Page 611 – iHeartDogs.com

Shelter Dog Meal Donation Count:

Learn More

Genetic Syndrome In Humans May Help Explain Friendliness In Dogs

Researchers have found an interesting similarity between the genes of hyper-friendly dogs and humans with a rare inherited condition known as Williams syndrome or Williams-Beuren syndrome. The developmental disorder makes the humans it affects extremely social. Williams-Beuren syndrome affects about one in 10,000 humans and is characterized by a missing chunk of DNA that contains approximately 27 genes. The physical traits of a person with Williams-Beuren syndrome include a broad forehead, full cheeks, and heart defects. But it is the mental … Read more

Vet Refuses To Give Up On “Paralyzed” Puppy

Veterinarians are forced to make difficult decisions every day. Dr. Z of Duarte Azusa Animal Hospital outside Los Angeles recently found himself confronted with an agonizing situation involving a six-week-old puppy named Bo. The tiny pooch’s owners said she was paralyzed and signed over their rights to her after declining all treament – except euthanasia. But Dr. Z refused to give up on little Bo so easily.   He ran a series of tests that revealed the cause of Bo’s “paralysis.” … Read more

Woman Writes Touching Obituary For “Dog Legends Are Made Of”

It’s traditional to say a few words for our loved ones when we suffer a loss. With obituaries, epitaphs and eulogies, we have a number of ways to say farewell to our human friends and family. We’ve discussed before how losing a pet can be even harder than losing a friend or relative for a number of reasons. We don’t often get to mourn them the way we ought to, and our pets don’t always get the goodbyes they deserve … Read more

Why Cooling Collars Are So Effective At Keeping Pups Cool

Summer is a great time to get out and spend some time away from home with your pup! It’s time for vacations, camping, outdoor exercise, and the parks and beaches are full of other dogs to play with. But don’t forget that your dog feels the heat outdoors just like you do – and he has a fur coat he can’t take off. Though your dog may be great at a number of things, cooling down isn’t one of them. … Read more

Charity Gathers Volunteers To Help Shelter Accommodate Influx Of Pets

Part of each sale through the iHeartDogs store is donated to Greater Good, which helps support various charities, including Rescue Rebuild. Thanks to customers like you, happy endings, like the one below, are made possible.  Having heard that the Oklahoma City Animal Shelter was in dire need of repairs and expansion, Rescue Rebuild responded and drove over 3,000 miles to heed the call.   The Oklahoma City Animal Shelter is an outstanding organization with a fantastic support staff, but unfortunately, the area had a spike … Read more

Pet Umbrella Protects Your Pup From The Rain

Pet Life “Pour” Protection is an umbrella made just for your pet! No more laying down newspaper when the rain clouds start rolling in. You can take your best friend for his walk, rain or shine, without fear of sunburn or wet-dog-smell. Perfect for sun shower or rain shower, this umbrella will protect your pet from whatever elements nature throws at you! It’s designed like a traditional umbrella, with the difference being that it opens AWAY from the handle and … Read more

Dog Masters His “Inside Voice” As Not To Disturb The Neighbors

Noisy neighbors are one of the biggest drawbacks to living in an apartment. And if your neighbors have dogs? We all love dogs, but we don’t always love hearing them. Dogs are delightful, but 4 AM bark-a-thons are nobody’s cup of tea. This isn’t a problem for Dudley’s neighbors. He lives in the dorms at Greenville University with Brian Gertler and Brian’s wife. Not all dogs are cut out for apartment life, but with a little work, Dudley has become … Read more

Ehrlichiosis: The Other Tick-Borne Disease You Need To Know About

With so much frightening information circulating about Lyme Disease, it is easy to forget that creepy-crawly-tiny-ticks can transmit a host of other harmful diseases. One such tick-borne illness that has been steadily on the rise in the U.S. is ehrlichiosis. According to the Companion Animal Parasite Council, more than 123,000 dogs tested positive for one of the two main strains of Ehrlichia in 2016; more than twice the amount of cases reported just four years earlier.   The first symptoms … Read more

Shelter Dog Finds Salvation Running With High School Cross Country Team

Animal shelters do their best to provide the dogs in their care with as much love, exercise and enrichment as possible. Needless to say, it is a difficult feat. Glen Hatchell is a dog trainer at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. Recently, Hatchell became concerned for the emotional well-being of an energetic three-year-old pooch named Jasper. Even extra play sessions with the other dogs weren’t enough to quell the exuberant pup’s need for speed, and his behavior was suffering. Jasper … Read more

Humans So In Sync With Their Dogs, They Share Emotions

Those of us who are very in tune with our dogs always know how they’re feeling, and find that our pups seem to feed off our emotions, too. Thanks to a new study, there’s proof that dogs are empathetic and can distinguish between different types of moods. Researchers at the University of Vienna designed a study to determine whether dogs showed empathy for both negative and positive emotions in humans and dogs. In the experiment, pup parents and their companions were … Read more

Over 130 Dogs Saved From Korean Dog Meat Farm

Humane Society International is one of the leading forces battling the dog meat industry across the globe. Their mission is to put an end to an industry that steals pets from their homes, keeps innocent animals in deplorable conditions, and slaughters dogs for human consumption. Their recent work in South Korea puts them one step closer to that goal. https://www.facebook.com/hsiglobal/photos/pcb.10155733185547262/10155733176882262/?type=3&theater HSI recently identified a dog meat farm where over 130 dogs of all sizes, breeds, and backgrounds were being held … Read more

5 Reasons Your Dog May Be Digging & How To Stop It

We love our dogs and their quirky habits, but sometimes, they can get destructive! One behavior that many pet parents have to deal with is digging in the yard. While this is a good way to expend energy, most people aren’t fans of having a yard full of craters. Also – it can make a mess! But the first step to get your dog to stop digging is to figure out why she is engaging in this behavior. Based on … Read more

Dog Won’t Eat the Expensive Food You Buy for Him?

Puppy Dog Eyes Dog Wont Eat

Does this paint a familiar picture? It’s meal time and your pooch is excited by the sounds of food filling his bowl. His behind is wiggling in anticipation but when you put the dish down in front of him he sniffs the food and looks up at you mournfully. Your dog won’t eat the pricey food you bought for him even though he is hungry! You’re offering your pup quality, fresh food – not old, stale food. You may rarely … Read more

If You Only Give Your Dog One Supplement, It Should Probably Be This

We’re always searching for the next “miracle product” that can guarantee our dogs’ health. Unfortunately no such product exists, but the natural compounds found in Omega-3 essential fatty acids come pretty darn close! 10 Reasons Why So Many Dog Owners Are Supplementing with Omega-3 Fatty Acids Fish oil contains two essential Omega-3 fatty acids – EPA and DHA. The canine body is only able to synthesize them in limited quantities so many pup parents turn to supplements to give their … Read more

Is Your Dog Picky About Food? Try This Healthy Trick!

Dog picky about food

You know the scene, it’s meal time and your pup is excited about what you’re putting into his bowl. You fill it up and his tail is wagging so fast it’s a blur but when you put the dish down right where you always do he takes a few sniffs and turns around uninterested. You’re not feeding your dog old, spoiled food – it’s fresh from the container! Even if you never feed your dog human food, he’s somehow got … Read more

The 6 Most Common Inherited Diseases In Dogs

Whether your dog is purebred or a “Heinz 57” mixed breed, knowing which genetic conditions he or she is predisposed to can empower you to prepare for or even prevent a veterinary crisis. For example, dogs with elongated spines and short limbs, like Dachshunds and Corgis, are more likely to suffer from back injuries and disc problems. Restricting them from jumping can help avert disastrous injuries. The following conditions are the most common inherited diseases veterinarians diagnose in dogs. 1. … Read more

Studies Show Dogs May Help In The Battle Against Cancer

The bond between children and dogs has always been something to celebrate, and a team of doctors and scientists is hoping to use that connection to save thousands of lives. Research shows there may be a connection between the kind of cancer found in dogs and cancer that affects children. NBC Washington talked to veterinary oncologist Dr. Chand Kanna about his research linking cancers that affect both dogs and children. He said, “So if you take a human osteosarcoma, which … Read more

The 10 Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Dwellers

Pugs It’s no wonder these little love bugs are so popular – not only are they an endearing breed, they adjust to the apartment life quite well being relatively low energy. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel This breed is one that’s hard to pass by without noticing how cute they are! These spaniels stay small and never stop looking adorable! Dachshunds Dachshunds are a very popular breed, as they are great for small living spaces but pack a big attitude! English … Read more

Puppy Lets His Sibling Know When He’s Tired Of Playtime

Have you ever picked a fight with an older sibling, and then realize immediately that you bit off more than you could chew? This scenario isn’t limited to humans: these pups are a perfect example of what happens with a little brother gets brave – and then immediately remembers who the “big” brother is! Little Brother seems like he’s up for playtime when he manages to surprise and chase off his big brother, but when the tables are turned, it … Read more

Rescue Dog Transforms From Fearful Stray To Carefree Cutie

The most rewarding part about dog rescue – aside from watching them head off to their new homes – is witnessing the remarkable transformation that takes place when downtrodden rescue dogs realize they have been saved. There is a shift in every aspect of their behavior and posture, as if their long-lost hope for a brighter future has miraculously returned.   In the following video, the compassionate animal lovers at Hope For Paws save yet another lonely, dejected stray from the … Read more

5 Tips For Preventing Joint Problems In Your Dog

Unfortunately, joint pain and problems are a common part of getting older for both humans and our pups. While large breed dogs are more prone to joint problems than smaller dogs, any dog can suffer as they get older. Is there anything you can do to prevent joint problems from starting in the first place? The answer is yes! These 5 tips will give you a head start in preventing joint problems in your dog, or at least minimize symptoms.  … Read more

Can You Teach A Dog To Like Cats?

There are some dogs who love their feline friends at first sight, but then there are others who seem determined to play into that age-old stereotype that says dogs and cats can’t get along. Dogs are instinctive hunters, and a strong prey drive or a general dislike of cats can cause chaos between the two species. But if you’re an all-around animal lover, the question of whether or not you can train a dog to like cats has likely crossed … Read more

5 Tips To Get The Perfect Picture Of Your Pet

With those big, sweet eyes, perky ears, and goofy grin, it’s no wonder that your dog’s face is the only thing on your camera roll. Dogs make something as simple as snoozing on the couch a picture-worthy moment, but getting them to look their best isn’t always easy. The lighting is never right, they refuse to look at the camera, and getting them to stay still long enough to get a decent pose is usually impossible. Here are a few … Read more

5 Tips For Finding The Right Pet Sitter

We wish we could take our pets everywhere with us. Unfortunately, there are times and places where they can’t accompany us and we’re forced to leave them behind. If you’re lucky, you have friends and family who are willing and able to take in your fur kids when they can’t come with you. Sometimes, though, we’re forced to leave them with strangers. You want the best for your pet, even while you’re away, so picking a pet sitter shouldn’t be … Read more

Jewelry for Passionate Dog People

Loyal Friend Morse Code Legacy Urn Bracelet: Helps Pair Veterans With A Service Dog Or Shelter Dog $44.99 Original price was: $44.99.$34.99Current price is: $34.99. Filled With Love Memorial Magnetic Therapy Stainless Steel Bracelet $24.99 Original price was: $24.99.$12.97Current price is: $12.97. STRĀ Dog Beaded Bracelet- Rainbow Bridge Blue Spot Jasper & Crystal Stone- Donates 10 Meals to Help Feed Hungry Stray Dogs $19.99 Original price was: $19.99.$14.99Current price is: $14.99. Fund 50 Meals for $25.00 and Get 2 FREE ... Read more

How To Identify Heatstroke In Dogs

With the weather warming up in at least some parts of the world, it’s time to think about heat and your dog. We get a lot of warnings to make sure your dog doesn’t get to hot, but how do you know your dog is getting warm? Each year, Trupanion, a pet insurance company, receives several claims for heatstroke. Dr. Kerri Marshall, chief veterinary officer at Trupanion talked to us about heatstroke and how to identify it in your dog. … Read more

Dog Stolen From Colorado Shelter Turns Up In Las Vegas

In March of this year, Zeb, an energetic Pit Bull mix, was taken for a walk by a couple that claimed they wanted to adopt him from the Colorado Animal Rescue (CARE) near Glenwood Springs. They never returned him to the shelter. Still, the shelter staff kept hoping Zeb would find his way back. Tracey Yajk, CARE Behavior and Training Manager, said in a story by Glenwood Springs Post Independent: “We left Zeb’s kennel set up with a new bed for … Read more

6 Methods For Safely Breaking Up A Dog Fight

  Witnessing a fight between two dogs is a terrifying experience for any pawrent, especially if one or both of the dogs are your own. The first instinct tends to include screaming and rushing towards the brawlers, but excited behavior may only escalate the situation and put you at risk.  Rather than reacting on impulse, you should first determine if it is safe and completely necessary to intervene. If you do decide to break it up, try one of the … Read more

10 People Foods You CAN Share With Your Dog

We love to share food with our dogs, be it doggie treats or some snacks we love as well. There is a lot of warning against feeding dogs food meant for people, and there is a lot of truth to it. However, there are some people foods that are perfectly safe for your dogs to eat. Remember that the key in all treats is moderation, and be prepared that some dogs react differently to certain foods that others. So if … Read more

Saved From The Junkyard, This Pit Bull Is Now A Front Porch Princess

Chained inside a junkyard for years, this eight-year-old pit bull had lost her trust for humans. People called her “mean” and “gross,” but two roommates couldn’t watch her life be wasted on the wrong side of a chain link fence. They decided to rescue her, but helping a dog that has been neglected and mistreated for years is never simple. On the first day outside of the junkyard, the roommates had to muzzle her while they tried to get her … Read more

4 Natural Sources For Glucosamine – And Why Your Dog Needs It

You may have heard of glucosamine, especially if you have an older dog. Perhaps you’ve seen the word written in bold on supplement bottles and special kibble formulas. But what is this compound, and what can it do for your pooch? And where can you find the best glucosamine product for your dog? Glucosamine actually refers to the combination of glucose and glutamine, a simple sugar and an amino acid respectively, and it helps build cartilage and tissue in your … Read more

5 Reasons Dogs Need Collagen In Their Diet

Collagen is the main structural protein found in skin and connective tissues like joints, tendons, cartilage and ligaments. In fact, 30% of the total protein in a dog’s body is collagen. It determines the strength and elasticity of their hair, bones, nails, and teeth. As dogs age, their capacity to produce collagen diminishes making them more susceptible to injuries, painful conditions of the bones and joints, and poor skin and coat health. The depletion of healthy collagen in the body is … Read more

7 Ways To Clean Your Dog’s Teeth That They Won’t Hate

Since doggy dentures aren’t a thing, keeping your pup’s teeth clean and gums healthy is crucial for their overall health and well-being. Obviously, the best way to get your dog’s teeth clean is to have the vet scrape them while your dog is under anesthesia. This can be very expensive and there are risks associated with anesthesia, so you want to do everything you can to keep your dog’s teeth clean yourself. Brushing your dog’s teeth every day with a … Read more

How To Train A Dog That Isn’t Motivated By Treats

Most dogs are willing to do just about anything for the chance at a tasty treat. That kind of food motivated behavior makes training with treats a dog owner's go-to move, but what happens when your dog isn't interested in your pocketful of biscuits and bones? Without proper motivation, training a dog in obedience can feel impossible. You need something to grab their attention and get them listening, and when treats don't do the trick, it's time to switch tactics. ... Read more

Dolphin Tour Captain Saves Senior Dog From Drowning In Ocean

It’s prime dolphin-watching season in St. Pete Beach, Florida. But on July 11, a different kind of mammal appeared in the intercoastal waterway. Susi Herrington – a sailboat captain at Dolphin Landings Charter Boat Company – was piloting a full charter when she suddenly spotted a dark figure in the water. It was a 12-year-old dog, struggling to keep his head above the surf. As soon as she realized the Black Lab was in distress, Herrington’s rescue training kicked in. … Read more

Dog Finds New Home With UPS Driver After Owner’s Death

Leo, a Pit Bull in California has a new home after a tragedy, thanks to a close friend with a big heart. Tina, Leo’s original owner, adopted him when her son brought him home as a young puppy – young enough that he required bottle feeding. Tina took on the task of feeding and caring for him, and the two bonded. Leo lived happily, loved by Tina and well cared for until she passed away late last year. As his … Read more

Dog Escapes Yard, Runs Straight To His Best Friend For A Hug

There are few things as comforting as a loving embrace, and these dogs in Thailand couldn’t agree more! Messy, a laid-back yellow Lab, lives with his mom Oranit Kittragul and enjoys hanging out in their fenced-in yard. Across the street is a Husky named Audi, another pup who spends a lot of his time outside. But when his humans are away at work, sometimes Audi needs a friend. Oranit said in a story by The Dodo: “When he feels lonely and … Read more

This Huge Litter Of Puppies Was Saved From An Underground Cave

What started as a mama dog wanting to protect her pups turned into an emergency situation for the Michigan Humane Society. A litter of puppies was found in an underground tunnel in someone’s backyard. The mother dog dug the tunnel herself, most likely to keep her babies safe from the impending weather. But when the weather service issued a flood warning for the area, their underground haven soon turned into a potential death trap.   After being alerted of the … Read more

3 Heartfelt Ways To Remember a Beloved Pet

Saying goodbye to someone you love is one of the hardest things that you will ever deal with in life. And that’s not just for humans, but also for our furry family members. Losing a dog many times leaves an irreplaceable hole in our heart, regardless of all the memories that you have of times cherished together. But thankfully there are ways to commemorate, and even honor our best friends. Above all, it’s important to remember them for who they were and the endless … Read more

4 Tips For Introducing Your Rescue Dog To New People

Is your rescue dog shy or anxious about meeting new people? Dogs that weren’t properly socialized as puppies may be extremely fearful when meeting strangers. The good news is that it’s rarely too late to start socialization with your dog. The key is to introduce your dog to people slowly with lots of positive reinforcement. With that in mind, here are 4 tips for introducing your rescue dog to new people.   #1 – Use a leash If you’re expecting … Read more

Family Mourns A “Very Good Girl” In Touching Online Tribute

Losing a dog is never easy, and the best way to honor their memory is to celebrate their life. Stella was found abandoned in a box on the side of the road. It was snowing, and she and her siblings had been left to die. There wasn’t much hope for the tiny black puppy, but miraculously, Stella was one of two babies to survive. Imgur user Chozlogs took the puppy in, and they grew together to form a tight bond. … Read more

Teddy Bear Look-a-Like Dog Is Stealing Hearts Online

If you’re ever in the Philippines and see a small, fuzzy bear walking around at the end of a leash, you may need to stop and take a closer look. You’re probably looking at one of the internet’s favorite dogs—a three-year-old Chow Chow named Chowder. Chowder’s owners have always known their fluffy pup to be extra adorable, and they decided to give the dog his own social media accounts to share the love. https://www.facebook.com/chowderthebeardog/photos/a.1063393513749192.1073741828.1062095750545635/1067278750027335/?type=3&theater It didn’t take long for his … Read more

Dog Busts Out Of Shelter To Find Woman Who Gave Him Treats

The quickest way to a dog’s heart? His stomach. This is true for many dogs, but especially Ted. Ted is a half German Shepherd, half Akita mix who found himself in the Northwest Territories SPCA shelter in Canada earlier this year. Like many other shelter pets, Ted was afraid of his new surroundings, confused, and scared of the staff. Ted met Abbey, a volunteer, on the second day of his stay at the shelter. Abbey’s shift duties included trying to … Read more

Woman Leaves Hilarious List Of Rules For Her Dog-Sitting Nephew

Is there anything more stressful than trusting your furbabies to another human? Children can call or text if there is a problem, but our dogs are entirely at the mercy of their caretakers! While leaving a list of Do’s & Don’ts can help ensure peace of mind, Tommy Rivers’ aunt may have taken it a bit too far! Clearly uneasy about leaving her precious pup Pepper in Tommy’s hands, she created a very detailed list of expectations – and restrictions … Read more

Is Your Dog A Picky Eater? Try These 6 Tips & Tricks!

When it comes to food, there are two types of dogs: those who live to eat and those who eat to live. If your pooch lives to eat, pickiness is definitely not a problem in your household! But for dogs who aren’t motivated by food, convincing them to eat a healthy, well-rounded diet can be quite a challenge. A dog’s eating personality is usually established early on, so it is best to insist on a strict feeding routine right from the … Read more

Dog Found In Trash Comforts Foster Mom During Chemo

In May, a tiny Chihuahua was found on the side of a Lewiston, Maine road in a pile of discarded trash. A news story about his plight caught the attention of Laurie Marcotte. She fell in love with the pitiful pooch – named Motto by his rescuers – and contacted the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society to become his foster mom. Marcotte nursed Motto’s wounded soul, and in return, he provided constant love and support as she underwent chemotherapy. Motto was … Read more

3 Ways Dog Food Companies Are Lying To You

It should come as no surprise to our readers that pet food companies are not the most trusted institutions in the world. In a recent survey performed by the research team here at iHeartDogs, we found that only 6.9% of respondents trust that major market pet food brands are delivering quality, safe pet food products for their dogs. In addition, only 17% of consumers think that pet food manufacturers do a good job of educating consumers about pet nutrition. While … Read more

5 Reasons To Add Protein Toppers To Your Dog’s Food

Raw freeze dried dog food toppers aren’t necessarily new, but have only recently begun gaining major traction among dog parents. Recently we decided to look into why they are becoming so popular. Here’s 5 reasons we found: #1: Most Dry & Wet Dog Food Contain Surprisingly Low Amounts of Protein Have you ever looked at the list of ingredients on your dog’s food? Odds are, a protein source is listed as the first ingredient. However, many pet parents are surprised to … Read more

10 Tips To Help Your Exuberant Dog Interact With Other Pups

Dogs are social creatures who often enjoy making new four-legged friends. In fact, some pups enjoy these interactions so much that their over-excitement comes off as being hyper, or even slightly aggressive. (Not sure if your dog is being territorial or just overeager? Check out Is Your Dog Aggressive Or Exuberant? Here’s How To Tell.) If your find that your companion is on the exuberant side, his “love too hard” nature may result in lunging, leash-pulling, or unwelcome roughhousing, leading to sore arms for … Read more

Clever Dog Wins At “The Floor Is Lava” Game

We all played it as kids, without anyone really knowing who came up with it or where we learned it – but everyone did it. The Floor Is Lava game is making a comeback on social media with teens and young adults challenging each other to avoid the “lava” in ridiculous, almost impossible situations with often hilarious results. The game is supposed to be ongoing, with no real winner. Just a for-fun challenge. Somebody should have told Blaze that. No … Read more