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Woman Wakes Up To Find Intruder Snuggling With 120 Pound “Guard Dog”

Lynn Sarver of Waukesha, Wisconsin woke up bright and early on Tuesday ready to begin a New Year. But what started as an ordinary morning took a strange turn when she walked into the living room. There, snuggled up with her 120 pound Mastiff Benton, was a sleeping man! Sarver took a closer look to ensure the stranger was not her own son. “You know because he had dark hair and kind of the same size,” she told WISN News. Once … Read more

5 Reasons Sharing Your Bed With Your Dog Is Awesome

Most dog owners allow their dogs in the bed at night more often than they’d care to admit, but we’ve got some reasons why sharing your bed with your dog is beneficial. After all, dogs can certainly make the ultimate companions. So if you’re looking for the perfect excuse to let your pooch in your bed every night, check out this list! #1 – Dogs Relieve Anxiety Dogs are known to relieve anxiety in humans, as can be proven by … Read more

10 Things We Should Do For Our Dogs That They Can’t Do For Themselves

Dogs can learn to perform incredible tasks. Some safeguard our very lives by detecting explosives or alerting us to dangers in the home. But there are certain things our pups just cannot do without our help. When it comes to health and safety, they depend on us to make the best decisions on their behalf. Every pawrent should do the following 10 things for their dogs’ wellbeing because they do so much for us! 1. Watch their waistlines. Dogs cannot … Read more

5 Reasons Dogs Don’t Like Certain People

Getting on a dog’s good side might seem as easy as having a pocket full of treats and knowing the trick to a good belly rub, but our four-legged friends aren’t always easy to please. They’re quick to judge a person’s character, and there are some people they simply don’t like. It could be a specific person in the dog’s family, a friend of their owner’s, or a random person they meet on the street—but dogs know a foe when … Read more

Facebook Is Giving Away $100,000 To The World’s Most Amazing Dog!

You know you have the best dog in the world – and so do all your friends, family, co-workers, and total strangers on the internet. Facebook Watch and The Dodo are giving you an opportunity to prove it to the world and win $100,000 while you’re at it! Be aware – the competition is fierce (yet cute and cuddly!) These dogs sing, dance, skip and play. But even if your dog’s only talent is clearing the room, don’t be afraid … Read more

Hospice Care For Dogs: Is It The Right Choice For You & Your Pooch?

Hospice care for dogs is a relatively new concept. Sadly, the word hospice often carries a negative stigma. It reminds us of lonely, sterile rooms and the fear of impending death. In reality, hospice care can be a wonderful gift for terminally ill people and pets. Rather than focusing on invasive medical procedures, hospice provides physical and emotional comfort to end-of-life patients and their families. What is hospice care for dogs? Hospice care is based on the philosophy that people … Read more

Dog Who Spent 8 Years In A Shelter Celebrates Her First Christmas At Home!

Roxy was only two years old when she found herself in a shelter kennel. Shelter staff knew that as a Pit Bull breed she would have a tougher time finding a home than other dogs, but nobody expected her to spend nearly eight years there. Despite her long stay, Teckles Animal Sanctuary staff described Roxy as a fantastic, cheeky dog. “She can be a little nervous on occasion but with the bribe of a few sausages, she becomes very loving … Read more

Sweet, Fearful Dog And Her Feline Best Friend Need A Home Together

Update: The first home the Berksons found was, unfortunately, not the right place, but they believe they’ve now found the perfect person for these two! We found a wonderful home for Libby and Gizmo!  We went out of the country for a week and boarded them together at a local pet resort that also does training. Given Libby’s timid nature, we paid for her to have socialization training as we didn’t want her to lose ground. Two trainers worked with … Read more

Update: Hundreds Come Forward To Adopt Noseless Rescue Dog

Update: One year later, Sniffles’ story has gotten a second wind and has gone viral again! Poodle and Pooch Rescue wanted to let everyone know that Sniffles is doing great, but they have other dogs in need! “Sniffles was a special guy we had this time last year and he became a viral superstar. It seems as though he’s making his rounds again on the internet again. Sniffles was adopted in January, and is currently enjoying the life of love … Read more

Pet Rescue Organizations Come Together To Save 90 Lives

It’s amazing what can be done when people work together! Over the weekend, several organizations pulled together to transport about 90 adoptable cats and dogs from the Harris County Animal Shelter to rescues in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Harris County Animal Shelter is one of the many shelters in the busy Houston, Texas area. Like any other shelter the staff is working hard towards becoming a “no kill” facility but is constantly pushed to capacity. The Lance McCullers Jr. Foundation, Houston PetSet, … Read more

What To Do If Your Dog Eats Human Medication

Dogs are curious animals that love to participate in everything we do. When it comes to medications, these traits sometimes put them in danger.  According to the Pet Poison Helpline, nearly 50% of all pet poisonings involve human drugs, with pain relievers, antidepressants and heart meds topping the list of common culprits. Do you know what to do if your dog eats human medication? Whether or not a case of accidental medication ingestion is a serious emergency depends on the type … Read more

Dunkin’ And Baskin-Robbins Aim To Fill Children’s Hospitals With Therapy Dogs

Just in time for the holiday season, restaurant chains Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins have announced their newest initiative in spreading joy to children across the country. The two companies already power the independent charitable organization called The Joy in Childhood Foundation, and their newest endeavor focuses on bringing smiles and laughter to children’s hospitals nationwide. The program is called Dogs for Joy, and it’s going to provide full-time therapy dogs to patients, families, and staff at many of the country’s children’s … Read more

Wrapped In Love – Group Of Crafters Change The Lives Of Rescue Pets Through Love And Kindness

When it comes to pet rescue, everyone can do something. Patrick Desjardins had been involved for some time as a volunteer with a Colorado dog rescue. His friend, Julie, also had a love for animals and wanted to help but was unable to contribute in the same ways. During a visit, Patrick noticed that Julie was a crocheter, and suggested that she could make blankets for the dogs. The rescue was grateful and when they posted the photos of Julie’s … Read more

5 Pet Toxins To Watch Out For In Your Household Cleaner

When we clean our homes, we assume we’re making it safer for our loved ones. By getting rid of the microscopic viruses and bacteria that hang around our homes, we’re keeping a clean, healthy environment. But what we use when we clean can have negative effects on our pets’ health if we’re not careful. You wouldn’t leave open containers where your dog could drink them, but those same chemicals can still be harmful to your pets once they’re out of … Read more

8 Things You Must Know Before Giving Your Dog a Joint Supplement

Thank you for viewing this free guide. Please feel free to print and distribute this information. #1: For Maximum Efficacy, Choose a Supplement with Multiple Active Ingredients Rather than Just One When most people think of a joint supplement, glucosamine comes to mind. And while glucosamine is the most popular active ingredient, other powerful nutraceuticals include MSM, chondroitin, and turmeric (curcumin). If your supplement contains only one or two of these, you may be missing potential benefits. Different dogs respond to different … Read more

Ford Designs Noise-Canceling Dog Kennel To Help Pups With Noise Phobia

Noise phobia is an issue faced by countless pet parents. They try everything including weighted blankets, thunder shirts, aromatherapy, Hemp oil, and anti-anxiety medications with varying results. Sometimes their efforts pay off, but every clap of thunder or bang from a nearby firework has potential to send their dogs scurrying for safety. Dogs with noise phobia bark, whine, and whimper, and sometimes they can’t help but destroy the house in their fear. In the worst case scenarios, dogs have jumped … Read more

New York City Commuters Enjoy “Stationary Figures”

You don’t have to be a dog lover to enjoy William Wegman’s work, but it helps! MTA Arts & Design makes New York City’s public transit a little brighter for commuters by installing visual and performing art in the public spaces. One of their latest installations is a commission from artist William Wegman, who is best known for his work with his Weimaraners! “Stationary Figures” consists of 11 glass mosaic panels displayed on the walls of the 23rd Street station. … Read more

Dog Given Up For Bad Behavior Finds Exactly What He Needs In Prison Training Program

A year ago, Titan was a big dog with even bigger behavioral problems. His owner didn’t want him, and his size combined with his lack of training left him with few options for his future. A good Samaritan was desperately trying to find the 90-pound Great Pyrenees/shepherd mix a good home, but the task was far from easy. She tried local rescues, posted to social media, and sent emails to everyone she could think of. The responsibility of taking in … Read more

Pooch Approaching 1 Year In A Shelter Hopes To Ring In 2019 With A Forever Family

It has been 350 days since Marsha arrived at All 4 Paws Animal Rescue in Pawley’s Island, South Carolina. In just two weeks, this sweet Shepherd Mix will mark one full year in a shelter and begin 2019 in a cage. That is, unless her forever family comes along first! When Marsha was rescued last December, she was accompanied by two adult dogs later determined to be her children. What All 4 Paws didn’t know was that this dutiful mama … Read more

5 Important Steps To Take When You Witness Animal Cruelty

animal cruelty

Adopting, volunteering, and donating are all part of being an animal advocate, but there’s another important piece of that puzzle. Dogs rely on compassionate people to speak up for them. They need neighbors, friends, and random strangers to recognize the signs of trouble and do something about it. Whether it’s a case of neglect or physical abuse, what you decide to do when you witness animal cruelty matters. Reporting animal cruelty saves lives, and no one should ever turn their … Read more

16 Very Good Dogs Help Create The Perfect Pup-Prosal For NYC Couple

It’s a shame Maurice Goldstein is off the market. Based on his recent proposal to girlfriend of four years, Laura Stampler, he’s going to make one heck of a husband! Not only did Goldstein blanket a mountaintop in rose petals, he also hired an a capella group to belt out Stampler’s favorite Disney and Motown hits. Pretty amazing right? Well brace yourselves, it gets better. For the pièce de résistance, Goldstein arranged for 16 dogs to crash the proposal at just the … Read more

Top 10 Military Dog Names For 2018

Military families come in all shapes and sizes. They’re big, small, come with dual-military parents, single parents, and more than a few have their fair share of fur. Military pets, dogs especially, travel the world with their humans moving from one assignment to another. They watch their favorite people leave without knowing if they’ll come back, and they jump with joy when their long-lost family members finally walk through the door (military dog reunion videos, anyone?).  Military dogs support spouses … Read more

Christmas Tree Holiday Hazards To Avoid For Your Pet’s Health

Decorated trees are a staple of the holiday season. It just doesn’t feel like Christmas until a colorful, twinkling topiary adorns your living room. But did you know that your Christmas tree could pose a variety of hazards to your pets? From needles and tree water to ornaments and electrical cords, here’s everything you need to know to keep your canine companions and feline friends safe this holiday season. Pine & Fir Needles Live Christmas trees shed their needles, and … Read more

Man Takes Terminally Ill Dog On Cross-Country Road Trip To Visit Her Birthplace

Mura has been the constant companion of Paul Heroux ever since she was a tiny pup. She was even by Heroux’s side as he campaigned for – and won – the role of mayor in Attleboro, Massachusetts. Together, they visit schools and nursing homes, walk in local parades, and shake paws at city hall. Sadly, the 11-year-old Japanese wolf dog was diagnosed with a terminal form of blood cancer in September. “She’s my best friend and she’s been with me at the … Read more

A Beautiful Way To Give Back & Save Lives This Holiday Season

There’s a reason the holidays are called “The Giving Season.” People feel compelled to reach a little deeper into their pockets at this time of year. Our favorite causes benefit from the giving spirit we feel near the end of the year. iHeartDogs supports a number of different causes. This year, we’d like to ask you to help us save lives this holiday just by continuing your holiday shopping. Adoptable pets fill shelters all over the country. Many of these pets … Read more

4 Facts About Dog Eyesight You Probably Don’t Know

dog eyesight

Staring into a dog’s pleading eyes might cost you the last bite of your sandwich or the leftovers from your dinner plate, and there’s no doubt in your mind those big puppy dog eyes hold a lot of emotion. There’s more to your dog’s eyes, however, than their ability to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. The matter of dog eyesight is subject to more than one misconception. Understanding how your dog sees the world will make your … Read more

Is Your Dog Constantly Biting Their Paws? Here’s How You Can Help

Does your dog chew her paws? Is she always biting at her feet, no matter how much you encourage her otherwise? Does nonstop paw licking drive you and the dog to madness? Licking and biting of the toes and paws is a common behavior among dogs. While some degree of licking is considered normal, dogs with red, swollen paws or chronic saliva staining likely have an underlying medical problem. If this sounds like the state of your dog’s feet, it … Read more

Labels Like Mutt And Mixed Breed Are Out, American Shelter Dog Is In

For millions of shelter dogs across the country, labels matter. Dogs are labeled almost as soon as they walk through the shelter door. For a lucky few, labels like Labrador Retriever and Siberian Husky will work in their favor. They’ll be scooped up by adopters looking for purebred dogs before the dogs even know what’s happening. But for the majority of dogs in the shelter system, the idea of breed labeling won’t be as gratifying. Thanks to breed discrimination and … Read more

Is There A Reason You See More Male Police Dogs Than Female?

Whether it’s sniffing out evidence or chasing down bad guys, working K9s are an important part of police forces all around the globe. These dogs undergo intense training, are made to pass important tests, and go to work everyday alongside their handlers. You’ll find several different breeds wearing official police vests, but the best dogs on the force always have specific characteristics in common. To be a successful police dog, they need to be intelligent, focused, and determined. As it … Read more

Dedicated Dog Found Guarding Family’s Home After It Was Destroyed By The Camp Fire

When the Camp Fire approached Bill and Andrea Gaylord’s 80-acre ranch they had only minutes to evacuate. They attempted to bring their two Anatolian Shepherd dogs, Miguel and Madison, to safety but both dogs ran off to protect the property, and they were forced to leave without them. The Camp Fire burned over 153,000 acres, destroying buildings and tearing apart families. Many people, like the Gaylords, were forced to leave their pets and were uncertain about their fate. However, organizations … Read more

Apparel And Accessories To Keep You Cozy, Warm This Season & Give Back

It’s here, and I hope you’re ready! WELCOME, COLD WEATHER! We missed you! We missed the hot chocolate and crackling fires! Watching holiday specials with our pups and the smell of baking goodies from the oven! And we missed the layers! The layers and layers of warm, cozy clothing that we get to swaddle ourselves in while we do all the fun cold-weather stuff we’ve been looking forward to all year. If there’s any downside to the layers, it’s that … Read more

12 Ways To Spoil Your Senior Dog This Holiday Season

The holidays are a great excuse to shower your pooch with gifts. Our faithful friends may not understand the significance of the season, but they deserve the best no matter what day it is! If you really want to spoil your senior dog this holiday, focus on presents that serve a purpose. Health, comfort, and mental stimulation are gifts that will keep on giving all year long! 1. PACK&DEN Faux Fur Memory Foam Bed According to the National Sleep Foundation, dogs spend … Read more

13 Ways To Spoil Your Dog This Holiday Season

spoil your dog this holiday

You’ve made your list and you’ve checked it twice, now it’s time to get busy and spoil your dog this holiday season. There might have been a few incidents involving a chewed up pair of shoes or a midnight howling session, but your pup is still very much on the nice list. To show him how much you care, now is the perfect time to treat him to fun new toys and yummy snacks. iHeartDogs has spent all year looking … Read more

The Science Behind Cute Aggression: Why Some People Want To Squeeze Adorable Creatures

Have you ever looked at your dog and thought, “You’re so cute, I could just squeeze you!”? You certainly aren’t alone! The desire to pinch a baby’s cheeks or bite an adorable pup’s ear are examples of a phenomenon known as cute aggression. Recent research suggests this desire for rough lovin’ is not only normal, it may serve an evolutionary purpose. Katherine Stavropoulos, a licensed clinical psychologist with a background in neuroscience, first heard the term “cute aggression” when she … Read more

Senior Veteran Rescues Fellow Sailor’s Senior GSD From Euthanasia

At 93-years-old, Navy veteran George Johnson is still a hero. His most recent deed saved the life of a senior German Shepherd George served in the U.S. Navy in three wars – World War II, The Korean War, and The Vietnam War. During his WWII deployment, he received a “Dear John” letter from his then-sweetheart but found comfort in caring for dogs. George is particularly fond of white German Shepherds. It had been a few years since his last GSD, … Read more

Here’s How To Share Your Favorite Seasonal Flavors With Your Dog!

It’s amazing what a little treat can do for your day – especially this time of year. The streets and stores may be packed with busy shoppers, but rest assured that you can step into any bakery, no matter the hub-bub, and take a big, deep breath of “ahhhh!” It’s the time of year where the smells of ginger, cinnamon and sugar are wafting through the air. Sometimes you have to stop running around, sit a moment, and get yourself … Read more

Litter Of Pups Rescued After Hurricane Florence Is Thriving!

Part of each sale through the iHeartDogs store is donated to Greater Good, which helps support various charities. Thanks to customers like you, happy endings, like the one below, are made possible.  “We rescued this litter of seven four-week-old puppies (Florence, Amanda, Potato, Bulldozer, Barry, Trex, and Sophie) in a makeshift shelter in South Carolina following Hurricane Florence in September 2018. The owner was threatening to shoot the puppies, so a neighbor took them to safety. “The puppies were too young to eat solid food, … Read more

Abandoned Dog Finds New Home With Veteran

Dani, abandoned and pregnant, wandered to a family’s home in West Virginia. Unable to care for Dani, the family reached out to their local rescue. They took Dani in, and there she had three beautiful puppies. Her journey, however, was just beginning. Dani made her way to Tales of Courage in Danbury. It was apparent to everyone who met her that she was a special dog. Dani’s vibrant personality won over everyone she met. Tales of Courage spoke with Rachael, … Read more

Getting A Puppy For Christmas: Problem Or Opportunity For Animal Shelters?

A muffled bark, the slight shaking of a suspicious-looking package—families everywhere will wake up Christmas day to a special Christmas puppy. Children will squeal with glee, and even adults won’t be able to resist the magic of a cute bow-wearing puppy scampering around the Christmas tree. It’s the kind of holiday scene fit for movies and commercials, but no one ever shows what happens once the bow comes off and the holiday season ends. Giving pets as presents is an … Read more

10 Most Popular “Designer” Dog Breeds

What’s funny about the term “designer” dog breeds is that these dogs are all just adorable (but trendy) mutts! These 10 “designer” dog breeds consistently top the list when it comes to popularity. Remember that shelters are full of adorable mutts desperately in need of homes. Adoption is the best option! If it’s mixed breed like these that suits your fancy, look into breed-specific rescues with the breeds up for adoption. #1 – Cockapoo This adorable pup is a cross … Read more

Wounded Foster Dog Delights Rescuers With A Surprise Delivery

When a Canadian foster pawrent agreed to take in a seriously injured dog, she knew it would be a lot of work. But she had no idea she would also end up caring for 11 puppies! Nancy Duykers of Winnipeg learned about Sheba when she was taken in by Feed the Furbabies Canada. The dog had a terrible wound on her left front leg which may have been caused by a gunshot. At first it seemed as if Sheba’s leg … Read more

10 Laid-Back And Loyal Dog Breeds For Introverts

Being an introvert can mean a lot of different things. It could be that small talk is best avoided, a small group of close friends is better than any party, and if you do go out, you might be the person who’d rather talk to the dog than anyone else. When it comes to choosing a best furry friend, an introspective personality bonds best with a like-minded dog. These are the dogs that, instead of rushing up to every stranger … Read more

7 Ways To Make Sure You Never Lose Your Dog Again

lose your dog

One second your dog is by your side, and the next, you see her turn tail and sprint in the other direction. Or maybe you let her into the yard for a bathroom break, and now she’s nowhere to be found. It takes only one second, only one small mistake, to lose your dog. It’s a situation that can quickly turn dangerous, and every second she’s missing, you don’t know if she’s hurt, afraid, hungry, or in trouble. It’s up … Read more

Former President’s Service Dog Moves On To New Assignment Now That His Mission Is Complete

Politics may be a sore subject for most people, but whether you vote red, blue, or purple, we can all agree that dogs are amazing. A photo went viral recently of former president George H.W. Bush’s service dog, Sully, curled up in front of his best friend’s flag-draped casket. The photo was originally shared to Sully’s Instagram account with the short caption, “Mission complete.”   View this post on Instagram   Mission complete. A post shared by Sully H.W. Bush … Read more

Update: Petco Offers Free Trade-Ins For Dog Parents Affected By Vitamin D Recall

Updated 12/6/18 This week the FDA released a statement regarding the recall of several dog food brands affected by potentially dangerous levels of Vitamin D. In response, Petco announced they do not carry any of the brands listed in the recall. Furthermore, they are offering free trade ins for dog owners who did purchase affected products. The company provided the following advice for concerned pet parents: Visit the FDA’s website for more information and a complete list of affected products. If you believe … Read more

Groomers Spruce Up Abandoned Dog & Find Him The Perfect New Home

Debo arrived at Detroit’s Canine to Five boarding and grooming shop three weeks ago. The 2-year-old Pit-Boxer mix was timid, malnourished, and crawling with fleas. He also had wounds on his face. Debo’s “owner” requested a bath and nail trim before heading to his car to get his wallet. He never came back. “He probably was 15 pounds less than he is now, really shy, really scared,” Liz Blondy, owner of Canine to Five, told Fox News. Rather than calling animal control … Read more

Dog Digs Up Woolly Mammoth Tooth Right In His Backyard

Kirk Lacewell from Whidbey Island, WA wasn’t surprised when his 8-month-old pup named Scout started digging in the yard. It’s typical behavior for an energetic yellow lab, but what wasn’t typical was what Scout dug up. In a shallow hole in the backyard, Scout pulled out what looked like a rock. He started carrying it around as a prized possession, and that’s when Lacewell realized things weren’t exactly as they seemed. Never before interested in things like rocks or sticks, … Read more

Rhode Island Rescue Helps Woman With Cancer Care For Her Four Senior Dogs

When Linda was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, her world flipped upside down. She was forced to leave her home in Fort Lauderdale, Florida to move in with her sister in Rhode Island. It was a big change, and her difficult treatment and new home weren’t the only issues on her mind. There were four Chihuahuas, 16-year-old Scaredy, 14-year-old Brewsy, 14-year-old Suzy, and 14-year-old Runty who were depending on her. She knew life was about to change for them … Read more

UPS Driver “Delivers” Shelter Pup To His Own Home

Ernie, an energetic 1-year-old Pit Bull mix, had been at the City of Buffalo Animal Shelter for a few months. Even with a sponsorship that reduced his adoption fee he’d been having trouble finding the right place. Ernie needed a home where he could be the only pet – a quality that works against a lot of adoptable shelter dogs. Jason Coronado, a UPS driver was delivering packages to the City of Buffalo Animal Shelter October 5th when he met … Read more

Neglected Dog Abandoned In Dumpster Gets Adopted

Hearts around the world broke this month when a 2-year-old Chihuahua was found discarded in a Des Moines, Iowa dumpster, but his story is finally getting it’s happy ending. The Chihuahua had been locked in a kennel and thrown away like garbage, but the container broke when it landed in the trash. The dog was able to climb to the top of the pile, where he was spotted by a passerby. The pup, named Oscar by the Animal Rescue League … Read more

Best Mom Ever Sends Son A Picture Of His Dog Every Day For A Year While Overseas

Imgur user and World’s Best Mom Baja29reallyiam2 knew that when her son went away to school overseas for a year that he would be missing his dog terribly. She wasn’t going to just let the year go by while her boy’s heart broke, so every day for that year she sent him a photo of their family’s dog! Dog ownership was hard earned for the young man. As part of a deal he made with his father, he agreed to … Read more