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What Does Low White Blood Cell Count Mean In Dogs?

Leukopenia is a drop in the number of circulating white blood cells (leukocytes). This makes a dog more susceptible to infections, as he has fewer white blood cells available to fight it off. Neutropenia is the most common type of leukopenia, which is a condition in which there are low numbers of neutrophils, the most abundant type of leukocyte. Leukopenia usually the result of an underlying cause, such as infection, cancer, or a genetic abnormality. Your dog’s white blood cells … Read more

Dog Trained By CIA Decides That Sniffing Bombs Just Isn’t Her Thing

Lulu is a black Lab who in the process of being trained as a CIA bomb sniffing dog. That is, until she decided that scouting out explosives just wasn’t her thing! “A few weeks into training, Lulu began to show signs that she wasn’t interested in detecting explosive odors,” reported the CIA blog. #CIAK9 Pupdate: Sometimes, even after testing, our pups make it clear being an explosive detection K9 isn’t for themhttps://t.co/nPZl6YWNKb pic.twitter.com/07TXRCH7bp — CIA (@CIA) October 18, 2017 At … Read more

This Facebook Page Is Dedicated To Dogs And The UPS Drivers Who Love Them

The relationship between dog and delivery person hasn’t always been one of tail wags and head pats, but a huge group of UPS drivers is out to change that. UPS Dogs is a Facebook page all about the thousands of friendships made between UPS drivers and neighborhood dogs. The page is liked by over 200,000 people, and every day they share photographic evidence that the best friendships are the ones you don’t always expect. https://www.facebook.com/UPSDOGS/photos/a.510105182413084.1073741829.493723690717900/1457876384302621/?type=3&theater Sean McCarren is the founder … Read more

What Does Lead Poisoning In Dogs Look Like?

Thanks to U.S. regulations regarding the control of lead, lead poisoning isn’t as common as it once was. However, old household materials like roofing materials and linoleum may still contain lead that could be toxic to you, your family and your pets. If you believe your dog has been exposed, make an appointment with your vet as soon as possible as lead poisoning is life-threatening. In plumbism (lead poisoning) lead will take the place of the body’s essential calcium and … Read more

Pet Food Ingredient Supplier Accused Of Human Trafficking & Slave Labor

Two federal class action lawsuits have been filed this month against Simmons Foods Inc. and Christian Alcoholics and Addicts in Recovery (CAAIR). Simmons is a major poultry company that provides meat to companies like KFC, Walmart, PetSmart and Rachael Ray’s Nutrish pet food. The suits allege that Simmons, along with CAAIR – a rural retreat in Oklahoma that provides addiction treatment and job training to men convicted of nonviolent crimes – have engaged in racketeering, human trafficking, and labor law violations. CAAIR is a program … Read more

5 Dog Breeds With The Most Adorable Wrinkles

Few people approve of the wrinkles they see in the mirror, but when wrinkles belong to dogs, it’s a completely different story. Instead of a sign of age, a dog’s droopy folds of skin are more like a testament to their good looks. From tiny Pug puppies to big Bloodhounds, there’s something about a wrinkly dog that makes people fall in love. Their faces are framed in perpetual cuteness, and all that extra skin makes snuggling so much sweeter. If … Read more

Senior Dog “Shuts Down” In Shelter Until A New Pal Changes Everything

Clarence, a senior Pug, was lucky to find himself at the Vintage Pet Rescue in Rhode Island. Founded by couple Kristen and Marc Peralta, they pull older pets from shelters and give them a permanent home to spent their golden years in love and safety. “Senior dogs are a perfect fit for our lifestyle,” Kristen told iHeartDogs. “They don’t need long walks or hikes and they are perfectly happy sleeping on your lap for most of the day. We think … Read more

What To Do About Fever In Dogs

Normal temperature for a dog is 101 – 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (38.3-39.2º Celsius), but anything above 103F is abnormally high and considered a fever. It can be mild, like in cases where your dog is coming down with a viral infection, but severe fevers can cause seizures or organs to shut down. It can be caused by infection, environment, or excessive exercise. Any temperature of 106ºF (41.1ºC) can be life-threatening and should be considered an emergency. Symptoms of Fever in Dogs … Read more

Remodeled Shelter Keeps Pets Happier While Waiting For Forever Homes

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.  The Humane Society of West Michigan in Grand Rapids, MI is one of the shelters that have received support from Rescue Rebuild through Greater Good. Thanks to their help, the dogs they care for are happier and healthier while waiting for their forever homes. “Playpens for dogs are essential for their health and … Read more

Volunteer Thinks Up Genius Plan To Ensure Every Shelter Pet Has A Bed

For the past three years, Scott Poore has spent four to five hours each day volunteering at shelters in the Kansas City area. He found one problem to be universal to almost every facility: they were constantly overrun with dirty laundry. Those that weren’t did not have beds for the dogs and cats at all. Then one day, while shopping at Ikea, he stumbled upon the solution. Bath mats. “I thought, ‘Man these are really affordable. They’re incredibly comfortable,’” Poore told … Read more

7 Reasons You Should Start Your Dog On A Krill Supplement

All marine oils are not created equal. While supplements derived from salmon and cod oils are rich in essential fatty acids, they lack natural antioxidants and are at risk for contamination. Krill supplements for dogs are a safer, highly renewable way to deliver the Omega-3 fatty acids your dog needs to maintain healthy skin, a shiny coat, strong joints, and a powerful immune system. Here are 7 important reasons you should be giving your dog a krill supplement. 1. Krill … Read more

Dog Swept Away During Seaside Stroll Gets Rescued By The Coastguard

What started as a relaxing Sunday stroll by the shore turned into a nightmare when one family’s beloved dog was suddenly swept away by the sea. In Cummingston, Scotland, the dog owners were on a walk with their Cockapoo when he got caught in a current, which pulled him further and further from the coast. His panicked parents called the Maritime & Coastguard Agency, who thankfully, were training that same morning and ready to spring into action.   One of their … Read more

10 Dog Breeds That Make Wonderful Companions For Seniors

Not only do senior citizens tend to have more time and attention to devote to the care of their pets; those who own a dog have been shown to have lower blood pressure, increased social interactions and healthier exercise habits. Several lifestyle factors should be considered before choosing a dog. Take into account your activity level, living situation and the amount of care you are able to provide. The following 10 breeds are excellent choices for seniors, but they certainly … Read more

Activists Pose With Rescue Pets – And The Photos Are Stunning

As much as we enjoy browsing through beautiful photos of adorable rescue pets, there’s one think we love more: when these works of art stand for a cause. About the “Paws of Gotham” 2018 calendar: “Paws of Gotham” is Louie’s Legacy‘s fourth annual calendar aimed at raising funds to rehabilitate and re-home animals from high-kill shelters across the United States. “Paws of Gotham” was shot by famed New York-based photographer Candy Kennedy. The images she captured focus on the diversity … Read more

8 Things Your Puppy Wishes You Wouldn’t Do

If you are anything like me, you melt into a puddle of useless, blubbering mush in the presence of an adorable puppy. But if you want to be a paw-renting pro, you must resist the urge to give your new addition everything her fluffy little heart desires. Puppies need lots of love, but they also need rules, consistency, socialization and plenty of boundaries to make sure they grow into well-adjusted members of canine society. While there is no perfect way … Read more

5 Signs That Your Dog Actually Loves You

We love our dogs as if they are members of our families – because to us they really are! We show our dogs we love them in so many ways outside of just their regular care and maintenance, by doing things like buying them special treats and toys. But how do our dogs tell us they love us? We have a good feeling that they do, but it would be awesome to know for sure. Sometimes it might feel like … Read more

Shelter Photographer Perfectly Captures Why We Love Pit Bulls

Adam Goldberg had always loved animals, long before he discovered his love of photography. He’s the kind of lucky guy who gets to do what he loves, combining his two passions in a way that continues to make a difference in the lives of the dogs he meets – especially Pit Bulls! You’d never guess by looking at his photos, but Adam is a self-taught photographer. He was hired to manage the Humane Society of Broward County’s website and social … Read more

8 Breeds That Need A Job To Do

All dogs were developed for a specific purpose, usually to do some form of work. Most dogs are now bred to be companions, but some breeds still retain so much working instinct that they can be destructive if they aren’t given lots of exercise and mental stimulation. With information from Wikipedia, Paw Culture, VetStreet, and Pawed In, here are 8 breeds that need a job to do in order to stay out of trouble. #1 – Weimaraner Created to be a … Read more

The 10 Best Small Dogs For Kids

Are you thinking about getting a dog for your family, but you’re worried about getting one that won’t tolerate your children? While larger dogs are less fragile and less likely to be accidentally injured, there are some small breeds that do well with children. Keeping in mind that dogs don’t come with guarantees and any dog needs training, here are 10 small dog breeds that do well with kids. #1 – Beagle The Beagle is a friendly, happy dog with … Read more

5 Tips To Minimize Dog Shedding

Does your dog shed excessively? Most dogs shed at least a little, but some breeds shed more than average. After you’ve ruled out health issues like allergies, immune disease, or parasites (like fleas), there are some steps you can take to reduce your dog’s shedding. From WikiHow, WebMD, and Drs Foster and Smith, here are some ways to limit the amount of dog hair floating around your house.   1 – Change their diet. Many cheap dog foods are made … Read more

Groomer Opens Shop At Midnight To Care For Severely Matted Stray

Dog groomer Kari Falla knows just how much suffering a severely matted dog experiences, so when she saw photos of a desperate stray on a Facebook page for lost pets, she immediately volunteered to help. A woman had discovered the dog on the side of the road and saved him from being hit by a car. Although it was midnight, Falla opened up her Oviedo, Florida shop, BGE Grooming to tend to the neglected pup. https://www.facebook.com/BGEGrooming/photos/a.410326375814305/818435495003389/?type=3&theater Rather than placing him in … Read more

The Scoop On Dogs Who Eat Poop & What You Can Do To Stop It

As much as we love our dogs, they do have a few less-than-adorable habits. But dogs that drag their butts across the carpet, roll in roadkill, and steal our underwear all pale in comparison to the dreaded poop eaters! Although it is repulsive to humans, coprophagia – the behavior of eating feces – is not only quite common, it is also considered “normal” in the canine world. Luckily, there are ways you can discourage this habit in your pup. In … Read more

What Causes Low Body Temperature In Dogs?

Your vet may refer to your dog’s unusually low body temperature as “hypothermia.” At a temperature below normal, your dog’s physiologic and metabolic systems will function much slower. He may experience an irregular heartbeat, trouble breathing, and impaired consciousness, even to the point of a coma. Because hypothermia is a progressive condition, your dog’s body will have less ability to bring itself back to normal temperatures the longer it persists. Symptoms of Low Body Temperature in Dogs Hypothermia will become … Read more

Shelter Channels Harry Potter To Sort Dogs By Personality Rather Than Breed

New adopters often find themselves bringing home the cutest or friendliest shelter pup they meet, rather than one that may be perfect for their lifestyle. In order to prevent certain pets from being overlooked due to their breed, age, size or demeanor, the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando has taken a page from the Harry Potter novels. Their “Pawgwarts” sorting system labels dogs by the toys they pick and how they behave in play groups, rather than their superficial traits.   “It … Read more

5 Signs Your Rescue Dog May Have Come From An Abusive Home

Have you ever wondered if your rescue dog was abused before they became part of your family? Maybe they jump at every small sound or cower if you raise your hand or pick up the newspaper. While it’s usually impossible to know for sure what sort of situation your dog lived in previously, there are some signs that could indicate a history of abuse. Here are 5 signs that your dog may have come from an abusive home. #1 – … Read more

The 10 Best American Cities For Dog Lovers

Around 54 million households in America have at least one dog, making dogs the most popular pet in the country. (Sorry, cat lovers – only around 43 million households in the United States have at least one cat.) While dogs are popular everywhere, certain parts of the country seem to attract more dog-lovers than other places.  Realtor.com recently came up with a list of the top 10 cities in the United States for dog lovers. They looked at data from the … Read more

4 Walt Disney World Resort Hotels To Start Accepting Dogs

Do you love Disney World but hate leaving your dog behind when you travel? Starting October 15, 4 of the hotels at the Walt Disney World Resort will start allowing dogs. Up to 2 dogs will be allowed per room, with easy access to pet walkways and green spaces for exercise and places for dogs to relieve themselves. The 4 properties, with their nightly per-room pet fee, are: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort ($50/night) This cartoon-themed resort includes story-themed rooms, … Read more

This US State Just Put A Ban On Dogs Sold From Puppy Mills

On Friday, October 13, California Governor Jerry Brown signed Assembly Bill 485 banning pet store operators from selling dogs, cats, or rabbits unless they are obtained from a shelter or rescue. The law, that some argue will put pet stores out of business, is set to go into effect January 1, 2019. Supporters hope that closing off the pet store sales outlet will discourage the irresponsible breeders who operate puppy mills. Stores that violate the legislation by selling non-rescue animals will face … Read more

Groundbreaking Decision Grants Woman Paid Leave To Care For Sick Dog

For an Italian dog mom named Anna, taking time off to care for her Old English Setter, Cucciola, was a family matter. When she found out that her bosses at Sapienza University in Rome had recorded the time she missed as vacation days, Anna was incensed. She sought the support of the animal advocacy group, Lega Anti Vivisezione (LAV) and together they made Anna’s case to her employers. In a groundbreaking decision, the University changed their stance on the issue … Read more

4 Reasons You Should Be Giving Your Dog A Krill Supplement

The benefits of fish oil for dogs are well known.  It’s known to be great for skin and joint health. Did you know that krill has even more benefits for your dog than fish oil? Let’s take a look at 4 reasons you should be giving your dog a krill supplement. You might be surprised at all the benefits your dog has been missing out on! #1 – It improves your dog’s overall health Krill has a variety of different … Read more

Man Tearfully Reunites With Therapy Dog Stolen During A Carjacking

A Cleveland man has been reunited with his beloved Havanese therapy dog, Polo, five days after his two dogs were stolen in a carjacking. Andrew Wright was inside a local gas station early Friday morning when the thief sped off in his vehicle. Polo, who alerts Wright to impending seizures, was spotted wandering loose about eight miles from the scene of the crime. Wright cradled Polo and wept openly during their reunion this Wednesday. Wright’s car is equipped with OnStar … Read more

Fluid In The Lungs In Dogs

What your vet might call pulmonary edema is just another term for fluid in your dog’s lungs. Fluid may accumulate over time in the air sacs (alveoli) of your dog’s lungs, making it seem as though he only has a breathing problem when he exerts himself. Or it may accumulate quickly, causing acute respiratory distress. If the air sacs are filled with fluid instead of air, they will not be able to function properly and his breathing will be less … Read more

Woman Flees Wildfire On Bike While Hauling Her 70 lb Dog In A Duffel Bag

For one dedicated dog mom, fleeing the California wildfires without her trusty Pit Bull was never an option. As she drove home from an all-night study session around 2 am, college student Natasha Wallace saw the flames from the freeway and knew that her home would be right in their path. She knew that she had to evacuate – but not before getting her beloved dog, Bentley.   The two got in the car and headed on their way, but it wasn’t … Read more

Do Dogs Fall In Love With Other Dogs?

Pongo and Perdita, Lady and Tramp—these fictional dog couples are like the Cory and Topanga of the canine universe. Their puppy love makes for great animation, but are their love stories actually possible? Dogs seem to show affection toward both humans and other dogs, but are the canine relationships we think we see merely our human perception of their animal instincts? We can’t read our dogs’ minds or ask them to explain their feelings, but researchers think they can answer … Read more

What Are Skin Ulcers In Dogs?

There are many things that might cause a skin ulcer, from everyday annoyances like bug bites, or even cancer. Skin ulcers themselves aren’t serious, but the cause for them may be, so you’ll want to have your dog examined by a vet as soon as possible to find out what it may be. A skin ulcer is an open sore that oozes pus, and could be a sign of injury, infection or disease. Treatment will vary depending on the underlying … Read more

Adorable Postal Worker Gives Every Letter a Stamp, Lick of Approval

Jax, an adorable black dog with a narrow white stripe on his chest, is a big fish in a little pond. Living in the small village of Portree, which is located on the Scottish Island of Skye, Jax is know for his important job in a hole-in-the-wall post office that’s managed by his human, Ray Chandler. A post shared by Allyn Lyttle (@allynlyttle) on Dec 23, 2015 at 5:03am PST You see, the happy-go-lucky dog has a very specific role: he’s the post … Read more

Dog Rescued From Meat Farm Loves Being Part Of Her New Forever Family

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.  “Darling was one of the first DMT (dog meat trade) dogs that we brought from Thailand into The Barking Lot. She had been in the Buriram shelter (holding shelter for DMT dogs before being chosen to move into a rescue group) for years, awaiting her turn to make it into a forever home. … Read more

6 Friendly Reminders Everyone Should Follow At The Dog Park

Dog parks are a great way to let your pup burn off some energy and play with others. For many dogs, especially those who live in the city, it’s the only chance they have to truly run. For highly social dogs, the opportunity to be around other dogs is crucial for their happiness. However, it’s not a good idea to just show up at the dog park unprepared and spend the entire time on your phone. While each park has … Read more

What Are Hot Spots In Dogs?

You may have noticed your dog scratching and licking at an ugly, red oozing spot on his skin. A hot spot. Hot spots are a type of skin infection caused by bacteria. The spots will be red, moist, and irritated that started with your dog’s picking at it, and made worse by bacteria. The patch can get bigger in just a few hours and will be very painful for your pet. You’re likely to find them on your dog’s head, … Read more

Puppy Mill Survivor Who Nearly Died Is Thriving & Taking A Stand Against Animal Abuse

When a Boston Terrier puppy was rescued from an Amish puppy mill in July 2016, there was little hope he’d survive. At only a few weeks old, the pup had a severe case of mange, and maggots were living in his festering wounds. His muscles were shrunken and useless, and he had deep corneal ulcers that blocked his vision. The general consensus was that the dog wouldn’t make it, but Janine Guido had different plans. As founder of Speranza Animal … Read more

Abuser Who Taped Caitlyn The Dog’s Mouth Shut Is Denied Parole

Caitlyn the dog has put her 2015 near-death ordeal behind her. She spends her days barking out against animal cruelty and accepting praise from her many fans. When the local celebri-dog isn’t appearing as the unofficial mascot of the Charleston Animal Society, she enjoys a rich home life where she is showered with love, treats and toys. Caitlyn may have put her past behind her, but her abuser will not have the same luxury. William Dodson appeared in front of … Read more

Left For Dead At A Shelter, Dog With A 6-Pound Tumor Gets A Second Chance

Rescuers named him Clyde. No one knows what the one-year-old pooch was called before he arrived at Gallatin County Animal Shelter (GCAS) in Sparta, Kentucky. In his previous life, the “sweet pup with a heart of gold” suffered unspeakable neglect as a massive 6.4-pound tumor grew from his chest, eventually dragging between his front legs, and rupturing from the weight. **WARNING: Images may be disturbing to some readers. Shari Wyenandt with HART Animal Rescue says Clyde’s previous owner left no imformation … Read more

What is Chronic Leukemia In Dogs?

Chronic leukemia is cancer of the blood, and occurs when an abundance of white blood cells are produced quickly. It usually affects middle aged and older dogs. You may not notice it right away, as it usually begins without any visible symptoms and progresses slowly. Although it isn’t curable, it can be maintained through observation and chemotherapy, allowing your dog to live a happy life perhaps years after being diagnosed. Symptoms of Chronic Leukemia in Dogs Since chronic leukemia develops … Read more

Dog Finds And Protects Her 2-Year-Old Human Until Help Arrives

Bella Grace, an English Springer Spaniel, stuck by her 2-year-old human’s side as he wandered away from his family on Monday night and helped searchers locate the missing boy. The little boy was playing with his 3 older cousins outside the family’s home near Richmond, Minnesota when he wandered off around 6:15 pm. When the family couldn’t find the boy, Bella Grace, or Bella Grace’s 12-week-old puppy after 30 minutes of searching, they called the police. In addition to sheriff’s … Read more

What is Toxoplamosis in Dogs?

Toxoplasmosis is an aggressive disease that can affect both humans and animals, and is caused by a parasitic single celled organism (protozoa). It is dangerous, highly contagious, and can be found all over the world. The protozoa that causes toxoplamosis, Toxoplama gondii, can affect both dogs and humans, and is spread through the feces of infected cats, or by eating undercooked, infected meats. Once they’re consumed, the protozoa invade the lining of the stomach and lower intestine, then spread quickly … Read more

Former Bait Dog Does Something Special For Kids Affected By Hurricane Irma

Abigail the rescue dog is absolutely unstoppable. First, she survived life as a bait dog and losing an ear, then made the best of it by wearing adorable headbands over the wounds. Then, her inspirational story helped her win a hero dog award. Now, she and her sister Tala are therapy dogs, and together, they brightened the day of children who were affected by Hurricane Irma. (We’d also like to give a shout out to their amazing rescuers and family, … Read more

What Does Disorientation Look Like In Dogs?

Your dog’s vestibular system is what’s responsible for maintaining and stabilizing the position of his head, and stabilizing his body and eyes during head movements. Vestibular Disease will interfere with this system, causing disorientation, head tilt, and loss of balance. It’s important to take your dog to the vet to correctly diagnose, since other conditions like a stroke or hyperthyroidism can look similar. Depending on the cause, your dog may experience disorientation only once or twice, or it may develop … Read more

Why The Name You Choose For Your Dog Is More Than Just A Label

A dog’s name may be the most important word they ever learn. Many trainers recommend saying your pup’s name before giving a command like “Sit” or “Stay” in order to get their attention and make sure they know that what you say next will be directed at them. But did you know that there is actually a science to giving your dog the most effective name? Experts have found that certain combinations of sounds are easier for dogs to recognize … Read more

What is Pyrethrin and Pyrethroid Toxicity In Dogs?

It’s important to use your dog’s flea and tick medication according to your vet’s directions, but do you know why? Flea and tick control products contain insecticides that can be toxic if not used according to the label. They are meant for external use only, and can be dangerous if they’re swallowed or applied in larger doses than they’re meant to be. Remember, it’s a poison meant to kill the tiny bugs that want to make their homes on your … Read more

Blind Man’s Seeing Eye Dog Gets Attacked By A Fake Service Dog

Michael Kelly is blind, and relies on his certified seeing-eye dog, Kie, to help him get around. While riding the Sacramento Light Rail earlier this month, Kie was attacked by another dog riding the train.  The other dog locked it’s mouth onto Kie’s snout, and according to Michael, “[Kie] started screaming.” The dogs were separated and police were called. To add insult to injury, the other owner told police his dog was a service dog as well. Because of the … Read more

Vets Advise Pet Owners To Wash Hands To Prevent Spread Of Puppy Disease

If you haven’t heard, there have been a few dozen cases of humans contracting a disease that is spread through puppies. Campylobacter, which leads to stomach upset and a potential fever, has affected at least 55 people, whose cases are being studied by the Center for Disease Control. “It’s called campylobacter, and it causes diarrhea and vomiting if you get infected with it, and it can cause a bad fever, and some people — a few people — end up … Read more