Page 593 – iHeartDogs.com

Shelter Dog Meal Donation Count:

Learn 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

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 Is Thriving and Inspiring Others With Her Comeback

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

Parole Denied in Widely Followed Case Involving Caitlyn the Dog

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 in Desperate Condition 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

Rescue 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

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

Children’s Hospital Therapy Dog Retires After An Incredible 11 Years Of Service

Abe has been changing human lives for the better ever since he was a clumsy, fluffy puppy. His owner, Judith Bonifaci, was mourning the loss of her beloved Golden Retriever when a friend suggested she fill the dog-shaped hole in her heart with another furry friend. Bonifaci vowed that her next pup would have a purpose, and that together they would pay forward all the love and joy her previous dog had brought into her life. “I knew that if I … Read more

These Deeply Bonded Best Buddies Need A Hero To Adopt Them Both

Jefe and Jericho may look different on the outside, but in their hearts they are two peas in a pod – brothers from another mother, if you will. Jefe is a 2-year-old Chihuahua with long legs and a snuggly, outgoing personality. Jericho is a strikingly handsome 3-year-old German Shepherd with soulful brown eyes. Fate brought them together, and the neglect they suffered bonded them for life. Now that they have been rescued by the wonderful folks at the Arizona Humane … Read more

Bay Waters Are Being Contaminated By Excess Dog Poop Following Hurricane Irma

Following Hurricane Irma, the waters of Tampa Bay have begun to contain high amounts of feces. According to environmental scientist Andy Lykens in a story by ABC Action News, natural disasters cause waters to rise onto the shore, washing over everything on it. That includes… “Dog poop,” Lykens says in the story. “That’s a really big problem. That introduces nitrogen into the water and fecal matter into the water. That’s a reason why beaches get shut down.” He adds, “When you get … Read more

6 Amazing Ways Dogs Can Help Those Suffering From Depression

Are you currently stuck in the mental black hole that is depression? Do you worry that your life is never going to get better and that you will never feel normal again? Maybe the words “happy” and “fun” have lost all meaning in your life. Perhaps your life has become a charade of pretending to the world that you’re okay when you actually feel empty inside. The good news is that it is possible to feel normal again. The better … Read more

20 Silly Laws About Dogs

The world has changed a lot in the last hundred years. Usually, laws are updated to reflect current living conditions, but sometimes nobody notices silly laws that don’t make a lot of sense in today’s world. Of course, some places like to make mountains out of molehills, so some of these laws may be more recent. We found these on the internet and not a law library, so it’s hard to say how current or misunderstood these laws may be. … Read more

After A Tricky Rescue, This Formerly Feral Dog Becomes A Beloved Family Member

No Kill Kern is a rescue in the Bakersfield, CA area, and the name says it all – they’re a no-kill facility. Because of their no-kill reputation, they’re relied upon by locals to do everything they can to help dogs in need, and frequently receive calls about strays. With one of those calls began the story of Queen, who had a long road to travel before she found home. It can be difficult for a human rescuer to earn the … Read more

Photographer Captures Pug Personalities In “Pugs And Kisses” Series

Photographer Casey Christopher has done so much work for shelter pets, you may already be familiar with her name. She has a soft spot for “unadoptable” pets, ones that are looked over and passed by again and again by adopters for reasons like age, disability, or breed. Her work has been featured on iHeartCats (twice!), but this time, Casey’s focus was on Pugs in her newest project, “Pugs And Kisses”! Casey will often reach out to rescues and offer to photograph … Read more

10 Things People With Service Dogs Want You To Know

Most people have only the vaguest idea of the powerful connection between a service dog and its handler. They don’t realize how distracting and potentially dangerous it can be to interfere with that relationship. As dog lovers, it is difficult to resist the urge to run up and pet every furry cutie we encounter, but when it comes to service dogs, they are more than just pets, they are their handlers’ lifelines. https://www.instagram.com/p/B036rRlgxDS/ People with service dogs wish every member … Read more

Dogs Anxiously Awaited Their Human Brother’s Arrival, And Just Look At Them Now

Sometimes we choose our dogs. Sometimes, our dogs choose us. Other times, though, families like this happen, and you know it could only be fate that brought you together! Brego and Nami were already a family when their mom began to get a little bigger around the middle. Whether they knew it or not, these sweet Weimaraners were about to get a new addition to their little family! A post shared by Brego, Nami & our little Jedi (@frametheweim) on … Read more

7 Reasons Dogs Behave Aggressively Toward Other Dogs

Inter-dog aggression is normal and acceptable among wild dogs. It serves many important purposes from establishing pack heirarchy, to defending offspring and self preservation. To your dog, displaying aggressive body language, growling, snarling, and even snapping at another pup makes perfect social sense in certain situations.   In most cases, two dogs can work out their differences without escalating to a fight, but if your dog’s aggressive reactions are frequent, extreme, and irrational, it is time to consult a trainer … Read more

Dog Hopes Someone Can See Her Beauty And Give Her The Happily Ever After She Deserves

Some of us have hearts that break hardest for dogs who are different, but not everyone looking for a dog feels that way. But time and again they’re passed over for the more “adoptable” dogs at shelters even though they’re the ones who need a kind heart to open to them the most. Dogs like Sid. According to The Dodo, Sid was a stray who was taken to Fort Worth Animal Care and Control with a young pup and a … Read more

Certain Seasons Are Tougher On Your Dog’s Joints – Here’s What To Do

As the seasons transition from summer to fall, you may notice a substantial dip in temperature, depending on where you live. You may be saddened to know that the mild weather is coming to an end, or perhaps you’re relieved by the cool breezes that autumn brings. But as you prepare for the change in scenery, you should also think about how it impacts the health of your dog. Your pup may love frolicking in the leaves, or prancing through … Read more

Man Drives 2,800 Miles to Adopt Disabled Breeding Operation Survivor

Before Jim Havlinek saw Nubz on Facebook, he was a perfectly content dog-dad of two. But there was something about the rescue pup, who lost his rear paws in a Missouri puppy mill, that he simply could not get out of his mind. A video of Nubz bravely conquering his physical therapy inspired him to fill out an adoption application. Havlinek was approved, so he hopped in his RV and made the 2,800 mile voyage from Oregon to Pennsylvania to … Read more

Ryan Gosling Remembers His Late Rescue Pup In The Sweetest Way

Having fame and fortune – or anything else – does not take away the sorrow after the loss of a furry friend. So when actor Ryan Gosling was a guest on The Ellen Show, he reminisced, with a bit of sadness, about his late, beloved dog, George. Ellen, who’s also an animal lover, pointed out how Gosling wore a T-shirt as a tribute to the pup when he hosted the season premier of Saturday Night Live.   George, who passed away … Read more

Are Dog Dental Treats A Rip Off Or Serious Science?

While your pup is no fan of his toothbrush, he’s not immune to the negative health effects of plaque and tartar. Brushing your dog’s teeth on a daily basis is the gold standard when it comes to canine healthcare, but in reality, veterinarians know that doesn’t always happen. Convincing a rowdy puppy or anxious senior dog to sit still while you prod their mouth with bristles is a lot to ask, and pet owners are always looking for a better … Read more

Coroner’s Report Examines Pit Bull Incident and Whether Breed Played a Role

Last year, a horrific and fatal dog attack made international headlines and led to controversial breed-specific legislation in Quebec, Montreal, and several other Canadian municipalities. Media reports identified the offending dog as a Pit Bull, but DNA results showed it was actually 87.5% American Staffordshire Terrier. This week, the Quebec coroner’s office released its report on the attack, concluding that the dog’s poor treatment and lack of socialization – not its breed – likely accounted for its aggressive behavior. Christine … Read more

Rescue Turns Blind Former Stray Into Healthy, Happy Dog

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.  Even Chance Pit Bull Rescue in St. Louis is just one of the many shelters that benefit from food donations through iHeartDogs and Rescue Bank. Good nutrition is important, especially for shelter dogs like Orion:   “We don’t know Orion’s backstory, except that someone found his as a stray, and that he desperately … Read more

5 Surprising Ways Your Dog Can Read Your Mind

While your dog has probably mastered “sit” and “stay,” his best trick is something he didn’t need to be taught. Dog owners are the first to say they share a special bond with their pets, and part of that relationship is due to a dog’s ability to pick up on emotional cues. They’re capable of empathy, and when combined with their incredible sense of smell and natural intuition, it can sometimes feel like they’re reading your mind. Here are a … Read more