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MMA Fighter Battles For Rescue Dogs Outside The Ring

When professional MMA fighter, Audrey Wolfe steps into the Fury Fighting Championship ring on Friday, December 20, she’ll wear the iHeartDogs logo, and we’re proud to be in her corner. For Audrey, the sentiment represents more than just a sponsorship. In addition to her rigorous training schedule, the Women’s Featherweight Champion hopeful also fights for homeless dogs. View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Audrey Drew Wolfe (@audreydwolfe) on Dec 13, 2019 at 1:25pm PST Audrey grew … Read more

Large Dog Gets Stuck In Tree After Chasing Cat

It’s common for firefighters to rescue cats from trees, but dogs don’t have the same reputation. So, when the Lathrop Manteca Fire District in California received a call about a full-grown German Shepherd stuck in a tree, they thought it was a joke. As it turns out, Baby the German Shepherd had chased a cat all the way to the top of a tree. The two animals ended up stuck with nowhere to go. It all happened when Sharon Thurston … Read more

Shelter Has Happy Send-Off Celebration For Dog Adopted After 500 Days

Long-term shelter residents are the dogs most adopters are not ready for. They may have fear symptoms or just be slow to trust, which many don’t have the patience or skills to handle. Either way, these dogs don’t deserve to live their lives inside an animal shelter. A (then) 4-year-old brown and white Pit mix named Bonita was admitted to the Niagara SPCA the summer of 2018. A year and several months later, no one had come to bring her … Read more

Girl With Diabetes Surprised With Her Own Service Dog

Emily Setterstrom was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when she was in kindergarten. Now, she’s 16 years old. It’s been difficult for her and her family to deal with her diabetes over the years. Her mom has to keep an eye on her often to make sure her blood sugar stays normal. However, they recently learned that all this extra stress and fear could easily be reduced with the help of a dog. Emily’s mom, Jennifer Setterstrom, lost her brother … Read more

Woman Dumps Dog, Takes Selfies, And Walks Away

The stories with the happiest endings usually begin with “Once upon a time,” not “Dog dumped in shelter kennel.” The shelter involved in this story has outdoor kennels where concerned citizens can safely place strays they find when their facility is closed for the day. The kennels are NOT for the purpose of dumping or surrendering a pet – but it often happens anyway. If someone dumping their own dog can be found, they’re asked to pay the surrender fee, … Read more

10 Dogs In A Texas Shelter Were Set To Be Euthanized Until The Public Stepped Up To Save Them All

Colorado City, Texas is one of those places where city laws put stray dogs at risk of euthanasia. This past week, 10 dogs residing at the City Of Colorado City Animal Control were at risk of being put down. This is not an uncommon problem, tragically. A city ordinance dictates the admitted dogs can stay at the shelter for just 5 days. However, that timeline can be extended if individuals or other rescue organizations express interest in taking the dogs. … Read more

Burglars Stole Crucial Donations From Animal Shelter In Iowa

Last Hope Animal Rescue in Cedar Rapids, Iowa works hard to take care of the animals at their facility. The majority of that care relies heavily on donations, many of which are made in cash. So when the staff at the shelter came into work one morning, they were devastated to see that their donation box was shattered and left empty. They all wondered how any person could do such a horrible thing to dogs and cats in need. When … Read more

Relatable Dog Has ‘Existential Crisis’ In Holiday Photos

Having your dogs join in on holiday photos can be a difficult task. Getting them to all sit still and look at the camera can be a nightmare, but the cute photos are well worth the extra time and effort. For one woman, her Christmas photos are not only adorable memories, but they’re hilarious viral photos. That’s because while one of her dogs is extremely photogenic, the other dog always has a look of concern when he’s faced with a … Read more

Reggaeton Loving Beagle Gets His Groove On

They may not have the opposable thumbs or pouting lips that playing instruments requires, but dogs can still get into music. They just tend to do better on the movement side. At least, a dancing Beagle named Bailey certainly does. Bailey grooved his way to stardom this week with an absolutely enchanting music video. A videographer we’re all extremely grateful for captured the pup enthusiastically dancing to Reggaeton music with his person. IT’S SO CUTE. Wendy Berenguer shared the video of Bailey … Read more

Former Bait Dog Still Needs A Loving Home After 700 Days In The Shelter

No dog deserves to be sitting at a shelter for hundreds of days, but unfortunately, that is the case for Jack Sparrow. Jack Sparrow is not a pirate, but instead, he is a sweet 9-year-old Pit Bull that was a bait dog from a Syracuse dog-fighting cruelty case. Now, this sweet dog has been waiting at CNY SPCA for more than 700 days. He doesn’t know what a loving home is like, but he desperately wants to find out. Due … Read more

“Boston Terrier” Joins Unsuspecting Family For Football Game

Dog parents aren’t perfect. They say love is blind, and, sometimes, we’re blinded by our love for our dogs. We love them for who they are and the joy they bring us. Sometimes that joy is brought by welcome home kisses and tail wags. Other times the love flows while we’re snuggled up with them on the couch. Speaking of which, when snuggling up on your couch with your dog, maybe just make sure it’s really your dog first. Or … Read more

Fearless Mom Chases Dognapper, Uses Social Media To Bring Shorkie Home

A family in Cleveland, Ohio is thankful to have their dog back in time for the holidays. Two-year-old Lucy was stolen from her family’s car earlier this month. The family took to social media and the local news as they pleaded for help. Of course, little Lucy is an important member of their family and they couldn’t imagine the holidays without her. Her family was left in disbelief that something so sinister could happen to them. A Targeted Attack Lucy’s … Read more

Veterinarian Drives Over An Hour Out Of His Way To Save A Senior Dog’s Life

Chris and Mariesa Hughes have been passionate about dogs their whole lives. They even started the Mr. Mo Project, which is a rescue made specifically to help senior dogs. So, they spend a lot of time around dogs, and of course, they always want what is best for their own furbabies. When their senior Chihuahua named Mabel became very sick one day, they knew they had to do whatever they could to save her. Mabel is 16 years old, and … Read more

Formerly Homeless Veteran Reunited With Stolen Service Dog

When thieves made off with U.S. veteran David Drake’s SUV in Ohio, they got away with much more than that. His beloved service dog and companion Gemma, a Lab/Pit mix, was inside the stolen vehicle. The good people behind Maslow’s Army refused to give up on getting her back. Maslow’s Army, run entirely by volunteers, is an organization committed to helping homeless people. They serve meals, provide shuttle transport, and even give peer guidance. According to the organization’s website, they … Read more

Injured Mama Dog Abandoned In Watery Ditch Thanks Rescuers With Endless Kisses

An abandoned mama dog has a long road to recovery ahead of her. Nelly, a Staffy mix, was discovered in a water-filled ditch in Birmingham, U.K. A man walking his dog spotted her and attempted to bring her onto dry land. Nelly had been bound with a martial arts belt and tied to a nearby fence. Local firefighters were called to assist in her rescue. The dog was incredibly grateful to her rescuers and showered them with kisses. However, the … Read more

Montana Shelter Rescues Over 30 Huskies From The Wild

Bitter Root Humane Association in Montana first learned about a group of wild Huskies when they received a call about a Husky that needed their leg amputated after being shot. Then, they later received another call about 3 Huskies running loose. When they looked into these events closer, they found that they were dealing with more than just a few dogs. As it turns out, there were over 30 Huskies found roaming free in the wild! The humane association worked … Read more

No Home for the Holidays: Dogs Being Set Loose so their Family Can Afford Christmas Vacation

An alarming trend has been identified in Australia leading up to and during this holiday season. Families are abandoning their pets to avoid paying expenses related to boarding them whilst the family travels for Christmas. The practice is naturally sparking outrage among more responsible animal lovers and causing problems for shelters with swelling populations.   Mayhem Ensues for Shelters in Melbourne Australian Animal Protection Society vice-president Sue Thompson told the Australian publication The Age that people are letting their pets loose, hoping … Read more

Man Rushes To The Rescue When A Pomeranian’s Leash Gets Trapped In Elevator Doors

In a recent video, Johnny Mathis came out of the elevator at his apartment home in Texas. He had parked in the underground garage, so he used the elevator to make his way back up to the ground floor, which is where his apartment was. He never expected to be a hero that day, but when he saw a dog in danger, he knew he had to think fast. That’s what caused him to save the life of a sweet … Read more

The Healthy Hound Newsletter #8

In This Issue

● Potentially Dangerous Flea & Tick Products
● How To Avoid A Coyote Attack
● Community Raises Funds For Sick Puppy
● Help Your Anxious Dog Tackle The Holidays
● Dangerous Gifts Dog Parents Should Avoid
● 10 Canine Christmas Cookie Recipes

Creating The Perfect Holiday Meal For Your Dog!

With the holidays approaching, your dog needs something special to feast on. Of course, you’re cooking the tastiest meals for you and your human family, but what about your furry family members? They’ve been eating the same boring food all year long, so it’s time to give them a change and make their holiday feasts special. iHeartDogs has partnered with “I and love and you”, a company that makes extremely good food for your dog. They have lots of amazing, … Read more

How To Celebrate Your Dog This Holiday Season

With Christmas approaching, you’re likely trying to find the perfect gifts for your loved ones. When it comes to your dog, you might think a new toy or a delicious treat is the best way to show them you care, but this holiday season, you need to celebrate your dog. Show them you love them more than you usually do and give them something they’ll never forget. iHeartDogs has partnered with “I and love and you” because they know exactly … Read more

Family Devastated After Veterinarian Accidentally Euthanizes The Wrong Dog

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A Utah family is dealing with the emotional aftermath of losing their Beloved pup, Ziggy. After being rushed to emergency surgery with an intestinal blockage, the veterinary office made a devastating mistake. Ziggy’s family became concerned when the dachshund puppy began to experience difficulty breathing, along with the inability to keep his food or water down. They rushed their furry companion to the emergency vet closest to their home, where they learned that he would need emergency surgery. Ziggy had … Read more

Frenchie Mercury Transforms From Paralyzed Pup To Shining Star!

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The Mr.Mo Project is an organization dedicated to finding loving homes and lifetime support for senior dogs in need. Though their typical rescues are often grey in the face, they just couldn’t turn away a spunky French Bulldog puppy with an incredible will to persevere. Chris and Mariesa Hughes were notified of a tiny Frenchie puppy with a devastating spinal defect that left him unable to use his back legs. Though their rescue is dedicated to the support of senior … Read more

Santa Visits Romanian Shelter Each Year To Pass Out Toys & Goodies

Sava’s Safe Haven is a family-run animal shelter in Galati, Romania. Since 2012, veterinary technician Alexandra Sava has worked alongside relatives and friends to care for dogs, cats, birds, and rabbits in need. Every holiday season, the family prepares a special holiday event for the pets in their care. They gather donated toys, treats, food, and supplies from all over the world, and pile them into Santa’s sack. On Christmas Day, Sava’s father or brother dons a festive red suit … Read more

Sorry, But This All Dog Nativity Play Is Better Than Yours

If you’re planning on putting up a Nativity play this year, you’ve got some real big shoes to fill. The best Nativity play I’ve ever seen happened in England with the cutest cast of actors: all dogs. And lucky for us all that event was captured on camera. Wags to Riches, a family grooming service, has absolutely mastered the art of the group dog photo. This, as many of us dog people know, is no easy feat. Thank goodness for … Read more

Dogs Adore and Cats Don’t Care, Even While Dreaming

We’ve all been there. Your pooch is sleeping soundly beside you on the couch and she enters REM sleep. Her body is twitching, eyes are moving rapidly, and she may even whine, growl, or lightly bark. Your little sweetie is dreaming. There is no question that dogs dream, personifying and connecting them even further to their human companions. But what do they dream about?   Harvard Psychologist Makes a Doting Assumption Dr. Deirdre Barrett is a Clinical and Evolutionary Psychologist … Read more

Theo The Bulldog Is Completely In Love With Metal Bowls

Most dogs have a favorite toy, blanket, or bed that they can’t live without. For Theo the Bulldog, that favorite item is a metal bowl! Ever since he was a puppy, Theo has had a strange fascination with bowls. Specifically, metal bowls that he can hold and carry around. He treats them like they’re his toys and he just can’t live without them! So, his family has embraced this strange behavior to make Theo as happy as possible. When Theo … Read more

Disabled Cocker Spaniel’s Wheelchair Is Stolen During Car Theft

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Violet is a triumphant pup that has faced her struggles head on and thrived despite her disabilities. The Camp Cocker Rescue has supported her through each step of her journey, but now they’re in need of some help. Violet is lucky enough to have scored herself a permanent foster home with a dedicated foster fur mom. Though her foster mom has done everything in her power to help Violet succeed, there are some things that are just out of her … Read more

Coast Guard Rescues “Pup In Distress” Found Swimming Out To Sea

An adventurous senior dog is safe thanks to the U.S. Coast Guard. Officers from the Fort Myers Beach station were participating in an off-shore training exercise last week when they received “a call of a pup in distress.” Three crew members motored out to where the dog was spotted, and were able to pull him aboard. The pooch was tired, but unharmed. Luckily for us, the sweet rescue was caught on video! When the boat first pulled alongside him, the … Read more

Dog Flies Down The Stairs In Hilarious Video

Tank the Bull Terrier recently got the hang of going up and down the stairs at his home. The stairs are completely wooden, so they can be slippery and scary for any dog. Not for Tank though! He is a brave dog that seems to think he’s indestructible. He quickly decided that he was able to do more than just go up and down the stairs, and he proves that in a new viral video. In the video, Tank is … Read more

Dog That Was Stolen In A Violent DeKalb Carjacking Has Been Found

Rosa Smith is a 74-year-old retired attorney. She and her Yorkie mix, Daphne, are very close, and Smith could not imagine losing her sweet dog. However, one day, while Smith was standing outside her car at a gas station in DeKalb, Georgia, she was violently attacked out of nowhere, and three men drove away with her car. Smith was left in immense pain and sadly, poor Daphne was still inside the stolen vehicle. After the attack, Smith was hospitalized. She … Read more

Comet, Cupid, Donner, And Blitzen Are Just 4 Of 9 Reindeer-Named Adoptable Puppies

Sorry if this article gets the song stuck in your head, but you’ve probably already been listening to it the past week or so anyway. This is a story about puppies and “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer.” Yep, that famous inspirational tune about a ridiculed reindeer who rose to the top gave nine newborn puppies their names. A miniature Daschund named Olive arrived at the RSPCA Halifax/Hudds/Bradford last month with her litter of three-week-old puppies. Staff believe they had been bred … Read more

110-Pound Dog Was Rescued From A Small Drain Pipe

The Wading River Fire Department was having an exciting day as they escorted Santa Claus through the community to greet children and collect donations for a food drive. However, they did not expect to have such an interesting rescue mission following this fun event. During this escort, they received a call about a dog that had gotten stuck in a drain pipe at the Great Rock Golf Course in Long Island. Officials raced to the scene right away. While Jim … Read more

Senior Dog Adopted Then Abandoned Tied To A Rail 48 Hours Later

At 11-years-old, Max was dropped off at The Animal Care and Control Team of Philadelphia (ACCT Philly) when his family moved away. It seemed like the pup was getting a second chance to live out his golden years in a loving home when he was adopted again. But just 48 hours later, the neighbor of a volunteer discovered him tied to a rail in the cold, abandoned. That volunteer, Monica S. da Costa, was both heartbroken and repulsed by Max’s abandonment, … Read more

Dog Gets So Excited Over Her New Snow Goggles

Maple the Border Collie has always been an energetic pup. She loves swimming, going for car rides, and of course, playing in the snow! She goes on so many adventures with her mom, Jessica Dylan Mann, and she always has a blast. One day, Mann discovered a unique item that could enhance all of Maple’s exciting adventures. That simple item was Maple’s very own dog snow goggles! While most dogs would probably steer clear of having to wear something on … Read more

After Owner Dies In A Crash, Firefighters Go Above & Beyond To Help His Dog

Days before Thanksgiving, firefighters in Plainville, Illinois responded to a rollover crash involving a tractor-trailer. The driver died on impact, but rescuers heard someone – or something – inside the vehicle. It was a dog barking! Firefighter/paramedic Mike Walden and Lt. Brandon Vainowski began searching the wreckage and emerged with a little gray Schnauzer.  Fire Chief Jon Stratton contacted the Animal Care Center of Plainfield and brought the dog in to be checked out. It turned out she had been … Read more

Bringing Your Dog to Work Could Help You Be More Productive

Every dog parent has wished that they didn’t have to leave their furry friend behind when they go to work. It’s heartbreaking to see their sad puppy dog eyes looking at you as you exit the house. Many dog parents probably even wish that they could bring their dog to work with them. It might seem like an unrealistic expectation, but a study in 2017 actually proved that dogs could help their humans simply by coming to work with them. … Read more

Pro Athletes Cuddle With Abandoned Bait Dog In Anti-Dogfighting PSA

Meadow was found on the side of the road in a box. She was covered in wounds, both new and old. Caretakers were unsure if she’d survive. Meadow was most likely used as a bait dog. She was too gentle to fight other dogs, but she did fight for her life – and won! For those who do not know, a bait dog is typically small and mild tempered. Larger fight dogs are egged on and forced to attack these … Read more

From Bait Dog Dumped in the Trash to ASPCA Dog of the Year

Her name is Sweet Pea. Aptly named, her gentle nature and readiness to give love are only the tip of the iceberg. This girl has been through all the worst experiences humans can create for animals. It’s a suffocating list of abuses that would leave most of us jaded at best and hopeless at worst. But not Sweet Pea. She survived, thrived, and rose all the way to the throne of ASPCA Dog of the Year. Found in a Dump, … Read more

Shelters Notice More Families Surrendering Senior Dogs To Buy Puppies Instead

There is a disturbing national trend of dog parents surrendering their senior dogs just to purchase a puppy instead. It’s a horrible reality that many shelters have been noticing, especially around the holidays. However, older dogs often need familiarity and comfort the most. So, many people are wondering how any dog parent could do something so horrible. It’s a difficult situation for any dog lover to understand, but Pam Peebles, the executive director of the Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control … Read more

Australian Shepherd Who Went Missing After Rollover Crash Has Been Found

In dangerous situations, dogs rely on their fight or flight instincts far more than human beings do. Many dogs will flee from car crashes and if not found, can succumb to injuries. People in Green Bay, Wisconsin refused to let that happen to an Australian Shepherd who went missing after a rollover crash on Friday. Bridget, a vet technician at Bay East Animal Hospital, was driving with her Australian Shepherd “River” on the way to work when the accident occurred. … Read more

UPDATE: Boomer Won’t Spend One More Thanksgiving In A Shelter!

Just a few weeks ago, we shared a story with you about a longterm shelter resident’s sad second consecutive Thanksgiving in an Ohio shelter. Today I’m thrilled to present this update: The rest of 7-year-old Boomer’s holidays will be spent with a loving family. Allison Black adopted Boomer from Richland County Dog Warden’s Office & Shelter on December 3rd, the shelter proudly shared on Facebook. The pure joy on both faces is obvious. Right away, Black reported how happy Boomer … Read more

Jury Convicts Man Who Left Pit Puppy To Drown Of Animal Cruelty

Sometimes there is unfathomable cruelty in the world, and our poor canine friends find themselves helplessly on the other end of it. Last summer, a Pit Bull puppy in New Jersey was left in a cage by the water’s edge during a rising tide. Thanks to a Good Samaritan, he barely made it out. At last, the man responsible for that cruelty will be forced to pay for his actions. This past Thursday, a Monmouth County jury convicted 35-year-old Aaron Davis … Read more

Heartbroken Smokies Groundskeeper Is Surprised With A New Puppy After Losing His Beloved Hound Dog

If you have been to A Tennessee Smokies game in the last 8 years, you probably knew about the head groundskeeper’s dog, Hound Dog. After losing Hound Dog last month to a stroke, the team came up with a special plan to help soothe his broken heart. Hound Dog was an important part of the Tennessee Team, and was adored by baseball lovers around the country. Aside from his role as the unofficial Smokies mascot, was how important of a … Read more

Santa’s Elves Are Delivering Adopted Dogs On The Pawlar Express This Christmas And It’s Something To Bark About!

Grand Prairie, Texas is delivering special packages this holiday season. The Prairie Paws Adoption Center is promising to bring the magic of Christmas to any family who adopts a new four-legged family member on December 21st or 22nd. It’s creatively called the Pawlar Express! It’s an exciting collaboration they’ve created alongside the big man himself! Find A New BFF Then Let Santa’s Elves Do The Rest Hitching a ride on the Pawlar Express for your new family member is simple. Step … Read more

Pit Bull Saves Woman’s Life, Changing Her Views On His Breed Forever

Simba the Pit Bull is one of the friendliest dogs in his neighborhood. He lives in an apartment in Sweden with his dad, Arjanit Mehana. When they walk together, Simba often tries to seek attention from other neighbors, but many of them try to avoid him simply because of the stereotypes they’ve heard about his breed. One woman in particular had very strong feelings about her thoughts on Simba. An older woman that lives near Simba was always very cautious … Read more

Lost Dog Surprises Her Favorite Kid When He Gets Picked Up From School

Piper is a lucky little Pug with an amazing family. She’s also very young, playful, and curious. One day when April Licata let the small dog outside to go to the bathroom, Piper got away when she wasn’t paying attention. Licata was devastated, but she knew her two oldest kids, Carter and Natalie, would be even more heartbroken. So, the family searched long and hard for their beloved dog. Licata spread the word about Piper as much as possible. She … Read more

Dog Hops Into An Austin Animal Services Vehicle And Makes Himself Comfortable

After a recent flooding in Texas, Austin Animal Services drove to the affected area to see if any dog parents needed assistance. WA2S Films rode along for this adventure to get this outreach mission on video. They weren’t sure exactly what to expect, but they sure didn’t plan on having a furry passenger join them. As they were driving, a dog hopped in the vehicle, making himself very comfortable. In fact, he was so comfortable that he refused to leave! … Read more

Man Drives With An Injured Coyote Thinking It Was A Dog

Eli Boroditsky was driving to his night shift in Manitoba, Canada through dark rural streets. Suddenly an animal shot across the street and unfortunately, Eli’s car clipped the passing creature. Fully believing he had an accident involving a dog, he got out of his car to render aid. Using a small flashlight, he illuminated the ditch where the pup had landed. Sure enough, he’d hit a dog and carried her off to his car to take her to safety. But it wasn’t … Read more

Man Digs His Trapped Dog Out Of A Hole With His Bare Hands

Anyone that has ever loved a dog knows that they are an important member of the family. Most dog lovers would do anything possible to make sure their furry friends are safe and happy at all times. That’s exactly how Alan Whitton feels about his beloved Jack Russell Terrier, Mitzi. He and Mitzi were just going for a daily walk when suddenly Mitzi became lost. Whitton refused to rest until he was reunited with his pup once again. When Whitton … Read more

Hartz Flea & Tick Products Continue To Cause Animal Deaths

You wouldn’t think we’d have to be hyper-vigilant about the dog shampoos we find on the brightly lit shelves of our favorite grocery store. Just because it’s got a nice label and a place on the shelf, doesn’t mean it’s necessarily safe though. This is especially true about flea and tick drops and shampoos for dogs and cats. One brand, in particular, Hartz, has consistently been under fire for the rate at which its toxic products lead to animal deaths. … Read more