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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

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 A Disabled Puppy Mill 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 On Fatal “Pit Bull” Attack Concludes That Breed Was Not A Factor

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

Another Major City Takes Big Steps Toward More Humane Animal Treatment

After eight months of community meetings and two surveys, residents in San Antonio, TX have made their voices heard. City council members voted on Thursday to continue with the current Animal Care Services (ACS) strategic plan and add a few new ordinances related to animal welfare. https://www.facebook.com/SanAntonioACS/photos/a.424984842572.209387.297356532572/10156083441887573/?type=3&theater The biggest change in the local law addresses the common problem of using chains to tether dogs. According to the new regulation, it’s now illegal to use any kind of chain to tie … Read more

Lost Therapy Dog Reunited With Owner After Las Vegas Tragedy

A city desperate for the smallest spark of hope has a reason to rejoice today. Reed Cowan, a reporter for News 3 Las Vegas, has been diligently following the story of Ryan Needham and his service dog, Roulette. Rou went missing during the mass shootings Sunday night at the Route 91 Country Music Festival. Needham and his fiancé refused to return home to California without their beloved pup, and now they won’t have to, because Rou has been found! Cowan … Read more

Rescue Dog’s Tongue Earns Her A Place In The Guinness Book Of World Records!

If you have a Saint Bernard you know just how slobbery these gentle giants can be, but imagine raising Mochi, whose above-average tongue was just added to the Guinness Book of World Records! Mochi is a rescue whose tongue measures at 7.31 inches long. If that doesn’t sound impressive, think of it another way: from snout to tip, it’s about as long as a medium banana; it’s almost twice as long as the average human tongue; and it’s even longer … Read more

What Is Droopy Eye In Dogs?

What is Droopy Eye? Horner’s syndrome refers to a nervous system disorder affecting the eye. The pupils will be small, the eyelid partially closed, and the 3rd eyelid will be elevated and protruding slightly. While not serious on its own, Horner’s syndrome may indicate problems with the nervous system. “Droopy eye” is a condition in which the nerves to a dog’s eye have been inflamed or damaged. This leads to a number of highly identifiable characteristics that veterinarians refer to … Read more

Dog Collars: The Potential Danger That All Dog Owners Must Be Made Aware Of

When Stephanie Stafford pulled into her driveway, she knew immediately that something wasn’t right. Her four dogs, Sheriff, Cal-e, Booker, and foster dog Chance, were not bouncing at the window like usual. There was no greeting at all. What happened next is a truly horrifying nightmare for any dog owner (warning: graphic story). Stafford rushed into her house. Sheriff and Chance were laying in a crate, fine. But nothing could prepare her for what she found next: Cal-e and Booker … Read more

Officials Retire Police Dog So He Can Stay With Fallen Officer’s Family

3-year-old Belgian Malinois, Ike, was the canine partner of Sergeant Mike Pershall until the officer was killed by a suspected drunk driver on August 22. Under normal circumstances, the dog would be assigned to a new handler and continue his service to the city of Modesto, CA. But on Tuesday, officials agreed that these are not normal circumstances, and Ike should be retired from the department and remain with Pershall’s wife and two children. Pershall was off duty when he … Read more

Badly Injured Dog Finds Help and New Home After Being Dumped In State Park

Park rangers in Apache Junction, AZ got a surprise last week when a dog mysteriously showed up outside of the ranger station in Lost Dutchman State Park. The dog appeared to be an Australian Cattle Dog mix, and he also appeared to be in a lot of pain. Both of his front legs were broken, and he was very clearly frightened. April Loew, the ranger who found him told ABCNews, “His tail was tucked under, he was literally shaking. He … Read more

Veteran Could Not Afford To Eat Until This Charity Stepped In

Tracy is a Kansas resident who served in the US Army Reserves and separated as a Staff Sargeant E-6. She served in Desert Storm/Desert Shield and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal among other citations. When Tracy found GreaterGood.org partner, Feed Our Vets, she was going hungry waiting for service connect benefits and was in crisis in a big way.   Tracy had to give away her dog because she couldn’t afford to feed him anymore. She receives just … Read more

This State’s Shelters Will Waive Adoption Fees For Veterans On Veteran’s Day

November 11, 2017 will mark the 99th anniversary of the American holiday known as Veteran’s Day, which was originally set to commemorate the end of World War I. This week, Illinois Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza announced that animal shelters across the state will honor their veterans by waiving adoption fees on all available dogs and cats for servicemen and women on Saturday, November 11. Congratulations to this special senior pup on finding a home today! We couldn’t be happier for you … Read more

After Being Re-Homed Several Times, This Puppy’s New Mom Discovers Her Amazing Talent

We know our dogs are smart, but sometimes, we underestimate them – which just gives them the chance to surprise us, and they do again and again! Some of you may think you’ve seen everything dogs have to offer and there are no surprises left. To you I say: hold on to your hat! You haven’t seen anything until you’ve seen Penny Loggins! Penny comes from humble beginnings. As a young puppy, Penny was found wandering around a local park … Read more

Hurricane Irma Evacuee Attempts To Locate Missing Dog With Billboards

As Hurricane Irma approached her home in Fort Lauderdale, Forida, Karen Calcano and her deaf senior dog Geordie evacuated to Raleigh, North Carolina to take shelter with family. Sadly, on September 14, Geordie escaped from the Riverside community in Northeast Raleigh. Heartbroken and fearful for Geordie’s life, Calcano has hired a pet tracker, placed a billboard ad, and offered a $3,500 reward. An update on the search for a Hurricane Irma evacuee’s missing deaf dog in Raleigh. . . . … Read more

16 Dog-Inspired Manicures That You’ll Love

For dog lovers, sometimes it’s fun to show off our love for the canine kind. And if you like to have pretty nails and want to get creative, then why not try a dog-inspired manicure! You could go as simple as finding a polish to match the color of your dog’s coat. Or, you could take things a step further and try one of these fun ideas. There’s lots to choose from, whether you like lots of color, subtle paw … Read more