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Therapy Dog Calms Anxious Teens Getting Their Covid Vaccines

This week, a Covid vaccine clinic in Newburyport, Massachusetts opened up appointments for 12 to 15-year-olds. Most people don’t love getting shots, but kids especially have a hard time getting needles in their arms. Fortunately for the kids attending the clinic at this middle school, someone would be by their side supporting them. That helpful someone wasn’t a medical professional, but rather a comfort professional. Dice the service dog was there at the clinic, ready to comfort the young patients … Read more

Trained “Buddy Dog” Helps Blind 6-Year-Old Find His Confidence

Vesper and Rubin

Welcoming a new dog into your home can have quite a few “pawsitive” effects on you and your entire family. Their unconditional love, companionship, and comfort are some of the main reasons pet parents cannot imagine life without their furry family members. But for six-year-old Rubin, who is registered blind, having his new best friend “Buddy Dog Vesper” by his side has been profoundly life-changing. Rubin cannot see at all with his right eye and has limited vision in his … Read more

Survey Reveals Most Pet Parents Would Dump Their Date If The Dog Didn’t Approve

Pet parents are known to trust the instincts of their furry friends, and a recent online poll reveals how deep that trust goes. In a OnePoll survey conducted for ZestyPaws, 2,000 pet parents who are either single or dating answered questions regarding how their pets’ feelings figured into their relationship. The results might prove surprising to some, but not really when we think about how much we value our furry family’s opinion. As the responses captured, 2 out of every … Read more

25 Owners Share The Hilarious & Bizarre Things Their Dog Is Afraid Of

A few days ago, we asked you on Facebook to tell us the most bizarre and funny things that your dog is afraid of. Your answers we’re certainly entertaining! We’re surprised how many of you listed #1! Below is our top 25 picks. 1. His own farts! – Christine Blair-Cregger 2. Paper towel tubes – Trenton Ward 3. Not even kidding, my Olde English bulldog doesn’t like the theme song to Giligans Island. – Ashley Tumbiolo Purington medianet_width=’600′; medianet_height= ‘120’; medianet_crid=’834548544′; … Read more

Police Officers Break Window To Save Dog Locked In 115 Degree Car

It’s hard to believe in this day and age; with everything we know about the severe effects, people still leave their dogs in hot cars. Even on cloudy days, locked cars can heat up to extreme temperatures fast. On a 75 degree day, temperatures inside the vehicle can reach 120 degrees in just 30 minutes. When Sarasota Police officers responded to a call about a dog left in a parked car, they knew the stakes. Dogs are very sensitive to … Read more

French Bulldog Puppy Stolen At Gunpoint Is Found Safe

French Bulldog Stolen

Pet thefts are on the rise. And French Bulldogs are one of the most desired breeds right now since they’re worth thousands of dollars. Lady Gaga’s French Bulldogs were just some of the many dogs who fell victim to robbery. Now, another French Bulldog has been taken at gunpoint, and he was only 10 months old. His human was trying to find him a better home when someone stole the innocent pup. After days of unsuccessful searching, the gray puppy … Read more

Playful Puppy With Spinal Deformity Walks For The First Time

Paralyzed Goldendoodle puppy

Benjamin Bunny doesn’t know he’s different from other dogs. All he wants to do is play and be loved, just like any other puppy. But moving around is difficult for this Goldendoodle because he has a severe spinal deformity. He is paralyzed from the shoulders down, so he can only get around by hopping and dragging his back legs behind him. But now, a custom wheelchair is changing Benjamin’s life. He can finally walk just like his foster siblings. Now, … Read more

Students Need Help In Building Dog Houses For Their Local Shelter

building dog houses cover

A group of students at Stewardson-Strasburg High School is giving back to their community in the most incredible way. By creating the S-S Recycling Animal Housing Project, this school will continue to help local animals for years to come. Jill Spour decided at the beginning of the school year to help her students create something special. She wanted to give them a sense of accomplishment and create a project that they could be proud of. After a bit of brainstorming, … Read more

Vegan Couple Claims To Love Animals Yet Their Dogs Were Sick and Suffering

An Australian couple faces multiple charges and fines after several drop-ins from the RSPCA confirmed reports that both of their five-month-old Bull Arab puppies were sick and suffering. RSPCA investigators made more than one visit and reported that Roo and Ula were underweight, unable to stand, and crying out in pain. Roo had even injured one of his back legs when jumping off a couch and had been fitted with a homemade cast. The couple explained that they used instructions … Read more

Revolutionary New Way To Eliminate Dog Poop And Stop Porch Pirates

Do you have a problem with jerk porch pirates stealing your stuff? Are you at the end of your tape roll trying to figure out how to stop them? Well, Jason Harvey has a solution for you! When his Des Moines, Iowa home became a repeated target for porch pirates, Jason got tired of watching the brazen thieves steal his packages. As he was walking his dog, Jason came up with an innovative solution to deal with the thieves. The … Read more

Disabled US Army Veteran Struggles With PTSD After Loss Of His Service Dog

We here in the USA enjoy freedoms people elsewhere can only dream of. But our freedom comes at a price, and it’s paid by the brave men and women of our armed forces who selflessly put themselves in the service of the rest of us. They protect the rights and freedoms of people who can’t protect themselves. For the sake of a better world, they leave the comforts of home, friends, and family to sacrifice life and limb. Sometimes, they … Read more

Lab Abandoned In Desert Is One Of Many Unlucky Pandemic Pups

At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, dog adoptions increased. Many shelters were emptied due to so many people working from home. But now that many families are returning to their regular jobs, the pandemic pups are suffering. Colby the two-year-old Labrador Retriever is one of the many dogs left behind as restrictions are lifted. And while some families do the responsible thing by taking their dog to a rescue or shelter, Colby’s family did not. They left him alone … Read more

Pit Bulls Take Over Instagram To Reclaim Their Image

Pit Bull influencers

Pit Bulls are some of the sweetest, most charming creatures you’ll ever meet. But sadly, not everyone sees them that way. For decades, Pit Bull type dogs have been known as “mean,” “aggressive,” and “scary.” Yet, anyone who’s lived with a Pit Bull knows this couldn’t be further from the truth. So, Pit Bull influencers are turning to Instagram to change the way the world sees these dogs. With one cute post at a time, these social media famous pups … Read more

Pastor Gives His Pug A Proper Send Off At Emotional Funeral

Pug Funeral Service

People often overlook pet deaths. But anyone who has lost a dog knows that it’s one of the hardest things to experience. So, pastor Tim Beville Jr. from Pennsylvania decided to show the world that pet loss shouldn’t be taken lightly. He created the biggest, most beautiful funeral for his late Pug named Dexter. It included an open casket, an assortment of flowers, and an obituary. To Beville’s surprise, people all over the world were moved by it. He knew … Read more

Florida Man Wrestles 8-Foot Alligator To Save His Dog

Many think that Mike McCoy is crazy for wrestling a massive alligator. But when the Florida man’s Labrador Retriever named Jake was snatched by the reptile, McCoy had to act fast. So, he jumped into the pond and wrestled that alligator until his furry friend was free. McCoy and Jake are lucky to be safe after the incident. If McCoy hadn’t been so brave in that moment, the pup might not have survived. So, while alligator attacks like this are … Read more

Update: Family Celebrates Senior Foster Dog’s Remaining Days With A Bucket List

Senior Lab Bucket List

When Brandy Fowler chose to foster Whiskey, a 15-year-old Lab, she knew his days might be numbered. And after bringing him to the vet, she realized she might be his last hope. So, she decided to go above and beyond her foster family roles. She was determined to give Whiskey the best life possible. Whiskey now has a bucket list that he’s working on. Fowler wants to ensure that he gets to do all the things that he likely didn’t … Read more

Reporter Scores Exclusive With World’s Dumbest Dognapper

Folks, I gotta say, this one’s a doozy. It’s either something ripped from those viral videos of “dumb criminals” or the weirdest “mistake” you’ve ever heard. Let me explain: it all started when a dog was stolen from a parked car. Around 12:30 pm on a Friday, Boston Police officers responded to a report that someone broke into a car and took a 13-month-old German Short Haired Pointer named Titus. Surveillance video later captured a man walking the dog over … Read more

New Mama Carries Recently Birthed Puppy Into Street To Signal For Help

Jade carrying puppy

It’s no secret that most mothers would do just about anything to protect their children. Even moms who are quiet and calm in every other situation wouldn’t hesitate to let out their inner “mama bear” when their children are in danger. That’s why it’s no surprise that a frightened, homeless mama dog named Jade did exactly what she thought was necessary to protect her precious family. It was Stephanie Brooks, a tourist visiting California from New Jersey, who first spotted … Read more

Vietnam Veteran Vows To Save 50,000 Dogs To Honor The K9 He Left Behind

51 years ago, U.S. Army veteran Mike Monahan finished his tour of duty during the Vietnam War. On that day, he also had to say goodbye forever to Chico, a trained Army dog on his patrol team. Chico alerted his team to tripwires and even saved Monahan’s life. To this day, Monahan can’t help but feel guilt over leaving Chico behind. Because, not long after he hugged his friend goodbye in that kennel in Vietnam, Chico was needlessly euthanized. When … Read more

Grieving 6-Year-Old Invites Passerby & Dog To Her Father’s Funeral

I hope you have your tissues handy because this one’s a doozy! Young children should never have to mourn the loss of their parents. Sadly, it is too often a fact of life as it was with Raelynn Nast. The 6-year-old Greenwood, Arkansas girl recently lost her father, Davey, to colon cancer. He was only 41-years-old. This loss was particularly hard on Raelynn. Her father’s funeral was held last month, but the story of what happened there has just recently … Read more

Lost Emotional Support Dog Found In NYC Subway Tunnels

Dog lost on subway

Lucy is a rescue dog and emotional support animal who shares a special connection with her family members. However, she is fearful of strangers, so unfamiliar events can be overwhelming for her. Lucy and her mom, Susan Moore, live in New York, and it’s impossible to avoid new people in such a big city. Susan’s adult daughter Molly watched Lucy while Susan was in the hospital recovering from an injury. But things went downhill quickly when Lucy escaped and got … Read more

Tuckered Out Pittie Pup Has A Cozy Car Nap With His Fave

Pittie nap cover

Nino is a lovable 8-month-old Pittie that takes advantage of every nap opportunity he gets. After a long day spent at the beach with his favorite humans, he couldn’t help but pass out in an adorable way. Kamilla Ferreira adopted Nino when he was just 4 months old. He quickly became the talk of the neighborhood due to his friendly personality, greeting everyone he meets with an eager tail wag and a kiss. “People sometimes get scared of his tough … Read more

They Call Them “Shrooms” For Dogs – And They Help Boost Their Immune System

What if I told you your dog could use some shrooms in their diet? Yes, of course, “shrooms” is a loaded term for us humans who think of a certain psychoactive kind of “magic mushroom.” But do you know about “shrooms” for dogs – Reishi Mushrooms – and the myriad of ways they can help your dog’s health and immunity? Let’s dive a little deeper into what these “shrooms” are and why giving your dog Reishi Mushroom supplements can be … Read more

I Gave My Dog Reishi Mushrooms For Allergies. Here’s What Happened.

Happy puppy playing

Your dog shouldn’t have to itch themselves until their skin is raw. But for dogs with allergies, skin irritation and other allergic reactions are hard to avoid. Luckily, building up a healthy immune system can help relieve allergic reactions. There are lots of ingredients that can boost immune systems, including reishi mushrooms for dogs. Related: Best Dog Allergy Supplements Reishi mushrooms are among the many beneficial ingredients found in iHeartDogs’ Happy, Healthy™ Allergy & Itch Relief Chews. These “shrooms” are … Read more

Woman With PTSD Confronts Man With Improperly Trained Dog

People bringing their pet dogs into grocery stores can be dangerous — especially for those who depend on service dogs to help them with a disability. That’s just what happened to a woman named Dominique recently at her local Walmart. Dominique, who has Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), relies on a service animal to help her when she is out in public. She has a dog named Mya, who is a medical K9 in training.  In a video captured on … Read more

If Your Dog Has Painful Skin Itchiness, Put This In Their Food!

They may be a different species, but dogs can experience many of the same ailments as humans. Allergies, for one thing, can plague many dogs too. They also don’t possess the restraint to stop scratching or nibbling (hey, some humans don’t either), which can have consequences of its own. As the one responsible for your dog’s food and medical needs, it’s up to you to ensure they get the ingredients they need to maintain a healthy immune system. These immune-boosting … Read more

Family Discovers Foster Dog Has Same Rare Heart Condition As Daughter

Foster dog heart condition

When we choose a dog to adopt, it sometimes feels like fate. And the Mikolai family felt that more than anyone. Amid the pandemic, Nicki and her 15-year-old daughter Avery chose to start fostering dogs. But their first foster dog ended up having the same rare heart condition as Avery. The family knew it had to be more than a coincidence. It was fate. Plus, the pup already shared an incredibly close bond with Avery. So, they eventually adopted the … Read more

Senior Dog Tied To A Rock & Left To Drown Finds A Loving Home

Drowning Dog Saved

Two women panicked when they saw Bella the German Shepherd struggling to stay afloat in a river. At first, they thought she had fallen in or gotten stuck. But as it turns out, her leash was tied to a heavy rock and thrown into the water. A horrible person had intentionally tried to drown the pup in freezing water. But luckily, the Good Samaritans arrived just in time. They pulled Bella out of the water and called for help. The … Read more

Pit Bull Shot Several Times Stays Positive After Leg Amputation

Pit Bull recovering from gunshots

Dogs are unconditionally loyal. Even when their humans don’t love them in return, dogs stick by their sides. Dogs don’t know how to stay mad at humans or hold a grudge. It’s a good quality to have, but it often gets them hurt in the end. A Pit Bull “unofficially” named Kevin is the perfect example of a pup with endless loyalty. His human shot him several times and then left him behind. But instead of being mad, Kevin just … Read more

Shelter Pooch Who Saved A Lost Boy Is Up For A Hero Dog Award

Shelter dog saves boy

In December 2019, Sasha the shelter dog saved the life of a young boy. A neighbor had lost their 10-year-old son with Down Syndrome, and Sasha was able to use her incredible nose to locate him. Now, Gina Silvestri hopes she can use Sasha’s brave spirit to help more dogs in need. She nominated her furry friend for the American Humane Hero Dog Awards in the shelter dog category. She hopes that winning this award will help encourage more people … Read more

Dog Miraculously Survives 9 Days In Alligator-Filled Florida Everglades

It’s a story that comes out of a dog lover’s worst nightmares, but ends with a loving family finally connecting with the pup they were fated to have. Their Paths Cross In April, Theo, a two-year-old mixed-breed with the sweet face of a Pit Bull, was wandering the streets of Miami, Florida. When Ashley Tirado and her vacationing family opened the door to their SUV, Theo hopped in without hesitation. “He chose us,” Ashley said. “He hopped right into our … Read more

“World’s Happiest Dog” Can’t Stop Smiling After Being Adopted

Shortcake happy Pit Bull

Lady Shortcake the 6-year-old Pit Bull has the most beautiful smile. It was one of the reasons her human fell in love with her, and now that she’s adopted, she smiles even more! Sometimes it’s when she’s excited, but other times it’s when she’s trying to get herself out of trouble. But either way, her unique expression is one-of-a-kind. Dog lovers all over the world are in love with this charming rescue pup. Her social media posts always brighten people’s … Read more

The Healthy Hound Newsletter #64

In This Issue

● Are Small Dogs More Aggressive?
● Does Aggression Increase With Age?
● New Mom Euthanizes “Aggressive” Dog
● Are Grumpy Dogs Smarter?
● Every First Letter Capitalized
● May Is Microchip Month

Overlooked Shelter Dog Becomes Police Department’s First K9 In Decades

Arrow the Belgian Malinois waited at the Burlington County Animal Shelter for eight months. His temperament made him difficult in a home setting and not suitable to become a service dog or emotional support dog. But as it turns out, he has the perfect personality for a police dog. So, the shelter matched Arrow with Southhampton’s Police Department. They hadn’t had a police K9 for 50 or 60 years, but they’re overjoyed to have one now. Arrow quickly adjusted to … Read more

Irish President’s Pup Steals The Spotlight During Somber Tribute

President of Ireland's dog

If you ever meet Michael D. Higgins, the president of Ireland, you can expect to meet his dogs too. His Bernese Mountain Dogs have always had a reputation of stealing the show. And now, the newest pup in the family has joined in. During a tribute to deceased actor Tom Hickey, Misneach the puppy stood right beside Higgins, just out of frame. While Higgins appears serious during his speech, a behind-the-scenes video reveals a different perspective: Misneach vigorously licking and … Read more

Verdict Is In – Here’s The #1 Way To Help Eliminate Your Pup’s Allergies

When your pup has allergies, no one is happy. It can be heartbreaking to see your dog itch over and over again, only to make the irritation worse. There are plenty of ways to eliminate dog allergies, such as using a hypoallergenic shampoo or feeding an allergy-friendly diet. But what if you’ve tried everything with no success? The new iHeartDogs® Happy, Healthy™ Allergy & Itch Relief for Dogs is the answer to your pup’s uncontrollable itching. It’s a tasty treat … Read more

Dogs Start Petition To Ensure All Balls Are Actually Thrown

In a world where nothing makes sense anymore, the rules are made up, and the points don’t matter, dogs are finally taking a stand. What do they want? All balls to actually be thrown! When do they want it? Now! This decree is similar to the chant that has been barking around cities across the nation. From the hollers of Possom Trot, Kentucky to the smallest cracks of Buttzville, New Jersey, and every other never-heard-of town in between, dogs are … Read more

Blind Teen Sues Restaurant For Turning Away Service Dog

Teen and service dog lawsuit

Service dogs aren’t your typical companions. They’re trained to do impressive tasks to keep their humans safe and comfortable. But even though the law allows service dogs in all public areas, there are still people that see them no differently from other dogs. Jacky’s Waterplace and Sushi Bar in Rhode Island turned away a teenager and her service dog. The family was outraged by this discrimination, so they are now suing the restaurant. A Birthday Disaster Haylee Mota and her … Read more

Couple Pursues Suspect On A 50-Mile Chase To Find Their Stolen Dog

Lost Dog Wild Goose Chase

James and Amber Holda have gone through a roller coaster of events to bring their lost dog home. The Virginia Beach family has a 1-year-old Pit Bull mix named Claire. Claire is playful and loving, but sometimes she’s a little too curious. One day, the pup squeezed through a crack in the fence and ventured into the front yard. Video footage shows her approach a strange vehicle, only to have a person come out and snatch her. The Holdas were … Read more

Former Bait Pit Bull Carries Security Blanket For Comfort

Pit Bull security blanket

Bub the rescue Pit Bull started his life as a bait dog in a dogfighting ring. When he was rescued, he was terrified and traumatized. He was also incredibly underweight and covered in infections. For those reasons, he was put at the top of the kill list at his shelter. Luckily, someone “rescued” him moments before he was euthanized, but they only kept him in their garage and neglected him. But what a difference love and care can make! Since … Read more

Golden Retriever Shows Off His Sizable Stick Collection

Collecting is a hobby that brings joy to people all over the world. There’s a very specific thrill that comes from looking for, finding, and then admiring your accumulations. However, collecting isn’t a behavior that is exclusive to humans. Interestingly, cats, magpies, and squirrels are known gatherers and admirers of shiny objects. Even dogs are known for favoring specific objects and toys over other things.  While it’s quite common to meet a dog that loves sticks, how many of them … Read more

Three-Legged Dog Hit By Van Learns To Walk Upright

I’ll never forget how terrified and devastated I was when I first heard that my mom’s dog, Teddy, was hit by a car. One of the lucky ones, he came away from the accident with a broken leg. Teddy has that particular doggie resilience, and amazingly within a few days he was already learning how to leap on furniture with his full leg cast. A brave Brittany Spaniel named Dexter from Colorado showed a similar determination. His accident, however, was … Read more

Loyal Police Dog Brutally Killed By 16-Year-Old Robbery Suspect

K9 Kozmo Rest in Peace

Police K9s are more than just dogs. They’re police officers just like the humans they work beside. And many human officers consider these hardworking dogs family. So, whenever a dog’s life is lost during duty, it’s taken just as seriously as a human’s. Kozmo was a loyal member of the Mesquite Police Department in Texas for almost all five years of his life. He was always willing to work hard, and he caught many criminals. But at the end of … Read more

Adoring Golden Squeezes Under Car To Hug Her Handy Human

Golden Retriever cover

Most of us know that our pups will go to great lengths to get our attention. A Golden Retriever in Australia did exactly that, and would not let anything stand between her and her fur dad! Goldens seem to be affectionate by nature, but some are even more cuddly than others. This Golden couldn’t bear being away from her fur dad while he worked on his car, and quickly took matters into her own paws. At the beginning of the … Read more

“Most Loving, Friendly” Pit Bull Dumped With Only A Bag Of Food

Pit Bull abandoned with food

Clearwater Police recently picked up a lovable Pit Bull on the side of the road. He was friendly and happy to see people, but he was so thin that you could see his ribs. Now, police are searching for the person responsible for abandoning him. They could face charges for animal cruelty. But despite having a tough start to life, the brave dog remains optimistic and excited. Once he has fully healed, he will be ready to find a loving … Read more

MOLD WARNING: Zuke’s Mini Naturals Dog Treats

Pet parents may want to check their pantries – Zuke’s is voluntarily removing all of their Mini Naturals treats from store shelves after customers reported the presence of mold inside the package. “We’re pet parents, too, and only want the best for our four-legged family members. For this reason, we are proactively and voluntarily removing Zuke’s Mini Naturals from store shelves as well as various online retailers, due to a quality issue with a recent batch of products.” If you … Read more

He Surrendered His Dog When He Became Homeless. Now, They’re Finally Back Together.

Being a dog parent often involves a lot of tough decisions. It’s not just about what food to feed or how many walks to go on; but instead, it comes down to what’s best for your dog. And for families who have fallen on hard times, the right decision is often the hardest to accept. Ryan Hamilton from Tampa Bay had to surrender his dog Dakota when he became homeless. He loved Dakota more than anything, but he couldn’t properly … Read more

Flight Attendant Helps Reunite Veterans With Their Retired Service Dogs

When dogs who serve in the armed forces complete their military service, they’re often given up for adoption. Sometimes the soldiers they worked with and grew close to are given first priority, but it’s not quite that simple. Bringing a dog back to their handlers overseas costs thousands of dollars. Luckily, there’s Molli Oliver. Oliver works as a flight attendant for United Air, but her real passion is reuniting these brave dogs with their partners. She’s already brought four dogs … Read more

Photographer “Flags” Dog Walkers Who Neglect To Dump Their Pups’ Poop

When you welcome a dog into your family, you also welcome love, loyalty, and lots of poop into your life. Hey, we all know cuddles on the couch and backyard games of fetch are far more fun than being their own personal pooper scooper. But if we want lifelong loyalty and unconditional love, this is one of the prices we’ve got to pay. Since there’s no such thing as the poop fairy, your dog’s poop is your responsibility. AP Hovasse, … Read more

Texas Committee Passes Bill To End Breed Discrimination In Public Housing

Texas Pit Bull bill

Dogs are a part of the family. When we move, our dogs come with us. But that could be harder for some families, depending on their furry friend’s breed. In many states, all landlords have to do is look at a dog and say no. Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and other muscular dogs are just some of the many canines that suffer because of this. It’s time to put an end to these outdated rules. There is no science to prove … Read more

Sweetest Senior Dog Has Been Waiting 7 Years For His Forever Home

Think about how much has happened in your life in the past seven years. That’s how long one dog at League for Animal Welfare in Ohio has been living in a shelter, longing for his forever home.  Mica is a 10-year-old pointer and labrador mix — and he has been in the care of the shelter since November 30, 2014. As countless other dogs have left the shelter and gone onto their forever homes, poor Mica has just watched the … Read more