Whisker Therapy

A man, named Joe Dunn, was walking through the woods when he suddenly heard a dog howling. He ran over and looked down into a 200-foot cave. He saw a dog trapped deep below. The pup must have fallen in and now it was a race to save her in time!

As a storm rolled in, Joe hatched a plan. He placed a tall log inside the cavern and hoped the dog would climb out on her own. But his first plan failed. The dog couldn’t make her way up the tree. Joe felt hopeless. He didn’t have a rope with him so the dog would have to stay there overnight. He had a long hike back and needed to gather up reinforcements.

The following day, Joe returned with a few friends and the proper equipment. As they hiked towards the cave, they heard the pup howling. Thankfully she made it through the night. Joe set up the rope and lowered his buddy down.

This rescue will surely have you on the edge of your seat! To see what happens to the pup, check out the full story in the video below. Joe and his friends are amazing!

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The post Man Hurries To Pull Dog Out Of Cave Before Storm Hits But Fails appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

A 10-month-old Great Pyrenees has always been loyal and protective around her family. She’s always by their sides, and she loves cuddling with them. However, her humans never anticipated that she would one day save their lives.

Willow always greets her humans at the door, so when Caitlyn Radel-Paaby didn’t see her puppy when she entered the home, she grew worried. She checked on her boyfriend and infant son, but Willow wasn’t in the room with them either. Eventually, she found Willow lying under a desk in the office. Willow never rests there, and she looked very concerned.

Something Isn’t Right

Willow wouldn’t come out from under the desk, and she kept nervously barking. When Caitlyn got closer, she saw that the puppy was staring at an outlet. Caitlyn couldn’t figure out what her furry friend was trying to say.

“[She] went under the desk and started acting really nervous and barking and wouldn’t come out,” Caitlyn said. “She even got a little defensive to get our attention and that’s when we noticed the outlet.”

Eventually, Caitlyn touched the wall near the outlet and realized it was very warm. She soon discovered that a small fire developed in the electrical outlet and Willow had sniffed it out before it had started.

Caitlyn called the fire department, who arrived at the home as quickly as possible to put out the fire. If it weren’t for Willow’s concerns, the family wouldn’t have noticed the fire until it was too late.

Willow Saves Her Family!

The fire department told the family that if Willow hadn’t pointed out the fire, the house would’ve burst into flames overnight. Sweet little Willow saved her family’s lives!

“She had never done anything like this, and we were shocked,” Caitlyn said. “She is always making sure her human brother is safe, and she clings to me like crazy and usually will alert if something is off but never anything serious until the outlet.”

RELATED: Grateful “Foster Fail” Dog Saves Her Family Of Six From Devastating House Fire

Thanks to Willow’s quick thinking, nothing in the home was harmed. All the humans and their belongings were safe from the flames. Many dogs can be trained to detect fire and flammable fuels, but Willow didn’t need any training to know what to do.

The incident happened shortly before Thanksgiving, so when the family gathered to say what they were thankful for, they all turned toward their loyal puppy. Willow is not only her family’s best friend, but now she’s also their hero!

Featured Image: Instagram

The post Puppy Won’t Stop Barking At Outlet Until Family Realizes They’re In Danger appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

Killer the Bichon Frise may look like a harmless, cuddly bundle of joy, but he’s got some serious warrior spirit! He always behaves so well when his humans are around. But that all changes once they leave and he knows it – the home security camera catches him letting loose with plenty of wild energy every time!😆

Source (Screenshot) credit: Rumble Viral – YouTube

When Killer confirms that his family has left, he grabs his favorite plush toy and shuffles into the living room. One would anticipate this solitary boy to simply cuddle with it in solace, but alas! His concept of entertainment is much more exhilarating (and action-packed)!

Source (Screenshot) credit: Rumble Viral – YouTube

Watching Killer transform into an animated gladiator to duel with his ‘opponent’ (a stuffed toy) never fails to make us laugh. He begins by throwing the lifeless object across the room and barking fiercely as if he’s determined to emerge victoriously from a real battle in his mind! It’s almost as if all of those imaginary fight scenes are coming alive right before our eyes!

Source (Screenshot) credit: Rumble Viral – YouTube

In the climax of the video, Killer even imagines searching for his invisible foe before “defeating” it. It’s incredible to consider how creative he can be! His name perfectly fits him; with all of his intensity and bravery, we are certain that if an intruder appears, Killer will swoop in and handle it like a champion!

If you see ONE THING today, make it this, trust me! 🤣 Click on the video below and let the chaos ensue!

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The post ‘Good Boy’ Gone Wild: Unleashes His Wild Side When He’s Left Alone At Home appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

Our mothers are always right (or most of the time), and as kids, we should look to our parents for guidance. Similarly in the animal kingdom, maternal instincts compel moms to lead and educate their young. When baby animals require help – they know exactly where to turn!

Image/Story (Screenshot) Credit: Husky Overload via Facebook Video

Mama Husky believes it’s high time her puppies master the art of howling, so she starts off with a serenade of her own. Next thing you know, the sweetest chorus of tiny little howls echoes through the air!

Image/Story (Screenshot) Credit: Husky Overload via Facebook Video

Midway through the howling session, there is a moment of silence until a small pup revives it with an eager yelp. This commences another round of harmonious Husky singing and each dog appears to be picking up on their newfound talent promptly.

You’re going to want to turn up your volume for this level of cuteness! Click the video below for a melody sure to make your day! 😍

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The post Husky Mama Teaches Her Pup To Howl With An ‘Adorable’ Coaching Session appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

When a soldier left for a many-month deployment to Kuwait, her family’s German Shepherd was still a young puppy. So when she got home, Seiko the Shepherd wasn’t quite sure who was at the door. After all, dogs don’t recognize you by your looks. But once her pup was able to get a good long sniff, she knew exactly who she was. 

And she couldn’t contain her excitement that she was finally home.

Some canines can’t contain themselves when you leave the room for a mere minute, never mind the excitement they must feel after you return from a year-long deployment. But when Seiko’s sister finally returned after a year away, she didn’t initially know who she was. 

I don’t know about you, but I’ve always expected a dog’s excitement to begin the moment they laid eyes on their long-lost loved one. But, it’s humans who recognize each other by sight. Dogs recognize their pack members more by smell and sound. The freak-out finally began when Seiko got a good whiff and heard her sister speak.

Of course, when the reunion video was shared on YouTube, it went viral. Clips of soldiers reuniting with their pets are incredibly heartwarming to witness, and this video is so sweet and wholesome.

The video begins with Bailey wearing her uniform and standing alone at the front door. The videographer pans to the right, and we see Seiko come running down the hall. The Shepherd runs to the door but jumps and shows some hesitation. Then, she extends her nose to give Bailey a sniff, barks, and backs up. She’s confused as to who is standing at the door. 

Then, once her sister speaks, and Seiko has had a few moments to get in a good sniff, she knows exactly who is standing there. Suddenly, Seiko starts covering her in puppy kisses, with her tail wagging like crazy. Seiko even jumps-up and puts her paws on Bailey’s shoulders. Her enthusiasm is evident, and she can’t stop spinning, sniffing, and kissing her long-lost sister.

Bailey is so happy to be back, and she smiles as she loves-up on, scratches, and plays with sweet Seiko. Seiko may not have recognized her sister at first, but once she did, it was so obvious that she was incredibly glad Bailey was back home. At the end of the video, she even starts running back and forth, bringing her toys!

You can check out the smile-inducing video below.

Featured Image: YouTube

The post Soldier Returns From Deployment And Nervous Dog Sniffs, Then Attacks appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

Mutual Rescue (trademark of Humane Society Silicon Valley) presents the story of Eric and Peety. Eric was told by his doctor that he had five years to live. But everything changed after he went to the shelter and adopted Peety…

Source (Screenshot) credit: Mutual Rescue – YouTube

“Eric weighed 340 pounds and was diagnosed with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and Type II Diabetes. His doctor told him he had 5 years to live. Then he met Peety—and everything changed.”

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The post Man’s told he has 5 years to live, so he goes to a shelter and asks for an ‘obese, middle-aged dog’ appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

Even though animals can’t speak to humans, they show their love and gratitude in other ways. Dogs, cats, and other pets often show humans how they’re feeling through actions and body language, but as it turns out, wild animals can do it too.

In a series of heartwarming Twitter posts, a group of rangers saves a baby elephant’s life. The elephant’s adorable reaction afterward shows that he truly recognizes and appreciates what those humans did for him. Animals are more incredible than people often give them credit for!

Humans Rescue Baby Elephant

Parveen Kaswan, an Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer, helps a lot of animals while working. Elephants are some of the animals he encounters the most, and they’re gentle giants that form strong bonds with their family members.

So, when an officer saw the baby elephant alone without a mother in sight, he knew the calf was in danger. A group of park rangers earned the baby elephant’s trust so they could lead him to a safer area and help him find his mom.

RELATED: Heartwarming Video Shows Unexpected Animals Asking Humans For Help

Someone posted a video of the rescue, which shows the small elephant following a group of humans without hesitation. The elephant seems to understand that they are good people trying to help him.

Even though it doesn’t show it in the video, the elephant was eventually reunited with his mother thanks to the help of the rangers. Baby elephants need a lot of care and companionship from their moms, so without an elephant to care for him, that baby wouldn’t have survived.

Baby Elephant Shows His Gratitude

The baby elephant seemed to understand that the humans’ kind gestures saved his life. So, before returning to his elephant family, he wanted to say ‘thank you’ to the humans. As a way to do that, he reached his trunk out and hugged a ranger’s leg. Kaswan posted the adorable photo on Twitter, where it melted the hearts of thousands of animal lovers.

“Love has no language. A baby elephant hugging a forest officer. The team rescued this calf & reunited with mother,” Kaswan wrote on Twitter.

Even though helping animals is likely a part of the rangers’ jobs, their actions still saved a life. That adorable little elephant is now happy and safe thanks to their efforts. After seeing this adorable post, everyone is probably wishing a baby elephant would hug them too!

Watch the Rangers Lead the Elephant to Safety:

pic.twitter.com/W4hsf1Ryie

— Basha Nasir (@BashaNasir91) October 14, 2021

Featured Image: Twitter

The post Grateful Baby Elephant Hugs The Man Who Saved His Life appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

20 Best Foods for German Shepherds with Diarrhea

Mine was the same. They have very sensitive tummy’s. I feed diamond natural. Only treats with natural ingredients. No people food or rawhide. I also us a spray probiotic on his food every day. No diarrhea since I made changes. Thank goodness. Good luck.

Author: Rhonda B.

Likes: 9

Our boy had a very sensitive tummy. Got him tested and spoke to his breeder chicken was the biggest culprit (it’s more what chickens are fed) and it is in everything. Once we took it out his diet he was fine – food was duck potato and pea kibble. Treats were bunny lugs, duck neck, duck feet and bug baits!!

Author: Lynne C.

Likes: 2

My German Shepards started this and went into critical condition. She was tested and we found out the enzymes in her pancreas has failed. She is now on Royal Canin gastrointestinal food and I have to sprinkle it with enzymes every time she eats. Also I give her a vitamin B12 supplement daily. From what the emergency vet told us, this is very common in Shepards.

Author: Chris M.

Likes: 5

We feed are dog purina dog chow high in protein and enzymes diane, she had trouble with her stomach and diarrhea and since we have done this she has improved 100%.

Author: Kelli M.

Likes: 10

I give mine Purina Pro Plan Sensitive skin and Stomach Salmon Adult Large breed Dog food it works good on mine .

Author: Arthur T.

Likes: 34

Just sharing don’t know if it will work for your petkid it always did mine of course if there is nothing else causing the problem. Vet years ago recommended this. Boil hamburger meat drain well start out in small amounts with small feedings a few times a day then graduate to putting a little white rice (not brown) with it. If this is just a normal digestive glitch you should start seeing a change in about 3 days. Then add yogurt like a couple tablespoons per feeding. Good luck!

Author: Julie L.

Likes: 8

Have you tried Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal food. Our boy is 6 yrs old and has the best poop of his entire life since we tried that food. Also he may need probiotics. More fiber may help. Pure canned pumpkin and green beans are good fiber. Have you checked for parasites?

Author: LindaMarie K.

Likes: 1

Honest Kitchen is good for dogs with sensitive stomachs. We had a GSD that was allergic to almost everything including most dog foods. We found one their recipes had none of his allergens and it worked well for him. Additionally, you should talk to your veterinarian. Our one GSD gets diarrhea on and off and our vet prescribes a round of metronidazole for her. You will need to bring in a stool sample most likely but metronidazole is often prescribed for intestinal issues.

Author: Marie Johnson C.

Likes: 1

My GSD used to have a sensitive stomach. I started Hills science diet adult dry food. Works great. I still give her white rice and boiled chicken time to time.

Author: Audrey J.

Likes: 0

Very sensitive bellies for sure the white rice and chic good I feed EN purina works great and then use canned EN purina also on occasion if needed

Author: Joanne F.

Likes: 1

I work in the pet food industry and in this situation I would recommend one check with your vet first to make sure there’s no underlying conditions. Number two switch to pet kind beef tripe kibble this is a limited ingredient diet with all the probiotics that a dog would need to have. Healthy stool and a healthy gut. I would keep him on it until you see a big difference which could take up to 2 weeks but usually less. You have a choice to stay on this for a while or you can try switching to another food which I feed because my dog is very sensitive is the duck and oats first mate. Good luck!

Author: Debby P.

Likes: 2

We switched our sensitive girl to Fromm dog food. She loved it. Her skin and coat improved drastically and normal bowel movements. It smelled good too.

Author: Pamela L.

Likes: 0

I add acidophilus or probiotics, usually works. I get the capsules so its easy to pull apart & sprinkle on their food. I make homemade & give them 1/2 homemade & 1/2 canned. Homemade with a little cheese, eggs, green beans, carrots, brown rice, chicken livers & corned beef or chicken trying to provide a variety of vitamins, minerals, protein, etc. In my experience they stay pretty regular.

Author: Sandy B.

Likes: 0

I tried everything for 2 years until finally Royal Canin gastrointestinal came into our life. Its a vet prescription and pricey, but it was like night and day. No more diarrhea. Also, Hills Prescription Diet for Digestive care. We use this now because it’s less expensive. Good luck

Author: Kristine W.

Likes: 0

My Girl was allergic to chicken. Horrid diarrhea. We got her switched over to Natural Balance – fish and sweet potato.

Author: Melissa Cozad M.

Likes: 0

For us, Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream. We do not deviate from his food, ever. The only treats we give him are peanut butter, grain free treats. Special occasion he will get a piece of leftover chicken or steak. Give your GSD chicken and rice to help with the diarrhea then get him on a good solid food. We strayed with the special royal canine food for GSD and it was awful for him

Author: Andrea N.

Likes: 1

Canidae Salmon and sweet potatoes stopped my GSD from chronic diarrhea. It took about 2 weeks to work but it was well worth the 2 week wait.

Author: Sherry H.

Likes: 0

I had mine allergy tested and she was allergic to lamb, duck, rice, barley, soy and a whole slew of vegetables. There wasn’t any dog food that I could feed her. I fed her ground deer, chicken, eggs, liver, gizzards, turkey, salmon, beef and pork. I cooked her egg noodles and cream of wheat with butter and mixed cooked or raw meat in with it. Also eggs mixed into cream of wheat and at times I added sugar. No more diarrhea, red inflamed skin and scratching stopped.

Author: Gina M.

Likes: 0

Mine too! She has ever disincentive she was a little puppy. Some German Shepherd dogs have very sensitive stomachs. Whenever she has a part of diarrhea give her boiled rice and boiled chicken. She is on a prescription diet Purina Gastro EN. That seems to work well. And other than that she’s really restricted on everything she eats because everything upsets her stomach. She does seem to manage to do well with dried liver treats.

Author: Sthua S.

Likes: 0

Store brand basic imodium (teeny mint green pill) follow the dosage directions for children. A couple of tablespoons of Applesauce (no sugar added) to help settle their tummy. I have always had to put it on a spoon and drop it into my pups mouth. Boiled chicken (or Salmon if Chicken is an issue) and rice mixture…instead of kibble to get some good food down. As for food. I feed Muenster Dog food and have for each of my GSD’S

Author: Jennifer B.

Likes: 0

Always consult your vet before making any health changes to your german shepherd’s diet, especially if they frequently suffer from diarrhea, as there may be other medical issues that need to be addressed. iHeartDogs is reader supported, so some of the links above may be affiliate links where we receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

The post 20 Best Foods for a German Shepherd with Diarrhea appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

Maple, the sweetest Pittie, was dumped on a freeway. Justine, her mommy, believes she was used as a bait dog. Justine saw Maple online and submitted an application. She believed Maple was meant to be hers for a very good reason.

Justine’s beloved Pit Bull recently passed away. She had a hole in her heart and space in her home to adopt a new pup to add to her pack. Thankfully her application went through and she drove 8 hours away to meet Maple and her foster mom. When Justine arrived, she knew instantly that Maple belonged with her and Maple felt the same way!

When Maple came home with Justine, she was severely underweight. Justine worked hard to get Maple as healthy as possible… and she now weighs 60 pounds! Maple loves her doggy siblings, especially when they go on adventures together.

Meet Maple in the video below! Her story is a reminder of how important it is to adopt– and NEVER shop! So many deserving animals need forever homes and they’re waiting for loving people just like you!

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The post Unloved Pit Bull Was Dumped On Freeway But It Was A Blessing appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

When an animal lover is in a position of power, they sometimes choose to change the policies that are in place, so that they can improve their quality of life. This is exactly what motivated The Netherland’s National Government to propose a ban on dogs with flat faces and cats with folded ears. 

They claim that these are some external characteristics that are harmful and lead to life-long suffering.

The idea behind the ban is that some external characteristics, such as flat faces, short snouts, and folded ears, may make an animal more aesthetically pleasing. But, because an animal possesses these attributes, they are subject to suffering. The ban is aimed at preventing this suffering. 

“This subject affects me not only as a Minister but also as a person. We make life miserable for innocent animals purely because we think they are beautiful and cute. That is why today we are taking a big step towards a Netherlands where no pet has to suffer from their appearance,” said Dutch Agriculture Minister Piet Adema in a statement.

When a dog has a flat-face, they are described as being brachycephalic, and they often experience breathing problems, compromised heart health, struggle with skin and ear infections, and have neurological issues. 

Not only is the ban aimed at owning an animal with these attributes, but trading, and importing will be affected as well. 

Dutch government officials wanted to make the announcement ahead of the potential ban, so that families who are currently considering adopting a new furry family member may factor in this new ruling when making their decision. 

They are currently creating a list of the animals that could potentially be banned, but no “official” details have yet been released. A few dog breeds that have these characteristics include: French bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, Pugs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Shih Tzus and Boxers.  

 If this is passed, pet parents who currently have an animal that is included in the ban will be allowed to keep them until they cross the rainbow bridge. A secondary ban, that is also being proposed, will prevent the same animals from being shown in advertisements. 

“Seeing a certain type of pet frequently or prominently often increases demand for it,” said the Ministry regarding the subject.

When it comes to the cats with folded ears, they fall into the Scottish Fold breed and their “adorable ears” are the result of a genetic mutation. Unfortunately, the cat’s ears aren’t the only thing affected, and the mutation can result in a life of suffering. 

“This inherited cartilage defect causes other deformities throughout the body and is a dominant trait, meaning all kittens in the litter will be affected,” said the RSPCA in Australia.

Some cats have even become completely crippled, and some serious abnormalities can include arthritis, thick and inflexible tails, spinal issues, and short and stiff legs. 

Even when attempts were made to create a healthier cat by mixing with other breeds, the devastating effects of the disease still presented in both anatomy and behavior. 

Both bans are complex and will take time to work out, but Adema wants citizens to know that changes are coming, and that the Ministry is determined to do what is best for the animals.

The post The Netherlands Is Working To Ban Flat-Nosed Dogs And Folded-Ear Cats appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.

2-year-old Boomer is a Pit Bull mix that should weigh about 50 pounds, but he currently only weighs 20 pounds. When rescuers found him, he was so malnourished that he couldn’t stand up, and he was also blind. His body twitched uncontrollably, but his eyes pleaded for help.

Boomer’s condition was so severe because he was confined to a small cage without food for days. He would’ve died if he went any longer without medical attention. So, One By One Animal Advocates took him in so he could have a fighting chance, but they still need the community’s help more than ever.

Boomer Arrives on the Brink of Death

Boomer was weak, filthy, and covered in fleas. It was an emotional situation, but his rescuers tried to think logically about the next steps for him. However, when they saw him wag his tail despite his situation, they knew they had to try everything they could to give him a better life.

“He is one of the worst cases they have seen but, while we were discussing options, he gave a little thump of his tail almost as if he were saying, ‘I’ll fight, if you’ll help me.’ That tail thump broke everyone’s heart, and we collectively agreed he deserves every chance we can give him,” One By One wrote.

RELATED: Emaciated Puppy Found Outside Shelter In Box That Says “Help Me”

So, the organization came up with a plan that involved small specialized meals, medication, IV fluids, supplements, blood work, and supportive care to get him back into shape. Despite being so sick and underweight, Boomer responded positively to the treatment and seemed eager to keep fighting.

Kindness Saves Boomer’s Life!

After only a few weeks of care, things are already starting to look up for Boomer. He is maintaining weight and now walking on his own. He also seems to have some vision now. He’s very cuddly and affectionate, and he has such a strong will to live.

“Just checking in to tell you I have gained a whole pound, and everyone seems to be very excited! They also said it’s time for me to have more big boy calories, and I think that sounds awesome! Gotta go eat!” ‘Boomer’ wrote in a Facebook post.

Boomer has made lots of progress since his intake day, but he still has a long way to go, and his recovery will be expensive. So, iHeartDogs is hosting a fundraiser to help Boomer get the best care possible. Consider donating to help this wonderful pup live his best life!

Featured Image: Facebook

The post Blind Pup Confined To A Cage Without Food Finally Sees Better Days appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.