Stray Pup Welcomes Rescuers with Cries of Joy

A stray pup named Ruby recently learned the hard way just how dangerous uncovered wells can be. Nobody knows exactly how she ended up at the bottom of the dark, dank hole in Udaipur, a city in India, but her luck changed when someone reached out to animal rescue group Animal Aid Unlimited. Rescuers arrived on the scene and Ruby greeted them with a chorus of welcoming cries.

Animal Aid Unlimited is a nonprofit in India whose work has touched the lives of countless animals in need. Their mission is in line with the thinking that we are all one and we all deserve love, compassion, and have a life that is valuable.

Our mission is dedicated to the day when all living beings are treated with compassion and love.

They provide rescue operations for “street animals,” sanctuary for strays that are too fragile for life on the streets, spay and neuter services to help control the animal population, and educational outreach to schools and shelters across India.

Image Animal Aid Unlimited Facebook

The work done by Animal Aid Unlimited and like organizations is of paramount importance in a country that has large scale problem with domesticated and wild animals. The stray dog population alone is cause for great concern in India as there are an estimated 35 million of them in the country and an estimated 20,000 cases of rabies each year. A full 36% of the total deaths from rabies worldwide occur in India alone. Education, population control, and sanctuary are all pivotal areas that will positively contribute to the situation.

Image Animal Aid Unlimited Facebook

Witness The Joy of These Dogs Being Rescued – 12 Powerful Pics

Ruby was incredibly fortunate. Not only did her fall not result in any broken limbs or other major injuries, she was spotted by a well-informed and caring human who knew just who to call to rescue her. If you feel compelled to help Animal Aid Unlimited save the lives of animals like Ruby, you can donate to their cause on their official website.

Featured Image Screen Shot Animal Aid Unlimited, India YouTube 

 

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Flea and Tick Season Has Arrived! Here’s How to Protect Your Pup

Smiling Dog: Gizmo

Dog's name and age: Gizmo, 7 years

Nicknames? Gizzy, Little Mo

Adoption Story:

Gizmo was brought north from a shelter in Kentucky as a puppy. He was seized in a hoarding case where he was sadly the only survivor from his litter. He was given the name Gizmo from the shelter and his family thought it was a perfect fit.

More Gizmo:

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Is Your Dog’s Breed Listed Here? Then Make Sure You Clean Their Ears WEEKLY

According to Nationwide Pet Insurance, ear infections were the top reason people visited a veterinarian in 2016. This painful condition could be alleviated if dog owners were more consistent about caring for their dog’s ears, such as frequent inspections, and weekly cleanings.

Which Dog Breeds Get The Most Ear Infections?

If your dog has floppy ears, in other words, the ear itself folds down over the ear canal, they are at a higher risk than other dogs for infections. The following breeds (and their mixes) are particularly prone to ear troubles:

• Doberman
• Labrador
• Golden Retriever
• Portugeuse Water Dog
• Poodle
• Schnauzer
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Basset Hound
• Bloodhound
• Afghan Hound
• Coonhound
• Springer Spaniel
• Cocker Spaniel
• Dachshund
• Shih Tzu
• Bullmastiff
• Beagle
• Newfoundland
• Saint Bernard
• Great Dane
• Weimaraners
• Mixes with any of the breeds above

How Regularly Should I Be Cleaning My Dog’s Ears?

But how often is best when it comes to cleaning your dog’s ears at home? Under-cleaning can allow infection causing yeast and bacteria to build up, while over-cleaning can strip away healthy wax and lead to irritation.

A healthy amount of wax in your dog’s ears actually helps lubricate and protect the delicate skin of the canals from infection. You want that healthy layer to remain, so cleanings should really only be performed when the ears are “dirty.”

The length of time it takes for a dog’s ears to get dirty depends on breed, coat, activity level, wax production, and even humidity. In other words, it varies for every dog. The veterinarians at Banfield recommend once monthly cleanings as a basic rule of thumb for dogs with “normal” ears, however those who swim, roll in the dirt, or have a predisposition to infections (like the breeds listed above) may need weekly or daily cleanings.

Check the ears each time you bathe your pup or after a vigorous play session like a trip to the dog park. A simple wipe of the outer ear and pinna (ear flap) is usually enough for healthy ears that have gotten a bit dirty. Apply a small amount of an appropriate, vet-approved cleanser to a cotton ball and simply swab the easy-to-reach outer folds of the ear. (we sell a veterinarian formulated ear cleanser that also gives back to shelter animals)

To determine if it is time for a good ear flushing, lift the pinna and look inside. Do you notice dirt, debris or excess brown buildup in the outer ear? If so, it may be time to break out the cleanser and do a more thorough job by cleaning out the L-shaped horizontal ear canal.

RELATED: Does Your Dog Have Constant Ear Infections? This Powerhouse Nutrient Can Help

When You Should NOT Clean Your Dog’s Ears

However, before you start scrubbing away, make sure that your pooch is not suffering from an ear infection. If you notice any of the following symptoms along with debris or discharge, do not attempt to clean the ears; consult your vet right away:

• Odor from the ears
• Puritic discharge (pus) or blood
• Excess scratching, pawing or rubbing at the ears
• Violent head shaking or “ear snapping”
• Redness and/or swelling of the pinna or ear canal
• Sensitivity or pain when ears are touched

It is important to make sure that your dog always has positive experiences when it comes to home care so that he or she will trust you with these treatments in the future. When in doubt, it’s best to check in with your vet.

Check out our favorite ear wipe brand on Amazon prime.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional. 

 

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Is Your Dog’s Breed On This List? Make Sure You’re Cleaning Their Ears Once a Week

 

According to Nationwide Pet Insurance, ear infections were the top reason people visited a veterinarian in 2016. This painful condition could be alleviated if dog owners were more consistent about caring for their dog’s ears, such as frequent inspections, and weekly cleanings.

Which Dog Breeds Get The Most Ear Infections?

If your dog has floppy ears, in other words, the ear itself folds down over the ear canal, they are at a higher risk than other dogs for infections. The following breeds (and their mixes) are particularly prone to ear troubles:

• Doberman
• Labrador
• Golden Retriever
• Portugeuse Water Dog
• Poodle
• Schnauzer
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Basset Hound
• Bloodhound
• Afghan Hound
• Coonhound
• Springer Spaniel
• Cocker Spaniel
• Dachshund
• Shih Tzu
• Bullmastiff
• Beagle
• Newfoundland
• Saint Bernard
• Great Dane
• Weimaraners
• Mixes with any of the breeds above

How Regularly Should I Be Cleaning My Dog’s Ears?

But how often is best when it comes to cleaning your dog’s ears at home? Under-cleaning can allow infection causing yeast and bacteria to build up, while over-cleaning can strip away healthy wax and lead to irritation.

A healthy amount of wax in your dog’s ears actually helps lubricate and protect the delicate skin of the canals from infection. You want that healthy layer to remain, so cleanings should really only be performed when the ears are “dirty.”

The length of time it takes for a dog’s ears to get dirty depends on breed, coat, activity level, wax production, and even humidity. In other words, it varies for every dog. The veterinarians at Banfield recommend once monthly cleanings as a basic rule of thumb for dogs with “normal” ears, however those who swim, roll in the dirt, or have a predisposition to infections (like the breeds listed above) may need weekly or daily cleanings.

Check the ears each time you bathe your pup or after a vigorous play session like a trip to the dog park. A simple wipe of the outer ear and pinna (ear flap) is usually enough for healthy ears that have gotten a bit dirty. Apply a small amount of an appropriate, vet-approved cleanser to a cotton ball and simply swab the easy-to-reach outer folds of the ear. (we sell a veterinarian formulated ear cleanser that also gives back to shelter animals)

To determine if it is time for a good ear flushing, lift the pinna and look inside. Do you notice dirt, debris or excess brown buildup in the outer ear? If so, it may be time to break out the cleanser and do a more thorough job by cleaning out the L-shaped horizontal ear canal.

RELATED: Does Your Dog Have Constant Ear Infections? This Powerhouse Nutrient Can Help

When You Should NOT Clean Your Dog’s Ears

However, before you start scrubbing away, make sure that your pooch is not suffering from an ear infection. If you notice any of the following symptoms along with debris or discharge, do not attempt to clean the ears; consult your vet right away:

• Odor from the ears
• Puritic discharge (pus) or blood
• Excess scratching, pawing or rubbing at the ears
• Violent head shaking or “ear snapping”
• Redness and/or swelling of the pinna or ear canal
• Sensitivity or pain when ears are touched

It is important to make sure that your dog always has positive experiences when it comes to home care so that he or she will trust you with these treatments in the future. When in doubt, it’s best to check in with your vet.

Check out our favorite ear wipe brand on Amazon prime.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional. 

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Is Your Dog Suffering from a Hot Spot? This $13 Amazon Prime Item Might Help

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, neck, hips and limbs. You might notice matted fur or hair loss around the area, along with scabbing and oozing. They’re more common in long-haired dogs in the summer, when the temperature and humidity get higher.

Symptoms of Hot Spots in Dogs

Watch out for these symptoms if you think your dog may be suffering from a hot spot:

– Itchy, painful patch of skin
– Continual chewing or licking at site
– Abnormal aggression (associated with painfulness of site)
– Possible depression (associated with painfulness of site)
– Inflammation, redness, and swelling in a localized patch of skin
– Crusted scabs or oozing sores
– Dry scaly skin
– Hair loss
– Moist, matted fur
– Foul odor from lesion

Causes of Hot Spots in Dogs

The hot spot is initially caused by your dog’s frequent fussing with the spot, perhaps due to one of the following reasons:

– Flea allergies
– Cuts or abrasions
– Ear infection/anal gland infection
– Foreign objects (splinters/thorns)
– Food allergies
– Matted fur Insect bites
– Chewing or licking due to stress or boredom

Bacteria grows with the help of heat and humidity, and gives your dog the inflamed, oozy spot.

Diagnosis of Hot Spots in Dogs

Hot spots are full of bacteria, painful and ugly. Cleaning it at home will help a bit, but proper treatment will require a trip to the vet.

Schedule an appointment as soon as possible (remember, these can get much bigger in just a few hours.) Your vet will conduct a physical exam to find out what caused your dog to start picking at the spot before the infection began. Let your vet know when you noticed symptoms, and anything unusual that might have led to the irritation so the vet can consider possible allergens or stressors.

To air it out and determine severity and size, your vet is likely to shave and clean the area. They may also take bacterial samples for diagnosis.

Treatment of Hot Spots in Dogs

Cleaning

Matted hair around the area will need to be shaved and the area cleaned. Remember, hot spots can cause your dog a lot of pain, and pain-related aggressiveness, so it’s best to allow a professional to do it. They can use a topical antiseptic to clean the spot, such as these popular VetWELL Chlorhexadine wipes on Amazon.

Treating Bacterial Infection

Topical or oral antibiotics will be prescribed to kill the bacteria in the wound, and may need to be taken for several weeks.

Treating Initial Irritation

Your vet will want to treat for whatever caused the initial irritation, be it allergies, fleas, anxiety, etc. They may suggest a change in diet, flea treatment, or exercise and play in the case of anxiety.

Medications for Pain and Inflammation

Antihistamines might be prescribed to reduce itchiness, and NSAIDS to reduce inflammation. Do not give your dog anything not approved by your vet.

Dietary supplements

Essential fatty acids may be suggested for pets prone to skin conditions.

Recovery of Hot Spots in Dogs

Depending on the severity, your vet may or may not want to see your dog for follow up appointments. Most hot spots clear up pretty quickly. A cone should be used to keep your dog from continuing to lick and chew the spot.

Regular grooming can prevent hot spots, but if your dog doesn’t get groomed regularly, clipping (or shaving, if appropriate for your dog’s coat) can also help prevent matting. Remember to keep your dog on a prescribed flea control program and maintain a stress free home.

You may not notice the spot healing for a week or two, but the medication is doing it’s job and fur should grow back in 3 – 4 weeks. In severe cases, scarring may be possible. Take your pet back to the vet if the hot spots continue.

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A Super Unique Father’s Day Gift Idea for the Dog Dad in Your Life

Are you stumped on what to give a special Pup Papa this year for Father’s Day? Does the father of your brood already have everything? Is he all tech-ed out, geared up, and well stocked on all the usual fair? If you’re looking for a unique, interesting, and informative gift for any dad in your life, consider gifting him an Insights Microbiome Kit from the folks that deliver fresh pet food to your door, Nom Nom Now. 

What’s a Microbiome Kit?

If your dude loves his dog and science, he is going to totally nerd out over the data he will soon be combing through about his dog’s microbiome. What’s a microbiome, you ask? It’s the environment inside your dog’s digestive system. It is made up of trillions of bacteria that are necessary for digestion and protect your pup from pathogens. In fact, microbiomes have a profound impact on overall health.

The Insights Microbiome Kit is a unique tool that provides an unprecedented look at your beloved pup from the inside out. The kit gives users a detailed analysis of the bacteria present in your dog’s microbiome and suggests ways to improve gut health.

 

Poop Czar and Director of Microbiology

Nom Nom Now employs Dr. Ryan Honaker, an expert in the field of gut microbiology, to lead cutting-edge research to better understand the microbiome of dogs and cats and its role in health, nutrition, and disease. Not only is he super qualified, experienced, and knowledgeable in this area of study, he is passionately interested in it. He didn’t take the title of Poop Czar for nothing! He represents the brains behind the microbiome research and analysis being conducted at Nom Nom Now.

Why Should I Better Understand my Pup’s Microbiome?

The Insights Microbiome Kit is a thoughtful gift for any pet parent who wants to know more about their pet’s health. The microbiome in humans and in pets can affect mood, skin health, weight, digestion, immunity, and much more.

There are many possibilities regarding the impact of microbiome tracking as a diagnosis for illnesses, and its manipulation by diet, prebiotics, and probiotics for treatment and prevention of a wide variety of diseases across multiple fields.

While the gut microbiota typically work to keep your dog healthy, the population may become imbalanced, a condition called dysbiosis. This imbalance often causes inflammation of the gastrointestinal lining, which can become a long-term problem. Chromic inflammation causes a host of health problems, including the possible development of cancer.

Learning how to address imbalances in the microbiome will lead to a healthier, happier, dog. Understanding your dog’s gut helps you inform their future, discover their unique needs, and restore balance to this critical environment.

Do you have pet insurance? Some policies pay for microbiome testing. Check out a list here.

How Does the Kit Work?

After your kit arrives you will take a stool sample and send it back to Nom Nom Now in the provided envelope. You will fill out a health assessment on your pup and register your sample. In 2-5 weeks, your insightful report will arrive providing an excellent baseline for gut health that can be tracked throughout a pet’s life.

The report will show you:

• The composition and diversity of the microorganisms living in your pup’s gut.
• The prevalence of particular bacteria to other healthy canines.
• Identified existing imbalances.
• Recommendations for expertly formulated pre- and probiotics
• Recommended changes in diet.

The field of study concerning the microbiome and its impact on health is an exciting and changing landscape. Nom Nom Now is at the forefront of that work in the pet health industry. Staffed by experts, they develop products based on research. Show that special Pup Papa in your life that you get the bond he has with his best friend. Give him the gift of knowing her all that much better. Get it today for a discounted price, exclusively for the iHeartDogs community.

 

 

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What Every Cat Owner Should Know about Cat Cancer

No cat owner wants to hear that their cat is sick or is diagnosed with an illness such as cat cancer. It can be devastating to hear the news and can affect the entire family. Obviously, our feline friends are an integral part of the family dynamic, and you just want to know that everything […]

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3 Ways Your Dog Asks For Help

Are you harming your dog by feeding them the wrong food?

 

We all love our dogs and many consider them our best friends. Many of us even treat them better than our own family members.

 

There are 3 dangerous ingredients that no dog should ever eat, and if you are giving them to your dog then you might be slowly harming it.

 

Click here to find out these harmful ingredients.

 

P.S. These 3 dangerous ingredients are in many common pet foods so click here to find out right now.  

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Unexpected Surgery and Treatment for Mecho

Mecho was enrolled in Trupanion as a young and full of energy puppy. No one ever knows what life has in store for you and this was so true with our girl, Mecho. On June 2, 2017, Mecho began showing signs of excessive drooling and not eating. We took her to a local emergency vet […]

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Animal Shelter Pet Adoption: Four Reasons to Adopt

If you’re in the market to bring home a new pet, there is most likely a resource available to you within your local community that can help with your needs. Fortunately, animal shelter pet adoption provides a chance for families to meet, greet, and take home a pet in need. In addition, animal shelters also […]

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Genetic Influence on Dog Ownership

Swedish twin study finds a connection

There have been many studies demonstrating the health and psychological benefits of having dogs, but it’s difficult to disentangle possible genetic factors that could be influencing the results. It is possible that people’s genetics affect their likelihood of having dogs and that those same genes are influencing their decision to welcome dogs into their lives. Twin studies are an important tool for determining the role that genetics plays in all sorts of aspects of human life, and separating the role of our genes from the role of our environment on who we are as people.

The key to this technique is that there are two types of twins and these two types share different amounts of genes in common. Monozygotic (identical) twins share 100 percent of their DNA with each other but dizygotic (fraternal) twins share an average of 50 percent of their genes with each other. If they are raised together, both types of twins grow up in essentially the same environment.

Tags: 

DNA/Genes

blog

science

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Pet Savings Account: What You Need to Know

As a new pet owner, it is hard to know how much your new furry friend is going to cost you. You can plan for items like food, bedding, and routine vaccinations. But how do you budget for medical issues you don’t see coming? Whether you have a baby pet or a senior, accidents can […]

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Puppy First Vet Visit: Questions to Ask

A new puppy in the home can prompt a lot of questions, especially if you are a new pet owner. Between puppy training and puppy socialization, there are quite a few new experiences for you and your furry friend. Naturally, every pet owner wants a successful and positive puppy first vet visit, but it can […]

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Healthy Dog Euthanized For Burial With Guardian

The law allows it, but few are comfortable with it

A Virginia woman requested that her dog be euthanized, cremated and buried with her when she died. At the time of her death, her dog—a Shih-Tzu named Emma—was perfectly healthy and well, creating a clash between moral and legal issues.

When a representative of the woman’s estate came to the shelter where Emma was being held, the staff there tried to persuade him not to euthanize her. They tried to encourage him to sign over any rights to her and allow her to be adopted by someone else. However, he refused and chose to follow the instructions in the deceased woman’s will. Emma was taken to a local veterinarian and euthanized.

Tags: 

lifestyle

life with dogs

law & politics

blog

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Texas Movie Theater Welcomes Dogs AND Offers Bottomless Wine

Another English Bulldog Dies at PetSmart Grooming. That’s 32 Deaths Since 2015!

Darren Harris, a 22 year old man from Yonkers, NY, had never had a dog before. His first was an English Bulldog named Enzo. He absolutely adored and loved him, looking at Enzo like a son. He took Enzo, just 10 months old, to the groomer at PetSmart in Pelham. About 30 minutes later he received a call from the store to “come quickly.” Shortly after he and his mother Tabitha Harris arrived on the scene, Enzo died before their eyes, breaking their hearts and leaving them desperate for answers.

PetSmart Says They Acted Appropriately

PetSmart groomers are allegedly trained to recognize signs of distress in the dogs entrusted to their care, particularly short snouted dogs like English Bulldogs. Dogs like English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, Boston Terriers are Brachycephalic breeds. These and any dog mixed with one of these breeds receive “specialized care” at PetSmart grooming salons.

This specialized care protocol includes:

• An enhanced Hands on Pet Assessment at check-in and check-out.
• An Express Groom requirement, meaning very minimal time in a kennel
• The use of harness-style methods, rather than leads around the neck.
• Pets are towel dried or hand-held drying is utilized, rather than kennel drying.
• No muzzles are to be used.

PetSmart says that they followed this procedure and as soon as Enzo showed signs of distress, the grooming was immediately stopped and Enzo was taken to the vet, located in the Banfield Pet Hospital inside the store. They say that they gave Enzo oxygen therapy, sedation, and CPR but the fact remains that Enzo died.

Screenshot Pix 11 YouTube

PetSmart appears to be hanging the blame on an existing kidney condition Enzo was previously diagnosed with by his primary care veterinarian. Dr. Richard Jakimer, the owner of Manor Veterinary Clinic in Pelham, NY, who diagnosed and cared for Enzo contends that is not the case.

He told Pix 11, “Kidney failure usually takes a long time. There are signs of illness. The dogs won’t walk, doesn’t want to eat, will vomit. Enzo was not exhibiting any of those signs. Kidney disease, especially in the state Enzo was in, would not lead to an acute death. It was pretty much incidental at the time.”

The Harris Family Has Huge Doubts

Without a necropsy (an autopsy of an animal) we will never for sure the cause of Enzo’s death, but the Harris family has serious doubts that PetSmart handled the situation appropriately. Tabitha Harris told Pix 11 that everyone she encountered, including the vet, seemed lost and didn’t seem to know what to do.

“Enzo was running back and forth because he was in such a panic because his throat was closing up on him,” Tabitha Harris said. “I don’t know how well equipped they are to deal with English Bulldogs.”

The Harris family is convinced that Enzo’s death was entirely avoidable and have filed a suit against them in small claims court.

Screenshot Pix 11 YouTube

PetSmart Has a Long List of Similar Complaints Against Them

An investigative report by NJ.com published last year shows a host of similar complaints against PetSmart. All told, from 2008-2018 there have been 47 dogs in 14 states that died during or shortly after being groomed at PetSmart stores. We aren’t talking about an isolated incident here. Not by a long shot. Interestingly, 32 of those cases occurred after the chain was bought out by a private equity firm in 2015.

Twenty of 47 deaths documented in the report were English Bulldogs, including Capone who went in to have his nail trims and died on the way home and Scruffles who became unresponsive during a grooming and died on the way to the emergency vet.

Our hearts go out to Enzo, the Harris family, and all of those who have suspiciously lost their dogs after a simple grooming service at PetSmart. We hope that the Harris family finds the answers they seek in their case against the retailer.

Featured Image Screenshot Pix 11 YouTube

 

 

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Shelter Adopts All But One Of Its 200 Animals – This Pup Needs a Home!

Trucker and State Troopers Save Lives of Dogs Thrown from Car on Interstate

A truck driver turned hero was driving along Interstate 81 on a cold winter’s day in upstate New York when he witnessed an unthinkably cruel and disgusting act. From the window of a rusted out Dodge Durango he saw someone throw two dogs to the side of the highway like trash. He immediately pulled over to render aid.

The pups turned out to be Beagle mixes, one an adult of 6-8 years old and the other an adolescent around 1 year old. The older dog was torn to bits, with a terrible leg injury and obvious points of pain all over his wrecked body. Thankfully, the younger dog only suffered a few abrasions when he met the cold, hard road.

Photo New York State Police via AP

State troopers were called to the scene and an officer trained with the K9 unit responded. He  wrapped the severely injured puppy in bandages to stop the bleeding and placed a splint on his badly hurt leg. The older pup stood by, gratefully receiving comfort and treats from his saviors.

The dogs were taken to the Broome County Humane Society where they were given medical attention, love, and names. The older was christened Trooper, after his State Trooper rescuer and fighting spirit. The younger was named Adam after the truck driver whose decision to pull over saved the both of them.

Photo New York State Police via AP

Amberly Ondria, shelter manager for the Broome County Humane Society, told the Associated Press of the severity of Trooper’s injuries. Due to the cruel act inflicted upon him, he suffered a compound fracture of his distal radius, broken ribs, contusions to his lungs and shoulder, and his leg was so severely injured that it had to be amputated.

Adoption Applications Flooded in for the Pair

After sufficient recovery time with Adam at the Humane Society Shelter and Trooper with a foster family, the pair were opened up for adoption. As you can imagine, applications flooded in with over 100 received in all. In a 12 News exclusive, the Humane Society shared that the pair were being adopted by a couple in Earlville, NY named Connie and Roger. The pups’ new mama Connie told 12 News WBNG “They’re full of energy and you would never think that something this tragic happened to them,” said Connie.

Screenshot 12 News WBNG

The perpetrator of this heinous act was never brought to justice but we hope he or she never has the opportunity to feel the love and adoration of a dog again. They certainly don’t deserve the devotion. For Trooper and Adam, all is well that ends well and we hope they live a long, happy, love filled life in their forever home.

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I Switched My Dogs From “Healthy” Kibble to Fresh Food For 30 Days To See What The Hype Was About – Here’s What Happened

Dog “Bounty Hunter” Works Tirelessly to Reunite Dogs to Their Humans

It is almost unthinkable to consider what would happen if your dog went missing. The pain is immense. One York, Pennsylvania man is making it his mission to erase the pain and reunite families and their dogs.

A superhero

Ryan Bulson spends his nights and weekends helping people find their missing dogs. No, it’s not his job. He helps others out of the kindness of his heart. He told WQAD-TV:

“The feeling you get when you return that dog to that owner. Or you call that owner and say, ‘I have your dog.’ It’s a feeling you’ll never forget.”

Eleven years ago Bulson volunteered with a German Shepard rescue group. When he heard one of the adopted pups went missing, he wanted to help. Bulson successfully found the pup and a new passion was born.

Three years after that initial rescue, Bulson went off on his own. His mission: to reunite pups and families. For free. Yes, you read that right. There is no cost for Bulson’s services. He said, “I want people to know that there [are] people out there that they can turn to that will help.”

His mission

It takes a lot of effort to become a successful dog “bounty hunter”. Note: Bulson has been nicknamed a dog bounty hunter, but, of course, he does not ask for anything in return for her services. The nickname refers to Bulson’s superior tracking skills.

Bulson worked with professional dog trainers to learn how different breeds and personalities think and act. He knows to pay close attention to dogs’ body language in photos and videos for clues as to how they might act on their own. Bulson regularly refines his methods. Every rescue is different, customized to the dog who is missing.

Here is one remarkable tale of rescue. Beth and Orlando Ibanez lost their pug, Mia. Bulson studied her behaviors and patterns caught on video. Then he made an educated guess as to where Mia would reappear. Bulson was right. He caught her in ten days by using a remote-close “dog-pen trap”.

Bulson frequently finds dogs quickly. However, one German Shepherd took six months to locate. He typically relies on cameras to track a missing dog, but this pup managed to evade them. So, Bulson started spreading the word. Eventually, a woman mentioned spotting the pup. When Bulson returned her to her mother, the woman was elated.

“She literally hit the ground. Literally fell to the ground in tears. That’s a feeling that you’ll never experience again.”

We are astounded by Bulson’s compassion. He is truly a hero! Learn about this phenomenal, generous man in the video below.

H/T Liftable via The Western Journal
Featured Image Fox 43

The post Dog “Bounty Hunter” Works Tirelessly to Reunite Dogs to Their Humans appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

from iHeartDogs.com http://bit.ly/30GRpGV http://bit.ly/2HAMsrF

22 Dogs Rescued from Dismal Fate at Chinese Slaughterhouse

Their captors doomed them to an unthinkable fate…and then…they were rescued. The Humane Society International’s Chinese partner raided a slaughterhouse housing 22 dogs. The workers saved the dogs from becoming meat for a Shanghai restaurant.

The timing of the rescue was eerie. Rescuers saved the dogs from becoming meat for a restaurant located less than 12 miles from the venue of the 2019 World Dog Show.

Thankfully, the dogs survived long enough not to meet this terrible future. Rescuers brought the dogs to a place where they could live their lives without the fear of slaughter.

We are so thankful these dogs were rescued. Do you want to help? Join the International Humane Society’s call for Premier Li Keqiang, to put an end to the dog and cat meat trade. Read the letter to the Premier and add your name to this petition.

Meet the adorable dogs that got a second chance at life below.

H/T I Love My Dog So Much
Featured Image: The Humane Society of the United States YouTube

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from iHeartDogs.com http://bit.ly/2VN8GL1 http://bit.ly/2YPiPsB

Abandoned Boxer Rescued After Being Found Chained to Lamppost

Sad Pup Was Returned To Shelter After Adoption, But He Never Gave Up Hope

The saying goes, “patience is a virtue.” For one dog, it took more than patience to survive his stint at a shelter in North Fork, New York.

Unfortunately, the pup named Gio struggled to adapt to shelter life. He lost weight and often paced back and forth. Gio just wanted a human to call his own.

The pup returned to a shelter after a bad adoption experience. According to Gabrielle Stroup of the North Fork Animal Welfare League in Peconic, “He was adopted and then sadly ended up back at the shelter when an older dog in the home would not accept him. [Gio] is not doing well at the shelter at all. He just wants a person.”

Thankfully, some local attention helped Gio find a forever home. Two days after his story ran in Patch, he was adopted.

In the video below, Gio and his human play together. It looks like a match made in heaven to us!

H/T Patch
Featured Image Southold Animal Shelther

The post Sad Pup Was Returned To Shelter After Adoption, But He Never Gave Up Hope appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

from iHeartDogs.com http://bit.ly/2VMKZT9 http://bit.ly/2YQKxoX

Smiling Dog: Rosie

Dog's name and age: Rosie, 2 years

Nicknames: Rosie Posie

Miniature schnauzer Rosie loves being active whether that's walking, swimming, retrieving or working through agility trials. Her other love is sleeping between these activities! She loves to be with her people is by their side most of the day. Rosie helps her people appreciate the small things in life and her good humor lifts them up when they need need it most.

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smiling dogs

from The Bark http://bit.ly/2YIqicN http://bit.ly/2W0FNzT

Given Ultimatum – ‘It’s Me Or The Dogs’ – Dog Rescuer Ends 25-Year Marriage With Her Husband

Liz Haslam’s life has always revolved around dogs. Growing up, her mother bred West Highland Terriers, and her father owned an animal food business. As she got older, she knew her home wouldn’t be complete without the sound of paws padding down the hall, and she eventually found her passion working with rescue dogs.

Unfortunately, after years of living in a home filled with pups, Liz’s husband wanted to take a break from rescuing. When he gave her the ultimatum of, “it’s me or the dogs,” Liz knew what she had to do.

Family portrait!
Liz Haslam with some of her bullies…
It’s only 5 but getting 5 to pose is hard enough!
❤🐶❤🐶❤🐶❤🐶 pic.twitter.com/21lU1fGAYq

— Bedsforbullies (@bedsforbullies) June 4, 2018

After a 25-year relationship, Liz’s husband packed his bags and left. Liz told Express.co.uk,

“He’d got to the point where he’d had enough and wanted to slow down. But I wasn’t prepared to give it up. So he decided to go.”

Liz and her husband married in 1991 and moved to a home in Suffolk seven years ago. Determined to make caring for dogs a big part of her life, Liz decided to use their half-acre of land to start a dog boarding business. That idea eventually evolved, and she’s now the proud owner of Bedsforbullies, a sanctuary for rescued Bull Terriers.

Liz takes in as many rescue dogs as she can and does whatever it takes to help them find better lives. She fosters the dogs with nowhere else to go and keeps them healthy and happy while they wait for forever families to finally find them.

Can you give a desperate dog a home for a time? We Urgently need fosters PLEASE contact us! http://bit.ly/30DFMRd

Posted by Bedsforbullies dogs ready for their forever home on Monday, October 21, 2013

There’s a lot of joy and reward that comes with running an animal rescue, but it isn’t all tail wags and belly rubs. Liz told reporters that she doesn’t get days off, and she’s usually on her feet until 11:30 every night. It’s hard work caring for a large pack of rescue dogs, but Liz sees it as her responsibility. She said,

“I took the dogs in, I can’t just stop.”

When her husband left, Liz knew she made the right decision. The former couple hasn’t spoken in the year and half since the ultimatum, and in that time, Liz has taken in even more dogs. Her pack is always growing, and she often brings in dogs that need special homes or came to her badly injured or mistreated.

There’s Shelby, a Bull Terrier that struggles to trust men and is also deaf, and Ted, a 10-year-old senior that prefers to be the only pet in the house. There are several dogs currently looking for new homes, and Liz is determined to help them even if it means doing it without her husband.

Soon it might also mean doing it without a place to call home. Bedsforbullies recently received notice from their landlord that the land where Liz and the dogs live will soon be sold with plans to redevelop the property. The Beds for Bullies team is scrambling to find a new place where the dogs can receive specialized care. They’ve started a GoFundMe page to help the nonprofit with relocation costs.

If you live in the UK and are interested in giving one of the Bedsforbullies dogs a good home, check out their Facebook page.

Do you think she made the right decision?

h/t: Express.co.uk

Feature Image: Screen shot / Daily Express via Facebook

The post Given Ultimatum – ‘It’s Me Or The Dogs’ – Dog Rescuer Ends 25-Year Marriage With Her Husband appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

from iHeartDogs.com http://bit.ly/2VQwbTG http://bit.ly/30xSuAS

Given Ultimatum – ‘It’s Me Or The Dogs’ – Dog Rescuer Ends 25-Year Marriage With Her Husband

Liz Haslam’s life has always revolved around dogs. Growing up, her mother bred West Highland Terriers, and her father owned an animal food business. As she got older, she knew her home wouldn’t be complete without the sound of paws padding down the hall, and she eventually found her passion working with rescue dogs.

Unfortunately, after years of living in a home filled with pups, Liz’s husband wanted to take a break from rescuing. When he gave her the ultimatum of, “it’s me or the dogs,” Liz knew what she had to do.

Family portrait!
Liz Haslam with some of her bullies…
It’s only 5 but getting 5 to pose is hard enough!
❤🐶❤🐶❤🐶❤🐶 pic.twitter.com/21lU1fGAYq

— Bedsforbullies (@bedsforbullies) June 4, 2018

After a 25-year relationship, Liz’s husband packed his bags and left. Liz told Express.co.uk,

“He’d got to the point where he’d had enough and wanted to slow down. But I wasn’t prepared to give it up. So he decided to go.”

Liz and her husband married in 1991 and moved to a home in Suffolk seven years ago. Determined to make caring for dogs a big part of her life, Liz decided to use their half-acre of land to start a dog boarding business. That idea eventually evolved, and she’s now the proud owner of Bedsforbullies, a sanctuary for rescued Bull Terriers.

Liz takes in as many rescue dogs as she can and does whatever it takes to help them find better lives. She fosters the dogs with nowhere else to go and keeps them healthy and happy while they wait for forever families to finally find them.

Can you give a desperate dog a home for a time? We Urgently need fosters PLEASE contact us! http://bit.ly/30DFMRd

Posted by Bedsforbullies dogs ready for their forever home on Monday, October 21, 2013

There’s a lot of joy and reward that comes with running an animal rescue, but it isn’t all tail wags and belly rubs. Liz told reporters that she doesn’t get days off, and she’s usually on her feet until 11:30 every night. It’s hard work caring for a large pack of rescue dogs, but Liz sees it as her responsibility. She said,

“I took the dogs in, I can’t just stop.”

When her husband left, Liz knew she made the right decision. The former couple hasn’t spoken in the year and half since the ultimatum, and in that time, Liz has taken in even more dogs. Her pack is always growing, and she often brings in dogs that need special homes or came to her badly injured or mistreated.

There’s Shelby, a Bull Terrier that struggles to trust men and is also deaf, and Ted, a 10-year-old senior that prefers to be the only pet in the house. There are several dogs currently looking for new homes, and Liz is determined to help them even if it means doing it without her husband.

Soon it might also mean doing it without a place to call home. Bedsforbullies recently received notice from their landlord that the land where Liz and the dogs live will soon be sold with plans to redevelop the property. The Beds for Bullies team is scrambling to find a new place where the dogs can receive specialized care. They’ve started a GoFundMe page to help the nonprofit with relocation costs.

If you live in the UK and are interested in giving one of the Bedsforbullies dogs a good home, check out their Facebook page.

Do you think she made the right decision?

h/t: Express.co.uk

Feature Image: Screen shot / Daily Express via Facebook

The post Given Ultimatum – ‘It’s Me Or The Dogs’ – Dog Rescuer Ends 25-Year Marriage With Her Husband appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

from iHeartDogs.com http://bit.ly/2VNwDC2 http://bit.ly/30xSuAS

BREAKING: FDA Announces Expanded List of Recalled Hill’s Prescription Diet & Science Diet Dog Food

05/22/2019 – UPDATE

Once again, Hill’s Pet Nutrition is expanding the list of its canned dog food found to contain elevated levels of vitamin D. According to a company statement made by Hill’s, this update includes only one new date code that was associated with a SKU that was already included in the previous recall. This new list came from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration announcement made on May 20, 2019.

Here is the latest list of Hill’s Pet Nutrition foods that are affected.

 

UPDATE: Hill’s Pet Nutrition has announced that it is voluntarily expanding a recall of its canned dog food due to the elevated levels of vitamin D previously found.

The following products and lot numbers are affected. If you have any of these, stop feeding them immediately and return them for a full refund.

Hill’s Pet Nutrition and Science Diet has voluntarily recalled select canned dog food products due to potentially elevated levels of vitamin D.

While vitamin D is essential for dogs, consuming elevated levels can lead to potential health issues such as vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, excessive drooling, and weight loss. Vitamin D, when consumed at extremely high levels, can lead to renal dysfunction.

Pet parents with dogs who have consumed any of the products listed below and are exhibiting any of these signs should contact their veterinarian. In most cases, complete recovery is expected after discontinuation of feeding.

In the United States, the affected canned dog foods were distributed through retail pet stores and veterinary clinics nationwide. No dry foods, cat foods, or treats are affected.

The Affected Foods

Which Lot Numbers Are Affected?

 

Important Message from Hills

Hill’s Pet Nutrition learned of the potential for elevated vitamin D levels in some of our canned dog foods after receiving a complaint in the United States about a dog exhibiting signs of elevated vitamin D levels.

Our investigation confirmed elevated levels of vitamin D due to a supplier error.

We care deeply about all pets and are committed to providing pet parents with safe and high quality products.

Hill’s has identified and isolated the error and, to prevent this from happening again, we have required our supplier to implement additional quality testing prior to their release of ingredients.

In addition to our existing safety processes, we are adding our own further testing of incoming ingredients.

This voluntary recall only impacts canned dog food and primarily in the United States.

It is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

For further information, please contact Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. at 1-800-445-5777 Monday-Friday during the hours of 9am-5pm (CST) or at contactus@hillspet.com. Information can also be found at www.hillspet.com/productlist

Please share this recall notice!

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After Unthinkable Neglect This Injured, Sick Dog Was Saved By A Good Samaritan

See The Amazing Transformation Of This Sick, Abandoned Dog That Was Set To Be Euthanized

Military Dog Saves Soldier On The Battlefield – Soldier Pays Him Back In Kindest Way

Parkland Therapy Dogs Appear In Yearbook

They take their rightful place in the school’s memories

School yearbooks help us remember the events and activities of the year as well as all of the members of the community—teachers, staff, fellow students and others. The “others” in this year’s edition of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School yearbook include 14 therapy dogs. These trained dogs first showed up the day the students returned to school following a mass shooting in February 2018, and have brought comfort and happiness to this school rocked by tragedy.

The yearbook staff got the idea to devote a page of their yearbook to these therapy dogs when a dog belonging to the school’s media specialist was photographed on picture day. On the day of make-up pictures, the therapy dogs were each photographed so that their portraits could be included in the annual publication.

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work of dogs

blog

from The Bark http://bit.ly/2X8hU6h http://bit.ly/2EqsFJG

Becoming a Dog Person

You don’t even want a dog. You come from a long line of cat people, and you intend to stay that way. Then out of the woods scrambles shy, scrappy Clover. You shoo him off, but he runs circles around you. For months, you deny he’s been dumped and you search for the home he abandoned. For weeks, you encourage others to take him. Meanwhile, you’ve given him a bath and a name, ordered a case of chicken, and watched him settle onto the mat outside your door every night. After countless walks, his joy becomes your joy. His presence at your side in the garden, his insistence that you stop and give him a belly rub, his fierce loyalty, become the fabric of your life, and there’s no way you’re going back. (How did you live without a dog before?) When at last you admit he’s yours, your inner German housewife insists, There’s no way he’s coming inside. But he squeezes in, and he exudes such coziness and security that the extra sweeping of dirt and fur seems a worthy price.

Tags: 

literature

endpiece

humor

from The Bark http://bit.ly/2X8hNrn http://bit.ly/2EqcT1u