8 liquids that dogs should avoid

Your __dog looks at his water bowl then looks at you. Is it your imagination or is he bored with the same old H20?

Before you start hunting around the kitchen looking for something more interesting to spice up his beverage repertoire, here's a look at some common household drinks and liquids and what the experts say about how safe they are for dogs.

Milk: You always see images of kittens lapping up milk, so why not puppies? But dogs (just like cats) can be lactose intolerant, says the American Kennel Club, which means their bodies have a tough time digesting lactose, the sugar in milk. The unpleasant results can include diarrhea, vomiting, gassiness and loose stools. If you try a little bit of milk and your __dog doesn't have any negative symptoms, it's OK to give a couple of tablespoons occasionally as a treat. But watch your dog's reaction and make sure you don't give too much too often. Milk is high in fat and natural sugars, points out the AKC. If your dog has too much fat or sugar in his diet, it can lead to serious issues like obesity and pancreatitis.

Alcohol: Some people think it's funny to give their dog beer, wine or other alcoholic beverages, but there's nothing humorous about it. Alcohol is toxic to dogs. It can cause "vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, tremors, abnormal blood acidity, coma and even death," warns the Animal Poison Control Center of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (APCA). Bottom line, keep it away from your dog.

The caffeine in coffee can cause problems for dogs. (Photo: Jean C Hebert/Shutterstock)

Coffee: It's the caffeine in your morning cup of joe that can be dangerous for your furry BFF. Dogs are more sensitive to caffeine that people are, according to the Pet Poison Helpline. Getting a sip or two out of your cup likely won't do much harm, but any more than that (or eating coffee grounds) can be life-threatening. According to the ASPCA, the worrisome substances are methylxanthines, which are found in cacao seeds, the fruit of the plant used to make coffee. Too much caffeine can lead to vomiting and diarrhea, hyperactivity, a racing heart, panting, excessive thirst and urination, tremors, seizures and possibly even death.

Tea: Like coffee, tea can contain caffeine that can be harmful to your pet in anything more than very small doses. It's best to keep your tea away from your pup.

Soda: Again, it's the caffeine in soda that can be dangerous to pets. If your dog happens to lick up a few spilled drops of your cola off the floor, it's likely no reason to panic. But definitely don't fill up his bowl with your favorite soda, thinking he needs a treat.

Fruit and vegetable juice: There are many fruits and vegetables that are good for your dog, and some that aren't. For example, always steer clear of avocados, grapes and raisins. Juice often has added sugar, so if you want to give your pup something fruity, why not give him actual pieces of apples, strawberries or carrots instead of the liquid version?

Your dog only needs to drink water, even after a tough workout. (Photo: krushelss/Shutterstock)

Sports drinks: After you and your dog take a grueling run or go on a hike, there's no reason to offer your workout buddy a swig of your Gatorade. Dogs need lots of water, especially when they're exerting themselves, but they don't need the extra sodium, electrolytes or vitamins that come with sports drinks, according to "Applied Veterinary Clinical Nutrition." However, if a dog has vomiting and diarrhea, sometimes veterinarians will suggest offering small amounts of sports drinks to prevent dehydration. Before giving the drink to your pet, give your vet a quick call to get her thoughts and ask how much to offer. When your pet feels better, go back to offering him lots of clean, fresh water.

Coconut milk and water: Some people swear by topical coconut oil to help with skin issues like itchiness and hot spots. But when it comes to actually drinking coconut milk or coconut water, the experts are divided. The AKC says both are safe for dogs; just make sure to keep your pet away from the coconut shell, which is rough and can become lodged in his throat. The ASPCA, however, says the liquids are OK only in small amounts. Give your pet too much coconut flesh or milk and you may end up dealing with loose stools, diarrhea or stomach upset. And they recommend avoiding coconut water because it's high in potassium, which can cause health issues. You may want to ask your vet to weigh in on this one.

The no-way, no-how category

Since we're talking about safety, let's veer off the theme of human drinks for a quick PSA: Here are some household liquids your dog should never drink.

It's a good idea to keep your dog out of the garage so he doesn't sniff around any antifreeze drips or containers. (Photo: Chonlawut/Shutterstock)

Antifreeze: Ethylene glycol, the main ingredient in many antifreeze brands, smells and tastes sweet, making it incredibly tempting for dogs (and kids) to want to sample. Keep any antifreeze tightly sealed and way out of reach, and don't let your dog roam unsupervised in the garage or around roads or driveways, suggest the Humane Society of the United States. A few years ago, manufacturers started adding an agent to antifreeze to make it taste bitter, but that doesn't keep all dogs away. Try to choose antifreeze with propylene glycol instead of ethylene glycol; it's safer, but still not risk-free. And know that some paint, cosmetics and even snow globes can contain ethylene glycol.

Other household liquids: There's likely little chance that your dog is going to seek out and drink things like isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol, bleach or household cleaners. But to be on the safe side, keep those things out of your pet's reach, just like you would keep them away from your child. If you ever think that your pet has gotten into something he shouldn't have, make a quick call to your vet.

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Mary Jo DiLonardo writes about everything from health to parenting — and anything that helps explain why her dog does what he does.

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Nothing gets past this feline goalie

Cats are known for their reflexes, but this particular cat seems to be a cut above the rest.

The frisky feline doesn't let a single plastic disc get near its door, going so far as to bat away a disc that's already been stopped, lest it drift past. If that weren't enough dedication, the cat even makes a couple of high-flying saves.

If this cat doesn't have a career in hockey, then it's certainly going to get some attention as a utility fielder for the Yankees.

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Cats may be just as smart as dogs

Dogs are well-known for their ability to learn and remember commands and tricks. Their memories can be so good that they can retrieve a specified toy from a pile of favorites.

Now, a new study shows that cats may be able to recall things like dogs do — a moment to be celebrated by cat lovers everywhere who know their feline friends are more clever than they're given credit for. (Perhaps the difference is that cats don't need to impress everyone as much as dogs do.)

Researchers from Japan gathered 49 cats to see if they could remember which food dishes they ate from and which they didn't. The cats were allowed to eat from two of four different containers of food. Then the cats were removed from the room for 15 minutes and the containers were swapped out for empty ones. The cats were returned to the room, and researchers found that they explored the containers from which they hadn't eaten for longer periods of time than those they had eat from.

Their exploration of the new containers suggests that the cats remembered food was in those containers and used what the researchers call "what" and "where" information to recall the presence of food from the earlier session. Researchers point out that this recall isn't associated with the pleasure of eating food, so the cats had "encoded" the information into their brains.

Tonight will be a memory, too

This recalling of where food was located would seem to indicate that cats have episodic memory, or the ability to recall details from past events. Dogs have been shown to have it, and we humans certainly have it. It's how we're able to recall what song was playing at a wedding or what someone wore a few days ago. If this is the case, then it's possible that cats may be able to remember things for much longer than just 15 minutes.

This sort of recall could also hint that cats have a rich interior world as well.

"Episodic memory is viewed as being related to introspective function of the mind; our study may imply a type of consciousness in cats," Saho Takagi, one of the researchers involved in the study, told BBC News.

"An interesting speculation is that they may enjoy actively recalling memories of their experience like humans."

So the next time you see your cat just staring into space, she may actually be remembering a particularly tasty bite of tuna, or that time you played with her a couple of weeks ago.

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Stressed dogs prefer reggae and soft rock

When you crank the music, do you ever think about your dog's musical tastes? If your pup needs to chill, you may want to put on some Bob Marley or John Denver.

Researchers at the University of Glasgow worked in conjunction with the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) to see how various types of music affected the stress levels of kenneled dogs. Shelter dogs listened to a wide range of music from Spotify playlists. The genres varied from day to day, with the furry residents listening to classical, reggae, soft rock, pop and Motown in a series of experiments.

While each genre was playing, the researchers measured the dogs' stress levels by monitoring their heart rate variability and cortisol levels. They also kept track of whether the dogs were lying down or barking while the music was on.

The researchers found that regardless of what type of music was playing, the dogs were generally "less stressed" with music vs. without. They spent significantly more time lying down (versus standing) when any type of music was playing. They also seemed to show a slight preference for reggae and soft rock, with Motown coming in last, but not by much.

Musical tastes may vary

The responses to the genres was mixed, co-author Neil Evans, a professor of integrative physiology, told the Washington Post.

“What we tended to see was that different dogs responded differently,” Evans said. “There’s possibly a personal preference from some dogs for different types of music, just like in humans.”

The results make a good argument for playing music in shelters, where dogs can be frightened by unfamiliar surroundings. Evans points out that stress can cause dogs to bark, cower and behave in ways that makes it hard for them to be adopted. It's worth noting that in the tests, playing music of any kind didn't make barking dogs stop barking; however, when the music stopped, quiet dogs were more likely to start barking.

“We want the dogs to have as good an experience as they can in a shelter,” said Evans, who pointed out that people looking to adopt “want a __dog who is looking very relaxed and interacts with them.”

Two of the Scottish SPCA's facilities now play music for their residents, and the research has convinced them to expand the program. The research has been published in the journal Physiology & Behavior.

“Having shown that variety is key to avoid habituation, the Scottish SPCA will be investing in sound systems for all their kennels,” the charity said on its website. “In the future, every center will be able to offer our four-footed friends a canine-approved playlist with the view to extending this research to other species in the charity’s care.”

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7 questions to ask before getting a pet bird

Our love of bird-watching often translates into wanting to keep a bird as a pet. With their colorful plumage and friendly chattering, feathered friends make popular pets. However, they're also a big responsibility and sometimes those aspects of birds that seem cute at first — like constant singing — can become a burden.

If you're considering getting a bird, these questions can help you select the right kind of bird for your lifestyle and enter ownership with your eyes wide open.

How much care can I provide?

Zebra finches are popular pets. Selecting the right species of bird is one of the most important decisions you'll make. (Photo: Bespaliy/Shutterstock)

Different species have different care needs. Ask yourself what you're capable of giving. Do you have only half an hour a day to care for your bird, or do you have several hours to spend?

Parrots can be appealing, for example, but they may be a poor choice for some pet owners. They require an exceptional amount of care and mental stimulation, and since they live for decades (some live past 70 years old), they're a lifetime commitment. Meanwhile, other popular birds like society finches are low-maintenance and low-mess, and so can be wonderful company for a busy household or a family with children.

An online quiz, such as this one by AllPetBirds.com, can match your personality and lifestyle to the best bird species for you. Take a few quizzes from bird- and pet-oriented websites and talk to experts in bird care as you decide what kind of bird to choose.

How much can I afford?

Some species of birds need companions. If that's the kind you choose, consider how the increased cost will affect your budget. (Photo: satit sewtiw/Shutterstock)

There is more to owning a bird than buying a cage and some seed. The cost of owning a bird depends in large part on the species, but being aware of these costs can save you some headache down the road.

Costs to consider:

• veterinary care and medications
• healthy food, which may include fresh fruits and vegetables
• the correct cage, the cost of which goes up with the size of bird
• interactive toys for mental stimulation, which staves off behavior problems
• cleaning supplies
• grooming supplies

The cost of the supplies alone ranges from $500 to $2,000, not including the cost of the bird and the ongoing monthly costs, which vary depending on the species.

As PetYak notes, "While the cost of owning a small bird is relatively inexpensive, the cost of owning a medium to large parrot usually exceeds that of owning either a cat or dog."

Knowing how much you're willing to spend each month will help you decide if you want a smaller, low-maintenance bird or if you can handle the expense of a larger one.

Where is the bird coming from?

Yellow cockatiels are popular pets because they tend to be less noisy and can be left alone for long periods of time. (Photo: Africa Studio/Shutterstock)

If you've decided on the kind of bird you'd like for a pet, the next important questions to ask are: where is the bird coming from, and is your choice affecting the species as a whole?

Some species are going extinct in the wild because of the illegal pet trade. Parrot and parakeet species are hit especially hard. And the African gray parrot, famous for its intelligence and a popular pet, is almost extinct in the wild due to the pet trade.

A 2016 study showed that in Indonesia alone, 13 species and 14 subspecies of bird are threatened with extinction — and five may already be extinct in the wild — due to the illegal pet trade. Some of the species at risk include the yellow-crested cockatoo, scarlet-breasted lorikeet, Javan green magpie, black-winged myna, Bali myna and Java sparrow.

“The number one thing I want people to know is that the bird trade is an incredibly urgent issue that needs addressing,” Chris Shepherd, one of the study’s authors and the Southeast Asian regional director for TRAFFIC, a wildlife trade-monitoring organization, told National Geographic. “It is a conservation crisis that is being ignored.”

As you research what kind of bird you want, it's important to know where that bird is coming from and if your choice contributes to the decline of the species in the wild.

It's best to look into sourcing a pet bird from a reputable breeder, or better yet...

Should I adopt a bird?

Yes! There are lots of birds out there in need of a home. Just as shelters are amazing resources for finding the perfect __dog or cat for your family, you can find and adopt the perfect bird from rescue groups.

Large organizations including the Humane Society and Best Friends Animal Society have birds listed as available for adoption. You can also use PetFinder to search multiple rescues in your area or country-wide.

Can I keep a bird healthy?

Many birds require special care and attention to keep up their health. (Photo: GrooveZ/Shutterstock)

Aside from keeping a cage clean and paying attention to your bird, your feathered friend also has health needs. Proper grooming and keeping a pristine cage, including changing the water twice a day, can help prevent many health problems, but a wide range of issues can pop up.

Birds can become host to worms, mites and lice, and need to be monitored regularly for such parasites and treated when necessary. Diseases such as Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease, Egg Binding, Polyomavirus, Candidiasis infections and others can affect pet birds.

Some illnesses can be difficult to detect, with subtle symptoms such as a decrease in preening, a change in the bird's droppings or less vocalizations. Paying very close attention to your bird and its routine is critical for detecting possible health problems.

"Signs of illness can be subtle in birds...The health of pet birds is a specialized area and resolving health problems can be difficult. Checking your bird’s health regularly is a key step in ensuring good welfare and preventing disease," the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals notes.

It is also important to note that birds can cause health problems in their human owners — feather dust can cause asthma flare-ups or more serious issues. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes, "Germs from birds can cause a variety of illnesses in people, ranging from minor skin infections to serious illnesses. These illnesses are rare in the United States, but it's better to be safe and take steps to keep yourself and your birds healthy."

Is a bird compatible with my kids and pets?

When your kids care for or play with the bird, it's a good idea to supervise them, especially at first. (Photo: Shliakhtun Volha/Shutterstock)

Selecting the right pet bird also means considering whether or not a bird is safe to have around pets and children.

Birds can become stressed when taunted by other pets with a prey drive, such as dogs and cats that aren't exactly friendly with the birds. Even if kept safe in a cage, the stress can lead to illness for the bird. You may need to consider gradual and supervised introductions to other pets — or keeping the pets separate entirely.

Birds and children don't always make the best of friends either. Petcha notes, "Because parrots and birds are prey animals, quick movements, loud noises and grabbing hands are all seen as threatening to them. A parrot might respond to this by biting or trying to fly away, so a child that has lots of energy and not much self control over his or her movements or desires would not make a great pet bird owner."

When children care for birds or play with them, it's a good idea to supervise them. This puts safety first both for the child and for the bird, which can become accidentally injured when let loose in the house.

If you have a household with children, it may be best to consider smaller birds or those that don't require much socialization when looking for the most compatible species.

How much do I value quiet time?

Finches tend to be talkative, so consider what your neighbors might think before taking one home to your apartment with thin walls. (Photo: Lewzstock/Shutterstock)

One of the most common reasons birds are handed over to shelters and rescues is because of noise. As No Feather Left Behind, an avian rescue organization notes, "Parrots are LOUD. Even the small parrots are loud. That's what parrots are made to do, and we cannot fault them for it. Whether it be the bird guardian who is at his wit's end, or the neighbors, noise levels are a major reason people give up their parrots."

It's not just parrots that are loud. Finches, canaries, budgies and other species are talkative, and potential bird owners should realize the noise level they're committing to when bringing birds home. Even if you find it comforting, your neighbors in an apartment or condo complex might not and noise complaints are a possibility.

If everything else about bird ownership seems doable, this last issue is something to seriously consider before making that final decision. Thanks to all the due diligence, you'll be a wonderfully prepared, responsible and happy bird owner!

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Jaymi Heimbuch ( @jaymiheimbuch ) focuses on wildlife conservation and animal news from her home base in San Francisco.

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‘A Dog’s Purpose’ Author Weighs in on Allegations of Abuse on Set

via YouTube

Footage of a scene in the upcoming Hollywood film, A Dog’s Purpose shot in November of 2015 outraged __dog lovers, sparked a nationwide boycott of the film, and resulted in a public relations nightmare for both Amblin Entertainment and Universal Pictures less than two weeks before the highly anticipated film’s premiere date.

In the edited video, obtained and released by TMZ,  one of the film’s several animal actors, Hercules, a German Shepherd appears to be fearful, desperately resisting shooting a scene inside a pool of churning water and rapids. The video footage shows a __dog handler appearing to force the animal into rushing water, despite the dog’s desperate attempts to remain on dry land. The dog was eventually dropped into the water where he almost immediately submerged. It is unclear if the dog was trained to go under water rather than tread on top, but someone in the background of the video yelled, “Cut it!” … and handlers rushed to pull the dog from the water.

The author of the book by the same name and co-screenwriter, W. Bruce Cameron says the edited video released to the public “mis-characterizes” what actually happened on set. He posted the following statement to Facebook:

First I want to thank everyone—and there have been literally thousands of you—who have written to express support. Your words and thoughts mean the world to us.

I found the video we’ve all seen to be shocking because when I was on set, the ethic of everyone was the safety and comfort of the dogs.

If the people who shot and edited the video thought something was wrong, why did they wait fifteen months to do anything about it, instead of immediately going to the authorities?

I have since viewed footage taken of the day in question, when I wasn’t there, and it paints an entirely different picture.

The written commentary accompanying the edited video mischaracterizes what happened. The dog was not terrified and not thrown in the water—I’ve seen footage of Hercules earlier that day joyfully jumping in the pool. When he was asked to perform the stunt from the other side of the pool, which was not how he had been doing it all day, he balked. The mistake was trying to dip the dog in the water to show him it was okay—the water wasn’t his issue, it was the location that was the issue, and the dog happily did the stunt when he was allowed to return to his original spot.

I also didn’t like it when Hercules’s head briefly went under water, but there was a scuba diver and a trainer in the pool to protect him. He loves the water, wasn’t in danger, and wasn’t upset.

On a movie where the mantra was the safety and comfort of the dogs, mistakes were made, and everything needs to be done to make sure those errors are not repeated. But the reason American Humane certifies that no animals were harmed during the making of the film is that no animals were harmed during the making of the film.

I celebrate animal rescue and am proud of the values that show up in A Dog’s Purpose. — Bruce

The unedited video footage is currently being used in several independent investigations into the alleged abuse on set. It is expected to be released publicly after those investigations are complete.

Will you be in theaters in support of the film when it’s released on January 27th, or will you be boycotting it? Please weigh in with a comment below!

Police Officer Apprehends Escaped Canine Prisoner

A Roswell, Georgia police officer was dispatched after reports of three dogs running loose came into the department. When she arrived on scene, Officer Sanford successfully apprehended one of the escapees, Duke, a Golden Retriever, although he reportedly resisted arrest.

She immediately took Duke to a nearby veterinarian where it was determined that he, thankfully, was microchipped. After contacting Duke’s owner, she learned that Duke had been pressured by the neighbor’s dogs, who had also escaped their own yards, to take an unchaperoned stroll around the neighborhood.

The Roswell Police Department shared the news on Facebook:

Of course, Duke’s family were thankful to have their boy home. And, they loved Officer Sanford’s selfie so much, it’ll be their Christmas card photo this year!

Remember, escaped __dog stories don’t always end in laughter. Thankfully Duke and his two friends were safely returned to their respective homes. But, had the escapee not been microchipped, this story could very well have had a different ending.

Heroic Puppy Saves Owner From Attacker

Hercules, a 10-month-old Rottweiler puppy from The Woodlands, Texas, is living up to his name after saving his owner from an attacker. Catalina Humphrey was walking her dog along a trail in the Grogan’s Mill community around 4 p.m. Saturday when a man came up from behind and grabbed her.

She told KHOU that Hercules sprung into action before she could even react. “He went around behind me and attacked him. I fell down. I was surprised because he’s sweet and loving. I didn’t know he would exhibit that side of him,” Humphrey said.

Hercules, a 110-pound, 10-month old puppy, bit the attacker over and over again until the man ran off screaming and bleeding.

“I didn’t have a purse on me. I just had my workout gear on. I didn’t have something that would draw me out for him to want to attack me like that,” Humphrey said. “I don’t know what his intent was, but I know it wasn’t good”

Investigators with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office collected DNA from Hercules’ mouth and a scratch on Humphrey’s shoulder. Humphrey will assist police in creating a sketch.

Police have also checked nearby hospitals and clinics for reports of a man being treated for bite wounds.

Meanwhile, Hercules was treated to some extra treats and a spa day reward for his heroic actions.

The attacker is described as a clean-shaven black male in his 20’s, about 5-foot-10 and weighs approximately 175 pounds. Anyone with information should call the MCSO at 936-760-5800 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-392-STOP (7867).

Injured Dog Walks Two Miles on Broken Leg to Save Her Newborn Puppies

There’s no length to which a mother won’t go for her babies. The same was true of Vera, a __dog found wandering the streets of Spain, starving, injured, and dragging a broken leg behind her.

When rescuers captured Vera to help her heal, they discovered that she’d very recently given birth. Knowing her puppies wouldn’t survive without her, Vera’s rescuers put a cast over her broken leg and let her lead the way.

Puppies found alive after Italian avalanche

Three shaggy puppies were found alive in the rubble of a mountain hotel, five days after an avalanche hit central Italy. Rescuers dug the white Abruzzo sheepdog pups out of piles of snow and rubble, where they had found refuge in the remains of the boiler room of the now-flattened Hotel Rigopiano.

"They just started barking very softly," Sonia Marini, a member of the Forestry Corps, told the Associated Press. "In fact, it was hard to find them right away because they were hidden. Then we heard this very tiny bark and we saw them from a little hole the firefighters had opened in the wall. Then we expanded the hole and we pulled them out."

The month-old puppies were born to the hotel's resident dogs, Nuvola and Lupo. The parent dogs had found a way out of the hotel after the avalanche, but the pups were left behind.

Rescuers had been digging and searching by hand for the 20 people still missing after the avalanche. Discovering the puppies offered some hope that others might still be found.

Firefighter spokesman Luca Cari, however, said that finding the puppies in an isolated part of the hotel didn't necessarily mean there was hope for finding more human survivors.

"We're happy to have saved them, and these are important moments in a dramatic situation," he told the AP. "But I don't think there's much correlation with finding other people."

But finding the puppies was, "a ray of light in the midst of so much pain," rescuer Marini wrote on Facebook. "Tears and joy from all of us!!!"

Watch as the rescuers brought the puppies out to safety.

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Mary Jo DiLonardo Mary Jo writes about everything from health to parenting — and anything that helps explain why her __dog does what he does.

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Dog on a Train Tries to Convince Fellow Passengers That He’s a Person Like Anyone Else

There is nothing better in life to a dog than going for a ride.  Except, of course, the destination, as long as it’s somewhere fun.  This dog was super happy to be taking a train ride with his human, and was a very good boy and sat in his seat just like a regular person.

Domenica Smailes was on a train in the UK when she was pleasantly surprised to have a dog seated next to her.

“I was on the train from Cowdenbeath through to Edinburgh, and it sat beside me the full way,” she explained.

“Its owner put a jacket down on the seat for it to sit back up. People around us thought it was funny because of the way it was sitting.”

“I thought it was hilarious. Luckily it wasn’t too busy a train.”

How lucky she was!  That dog was probably a much better traveling companion than most people ever have.

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The Letter This Dog’s Family Left at the Shelter Will Break Your Heart

 

When Roofus’ family had to say goodbye to him at a shelter six years ago, they included a letter at intake.  But it got shuffled into his file, never seen by staff, until now.  This poor dog has been in and out of the shelter ever since, with some saying that he’s just too old.  Yes, he’s a senior, but that was even more reason for someone to give him the home he’s been waiting for all these years…. And now he has one!

It’s always sad when people are forced to surrender their pets to shelters, however, it is better that they bring them in rather than dump them outside or pass them off to someone who may harm them.  Roofus’ family brought him back to Bishop Animal Shelter in Bradenton, Florida, where they had adopted him when he was younger.  It was a heartbreaking decision, explained in the letter they left:

My name is Roofus.  My family loves me very much but they have fallen on hard times.  My daddy lost his job a year ago and can’t find a new one.  My mommy tells me they have to downsize to a smaller apartment and can’t afford to keep me.  I will miss my two-legged siblings so much.  They keep crying and hugging me, begging mommy and daddy not to take me back to the shelter.  I remember living at the shelter before.  Your staff is very kind, but nothing compares to a family.  My family is very sad to give me back to Bishop but they know you’ll find me a new family that will love me just as much.  They’re including my bed and favorite toys.  Please find me a good home.  Love, Roofus.

Staffer Meg Mayer couldn’t even get through the whole thing without breaking down.  But the employees’ sadness was worth it; when Roofus’ story made the news, a woman named Karen Reed Duffy decided to adopt him.  Months later she posted that she and Roofus were “still going strong.”

      Junior, thankfully, is back to being a sweet, …

“A Dog’s Purpose” IS NOT to Be Thrown into the Water for a Dramatic Scene

The internet is buzzing with reports of possible animal abuse taking place on the set of the upcoming film A Dog’s Purpose.  A video of the filming of the movie has surfaced showing someone trying to put German shepherd Hercules into some turbulent water, and the poor dog is obviously terrified.  Film crews stand there watching, as the dog makes a desperate bid to stay dry.

“Well, the water is warm at least,” you can hear someone say.

The shoot was taking place outside of Winnipeg, Canada in November of 2015.  In the video, you can see a trainer try and try again to put the dog into what’s described as a pool able to simulate a very turbulent river.  The dog clearly wants no part of the rushing water, and given the look of it, it’s not hard to see why.

Eventually, someone gets the dog to go into the water, and he’s pretty much swept right under.  It’s not clear if that was scripted or not, but someone screams cut, and people rush to Hercules, presumably to help get the dog out and to safety.

“There were several days of rehearsal of the water scenes to ensure Hercules was comfortable with all of his stunts,” said a joint statement from Amblin Entertainment and Universal Pictures.  “On the day of this shoot, Hercules did not want to perform the stunt portrayed on the tape, so the Amblin production team did not proceed with filming that shot.”

The red carpet premiere and press junket for Saturday in Los Angeles has been canceled due to widespread cries to protest.

Director Lasse Hallstrom said on Twitter that he had not witnessed the events in the infamous footage, and that he was “very disturbed” by it.

“We were all committed to providing a loving, respectful and safe environment for all the animals in the film,” he continued.  “I have been a lifelong animal lover and A Dog’s Purpose is my third film about dogs.  The animals’ safety was of the utmost priority.

“I have been promised that a thorough investigation into this situation is underway and that any wrongdoing will be reported and punished.”

What do you think?  Cut and dry abuse case or major overreaction?

Officials say a Massachusetts farmer is lucky to be alive thanks to his fearless …

Dallas Cowboy Buys Entire Table of Food to Help Shelter Dogs

It’s always great when big stars – particularly football players *ahem* – use their celebrity for a good cause.  Dallas Cowboy Dez Bryant recently did just that when he helped a rescue group by buying up their whole table of food they were selling to raise money for their rescue dogs.

Lost Paws Rescue of Texas is a small group, and they rely on donations to help as many dogs and cats as possible get spayed, neutered, fed, medically treated, housed, and adopted.  And in Texas, there’s no shortage of dogs being dumped on the streets regularly by people who can’t be bothered to care for them.

The rescue had set up a table at a PetSmart in Southlake (just north of Fort Worth and Dallas), hoping that customers buying food for their own pets would feel generous enough to support them and buy a bag for their shelter animals.  Wide receiver Dez Bryant came in with a couple of his buddies, and he was kind enough to buy the whole lot!

“Thank you to Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant for supporting Lost Paws Rescue of Texas,” the group said on Facebook.  “Dez purchased this entire table of __pet food for the dogs in our rescue group.”

Children emulate the adults in their lives and idolize footballers for their athletic prowess, so it’s fantastic when their heroes do good deeds that make them truly worthy of such veneration.

On October 17, 2017, firefighters from San Lorenzo, Paraguay, rushed to rescue a …

Remus Is the Big-Old-Sweetie That You and Your Family Have Always Dreamed of Adopting!

Remus is a seven-year-old “All-American” dog that’s been rescued by Raven Pines Dog Rescue in central Arizona, and he is in need of a really good home.  Remus has been waiting for a while for that forever family to come and take him home, but it just hasn’t happened yet, and we can’t figure out why.  He pretty much is the ultimate family dog!

Let’s let Raven Pines introduce Remus:

REMUS is a seven-year-old, neutered All American Dog.  Possibly a mix of Hound & Shepherd.  He weighs about 50-55lbs.  He is crate trained, house broken, vaccinated and micro-chipped.  A little shy at first, he quickly becomes very playful.  He is in a pack with males and females.

We do require a home check.  We allow the dog to stay with you for a week to give both you and the dog a chance to really get to know each other.  If during that time, you find it is not a match we will return your adoption fee of $100, and take him back.

Should you decide to adopt REMUS, we offer a free crate for REMUS and free boarding when you go on vacation.  Just bring enough food to cover his stay.  We also offer training advice to help REMUS get accustomed to his new surroundings.

Adoption radius is 100mi from Cordes Lakes, AZ.  (Central Arizona)
If you would like to know more about REMUS, or see more pictures of him, please contact us at [email protected] or call 602.339.1797.
Thanks for considering adoption!
Our Amazon link is:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/1FXH2YRJA0FB6/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_1
https://www.facebook.com/ravenpinesdogrescue/

http://ravenpinesdogrescue.rescueme.org/

  Sometimes Chihuahuas can be insecure and aggressive, and other times …

Heidi Is a Sweet Older Gal Who’s Just Dying to Be the Love of Your Life!

Are you looking to make a doggy-addition to your family?  Are you looking for and adorable, lovable and easy going older dog who’s already learned so much in her five years?  Well, look no further, because Heidi is the dog you’ve been waiting for!  She’s available through Tails Humane Society in DeKalb, Illinois, and waiting for you!

Let’s let the Tails Humane Society introduce Heidi:

Heidi is a five year old pit bull mix.  She’s a sweet, loving older gal seeking a home.  She began the search almost 9 months ago through Tails.  She’s had a little trouble understanding why she’s still here.

Heidi has graduated from our dog mentoring program, where she has learned important leash manners, play manners and commands.  She is the first dog that has successfully graduated from this program. She’s house trained, keeps her kennel clean and tidy and will happily give you kisses and stay be your side, if you’ll let her.

She should be an only pet, but who wouldn’t love a wonderful dog like her?!  She is also recommended for a home with children over the age of 12.  Being an older gal, she’s over some of the antics that young children can bring.  Heidi knows that she’s been on the search for a while, but she’s not ready to give up hope yet.

Tails Humane Society is located in DeKalb, IL at 2250 Barber Greene Road.  We are open for adoptions from 12-6PM Monday-Wednesday, 12-7PM Thursday-Friday and 12-5PM Saturday-Sunday.  Her adoption fee is $125 (which has been sponsored) to an approved adopter.  All adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, all vaccinations needed up to adoption, heartworm test (dogs over 4 months), FIV/FeLV test (cats) and a free vet wellness check.  Interested adopters will need to come to Tails Humane Society in-person to meet Heidi, complete the adoption survey, review our contract and be approved for adoption.

Tails Humane Society

2250 Barber Greene Road

DeKalb IL 60115

www.tailshumanesociety.org

www.facebook.com/tailshumanesociety

If you were alive back in the 1980's, this dog going up the stairs may remind …

Handsome may Have Been Badly Burned in a Fire, but His Spirit and Love Survived Unscathed

Handsome is one dynamic pit bull.  His story is truly inspiring, as this adorable little guy sustained terrible burn in a house fire that left him scarred on the left side of his body.  He may have been through a lot in a short time, but it hasn’t dampened this boy’s spirit in any way.

What’s confusing to us and to the Humane Society of Stanislaus County in Modesto, California is why Handsome still hasn’t found a forever family.  He’s so full of love and so full of energy, and all he wants in life is some people to make happy.

Let’s let his rescuers introduce him:

Handsome has a unique story and personality to match.  He is approximately 3-4 year old Pit Bull, neutered, up to date on vaccinations, microchipped, and house trained.  He was also severely burned in a house fire in 2014 and has permanent scars on the left side of his body.  Despite that, it has not affected his high octane personality, we call him the happiest dog on earth!  We like to say “His body was burned but his spirit remains unscathed.”

Handsome has been foster care since July 2014 and has only had limited interest even with profiles on Petfinders & Adopt A Pet, media stories and even a You Tube video.  When people meet Handsome in person they are often overwhelmed by his level of excitement and he needs someone who can help him channel his energy into polite greetings.

He would do best in a family with older children and we always recommend slow and well planned introductions to other animals.  His exuberance in greetings is often not welcome by other animals but he does play well (but hard) with another high energy female Pit Bull in my foster care.  His favorite form of play is water!  The dog loves the hose or sprinklers and will chase moving water endlessly in sheer joy!

There is an online application on our website to adopt Handsome: www.humanestanislaus.care.  The adoption fee is normally $175 but we would consider that negotiable for the right home.  For transport reasons we would like to keep Handsome close to the West Coast but again would consider adopting to other areas depending on the quality of the situation for Handsome.

We need your help to save a life.  According to an animal control officer in …

Terrified Little Pit Bull Living in a Pipe Finds Out Not All Humans Are Terrifying

The exact amount of time that Tank had been homeless, or for exactly how long he had been taking up residence in a pipe on the lot of an oil refinery.  What is known is he had been seen in the area for a few months off and on, and had eluded rescue thus far.  That was all soon to change.

The lot he was living on gave him a unique advantage over any would-be rescuers, as after he would bolt away from someone and take refuge amongst the many pipes he was all but impossible to locate.  Eventually, the Hope for Paws team was called in for their experience and expertise when it comes to difficult rescues.

When they got to the last area that Tank had been seen in, again he was impossible to spot.  They could totally hear him growling out a warning for them to back off, but the simple number of possible hiding locations was clearly not going to make things any easier.  They knew that this was going to be quite a lot of work requiring GOBS of patience, but they would not be put off quite so easily.

Eventually, the rescue team did manage to get Tank out of the pipes and under control.  He was understandably distrustful of his rescuers at first.  After all, it had been quite some time since Tank had any real human contact, and who knows what this poor dog had been through before that.  However, the people with Hope for Paws are very good at what they do, and eventually won Tank over.

Tank is a much different boy these days.  Thanks to the great people that helped him, he’s learning that not all humans are terrorizers, and a lot of us really just want to love as many dogs as we possibly can.  Please consider making a donation so Hope for Paws can continue the great work that they do.

On August 28, 2013, members of Cape of Good Hope SPCA (CoGH), South Africa, …

Seattle Woman Wants to Pants Your Dog…But in a Good Way

Julie Korth got her dog, Mozzie, from a rescue that saves dogs from death row shelters in California.  While it was love at first site, he did come with some potty training challenges that needed to be addressed.  Or, perhaps, simply dressed. So, Julie put on her thinking cap and created a pair of pants for the pooch that included an absorbent pad.  Within five short days, Mozzie was able to take his business outside and, Julie says, there was absolutely no stress involved.

She inadvertently discovered the pants were ideal for Mozzie’s buddy, Cody, who was subject to rashes due to seasonal allergies. The pants kept him from scratching, effectively taking the not-so-charming cone out of commission. Julie also shared it is a great way for keeping dogs clean when playing outside. Off with the pants and into the wash, while the canine stays clean.

Since then, she has expanded her doggy fashion line to include models without the crotch so stylish dogs can conduct their business and still look fantastic, T-shirts, fleece versions, and in a wide range of sizes. Of additional note, all pants are made in the USA and produced by a team of women seamstresses.

To get a pair Mozzie Pants for your dog, find them at Scraps Dog Bakery in Seattle and at the Mozzie Pants website.

Julie, Mozzie & Cody (all photos: Mozziepants.com)

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Video courtesy of King 5 Entertainment.

Claiming that it would "help promote the fact that dogs are raised like cows, …

“CUT!!!” Hilarious Dog Cameo in Bride’s Video

Source: Dog completely ruins bride’s wedding video by NorthernLightsVideo on Rumble

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Dogs. They don’t care about your self-indulgent video shoots. LOLOL

  Sure, we’re used to seeing dogs with all sorts of talents now, but …

“Unadoptable” Death Row Dog Saves an Apartment Building Full of Children from a Deadly Gas Leak

Note:  Suzy Chandler and Jacqueline Berlin are incorrectly labeled as each other in the news video.

—————————————————————————————————————————————

Kailey was one of those incredibly hard-to-place dogs.  She had been abused, and tended to snap at new people.  She spent a year in a shelter and was days from being euthanized.  But when the perfect person came along to adopt her, she saved more than just Kailey’s life, because this heroic dog saved many from what could have been a catastrophic explosion.

Last month, Suzy Chandler adopted Kailey after a public plea was made on her behalf by foster parents Jacqueline Berlin and Keith Santer-Peham.  Though the three-year-old shepherd mix was cute, her trust issues were preventing her from leaving DeKalb County Animal Services for good, and in two days, she was scheduled to be put down.

“Her one issue was that something has happened to her in in her past so that if you try to touch her and she did not know you she would snap at you,” Jacqueline told Fox 5.  “Because of her issue it was really hard to get her adopted.”

So she put a post on the Atlanta shelter’s Facebook page, appealing to introverts who might enjoy having a “Velcro dog” – that is, once Kailey got to know them.  Suzy was intrigued by the post, and applied to adopt.  In just a few short weeks, she would be unbelievably glad that she had.

“The story of what she had been through and it just pulled on our heartstrings, we just thought we would be the perfect people for her,” Suzy said.  “It was a perfect match.”

This past Friday morning, Suzy said Kailey began behaving oddly.

“All of a sudden she just started barking and looking at us and growling, like trying to get our attention and I said, ‘Well, what’s the matter with her?’”

She brought Kailey outside, and was immediately dragged to an area beside the house.

“She pulled me directly over to the side yard,” Suzy explained.  “Right away I smelled overpowering gas and [heard] a loud whooshing sound.”

“It was coming from next door to them where there is an apartment building full of children,” Jacqueline said on her Facebook page.  “If one person had lit a match, it could’ve been a bad scene.”

Suzy called 911, and the DeKalb County Fire team arrived to monitor the air quality at the apartment complex.  Fortunately, everyone was alright and nothing more serious occurred as a result of the leak.

Suzy hopes this will serve as an inspiration for others to adopt shelter dogs.  Not only will you be saving a life, but someday, they may save yours.

“If you have the space, you have room in your heart to take in a needy animal, to love on them, I mean it comes back to you tenfold,” she said.

Two US border guards are being commended for saving the life of a stranded dog. …

You’ve Decided You Want to Adopt… What’s Next?

Deciding you are ready to add a furry companion to your life is a very exciting time, but can also be overwhelming given all of the different options and the volume of currently homeless animals waiting for the perfect person to come scoop them up. Here are some tools to help guide the process, and to help ensure that you are making the best choices for what fits your needs, lifestyle, and will make for a lasting relationship!

Decide what “type of dog” fits your lifestyle. Not necessarily breed, but size, age and activity level. Your current work schedule, living quarters, time spent being active, all play a role in the right type of __dog for you. Once you have an idea of what you may be looking for, perhaps spend some time browsing the internet in search of local shelters and/or rescues near you.

Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet are two good search engines for adoptable dogs, as you can filter your search to age, breed or breed type, and distance from you. It may also help you narrow down your search, or you may fall in love with a particular photo. Nothing beats meeting a potential __dog in person, so once you find a few online you may like, I would suggest starting by either stopping by the shelter if it’s close to you, or contacting the shelter via phone/email to inquire if the dog is still available for adoption. Often times you may be able to ask some questions over the phone that will quickly rule out if a particular dog would do well in your life. Due to the nature of daily adoptions, there could be a dog listed that has been recently adopted.

Another option would be planning a day or time to hit your local shelters and browse. Doing so in person allows for you to get a feel for the dog’s personality, see who you may be naturally drawn to, as well ask shelter staff questions and use them to help you find the perfect dog for you. These questions are very important and some great suggestions are as follows;

Ask about a dog’s history. Depending on how a dog came to be in a shelter, the staff may be able to provide you with information and insight pertinent to that particular dogs household needs, future care needs, additional training needs, and/or other special requirements. This is vital to understanding a dog, and what they need from you as they enter a new home environment.

Ask about any medical or behavioral assessments that have been performed on a dog. Shelters and rescues are becoming better and better at learning dog’s specific medical and behavioral needs which could be vital info for a potential adopter to ensure that you are well aware of any ongoing needs of a dog you may bring into your home. Many times shelter staff also is very aware if a particular dog may not do well with children, cats, or other dogs in the home. Knowing these things ahead of time will greatly reduce the chances of an unsuccessful adoption.

Ask about the adoption process. Every shelter and rescue has a unique set of requirements and adoption timeline. Some shelter offer “slumber parties” as a way to bring a dog into your home, and see the potential of that particular dog in your everyday environment. Some also may require a meet and greet with any existing pets, or even and children currently in the home.

Once you have found the perfect dog for you, and the adoption process is complete, only part of the work is done. Keep in mind that bringing a dog home is a huge adjustment; not just for you, but for the dog as well. Decompression time is a must, and you may experience shyness, fear, and other behavioral issues as the dog learns to trust you, and understands this new environment he has been put in. Don’t be too quick to think it’s not working out, or that the dog isn’t the right fit for you, in time you will see the dog become comfortable and his true personality will begin to shine. Shelters and rescues offer all kinds of resources and continued training/advice, so don’t be ashamed or hesitant to reach out with additional questions or concerns. They work on behalf of the dog’s best interest, and they want to see you succeed!

Sarah Ingram is from Dayton, Ohio. She is the mom of 6 dogs, from a small Chihuahua/Pug mix, to a large Chocolate Lab! As a passionate animal advocate, she is a dedicated animal shelter volunteer, and enjoys visiting shelters across the State of Ohio and learning about their processes, procedures, needs, and ways to help. She is a volunteer with Rescue Me Ohio, as part of their education & advocacy team, sharing knowledge on topics in animal welfare, responsible pet ownership, spay & neuter, and many other important topics. She enjoys networking adoptable dogs from all over Ohio, which is one of the primary functions of her social media pages, Sarah’s Space for K9 Rescue & Awareness  on Facebook & @SarahsSpace4K9s on Instagram, where she also shares helpful info for dog owners &  important animal welfare issues.

Animal Activist Marc Ching Makes Deal with South Korean Dog Meat Market to Close Local Slaughterhouses

News-making animal activist Marc Ching, Founder of The Animal Hope and Wellness Foundation (AHWF), has successfully secured an agreement with Gupo Meat Market in South Korea to close their slaughterhouses.

The historic agreement calls for the owners and association that run Gupo Meat Market, which has been slaughtering animals for more than a century, to not only close their __dog meat slaughterhouses, but all of them; including chicken, duck and rabbit slaughterhouses.

Marc Ching, Founder of Animal Hope and Wellness Foundation shaking hands with owners of Gupo Meat Market, one of the oldest and largest, in South Korea to acknowledge historic agreement they made yesterday to shut down their slaughterhouses.

“We reached a formal agreement that we will work together to shut the Gupo Meat Market slaughterhouses down, bring in new business or teach current ones how to do something different, while redeveloping the area; encouraging other slaughterhouses to do the same,” said Ching who personally facilitated the deal with Gupo and the association yesterday in Busan, South Korea. “By doing this, we are starting a new era of change, making history and presenting a positive solution for the future.”

Ching explains that while many local and international advocacy groups have lobbied and petitioned for the closure of Gupo’s meat market in the past, those were hostile meetings based in anger and threats; noting that the owners of Gupo Meat Market and the association said “this was the first time ever, someone has come asking how we can work together.” They called the day historic.

“While the process of emptying the cages still needs to be presented to the government, the hard part is over, getting the __dog meat traders, themselves, to want to become something else,” continued Ching who made international news last year for rescuing hundreds of dogs from the 2016 Yulin dog Meat Festival. “This is a victory for the animals and all of the people who support and believe in Animal Hope and Wellness Foundation’s ongoing plight to end the horrific trade where innocent dogs, and animals, are severely abused and tortured before being killed for their meat.”

Founded in 2011 by noted holistic nutritionist Marc Ching, The Animal Hope and Wellness Foundation is a non-profit organization that is focused on rescuing abused and neglected animals, providing full rehabilitation services and ultimately working to find them their forever families. The non-profit expanded its reach globally in 2015 to include rescuing dogs from the Asian Dog Meat Trade.

The Humane Society estimates that 30 million dogs are killed across Asia every year as part of the industry; an estimated 10 million killed in China alone.

Are Human Supplements Safe & Effective for Dogs, Too?

by Jeff Caceres 

Pet owners often wonder why their dogs are not healthy despite eating high-quality food, exercising with them, regular veterinary check-ups, and so on. Despite efforts to make their dogs healthy and safe, it is not always enough or guaranteed to give the results they deserve.

There are several brands of nutritional supplements especially for dogs to take. Some of these supplements for dogs are water-soluble, fat-soluble, and omega-3 fatty acids. However, the quality of their dietary supplements is the primary concern. The product should be highly efficient and safe for the __dog to take.

What if that nutritional supplement for your __dog is not useful? Or, what if that product is not available on the market anymore?

Not all supplements are created equal and, for pet parents, it’s often difficult to find one that’s effective, especially considering pet products don’t face the same scrutiny and testing as similar human supplements. dog owners must not rely themselves on different brands of nutritional supplements for dogs available today. After all, there are no guarantees that it could absorb into their dog’s blood stream due to its low bioavailability. One of the possible alternatives that you could provide for your dog is a nutritional supplement taken by humans.

How can pet owners consider that dietary supplements for humans are okay for dogs?

First and foremost, the dog owner must seek advice from a local veterinarian. Assuming that the dog is not being fed a well-balanced diet, you can bring a bottle or box of your nutritional supplement and let the doctor examine and research about it. The number one concern of most physicians and veterinarians is the quality of the product.

Just like humans, the quality is based on the number of nutrients, the body absorption rate, potency level, and has no side effects or adverse reactions. There are some foods that pet owners cannot allow their dogs to eat. It is the same thing when it comes for your dogs to take nutritional supplements marketed for humans.

Are human supplements totally safe for dogs as alternatives?

Human supplements containing zinc and iron, especially, should NOT be given to dogs. Just in case you let the dog take something with zinc and iron, immediate veterinary assistance is required. It is to prevent the dog from suffering permanent damage inside its body.

Never let your dog take a human nutritional supplement without seeking professional advice from a veterinarian. Even if you are confident that the product is safe and effective for dogs, do not forget to bring it to the vet before allowing your dog to take it.

Jeff Caceres is a freelance blogger who loves dogs. He and his family currently own 4 fluffy house dogs and 3 guard dogs. He loves to share tips, stories, pictures and videos on living his life with his lovable dogs. You can check out his dog website http://lifewithpuppy.com/ for more stories from different dog owners around the world.

Massive Fine & Jail Time Possible for Crew of ‘A Dog’s Purpose’ Film

Canada’s Chief Veterinary Office (CVO) is investigating circumstances around leaked video footage of alleged animal cruelty on the set of the A Dog’s Purpose movie shot in Winnipeg last December.

Video of Hercules, a German Shepherd appearing to be forced against his will into rushing waters for a scene in the film was leaked by TMZ this week after the animal rights advocate Animal Justice filed a cruelty complaint with the Winnipeg Humane Society, the provincial CVO and Winnipeg police “alleging violations of federal and provincial animal protection laws.”

A Chief Veterinary Office spokesperson said the department is “assigning an animal protection officer to evaluate the matter.” If any wrongdoing is found, the office could charge film crew with fines up to $10,000 and up to 6 months in jail.

Winnepeg Humane Society CEO Javier Schwersensky said in a statement, “this __dog was fearful and not properly trained for this experience. As well, there was no safe exit point for the __dog to escape the turbulent water.

“Training for a scene like this should take place weeks – if not months – in advance to help a dog get comfortable with not only being in water of that depth, but also the turbulence. It also helps to ensure the dog will not suffer consequences from such a traumatic experience,” he continued.

In the video below, obtained and released by TMZ, Hercules appears to be fearful, desperately resisting shooting a scene inside a pool of churning water and rapids. The video footage shows a dog handler appearing to force the animal into rushing water, despite the dog’s desperate attempts to remain on dry land.

The American Humane Association, whose Humane Hollywood initiative places a safety representative on set to ensure that “No Animals Were Harmed” during filming, has launched a separate investigation and has suspended a safety representative who worked on the film.

Both Amblin Entertainment and Universal Pictures are reviewing the footage, but assert that great care was taken to ensure Hercules’ safety.

The American Humane Association, whose Humane Hollywood initiative places a safety representative on set to ensure that “No Animals Were Harmed” during filming, has launched a separate investigation and has suspended a safety representative who worked on the film.

This puppy swallowed an 8-inch knife — but don't worry, she's fine!

Puppies get into mischief. When Macie, a 12-week-old Staffordshire bull terrier, started making a squeaking sound, her owner thought the pup had swallowed part of a toy.

But then she became sick and there was no sign of a toy, and Macie started choking. Her owner, Irene Paisley from Glasgow, Scotland, rushed Macie to the emergency vet, where X-rays showed that the curious puppy had somehow swallowed an 8-inch kitchen knife. The handle has passed through Macie's stomach and into her intestines, according to the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), the emergency veterinary hospital where Macie was treated. The tip of the knife was still in her esophagus.

This X-ray shows the blade inside Macie the puppy. (Photo: PDSA)

Macie underwent successful emergency surgery to remove the knife.

“I’ve never seen an X-ray like Macie’s," said PDSA veterinarian Emily Ronald. "She was extremely lucky to survive. Her saving grace was that she swallowed the handle-end first – the blade-end would undoubtedly have pierced her organs, likely causing fatal injuries."

Macie recuperated incredibly quickly, said Ronald.

“The morning after surgery, she was bouncing all over the place as if nothing had happened."

Macie has since been back for check-ups and is recovering and healing well.

Paisley and her family are, of course, thrilled that their newest family member is home and healthy. They still have no clue how or where Macie managed to get hold of the knife.

“I couldn’t believe it when they said Macie had swallowed a knife," she said. "I have no idea where she got hold of it — she could have pinched it out of the dishwasher, but no-one saw what happened."

• Profile
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Mary Jo DiLonardo Mary Jo writes about everything from health to parenting — and anything that helps explain why her __dog does what he does.

• Posted 2 days, 1 hour ago:

  This puppy swallowed an 8-inch knife — but don't worry, she's fine!

• Posted 2 days, 21 hours ago:

  Abused __dog that had nose and ears cut off is doing 'remarkably well'

• Posted 3 days ago:

  Why you need to walk at lunchtime

• Posted 4 days, 21 hours ago:

  Mysterious stranding kills dozens of false killer whales

Source : mnn[dot]com

Abused dog that had nose and ears cut off is doing 'remarkably well'

When a response team from the Michigan Humane Society was called to Southwest Detroit on Jan. 18, they were no doubt horrified by what they found: a Rottweiler mix abused to the point that someone had cut off his nose and ears. In addition, he had serious lacerations on his tail and legs.

As his story has spread, the pup has received messages of concern from all over the country, and donations have poured in for his care and toward the reward to find his abuser. The outlook is good for the resilient dog, now named Baron.

"Baron is doing remarkably well considering his injuries," said Dr. Shirene Cece, director of shelter veterinary medicine. "They're in the process of healing now."

Baron is on antibiotics and painkillers as the veterinary team weighs the options for his care, which may include reconstructive surgery for his nose.

'... it's incredible how kind he is'

In the meantime, he's enjoying lots of attention and love from shelter workers.

"He is the sweetest dog. Given his situation, it's incredible how kind he is," Valerie Bennett, social media coordinator, for the humane society, tells MNN. "He's just incredibly forgiving and so kind to everyone who has met him."

Many people have already called, emailed and posted on social media, offering to foster or adopt him.

"We've just been overwhelmed with the amount of support the entire community has given to this dog," says Bennett. "But because of the severity of his injuries, we're not able to determine when he'll be available for adoption or when he'll be available for fostering,"

The humane society had originally posted a $2,500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible for Baron's abuse. But so many people were touched by his plight that the reward is up to $11,200, as of this writing. An overwhelming number of tips have come in so far, Bennett says, and their team is canvassing the area to spread the word on Baron's situation.

Shelter workers spent a long time searching for the perfect name for the amazing dog.

"We were just looking for something that was really strong and about overcoming not the nicest of situations," Bennett says. "We looked up names of royalty and all agreed that it was the perfect name for him."

Money donated to the humane society's general fund will go to Baron and all animals at the shelter who need care. There is also a hotline for people wishing to donate to the reward: 248-283-5634.

• Profile
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Mary Jo DiLonardo Mary Jo writes about everything from health to parenting — and anything that helps explain why her __dog does what he does.

• Posted 10 hours ago:

  This puppy swallowed an 8-inch knife — but don't worry, she's fine!

• Posted 1 day, 6 hours ago:

  Abused __dog that had nose and ears cut off is doing 'remarkably well'

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Source : mnn[dot]com

Corgi hops in excitement over chicken toy

You've heard of the phrase "hopping mad," but apparently there's also such a thing as "hopping excited."

The phrase was coined for this corgi who, upon seeing its chicken toy placed on the ground, began to hop on its paws. It's curious that the corgi never comes too close to its clearly beloved chicken toy, almost as if the anticipation of playing with it is more fulfilling than actually playing with it.

So the next time you see something that really strikes your fancy, start hopping up and down in excitement. (It's good exercise and will spread this fun new turn of phrase.)

Source : mnn[dot]com