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Texas Dog Rescuers Ride Out The Storm With Their 14 Dogs

Lisa First and her husband live in Galveston County, Texas. When word came that Hurricane Harvey was going to cause massive devastation to their area, many of their friends and neighbors evacuated. But for the Firsts, that was not an option. The couple are animal rescuers and foster pawrents with an ever-rotating cast of pups in their home. At the time of Harvey’s arrival, they were caring for an impressive brood of 14 rescue dogs! “They are all Houston street … Read more

5 Ways You And Your Dog May Be Harming Wildlife

You love the great outdoors, and you especially love bringing your dog into the wilderness with you. Certainly, you would never do anything to hurt the wildlife – that could ruin the area for future generations. The problem is, you and your dog may be damaging the wilderness you love without even realizing it. While dogs are permitted inside many state parks, national parks, and national forests, they are usually required to be on a leash that is no longer … Read more

Taiwan Coffee Shop Creates Incredibly Realistic Latte Pup Portraits

Latte art is all the rage in coffee shops around the world, but you’ve never seen anything like the extraordinary portraits-in-foam created by the baristas at My Cofi café in Taiwan. Many shops have invested in gadgets that allow them to turn your photos into intricate latte images, but the artists at My Cofi don’t need a machine to design their masterpieces. All of their three-dimensional portraits are created entirely by hand!   Local patrons of My Cofi describe it … Read more

10 Things We Do That Our Dogs Just Don’t Understand

Our dogs are intelligent, soulful, emotional, and deeply entwined in every aspect of our lives. With all that in mind, it can be easy to forget that dogs are not just furry humans! They have their own canine customs and codes of conduct. Despite our best intentions, we often exhibit behaviors that can be confusing, stressful or downright threatening to our pups. In order to maintain a healthy, respectful relationship with your dog, do your best to avoid these 10 … Read more

Don’t Wait for Canine Arthritis To Start, Do These 5 Things Today

Arthritis in dogs is a serious concern. The disease is painful for your pooch and, although not life-threatening on its own, can lead to one serious medical issue that will take years off your pup’s life – obesity. Many people wait until it’s too late to do anything about it. There are a few things you can do to help your dog’s body protect itself against canine osteoarthritis, the form of arthritis that occurs as a result of age, injury … Read more

10 Fun Facts About Your Dog’s Tail

Short, long, puffy, curly, they’re all different, but all dogs have ’em! We know dogs wag their tails when they’re happy, but did you know that their tails can convey other messages? Or that communication isn’t a tail’s only use? Get ready to be intrigued, because chances are, you’ve never thought about your pup’s wagger like this before! Here are 10 fun facts about dog tails–as it turns out, they’re more than just a cute accessory! 1. Tail wagging is a social … Read more

Food Donations Allow Shelter Staff To Focus On The Emotional Needs Of Dogs

Like so many dogs before her, Faith found herself abandoned at her local Oklahoma shelter for a heartbreaking reason – her family simply did not want her anymore. Faith sank into a deep depression, trembling with fear and refusing to eat well. When someone walked past her kennel she would cower and peer up at them with sadness and confusion in her eyes. She was in danger of slipping through the cracks when a kind volunteer took notice. A young … Read more

Police Warn Chicago Residents To Stay Away From ‘Zombie Dogs’

Residents of a Chicago suburb were alarmed to hear reports of “zombie dogs” roaming the streets, but it isn’t what you think. After numerous calls about seriously neglected stray dogs, the Hanover Park Police Department announced on Facebook last week that the “dogs” people are seeing are actually coyotes. https://www.facebook.com/HanoverParkPoliceDepartment/photos/pcb.1381501561971270/1381486111972815/?type=3&theater Normally nocturnal animals that roam the areas around Chicago at night, the sick-looking coyotes are suffering from sarcoptic mange. The disease is extremely contagious and caused by tiny mites that … Read more

If You See A Dog With A Scarf Wrapped Around Them, There’s A Good Reason For It

Anxiety associated with separation from loved ones, storms, car rides, etc. plagues many of our furry friends. Solutions like desensitization therapy, soothing pheromones, and prescription drugs can help provide relief, but there is another technique that is catching on with pet parents. Not only is it simple and safe, it is also highly effective and totally free! The calming technique is known as the “half wrap” and all you need to pull it off is a scarf or an Ace … Read more

Homeless Man At Houston Shelter Grooms Rescued Harvey Pets To Make Them Pretty Again

This heartwarming story proves that no matter who you are or where you are in life, you can help make a difference. A shining example has been set by Stanley Baizle, a hurricane evacuee took refuge in a shelter that allowed pets. Meanwhile, Sasha Von Troetsch, a self-employed groomer and founder of  Your Hipster Pets, brought a group of volunteers to the shelter to lend her expertise to the animals in need of some TLC.   “While we were there, … Read more

The Top 3 Ways To Keep Your Dog’s Teeth Clean

Dental health is critical to your dog’s overall wellness and should never be overlooked. However, if there is anywhere responsible dog owners typically find themselves lacking, it is the dental health department. This is most likely due to the fact that the dangers of neglecting our pup’s dental hygiene have been scarcely publicized until relatively recently. Therefore a lot of people are simply unaware of the risks involved in not keep up with brushing and cleanings. However, there are many … Read more

10 Least Obedient Dog Breeds

If you are looking for a training challenge, then one of these breeds may be for you; these intelligent dogs will definitely make you work for the results you seek. However, if successful, you will receive full bragging rights. #1 – Afghan hound The Afghan is known for being aloof and independent, traits that can make training a challenge. It makes sense, however, since he was originally used to chase prey independently over very long distances. He would lose the prey if he … Read more

6 Things Every Senior Dog Owner Should Do

The hardest part about having a furry friend is watching them grow old so much more quickly than the humans in our lives. Just as people tend to need more help as they get older, so do our pets. Luckily, there are many things you can do to help increase the length and quality of your dog’s life. Senior dogs do require a little bit of extra care, but the love they show us is worth it. What is the … Read more

5 Things To Know About Your Herding Breed Dog

Border Collies, Corgis, German Shepherds, and Australian Cattle Dogs are a few of the most popular breeds that make up the AKC’s Herding Group. Whether you have a purebred pup or suspect your rescue dog has some herding breed ancestry, knowing more about the group will help you raise your dog. Herding dogs are renowned for their ability to move herds of animals more than twice their size, but it’s their loving nature and loyalty that makes them popular family … Read more

K-9 Gets A Hero’s Goodbye On His Last Day

It’s a day that every pet parent dreads: saying goodbye to their beloved companions. And for K9 handlers, they’re not just bidding farewell to their best friends, they’re also losing their partners, and often, their life savers. Officer Michael D’Aresta of the Middletown Police Department in Connecticut escorted his loyal best friend to the vet one last time while he received salutes on all sides. After recently falling ill, Hunter was diagnosed with aggressive liver cancer. Not wanting to see … Read more

My Dog Won’t Sleep Without Scratching Her Bed First, Is That Normal?

While you’re brushing your teeth and fluffing the pillows before bed, your dog has her own bedtime routine. If you’ve ever caught her scratching and pawing at her bed before circling her spot and laying down, your first thought is probably, “Aww, how cute!” But when it happens every time your pup goes to sleep, you may start worrying about her well-being. Is it a symptom of stress? Is it related to a mental issue? Does your dog need help? … Read more

The 10 Dog Breeds That Shed The Most

Dogs shed. It’s just a fact of life that we’ve become accustomed to. But some dogs shed a lot, way more than others. When potential owners are looking for their next companion, this shedding is often a concern. Whether it’s just too high maintenance or you’ve got some minor allergies, finding out which dog breeds shed the most is an important part of your research for your next pet. Listed below we’ve got 10 dog breeds that shed the most! … Read more

New Antibody Therapy Shows Promising Results For Dogs With Cancer

Researchers at Japan’s Hokkaido University have developed an antibody that induces immune responses and therefore tumor regression in dogs with certain cancers. The advancement is an important new treatment option for dogs with malignant cancers that cannot be treated with existing therapies such as surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The antibody has shown promising results in dogs with oral malignant melanoma (OMM) – a highly invasive cancer that affects the mouth and jaw – and undifferentiated sarcoma. According to Science Daily: “In … Read more

5 Tips For Training Your High-Energy Dog

If you regularly spend hours playing fetch and go on two walks a day, but your pup is still running circles around you, you know what it’s like to raise a high-energy dog. These seemingly tireless canines are a joy to be around, but you’d be lying if you said training that wriggly mass of fur was easy. Energetic dogs are loved for their big personalities and happy temperaments, but shelters are full of former pets that were deemed “too … Read more

Chance The Movie Gives A Voice To Fighting Dogs

The life of a fighting dog is no life at all. Dogs all over the world are bred by unscrupulous breeders in dirty backyards. Female dogs are bred over and over to produce as many pups as possible, and once she’s had all the litters she can, she is abandoned, dumped, or worse. The pups have their ears cropped and tails docked – many people argue that pups barely feel it, but have no proof that they aren’t in pain. … Read more

9 Things Our Dogs Need From Us The Most

Our dogs are our family, and we always want to make sure that they have everything they need. Fundamental things like food, water, and shelter are a given, but what else is necessary to make our dogs’ lives the best they can be? Below are 9 things that our dogs need from us the most. Luckily, they bring so much to our lives, we enjoy keeping them happy and healthy! 1. Undivided Attention (at least some of the time) Our lives are … Read more

Teeny Tiny Dogs Seize The Day At The Second Annual Fest of Chihuahuas

Do you dream in dogs? When you close your eyes do you see a wide open field with dogs as far as the eye can see? The dream was a reality during the second annual Fest of Chihuahuas held outside London! Hundreds of Chihuahuas and their owners were invited to participate in the event, celebrating the teeny breed! Festival-goers enjoyed rubbing shoulders with celebrity dogs, fun and games, shopping, and “Chi-Idol”, a talent show for Chihuahuas! The entire event was … Read more

The 7 Real Reasons Why Your Dog Keeps Licking

Some dogs just can’t seem to hold their “licker”! Whether they are licking you, your furniture, the floors, themselves, or just flapping their tongues, there is usually a medical or behavioral explanation. Read on to find out why your pooch is licking and what you should do to remedy it. 1. Affection When your dog showers you with joyful licks after a long day apart, it really does mean he’s happy to see you! Affectionate licking starts at birth. Mother … Read more

Taking Your Dog On Walks May Have More Health Benefits Than You Realized

Daily walks with your pooch can provide many wonderful health benefits. According to a research paper published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, these benefits extend beyond physical and social advantages. In fact, the study found that dog owners are motivated to walk their pups because it simply makes them happy! Researchers analyzed “interviews and personal written reflections” from 26 people describing why they walk their dogs. As expected, many owners listed their pups’ wellbeing, but the researchers … Read more

Dog Trapped In Neighbor’s Garage Devours $150 In Homemade Treats

A mischievous pooch from Christchurch, New Zealand has been reunited with his concerned human after he disappeared early Thursday morning. The American Staffordshire Terrier named Biggie was trapped in a neighbor’s garage for approximately nine hours. Before you feel too sorry for Biggie, it turns out he wasn’t entirely alone during his “ordeal” – he had a massive stash of homemade dog treats to keep him company! The hungry pup must have followed his nose into the neighbor’s garage as … Read more

8 Dog Breeds That Are For Experienced Owners Only

When it comes to choosing the right dog breed there are many different things to think about. Are you an individual, or do you have a spouse and children? Are you active? Sedentary? Have you had dogs before and if so, what kind of personality did they have? We need to consider more than just the dogs we think are the prettiest or most impressive looking. Sure, there’s nothing wrong with liking the looks of certain breeds. But before we … Read more

Court Orders Nuisance Dogs To Be Surgically “Debarked”

An Oregon court has ruled that a couple must surgically “debark” all dogs on their sheep farm within the next 60 days. The ruling comes after neighbors endured more than a decade of nuisance barking from the collection of Tibetan and Pyrenean Mastiffs. The Oregon Court of Appeals upheld the decision this week, stating that the dogs’ owners have not done enough to quiet their pets. The owners of the dogs claim that the barking serves an important purpose – protecting the … Read more

Boy Posts “Help For Hire” Flyers To Raise Money For His Sick Dog

When 11-year-old Lucas Fuller found out his dog Bear was suffering from a potentially deadly infection he decided to take action. His family was potentially facing thousands of dollars in veterinary bills and Lucas was determined to help raise the necessary funds. His mother, Karen Fuller, helped Lucas create flyers offering his lawn mowing, trimming and car washing services. But they were not prepared for the massive viral response Lucas’ simple gesture would generate!   It all started when Bear … Read more

Shelter Dog Instinctively Knows She Has Found Her Person

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.  Army Sergeant, Michael, served our country for seven years. He was deployed to Germany and served a tour in Iraq. While serving in Iraq, an explosion to a nearby vehicle left Michael with invisible scars. He suffers from chronic migraines, PTSD, anxiety and depression. Michael lives with his wife and three children. He … Read more

Former “Unadoptable” Shelter Dog Joins Search & Rescue Efforts In Texas

Rocket began his life as a stray puppy wandering the streets of Sacramento, California. Sadly, shelter officials deemed him unadoptable due to his boisterous nature. Just one day before his scheduled euthanasia, he was saved by a group that trains dogs for search and rescue missions. This week, the former death row dog deployed to Texas with his handler, Windsor Fire Protection District firefighter, Mike Stornetta to assist in the rescue efforts. Rocket and Stornetta’s mission to Hurricane Harvey’s hardest-hit areas … Read more

Beautiful Reunion For Man And His Dog Who Were Hit By A Drunk Driver

Chance Patterson had just picked up his dogs from Vail Doggie Day Spa & Lodging in Vail, Colorado after working a double shift at Larkburger when he was struck head-on by a drunk driver. Carlitos, a German Shepherd, was killed instantly. Izzy, a Pit Bull, ran away from the accident site in terror and confusion. Patterson was severely injured and was in the hospital for about a week. Meanwhile, Izzy was missing for 5 days. Every day, people tried to find and … Read more

6 Crucial Things To Do If Your Dog Runs Away

It’s every dog owner’s worst nightmare—your pup slips his leash and starts sprinting after the neighbor’s cat. Or maybe you go outside to find that someone forgot to close the gate, and your dog is nowhere to be found. No matter how it happened, losing a dog is always devastating. You’ll be filled with panic, heartbreak, and the instinctive urge to do something—even if you don’t know what that something is. Your chances of bringing your dog home safely will … Read more

2 Shelters Come Up With Ingenious Idea To Work Together & Save Lives 

Richmond Animal Care and Control (RACC) is an urban animal shelter in Richmond, VA that is always full of Pit Bulls. Meanwhile, the rural New Kent Sheriff’s Department Animal Protection Unit is always full of Hound dogs. One day, Christie Chipps Peters, who is the director at RACC, was talking to Melissa Henry of New Kent Sheriff’s Department Animal Protection Unit when they decided to try something new that they hoped would help save more dogs’ lives. Chipps Peters told WTVR: “We were texting … Read more

Mourning Family Warns Other Dog Owners After A Day At The Lake Turns Deadly

A heartbroken California family is mourning the loss of their dog after a fun-filled day at the lake turned tragic. Jen Walsh, her husband, and their 8-year-old daughter spent the day at a nearby lake celebrating a family member’s birthday. Their 2-year-old Schnauzer, Hanz had a blast fetching sticks and balls tossed into the water for more than an hour and a half before Walsh noticed something was wrong.   Hanz became very still in the water and started trembling … Read more

5 Things All Dog Owners Should Know About Grain-Free Diets

The debate as to whether grain-free diets are best for our pets remains unsettled. While some dog owners swear their pup became healthier and happier after omitting grains, others claim that it’s a necessary part of their companion’s diet. Some even consider the entire thing a fad. So what’s a pet parent to do? In short, there is no right or wrong answer; what matters is that the dietary needs of each individual dog are met. Unless your pup has … Read more

5 Ways To Help Dogs Affected By Hurricane Harvey Even If You Don’t Live In Texas

While it’s been days since Hurricane Harvey first made landfall in Texas, the people and animals that call the state home are still battling the devastating effects. Streets and homes are flooded, and areas previously thought to be safe are being evacuated. As people flee their homes, there are countless animals in need of help. There are pets being separated from their owners and strays with nowhere to go. Even if you don’t live in Texas, there are ways you … Read more

5 Signs Your Dog Is Bored And How To Overcome It

Dogs may not be able to use words to get their point across, but they’re always communicating. If you know a little about their body language and behaviors, you’ll realize that your pup’s message is loud and clear! When our companions are bored, they tend to drop some not-so-subtle hints, although it can manifest itself in many ways. Remember that no matter what behavior your dog is exhibiting, some extra physical and mental stimulation should help cure the spell. But … Read more

Houston’s Mattress Mack Opens Doors To Evacuee Pets As Other Shelters Turn Them Away

Hurricane Harvey has battered the Texas coast for several days, making it’s first landfall as a Category 4 hurricane, it weakened to a tropical storm, but still continues to unleash high winds and gallons of rain on the Gulf area. However, the Gulf Coast is no stranger to hurricanes, and though many people have lost their cars and homes, most residents take it fairly well, considering that the situation is officially a disaster. A spirit of community comes over the … Read more

The 10 Best Toys For Young Adult Dogs

When dogs reach one year of age they officially leave puppyhood behind them, but that doesn’t mean they lose their love of play. In fact, young adult dogs are more primed for action than ever! They have a full set of powerful adult teeth; their awkward “teenage” limbs are fully developed and ready to run; and their eager young minds are always in search of fun and adventure! These 10 toys are perfectly designed to keep adult doggos happy, healthy … Read more

500 Montreal Pit Bull Owners Given 4 Weeks To “Dispose Of” Their Dogs

Approximately 500 Montreal “Pit Bull-type” dog owners have received letters informing them that they have four weeks to “dispose of” their pets. According to the letter, the recipients failed to provide the required documentation on their dogs prior to the March 31 deadline, or the documentation they provided was incomplete. Since the deadline has passed, these owners are not being given the chance to remedy the documentation problem. They must now find new homes for their dogs in towns without … Read more

This Quiz Tells You Exactly What Type Of Shelter Dog You Should Adopt (And Matches You)

Here at iHeartDogs, we think there’s a dog out there for anyone who wants a companion. Maybe you’re a homebody who loves to hunker down. Maybe you’re more of an outdoor type who’s in search of an exercise buddy. Perhaps you’re somewhere in between. Whether you’re looking for a pooch that’s large, small, fluffy, short-haired, active, lazy, whatever, there’s a dog in a shelter who’d be perfect for you – you just have to find him or her. Sometimes, pinpointing a … Read more

People Band Together To Save Animals During Catastrophic Hurricane Harvey

In August of 2017 the Gulf Coast was pummeled by Hurricane Harvey, and the storm left catastrophic damage to homes and families. As humans struggled to find higher ground, many pets were being left behind. While a few shelters allow animals during a disaster, some force owners to keep them outside, and others don’t permit them at all. Even as the rain fell and the streets flooded, advocates and pet lovers did what they could to rescue our helpless furry … Read more

Woman Risks Her Own Safety To Save 21 Dogs From Deadly Flooding

Betty Walter works with several different rescue groups and has 4 dogs of her own. When Hurricane Harvey hit Houston, she had her 4 dogs, plus she was caring for 11 dogs from the rescue groups. She was also pet sitting a dog for a friend. And as Harvey grew stronger, the number of dogs kept growing. She told us: “One small dog came to my window earlier Saturday morning. Two are homeless peoples’ dogs that live around there. They … Read more

How To Conquer Car Sickness When Transporting Your Pup

An estimated one in six dogs suffer from car sickness during travel, but driving with your dog is necessary for maintaining their health and enjoying new adventures together. After all, vet visits are a must and outings to the beach just aren’t the same without the family pup. So how do you help your dog manage this unpleasant problem? The nausea, drooling, shaking and anxiety seen during car travel may be caused by the balance mechanism within the ear or … Read more

7 Heartfelt Photos Of People Banding Together To Save Animals During Hurricane Harvey

If you’ve turned on the news or logged onto social media, you’ve seen images of the disaster that is currently sweeping southeast Texas. Houston is being pummeled by Hurricane Harvey, and the storm isn’t over yet. As families struggle to find higher ground, the devastating reality is that many pets are getting left behind. While a few shelters allow animals, some force owners to keep them outside, and others don’t permit them at all. But that isn’t stopping advocates and … Read more

Twitter Users Help Find Lost Dog’s Owner During Hurricane Harvey

Storm chaser, Aaron Jayjack got more than just a fill-up when he stopped at a gas station in Runge, Texas Saturday. A soaking wet pooch began following him, eventually seeking refuge from Hurricane Harvey on the back seat of Jayjack’s Jeep! A loving dog dad himself, Jayjack posted a plea to Twitter asking viewers to reshare the dog’s image across social media in the hopes of locating his owner. Displaced dog jumped into my jeep. Please share to help find owner! … Read more

Breed: Yorkie Health Problems, Lifespan, Temperament & Maintenance

Minor concerns: Patellar luxation Occasionally seen: PRA Avg Size of Female: Height: 8-9 inches Weight: <7 pounds Life span: 12–16 years Suggested tests: Liver ultrasound, (knee), (eye) Major concerns: Portacaval shunt, tracheal collapse, Leggs–Perthes Avg Size of Male: Height: 8-9 inches Weight: <7 pounds Brief History on Yorkshire Terrier Origin The Yorkshire Terrier’s original function was to hunt and kill rats and other rodents in the cotton mills and mines in Yorkshire, England. Initially it was looked down upon by … Read more

Breed: Westie Health Problems, Lifespan, Temperament & Maintenance

Minor concerns: Copper toxicosis, cataract, patellar luxation, Life span: 12 – 14 years Major concerns: Globoid cell leukodystrophy, Legg-Perthes, CMO, Occasionally seen: Deafness Avg Size of Female: Height: 10 inches, Weight: 15-21 pounds Avg Size of Male: Height: 11 inches, Weight: 15-21 pounds Suggested tests: Hip, knee, Brief History on West Highland White Terrier Origin This breed was initially named after the town of Poltalloch, where they had been raised and bred for nearly a whole century prior to their … Read more

Breed: Weimeraner Health Problems, Lifespan, Temperament & Maintenance

Minor concerns: Spinal dysraphism, CHD, entropion, distichiasis, vWD, hemophilia A, hypertrophic osteodystrophy, Life span: 10 – 13 years Major concerns: Gastric torsion Occasionally seen: Ununited anconeal process, eversion of nictitating membrane, Avg Size of Female: Height: 23-25 inches, Weight: 70-85 pounds, Avg Size of Male: Height: 25-27 inches, Weight: 70-85 pounds, Suggested tests: Hip, eye, blood, Brief History on Weimaraner Origin It is uncertain where the Weimaraners steel grey coloring originate, however it goes far back to being an important … Read more

Breed: Vizsla Health Problems, Lifespan, Temperament & Maintenance

Occasionally seen: None Avg Size of Male: Height: 22-24 inches, Weight: 45-65 pounds Major concerns: None Suggested tests: Hip Minor concerns: Hemophilia A, CMO, CHD Life span: 10 – 14 years Avg Size of Female: Height: 21-23 inches, Weight: 45-65 pounds Brief History on Vizsla Origin Hungarian hunters were seeking a quick, agile and close-working dog that could point and retrieve birds, as well as track smaller sized mammals. Barons and warlords had discovered the breed and sought it out … Read more

Breed: St. Bernard Health Problems, Lifespan, Temperament & Maintenance

Minor concerns: OCD, diabetes, heart conditions, cardiomyopathy, pyotraumatic dermatitis Occasionally seen: Epilepsy Note: The Saint Bernard does not tolerate heat well. Suggested tests: Hip, elbow, cardiac, eye Avg Size of Female: Height: >25 inches, Weight: 120-200 pounds Avg Size of Male: Height: >27.5 inches, Weight: 120-200 pounds Major concerns: CHD, gastric torsion, entropion, ectropion, distichiasis, elbow dysplasia, osteosarcoma Life Span: 8 – 10 years Brief History on Saint Bernard Origin The Saint Bernard is a massive working dog from the … Read more