds of times with no issues, but this day was different. As the alligator grabbed the dog named Nalu, Marciano jumped forward to push the alligator away from the 11-year-old canine. It was the ultimate act of love and bravery, and Nalu is alive and well because of it. Marciano and Nalu are still recovering … Read more

Blind Woman Rudely Confronted For Entering Restaurant With Her Guide Dog

Lucy Edwards ventured out for a bite to eat with her fiance, Olly, to a Yo! Sushi restaurant in Central London. Of course she had her guide dog Molly by her side, as Lucy has had a guide dog since she was 18 years old. Having a guide dog gives Molly the confidence to navigate the world, despite having lost her sight at age 17. When the trio was being seated at the sushi establishment, the server noticed that Lucy … Read more

Woman Threw Her Injured Dog Into The Ocean To Avoid Vet Bills

On the afternoon of September 12, 2021, police were called to South Beach, Georgia. Reports indicated a woman at the beach threw a puppy into the ocean. Her reasoning was as bizarre and sad as the incident itself. Upon arrival, Tybee Island Police initially issued the woman, Candy Marban, a citation. They ultimately charged her with a felony of aggravated cruelty to animals after the full extent of the dog’s condition became clear. According to a release issued by the … Read more

Longest Shelter Resident Receives Standing Ovation As He Finally Goes Home

On average, dogs spend anywhere from a couple of days to many months within a shelter. There are a lot of different factors that can influence the length of their stay, and life in a shelter can be stressful for them. But after 260 days, the longest resident of McKamey Animal Center in Chattanooga, Tennessee finally went home.  “We’re not really sure what his living environment was like prior to coming to us, but it was very apparent that he … Read more

Fourth Grader Donates All Earnings From Her Dog Walking Business To Save Dogs

Girl walks dogs featured

Many kids start learning the importance of hard work at an early age. While most want to spend their earnings on a new toy or save it for something bigger, Milla Janks from Johannesburg, South Africa, had a better idea. She and her half-sister started their own dog walking business because they love spending time with animals. They earned a lot of money doing so, but they weren’t greedy about it. Milla chose to donate every penny of her earnings … Read more

Tiny Dachshund Guards Pub From 20 Feet In The Air

The Three Merry Lads pub is a destination where visitors can take in stunning views while they’re warmed by one of three fireplaces. They can also be greeted by an unexpected host/bouncer. If you’ve ever had a few too many adult beverages, you certainly know that your eyes can sometimes deceive you. This wasn’t the case for one man in Yorkshire, England. The man was out walking his own dog when he heard barking. No matter where he looked, he … Read more

Rescue Saves Massive Group Of Dogs From Horrific Puppy Farm

Dogs saved from puppy farm

After seven months of investigations, animal advocates have saved the lives of hundreds of dogs. They discovered an unlicensed breeder in Carmarthenshire, Wales, who kept the breeding dogs in horrific conditions. Many of the dogs had to be rushed to emergency medical care, but now, they’ve made their way to loving foster homes. Puppy farms, also known as puppy mills, aren’t rare by any means. Many inhumane breeders breed dogs excessively to prepare for the Christmas puppy demand. Hope Rescue … Read more

Rescue Pulls A “Stray” From A Kill Shelter Unaware He’d Been Missing For A Year

You’ve probably heard the story before of a dog escaping through an open gate and disappearing. This version of that story has a pretty positive and incredible ending, though. It’s about a dog named Sparky from Palm Beach Florida who was missing for an entire year. Sparky’s slip through the gate and subsequent disappearance happened in October of 2020. The dog was already in his senior years at 15-years-old, and his devastated family assumed after a certain point that they’d … Read more

Hound’s Long, Floppy Ears Earn Her A Guinness World Record

Dog with longest ears

A three-year-old Coonhound named Lou has always thought that she was special, but now, she has proof! Lou has the most distinct ears you’ll ever see on a dog. They droop well past her neck, giving her a memorable and adorable appearance. In 2020, Lou was confirmed to have the longest ears of any living canine. She will be featured in the Guinness World Records 2022 book, along with many other record-breakers, such as a cat and dog duo on … Read more

Mischievous Monkey Holds Puppy Hostage In Trees For Three Days

Much like we are used to seeing squirrels scampering about in our everyday environment, residents in Malaysia are accustomed to having monkeys prowling around. And while they may indeed be absolutely adorable, the macaques can be quite mischievous. They are even well known for stealing food from inside resident’s houses. But one particular macaque opted to snatch something surprising—a two-week-old black and white puppy named Saru. Locals spotted the primate wrap the puppy up in its arms and then scamper … Read more

First U.S. Airport Brings In COVID-Sniffing Dogs To Detect Infected Employees

Two extraordinary pups are making history at Miami International Airport (MIA). Cobra, a Belgian Malinois, and One Betta, a Dutch Shepherd, are specially trained to sniff out COVID-19 in humans. The pair have put MIA on the map as the first U.S. airport to test COVID-19 detector dogs. The pilot program is a partnership between the Miami-Dade Aviation Department, the Global Forensic & Justice Center, and Florida International University.  “This pandemic has pushed us to innovate to stop the spread,” … Read more

Pint-Sized Pup Beats Out The Big Dogs At Rescue’s Annual Surf Competition

surf dog cover

A Westie named Petey took the crown in the 16th Annual Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon. Not only did this pup take home an impressive win, but he helped raise funds for the many programs at the Helen Woodward Animal Center (HWAC). Each year the HWAC hosts a surfing competition on a dog-friendly beach in Del Mar, California. Fur parents and water-loving pups get to show off their surfing skills for a great cause. The competition helps support the shelter’s various missions, … Read more

Guide Dog Trainee Yanks Reporter Down On Live TV

It wasn’t your average Monday morning news show on BBC Breakfast when a weather segment co-starring a Labrador went a little off the leash. A clip from that unplanned conclusion later went viral, proving once again that live animals and news reports don’t always mix. For Carol Kirkwood’s weather report, she held onto the end of a guide dog named Flash’s leash while on camera. Flash accompanied Kirkwood to the Royal Horticultural Society in Chelsea that day as a representative … Read more

Neighbor Leaps 8 Feet Into Storm Drain To Save Dog 911 Refused To Help

German Shepherd in Storm Drain

It seems highly unlikely to lose sight of an 87-pound dog during a walk. But when Lana Norman from Las Vegas was walking her German Shepherd named Riley at night, the dog suddenly vanished. Riley fell into a storm drain that was missing the grate, landing several feet below the surface. Norman tried contacting professionals for help, but when no one answered, her neighbor jumped into action. Not only was Norman terrified for her own dog’s safety, but she also … Read more

Blind Man Sues After Store Refuses His Service Dog Twice

Service Dog Refused from Business

Wilmer Oliva is legally blind, so he’s allowed to take his service dog named Forte to any public spaces with him. The duo has gone shopping together many times before, but all it takes is one bad experience to change everything. When Oliva and Forte entered a Jimmy Jazz at the Hanes Mall in North Carolina, he soon faced discrimination because of his disability. They told him to leave the store because of Forte, but later apologized and made their … Read more

Lonely Kitten Chooses Loving Foster Dog As Her Mama

Martha may be a young kitten, but when she makes up her little mind, oh, it’s made! But don’t think this tabby kitten is a diva. Martha, also known by her nickname Marty, is actually one sweet girl. She loves snuggling with her foster family and her adoptive mom, who happens to be a dog. And Martha was the one to insist Mama Nood the dog be hers! So, how did this tiny tabby fluff come to claim a dog … Read more