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Specialty Pet Food Company Faces Lawsuit For “False Advertising”

Recently, a class action lawsuit has been filed against Champion Pet Food, makers of specialty dog and cat food brands ACANA and Orijen. The lawsuit, which represents consumers in Minnesota, California and Florida, claims that these products exhibit “false advertising” among other violations. These brands are advertised on their website as providing “biologically appropriate” diets of the highest quality for both dogs and cats, as well as using “fresh regional ingredients” that are packaged in high-tech Dogstar Kitchens. That’s why consumers … Read more

Delta Mixes Up Puppies Shipped By Breeder More Than Halfway Across The U.S.

Another mix-up in canine “cargo” occurred this week, but luckily, these pups are alright. Still, they had one heck of a journey – one that was likely stressful, uncomfortable, and terrifying. A breeder from Virginia shipped two puppies via a plane headed for Idaho. There was supposed to be a layover in Minneapolis, but instead, the flight landed in Detroit for the night. Meanwhile, Josh Schlaich, one of the pups’ new owners, got a call from Delta saying the flight would … Read more

Activists Gather At La Guardia, Demanding “Justice For Kokito”

Animal rights activists gathered at La Guardia on Sunday in order to express their concerns over animal safety in airports. The protesters had a message —  “Justice for Kokito” — referring to the French Bulldog puppy that died on a United Airlines flight last week.  The death occurred after the passenger was told by a flight attendant to put the pup (in his carrier) in the overhead bin, where he likely suffocated. United Airlines defended the flight attendant by … Read more

Dog Won’t Stop Itching? Why Pet Parents Are Turning to Neem Oil for Relief

Between allergies, fleas, mites, and standard dry skin, an itchy dog is a miserable dog. There are several reasons why Fido might be scratching more than usual, and it’s not always easy for dog owners to find the kind of relief they need. You can try bathing them and ask your veterinarian for medication, but there’s an all-natural way to stop the itch. Neem oil is something humans have been using for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. It can … Read more

Are Your Dog’s Paw Pads Hairy? It Might Be Hyperkeratosis. Here’s What To Do.

  What Exactly is Paw Pad Hyperkeratosis in Dogs? The prefix “hyper” refers to overstimulation, and “keratosis” comes from the word “keratin.” You most likely recognize that word from your shampoo bottle, and that’s a good place to start. Keratin is a type of fibrous protein used as one of the main ingredients in hair, claws, and the outer layer of skin. Dogs naturally produce their own supply of keratin, but hyperkeratosis means they produce much more than they need. … Read more

United Faces Another Dog Dilemma After Dog Placed On Wrong Flight

A United Airlines flight was diverted from its intended destination of St. Louis, Missouri to Akron, Ohio when it was discovered that a dog in cargo had been loaded onto the wrong plane. Flight 3996 left from Newark, New Jersey on its way to St. Louis when the airline discovered there was a canine passenger aboard who was not bound for St. Louis, but was intended to be on a flight to Akron, Ohio instead. The airline decided that the best course … Read more

Rescue Dog Hilariously Invents His Own Agility Routine At Crufts Dog Show

The world famous Crufts Dog Show just celebrated its 127th year. A very different show than it was in 1891, it now features working dogs and rescue dogs alongside traditional show dogs. Baron Kratu von Bearbum is one of the fabulous pups that participated in the Rescue Dog Agility event. Described by owner, Tessa Eagle Swan as “a natural clown,” Kratu decided to put his unique stamp on the course and create his own routine. The resulting footage became instant internet gold … Read more

Every Purchase Of Good Reasons Dog Treats Helps Those Living With Autism And Developmental Disabilities

Do you have Good Reasons for choosing the treats you give your dog? Vicki Sylvester has been working with people with disabilities as the CEO of Community Based Services, a non-profit in Westchester, New York, for over 35 years. Community Based Services (CBS) helps those with autism and other developmental disabilities learn life skills, find assistance, and get involved in their communities through volunteer work and recreation. One of their most exciting initiatives has been Good Reasons – a business … Read more

How To Heal Your Dog’s Tight, Uncomfortable Elbow Calluses

What Is An Elbow Callus and What Causes Them? Sometimes called pressure sores, dog elbow calluses can appear as a result of your dog’s body protecting the bone (the ulna) that protrudes from the leg. Continual trauma caused by your dog laying down on hard surfaces causes the skin to thicken in order to protect the bone. As a result of the thickening skin, the fur often falls out and the surface becomes coarse. Tile, concrete, and hard dirt surfaces … Read more

The WOOFF Act Will Keep Dogs Out of Airplane Overhead Bins

One day after a dog died on a United Airlines flight, U.S. congress began making moves to better protect pets when they board planes. The Welfare Of Our Furry Friends (WOOFF) Act was officially filed on Thursday to prohibit animals from being placed in overhead bins. While United has a reputation for dismal service when it comes to transporting pets, the most recent incident prompting this new law has reached a new level of reproach. Catalina Robledo and her daughter boarded … Read more

Dog Is Stolen From Shelter Moments Before Being Adopted

Brad, a 5-pound Yorkie, was stolen right out of his kennel at PAWS Atlanta while his hopeful future mom was signing his adoption paperwork. He had only been at the shelter for a week and had already had several people inquire about him. Kay Kenimer had seen Brad’s picture online and had her heart set on adopting him. She’d just lost her 14-year-old Maltese earlier this month and was ready for a new companion. As she was paying the fee and … Read more

Glee Actor Matthew Morrison Expresses Outrage Over Animal Abuse On Movie Set

The producers of a Chinese science fiction movie called Crazy Alien are being accused of animal abuse toward a German Shepherd who was appearing in the film. The movie stars Matthew Morrison, who played Will Schuester on the show Glee, however he was not on set when the alleged abuse occurred. According to PEOPLE, an unidentified whistleblower contacted PETA in hopes that they could take action on the incident. On their blog, PETA reports: “In a log of the incident, the whistleblower states, ‘On November 28th, … Read more

Dog Showers: The Latest Home Trend Every Pup Parent Needs

We’ve all been there. You get caught in the rain while walking your pup or take a particularly messy romp on the beach. It’s all fun and games until it comes time to bring your muddy, stinky pooch back into the house. Luckily there is a stylish solution to this very problem. According to a recent New York Times report, dog showers are the latest home decor trend among pet parents. Ken Malian, co-owner of GreenRose Fine Homes & Design in … Read more

The Top 5 Issues Affecting Senior Dogs According To Our Survey & What Owners Can Do

Earlier this month, we shared a poll on our iHeartSeniorDogs Facebook page to identify the most common health problems facing older dogs. Five ailments stood out overwhelmingly above the rest: joint pain, hearing loss, skin allergies, vision loss, and dental problems. It’s heartbreaking to see your best friends suffer, so read on to find out how you can improve their quality of life when it comes to these issues! 1. Joint Pain/Arthritis More than 1,000 responders noted that their senior … Read more

A Story Of Love: A Little Brown Dog And His AgriChew

Ike’s a chocolate-colored Chihuahua Dachshund mix (so we think), I call him my lil’ choco-chi-weenie. We got him from a local shelter in November 2016. Like plenty of dogs, Ike likes toys. He’s pretty excited when I bring a new toy home, but for the most part the toy is a big hit for a bit and then is forgotten in a corner after a few days. It’s fine, and I actually try to rotate his toys so that I … Read more

2 Simple Ways To Protect Your Dog Against Painful Springtime Ear Infections

Every veterinarian knows spring has arrived through one simple indicator: a dramatic rise in dogs battling painful ear infections. 🙁 In fact, ear infections are in the top 2 most common reasons that owner’s take their dog to the vet. Ear infections in dogs are not something that should be taken lightly. They are painful and uncomfortable for your dog, and if you have a breed prone to ear infections, it can be difficult and time consuming having to treat … Read more

11 Dog Breeds That Make Great Running Partners

Waking up for an early morning run and spending weekends improving your endurance will be a lot more fun when you have a running partner matching your pace. You can cajole your two-legged friends into being your mental motivation, but dogs have long since been prized partners when it comes to everyday exercise. They’re athletic and enthusiastic, and the right dog will push you toward achieving your goals. They won’t bail on your early morning runs, and you’ll never hear … Read more

How To Help Your Dog Recover From Surgery

No two post-operative recoveries are exactly alike. Age, overall health, and type of surgery all play a role in the length and quality of a dog’s recovery period. While the specifics may vary, there are several things you can do before, immediately after, and in the days post-op to ensure your dog recuperates as quickly and painlessly as possible from any procedure.   Before Surgery The best indication of how your dog will behave after surgery is his or her … Read more

Check Out The Campus At Amazon’s Dog-Friendly Headquarters

Amazon is a notoriously dog-friendly workplace, but it was only recently disclosed exactly how dog-friendly they really are. In a recent blog post, Amazon announced that as many as 6,000 dogs come to work with their owners at their Seattle headquarters every day. That’s a lot of dogs! A post shared by The Life of a Coporate Dog (@dogsofamazon) on Aug 21, 2015 at 2:12pm PDT The doggy culture was started early on when a husband and wife who both … Read more

Petition To Airlines Goes Viral After Dog Dies Shoved In Overhead Bin

You may have seen recent reports of the death of a pup while aboard a United flight from Houston to New York earlier this week. A flight attendant told a family that their dog, who was in a TSA approved carrier, would need to be put in the overhead bin. After some argument, the attendant assured the family that their dog would be safe, but three hours later when they arrived at their destination, he was dead. This isn’t the … Read more

DNA Test Reunites Littermates Displaced By Hurricane Harvey

DNA testing is all the rage these days. With a simple cheek swab, curious humans can learn all about their own cultural heritage or unlock their beloved mutt’s unique blend of breeds. When two families living nearly 1,000 miles apart submitted DNA tests to Embark Veterinary, they expected to learn the genetic makeup of the rescue pups they adopted in the wake of Hurricane Harvey. They had no idea they would discover their dogs’ long-lost littermate in the process! Ollie was … Read more

Facebook Message From A Stranger Returns Stolen Husky To Rightful Home

6 months after Feather the Siberian Husky was stolen right out of her own backyard in Moline, Illinois, her mom, Briana Martin, received a Facebook message from a stranger. The stranger said that he had just found out from his cousin that his parents – whom he is estranged from – had stolen Feather and taken her to live with them in Cedar Rapids, Iowa – nearly 90 miles away from where they had stolen her. https://www.facebook.com/525456724510533/photos/a.525461044510101/711824685873735/?type=3&theater Martin passed along … Read more

Picasso, The “Perfectly Imperfect” Celebrity Dog, Is Being Honored For His Courage

One year ago, a crooked-faced pooch named Picasso was rescued from a kill shelter along with his brother, Pablo. Liesl Wilhardt, the executive director of Luvable Dog Rescue in Oregon, welcomed the bonded pair with the intention of finding them the perfect adoptive family. But when tragedy touched both Wilhardt and Picasso, the veteran rescuer realized that Picasso was already home. Check out our original story on Picasso! A post shared by Picasso (@picassothewonkyfaceddog) on Feb 20, 2018 at 6:31am PST Last week, The … Read more

Man Keeps Promise By Re-Adopting The Dog He Was Forced To Surrender 4 Months Ago

Lewis Jiminez adopted Titus as an 8-month-old puppy from the Austin Animal Center in 2013, never imagining that fate would force him to return the pup in November of 2017 over a dispute with a landlord. On February 25, Jiminez finally found new housing that allowed Pit Bulls and he was able to adopt Titus again. Thankfully, he hadn’t been adopted by anybody else while Jiminez searched for affordable housing that would allow Titus to come home again. Shelter staff, who … Read more

10 Signs It’s Time To Switch To A New Vet

Having a good relationship with a veterinarian is an important part of being a responsible pet owner. From annual check-ups to emergency situations, you need to know your chosen vet will give your pup the best possible care. Trust, respect, and confidence all come into play, and unfortunately, you can’t always find the ideal person with the first office you schedule appointments with. If a recent experience has you doubting whether or not you’ve found “the one,” pay attention to … Read more

Dog Rescued From Burning Home Reunites With The Heroes Who Saved Him

Alex Collins, a single mother living in northern California, was out interviewing for a new job when she received a devastating phone call. Her neighbor called to say her house was in flames, and her dog was still inside. Thankfully, the woman’s toddler was safe at daycare, but when she arrived home, she had no idea whether her dog named Boo would live or die.   Thanks to the dedicated work of the Chico Fire Department, Boo was rescued from … Read more

England Plans To Join The Rest Of The UK In Banning Shock Collars

With both Wales and Scotland prohibiting electric shock collars used for animal training, England was the only country in the UK not on board with the ban. A group of lawmakers and animal advocates, however, are pushing to change that. A plan is in the works to bring about a ban that will unite the UK in a stance against the unnecessary suffering caused by shock collars used for dog training. Environment Secretary Michael Gove announced on Sunday the government’s … Read more

Could Your Dog Suffer From A Collapsing Trachea?

Have you heard about collapsing trachea before? If you have a small or toy dog breed, your dog may develop a collapsing trachea, so it’s important for you to understand what collapsing trachea is, what the symptoms are, and how it’s treated in order to prevent your dog from suffering needlessly before you take him to the vet for a diagnosis. And while larger dog breeds may also suffer from a collapsing trachea, small and toy breeds are significantly more … Read more

10 Common Skin Issues In Dogs

Does your dog seem to be itching more than usual lately? Maybe he has irritated areas on his skin or bald patches. Unfortunately, skin issues are one of the top reasons for vet visits, and there are more than 160 skin problems that can plague dogs, so getting a proper diagnosis and treatment for your poor pup can be difficult. Some skin problems are more common than others, though; here are 10 common skin issues that can plague dogs.   … Read more

Can Dogs Suffer From PTSD? What Can I Do For My Dog?

Can dogs suffer from PTSD? Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) was not added to the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders until 1980. Even then, it remained a controversial and poorly understood diagnosis for decades to come. One question that is asked more and more frequently from individuals rescuing pups from shelters or abusive conditions is – is my dog suffering from PTSD or some kind of lingering trauma from past abuse or neglect? It is no … Read more

7 Things Every Dog Parent Should Know About Kennel Cough

How much do you really know about kennel cough? You may have heard it referred to as Bordetella, since Bordetella bronchiseptica is one of the most common causes of kennel cough. You may have been told your dog is required to have been vaccinated against it before going to doggy daycare or even the groomer. But would you know if your dog got it? Do you really need to go to the vet if they start coughing? What is the … Read more

Dog Or Hooman? You Be The Judge

They say that dogs and their people start to resemble each other after a while, but this pup’s face just looks strikingly… human! Yogi is an adorable pooch whose photo is making dog lovers scratch their heads. Sure he’s a breed mix, but does that include being part person?   Actually, 1-year-old Yogi is a Shih-Poo (a Shih Tzu / Poodle mix) who was recently groomed. Perhaps it’s his stunning green eyes, his full pink pout, or his model-like bone structure … Read more

Scientists Prove Your Dog Listens Better When You Use “Dog-Speak”

Scientists from the University of York recently published a study showing that dogs respond better to “dog-speak” – using dog-related words in a high-pitched tone of voice – over any other speech patterns. Because of course it takes a scientific study to prove what dog owners already know: you can drone on and on about your long day at work and your dog won’t blink an eye, but as soon as you perk up your voice and ask “Who wants a treat?” … Read more

10 Things You Might Be Doing That Make Your Vet Crazy

Veterinarians truly want to do what’s best for the pets in their care, but sometimes owners do things that make the otherwise rewarding career of being a vet frustrating or disheartening. You try to give your dog the best care possible while being a good person in the process, but sometimes your love for your dog may cloud your vision and cause you to say or do things that drive your veterinarian crazy. Are you guilty of doing any of … Read more

Formerly Abandoned Dog Is Desperately Searching For A Special Forever Home

This dog is gorgeous, sweet, playful, and has been homeless for most of her life. Survivor Tails Animal Rescue found Zelda through a shelter in Georgia. Abandoned while pregnant, Zelda was living with a foster while riding out her pregnancy, but Survivor Tails saw promise in her, and decided to take her in. After giving birth, she and her puppies moved North to Survivor Tails’ shelter in Boston, MA. Zelda raised her pups until they were old enough for adoption, … Read more

Rescuers Pull Malnourished Dog Out Of Storm Drain Just In Time

A Connecticut community came together on Thursday to save the life of a dog in need. After a severe storm ripped through the area, a homeowner noticed a sad-looking dog in their yard. They quickly called the local Wolcott Dog Pound, and a rescue team was soon on their way. https://www.facebook.com/WolcottDogPound/photos/pcb.1998735930155039/1998735216821777/?type=3&theater When animal control arrived on the scene, the dog (later named Stormy) was terrified of the group of humans approaching her. She ran down the road, and her would-be … Read more

New Study Shows Why Your Dog Always Seems To Know How You’re Feeling

Our dogs make our worlds complete, but to them, we’re their whole world. We give them love, treats, and play, not to mention necessities like food, water, security, and shelter. They depend on us to fulfill all their physical and emotional needs, so it’s really no surprise that they’ve learned to observe us intently in our daily lives. But have you ever wondered how your dog always seems so in tune with how you’re feeling, for better or worse? As … Read more

Dog Returned To Shelter For Being “Too Nice” Finds Family As Nice As She Is

If you are looking for a rough, tough Pit Bull type dog to protect your property and frighten away intruders, Helena is definitely not your girl. She was adopted from LifeLine Animal Project‘s Fulton County Animal Services shelter in October, but returned this week because she is just “too nice”. “Yes, she really was returned for being too nice,” LifeLine Animal Project spokesperson Karen Hirsch told TODAY. “It was obvious the gentleman was looking for a guard/protection dog. He also suggested she … Read more

Famous Former Bait Dog Inspires New Grooming Salon

Six months ago Abigail the Pit Bull was awarded one of the highest honors a dog can recieve. She was named American Humane’s 2017 Emerging Hero Dog for her work to end dog fighting. As a former bait dog, Abigail knows first-paw just how brutal this practice is. Now, her mission of peace has inspired a new dog grooming salon set to open in Fort Myers, Florida. The business will be located at One Fort Myers, a new luxury high rise … Read more

Scared Shelter Dog Blossoms When She’s Shown Love On Her Big Day Out

Ever wish you could give every shelter dog just one day to feel as loved as they possibly can? Rocky Kanaka is living that dream. You might recognize Rocky from the CW show Save Our Shelter, where he and his crew travelled around the country giving animal shelters much needed makeovers to help boost their adoption rates and make shelter life more tolerable for pets and staff. He also shares his love of good, healthy food with dogs through his … Read more

Should Dog Grooming Facilities Be Required To Have Video Cameras?

El Paso, Texas wants to see some changes coming to grooming salons in the city. The City Council unanimously voted to implement changes to the way that dog groomers operate businesses within the city. After discovering that groomers are not required to be licensed by any federal, state, or local authority, El Paso has decided that it wants to implement certification rules for groomers in the city. They also plan to require all dog grooming businesses to keep video surveillance cameras … Read more

Comfy Chairs Give Shelter Dogs A Taste Of Home While They Await Adoption

The homeless dogs at Knox County Humane Society are enjoying the best seats at the shelter thanks to a creative idea and generous donors. The staff at this no-kill Illinois shelter have always gone above and beyond to provide for their rescued residents. They make sure every dog gets personalized attention and the best opportunities for adoption. But despite all they do, they know life in the shelter is tough. Dogs live in their kennels and spend months without knowing … Read more

RECALL ALERT: Recall Expands To Total 24 Dog Chew Products

Just over two months into 2018, and pet parents have already been inundated with a slew of product recalls. Most recently, Redbarn Pet Products has expanded a recall to total of 24 different products under 4 brand names due to concerns over Salmonella contamination.  While no illnesses have been reported, the recall encompasses bully and steer stick products marketed under the brands Redbarn, Chewy Louie, Good Lovin’ and Dentley’s Brand.   All the affected products have expiration dates ending in “BC.” … Read more

The 9 Best Ways To Spoil Your Dog When You’re On A Budget

You want to spoil your furry friend as much as possible, but sometimes money is tight and you can’t just pull out all the stops to make your dog feel special. Luckily, there are lots of ways you can spoil your dog that are relatively cheap – or even free! All it takes is a little bit of your time and maybe some creativity to make your pup feel like he’s the king of the world. Here are the 9 best … Read more

Hospice Program Helps End-Of-Life Patients Keep Their Pets

When pet lovers embark on their end-of-life journey, they often worry about what will happen to their beloved dogs and cats when they pass away or become too frail to care for them. Some patients are lucky enough to have helpful friends or family members, but others are forced to give up their furry companions at a time when they need them most. Related Post: How To Ensure Your Pets Are Cared For, Should You Pass Away That’s where the nonprofit … Read more

15 Fun Ways To Make Money As A Dog Lover

They always say that if you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life. What if what you love is dogs? Beyond the obvious options, there are actually a wide variety of ways to make money working with dogs. Some of these options are better off as side gigs, some require additional training, and one requires a law degree, but all of these are legitimate ways to make your love of dogs start paying you, maybe … Read more

Proposed Plan Will Require Dog Walkers To Be Officially Licensed

If you want to be a professional dog walker, starting your business is relativity easy. You’ll need a general understanding of dog behavior and the confidence to keep track of a pack of potentially unruly clientele, but one thing you won’t need is a special license. Realtors, contractors, cosmetologists—all these career fields require special licenses, but dog walking isn’t one of them. The path to becoming a dog walker is comparably clear, but that status is set to change for … Read more

Yet Another Brand Added To The Growing List Of Dog Food Recalled For Possible Salmonella Contamination

Dog Food Advisor has been busy the past two months reporting Salmonella concerns, and the list of recalled products just got longer. Raw Basics from Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin announced Tuesday a voluntary recall of the product labeled “Tucker’s Pork-Bison Formula” due to potential Salmonella contamination. The company joins the ranks of recently recalled Steve’s Real Food, Northwest Naturals, Raws for Paws, and Smokehouse Pet Products. No illnesses have been reported, but the Nebraska Department of Agriculture notified Raw Basics of … Read more

4 Simple Ways To Help Your Obese Senior Dog Shed Weight

As we get older we rest more, exercise less, and our bodies lose shape. It happens to the best of us – our dogs included. Your dog may look comfy in his new, softer body, but that doesn’t mean that he is, and extra weight comes with extra issues. Dogs who are overweight are more likely to suffer from cardiac disease, diabetes, arthritis and cancer – things that senior dogs are already more at risk for than younger pups. That’s … Read more

How To Be Your Dog’s Advocate When She’s Facing A Serious Illness

It’s a moment every pet parent dreads: your dog has been diagnosed with a serious illness. While your veterinarian does her best to explain the disease, treatment options and prognosis, your head spins with questions: Is my dog suffering? Can my family handle the emotional strain? How much will all this cost? Dr. Nancy Kay is a veterinarian and the author of Speaking for Spot: Be the Advocate Your Dog Needs for a Happy, Healthy, Longer Life. She says that … Read more

Talking To Your Pets Isn’t Crazy, It’s A Sign Of Social Intelligence

I admit it: I talk to my pets. I even have a different voice for each one. My non-animal friends think it’s silly and more than a little crazy to carry on these one-sided conversations. But Nicholas Epley, professor of behavioral science at the University of Chicago, disagrees. He feels it’s perfectly normal to engage in this behavior, and it may actually indicate a higher level of social cognition. Epley is the author of Mindwise: How We Understand What Others Think, … Read more