John Travolta Adopts The Dog Jamie Lee Curtis Brought To The Oscars

There has been a lot of talk about the 2022 Oscars, but sadly, many people seemed to forget about a wonderful moment involving Jamie Lee Curtis. The actress came on stage for a Betty White tribute, and she had a tiny rescue dog named Mac & Cheese with her.

Since Betty White was a huge animal advocate, Curtis used that moment to encourage more people to adopt dogs in need like Mac & Cheese. But little did she know, someone had already fallen in love with the rescue pup while she was backstage. Sometimes you meet the perfect dog for you when you least expect it!

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A Heartfelt Oscars Moment

Curtis was proud to share kind words about the late Betty White. The iconic actress passed away shortly before her 100th birthday, but her legacy has lived on through animal welfare. Many people have donated to animals in need and adopted pets in her honor. So, Curtis talked about White’s love for rescue animals while holding Mac & Cheese on stage.

“Day in and day out for almost a century, she was a woman who cared so much for not just her two-legged friends but for animals just like this,” Curtis said. “So, the greatest gift you could give Betty White is to open your heart and your home and adopt a rescue dog just like Mac & Cheese from (the nonprofit organization) Paw Works.”

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Throughout the night, Curtis posted lots of photos of her holding Mac & Cheese. But at one point, she also showed a heartwarming picture of John Travolta cuddling with the tiny pup. He got to meet her shortly before he gave the award for best actor. Little did Curtis know that interaction would lead to a forever home for the dog.

Mac & Cheese Finds the Perfect Home!

A day after the Oscars aired, Curtis announced that Travolta and his son decided to adopt Mac & Cheese. She and Travolta both posted a photo of the pup with her new family. Curtis said this adoption is a perfect example of what White would’ve wanted.

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“I thought it was so beautiful to see him with her, and then today I found out that he and his son, Ben, have adopted beautiful little Mac & Cheese and are taking her home today. It is an emotional end and a perfect tribute to Betty White,” Curtis wrote on Instagram.

Mac & Cheese will join the two other pets in Travolta’s family: a Poodle mix named Jinx and a cat named Crystal. She is such a lucky pup, but there are still millions of homeless animals out there. So, if you’re looking to honor Betty White, consider adopting an animal in need. If you’re unable to do that, other methods like fostering, volunteering, donating, and spreading the word can all make a huge difference too!

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H/T: today.com
Featured Image: Instagram

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Dog Hugs Man Who Faced The Unknown To Rescue Him From Flood

After heavy storms passed through Alabama, intense flooding was left behind in some areas. While the water wasn’t deep enough to stop humans from escaping, it trapped some innocent animals. So, when an animal shelter director known as Bill Banks received a call about a dog trapped in the flooding, he didn’t hesitate to help.

Banks knew nothing about the dog or the floodwaters before entering the property. But like any true animal lover, he was willing to risk it all for an animal in distress. It was a risky situation, but he’s now being called a hero.

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Facing the Unknown

Bill Banks is the director at Dothan Animal Shelter, so he’s used to helping animals in need. He wasn’t about to let a dog suffer without trying to help. The dog’s owner was unavailable at the time of the flood, so Banks was the pup’s only hope.

Someone called the shelter for help after they spotted the dog treading water in a flooded area. The poor dog was trapped in a fenced-in space, so he couldn’t swim to shallow water. For humans, the water was about waist-high.

“Without knowing what might be in the waters or the demeanor of the dog, Director Banks waded through waist-high waters himself to free the dog and get it out of the flooding fenced area it was in,” the Dothan Police Department wrote on Facebook. “Director Banks’ selflessness and care for animals reflects greatly of himself, the Dothan Animal Shelter, and the City of Dothan.”

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Worth the Risk

Banks waded his way into the yard toward the fenced-in area to rescue the dog. He put his health and safety at risk due to not knowing the water conditions or the dog’s temperament. Luckily, photos from the rescue show that the dog seemed eager to be saved. One image showed the dog clinging to Banks as if to hug him.

“Go to work with Animal Services. ‘It will be great,’ they said,” Banks joked in a Facebook caption.

RELATED: Terrified Mastiff Stranded Upside Down In Tree For Days During Deadly Floods

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Now, the dog is safe because of Banks’ selfless act. The owner has since returned home and moved the dog to a different location where something like this won’t happen again.

Banks doesn’t blame the owners for what happened, but other animal lovers disagree. Many people believe the dog should be kept inside and not left unattended for so long. Yet, it’s difficult to know the dog’s whole situation based on this one story. What matters most is that he survived the flooding thanks to an incredible hero!

H/T: al.com
Featured Image: Facebook

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Dad Wears “Cone Of Shame” In Solidarity With Dog Recovering From Surgery

No dog likes wearing the post-surgery recovery collar, often referred to as “the cone of shame.” It keeps them from biting stitches and worsening wounds, but it also makes them look so sad and helpless.

A recent viral TikTok video shows the hilarious and adorable way one man tried to make his dog feel better about the cone: he wore his own cone in solidarity with the pup.

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Dog And Dad “Recover” Together

The video, posted by TikTok user “good.boy.Ollie,” sneaks up on the coned dog and man as they sit commiserating together on a couch, both wearing their cones of shame. “good.boy.Ollie” is actually a young woman named Alex posting videos of her dog, the titular Ollie. The man is her father.

The 7-year-old Labrador had a lump removed from his eyelid, which later resulted in the cone. According to Alex:

“He has healed well and had the all-clear, but needed to wear the cone to protect his eyelid whilst the stitches healed.”

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Naturally, when Ollie came home with his cone, the family couldn’t help but feel for him. As to how the idea of wearing his own cone came about, Alex said this about her dad:

“My dad’s the kind of dad who likes to make everyone laugh. I’m not sure if he put the cone on to make my family laugh, or genuinely to make Ollie feel better. Either way, Ollie seemed happier in his cone and it gave all of us a big laugh.”

@good.boy.ollie Is it just my dad?🤦🏼‍♀️😂 #dogsoftiktok #dadsanddogs #labrador #fyp ♬ Lonely – Zoe Wees

In an earlier video, Alex decorated Ollie’s cone to make it look less post-surgical. Ollie’s cone turned into flower petals, a french fry container, and even a classy martini glass.

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Ollie no longer has to wear the cone, but while he did, his family did everything they could to make him feel less sad about it! Follow Ollie, Alex, and her dad’s stories on Instagram or TikTok.

The Relationship Between A Reluctant Dad And The Family Dog

Commenters on the TikTok video were quick to affirm that the dads who didn’t necessarily want the dog often end up being the most obsessed. So many people have stories like this:

“[T]hat’s my dad he didn’t want a dog but [now] he’s his one and only.” – @margaretforrest123

“Yea we got a dog and my dad didn’t really want it now he says it his dog.” – @no.simp.gang

“So true! My father said he didn’t wanted a dog but we ended up having 2 dogs.” – @sharbeare

I guess dogs are just that good at charming even the biggest non-believers.

H/T: Newsweek
Featured Image: TikTok

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Blind Pit Bull ‘Ached’ To Be Saved, No One Showed But Then She Heard A Woman

This is the tale of a blind Pit Bull that was abandoned in the woods and yearned to be saved, but no one came. She almost gave up until one rescuer at Lucky Dog Refuge was able to entice her out of the thick woods with food. When she got up, they noticed every bone in her body. It was devastating.

 

 

Image Credit Source: The Dodo – Facebook Video

 

They picked the name “Halo” for her. The reason for choosing this name was . . .  Click Here To READ MORE of this story>>>

 

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Pit Bull Spending ‘Final Days’ In Comfort Held On As They Tried ‘1-Last Thing’

There is much in this world that we take for granted everyday. However, behind the things we pour love into, there is also much that we can give! This Pit Bull desperately needed love and care. When he got it he found not only strength but life again. Meet Saint, the Pit Bull, this is his story! Saint, the dog, was in such a poor condition that he couldn’t even stand up to go to the toilet. Saint was so frail that he could not even get up to use the restroom. When he was discovered, he had every kind of worm imaginable. He was so ill that his caregivers were prepared for his death. Saint wasn’t expected

 

Image/Story Credit Source: The Dodo Pittie Nation, Saint’s Story ( YouTube Video sourced)

 

 

He was found in a homeless encampment, rarely having anything to eat. He never had veterinary care. Heather, Saint’s foster mom, took him into her care after being found. Heather willingly stepped up knowing Saint would pass away soon in her care. She has a heart of gold!

 

 

Image/Story Credit Source: The Dodo Pittie Nation, Saint’s Story ( YouTube Video sourced)

 

 

Heather’s family was very supportive of her decision to. . .    Click Here To READ MORE of this story>>>

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RECALL: FDA Permanently Bans Pet Food Brand Due To Unsanitary Conditions

For the first time in history, a federal judge has permanently recalled a pet food company. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration ordered Bravo Packing, Inc. to stop manufacturing, distributing, and selling its products. This includes their Performance Dog and Ground Beef raw dog food packages.

This company is based in Carney’s Point, New Jersey, and they’ve already faced four recalls before this incident. The company failed to make necessary improvements following those recalls. Despite having a very similar name, Bravo Packing, Inc. has no relation to Bravo Pet Foods.

Why Was This Brand Permanently Recalled?

Bravo Packing, Inc. faced recalls in 2018, 2019, and 2021. After inspections of the New Jersey facility, samples tested positive for Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes. Products testing positive for those conditions can be dangerous for both humans and animals.

The FDA states that they found “grossly insanitary conditions” after inspections in 2019 and 2021. The company didn’t follow proper manufacturing processes. Even after receiving a warning letter from the FDA, the company did not improve the quality of its manufacturing facility. So, the FDA has no choice but to shut them down.

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“The FDA has taken this action to protect public health because, despite multiple inspections, notifications of violations, and recalls, this firm continued to operate under insanitary conditions and produce pet food contaminated with harmful bacteria. We will not tolerate firms that put people or animals at risk and will take enforcement actions when needed,” said Dr. Steven Solomon, director of FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine.

What Should Customers Do?

Customers who have purchased products from this brand should dispose of them immediately. Clean any surfaces that the product might have touched, such as counters, containers, and bowls. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling dog food.

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If you or your dog experience any unusual symptoms after coming into contact with this food, reach out to a medical professional right away. Dogs who ate the food could experience vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, fever, or a decreased appetite. Infected humans may face nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, severe headaches, fever, and abdominal pain.

“The food we give our pets should be safe for them to eat and safe for people to handle,” said Solomon.

Those negatively affected by a pet food product should also report a complaint to the FDA. This is true for any pet food, not just the ones in this recall. When it comes to the health and safety of our pets, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

H/T: fda.gov

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The 7 Best GPS And Tracking Collars For Dogs

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Every dog parent’s worst fear is their dog getting lost. After all, you can’t just phone your dog if he escapes the yard or gets off his leash. Fortunately, with today’s technology, you can outfit your pup with a GPS or tracking collar.

Are these collars higher on the price end? Yes, but you’re paying for peace of mind and your dog’s safety. That’s a worthy investment.

Even if they’re microchipped, finding a lost dog can be incredibly difficult. An effective GPS or tracking dog collar can help you locate an escape artist pup before it’s too late.

FAQs About GPS and Tracking Collars

How does the collar locate my dog?

Most of these collars connect to an app so you can receive information about your dog’s position. How you receive that information depends on the type of tracking collar you choose. GPS collars rely on satellites to send signals and work independently of cell service. Other tracking collars use cellular networks for low-power, long-distance communications. Some use Bluetooth/radio wave short-range capabilities.

Are all GPS and tracking collars basically the same?

No! What you need depends on many factors, including where you live, what breed of dog you have, and what you’re willing to spend. Some tracking systems use cellular networks to find your dog’s location, and others use satellites and radio signals. Some are primarily designed to warn you if your indoor pup found a hole in the backyard fence, and some are designed to locate a hunting dog that strayed too far. Depending on the collar you pick, you may or may not need to pay a subscription fee.

Will the device bother my dog?

Attachable GPS and tracking devices are small and unobtrusive, designed to be comfortably worn. Others are sturdy collars with the device embedded inside. Your dog likely won’t even notice it.

Selecting The Right GPS/Tracking Collar For Your Dog

Since there are so many options for GPS and tracking collars for dogs, here are some things to think about before you shop:

• Tracking Accuracy: When you’re investing in a tracking collar to keep tabs on your best pal, you want the most accurate readings possible. It’s important to note that some of these trackers update location information more frequently. Not all offer live tracking, which could be important if you’re dealing with an escape attempt.
• Range: Look for the collar’s range capabilities and whether or not it functions best in rural areas or city spaces. Some can detect your dog’s location from farther distances than others.
• Battery life: Depending on their communication technology, some collars/trackers may last longer than others before needing to be recharged. For a longer-lasting battery, you might also end up paying more.
• Activity and health monitoring: Many of these collars/attachments also monitor your dog’s health data in addition to location features. This isn’t essential, but it’s a nice option with several of these devices.
• Subscriptions: For trackers that use cellular networks, you’ll have to pay a monthly, annual, or multiple-year subscription fee. This is in addition to the cost of the device. Purely GPS/Bluetooth devices that don’t operate on cell networks won’t typically require this fee.

Considering all these factors, here are our picks for the best GPS and tracking collars for dogs and their most notable benefits.

Most Accurate Tracking

Garmin TT 15 Dog Device

• High sensitivity GPS with 9 mile range
• Tracks even in areas with poor cell service
• Includes extended range antenna
• Water-resistant design

AmazonChewy

Garmin is a highly trusted brand known for its navigation systems. While it skews higher on the price range, the Garmin TT 15 Dog Device is one of few trackers that doesn’t require a smartphone/an app or even internet access. It also has a wide tracking range of 9 miles.

Most User-Friendly

Whistle GO Explore

• Provides live location tracking
• Weekly health report indicates your pet’s licking, scratching, and sleeping habits
• Battery life can last up to 20 days
• Small device compatible with a wider variety of collars

 

AmazonChewy

The Whistle GO Explore consistently tops the lists of the best tracking collars and devices for dogs. It’s highly user-friendly, and it can be set up so that multiple people (additional family members, dog walkers, etc.) receive important alerts. Activating the Whistle GO Explore requires a subscription plan, and the three options will cost you between $6.95 and $9.95 per month.

Fastest Escape Alerts

Tractive LTE GPS Dog Tracker

• Track your dog in over 150 countries with an app for iOS and Android (or any web browser)
• Mark safe spaces with a virtual fence capability
• View your dog's daily travel history
• Monthly, 1 year, 2 year and 5 year plans available starting at $4.99 per month

AmazonChewy

The Tractive LTE GPS Dog Tracker uses AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile networks to track your dog. In addition to showing you where your dog is, it also lets you know where they’ve been since the tracker was booted up. That way, you can see if they’ve gone anywhere they shouldn’t have when you weren’t looking. Like many trackers, Tractive requires a subscription plan.

Best Advanced Features

FitBark GPS Dog Tracker

• Subscription plans are either monthly, 1, 2, or 3 years
• Tracks health info like sleep quality, calorie balance, and skin condition
• Compatible with any flat collar up to 1.5 inches wide

AmazonChewy

If you’re interested in a device that monitors your dog’s health data, the FitBark has what you need. Beyond serving as a GPS tracker, it will monitor your dog’s sleep patterns, skin condition, activity levels, and more. The biggest drawback is its relatively low battery life, but it’s great for providing health information in addition to location.

Most Durable Tracking Collar

SportDOG Brand TEK Series Dog Tracker

• Includes rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, lasting 24 hours per charge
• DryTek technology makes the device submersible up to 5 feet and the collar waterproof
• No subscription required

AmazonChewy

The SportDOG TEK Series 1.5 is highly durable, designed for your outdoorsy dog to wander in all types of weather and terrain. This system uses GPS satellites, not cell service, to track your dog up to 7 miles away. It could be the right choice for hikes or camping trips.

Best Battery Life

Fi Series 2 GPS Tracker Smart Dog Collar

• Collar sizes range from Small to XL
• Tracks your dog's activity level as well as their location
• Battery can last up to 3 months between charges
• Customizable LED light on the collar

Chewy

The Fi Series 2 Collar is a tracking device that requires infrequent charging. It has a few other nice features, like LED lights that illuminate your dog’s path at night and health activity monitoring.

Best Collar Alternative

Cube Real Time GPS Dog & Cat Tracker

• Connects to cellular networks, so it requires a monthly subscription
• Get alerts about location changes, speed increases, and low battery
• Rechargeable battery lasts 10 to 60 days
• Cube offers customer service and tech support

AmazonChewy

The Cube Real-Time GPS Tracker can be used to track more than just furry family members, but it works great for that purpose too. The company also provides tech support if you run into any issues. Because it connects to cellular networks, you’ll have to pay a subscription to use the Cube.

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15 Best Dog Breeds for First Time Owners

Thinking about getting your first dog? While it seems absurd to many of us, some people have never owned a dog before – and that’s okay! We welcome you to the dark side. While there is a lot of research that goes into general dog ownership, there are some breeds of dogs that are better suited for a first-timer than others.

While all dogs are individuals within a breed and can vary greatly in personalities and needs, it’s safe to say that your chances of finding a good novice dog are better within some breed limits than others. Remember that there is no bad dog breed, and if you’re set on a breed that’s not on this list, that’s perfectly fine! Any first time owner can be successful with any dog, so long as they’re committed. But for those looking for suggestions on breeds that might fit their newbie needs, you can use this list as a guideline!

#1 – Bichon Frise

Bichons are a very popular breed for both experienced and novice owners alike. It’s no surprise, they have excellent temperaments and make wonderful family companions. They are very low maintenance, requiring only regular grooming and a daily walk. They do need plenty of cuddles and love, however!

#2 – Maltese

Bred to be companion dogs, the Maltese makes a great addition to families. While these tiny dogs may be snappy or get injured by toddlers, they adore older kids. The Maltese gets by with short walks outside and brief runs inside your house.

#3 – Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Looking for a smaller breed? Cavaliers are adorable little couch potatoes that enjoy curling up and relaxing with you at any time of the day. They’re great for a first time owner because they’re relatively lazy dogs, although they do require regular grooming for their long coats. Cavaliers are extremely sweet and love being with their people wherever they go.

#4 – Golden Retriever

Goldens are one of the most popular breeds around because they’re such great dogs. They are perfect family companions, are relatively low maintenance, friendly with all children and adults. They love relaxing on the couch with you but are still active enough to keep up with the family. Golden Retrievers have wonderful temperaments and are easy to train, making them an excellent choice for the first time dog owner.

#5 – Greyhound

Another large breed, Greyhounds are actually a lot more apt to take over your couch space than you’d imagine. They are incredibly docile animals that love to sleep. Of course, they do need regular exercise, and they’d make great running companions. But Greyhounds are probably one of the most low-maintenance breeds around, and that does include the activity department!

#6 – Labrador Retriever

Just like his Golden Retriever cousin, Labs are excellent family companions. They are very easy to train but do require a bit more exercise than Goldens, but they are very social dogs and love being with their people. Labs are a great “take anywhere” dog, meaning they’ll sit with you outside a coffee shop, watch the kids at their baseball games, or keep you company on your 5k training!

#7 – Papillon

These cute little guys are great for someone looking for a low-maintenance, easy-going companion. They have great temperaments and love being with their people. Despite their size, they are very playful dogs and love being active – so don’t be surprised if your Papillon kicks butt on the agility field! Overall, these tiny guys carry a big personality and are great for novice owners.

#8 – Poodle

No matter the size, Poodles are great dogs for beginners. They have incredible temperaments and are probably one of the easiest dog breeds to train. They love being with their people and make excellent exercise partners, as well as snuggle buddies. Despite the regular grooming needed for these guys, Poodles are one of the few minimally shedding dog breeds!

#9 – Pug

Who doesn’t love these squishy faces? Pugs are great dogs for novice owners, as they are very low maintenance but still active enough to keep you on your toes. Pugs have wonderful personalities, and you’d be surprised to find them as hilarious little guys that will end up being the life of your party!

#10 – Shetland Sheepdog

While their coats might look intimidating to the first time owner, Shelties are very easy dogs to care for. They do require regular grooming, but they are great companions for everyone. Shelties are small dogs packed with a ton of personality, and they excel in many dog sports like agility, flyball, and obedience!

#11 – Whippet

Like Greyhounds, Whippets are fast dogs that also have a lazy side. These little canines are quiet and friendly around almost everyone they meet. Their thin coat is easy to maintain, but they may require a jacket during the winter months.

#12 – Shih Tzu

Despite needing regular trips to the groomer, this small breed is fairly easy to care for. Most Shih Tzus are friendly and loving toward humans. They’ll be content whether you want to play and explore or lounge on the couch. As long as you’re willing to be extra patient and repetitive with training, they’ll be loyal and obedient.

#13 – Boxer

If you’re looking for a family dog that loves to play, Boxers are perfect! It doesn’t take long for these large dogs to fall in love with their family members. They have silly personalities that all ages will adore. However, they need to go to a family that has an active lifestyle.

#14 – Great Dane

Don’t be intimidated by the Great Dane’s massive size. These gentle giants can be easy-going couch potatoes. They need enough space to stretch their legs, but they’re one of the best dog breeds for first time owners because they’re calm, patient, and adaptable. They also have minimal grooming needs.

#15 – Mixed Breed

Many people overlook mixed breed dogs at shelters, but they can make the best companions! They often gain the best qualities of their parent breeds, sometimes with fewer health problems. Plus, they have just as much love to give!

When it comes to getting a dog, personality matters much more than breed. So, visit a wide variety of dogs at local shelters and rescues to find one that gets along best with your family. It could be one of these purebreds, a mixed breed, or another dog not on this list. It’s up to you to decide which dog is perfect for your lifestyle.

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Dog Struggles In Rushing Waters For Hours As Heroes Jump Into Action

When a dog is in danger, most people want to come to the rescue. But in some scenarios, saving the dog only puts both of you at risk. During water rescues, officials urge the public to call for help instead of attempting the rescue themselves.

A dog got swept away by the rushing waters of the Los Angeles River, which put two people in danger as a result. It took at least two hours, but the fire department was able to save the dog and all the humans involved.

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Dog in Distress

It’s unclear how it happened, but the Los Angeles Fire Department received several reports of a woman and her dog trapped in the river. The dog had likely fallen in, so his owner went in after him. The dog’s owner, a 35-year-old woman, was rescued within a half hour, but the dog was reluctant to receive help.

As fire crews were trying to save the pooch, a man jumped into the water after the dog. He didn’t know the dog, but he wanted to help in any way possible. Unfortunately, the pup was so scared that he bit the man trying to rescue him. So, the man was forced to let go of the dog, sending the pup further down the river.

Since the man was now in danger, rescuers had to focus on saving him before returning to the dog. Even though the man had good intentions, he ended up becoming another victim who needed saving. Rescuers were able to lift the man to the shore using a helicopter.

YouTube

“We know that individual was well-intentioned as well as other people are obviously very concerned about that canine, you better believe we are too. But when civilians jump in who don’t have the proper personal protective equipment and training to effect a rescue, they often become patients themselves,” said Captain II Erik Scott.

Hours of Hard Work

Once the man was safe, firefighters returned to helping the dog. No matter how many times they tried to save the dog, the pup always fought back out of fear. The rescue team explained that issues like that are common when saving dogs, which makes it harder for them to help.

“The poor canine was very tired, very scared, and the more people were around, the more scared he got, and he did bite that well-intentioned 28-year-old male that was trying to help him, and that’s another reason we don’t want people jumping in for these canines because they’re obviously scared,” said Scott.

YouTube

RELATED: People Band Together To Save Animals During Catastrophic Hurricane Harvey

Firefighters refused to give up. After about two hours of trying to save the dog, they finally pulled him to safety. While incredibly anxious, the dog was unharmed. His owner was also okay, but the man who jumped in had to go to the hospital for minor injuries.

Keeping your dog away from fast-moving water is the best way to protect them, but if they happen to fall in, the best thing you can do is call for help. It’s tempting to jump in after them, but that could delay the rescue process because officials need to rescue humans before dogs in situations like this. So, keep that in mind if you and your pup are ever faced with a stressful situation like this one.

Watch the Incredible Rescue Here:

H/T: fox10phoenix.com
Featured Image: YouTube

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17 Best Small Dog Breeds For Families With Children

One of the greatest joys of childhood is growing up with a dog, and if you’re ready to give that dream to your kids, you might be asking yourself what breeds are the best small dogs for kids? 

As a parent, safety is one of your greatest concerns, and this must be taken into account when choosing what breed of dog fits with your family. Some dog breeds do not do well with children, especially very young ones.

But don’t worry! There are so many family-friendly dog breeds that make excellent companions for young kids. If you’re on the search for a gentle dog who’s tolerant of loud noises, messy rooms, and odd schedules, these breeds are for you.

But be warned, no dog is suitable for a child that hasn’t been taught how to interact with animals properly. Don’t forget, all dog and child interactions should be supervised.

We’ve put together a list of the best small dog breeds for families with children to help you find the right pup for your home!

Best Small Dogs for Kids 

#1 – Beagle

The Beagle is a small to medium-sized scent hound originally bred for hunting and is still a prized rabbiting dog today. Very gentle and even-tempered, Beagles are noted for making very poor guard dogs because they’re open to meeting anybody. These charming hounds make excellent companions for children.

#2 – Pug

The Pug has a goofy, sociable personality that makes him a wonderful family companion for adults and children alike. Although strong-willed and exuberant, they are typically very lazy dogs and require relatively minimal exercise.

#3 – Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This small toy spaniel is gentle, playful, and very affectionate towards their family and strangers alike. Cavis are small but hardy, adapting easily to all kinds of environments and situations. These silky-coated lovelies make excellent family companions, proving a suitable dog breed for those with small children.

#4 – Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Although this active and muscular bully breed may look intimidating to some, Staffordshire Bull Terriers are actually very social and loving dogs. Staffies are not well-suited for quiet, indoor families as the breed does best with plenty of exercise and fun. That said, they make wonderful companions for children and are extremely affectionate.

#5 – Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier, nicknamed the American Gentleman, is a true joy to have around for those who love a silly, sociable breed. Originally bred to be companion dogs, these gentlemen and gentlewomen dogs still excel at this job today. They are one of the best small breeds for kids, their temperaments making them well-suited for family life.

#6 – Border Terrier

Border Terriers are small terrier dogs originally bred for vermin and fox hunting. Today, they excel at a variety of dog sports and make wonderfully active companions. Although these wily terriers may chase cats and other small animals, Border Terriers are very even-tempered and make great companions for children.

#7 – Keeshond

Fluff is the name of the game when it comes to this family-friendly dog breed. The Keeshond is a medium-sized Spitz breed that is very intelligent and eager to please. Very affectionate and attached to their families, the Keeshond makes an excellent companion for children. These people-pleasing pups have done well in obedience, agility, and even guide dog work.

#8 – Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel, both the American and English varieties, are medium-sized bird hunting dogs that make excellent family companions. They are intelligent dogs who just love to lavish affection on their families. As the spaniel grows extremely attached to their families, these shiny beauties are great dogs for homes with children.

#9 – Havanese

The Havanese is a small but hardy dog who makes an ideal family companion. As very social dogs, they do not do well when left alone for extended periods. These little floofs may be a toy breed, but they are even-tempered and a well-suited small dog breed ideal for kids. 

#10 – Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

This Canadian retriever is a medium-sized dog originally used for hunting waterfowl. They are active and intelligent dogs requiring lots of play! This “Little Red Retrieving Machine” makes an excellent companion for families with children, assuming they get enough exercise. Eager to please, this red retriever performs well in a variety of dog sports.

#11 – Norfolk Terrier

The Norfolk Terrier is a small, adorable terrier and is considered to be one of the softest tempered in the group. They are very social dogs and an ideal small dog breed for kids. Plus, the Norfolk is the scruffiest little cutie ever! 

#12 – Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized Irish dog with a single-layered coat that rarely sheds, making them suitable for those with allergies. They are also very playful and friendly, making them excellent companion dogs for families with children. Kids will love snuggling this teddy bear dog! 

#13 – Maltese

Fluffy, fun, and family-friendly, the Maltese may look regal, but the “Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta” won’t mind getting their majestic fur tousled while playing with the kids. This gentle breed is an excellent choice of a small dog who will happily play with children.

#14 – Miniature Schnauzer

Just look at that sweet smile! The Miniature Schnauzer will love having fun with the family. You’ll probably find him acting as your gray shadow because these lovey dogs want to be by your side all the time. And when playtime is done, the mini Schnauzer will love some cuddles while you stroke his beard.

#15 – French Bulldog

The French Bulldog has it all! Pizazz, cutesy looks, brains, and a heart that outweighs their small, but muscular bodies. These adorable small dogs are full of love and don’t mind getting goofy with the youngsters. But don’t let the kids tease the Frenchie. Their feelings are easily hurt!

#16 – Bichon Frise

Don’t be fooled by the glamorous, curly coats of this breed. These cloud-like pups love to play and snuggle! They get along with just about everyone they meet, regardless of age. They’re gentle, affectionate, and always ready to explore new places with their humans. Plus, their low-shedding coats are perfect for children with allergies.

#17 – Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu puppies are often too small and delicate for young children, but adult Shih Tzus are charming and outgoing. Most of the time, these dogs are people-oriented and thrilled to spend time with loved ones. They get attached to their humans quickly and love to follow them around. They’re the perfect balance of playful and lazy, so they make great companions for both adults and children.

Among these family-friendly dogs, you’ll surely find the best small dog for your kids. But maybe you’re thinking a BIG dog would be ideal for your family. Check out these large breeds known for their excellence as family pups. Either way, small or large, once your new pooch comes home, let the magic of growing up with a dog begin!

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