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You Helped Many Rescue Dogs Experience Toys For The First Time!

By: Molly Weinfurter
Molly Weinfurter is a writer for iHeartDogs, and she’s passionate about helping animals in need. She volunteers for Bailing Out Benji and a local dog rescue.Read more
| October 26, 2023

Every time you buy items from the iHeartDogs store, part of that profit goes to Greater Good Charities. Greater Good Charities helps a variety of shelters and rescues through its GOODS Program, which donates essential supplies for the dogs awaiting adoption. Many people think of food and medications as the most important donations, but toys are also crucial for homeless dogs.

Rescue dog with toy

Paws Across Pittsburgh is one of the many organizations that benefit from the GOODS Program’s donations. In the past, most of the donations they received were what dog lovers considered “needed.” So, they received food and leashes but not many toys. To many dog lovers, toys are seen as a bonus supply to entertain dogs, but for dogs without a forever home, toys can be life-changing.

Many dogs that arrive at rescues and shelters are scared and shy, but toys help them come out of their shells and become more trusting. Dogs who regularly play with toys often have better odds of getting adopted because people love to see their playful personalities.

Rescue dog carrying toy donation

Toys are Essential for Dogs in Need

In addition to other essentials, Paws Across Pittsburgh gets toy donations from the GOODS Program. Those toys provide more than a fun pastime because they can be a positive resource for dogs of all breeds, ages, and personalities.

“Some of the dogs we bring in have never had a toy and don’t know what to do with them. The day they actually play with a toy is such a huge milestone and a wonderful feeling for the foster family,” Paws Across Pittsburgh wrote. “Toys help provide mental stimulation, help fight boredom, allow them appropriate chewing, and just let them learn how to be a happy, healthy, well-rounded dog.”

Two dogs with donated toys

All the toys and other supplies that are donated to Paws Across Pittsburgh can change the lives of the animals in their care. Shopping at the iHeartDogs store can help provide more donations to these furry friends. So, thank you to all the heroes who have purchased products to help dogs in need.

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The following products provide quality dog food for shelters and rescues, helping them reserve more of their precious funds for medical expenses, supplies, and spreading the word about their adoptable pups. Learn more.

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