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See Precious Footage Of Shelter Pets Who Get To Feel Special For Christmas

Every year the Animal Rescue League of Iowa sets up Trees of Life in the lobbies of their 7 shelter locations where friendly humans can drop off donations of food, supplies, toys and treats. It is a cherished tradition and the area communities certainly haven’t let the animals down this year. Check out the haul underneath the tree at the main office in Des Moines! This week, the holiday spirit got the best of the shelter staff and they decided … Read more

Pregnant Pit Bull Discarded In A Dumpster Is Rescued In Time To Give Birth In Safety

The holidays often bring out the best in human nature; but for others, their cruelty knows no season. This past weekend a very pregnant mama Pit Bull was tossed into a dumpster like garbage by an unknown culprit. She was rescued just in time to give birth to her seven puppies in a warm, safe place, surrounded by kind and helpful shelter staff. The sweet pooch is being called Mary in honor of her miraculous holiday birth story. One chilly … Read more

Dog Is Not Phased By The Roomba Attempting To Clean Him

I’ve been holding off on buying a Roomba. Not because I enjoy pushing around a heavy, awkward vacuum cleaner or emptying out ten pounds of dog hair every other day. I don’t have a Roomba because I’m pretty sure at least one of my three dogs would have an absolute meltdown over it.   The Chihuahua mix would probably break a tooth (or five) trying to attack it. The Poodle mix would be too terrified to move, and my Lab/Hound … Read more

The Trendy New Kind of Dog Treat Akitas Go Nuts For

Let’s be honest. Half the reason we give our Akitas treats is the joy it gives us as owners. Am I right? 🙂 And after all, how could one resist such eyes… Let’s Be Honest. Most Dog Treats Are Junk Food for Dogs. Why is this? There are two main reasons: 1.  Just like humans, dogs like junk! Fat, salt, and sugar taste great and keep us coming back for more. 2. Grains, fat, and other fillers are cheaper for dog treat … Read more

Dog Found On The Brink Of Death Spends MONTHS Recovering… See Her Amazing Transformation!

Poor Antonia comes from tragic beginnings. At just one year old, she was found behind a trashcan in an alley in Chicago and was so neglected and sick, she was on the brink of death. With a high fever and severe infections, this poor pup was covered in maggots that had burrowed in the mats of her fur. She was taken to Trio Animal Foundation (TAF), where her skin was treated as if it were burned, and aggressive antibiotics were … Read more

18-Year-Old Dog Celebrates One Year With The Couple Who Rescued Him The Previous Christmas

On December 19, 2015, a young couple named Beth and Michael stopped by Anne Arundel County Animal Control with a carload of food and treats to brighten the holidays for the shelter pets. They met a 17-year-old dog named Rocky who had been in and out of the shelter 6 times since 2012. The couple fell in love with him and pledged that Rocky would never spend another night alone in a kennel. https://www.facebook.com/FAACAC/posts/931779883581231:0 Beth and Michael knew that Christmas … Read more

3 Tips For Cleaning Your Labrador Retriever’s Ears

Labrador Retrievers are known for being prone to ear issues, especially infections caused by bacteria from dirty ears. Thankfully, just by cleaning them yourself, you can help your Lab’s ears stay healthy. This not only makes her happier, but avoids vet bills. One of the most important things is to check those ears often for dirt, debris, and signs of infections – especially after your Lab has been outside or in the water. When it is time to clean, follow these … Read more

3 Tips For Cleaning Your Golden Retriever’s Ears

One of things we all love about Golden Retrievers are their long, soft ears. You could stroke them forever and it’s very therapeutic. But those long ears are prone to all sorts of health issues because moisture and dirt get stuck under them. Thankfully, just by cleaning them, you can help your Golden’s ears stay healthy, which not only makes her happier, but avoids vet bills. Be sure to check your Golden’s ears often, especially if they are prone to … Read more

Community Decorates A Snow Covered Tree In Honor Of Dogs Past & Present

The city of Billings, Montana is a dream destination for dogs. On top of all the gorgeous walking trails and scenic parks, several restaurants and businesses also cater to the pooches. So when an impromptu memorial honoring man’s best friend began appearing around the city at Christmastime it was no shock to Marcia Clausing, co-chair of the organization Friends of Billings Dog Parks. “It’s probably the work of a neighborhood dog-walking group. They probably do it because they love their … Read more

The Kinda Gross Thing Your Dog Absolutely Needs In Their Diet

Because we want the best for our dogs, we often project our own preferences on our furkids. This includes our preference for certain kinds and qualities of meat. We humans tend to associate organ meats with low quality. In other words, it’s the stuff that’s left over at the butcher that no one wants to buy. Dogs however, and their wolf ancestors, disagree completely. Without going into too much gruesome detail, when a wolf kills in the wild, they often go after … Read more

Firefighters Rescue A Missing Dog Trapped In The Ice Of A Frigid Creek

Thanks to the brave firefighters of the Perry Joint Fire District, a lost and highly endangered dog has been reunited with his family this week. The local police alerted the fire rescue team to a terrified dog who had broken through the ice of a frozen creek and was trapped in the frigid water. They immediately rushed to his aid. Koda the Bull Mastiff/Lab mix and his brother Hank had gotten loose from the family home a few days prior. … Read more

Once The Runt Of His Litter, He Is Now The World’s Biggest Dog

Freddy the Great Dane has a true “underdog” story! Once the runt of the litter, 4-year-old Freddy has recently nabbed the title for World’s Biggest Dog! On his hind legs, Freddy is 7 feet and 6 inches tall, and weighs 14.5 stone, or a whopping 203 pounds! He lives with his littermate Fleur and human Claire Stoneman in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex. There, the two colossal canines are showered with love and affection. “They are children to me… because I haven’t had any kids. … Read more

The Trendy New Kind of Treat Dogs Go Nuts For

Let’s be honest. Half the reason we give our pups treats is the joy it gives us as owners. Am I right? 🙂 And after all, how could one resist such eyes… Let’s Be Honest. Most Dog Treats Are Junk Food for Dogs. Why is this? There are two main reasons: 1.  Just like humans, dogs like junk! Fat, salt, and sugar taste great and keep us coming back for more. 2. Grains, fat, and other fillers are cheaper for dog treat … Read more

This Dog Went Blind, So Her 3 Sisters Became Her Seeing Eye Siblings

When Margaux the Standard Poodle was 8-years-old she developed a mysterious auto-immune condition that cost her her vision and hearing. Her parents, Scott and Laura Jordan considered euthanasia until they noticed something amazing – Margaux’s 3 Poodle sisters immediately stepped up to become her guides. A photo posted by Poodle Margaux (@rootformargaux) on Sep 24, 2016 at 2:20pm PDT Margaux’s rare disease began with an infection on her paw that the Jordans mistook for a snake bite. A specialist in … Read more

5 Words You Should Teach Your Dog

When it comes to living with dogs, there are many different opinions on how to raise them, treat them, house them, and train them. Just like with children, everyone has a different way of “parenting” their pets. With that said, most agree that basic obedience training is essential for all dogs, regardless of age, size, or breed. In fact, many even agree that there are some basic commands that should be taught to all dogs, and we’d like to share … Read more

This Dog May Be Missing 2 Legs, But His Spirit Is Unbreakable

This will probably be the most inspiring story you’ll hear today, and possibly the most uplifting one you’ve heard in awhile! Duncan Lou is a Boxer whose hind legs had to be amputated, but amazingly, he manages to get around just fine. Despite being 2-legged, and even dealing with other life-threatening health issues, this “wonder dog” has a zest for life is absolutely incredible. Watch Duncan’s story below: Wow! This pup shows us how important it is to get the most out of … Read more

Abandoned Dog & Broken-Hearted Tough Guy Rescue Each Other

Imgur user Humdrumdergifan (we’ll call him OP for “original poster” from here forward) was the very portrait of a tough Texas male until a special dog came into his life and allowed him to express his softer side. When OP found out that a dog had been abandoned in an empty apartment when her owners were evicted, he immediately stepped up to adopt her. The pup had been alone without care for an entire week.   According to OP’s Imgur account, … Read more

UPDATE: Shelter Dog With Cancer Gets His Final Wish & Finds A Forever Home

UPDATE: Although his days were numbered, Wiffle Ball got one final wish this past December: he spent his last Christmas in a warm, loving home. “Wiffle Ball had an amazing Christmas at home with his family. He explored the house, made friends with everyone he met, had a dinner of roast and mashed potatoes, and spent his down time on his belly in full-out Superman pose in the doorway between the dining room and kitchen,” wrote the Richmond Animal League on … Read more

Dog Gets Bitten Protecting Toddler From Venomous Snake & Donations Pour In To Save His Life

Jo Shaw was in shock when she found her 3-year-old Boxer, Mack, lying paralyzed outside in their Melbourne yard. Soon, she realized what had happened. Her 2-year-old daughter, Carmen, had been playing nearby when their dog spotted a venomous tiger snake. Mack jumped into action to keep the snake away from his beloved toddler, who was jumping on a trampoline less than two meters away. Tiger snakes are native to Australia and their venom is highly potent, with a mortality … Read more

Shelter Employee Plans To Spend 12 Nights In The Dog Kennels This Christmas

Adrian Thompson, a volunteer for K9 Crusaders, will be spending his twelve days of Christmas in a dog kennel to raise awareness and much-needed financial donations for the charity. The 48-year-old will transform from a financial adviser by day to a human shelter pet by night. He will share his kennel with a different adoptable pup each evening from now until December 28. Just 2 days to go until the start of Adrian’s 12 Dogs of Xmas challenge to help … Read more

Veteran With PTSD Gets An Early Christmas Present When He’s Surprised With A Puppy

Marine veteran Peter Coukoulis of Tallahassee, Florida, has been suffering from PTSD since he returned home from deployment in Afghanistan three years ago. All the while, his mom, Dena, has been worried about the health of her 26-year-old son. “He doesn’t really sleep because when he does, he has nightmares about it all,” mom Dena told Daily Mail. “He can’t be in large crowds, he’s very emotional about his country and always says he feels that he should’ve done more.” That’s why … Read more

5 Things To Check Off Your List When Leaving Your Dog With A Sitter

As busy pet parents, we’re often traveling around and unable to take our pets along. For those times we’re leaving them behind in the care of someone we trust, it can be overwhelming making sure everything is in order and ready to go for our dogs. Do they have everything they need? Will they be comfortable? Does the pet sitter have the right information? When planning to leave your pup with a trusty friend or daycare, it’s helpful to have … Read more

Missing Dog Returns To Family 4lbs Heavier: “He Was Obviously Living The Life Of A Lord”

The Gallagher family of Lougher, Duleek in Ireland are speaking out about the importance of microchipping your pets after receiving a holiday surprise that made them “happier than any lottery winners.” After 6 long months, they were reunited with their missing dog Spot. If not for his microchip, that joyous day may never have come. Spot was welcomed into the Gallagher family 6 years ago as a companion to their 10-year-old German Shepherd, Dora. As is common in the Irish countryside, … Read more

Dog Shamelessly Tattles On Sibling When They Get Into Trouble

One of the best things about dogs is their unabashed honesty. Whether they’re showing us how much they love us or admitting to something “naughty” they did (as if we can get mad at those faces!), our canine companions simply cannot tell a lie! These two furry siblings look like they got into something, and the clues are irrefutable: from the stuffing strewn about the room to the guilty look in their eyes, they know they did something they weren’t supposed to. But … Read more

Another U.S. City Considers Banning The Sale Of Bred Animals In Pet Stores

Roseville, Minnesota is considering joining the roughly 200 other cities nationwide that have banned the sale of commercially bred animals in favor of promoting rescue pets. The debate was sparked when a federal animal inspector noted “sick dogs, hamsters missing eyes, and a decomposing hedgehog” at one of Roseville’s four pet shops earlier this year. The owner of HarMar Pet Shoppe, Gary Papineau, has responded to the accusations, saying that the deceased hedgehog was the size of a dime and easily … Read more

Top 10 Dog Names Of 2016

  When you meet a pet with a perfectly fitting name, you have to wonder: did her name shape her personality, or the other way around? Naming our pooches is usually one of the first things we do when we first adopt them–and sometimes it takes a lot of thought! Some people prefer short and sweet names while others like to bestow long, regal titles on their furry friends. But whatever you choose, you’re bound to come up with dozens of silly nicknames anyway, … Read more

People Across The World Send Headdresses To Help Cover Former Bait Dog’s Wounds

3-year-old Abigail’s abuse case has been described by Miami-Dade Animal Services as the worst they have ever seen. As a bait dog she suffered wounds to her head, neck and face as well as the loss of her right ear. Abigail is now recovering in comfort, but she still bears the scars of her past. In response to her story, supporters around the world have been sending heartfelt gifts of hats, headbands and bows. The sweet Pit Bull mix was … Read more

3 Tips For Taking Care Of Your Dog’s Ears

Ears are arguably one of the cutest features on our dogs, regardless of how big, small, flopping or bat-like they are. Since dogs use their ears so much to communicate, it can be endearing to see all of the different ways they move around. Just like us, though, their ears need some special care to keep infections and other ailments away. There’s nothing too complicated about caring for your dog’s ears, but it’s good to know some key tips on … Read more

3 Dangerous Dog Treat Ingredients You Should Always Avoid

I think we can all agree that we want what’s best for our dogs. Even the little stuff — think about how much time you spent deliberating about which bowl to get. Sure, it’s just for food and water, but if you’re like me, you didn’t just grab the first one you saw. You weighed the pros and cons, contemplated designs. All this for a bowl! Now think about the last time you bought treats for your canine companion. This … Read more

Firefighters Give Their All To Bring This Dog Back To Life

(Warning: the video below may be difficult to watch for some viewers.) This amazing video of a firefighter performing CPR on a dog – and bringing him back to life – has taken the internet by storm. In Romania, an apartment caught fire while its occupants were inside. When the dog was rescued from the blaze, he was unconscious due to smoke inhalation. Watch as this firefighter revives the lifeless dog: Thanks to the quick thinking of these heroes, the pup … Read more

BREAKING NEWS: Dog Slaughter & Butchering Is Banned In South Korea’s Largest Dog Meat Market

Animal activists and organizations around the world have been working tirelessly for years to put an end to the dog meat trade. The torturous and brutal practice of dog slaughter was brought to light with the emergence of the annual Yulin Dog Meat Festival in China. The realities of the dog meat trade are harsh, but impassioned animal lovers are finally being heard. From petitions that have circulated the internet and gained millions of signatures to rescue groups that are shutting down … Read more

Dog Abandoned During Snow Storm Shocks Rescuers By Revealing Her 4 Newborn Puppies

Depending on where you live, your city may have been hit with several inches of snow in the past 24 hours. One of those places was Muskegon, Michigan, where a poor pup with her newborn litter was – quite literally – left out in the cold. According to a Facebook post by local shelter Pound Buddies, they received an emergency call just after midnight about an abandoned dog who was wandering around in an empty lot. The caller said that the pup had been … Read more

3 Signs Your Pug Needs More Exercise

We all love our Pugs dearly, but sometimes our love comes with too many cookies and cuddles and not enough exercise. While you don’t want your Pug to overextend on exercise because they can overheat and have trouble breathing, you also want to make sure you are giving them enough activity – both physical and mental. Not sure if your Pug is getting enough? Here are 3 signs your Pug needs more exercise. #1 – Overweight Pugs are definitely prone … Read more

3 Tips To Getting Your Great Dane To Come When Called

One of the most frustrating things on Earth is a Great Dane that won’t come when called. As puppies, they follow us around and a solid “come” cue seems like the easiest thing in the world to teach. But as they get older, suddenly everything else is more interesting than you and your Dane is less inclined to listen to you when you call. And, sometimes, things we accidentally do as owners actually ruin the cue. If you are having … Read more

3 Tips To Getting Your Chihuahua To Come When Called

Having a solid recall is something all dog owners want. It saves time, frustration and can even save your Chihuahua’s life if they are headed toward danger. But it’s also one of the hardest behaviors to teach because we can accidentally make mistakes that poison our own training. If you are having trouble, try these 3 secrets to getting your Chihuahua to come when called. #1 – Don’t Call Your Chihuahua For Something He Hates Dogs learn by association. So … Read more

From The Vet: 3 Things You Should Know About Your Dog’s Butt

We all love our dogs from the tip of their nose to the tip of their tails, but dogs’ butts are not usually the topic of dinnertime conversation. A dog’s anus and the surrounding area (called the perineum) are not what we think of first when we think of our dog, but there are some important things that all dog owners need to know about their dog’s butt. Butt It’s About Multitasking A dog’s butt is more than just a … Read more

3 Tips To Getting Your Lab To Come When Called

Labrador Retrievers are known for being fairly easy to train, which makes the work enjoyable on both ends of the leash. However, a solid recall can be hard for any dog to master – especially a lively Lab that’s interested in the world. And it doesn’t help that we often poison our own training when it comes to the recall. Not intentionally, of course, but our mistakes can cause us frustration and confuse our Labs. If you are struggling, try … Read more

3 Great Ways to Strengthen Your Bond With Your Pug

The tenacious Pug is a breed of dog that quickly gets into your heart and soul. Their antics and companionship make them a dog anyone loves to have around. When you have a Pug, you want them to love you as much as you love them – which is a lot. You can help your Pug feel as strongly about you as you do him by working on your relationship. The following are 3 great ways to strengthen your bond … Read more

3 Signs Your Pug Is Overweight

Sometimes the love we show our Pugs comes in the form of yummy goodies we give them throughout the day. Unfortunately, this type of love can have adverse side effects, especially if our Pug is not getting enough exercise in addition to too many treats. Veterinarians recommend treats should only make up 10 percent of your dog’s diet. Your Pug is no exception to this rule – no matter what that sweet little face tries to tell you. If you are not … Read more

How To Teach Your Rottweiler To Stop Jumping On People

Rottweilers are big dogs and can cause serious injury when they jump on people, especially children and seniors. Not only that, but it can be a nuisance if you are trying to get in the door with your hands full or are all dressed up for a job interview. Having a Rottie that has nice manners when greeting will make everyone happy, but it can be tricky to teach. The following is an easy three-step method to teaching your Rottweiler … Read more

Founder Of Senior Dog Rescue Is Honored As A CNN Hero Of The Year

Since 2007, CNN has honored heroes and humanitarians making extraordinary changes within their communities. Although she was not this year’s winner, Sheri Franklin, founder of the senior dog rescue group Muttville, was honored in the Top 10 for her efforts to make the world a better place for older dogs. #CNNHeroes HAPPENING NOW!! Muttville founder Sherri Franklin is in New York with all the Top 10 CNN Heroes! “It’s an… Posted by Muttville Senior Dog Rescue on Saturday, December 10, 2016 … Read more

5 Questions To Ask Yourself Before Getting A Yorkie

Yorkshire Terriers are one of the most popular breeds in the United States, according to the American Kennel Club. This means you probably have friends or family with a Yorkie, and maybe that has made you think you want one, too. Their adorable expressions and strong personalities are definitely good at charming those around them. Adding a dog to your household is a long commitment – with a Yorkie, it could even be 15 or 16 years (or more)! So be … Read more

Firefighter Surprises Officer With Puppy After He Loses His Dog In A House Fire

Police officer Doug Armstead of Bluffton, South Carolina, suffered a tragedy on the first of December when his family’s house burned to the ground. Thankfully, he, his wife, and his five children were not in the house at the time; but sadly, their beloved dog Anni died in the fire.   Eric Swanson was one of the firefighters who arrived on the scene, along with his wife, Lottie Campenella, who’s on the Firefighter Assistance Support Team. Campenella watched as Armstead received the … Read more

3 Ways To Keep Your Yorkie Happy & Healthy

Your Yorkshire Terrier provides you with love, companionship, and an endless supply of humor with her quirky personality. And it’s only natural that you want to make sure you are giving her top-notch care in return. From good food to lots of love, we are sure yours is one spoiled Yorkie. But if you are looking for a few more ways to ensure she is getting the best care possible, the following are 3 ways to keep your Yorkie live … Read more

5 Questions To Ask Yourself Before Getting A Pug

Pugs are tenacious and oh so cute. Even just the way they walk can put a smile on your face and brighten your day. It’s hard not to want to have a Pug in your life – meet just one of these pups, and you’ll be hooked. But just because you love them does not mean your lifestyle is suitable for one. It’s a good idea to ask yourself the following 5 questions before getting a Pug. #1 – Can I … Read more

3 Ways To Keep Your Pug Happy & Healthy

Your Pug gives you unconditional love, constant amusement, and unwavering devotion. It’s no surprise that you want to do all you can to give him the best life ever. Fancy treats and that choice spot on the bed are important, but there are things you can do that will help your Pug even more by increasing their health and chances for a long life. The following are 3 great ways to keep your Pug happy and healthy. #1 – Routine … Read more

3 Tips To Getting Your Yorkie To Come When Called

Often little dogs don’t get the training larger dogs do because people feel they don’t “need” it. But training is good for your Yorkshire Terrier’s brain and will help tire them out just as much as exercising does. More than that, some training can even save your dog’s life. A solid recall is important for every Yorkie to have – it can prevent from running toward traffic or too close to a swimming pool. It can also save you a lot … Read more

5 Questions To Ask Yourself Before Getting A Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is one of the most popular breeds in the United States, ranking 9th based on registration numbers in the American Kennel Club. It’s not surprising – they are an intelligent, loyal and beautiful dog that is a pleasure to own. But, like all breeds, there are some drawbacks and things you should consider if you are thinking about adding one to your family. Ask yourself the following 5 questions before getting a Rottweiler to make sure yours would make … Read more

5 Signs Your Golden Retriever Is Stressed

Golden Retrievers are, for the most part, an easy-going breed. It’s why they make such great family dogs. But no matter how easy-going they are, all dogs become nervous or stressed at some point. It could be a thunder storm, a bath or a car ride. Regardless of what triggers them, how you deal with your Golden when they are stressed will have a huge impact on if your dog can get over their fears. But, in order do that, you … Read more

3 Tips To Getting Your Pug To Come When Called

Pugs are tenacious, independent dogs that have minds of their own. That is to say, if they want to wander next door to see what your neighbor is having for breakfast – they will! This independent streak makes for some pretty entertaining doggy moments, but it can also be dangerous. Having a solid recall can save your Pug’s life. Struggling with this seemingly easy behavior? Don’t worry, it’s  one of the most troublesome cues for dog owners. The following are … Read more

3 Things Your Yorkie Loves More Than Anything

If you are lucky enough to own a spirited Yorkshire Terrier, your life is indeed full. This funny, energetic little dog can fill a home with enough laughter and love to last many lifetimes. In return, it’s only natural that you would want your Yorkie to enjoy his life as much as possible. Providing him with the things he loves is one way to do that. While all dogs have different personalities, the following are 3 things most Yorkies love … Read more