Page 577 – iHeartDogs.com

Shelter Dog Meal Donation Count:

Learn More

Coyote Attacks On Dogs Are Rising In The U.S. — Here’s How To Keep Your Pet Safe

Heartbroken pet parents around the country are warning others to be alert. Several coyote attacks on dogs, mostly small breeds, have already been documented just this year. If you weren’t aware, you may be surprised at how widespread and healthy the coyote population in the U.S. is. Coyotes can be found in all 48 contiguous states and Alaska, and the population appears to be rising – and so is the number of attacks on pets. Though some people may get a … Read more

How Your Relationship With Your Dog Affects Your Mind & Body

You probably don’t need a scientist to tell you that your dog makes you feel happier and more relaxed, but did you know that your mind and body actually have physical responses to being around your four-legged best friend? In the Business Insider video below, author Meg Olmert, who wrote Made For Each Other: the Biology of the Human-Animal Bond, discusses how dogs and humans have developed a symbiotic relationship. As a matter of fact, she notes that pups who … Read more

Know Your Rights When It Comes To Saving Dogs In Hot Cars

Every year, pet parents are warned not to leave their animals in parked cars, which can get fatally hot, even on a temperate day. Yet every year, we hear reports of pets who are subjected to unnecessary suffering because of the selfishness or ignorance of their owners. While the majority of pet parents have the common sense to avoid this situation, there are always those few who refuse to do what’s best for their companions. When this happens, it’s up … Read more

Temperatures Are Beginning To Soar: Here’s How To Protect Your Dog From Head To Paw

With temperatures surpassing 100 degrees in some parts of the country, animal experts are reminding pet owners of some simple ways to keep their dogs safe and healthy. It’s of utmost importance to be aware of how stifling heat affects our pets, often more than us humans. A little precaution can go a long way, preventing injury, vet bills — and most importantly, it can save a life. Head for the water In a story by abc 30, pet parents … Read more

9 Reasons Why Male & Female Dogs Hump, Even If They’ve Been “Fixed”

For us humans, it’s not exactly socially acceptable to go up to an acquaintance — or even an old friend, for that matter — and start humping them. Nor is it appropriate to go to town on a toy or pillow with onlookers nearby. However, our canine companions don’t have these kinds of social inhibitions, but for us humans, our pups’ frisky behavior can be pretty embarrassing! Sometimes, a mount can even lead to an altercation between two dogs. So … Read more

Has Your Dog Recently Taken Antibiotics or Steroids? Make Sure They’re Getting This Too

If you’ve ever taken antibiotics or steroids, you know that they can do wonders for illness, but can also wreak havoc on your stomach and digestive system! The same can be true for your dog, especially if they cycle through the medication regularly. The big difference is, your pooch has no way to tell you he’s still not feeling well even after he gets a clean bill of health. But as an informed pup parent, you can help ease the … Read more

The Easy (Natural) Trick To Helping Your Pup Overcome Diarrhea

Whether your dog’s bouts with diarrhea are frequent or limited to periods of stress, you want to help your dog feel better as quickly as possible. While chronic, unexplained, or mucous-covered diarrhea warrant trips to the vet, there is one thing you can do to help your dog overcome occasional diarrhea and recover more quickly. You may be taking probiotics yourself, but did you know they can be just as beneficial for your dog as they are for you? New … Read more

The 9 Most Mischievous Dog Breeds

There’s a pup out there for every personality, from companion couch potatoes, to social butterflies, to playful buddies that are perfect for active families. And there are some dogs whose genetics combine high intelligence with high energy, so if they’re not properly occupied, they may get themselves into some trouble! To be clear, these aren’t the “problem children” of the canine world, they’re the dogs who love to work, hike, play, run, excel at agility, and more! But left to … Read more

Hotel Foster Program Is Getting Shelter Dogs Adopted In Record Time

Adopting a rescue dog usually means visiting a shelter to pick out the perfect pooch, but a hotel in Orlando, FL is putting a new spin on pet adoption. Thanks to a specially designed in-lobby dog house, Aloft Orlando Downtown recently launched a foster program aimed at getting more local dogs adopted into loving families. The hotel is working with the non-profit Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, and they’ve already found homes for two shelter dogs in need. https://www.facebook.com/aloftorlandodowntown/photos/pcb.1119745448165929/1119742564832884/?type=3&theater The … Read more

Service Dog Who Gave Birth In Airport Raises Concerns Among Dog Lovers

It’s likely that you’ve seen the story of a service dog who became a mother in a Tampa airport. The video of Mom, Dad, and their eight new pups was posted to Twitter by first responders from Tampa Fire Rescue who assisted in the delivery. Since then it has been shared thousands of times over social media and covered by news outlets all over the world as people cooed over the adorable new pups. All done! #AirportPuppies @FlyTPA @CityofTampa pic.twitter.com/NIoXr0HCZW … Read more

Devoted Foster Mom Has Cared For More Than 500 Puppies

Sharon Oiler of Houston, Texas has had several jobs including IT salesperson, business owner, and P.E. coach, but her most rewarding career to-date is fostering puppies as they await adoption. Over the past 15 years, Oiler estimates she has cared for roughly 500 rescue pups. Oiler is part of the foster program for the Rescued Pets Movement, a non-profit organization that rehabilitates and transports homeless dogs and cats to communities throughout the country where they have a greater chance of adoption. … Read more

Student’s Service Dog Honored With Yearbook Photo & Plaque

11-year-old Rachel is graduating from elementary school, and while her teachers and friends will miss her this summer, they know she is in good paws! Rachel’s service dog, Linda made quite an impression during her once or twice weekly visits to the school. In addition to assisting Rachel, who has spina bifida and relies on a wheelchair, Linda also took it upon herself to comfort other students. “She will be there to help with tests when the kids start to … Read more

10 Dog Breeds That Are Social Butterflies

There is a dog personality for just about every lifestyle, and if you’re a person who enjoys going out and meeting new people, you may want to consider a pup who’d love to tag along. (Just know that this means they’re going to hate being left alone!) Or, perhaps you’re looking for a friend for the shy or anxious dog that you already have at home. An outgoing companion may be just the friend she needs to get her out of her shell! If you … Read more

Rescue Dog With Rare Tumor To Undergo Groundbreaking Surgery

“Lucky” probably isn’t the first word that comes to mind when you look at Bliss. The 2-year-old pooch has an extremely rare skull tumor, and was abandoned at a Texas kill shelter by her family. Alone, frightened and confused, Bliss had no idea her luck was about to change!   Friends of Emma Medical Rescue, a major medical/critical care home located in Fort Worth, learned of Bliss’ plight and agreed to take her in. Thinking her condition was terminal, they prepared … Read more

Studies Suggest That Probiotics May Help With Your Dog’s Skin Itchiness & Allergies

Probiotics have exploded in popularity in recent years. In fact, a survey done by the NIH shows that they’re now the 3rd most popular natural supplement taken by people. Related: 12 Best Probiotics for Dogs While most people and pets are first given probiotics for digestive reasons, recent human and animal studies have begun to show promise in use with patients suffering from allergies. Let’s review some of the evidence to-date: What Do The Studies Say? A 2017 study by … Read more

10 Ways A Probiotic Can Help Your Dog

Up to 80% of a dog’s immune system is located in the gastrointestinal tract, so maintaining digestive health means far more than just preventing upset bellies and loose stools. Probiotics replenish the levels of healthy bacterial flora in the GI tract and prevent the “bad” bacteria from taking over. Dogs with unbalanced flora levels experience digestive problems and are more susceptible to illness. In the following 10 circumstances, probiotics can be especially beneficial to your dog. All of these stressors … Read more

5 Reasons To Talk To Your Dog On A Daily Basis

Do dogs like it when you talk to them? Of course they do! Talking to your dog might seem one-sided, but you don’t need a verbal response to know chatting with your furry best friend is a good idea. No matter how silly you think having a talk with your dog sounds, striking up a conversation while you’re out on a walk, cuddling on the couch, or preparing dinner has benefits you probably don’t know about. Yes, your neighbor might … Read more

10 Things We Should Do For Our Dogs Because They Can’t Do It 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

UPDATE: Former Owner Of Puppy Found Written On With Permanent Marker Speaks Out

Update: The woman who abandoned Marvella, the pup covered in writing with permanent marker, spoke out about her actions. She claimed that after a dispute with her landlord, she tried to bring the pup to shelters but they were all full. “After I did that cringe-worthy moment where I was just like, ‘Oh my gosh, I messed up. She looks awful,” she admitted in a story by WHOtv. She added: “I knew with everything inside of me that she would … Read more

Can Probiotics Help My Dog’s Stinky Farts?

If your dog can clear an entire room with noxious flatulence, it’s time to do something about the stench. Their extreme gas assaults the senses, and it’s also giving your pup serious tummy troubles. The reason why your dog’s farts are especially nauseating could be due to diet or how fast they eat. Lucky for your sense of smell, dog probiotics are the secret weapon to help stop the stink. Probiotics are microorganisms also known as “good bacteria.” They’re essential … Read more

Houston Shelter In Desperate Need After Taking In 200 Surrendered Animals Memorial Day Weekend

The Harris County Animal Shelter in Houston, Texas took in over 200 surrendered pets over Memorial Day weekend, 100 on the Friday before the weekend alone. In a city of over 2 million, Houston’s shelters are frequently at or over capacity, but for a facility only designed to hold 150 animals, this is an extreme burden. Kennels are designed to hold only one or two animals, but at the moment there are some pets living four-to-a-kennel. Most were formally surrendered, … Read more

This Inexpensive Supplement Is Showing Promise for Dogs with Itchy Skin

More and more research is showing us the incredible impact that gut health has on all aspects of wellness. And although we don’t fully understand the mechanism, there does appear to be a link between the GI system and allergies or food intolerances in dogs. In 2015, a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published by the NIH showed that the probiotic strain Lactobacillus sakei given for 2 months significantly reduced the disease severity of dogs diagnosed with canine atopic dermatitis.  (We’ve also … Read more

VA Hospital Welcomes Disabled PTSD Therapy Dog

Honor is a 2-year-old Golden Retriever raised from puppyhood to serve individuals with PTSD. Unlike other dogs trained by the non-profit organization, Therapetics Service Dogs of Oklahoma, Honor was born without metacarpals where her back right paw would be. Unable to place her as a regular service dog, Therapetics donated Honor to the Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center. There, her prosthetic limb makes her all the more relatable to the heroes she comforts. “So devoted. She doesn’t know she’s handicapped. She’s the … Read more

Can Probiotics For Dogs With Allergies Help?

Dog Probiotics For Allergies Probiotics have exploded in popularity in recent years. In fact, a survey done by the NIH shows that they're now the 3rd most popular natural supplement taken by people. Related: 12 Best Dog Probiotics While most people and pets are first given probiotics for digestive reasons, recent human and animal studies have begun to show promise in use with patients suffering from allergies. Let's review some of the evidence to-date: What Do The Studies Say About ... Read more

6 Things To Consider Before Buying a Canine Probiotic

If you’re reading this, you’ve likely heard the benefits of giving your dog a probiotic. Studies on both humans and animals have suggested that these healthy bacteria have countless benefits to dogs, including balancing an upset digestive tract, alleviating allergies and itchy skin, managing stress, and much more. Based on our research, we believe the following 6 considerations must be made when choosing a probiotic product for your dog: #1 – Choose A Product That Contains Multiple Strains Of Probiotics … Read more

10 Times Probiotics Are Especially Beneficial To Your Dog

Up to 80% of a dog’s immune system is located in the gastrointestinal tract, so maintaining digestive health means far more than just preventing upset bellies and loose stools. Related: iHeartDogs Rates the Best Probiotics for Dogs Probiotics replenish the levels of healthy bacterial flora in the GI tract and prevent the “bad” bacteria from taking over. Dogs with unbalanced flora levels experience digestive problems and are more susceptible to illness. In general, probiotics are a healthy addition to your … Read more

Dog Rescuer Dies Unexpectedly, Leaving Her 25 Senior Dogs In Desperate Need Of Homes

Marline was loved by her friends and family, and known as an avid dog lover in the rescue world. She adopted 33 dogs, as well as horses, and had a particular soft spot for senior pooches who had a hard time finding homes. Once welcomed into Marline’s family, the pups were able to roam and play on her 10-acre property in Northern California. Sadly, Marline, who was in her 70’s, passed away unexpectedly, leaving her huge four-legged family behind. Thankfully, … Read more

Dozens Of Dog Flu Cases Diagnosed In Manhattan & Brooklyn

City canines beware: the dog flu has arrived in New York. Veterinarians in NYC are warning their clients that the H3N2 viral strain has sickened at least three-dozen dogs in Brooklyn and a handful in Manhattan since April. Approximately 500 West Coast pups have been affected by the dog flu this year, and it seems the virus has now spread east. Dr. Maxim Lotovsky of the Jacobson Veterinary Clinic in Brooklyn recommends dog owners become familiar with the facts and … Read more

Uncovering The Mystery Of How Some Lost Dogs Find Their Way Home

Sassy, Champ, and Shadow from the movie “Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey” are famous for their cross-country adventure to find their family, but they’re not the only four-legged family members to demonstrate an incredible ability to find their way home—no map or GPS involved. Not every dog has this seemingly supernatural gift, but every now and then, a story surfaces about a dog that travels miles through dangerous wilderness, rough countryside, or confusing city streets to be reunited with the … Read more

New Study Shows That Dogs May Be Better At Rationalizing Than Humans

Humans learn through imitation. From early lessons in walking and talking to more advanced tasks like operating a car; we tend to watch our peers, then mimic their actions. While dogs have evolved to parrot some of our facial expressions, one scientist suggests they may be the more free-thinking species. Laurie Santos, a cognitive psychologist at Yale University, demonstrated this theory at the 2018 Liberty Science Centre Genius Gala. Santos presented the audience with a box featuring a cylindrical handle … Read more

Your Purchases Support Dogs Like Russell, A Formerly Matted Stray Who Was Rescued & Adopted!

Part of each sale through the iHeartDogs store is donated to Greater Good Charities, which helps support various charities. Thanks to customers like you, happy endings, like the one below, are made possible.  Russell was a stray Shih Tzu found roaming the streets of Detroit. His fur was horribly matted and overgrown, and he had skin issues due to lack of care.   Russell had all but given up on life until NBS Animal Rescue (NBSAR) came into the picture and made all the difference. … Read more

This Deserving Veteran Was Paired With His “Best Buddy,” Thanks To Your Support!

Part of each sale through the iHeartDogs store is donated to Greater Good Charities, which helps support various charities. Thanks to customers like you, happy endings, like the one below, are made possible.  W.A. is a Vietnam veteran who served in the Army. He cannot drive any longer due to his poor vision and struggles with balance and dropping items, as well as PTSD. He lives on a ranch and enjoys the simple life. His family reached out to Patriot PAWS after W.A. was no … Read more

New State Bill Seeks To Ban Surgical Debarking

A Michigan lawmaker may have just become dogs’ best friend by introducing a bill to ban surgical debarking. State Representative Tim Sneller (D) has proposed this new ban based on the belief that robbing a dog of his bark is abuse, and hopes to prevent veterinarians from performing the surgery. Surgical debarking is a procedure that removes tissues from a dog’s vocal cords, softening a dog’s bark to a near whisper. Dogs use their barks for a variety of reasons, … Read more

The Digestible, Teeth-Cleaning Chew Your Dog Will LOVE

The right doggy dental chews can help reduce plaque and tartar, preventing tooth pain and staving off illness. They also freshen breath, making cuddle time far more pleasant! Sadly, not all dental chews are as safe and effective as Happy, Healthy Brushy Sticks. Many commercial dog chews are not readily digestible, meaning they could become lodged in the stomach or intestines. These situations can quickly escalate to a life or death emergency involving painful, expensive surgery. Caring for your dog’s teeth … Read more

20 Fruits & Veggies Your Dog Will Love!

They say that sharing is caring, and we love sharing yummy treats with our dogs! However, there are two potential problems with feeding Fido extra snacks. For starters, table scraps can contain ingredients that are safe for us, but dangerous for our dogs (for instance, onions and chocolate). Second, too many treats can make our pups pack on the pounds, which can lead to a host of health problems. The good news is, there are plenty of fresh, healthy “human foods” that … Read more

With The Help Of 20 Strangers, This Hitchhiking Hound Trekked 2,000 Miles To Get Back Home

It was just another day walking his dogs in Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania when Adam Herbaugh spotted a lonely Coonhound wandering along his route. He took the hound to a veterinarian where his chip was scanned, and an incredible discovery was made. Although he was in good health, this pup was long way from home — 2,000 miles to be exact — and the story of how he returned from Pennsylvania to Arizona is making headlines! Once Jake’s microchip was scanned … Read more

Senior Dog Who’s Called A “Burden” Escapes Euthanasia & Finally Finds A Loving Family

Coco is living proof that it is never too late to find your bliss! This 12-year-old cutie was picked up by animal services and brought to LifeLine Animal Project‘s Fulton County shelter an astonishing six times in one year! Finally, her owner had enough. He threatened to euthanize Coco.   “The last time she came in, her owner told us that she was a burden and he was going to have her euthanized by his vet,” LifeLine Animal Project’s Public Relations … Read more

9-Year-Old Boy Takes A Picture With Every Dog He Pets

It doesn’t matter whether they’re big, small, fluffy, young, or old—Gideon Kidd loves dogs. The nine-year-old loves their different personalities and the way they roll over on their backs for belly rubs. He even loves it when they lick his face. Gideon has one dog at home named Walter (along with three cats and two gerbils), but his love for furry friends extends to the entire canine kingdom. All he wants to do is pet dogs, and while he’s at … Read more

Can Dogs “Fake” Illnesses & Injuries For Attention?

First off: if your dog seems hurt or ill, he probably is. Canine instinct is to avoid showing signs of weakness, so take it seriously if something seems off. With that said, there are some crafty canines who seem to put on a cough or limp in order to score extra love and attention from their humans. The idea of dogs “faking” illnesses or injuries to gain attention is not only supported by countless pawrents, many veterinarians also back the … Read more

This Terminally Ill Pup Is Looking For A Family To Fill Her Final Days With Love

Foster and adoption aren’t the only ways to help a homeless dog in need. When you become a “fospice” (foster + hospice) parent to a terminally ill pet, you selflessly provide them with the love, care and comfort they so richly deserve in their final days. Akira is a sweet pooch in search of a fospice home to call her own.   She arrived at LifeLine Animal Project‘s DeKalb County Animal Services shelter in Atlanta, Georgia last June, and has … Read more

5 Herbs, Plants, & Spices For Soothing Your Dog’s Aging Joints

We love our dogs from puppyhood into their golden years, and we want to help ease them into this life stage with as much health and comfort as possible. Just like us, our pups’ joints get stiff and achey as they age, but unlike us, our dogs can’t reach for the pain relievers or supplements themselves. It’s a natural and inevitable part of life, and our dogs depend on us to take care of them and give them everything they … Read more

Dry Nose Is A Common Issue With Many Boston Terriers, Here’s How You Can Make Life Easier On Them

You have likely heard that a wet nose equals a healthy dog. In reality, the canine nose alternates between wet and dry in response to a variety of factors. Problems arise when the nose becomes so dry that it cracks or flakes. Overly dry noses are uncomfortable and can affect the way your dog experiences the world. Scent is arguably a dog’s most important sense. It’s how they first recognize the ones they love and explore the environment around them. … Read more

Dry Nose Is A Common Issue With Many Boxers, Here’s How You Can Make Life Easier On Them

You have likely heard that a wet nose equals a healthy dog. In reality, the canine nose alternates between wet and dry in response to a variety of factors. Problems arise when the nose becomes so dry that it cracks or flakes. Overly dry noses are uncomfortable and can affect the way your dog experiences the world. Scent is arguably a dog’s most important sense. It’s how they first recognize the ones they love and explore the environment around them. … Read more

Dry Nose Is A Common Issue With Many Pugs, Here’s How You Can Make Life Easier On Them

You have likely heard that a wet nose equals a healthy dog. In reality, the canine nose alternates between wet and dry in response to a variety of factors. Problems arise when the nose becomes so dry that it cracks or flakes. Overly dry noses are uncomfortable and can affect the way your dog experiences the world. Scent is arguably a dog’s most important sense. It’s how they first recognize the ones they love and explore the environment around them. … Read more

These 13 Dog Breeds Are The Worst Swimmers

All dogs have their strengths and weaknesses. While some pups glide through the water as gracefully and effortlessly as Michael Phelps, others flounder (pun definitely intended). The breeds on this list may still be able to enjoy the water, but they should definitely do so while wearing a life vest! 1. Basset Hound These sad-looking hounds have large heads, dense bone structure, long, thick torsos and disproportionately short legs, making swimming very difficult. In addition to their non-buoyant bodies, Bassets … Read more

6 Possible Reasons Why Your Dog Hates Their Harness

You expect your dog to jump for joy when they see you pull out their harness and leash. It means you're about to take them on an awesome adventure, and all dogs love going on walks, right? But what happens when instead of eagerly waiting for you to hook them up, your dog runs and hides? Or maybe they cower and tuck their tail between their legs. They might even get aggressive and try to nip the hand holding the ... Read more

Update: Senior Foster Dog Brings Happiness To 104-Year-Old Man’s Final Years

When asked if dogs are the secret to a long life, Milt Lessner tells Jen Reeder with BBC News, “I’d like to think so.” At 104 years old, he probably knows better than anyone. Milt grew up with dogs and had dogs in his home his entire life, until his wife and pets died several years ago. Once a psychiatrist (now retired), Milt would bring his dogs to work with him to help his patients relax. Even though he had … Read more

The Top 8 Strongest Dog Breeds

Whether they’re pulling you down the sidewalk during your daily walk or excelling at canine sports, there are more than a few brawny dog breeds known for their power and strength. You’ll recognize them as the dogs bred for things like farm work and protection, and they’ve also found places as prized family pets. They’re big and built with noticeable muscles, but they can also be sweet and silly. They’re the jocks of the dog world, and we can’t help … Read more

California Police Dog Makes Huge Drug Bust First Day On The Job

For six weeks, K9 Rye trained alongside his human handler, Officer Iside, to prepare for his future as a police dog. The two-year-old Belgian Malinois learned obedience and protection, and he also spent hundreds of hours learning the special skills he’d need to be a successful drug detection dog. The hours were long, yet rewarding, and at the end of the program, K9 Rye and Officer Iside received high marks in every category. It wasn’t an easy process, but K9 … Read more

The 10 Least Obedient Dog Breeds

All dogs need love, attention, and training – but some dog breeds need a little more than others. Every dog breed has their strengths and weaknesses. That doesn’t make any particular breed less loveable, but these 10 dog breeds may need a lot more patience and obedience training than others. These breeds tend to be intelligent, independent, and stubborn, making then the least obedient dog breeds. Successfully training one of these breeds should win you an award! #1 – Afghan Hound The … Read more

Soldier Finally Reunites With The Dog She Rescued In Iraq

Nine months have passed since Sgt. Tracy McKithern fell in love with a pitiful pup while deployed to Iraq. After caring for her overseas and battling to bring her home to the United States, McKithern’s efforts finally paid off with an emotional airport reunion.  Source: U.S. Soldier reuniting with dog she rescued more than a year ago in Iraq by WFTS McKithern is a combat photographer and a major dog lover. After arriving in Erbil, Iraq in April 2017, she … Read more