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Little Boy In Need Of A Service Dog Gets A Christmas Miracle

Many children ask for dogs for Christmas, but few parents plead for a dog on their child’s behalf. But Nate Feola’s parents did. At only 9 years old, Nate Feola has already been through hardships many of us are lucky to never experience. He was born prematurely, weighing less than two pounds, and spent the first five months of his life living in a hospital. When he could finally go home, it was to parents who abused him so badly, … Read more

1,000 L.A. Shelter Pets Receive A Special Holiday Surprise

From December 12-17 of this year, more than 1,000 dogs and cats currently living in Los Angeles animal shelters received a special holiday meal thanks to Marc Ching, his team at the Animal Hope and Wellness Foundation, and dozens of volunteers. The meals, plus new bedding and blankets for the cold, are part of the foundation’s 3rd Annual Hope for the Holidays shelter feeding initiative. The meals were all made from Ching’s line of PetStaurant pet foods. They featured combinations of organic rice, beef … Read more

New Legislation Hopes To Crack Down On Puppy Mills

The idea of a puppy mill makes dog lovers shudder because we know the horrific conditions that these innocent animals face for the sake of profit. Now, two US Representatives are trying to pass laws that would make it more difficult for irresponsible breeders to continue their practices. Just a couple days ago, Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Charlie Crist (D-FL) unveiled two bills to make waves in this widely under-regulated industry. The Welfare of Our Friends (WOOF) Act (H.R. 4691), would … Read more

What’s So Special About Your Dog’s Favorite Toy?

It’s dirty, torn, and always covered in slobber, but your dog’s favorite toy holds a special place in their heart. They carry it from room to room and sleep with it every night. They have a big bin full of other balls, stuffed animals, and chews, but nothing compares to “their toy.” Not every dog has a specific toy they love the most, but those that do become as attached to their toys as a toddler is to a favorite … Read more

Dog Dad Builds Santa Sleigh Stairlift For Arthritic Senior Pup

Timmie is a 16-year-old Jack Russell Terrier and the faithful companion of graphic designer, Duncan Evans. The spirited pooch suffers from arthritis and other ailments that limit his mobility. After Timmie took a tumble down their home’s steep stairs, Evans decided to build him a stairlift. With Christmas just around the corner, he designed the lift to look just like Santa’s sleigh!   “Timmie has to take lots of medication for his enlarged heart and problems with his lungs, so … Read more

Why Are Some Dogs “Early Birds”?

Did you know that, depending on your dog’s age and breed, he needs 12 to 14 hours of sleep a night? It can be hard to believe when your dog is nudging his cold, wet nose in your face at 4 AM, but it’s a fact. Your dog needs his sleep just as much (if not more) than you do – so why does he feel the need to wake you up before your alarm can do the job? According … Read more

This Nativity Scene Starring Dogs Will Get You Into The Christmas Spirit

The nativity story is a classic tale told all over the world at Christmas time. We set up our little nativities in our yards or on our mantles, and even watch school children perform their nativity plays at this time of year. These scenes usually feature a few animals – sheep, sometimes camel, but dogs aren’t often included. It’s even more rare to see dogs starring in a nativity! The people at Wags to Riches Pet Services in Mountsorrel, UK … Read more

A Sweet Senior Dog Is This College’s Unofficial Mascot

When the students at Massey University in New Zealand think about their mascot, it may not be a sprinting wildcat or a mythical creature. Instead, what comes to many of the kids’ minds is Richie McPaw (presumably named after rugby player Richie McCaw), a 15-year-old yellow Lab that loves to traipse around campus! Campus chaplain Jill Shaw is Richie’s mom, and he accompanies her at least once a week. The pup loves making the rounds, visiting students to ease stress … Read more

Montreal Suspends Breed Ban On “Pit Bull-Type Dogs”

In 2016, a controversial bylaw was passed in Montreal, Canada that required Pit Bulls to be muzzled when walked, charged existing owners to keep their dogs, and forbade Pit Bull-type dogs from being adopted. Today, that breed-specific legislation has been struck down by the Project Montreal administration. Existing dangerous dog laws remain in place and a new bylaw is expected to be passed early in 2018 after extensive consultation with animal behavior experts, dog owners, and non-dog owners in order … Read more

Why Does My Dog Roll Over To Show Me His Belly?

Your dog does a lot of cute things to get your attention, and rolling onto their back to show you their tummy is a prime example of why you can never be mad at them for long. Whether that tummy is pudgy, skinny, furry, or hairless, having your dog roll over at your feet is an invitation you’re powerless to refuse. Once the rubbing starts, it’s obvious your dog enjoys it, but have you ever thought about why? Dogs expose … Read more

11 Ways You Know You’re A Crazy Dog Parent

Our dogs are our babies. We consider them family from day 1, we care for them, and they become a vital part of our lives. From the way we spoil and gush about our dogs, some people may think we’re nuts. But we don’t care, because we know our pooches make us happier, healthier, and overall better people. Here are 11 signs that you’re a crazy pup parent, and that’s okay; because if anyone understands your canine-loving quirks, it’s definitely us. 1. You consider yourself a dog parent … Read more

The 5 Different Types Of Dog Growls

Most people assume a growling dog is bad news, but that isn’t always the case. Dogs vocalize their thoughts and feelings in several different ways. They bark and whine, and the low rumbling we call growling can mean multiple things. There’s the basic aggressive growl most people know to watch out for, but a growling dog isn’t always an angry dog. Knowing the different situations where a dog might let out a growl will help you better communicate with your … Read more

How The Winter Solstice Might Affect Your Pet

The Winter Solstice is upon us, and with the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it typically comes and goes without notice. On this day, those of us who live in the Northern Hemisphere will be as far away from the sun as we have been all year. It’s also the official first day of winter, and the day with the least amount of sunlight. Although we may not mark the occasion with a party or give it much … Read more

If You’ve Noticed Your Mastiff Is Slower to Get Up, Begin This Routine Immediately!

Is your mastiff beginning to have trouble with everyday activities like rising after sleeping, climbing stairs, and hopping in and out of the car? Pain caused by the degeneration of joint tissue is very common in aging dogs. Sadly, in some larger breeds joint destress can begin at a very young age. While pharmaceutical drugs can offer relief, they also carry the risk of serious side effects leading many vets and pet parents to seek out natural supplements like Glucosamine, … Read more

If You’ve Noticed Your Pit Bull Is Slower to Get Up, Begin This Routine Immediately!

Is your pit bull beginning to have trouble with everyday activities like rising after sleeping, climbing stairs, and hopping in and out of the car? Pain caused by the degeneration of joint tissue is very common in aging dogs. Sadly, in some larger breeds joint destress can begin at a very young age. While pharmaceutical drugs can offer relief, they also carry the risk of serious side effects leading many vets and pet parents to seek out natural supplements like … Read more

If You’ve Noticed Your Boxer Is Slower to Get Up, Begin This Routine Immediately!

Is your boxer beginning to have trouble with everyday activities like rising after sleeping, climbing stairs, and hopping in and out of the car? Pain caused by the degeneration of joint tissue is very common in aging dogs. Sadly, in some larger breeds joint destress can begin at a very young age. While pharmaceutical drugs can offer relief, they also carry the risk of serious side effects leading many vets and pet parents to seek out natural canine supplements like … Read more

If You’ve Noticed Your St. Bernard Is Slower to Get Up, Begin This Routine Immediately!

Is your st bernard beginning to have trouble with everyday activities like rising after sleeping, climbing stairs, and hopping in and out of the car? Pain caused by the degeneration of joint tissue is very common in aging dogs. Sadly, in some larger breeds joint destress can begin at a very young age. While pharmaceutical drugs can offer relief, they also carry the risk of serious side effects leading many vets and pet parents to seek out natural supplements like … Read more

If You’ve Noticed Your Newfoundland Is Slower to Get Up, Begin This Routine Immediately!

Is your newfoundland beginning to have trouble with everyday activities like rising after sleeping, climbing stairs, and hopping in and out of the car? Pain caused by the degeneration of joint tissue is very common in aging dogs. Sadly, in some larger breeds joint destress can begin at a very young age. While pharmaceutical drugs can offer relief, they also carry the risk of serious side effects leading many vets and pet parents to seek out natural supplements like Glucosamine, … Read more

If You’ve Noticed Your Dachshund Is Slower to Get Up, Begin This Routine Immediately!

Is your dachshund beginning to have trouble with everyday activities like rising after sleeping, climbing stairs, and hopping in and out of the car? Pain caused by the degeneration of joint tissue is very common in aging dogs. Sadly, in some larger breeds joint destress can begin at a very young age. While pharmaceutical drugs can offer relief, they also carry the risk of serious side effects leading many vets and pet parents to seek out natural supplements like Glucosamine, … Read more

If You’ve Noticed Your Golden Retriever Is Slower to Get Up, Begin This Routine Immediately!

Is your golden retriever beginning to have trouble with everyday activities like rising after sleeping, climbing stairs, and hopping in and out of the car? Pain caused by the degeneration of joint tissue is very common in aging dogs. Sadly, in some larger breeds joint destress can begin at a very young age. While pharmaceutical drugs can offer relief, they also carry the risk of serious side effects leading many vets and pet parents to seek out natural supplements like … Read more

If You’ve Noticed Your Lab Is Slower to Get Up, Begin This Routine Immediately!

Is your lab beginning to have trouble with everyday activities like rising after sleeping, climbing stairs, and hopping in and out of the car? Pain caused by the degeneration of joint tissue is very common in aging dogs. Sadly, in some larger breeds joint destress can begin at a very young age. While pharmaceutical drugs can offer relief, they also carry the risk of serious side effects leading many vets and pet parents to seek out natural supplements like Glucosamine, … Read more

If You’ve Noticed Your Rottweiler Is Slower to Get Up, Begin This Routine Immediately!

Is your rottweiler beginning to have trouble with everyday activities like rising after sleeping, climbing stairs, and hopping in and out of the car? Pain caused by the degeneration of joint tissue is very common in aging dogs. Sadly, in some larger breeds joint destress can begin at a very young age. While pharmaceutical drugs can offer relief, they also carry the risk of serious side effects leading many vets and pet parents to seek out natural supplements like Glucosamine, … Read more

If You’ve Noticed Your Great Dane Is Slower to Get Up, Begin This Routine Immediately!

Is your great dane beginning to have trouble with everyday activities like rising after sleeping, climbing stairs, and hopping in and out of the car? Pain caused by the degeneration of joint tissue is very common in aging dogs. Sadly, in some larger breeds joint destress can begin at a very young age. While pharmaceutical drugs can offer relief, they also carry the risk of serious side effects leading many vets and pet parents to seek out natural dog supplements … Read more

If You’ve Noticed Your German Shepherd Is Slower to Get Up, Begin This Routine Immediately!

Is your german shepherd beginning to have trouble with everyday activities like rising after sleeping, climbing stairs, and hopping in and out of the car? Pain caused by the degeneration of joint tissue is very common in aging dogs. Sadly, in some larger breeds joint destress can begin at a very young age. While pharmaceutical drugs can offer relief, they also carry the risk of serious side effects leading many vets and pet parents to seek out natural supplements like … Read more

Forgot a Gift? We’ve Got You Covered

You’ve just realized that you don’t have a present for your great-aunt Martha or her little maltese mix that travels with her everywhere she goes – and it’s too late to go shopping now. It happens! And, hey, we’ve got you covered. This year, give those who are dear to you and love dogs this (last minute) gift. It’s a heart-felt gift and no one will be the wiser that you’ve just printed it off for them! An iHeartDogs Digital … Read more

Jolly Newfies Deliver Christmas Trees By Sled At This Family Farm

Lillie Bell, Stella and Matilda may not look like your typical sled dogs, but they are certainly strong enough to do the job. Bonus: They love it! The three “gentle giants” belong to the Eshelman family of Plow Farms in Plowville, Pennsylvania. Last year, they hosted a Newfoundland Meet-Up Day where the pups pulled Christmas tree-laden sleighs for customers. The event was such a hit, they decided to make it an annual occurrence! Newfies were bred to pull fishing nets and … Read more

Shelter Makes Controversial Decision To Halt Adoptions Until After The Holidays

Dogs Trust is the largest canine welfare charity in Ireland and the UK. The organization has been rescuing and rehoming pups since 1891 with their now-famous motto, “A dog is for life.” In keeping with this philosophy, the Dublin rehoming center has suspended all adoptions until after the New Year in an effort to discourage people from bringing home pets on a whim. The charity took to the streets in order to demonstrate the message of their Paws For Thought campaign. Using … Read more

Why Do Dogs That Weren’t Abused Develop Fear / Anxiety?

When a rescue dog is afraid of certain people or objects, it is often assumed that he was traumatized by a similar thing in his past. While this could very well be true, there are other dogs who’ve been raised from puppyhood and still develop irrational fears, despite being loved their entire lives. This can get pet parents upset and frustrated, wondering, “Did I do something wrong?” If this sounds like you, don’t be hard on yourself. The fact is, having … Read more

A Dying Man’s Last Wish Is To Find A Home For His Beloved Senior Dog

For the past eight years, the Woodward dog park in Fresno, California has been like a second home for a 10-year-old Beagle mix named Rowdy. Her owner, Harold, has been taking her every day so she can enjoy the socialization and exercise.  The pair’s regular trips, however, came to an end when Harold’s cancer prevented him from taking care of his dog. https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10155964501857328&set=pcb.10155964510812328&type=3&theater He was diagnosed with esophagus cancer, and it has since spread to his liver and lungs. The … Read more

College Grad Receives Diploma Alongside Service Dog Who Made It All Possible

On Saturday, December 16, Taylor Dearman crossed the commencement stage at Texas A & M University in Corpus Christi to receive her Bachelor of Science degree in Reading Education. By her side – as she has been for the past four years – was Skittles, Dearman’s service dog. The joyous day marked an occasion Dearman may never have experienced if not for the mixed breed pup. “At my last university, I started experiencing anxiety, severe depression and seizures,” Dearman shared … Read more

Terminally Ill Pup Brings Youthful Spark To Senior Dog Retirement Home

At just 18-months-old, Trigger is by far the youngest resident at Vintage Pet Rescue. The Rhode Island “retirement home” is designed to give senior shelter dogs a place to live out their final days in comfort. Sadly, young Trigger has more in common with his elderly housemates than meets the eye. He is in stage four renal failure and likely has just months to live. The boisterous, happy-go-lucky pooch is blissfully unaware of his condition, and his vibrant presence is breathing … Read more

The Last Minute Gift Your Dog-Loving Loved Ones Will Love

It’s the final hours before the presents are all unwrapped and you’ve realized that one (or more) gifts still have yet to be purchased. Panic has set in and you’re trying to figure out what to do. We’ve been there, you’re not alone! In fact, it may have been one of the reasons why we started offering printable gift certificates in the first place. Our iHeartDogs printable gift certificates make for perfect gifts for any dog lover. They also happen … Read more

Man Wants To Re-Adopt Surrendered Dog After Donors Paid For His Care

On December 13, a man brought his 10-year-old Chihuahua, Boris, to the Humane Society after the pooch suffered a broken jaw during an altercation with another dog. Boris was in extreme pain, but his owner did not have the funds to pay for X-rays and surgery. He made the decision to surrender Boris to the shelter. Now that he is in recovery, Boris’s owner hopes to re-adopt him, leading to mixed emotions among pet lovers and the animal rescue community. … Read more

Doggy Butt-Sniffing – It’s More Than Just A Personal Greeting

“Why do dogs sniff each other’s butts?” is one of the most commonly asked questions among pup parents. While this behavior would make us extremely uncomfortable, it is a perfectly acceptable greeting among dogs. Many refer to it as the “canine handshake”, but it turns out dogs can actually intuit far more information than a mere “how-do-you-do” with this custom.   The key to understanding doggy butt-sniffing behavior lies within the anal glands – two sacs of pungent, chemical-packed fluid … Read more

Perfectly Practical Reasons Why Dogs Eat Their Own Vomit

If you spend enough time around dogs, eventually you will witness one of their most dreaded behaviors. Whether they eat too quickly or simply swallow something that doesn’t agree with them, dogs occasionally vomit. And when they do, some of them choose to eat it. As disgusting as it may seem, scarfing down their own barf is a normal canine behavior with some remarkably reasonable explanations. A warm, foamy pile of fresh vomit may make our stomachs turn, but to dogs … Read more

Stylish Dog Loves To Drive In His Luxury Cars

Luigi Maestro is a five-year-old Shih-Tzu who loves treats, attention, and cruising down the streets of New York in one of his many luxury cars. Most humans consider themselves lucky to buy even one luxury car in their lifetime, but Luigi has a Bentley, a Porche, a Ferrari, and a Beemer. And no, these aren’t his mom’s cars – these cars are all his. His size, remote-controlled, and each has a trunk that holds his food and water bowls so … Read more

Welfare Groups: Popularity Of Bulldogs & Pugs In Ads Is Harmful To The Breeds

Breathing difficulties, recurring skin infections, eye diseases and spinal problems are among the issues faced by flat-faced or brachycephalic dog breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs. Despite these problems, they continue to grow in popularity. UK Animal welfare groups believe the appeal of short-muzzled breeds is encouraged by their frequent use in advertising, resulting in a “welfare crisis” for dogs. “There is a real concern that the use of French Bulldogs, Bulldogs and Pugs in adverts is fueling the popularity of these breeds, … Read more

Kansas’ First Pit Bull Officer Takes On The Drug Trade AND Breed Stereotypes

Kano is a regal, full-blooded Red-Nosed Pit Bull. He has one soulful hazel eye and one that is a stunning icy blue. For most of his life, Kano has trained for the distinguished title he holds today: Kansas’ very first Pit Bull narcotics K9. Representing an often-misunderstood breed, Kano will be judged on more than just his policework; but his handler Officer Mason Paden says they are up for the challenge. “Just like people dogs are individuals too!” Paden said … Read more

Ask A Vet: Should My Dog Wear A Coat In Winter?

There are two camps of people in the world, dog people and… everyone else! I am only kidding, but there are people that think dogs are “only animals” and do not need all that we provide them with. For those people I have a thought: our dogs are not wolves and not even wild animals at all. We have taken them into human society and they have adapted to it. This process is domestication. Domestic pets, especially indoor dwelling ones … Read more

Why Is My Dog Afraid Of Men?

When you love your dog more than words can describe, it’s only natural that you want everyone else to love her, too. But beyond that, you want your dog to happily enjoy the company of the people she meets, especially friends and family who come to visit. But what happens if your dog has an inexplicable fear of certain people? In particular, dog owners commonly report that their pups are afraid of men, and chances are, you have a fair amount … Read more

3 Reasons Your Dog May Be In A “Bad Mood”

When your fur family member suddenly decides to start acting more like a hairy, sullen teenager, it may cause you to be concerned. But don’t worry – you probably didn’t do anything wrong and it’s probably not just a phase, Mom. Instead, your dog may be trying to tell you something, and as the person who knows him best, it’s up to you to figure it out. 1. Needs Aren’t Being Met Imagine going all day on no sleep, no … Read more

Nap-Loving Pup Stacks All His Dog Beds Into One Giant Pile Of Luxury

Rescue pups Eevee and Finnick are more than just siblings; they are best friends. But even BFFs have their differences. While Eevee has a major toy obsession, Finnick’s personal passion is a bit more unique. The mixed breed pooch has a soft spot (no pun intended) for dog beds – especially the ones purchased for his much smaller sister. A post shared by Eevee & Finnick (@eeveeandfinnick) on Nov 30, 2017 at 3:15pm PST Eevee and Finnick’s mom, Rachel Canfield … Read more

“Naughty” And “Nice” Holiday Foods For Your Dog

This holiday season, you might be tempted to share your delicious meals with your fur family members, but some of your favorite holiday foods might be dangerous for your dog. Knowing which table scraps are safe to share with your pooch can help you avoid the stress of a trip to the emergency room. In order to save you some time scouring the internet to find out what your dog can and can’t eat this holiday season, here are some … Read more

Family Dog Gets ‘Arrested’ After Hilarious Holiday Mischief

A New Mexico family is struggling to regain their holiday spirit after a friend was murdered at the paws of one of their own. Holly the Christmas Elf was a yearly visitor to the home of San Juan County undersheriff, Shane Ferrari. On the morning of December 2, Ferrari discovered Holly’s dismembered body by the doggy door – a known hangout of Josie Ferrari a.k.a “The Mutt”. The evidence led the lawman to the horrifying discovery that the murder was … Read more

Do Dogs Play Favorites When It Comes To Their Humans?

Feed them, love them, and give them somewhere safe to call home, and you’re on your way to your dog’s good side. But the question on every dog owner’s mind is, “Does my dog love me more than everyone else?” Parents say they don’t have favorite family members, but that neutral stance doesn’t necessarily apply to the dog. If your dog seems to gravitate more toward one family member than anyone else, there’s a good chance they’ve picked their favorite … Read more

Shelter Compiles Exact Reasons For Huge Spike In Surrenders After Christmas

Last year, the Dogs Trust rehoming centers in Glasgow and West Calder, Scotland received 703 calls from pet owners looking to surrender their dogs in the weeks immediately following the holidays. Staff members fielded excuses such as “I got him as a secret Santa present” and “She wags her tail far too much.” The owners were clearly unmoved by the rescue’s slogan “A dog is for life, not just for Christmas.” Dogs Trust is the UK’s largest canine rescue organization with a … Read more

Blind Dog Learns To Face Her Fears Thanks To Her Special Needs Sister

Sometimes all you need to face your fear is a good friend by your side. That’s the lesson Alexa Fiala learned when she decided to bring a second dog into her home. As a veterinarian, Fiala didn’t hesitate when a breeder told her there was a blind puppy in need of a family. The breeder couldn’t sell the dog due to her disability, and Fiala agreed to welcome the blind dog named Dunder into the family. https://www.instagram.com/p/BZ6zKONBu4C/?taken-by=dunderthedog Dunder was her … Read more

12 Fabulous Gifts For The Chihuahua Lover On Your List

Chihuahuas are known for their intellience, sass, and fierce loyalty to their humans. It’s no wonder they are one of the most popular breeds in America! If you are lucky enough to have a Chi-mom on your shopping list, she likely shares many of the same wonderful traits as her favorite breed. Make her holiday special with one of these 15 fabulously adorable gifts.   1. Chihuahua Print Socks, $6.99 or Mix & match any 5 socks for $25 Who doesn’t … Read more

15 Perfect Gifts For The Lab Lover On Your List

Loyal, smart, happy-go-lucky Labrador Retrievers are hard not to love, and it's really no wonder that they're America's most popular dog breed! There's a good chance you have a Lab fanatic in your life, and if you've been wondering what to get them this holiday season, look no further. Below, you'll find 12 gifts to suit any personality for everyone who's crazy about Labs, Lab mixes, and anything that barks! 1. Lab USA Ceramic Star Ornament, $9.99. This product feeds 3 ... Read more

Golden Retriever Serves As Flower Girl At Her Pawrents’ Wedding

Briana and Kevin Schaefer consider their 4-year-old Golden Retriever, Norah their daughter – or dog-ter if you prefer. When it came to planning their November 4 wedding, there was never any doubt that Norah would be included somehow. “The bond we have with Norah is special, she’s our fur baby,” Briana told The Knot. The couple decided that the golden cutie would serve as their flower girl, complete with a wreath of flowers draped around her neck. Norah behaved like a … Read more

Man Makes 1300 Mile Roadtrip To Reunite Missing Dog With His Mom

On December 5, Zach Holt and a very lucky dog named Zimba began a 1300 mile roadtrip from Ridgeley, Maryland to Wichita, Kansas. Waiting at the end of that long journey was Zimba’s human, Ikea Mosley. Although ecstatic that the lost dog she had been searching for was safe, the single mother was unable to take the necessary time off work to retrieve him. It all began last month when Mosley’s boyfriend left Kansas for a visit to Maryland with … Read more