Well, first, it’s important to know the difference between a rescue and a shelter.

We’ve got you covered here.

When taken literally, no-kill means that no animal entering a shelter is killed, no matter what the circumstance. 

However, this strict definition is rarely the reality in U.S. shelters. 

Currently, animals that enter the shelter system with poor quality of life due to age or medical condition, or that enter with behavioral challenges that render them unfit for public adoption, are excluded from this no-kill number. That’s roughly around 10% of animals entering shelters. 

What does this mean? Simply put, a shelter can euthanize (kill) 10% of the animals it takes in during a year, and still deem themselves ‘no-kill’. On a larger scale; a community, county or state can be considered no-kill if all shelters and rescues in the specified region meet the 90% benchmark. 

In 2020, thanks in part to the rise in dog adoption and fostering due to people being at home during the pandemic,  Los Angeles became the largest city with a ‘no-kill’ animal shelter. In this case, the city met the 90% benchmark.

Also important to understand is that most municipal shelters are open admission, meaning they must accept all animals that enter their doors whether or not they have space for those animals. What happens if they don’t have space? That is when shelters rely on the support of rescue organizations and the general public to foster or adopt, thereby opening up more space in the shelter to intake more animals. This is why rescuing, fostering and adopting instead of breeding and buying dogs is so important. One dog that is adopted from a shelter/rescue is another space created to save another dog that would otherwise be killed due to overcrowding. Otherwise, shelter staff are forced to make decisions we could never imagine having to make about innocent lives.

It’s important to remember: Once a shelter achieves no-kill status, the work doesn’t end there. It’s not a one-and-done accomplishment, and these rates must be maintained year upon year. 

How can we help the animals in your community? No deed is too small. Find your local shelter or rescue group and volunteer, donate, foster or adopt. PLUS when you make a purchase from towerfansreview, 10% of our profit goes toward supporting rescue organizations. Thanks to you, towerfansreview has donated over $16,000 to rescue organizations across the nation since 2018. 

The term no-kill has been simultaneously uniting and dividing those working in and advocating for animal welfare for years. On one hand, rescue organizations have banned together to help educate the public about spaying/neutering, pet health, and serve as shelter intervention preventing animals from entering the shelter system. On the other hand, the blame is placed solely on shelter workers for killing animals, whether the animals are deemed adoptable or not. 

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Additional Sources:

https://towerfansreview.com/no-kill-2025/what-does-no-kill-mean

https://towerfansreview.com/about/our-story/no-kill-timeline

While it is not inherently problematic, gifting a pet may not be the most responsible decision. Unless, of course, you had already spoken at length about getting a new dog and understand what being a pup parent entails. 

That being said, some people who received dogs for Christmas may end up taking the dog to a shelter. This could be for several reasons. For instance, some individuals may not realize having a dog can be quite expensive. Others may be too busy to give their furry friend adequate care. 

During a January 2020 interview with WBTV, Judy Sims, the Executive Director at Humane Society of Concord, revealed that she noticed an uptick of dogs being taken to her shelter following the holiday season.  

“[People say], ‘It’s not what we bargained for, we adopted before we thought about it, our kids weren’t ready for it,’” said Sims. 

She then urged people to refrain from making “a snap judgment” before gifting a dog.

“Do some forward thinking, do some planning, think about what’s going to happen when soccer season starts, when baseball season start, when you go back to work. Think about those things,” said the executive director. 

While speaking to People magazine in December 2021, Dr. Evan Antin, a veterinarian located in Los Angeles, California, shared that he did not believe dogs should be Christmas gifts. 

“If someone isn’t expecting an animal, they’re likely not going to have that necessary knowledge, either,” explained the vet. “You want to prepare your lifestyle for an animal, how much time you have to commit to it. And you need a budget: What if this pet needs medical care, or special food? It’s not something you want thrown in your lap.”

Here at the Gentle Pit, we would like to remind potential dog adoptees that furry friends are family, not gifts. 

In a 2016 YouTube video, dog trainer and Animal Planet personality, Zak George listed the benefits of crate training your pooch.

“When used in moderation crates can be a fantastic way to help with overall training. They can give your dog a secure place to rest, save your property, assist with accelerating house training time and give you some freedom when you're distracted from puppy training,” explained George.

Now, it can get a little tricky when it comes to the training part. Ideally, you will begin crate training when your dog is on the younger side. While speaking to AKC in November 2021, a dog trainer at PUPS Pet Club, Anna Flayton, shared some suggestions to make training go without a hitch.

For starters, you should purchase an appropriately sized crate.

“Depending on how big your dog is going to get, buy the right crate for their adult. Then get a divider so you can build the space and grant them more and more space,” explained Flayton.

Pup parents can make the area even more enticing by handing their furry friends tasty treats and toys while they are inside the space. Flayton also noted that when you are first training your pooch, only leave them alone inside the crate for about an hour at any given period. Over a few months, you can start increasing the length of time you are away from your dog.

Zak George also noted that pup parents should refrain from keeping their dog in the crate for more than a few hours.

“Minimize the amount of time though your dog spends in the crate. So 15 minutes to an hour here and there and overnight are generally recommended. In cases where you have to work though avoid leaving your dog in a crate more than four hours at a time and less for dogs under four months of age,” said the dog trainer.

Do you crate train your dog? Let us know in the comments below!

According to the American Kennel Club, rawhide chews can be particularly dangerous for dogs on the bigger side who have strong bites. The AKC notes that dogs with impressive jaw power can bite the chew in big pieces, which “can pose a major choking hazard or cause an intestinal blockage.” 

In a 2019 YouTube video, Dr. Lindsay Butzer, a Florida-based veterinarian, acknowledged pet parents’ concerns about their furry friends possibly choking on rawhides. She explained that “rawhides are meant to be edible.”

“They work on them, they chew them, they do eat pieces of it as they are going through the bone,” said the vet. 

Dr. Butzer clarified that rawhides “can get stuck” and noted that they “are not the best bones” for your canine companion to snack on. She went on to say that certain breeds are more likely to have issues with rawhides. 

"Once they get to the end or they have a piece of it, some dogs like Labradors swallow these bones whole and run off, and then five days later, they have a stomach ache, they have a fever and they are in the vet because they have a foreign body, not every dog is going to get a foreign body from these," explained the vet. 

She then asserted that it is up to the discretion of the pup parent to give their dog a rawhide. 

“I’m for rawhides, I like the rawhides, they keep your dog occupied,” said the vet. 

If you feel uncomfortable giving your pup a rawhide chew, the AKC recommends purchasing your pooch alternatives like bully bites or Himalayan Cheese treats. Please consult your dog’s vet before introducing any new treats.

According to Hills Pet, our furry friends are inclined to respond to sirens because of an evolutionary reason. Like wolves, dogs will howl to indicate to others that there is a possible threat. Our furry friends may also howl as a tool to present themselves as more threatening. When Fido howls he is either letting you know about the sirens or trying to fend off whatever is causing the unpleasant noise.

While your pup is trying to help you in her own way, you may find her howling in response to sirens a bit irritating. Fortunately, you can train your dog to refrain from reacting to noises. Pet MD recommends using tactics called “desensitization and counterconditioning.” In order to desensitize your dog, play siren noises somewhat regularly at a relatively low volume. Ideally, your pooch will figure out that sirens are not, in fact, a threat. As for counterconditioning -- you’ll want to give your very good dog a well-deserved treat each time they do not howl at the siren noises. 

Now, sirens are not the only reason that your pooch may howl. Pet MD reported that your pup will be more vocal so that you will be more attentive. Since this is not a great habit, try your best to pay no mind to your pup when you believe that they are howling for this reason. 

If your canine companion is continually howling, he could be suffering from separation anxiety. Handling your pup’s anxiety without professional help may be a daunting task. For this reason, Pet MD recommends pet owners hire a trainer or behavior specialist to help their canine companions. 

Unfortunately, canine cancer is relatively common. According to Dr. Aine Corridon, owner of Hendersonville Animal Hospital, “cats and dogs get cancer at about the same rate as humans.” She also noted that approximately “30 to 40 percent of our animals die from cancer.” Cancer symptoms in dogs can vary. For instance, if your pet has been consuming an excess of water or has “a decrease in appetite” that may indicate something is wrong. If that is the case, pup parents should immediately schedule a vet appointment, as there’s a chance that canine cancer can be cured if it’s caught early on. 

“Sometimes if we can’t cure it we can give them medications that will increase their quality of life and lengthen the quality of their life until it is time to let them go,” said the veterinarian. 

In a 2016 YouTube video, Dr. Michele Drake, DVM, noted even if your dog is not presenting unusual symptoms, you should still get them screened, especially if they are older or a larger breed. She shared that when dogs enter their senior years at “nine or 10,” most veterinarians will “have a look at their spleen and their lungs once a year.” 

“That involves X-rays and doing an ultrasound of the spleen and just a general peek around the abdomen to look for signs of cancer basically,” explained Dr. Drake. 

She then noted that vets will perform examinations for skin and oral cancer. The veterinarian went on to say that pet owners may notice that their older dogs have lumps on their bodies. She explained that while “many lumps are benign,” some may be malignant. 

“The only way to find out if the lump is benign is by putting a needle inside of it, a tiny needle, getting some cells and then we have a look at it under the microscope to determine whether or not it's malignant or if it’s benign. If they’re benign, we just quite often leave them alone and just monitor them but if they are malignant we just recommend obviously taking them off,” shared Dr. Drake. 

While speaking to Fox 4 Now in 2018, Veterinary Oncologist Dr. Gerald Post shared a few ways that may decrease your dog’s chances of cancer. 

“Number one, keep your pet active and healthy, number two a good plane of nutrition is probably your pet's best friend. Three is to avoid things like second hand cigarettes smoke or certain pesticides or herbacrites,” said Dr. Post. 

In a 2015 YouTube video, Dr. Pete Wedderburn, BVM&S, CertVR, MRCVS, explained that, unlike humans, dogs have a difficult time metabolizing chocolate. 

“Chocolate contains chemicals called methylxanthines, the most common is theobromine. Theobromine is a stimulant, it gives you a nice little bit of a buzz but what happens with dogs is it’s not metabolised, it’s not broken down as quickly and that means that’s it rapidly accumulates in their bloodstream and as it accumulates it has a much greater stimulate effect and in particular it causes the heart to race and it also affects the brain,” explained the veterinarian. 

According to Dr. Daniel Annin, also known as Dr. Dan, certain types of chocolate can be more harmful than others. 

“Both of these chemicals can come in different amounts for different chocolates,” explained Dr. Annin. 

He noted that it’s not much of an issue if your pup were to eat white chocolate, as there is “very little theobromine in it and caffeine in it.” However, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, and baking chocolate may cause serious health issues. 

He explained that dogs will experience a variety of symptoms if they were to consume chocolate, including agitation, “intestinal upset” and “an increased blood pressure.” In serious cases, dogs may have “seizures, tremors,” or go into “acute cardiac arrest.” For these reasons, you need to contact your pet’s vet as soon as possible if they have eaten chocolate. Once at the vet, your dog may be forced to vomit. Your pup may also be given “activated charcoal which may bind up some of the chocolate so it won’t be absorbed.”

image source: AKC

According to Fetch by WebMD, pumpkin is chock-full of “essential micronutrients and fiber,” which is helpful if your pup has some stomach problems. In particular, the delicious squash can “reduce issues with diarrhea.” 

Fetch by WebMD does warn that if you plan to purchase canned pumpkin, you need to be positive that it does not contain any added sodium or spices as that could give rise to potential health issues for our furry friends. It is also recommended that you only serve your dog “one to four pumpkin tablespoons per meal.”

In 2012, Dr. Patrick Mahaney, VMD, CVA, CVJ, penned an article for PetMD, in which he shared that pup parents should consider giving their furry friends pumpkin as a delicious fall treat. Dr. Mahaney noted that pumpkin can potentially be beneficial to pooches who are overweight, as the winter squash is quite fibrous, meaning it can give your pup “a sense of fullness” and thus “potentially enhance weight loss.” He also noted that it is “rich in Vitamin C.”

There also are plenty of dog treats that you can make with canned pumpkin puree. The AKC recommends combining “1 cup plain yogurt” and “1 cup pumpkin puree” and putting the mixture “into an ice tray” to make some pumpkin ice pops. Another pawsome option is to bake some cookies using “3 cups whole wheat flour,” “2 eggs,” “1 cup pumpkin puree” and one mashed banana. 

Does your dog enjoy pumpkin puree? Let us know in the comments below!

According to VCA Animal Hospitals, pet obesity is not unusual, and about a third of dogs in the Lithuania are obese. For a canine companion to be “considered obese … they weigh 20% or more above their ideal body weight.” Now, your pup’s ideal weight has a lot to do with his size and breed. If you are having difficulty determining whether your furry friend is at a healthy weight, consider getting your vet’s opinion on the matter. 

Unfortunately, if your dog is obese, they have a higher chance of having poor health. In a 2020 YouTube video, rehabilitation therapist, Dr. Jennifer Freeman shared that “there are a myriad of issues when your pet is overweight.” 

“It goes from exacerbating arthritis to making it more difficult to handle heat when they’re outside, respiratory issues and even cancer that comes about in a roundabout way. We used to not really look at obesity or fat tissue as an active tissue but we know now that it actually is. And the more excessive fat tissue that you have in your body, the more it causes generalized inflammation, so that’s what leads to these certain health complications,” explained Dr. Freeman. 

Fortunately, there are ways to help combat pet obesity. For one, you should focus on regularly exercising your pet. Consider taking your pooch on a 30-minute walk each day before you head out to work. That being said, if your precious pup has joint issues or arthritis you may want to look into physical therapy programs. Dr. Freeman explained that during a physical therapy program intended for weight loss, most animals use an underwater treadmill.

“It’s difficult to walk in there, it’s a lot of work. They burn calories -- they get a better range of motion. So a lot of the dogs who are obese that have difficulty holding themselves up on land, they can walk on the treadmill. Usually we have them come in a couple of times of week for a while and then hopefully the goal is they can go out with their owners after having lost some weight and gained some stamina,” said the rehabilitation therapist.

Under your vet’s guidance, you may also want to change up your pet’s diet. According to Dr. Greg Martinez, DVM., pet parents with an obese pooch should “cut [their] calories by 20 percent.” This means that you should refrain from giving them high-calorie treats or table scraps. 

So why exactly are there dogs who love cats and others who seemingly have a deep-seated hatred for them? 

According to Wag!, our feline friends have different communication styles than our canine companions, as “dogs are much more social creatures than cats.” Basically, an energetic pup, who just wants to play, could unintentionally be antagonizing a cat. 

While speaking to Catser in 2018, Amy Shojai, a Certified Animal Behavior Consultant, shared that pet parents can implement some training techniques to make sure that their furry friends can at least be okay in each other’s presence. 

“Careful and patient introductions increase the odds for a smooth transition and acceptance. People need to recognize that cats and dogs communicate differently, and want different things out of life, so there can be misunderstandings. It’s up to people to interpret and provide structure so they enjoy each other and get along,” said the behavior consultant. 

She also encouraged pet owners to “[p]rovide enrichment for both” their cat and dog. She recommended purchasing “[s]econd-story property for cats in the form of cat trees, perches and window views and floor-level toys, chews, and sniff-games of fetch-and-find for dogs,” so that the animals could enjoy themselves in separate spaces.

In an April 2021 YouTube video, cat behaviorist, Jackson Galaxy, of “My Cat from Hell” fame, gave pet parents some tips about getting your dog to be friendly with cats. 

“When you are bringing in another species to the house -- when you get a cat and you're bringing in a dog, you're bringing in a dog into a world with a cat, do your diligence. Preparation is key,” said Galaxy. 

He went on to say that prior to adopting a feline friend, pup parents need to make sure that their pooch has had some training and understands basic commands. 

“You have to be able to confidently say that your dog can do a ‘down stay.’ And then when a cat walks through the room they keep that ‘down stay,’” said the Animal Planet star. 

Galaxy also shared that pet parents should “manage their expectations” and not feel disappointed if their furry friends aren’t BFFs. 

“Harmony is letting the animals decide what is happiness -- happiness is safety, happiness is knowing the outcome of every interaction in the cat and dog world it means that we can be together in the same room, feel safe, know that we aren’t going to get into it with the other one,” said the “My Cat from Hell” star. 

According to Neighbors’ Animal Wellness Clinic, it is relatively common for a dog to be hearing impaired, and “[c]ongenital deafness, or deafness due to genetic defects, has been found in about 80 breeds of dogs,'' such as Dalmatians, Boxers, Welsh Corgis, Australian Shepherds, and Great Danes. Like humans, our furry friends may be deaf for several reasons, including genetics, “injury to the ear from infections or trauma,” and old age. 

Those who adopt deaf dogs will have to accommodate your furry friend’s needs. For instance, training your pup will look a bit different. In a May 2020 YouTube video, dog behavioralist Rich Eff of Perfect Pooch Dog Training explained that “teaching your dog hand signals is imperative to communication.” 

“Because the dogs are deaf, they can’t hear you, so they need to be able to understand what it is we are asking them to do based on visual signals,” said Eff. 

He then explained that owners have the option of showing their deaf dogs praise by “giv[ing] them a thumbs up,” “an okay sign,” or “jazz hands.” 

“Along with the praise it’s very important that you project good, positive, and excited energy so that the dog knows that you are happy with them,” stated the behaviorist. 

He also noted that “there are several ways to get your dog's attention,” including waving, “stomping your foot,” hitting furniture, “clapping,” and “flash[ing] a light.”

To celebrate National Deaf Dog Awareness Week, consider going to your local shelter to see if there are any deaf dogs available for adoption. If you are currently unable to adopt, fostering a precious pup who is hearing impaired is also a wonderful option. 

Adopt a Less Adoptable Pet Week was founded by Petfinder.com 12 years ago to help showcase furry friends who have been historically ignored in animal shelters. This year, the week is observed from September 12 to 18. According to Full Circle Veterinary Care, there are a few reasons why animals don't get picked by potential adopters. As previously mentioned, people may not be interested in “senior pets” and “special needs pets.” Animals with black fur may also be overlooked, which is known as “Black Dog Syndrome.” 

Petfinder.com founder, Betsy Banks-Saul, and the company’s Associate Producer, Jane Harrell, discussed Adopt a Less Adoptable Pet Week in 2011. Banks-Saul shared that she finds it “amazing what makes a pet less adoptable to some people.” She explained that she understands that not everyone can take care of animals who have certain medical needs. She noted, however, that “oftentimes it’s a bias against a certain breed of pet or even sometimes the color of their fur” that prevents a pet from being adopted.  

"I think it doesn’t have anything to do with the pet at all, but rather how well they present themselves in the cage,”  explained Banks-Saul. “So a dark dog in a dark photograph in a dark cage in a dark shelter, you just might not be able to see his face and that pet is not going to get as many clicks on Petfinder as a pet who has a white face who looks like he’s wearing eyeliner. So a photogenic pet is always going to have an edge. So this week we’ve set aside to try to spotlight those guys who may not be so photogenic for whatever reason.”

Banks-Saul also encouraged people to consider adopting, stating, “there is no better feeling than saving a life.”

“Anyone who has ever adopted a pet knows that I mean gosh even the pride you get just from being a great pet parent obviously is a real charge, but when you’ve saved a life and adopted from a shelter, you know it’s a real boost to your ego,” asserted the Heal House Call Veterinarian founder. 

In a July 2019 YouTube video, Dr. Devon Smith, DMV, shared that “it’s recommended that your pet sees its vet every six months for routine wellness care.” She noted that our furry friends need these examinations twice a year because they “age on a much more rapid scale than [humans] do.” 

“Regular check-ups are crucial for early disease detection, which might help improve your pet’s quality of life and lifespan,” asserted Dr. Smith. 

That being said, while speaking to Southern Living in June 2021, Dr. Amy Stone, who is a clinical assistant professor at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, shared that your dog’s vet appointments should be contingent upon the age of the animal. 

"Puppies, like human babies, go to the doctor quite a bit in their first year of life for immunizations and other young animal issues. Once they are fully immunized and probably spayed or neutered, they typically need to come in for a visit yearly," said Dr. Stone. 

She did note, however, that senior dogs should head over to their vet twice a year. 

Now, most pups are not super fond of veterinary clinics. Professional trainer Zak George shared in a 2017 YouTube video that there are some ways to ease your dog’s nerves prior to your next vet appointment. 

“One quick tip that’s almost sure to remove some anxiety is to thoroughly exercise your dog just before going to the vet,” said George. 

The trainer also noted that dog owners should consider “spend[ing] a few minutes in [your vet’s] lobby” on days when your canine companion does not have an appointment. George suggested allowing your furry friend to “smell around” while “offering them a few treats.” 

“Our goal is to make the vet’s office a normal, fun place, so don’t wait until it’s time to go to the vet to go to the vet. Visit the vet office between appointments as often as possible,” stated George. 

How does your dog react when they have to go to the vet? Let us know in the comments below!

image source: Rover.com

However, that simply is not the case. The fact of the matter is that dogs may have to be muzzled for several reasons. For instance, canine behavior specialist Robert Cabral explained in a May 2020 video uploaded on his YouTube channel that dogs may have to be muzzled at a veterinary clinic if they exhibit nervous behaviors. He shared that vets typically use cloth muzzles, which “prevents a dog’s mouth from opening.” He warned, however, that this type of muzzle could be potentially dangerous. 

“When you close the dog’s mouth, you take away the dog’s ability to pant, so it’s really important that you consider that if a dog is panting or is stressed or is hot. If the dog can’t pant the dog could go into shock, the dog could overheat, and many other things,” explained Cabral. 

That being said, some dogs do need to wear a muzzle for behavioral issues and there’s no shame in that. For example, if you know your furry friend is reactive around other dogs and you decide to put a muzzle on them before you go out in public, you are being a responsible dog owner. Cabral recommends that dogs who “have bite issues” should wear basket muzzles. 

Now, this type of muzzle may look like it could be uncomfortable. However, according to the Animal Humane Society “[w]hen used properly, a well-fitting muzzle should never cause your dog any pain or discomfort.” The organization noted that our canine companions “are able to pant, drink water, and even take treats with ease once they’re used to their properly fitting basket muzzle.” 

That being said, dogs don’t usually take an immediate liking to basket muzzles. For this reason, Cabral suggests that an owner give their dog treats while slowly introducing the muzzle. 

“Always teach your dog that putting a muzzle on is a good thing and a really easy way to get your dog to understand that is to take a little piece of kibble, drop it inside, and give it to your dog,” noted the dog trainer. 

During a 2017 YouTube video, Melissa Fenstermaker, Head Trainer at Union Lake Pet Services, warned, “for your dog’s safety you don’t want to leave the muzzle on for extended periods of time.” 

“We also don’t want you to leave it on and them unattended. We want to make sure you are supervising them at all times so they are not going to hurt themselves trying to get that muzzle off,” said Fenstermaker. 

Have you used a muzzle on your dog before? Let us know in the comments below!

Portland, Oregon 

With such gorgeous hiking trails, it should come as no surprise that Portland, Oregon is incredibly dog-friendly. As locals and tourists alike appreciate the city for its trendy cafes and breweries, pup parents will be pleased that numerous establishments permit furry friends. For instance, Breakside Brewing, on NW 22nd Ave, is a great establishment to spend time with your friends of the human and canine variety. Tin Shed Garden Cafe is another pawsome place that has not one, but two options for dogs on the menu. 

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston, Massachusetts is another extremely dog-friendly city. Like Portland, Boston has quite a few dog-friendly breweries like Night Shift Brewing Owl's Nest Allston and the Mighty Squirrel. That being said, if your dog isn’t into the bar scene, you can do a ton of other activities at The Cradle of Liberty. The American Kennel Club recommends heading over to the Boston Public Garden and Castle Island Beach for a fun outdoorsy outing. Pups who want to learn more about American history will be pleased to know that they can walk the Freedom Trail. Similarly, dogs who enjoy spending their hard-earned cash will also have a blast at SoWa Open Market. 

Austin, Texas 

Austin, Texas is a dog owners’ dream. There are so many incredible spots to take Spot, including quite a few hiking trails. For instance, Barton Creek Greenbelt is gorgeous, especially during the spring and summer. As for dining establishments, you and your pup are sure to have a memorable night out on the town at Shangri-La or Doghouse Drinkery. 

New Orleans, Louisiana

The fact that New Orleans is super dog-friendly, cements it as a top destination for pup parents. Feel free to visit famous spots, like the Cafe Amelie, Musical Legends Park, and Croissant D’or Pâtisserie. 

During an October 2019 interview with KCTV5, Mike Deathe, the owner of K.I.S.S. Dog Training, explained that service dogs “spend years being trained to help somebody with a specific skill.” According to the dog trainer, the training usually takes “anywhere from a year and a half to two years.”

In a 2017 YouTube video, famed dog trainer and Animal Planet host, Zak George noted that “service dogs can be any size or any breed.” He explained that “to qualify for a service dog you have to have a condition which significantly limits or makes you completely unable to complete daily life activities.” It is also important to note that when you have a service dog, you are able to bring the pup to most public places. According to George, “the Americans with Disabilities Act states that state and local governments, businesses, and non-profit organizations that serve the public that generally must allow service animals to accompany people with disabilities in all areas of the facility where the public is normally allowed to go.”

Kati Morton, a licensed therapist, also shared in a 2018 video, that service dogs “benefit an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, intellectual, or other mental disability.” She explained there are also psychiatric service dogs, who go through extensive training “to help its owner with a psychiatric disability or a mental illness such as PTSD, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder.”

Morton then clarified that emotional support animals “are not considered service animals under the American Disabilities Act” and “do not have any special training to perform tasks that assist people with disabilities.” However, they can still be beneficial to those suffering from “depression, anxiety, and phobias.” She also noted that “a letter from a medical doctor or therapist is all that’s really needed to classify an animal as an emotional support animal.”

In his video, George also noted that while they can not be in most public places, “emotional support animals are allowed to live in no pet housing and go on airplanes.”

According to Dr. Courtney Campbell, a board-certified veterinary surgeon, if left untreated, heartworms could be fatal to dogs and “have been documented in all 50 states,” which means you need to be diligent as a pup parent. He also noted that heartworm disease “comes from mosquitos.”

In a 2013 video, uploaded on the American Veterinary Medical Association channel, Dr. Shelly Rubin, DMV, explained that these parasitic “worms are transmitted in a microscopic state by an infected mosquito and then travel through your pet’s blood vessels and eventually make their way to the hearts and lungs.” If that’s not bad enough, they also will “reproduce and create new microscopic young worms called microfilaria which are circulating in the blood.” He noted that once an infected mosquito bites your precious pup, “it takes about six to nine months for the worms to grow to full size.” Some dog owners may have difficulty realizing their furry friend is infected. A few symptoms to look out for are coughing, lethargy, and appetite loss. 

Now, the very thought of your dog getting heartworm disease is terrifying. However, Dr. Rubin asserted that it “is almost 100% preventable.” Depending on the pup and the issue at hand, your vet will prescribe a “topical, oral, [or] injectable” preventative. Vets also advise dogs to get blood tests at least once a year to see if they have heartworm. 

“By taking your pet to the veterinarian for regular preventative care and properly administering the treatment prescribed in a timely fashion you can help your pet avoid the devastating heartworm disease,” said Dr. Rubin.

However, it actually is an unfortunate injury that is often seen in breeds like labs, Great Danes, and Pit Bulls. According to the Veterinary Centers of America Inc., the injury happens after a pup hits the tip of their tail “repeatedly against solid objects,” usually because they are just too darn excited. While speaking to The Bark in 2018, Dr. Carrie Uehlein, who co-owns the Veterinary Hospital of Davidson in Davidson, NC, explained that pups who are prone to this syndrome tend to be “bright, energetic, and super excited to see people.” Here at the Gentle Pit, we can attest that this perfectly describes Pit Bulls!

“They will not stop wagging their tails no matter how much it may hurt them,” said the veterinarian. 

Unfortunately, this means they will keep wagging, even if their skin tears, which can cause “bleeding ulcers,” as reported by the VCA. The publication also noted that Happy Tail can also “expose delicate nerves that cause pain,” meaning for your pup’s sake, you will need to take them to the vet. Depending on the severity of the injury, the veterinarian may simply “bandag[e] the injured area” and give your pup some “antibiotics and pain medication.”

However, there are other ways to help heal Happy Tail. During The Bark interview, Dr. Uehlein asserted, “K-laser treatments work the best” for this type of injury. She noted that this involves “a class 4 warm light laser that increases oxygenated blood flow to the region you are treating to quicken the healing time.” 

The Bark noted that without “K-laser treatments," pup parents can expect the “healing time” to be about five weeks. The VCA also reported that if the injury does not “heal, the best solution is surgical shortening of the tail.” To avoid amputation, seek medical treatment for your dog at the first signs of Happy Tail.

Take Your Furry Friend To The Vet Beforehand 

Prior to traveling, you need to make sure that your pooch is in tip-top shape. This is especially true if you are going on an airplane. According to the American Kennel Club, you must bring a health certificate that proves your pooch is healthy and “up-to-date” with their shots if they are flying. 

Get Your Dog Microchipped 

Unfortunately, some dogs panic when they are in unfamiliar places, which may cause them to run away. For this reason, you should think about getting your dog microchipped before your vacation. The American Animal Hospital noted that the process is relatively simple. Essentially, a microchip, which is about “[t]he size of a grain of rice,” is implanted in your dog. 

According to the American Kennel Club, the device holds your pup’s medical information and “your contact information.” A universal scanner can decipher said information. The AKC notes that for the microchip to be effective, you must “register it with a national pet recovery database.”

Pack Accordingly 

As previously mentioned, dogs are unable to pack for themselves. This means you will have to figure out exactly what they’ll need. 

If you are going on a plane, you will need a crate. The AKC recommends that it should be sturdy, leak-proof, and “large enough to allow the dog to stand, turn, and lie down.” 

Regardless if you are flying or driving, you’ll need to make sure that you have your pet’s medication, leash, collar, ID tag, waste bags, food bowls, food, and water. You’ll also want to bring their bedding, treats, and toys. 

Research Dog-Friendly Hotels & Restaurants 

Before you decide where you want to stay, do some research to see if there are suitable dog-friendly hotels and restaurants. You should also plan out some dog-friendly activities like going to a dog beach or taking a hike. Essentially, most hotels have pretty strict pet policies and often don’t allow dogs to stay in the room by themselves. This means, if you want to go out on an adventure, you will have to bring your dog with you. 

The last winner of the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest was Scamp the Tramp, whose name was changed to Scamp the Champ following his 2019 win. While speaking to The Today Show, in June 2019, the very good boy’s owner, Yvonne Morones, said the pint-sized rescue pup had entered the contest four times before winning and was the runner-up in 2018. She also noted that Scamp is the perfect example of not judging a book by its cover. 

“When people first meet him they go 'oh he's kind of scary,’ and then he wins them over with his sparkling personality,” said Morones. 

When Scamp won first place, he was presented with $1500, and another $1500 was donated to the Humane Society of Sonoma County and Compassion Without Borders on his behalf. Morones revealed she and Scamp planned on spending his money by going on a vacation to Florida. 

While some people may find the competition mean-spirited, it actually spotlights some incredible dogs, who are typically rescues and just happen to be a little silly-looking. According to the event’s website, during the event “animal rescue and adoption groups are also on site with information showcasing adoptable pets,” which we think is absolutely amazing!

Are you a fan of the World’s Ugliest Dog Competition? Let us know in the comments below!

image: People

Foxtail Grass 

Those who live on the West Coast have probably run into their fair share of Foxtail Grass. Despite its adorable name, the weed is extremely dangerous for dogs. According to Fetch by WebMD, issues may emerge if your dog inhales the plant’s seeds or if the seeds are embedded into their skin. The seeds can “cause discharge, abscesses, swelling, pain, and death.” To ensure that your dog is not harmed by Foxtail Grass, avoid “overgrown, grassy areas.” If you believe your pup may have gotten near foxtail grass, give their body a thorough look. You should contact a vet if you notice that your dog has been excessively itching their ears, paws, or genitals, or if you notice unusual discharge around their eyes and nose. 

Stinging Nettle 

Just based on the name alone, you can assume that any animal, including humans, should avoid stinging nettles. Wag! reported that dogs “who are exposed to the plant … can be poisoned by thousands of injections of acetylcholine which can seriously affect the peripheral nerves.” Some signs that your pooch has come “into contact with the stinging nettle,” include skin irritation, difficulty breathing, and stomach issues. Dogs who experience these symptoms should be taken to the vet. They will likely prescribe a topical solution to ease any skin irritation. 

Cow Parsnip 

Cow Parsnip is another plant that could be potentially dangerous to your furry friend. According to Wag!, the small white wildflower can cause your canine companion to have dermatitis, hyperpigmentation, and/or severe “ocular damage [that can result in] permanent blindness.” If your dog consumes the plant, they will likely have “intestinal irritation” that is often accompanied by “nausea and vomiting.” Again, you’ll want to take a trip to the veterinarian if you notice any of these symptoms. During the visit, the vet will either give your dog a topical, intestinal, or optical treatment, depending on the diagnosis.   

Oleander

Despite being one of the most beautiful flowers, Oleanders are poisonous to dogs and humans alike. You’ll want to make sure that your pup doesn’t consume the flower, as it could “affect a dog's heart by interrupting the electrolyte balance there,” as reported by Dog Health. If your dog has eaten the plant, they will need to go to the vet as soon as possible.

If you have a dog who gets anxious when there are unfamiliar noises, it may be in your best interest to keep them by your side during the Fourth of July. Consider following these suggestions that may help your furry friend keep calm on Independence Day.

Have Them Watch Firework Videos

A few days prior to the 4th, consider having them watch firework videos on YouTube. Canine Behavior Consultant, Jenn Stanley, recommended this method while speaking to the American Kennel Club in June 2021. 

“The volume should be low enough that your dog can notice it, but does not show signs of stress like panting, pacing, leaving the area or trying to hide. We call this keeping the dog ‘below threshold,’ and it makes it possible for learning to take place. If the dog is overwhelmed, they’re looking to escape the situation and are not going to be nearly as capable of learning that it’s not a threat,” explained Stanley.  

Make A Calming Space 

 While speaking to the American Kennel Club, Dr. Judy Morgan, DVM, explained that because “[d]ogs are den animals — they’re looking for that cave to get away from it all.” So, before the 4th, make a comfy, calming space for your pup in either your bathroom or walk-in closet if you have one. 

Give Them Plenty Of Exercise

Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise before the fireworks show. If the weather permits, you may even want to head over to a local hiking trail to really tire them out. This tactic usually works wonders for my dog, who is terrified of thunderstorms. If she has a really long day, full of activities like going to the dog park or dog beach, she sleeps through the noises that would usually trigger her anxiety. 

Use Distraction Tactics 

If you can hear fireworks from your house, use some distraction tactics, like a puzzle toy, so your dog’s focus will be on something else besides loud, scary noises. During an interview with Scientific American, veterinary behaviorist Ilana Reisner also suggested that "before the fireworks start, cook up an irresistible food such as chicken breast, special meat or salmon cookies, microwave tiny bits of nitrate-free hot dogs, and popcorn.”

"Stock a treat bag. Feed one piece at a time to your dog throughout the fireworks to counter condition and distract. If your dog is willing, make a game of it and ask her to sit, down, 'find it', shake hands and other distracting cues. Freeze a Kong with kibble mixed with baby food. Feed dinner through the toy,” said Reisner. 

Consult Your Veterinarian

Consult your dog’s veterinarian to see if they believe your pup should be on any anxiety medication. 

Unfortunately, rattlesnake venom “can be fatal to dogs,” as reported by the Veterinary Specialists of the Rockies. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent your precious pooch from being bitten. 

1.Don’t Allow Your Dog Off-Leash 

It’s very tempting to let your pup off-leash and explore his surroundings. After all, dogs want nothing more than to sniff every single tree and bush they see. That being said, dogs aren’t the best at being aware of their surroundings and probably won’t realize that a rattlesnake is in their close proximity until it is too late. For this reason, you should always have a tight grip on your furry friend’s leash.

2. Keep Your Cool If You See A Rattlesnake

If you realize that there is a rattlesnake close to you, proceed with caution. You don’t want to act erratically, as it may agitate your dog, which in turn may irritate the snake, increasing its chances of biting. It’s best to take a different path and calmly walk away from the rattlesnake.  

3. See if Rattlesnake Vaccinations Are Right For Your Dog 

There are rattlesnake vaccinations available for dogs who are at least four months old. According to Methow Valley Veterinary Hospital, a “dog should get at least two doses about 30 days apart in the initial vaccination sequence.” Consult your vet to see if getting your dog a rattlesnake vaccination would be the best course of action.  

If your dog does end up getting bitten by a rattlesnake while out on the trail, get in contact with an emergency veterinarian clinic right away. Once you detail exactly what happened, take your dog to said clinic as soon as possible. According to the Veterinary Specialists of the Rockies, your dog may have to stay overnight, and “based on the veterinarian’s assessment of severity, bloodwork results, and suspected type of snake, antivenom may be administered.”

She went on to say fostering would likely be more popular “if more people knew about [its] lifesaving impact.” Kogut also insisted that anyone who enjoys the company of pets would be a suitable foster pup parent. She then encouraged those with families to consider fostering because “children can help and learn how to care for animals.”

While becoming a foster pup parent is an incredible experience, there are a few things to consider before taking on the responsibility. Now fostering is less of a commitment than adopting. However, depending on their needs, a foster animal may be placed in your care for months at a time. You should also have a relatively spacious home so the dog can have their own designated area if needed. In addition, you will need to inform the shelter if you already have pets at home, just in case the foster dog has issues with other animals.

Those who have determined fostering would be the right course of action, contact a representative from a nearby rescue or shelter. If you meet all the requirements, you will likely be matched with a foster dog. Before they arrive, be sure to have all the proper supplies, like bedding, kibble, and of course, some treats which is typically provided by the shelter you are fostering from. 

Have you fostered a dog before? Let us know in the comments below!

Rescue Chicago primarily works with Chicago Animal Care & Control, one of the most underfunded shelters in the country. The nonprofit was established by Tara Majeed, Margaret Fraser, and Christine Nendick in March 0f 2019. The nonprofit helps find animals foster families, gives rescues financial donations, and organizes an incredible team of volunteers who are willing to transport shelter animals, called the Chicago Shelter Animal Transporters. Most recently, Rescue Chicago launched a senior support program in collaboration with My Block, My City, My Hood. They’ve been able to provide pet food for senior community members in order to keep pets in the homes that love them. 

Christine, the founder of the popular lifestyle and fashion blog Rescue in Style, explained how Rescue Chicago came to be in a 2019 post. She stated that she, Tara, and Margaret came together to save a special dog by the name of Thurston from being euthanized. The dog was suffering from a horrible case of pneumonia and was about to be put down. However, Christine felt compelled to give the sweet boy a second chance at life and contacted Margaret Fraser and Tara Majeed. The three women got the adorable pit bull to the vet and a foster pup parent took him in. Christine revealed that saving Thurston made her come to the conclusion that “it takes teamwork to get an animal out of our city shelters.”

“It was through this experience that we saw an opportunity to support the rescue community,” wrote the rescue advocate. “We could connect fosters to donors and rescue organizations to save lives.”

Research suggests that dogs do have dreams, not unlike humans. According to the American Kennel Club, studies have concluded that our furry friends do experience REM sleep, which “is the period responsible for the most memorable and vivid dreams.” 

Now, I personally have wild dreams. For instance, last night, I dreamed that I went to Disneyland with Sebastian Stan, and he was getting increasingly frustrated with me because I was afraid of the giant spiders that were everywhere. Thankfully, even though we share similar sleep cycles, it is unlikely that my dog has nightmares about Marvel actors being annoyed with her at a theme park. Instead, her dreams are probably grounded in reality and have something to do with her day-to-day life, which mainly consists of her barking at my neighbor’s children while we are out on walks. 

Dr. Stanley Coren, PhD., DSc, FRSC explained in a 2010 Psychology Today article that scientists determined our furry friends “dream about common dog activities” by “inactivat[ing] the part of the brain that suppresses acting out of dreams in dogs.” He noted that researchers discovered the animals remained still until “the brain entered that stage of sleep associated with dreaming,” which suggested that “these dogs actually began to execute the actions that they were performing in their dreams.” Dr. Coren went on to say that these specific actions likely mirror the movements the dog typically does during their waking hours. 

What do you think your dog dreams about? Let us know in the comments below!

image source: Smart Nora

She then stated that “the best way” to celebrate National Rescue Dog Day “is to post a picture of [your] rescue dog” on social media. In your post, make sure you list off all your dog’s incredible traits and tell your followers why you couldn’t imagine your life without them. Don’t forget to include the hashtag #nationalrescuedogday!

“We thought by just promoting [rescue dogs], showing pictures, and creating a buzz and excitement about the dogs that have been rescued and sharing stories that that may elevate that opportunity to be adopted,” explained Wiehebrink. 

Also, if you have been thinking about adopting a dog, there’s no better day than National Rescue Dog Day to do so. In honor of the holiday, head over to your local shelter to meet your new BFF. For those who are unable to adopt, you can either become a foster pup parent or volunteer as a dog walker at a rescue. Either way, you are helping shelter dogs get socialized, which can increase their chances of eventually getting adopted. 

How are you planning on celebrating this pawsome holiday? Let us know in the comments below. 

image: @halibobalii

For instance, I initially believed that “no kill” groups did not euthanize under any circumstances. However, an organization can be deemed “no kill” as long as it has a save rate of 90%. This means that 10% of animals can be euthanized at these facilities. It is important to note that the animals put down have either severe health or behavioral issues that drastically decrease their quality of life. 

Another important distinction is that, unlike traditional shelters, “no kill” organizations choose which animals can stay in their facilities. According to The Daytona Beach News-Journal, “no kill” groups “may turn away” an animal if they “are too old, too sick, too mean or ‘not adoptable.’” The publication noted that this could be an issue as the animal may become homeless and reproduce, which contributes to the overpopulation of traditional shelters. 

Now, traditional shelters usually welcome all animals brought to their facilities. However, due to limited funding, resources, and space, animals are euthanized at a higher rate. 

While many dog-lovers have strong opinions about “no kill” versus traditional shelters, it is ultimately your decision where you choose to adopt. Also, you can help reduce animal homelessness and euthanasia rates by getting your dog spayed or neutered. 

If you already have one of these plants in your garden, please keep a watchful eye out for your dog. There are symptoms that indicate your precious pup may have swallowed something harmful. According to Dr. Murl Bailey, a professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, “when pets ingest toxic plants, the first symptom is vomiting. Depending upon which plant is ingested, the animal may develop loose bowels, become depressed, or show excitement.” If you notice these signs, it’s in your pet’s best interest to have them seen by a vet straight away. 

Thankfully, there are quite a few gorgeous garden plants that are safe, even if your dog sneaks in a bite or two. For example, sunflowers will brighten up any yard. Crepe Myrtles are also super gorgeous during the summer season. If you want a water-wise pet-friendly plant, look no further than a houseleek succulent. You can also never go wrong with a classic rose bush. Just be careful that your dog doesn’t accidentally swallow or get pricked by a thorn!

What is your favorite dog-friendly plant? Let us know in the comments below!

Here at towerfansreview, we encourage potential pup parents to adopt, not shop. If you are wanting to add a furry friend to your family, there’s no better day to visit your local shelter than National Adopt A Shelter Animal Day. 

There are so many benefits to adopting rescue dogs. For one, you could very well be saving a life, especially if you are adopting from a kill shelter. According to the American Kennel Club, “each year” about 3.3 million precious pups are placed in U.S. shelters. Unfortunately, over 600,000 of those dogs are put down. Dogs who are considered pit bulls -- American pit bull terriers, American Staffordshire terriers, Staffordshire bull terriers, and American bulldogs -- and pit mixes are among the most euthanized animals in shelters. While it is difficult to determine the exact number, it is believed that pits make up about 40% of euthanized shelter dogs. It seems that this is primarily due to the negative stereotypes surrounding the breed. In 2016, the Washington Post reported research from Arizona State University found that “the negative pit bull label influenced dogs’ chances at adoption.”

“We were surprised how very similar-looking dogs sometimes get labeled ‘pit bull’ and other times as something completely different. These dogs may look and act the same, but the pit bull label damns them to a much longer wait to adoption,” explained Lisa Gunter, lead author of the study. 

Any pit parent can tell you that these dogs are incredible. They are sweet, smart, and have amazing smiles. As cheesy as it sounds, when you rescue a pit bull, they are rescuing you. 

If you are able, please consider celebrating National Adopt A Pet Shelter Day by adopting or fostering a pit bull from your local shelter.