Shelter Spotlight: Dharma Rescue

by Kate Barrington

Published: June 13th, 2017

What a brilliant idea! Dharma Rescue saves dogs from overcrowded shelters and trains them as therapy animals.

Each year, millions of adoptable pets are euthanized because the shelter system is overcrowded. Puppies and kittens are the first to find new homes but the pets that are a little bit older, have medical problems, or that are struggling with the shelter environment often don’t show well and are left homeless. Dharma Rescue is dedicated to saving those forgotten pets from the shelter system and giving them a new life as a therapy animal.

History of the Dharma Rescue

The Dharma Rescue was founded by Susan Fulcher, a dog groomer with more than forty years of experience. For years, Fulcher nursed her love for dogs by doing volunteer work and fostering for a local shelter. Eventually it became more than just a hobby – it became a full-time job and a passion of hers. At the suggestion of one of her customers, Fulcher eventually decided to start her own shelter – the Dharma Rescue.

Related: Pets of the Homeless

This organization is dedicated to rescuing disabled dogs from high-kill and high-risk shelters and training them to be therapy dogs, effectively giving them a new lease on life. Susan Fulcher and the members of her team believe that every animal deserves the opportunity to live life to the fullest and that is exactly what they aim to provide for disabled dogs – a full life well lived.

What Services Does this Shelter Provide?

The Dharma Rescue is dedicated to rescuing disabled dogs and to giving them a new lease on life as ‘DAWGS – Disabled Animals Who Generously Serve’. This organization takes dogs from death row and turns them into fully trained service animals.

Related: Luvable Dog Rescue

Dharma Rescue is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that provides disabled dogs with a place to stay, medical care, and rehabilitation – they also spay and neuter all of their dogs. In addition to rescuing dogs from high-kill shelters, they also care for dogs that have been abused or are critically ill. They also care for senior dogs and cats.

When Dharma Rescue takes in a dog, they not only rehabilitate him but train him to be a therapy dog – volunteer handlers from the organization take the dogs to local schools and hospitals to spread love and cheer.

How Can You Offer Your Support?

There are several ways you can support Dharma Rescue. The organization is always in need of donations to help them provide the food, shelter, and medical care their DAWGS need. The organization is always on the lookout for volunteer handlers for their therapy dogs, for sponsors, and for people to adopt their rehabilitated pets.

If you’d like to adopt a dog from Dharma Rescue you can find a list of adoptable pets on their website as well as information about their adoption fees and the application process. You can submit donations by mail or through Paypal by clicking on the “Donate” button on the website.

The next time you think about adopting a pet, don’t go straight for the puppies or the pure breeds – think about the needs of the less fortunate pets, the ones who are old, sick, or injured. These dogs deserve a second chance just as much as any other dog and the Dharma Rescue makes it their goal to give those dogs that second chance – you can join them by offering your support.

Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

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Shelter Spotlight: Mission K9 Rescue

This organization is on a mission – to rehome retired military working dogs. Mission K9 Rescue is on the front lines when it comes to making sure these veterans are well taken care of. While the term “rescue mission” is often affiliated with disaster situations where survivors are in peril or hostages at risk, this particular mission has a decidedly brighter purpose and consistently upbeat outcome. The Mission K9 Rescue out of Houston, Texas is a non-profit that takes in retired or retiring Military Working Dogs (MWD) and Contract Working Dogs (CWD) and with a confident mission-is-possible attitude, dedicates it’s time and resources to rescuing, reuniting, re-homing, rehabilitating and repairing the many pooches that put their lives on the line as working dogs in war zones. Related: Florida Little Dog Rescue A pretty daunting task for any group, especially when one realizes they offer this support to dogs worldwide. So who are these furry heroes in need of re-homing? Typically they consist of German shepherd dogs, Labrador Retrievers, Springer Spaniels, Pointers, Weimareiners and even those spunky Jack Russells who are used for narcotics detection on submarines. Hey, a tight space calls for economy of scale! As for their role overseas, both the MWDs and CWDs are trained experts in the detection of explosives, and narcotics and many have seen active duty in war zones. The MWDs are owned by the military/government while CWDs are on contract – same job, different title. Related: Beagle Freedom Project Because many have come from a rather traumatic background and may display symptoms of PTSD, Mission K9 Rescue is quick to point out that these dogs are not suitable as service dogs for the handicapped and are equally diligent when it comes to checking out the who’s who and what’s what of prospective adoptive families. Even going so far as to check with your veterinarian to determine how well you care for any existing pets and if your home set-up is appropriate to the breed. Gotta say that if there was a “like” box to check here, I’d be doing it! Whether the dogs are brought back from overseas or rescued from less than ideal living conditions here in North America, the organization is committed to ensuring these pooches receive a deserving retirement for a job well done. As a result, there is no guarantee that your stellar history will net you a retired working dog. Mission K9 Rescue is clear that they do not have kennels of dogs looking for homes but individual dogs that are rehabilitated as they become aware of, rescue and rehabilitate. Additionally, the organization is committed to reuniting working dogs with their handlers if the home set-up meets their requirements. Under the category of “nice-to-know”, while successful adoptive pet parents need to cover the cost of transporting Rover to their home, Mission K9 Rescue covers the cost to transport any dog to his handler if the cost involves prohibits the adoption. Sweet! But as pet parents, we’ve learned that absolutely everything associated with our fur-kids has a price tag attached to it and these dogs are no different. When you’re talking older dog with a heavily active past you just know there will be costs to rehabilitate and reintegrate him into a family environment as well as to repair weary bones and muscles. That’s where you can help. Mission K9 Rescue is comprised of volunteers and funding that comes solely from public sector donations. If you aren’t in a position to adopt but would like to help offset medical bills or bring a little soldier home, consider a one-time donation, monthly or annual contribution.

Shelter Spotlight: American Dog Rescue Foundation

Are you up for the challenge? American Dog Rescue is, and they’re determined to reduce the number of homeless dogs on the streets. Arthur Benjamin, philanthropist and founder of the volunteer-based American Dog Rescue Foundation (ADRF), is throwing out a challenge to animal rescue organizations throughout the world: let’s reduce the number of homeless dogs roaming the streets. His mission is to reduce the estimated 200 million pooches (predicted to reach one billion if nothing is done) through aggressive yet humane spay and neuter tactics. According to Benjamin, “While the numbers are staggering, we need to remember that these dogs are suffering and need our compassion. No need to end the lives of these dogs, but instead curb the vicious cycle these poor animals are going through. We have the solution and call on animal rescues and corporations across the globe to join our coalition.” Related: Pet Peace of Mind No slouch in the animal welfare game, ADRF is known for their proactive approach to animals in need including funding surgeries too costly for other shelters, rescuing abandoned pets and livestock from disaster ravaged areas, connecting veterans suffering from PTSD with supports dogs, bringing an end to dog fighting as well as saving abandoned circus and theme park animals. With a long-standing overarching commitment to closing down puppy mills and growing the number of animal shelters, the organization’s steely determination to effect change means that 100% of funds raised are directed to animal welfare projects. Related: Humane Animal Rescue Team So how does one begin the daunting challenge of reducing the population of some 200 million street dogs within a target timeline of just seven years? ADRF has formed a global coalition of established, like-minded organizations such as: Bali (Dog) Adoption Rehabilitation Centre (BARC), which has drastically reduced the dog population and disease incidence in BaliOperation SNIP (Spay Neuter Incentive Program), the initiative of K9Aid, one of the most respected charities in AustraliaCathy Kangas Foundation for Animals Another partner, Cindy Amey, Founder of K9Aid confirms “We are thrilled to partner with American Dog Rescue and know that with more support this coalition will have a major impact on the stray dog population and prevent an incredible amount of suffering”. To date, ADRF has raised over $50,000 towards their $250,000 target, which they say will cover the costs to complete Phase 1 of the project in Bali and Thailand. Phase 2 will see them moving into Vietnam and Eastern Europe as soon as funds become available. While February 23rd is officially World Spay & Neuter Day, anytime is a good time to consider a donation to make the life of a pooch half way across the globe just a little bit better. Head on over to American Dog Rescue’s website to accept the challenge.

Shelter Spotlight: Hull’s Haven Border Collie Rescue

Hull’s Haven is a haven for Border Collies and any dog in need This month, we travel to Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada to spotlight Hull’s Haven Border Collie Rescue (HHBCR). This volunteer operated, non-profit rescue group takes in not just Border Collies and Border Collie mixes, but any dog in need. These dogs have been surrendered, neglected or placed in shelters, and Hull’s Haven works tirelessly to find them permanent, loving homes. Hull’s Haven Border Collie Rescue places dogs with loving foster families, who care for the dogs until they find their forever homes. That means they don’t operate within a stand-alone shelter system – without these foster homes, Hull’s Haven wouldn’t be able to save these dogs. Inspired by an amazing woman named Shahna Rice, HHBCR was started December 2006. The foundation has a versatile approach when it comes to rescue – they work with puppy mill rescues, US and interprovincial rescues where there are high-kill shelters. Their mantra of “Mercy Knows No Borders” is one they firmly believe in. Another great thing about Hull’s Haven Border Collie Rescue (yes, there is more great things about this organization) is their “Yes, I Can” program. A part of the foundation’s public education mandate, this program helps to promote healthy self-esteem in children and build positive focus for a balanced life. The stars of this program are Riddle and Dee Dee Waboose. Riddle is a special Border Collie who was born with no eyes and has epilepsy, but he doesn’t let this get in his way. With his amazing attitude, keen awareness of his surroundings, and uncanny ability to get what he wants, Riddle teaches kids that any kind of obstacle can be overcome. Dee Dee Waboose is deaf, but she doesn’t let that slow her down. She’s been taught to do so many cool things. Together, dogs teach kids that if they want something badly enough, they can achieve their goals by willing to work hard enough. Hull’s Haven Border Collie Rescue is always looking for volunteers, loving foster families and donations, either monetary or supplies. Monetary donations go toward spaying/neutering, deworming, vaccinating and any other necessary vetting, as well as the transport of dogs, or saving them from a hoarding situation. To learn more about this awesome organization, visit Hull’s Haven Border Collie Rescue’s website.

Shelter Spotlight: Adopt-A-Bull Rescue, Inc.

Adorabully cute and noble, Adopt-A-Bull Rescue helps Bulldogs in need We’re so pleased to present a new feature here on PetGuide.com – our Shelter Spotlight. Our purpose is to highlight some of the shelters that don’t make it into the spotlight and the public’s attention, even though they fight the good fight each and every day. This month’s Shelter Spotlight shines on Adopt-A-Bull Rescue, Inc. Based out of South Florida, Adopt-A-Bull Rescue is a 501c3 not-for-profit English Bulldog Rescue organization in South Florida. Made up of Bulldog lovers and volunteers, these passionate people step in when Bullies need an “intervention.” The dogs that come into their re-homing and rescue program are from animal shelters where they would otherwise be facing euthanasia. Other Bulldogs are strays, while others are surrenders. They all share a common need – the need for a loving forever home that can accommodate the special needs of a Bulldog. Just one of the struggles Adopt-A-Bull Rescue is faced with is raising the funds to properly care for and rehabilitate the dogs in their custody. Some of these dogs arrive in bad shape and need medical care and training therapy before they can be placed with an adoptive home. As well, these Bullies don’t just go to anyone. This organization is committed to giving their rescue Bulldogs with the highest quality of life, so families are chosen based on if the household in question can allow the dog to thrive. If you’d like to learn more about Adopt-A-Bull Rescue, Inc. or would like to help this organization, please visit the official website. You can also see a list of Bulldogs that are available for adoption or fill out an application to be a foster parent. If you can’t adopt, you can always donate or buy one of their fundraising items, like Bulldog-Opoly, Adopt-A-Bull mousepads and T-shirts, and Bulldog Tattoo sunglasses. Way to go Adopt-A-Bull! Keep up the good work!

Shelter Spotlight: Luvable Dog Rescue

A shelter that lets dogs commune with nature, Luvable Dog Rescue houses its residents in quaint little cottages! When you picture a dog shelter you probably picture rows upon rows of chain-link cages with hard concrete floors. But not every dog shelter looks this way. In fact, there is a shelter that houses their dogs in beautiful little cottages to ensure that they have a less stressful environment in which to live until they go to their new forever homes. What Makes Luvable Dog Rescue Different? While most dog shelters keep their dogs in stark metal cages in an effort to make their funding stretch as far as they can, one dog rescue is doing something different. Luvable Dog Rescue houses their dogs in miniature cottages that are outfitted like a real home to make sure that every dog is able to live comfortably while waiting for adoption. Related: National Service Dogs Not only are these cottages more comfortable for the dogs who live in them, but a low-stress, home-like environment allows the staff workers at Luvable Dog Rescue to observe each dog’s behavior and temperament so that they can find the perfect adoptive family for each individual dog.

Signs a Dog Is in Pain

Don’t you wish your dog could talk to tell you how he feels? After all, it can be tough to figure out if your pet is experiencing discomfort. But if you learn more about your canine companion’s body language, you’ll be able to pick up on the signs your dog is in pain. Below are some of the things to watch out for.

Pretty Plants that Will Stop Cats from Pooping in Your Garden

Whether you own a cat or neighboring felines like to frequent your backyard, chances are you have come across half-buried cat poop in your flower beds. Cat lover or not, you probably weren’t thrilled to discover these unsightly deposits in your garden.Although cat poop won’t harm your garden, it also won’t add much to the overall appeal of it either, especially if the cats decide to dig their own toilets in the middle of your flower patch. In addition to preserving the aesthetics of your garden, there are several other reasons you may want to stop cats from pooping in your backyard. Keeping cats away will ensure the garden stays clean and safe for young children to play in. Plus, it will help protect wild birds that visit your garden, especially if you have a bird feeder or two.Besides being unsightly, cat poop in the garden can carry a parasite, called Toxoplasma gondii, which is particularly dangerous to pregnant women and unborn babies. For this reason, it’s super important that you wear gloves when you clean cat poop from your garden. As an added precaution against nasty infections, always use gloves when gardening.Are you sick and tired of cats using your garden as their personal toilet? There are several things you can do to preserve your outdoor oasis that don’t include the use of cruel booby-traps or startling devices.All you have to do is buy the right plant - one that cats hate but will look great in your garden. Although technically a weed, the curry plant is one of the best plants to deter cats from pooping in your garden. Scientifically known as Helichrysum italicum, the curry plant is a small, bushy evergreen shrub with linear-shaped silver-gray leaves. The leaves have a strong odor, reminiscent of curry, that acts as a potent cat deterrent. When a cat brushes against a curry plant, its leaves release a strong odor that attacks a cat’s sense of smell. Plus, the curry plant also has a coarse texture that cats hate. Many gardeners agree that curry plants act as excellent cat deterrents saying that cats stopped pooping in their gardens after they planted curry plants. Since the curry plant is essentially a weed, plant it sparingly so it won’t spread and take up too much space. If, for whatever reason, you don’t want to plant curry plants in your garden, plant lavender instead. A popular ornamental plant, lavender has pretty purple flowers and a delicate and sweet smell with herbal undertones. It’s that delicate smell that will help keep cats away from your garden!Cats have more than 200 million odor sensors in their noses and anything that emits a strong smell, like lavender, will be off-putting. Luckily, lavender is easy to grow and you can plant it in any part of your garden or containers. This gives you the freedom to plant lavender exactly where the cats like to poop to deter them. Many cats also dislike the smell of rosemary, rue, pennyroyal, citronella, oregano, geraniums, lemon thyme, and coffee. Any of these plants can act as a natural barrier and discourage cats from entering your garden and using it as a toilet. Although there are other ways to deter cats from pooping in your backyard, planting plants is an entirely natural and non-toxic option that isn’t harmful to the cats or you. It’s also cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

A Small Cat Family Was Found Living in the Ceiling of a Restaurant

Cats choose their homes in the unlikeliest of places! And a recent event from Massachusetts, when a momma cat and her four newborn kittens were discovered living in the ceiling of a New Bedford restaurant, definitely confirms this.The  Animal Rescue League of Boston said that they received a call from the employees of a local New Bedford restaurant. It was no ordinary call, however, as the employees said that they were “hearing kittens meowing from the ceiling”. The momma cat, however, was no stranger at the premises. The staff noticed her around the place before but did not suspect that she was pregnant – or that she was living in the ceiling. But hearing the distinct sound of kittens meowing, the employees were quick to understand what happened. The animal rescue team quickly responded to the call, and their field service agents soon spotted the tiny kittens through a small slit between the restaurant wall and a hole in the ceiling. With a little bit of patience and work, the rescue team managed to retrieve all four kittens from the ceiling space, and safely transport them to the rescue shelter. Rescuing the momma cat, however, was not as easy. Cunning and careful, the cat evaded all the efforts of the team, including artificial kitten sounds, and tasty cat food. Ultimately, the team employed a humane cat trap that they placed within the ceiling. The next day, they reported that the momma cat entered the trap at around 11 p.m. at night, which allowed them to reunite her with her children at the Animal Rescue League's Boston Animal Care and Adoption Center. There, they were all treated and given veterinary care."Community cats are incredibly resilient, and have a knack to find shelter for themselves and their offspring," the animal rescue league said in a subsequent statement for  NBC Boston. "However, kittens born this time of year are incredibly vulnerable to the elements and other potential dangers and ARL urges the public that if a cat with offspring are discovered, to contact ARL Field Services for assistance." In the meantime, the happy momma cat and her babies are resting and growing, until the time comes when they can be put up for adoption and find forever homes and each their own happy ending to this unusual story.

Scientists Found a New Type of Training that Makes Dogs Better Behaved

Training a dog can seem intimidating, and doesn’t always yield the expected results. Luckily for all dog owners out there, a new study has found another way to train your four-legged companion. Scientists at Aberystwyth University, located in Wales, United Kingdom, have discovered that scent training could improve pet dogs' behavior. The study shows that pet dogs trained to detect scents have a better mental ability and capacity to carry out certain tasks.Previous research only compared highly trained working dogs, like assistance dogs or search and rescue dogs, with untrained pet dogs. Now, for the first time, the researchers have tested the effects of scent training on two groups of untrained dogs. A research team from Aberystwyth University led the study in collaboration with Emma Stoker, owner of Puppy Plus, a dog training company based in Newton, Wales.The study involved 40 dogs of varying degrees of training, whose owners were asked to fill out a questionnaire with basic information about their pet. Researchers gave the dogs two tasks, both requiring impulse control. In the first test, called the “detour task”, the dogs needed to navigate a transparent barrier to get food. The second “A not B task”, tested the dogs’ ability to switch their choice from one pot to another, depending on where food was placed. Researchers separated the dogs into two groups to see whether their ability to detect scents would improve their cognitive ability. The dogs in the first group were given the “detour task” and had to navigate around a transparent barrier to get a treat. In the second group, the researchers said “Look” to the dog to get its attention and then showed it a treat before hiding it under a pot. Dogs in the second group underwent scent training, separated into three phases - familiarization, training, and test phase. In the first phase, only one pot was used. In the training phase, two pots were used, and in the final, test phase, three pots were used.Pate scent was rubbed on all pots to make it harder for the dogs to sniff out where the treat was hidden. If the dog didn’t respond within 20 seconds of being released to find the treat, or if it picked the wrong pot, the dog was shown the treat but wasn’t rewarded. Researchers discovered that dogs who received scent training performed the tasks more efficiently than those who weren’t trained. The study also showed that scent training improved dogs’ inhibitory control and helped them focus on completing a specific task. What’s important for dog owners to know is that poor impulse control is believed to be the main cause of a lot of unwanted behaviors in dogs, such as house soiling and destructive behavior. This new study suggests that scent training could help owners improve their dogs’ behavior. Dr. Sarah Dalesman, the co-author of the study, said: “This research shows that dogs that train primarily in scent work have stronger inhibitory control, suggesting that this training can have a positive effect on their behavior.”“Scent training is offered by a lot of dog trainers, and easy to practice at home. It might offer a great way for owners to improve their pets’ behavior, and we’re aiming to test this theory in future studies.”If scent training isn’t compatible with the way your pup learns, you can try agility or puzzle training. Puzzle training provides mental and physical stimulation and can come in handy when a dog needs to stay home alone or confined. Agility training is another option. Agility is a sport in which you direct your dog through a pre-set obstacle course allowing them to gain problem-solving skills. Try different training activities with your dog to find out what you and your pooch enjoy doing together the most.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Should I Bathe My Dog During Winter?

Should your pet forego bubbly baths when the temperatures drop or should you bathe your pooch regularly all year long? There’s no universal answer to this question as situations can be wildly different from one pet or the other – how harsh is the climate you live in, would you bathe your pooch in a well-heated bathroom or not, how thick is their coat, and so on. All of these factors will influence the answer you’re given! To find out what’s the verdict for your own pooch when it comes to winter bathing, read on.Should I Bathe My Dog During Winter?The fact that it’s cold outside doesn’t have to mean your four-legged bestie has to smell funky for weeks on end – at least not in most cases. You can bathe your dog in the winter as long as you follow some ground rules that are meant to ensure your dog's well-being. Here’s what you need to know:#1 Don’t Do It Too OftenDogs don't need bathing as frequently as we do (duh), so if your dog isn't visibly dirty or smelly, you should be able to extend the time between baths to a couple of weeks. Overbathing can strip essential oils from your dog's skin, which can lead to dryness and irritation, so too much bathing isn’t good either. You can probably get through the winter with just one or two baths.#2 Keep The Water ToastyEnsure that the water you use for the bath is warm, not hot. Hot water can dry out your dog’s skin, so don’t be tempted to overly increase the water temperature just because the weather is cold outside. Of course, you should also make sure the bathing area is warm, and have towels ready to dry your dog quickly.#3 Fast Drying Is Key 

The Season of Giving Begins With A Leap

We're excited to announce a special initiative in celebration of the season of thankfulness and November's Senior Pet Adoption Month. Starting today, Leap Years is offering a free bottle of its daily chewable supplement to anyone who adopts a senior dog (over 5 years old) from a shelter or rescue. All you need is proof of adoption, and while supplies last, your senior pup can start benefiting from Leap Years' formula that has already changed the lives of dogs across the country.

Can You Prevent Joint Pain in Dogs?

As dogs near their golden years, different health issues tend to pop up – sometimes completely out of the blue, and sometimes a little less unexpectedly. One of the more common health problems dogs experience as they age that can be predicted fairly easily and as such prevented on time are joint issues. Providing proper support for your dog while they are still young and agile can dramatically improve their quality of life later on, so it pays to start thinking ahead when it comes to joint health, especially if your pet is in a high-risk group for developing this type of problem (large breed dogs, working breeds, highly active dogs, etc). Here’s what you need to know to make sure your pet doesn’t suffer from joint pain in their senior years.5 Crucial Steps to Prevent Joint Pain in DogsWhile some factors contributing to joint pain are beyond our control, there are different proactive steps we can take to support our pet's joint health:#1 Maintain a Healthy WeightJust as in humans, obesity in dogs exacerbates joint strain and can accelerate the onset of joint problems. A balanced diet will go a long way in helping your pet maintain a healthy weight, so strive to ensure they are getting only quality food that is based mostly on protein and doesn’t contain unhealthy fats and too many fillers such as soy or corn.#2 Provide Regular ExerciseModerate, low-impact exercise helps keep joints limber and muscles strong. However, be mindful of your dog's limitations, as pushing them too far can end up being counterproductive. Activities like swimming and walks are excellent choices, just make sure to tailor the pace to your pet’s capabilities.#3 Quality Supplementation Providing a diet rich in essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, supports joint health. However, even when feeding a good quality kibble, it’s not always feasible to rely on your pet’s diet alone to be enough to provide all of these joint-nurturing ingredients in the right ratio. This is where dog joint supplements come in to enrich your pet’s diet with specific nutrients. 

Drug That Could Extend Lifespan of Senior Dogs Enters Clinical Trial

A new and revolutionary drug that could possibly extend the lifespan of healthy, senior dogs, is now entering a major clinical trial. It also has a first patient - an 11-year-old Whippet named Boo. Going by the codename LOY-002, this drug is designed to provide a few more years to senior dogs of most sizes. It is the product of a startup biotech company called  Loyal and is the fruit of their hard work and arduous research. Celine Halioua, the founder and CEO of Loyal, said that the company is working hard to develop several products aimed at the longevity of dogs. One of their initial projects, the LOY-001, was a drug aimed to extend the lifespan of giant and large dog breeds. In November of 2023, this project received the support of the FDA, paving the way for the company's further successes. The underlying mechanisms of aging were the first focus of the company as it developed LOY-001. The drug works by reducing IGF-1, an insulin-like growth factor that is a key biomarker hormone that drives cell growth. It is believed that this reduced the lifespan of extra-large dogs. Similarly, the LOY-002 project aims to extend the lifespan of normal-sized dogs, by improving their metabolic health and thus delaying the onset and the impact of diseases that come with old age. “LOY-002 is a slightly different mechanism [than LOY-001] for senior lifespan extension. It’s a little bit more of a reversal mechanism. It’s not going to make a 10-year-old dog a puppy, but we’ve seen a rescuing in age-related functional decline in dogs that have been treated with this drug,” said Halioua in an interview with  dvm360.The newest study for LOY-002 is expected to last 4 years, and include one thousand enrolled dogs. “It will be one of the largest veterinary clinical studies that, as far as we know, has ever been run,” added Halioua.The first ever receiver of the drug, Boo, was enrolled into the program in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, at the Animal Hospital of Dauphin County. There, an associate veterinary and STAY study investigator, Coby Rudakewiz, became a part of the program for the first time, witnessing its incredible potential. “I’m genuinely excited to be able to share what we’ve seen as a life-changing product to dogs of all sizes,” he said.“This is what it’s all about - keeping dogs feeling their best to enjoy a long life with their owners who love them.”“The launch of this study brings us one step closer to helping senior dogs have more, healthier years with their families…The scale and complexity of STAY reflect Loyal’s commitment to creating demonstrably effective and safe products,” Halioua added. “This is a massive undertaking that wouldn’t be possible without the partnership of the many veterinarians and technicians operating the study in their clinics, and the participating dogs and owners helping advance therapies for all dogs.”For the time being, the company is working hard to receive conditional approval for its revolutionary drug. This would allow them to begin offering it through veterinarians as soon as 2025. This could mean a world of difference for many senior doggos and their families. Seeing your senior doggo enjoy a few extra years without the issues common to old age is nothing short of true happiness, and would mean that the company’s hard efforts were not in vain. Ultimately, this innovative drug gives us hope for the future and makes us wonder what other ground-breaking drugs could we see in the years ahead.

Latest Studies Find That Aging in Dogs Can Mirror Aging in Humans

In the United States alone, pet owners spend around $1,500 a year on  veterinary care. To be precise, people tend to spend more on dogs than on any other pets – up to 41% of Americans spend $2,000 per year caring about their cherished canine friends. Of course, this is all in the hopes that their pet reaches their senior age with minimal issues and that they get to spend as many years enjoying their company. While providing veterinary care is an important factor that contributes to a pet’s longevity, it’s not always easy to determine when a certain procedure or treatment will help prolong your pet’s life and not their suffering. By comparing the concept they labeled “frailty” in humans and in dogs, a team of researchers hopes that they can help owners make better decisions about their pet’s care.Scientists behind the “ Dog Aging Project” are studying how they could improve your dog’s quality of life for many years to come. The team from the University of Washington is conducting extensive research, based on dogs of all ages, in their attempts to determine how their quality of life is impacted as they age. Dr. Anya Gambino, one of the chief veterinarians working on the project, says: “There's a quantity of life. It's amazing to have a long life, but you always want to have quality of life." The team’s UW Biologist and the Co-Director of the Project, Daniel Promislow, quickly drew a parallel with humans. "Dogs get the same kinds of diseases that humans get. They also show the same kinds of frailty that we see in humans," he said.The so-called “frailty” of dogs, which is the object of the study, is already studied in humans. Dr. Promislow firmly believes that through this study, researchers can gain a much better understanding of life expectancies in dogs and potential disease risks as well. "We hope we'll be able to figure out the relationship between frailty and the disease," Promislow says. But what exactly is this “frailty”? Researchers describe it as "a complex syndrome associated with aging. Because it considers physical, mental and emotional changes associated with aging, it is a better indicator of the body’s condition and overall health than age alone.""If we can do that, we can help vets treat dogs earlier before those diseases are apparent and can also help dogs enjoy their later years to the best degree possible," said Promislow.The study is on a very grand scale and already enrolls over 46,000 dogs across the United States. What is best, researchers believe that humans can also benefit from this extensive study. "The other thing about aging in dogs is that aging in dogs looks a lot like aging in people," said Promislow. "What we learn about aging in dogs is going to help us learn about aging in people, as well."Hopefully, this would mean that many more dogs would get a chance to enjoy their golden years, right by their owner's side. "They provide us with so much unconditional love, joy, and humor," said Dr. Gambino. "We can do something for them that gives them the best chance for living a very happy life with us."

Do Dogs Cry Tears?

Perhaps you spotted tears streaming from your pet’s eyes and wondered: do dogs cry tears as an emotional response? Or is there a different explanation for this phenomenon? Well, the answer is pretty straightforward – dogs don’t produce tears because of their emotions like we humans do. They produce tears primarily to lubricate their eyes, and remove dust and other irritants. But, this does not mean that they don’t express emotions in other ways – here’s what you need to know about your teary-eyed furball.Do Dogs Cry Real Tears?If you spot tears running from your dog’s eyes, you are not deceived – they are real. However, they are not tears of sadness or emotion, as dogs simply don’t express feelings the same way as we do. The role of those tears is more of a bodily function. They are there to lubricate the eye, making sure it functions as it should. After all, dogs can just rub their eyes or place a few drops inside when needed. So, their body does the job for them, and hence the tears. Of course, an excessive amount of tears is not natural. And neither are dry and tearless eyes. So, in either one of these cases, you should schedule a visit with your vet. Dry eyes in dogs are also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) or "dry eye syndrome," and can lead to discomfort, irritation, and potential complications if left untreated. In many cases of dry eyes, veterinarians prescribe artificial tears or  lubricating eye drops to help moisturize the eyes and relieve discomfort. These drops can help supplement the natural tear production and provide relief from dryness. 

Meet the Lancashire Heeler, the AKC's Newest Dog Breed

Say hello to the Lancashire heeler - the American Kennel Club’s 201st recognized dog breed and the newest member of the Herding group. Although small in stature, Lancashire heelers are active and sturdy dogs ready to compete with 200 other dog breeds at thousands of U.S dog shows.“A small, powerful herding dog that thrives on human interaction, this breed would make a great companion for active families that can provide a great deal of love and attention," said Gina DiNardo, American Kennel Club’s Executive Secretary.These small dogs have long bodies and short coats, often black and tan or liver and tan. The Lancashire heeler is a solidly built dog that is around one foot (30 centimeters) tall at the shoulders and weighs up to 17 pounds (7.7 kilograms). Traditionally, Lancashire heelers worked on farms as ratters and herders. Today, these feisty dogs participate in various canine sports and pursuits.“They are gritty little dogs, and they are very intelligent little dogs,” said Patricia Blankenship, who has bred Lancashire heelers for over a decade. “It’s an enjoyable little breed to be around,” she added. The official breed standard calls for Lancashire heelers to be courageous, happy, and affectionate to owner. The owners of these pooches say that happy heelers sometimes pull their lips back and smile. These small but powerful dogs won’t be content to lounge around all the time. They are highly energetic and just as skilled in performance sports as they are in conformation. Lancashire heelers can be found competing in agility, herding, obedience, rally, barn hunt, tracking, disk dog, dock diving, and therapy trials. “There are even a couple that have competed in Earth dog and weight-pull events,” said Sheryl Bradbury, President of the United States Lancashire Heeler Club (USLHC), according to AKC. “It’s a breed that will work hard all day and is happy to curl up at your side and watch the TV news at night.”“The breed is different but in a good way,” said Jeff Kestner, Club Chair of Judges’ Education Committee. “It’s not a run-of-the-mill dog. Its eyes and expression are like magnets. Being a herding breed it's extremely intelligent - it definitely needs a job to do.” According to Bradbury, the biggest misconception about the Lancashire heeler is that it’s adorable and sweet and the perfect size to sit on your lap. “I always caution the buyers to not let a puppy’s cuteness fool you. The minute it is off your lap it may be chewing your shoes or nipping at your heels. Conversely, it will be your loyal best friend.”This cute breed often develops a strong bond with one household member. They will like to interact with the entire family but will pick a favorite person. “It is great with children as long as the children understand how to respect the dog,” added Bradbury. The breed’s origin is packed with mystery but they were first bred in the United Kingdom. The Lancashire heeler is regarded as a “vulnerable native breed” and faces extinction in its homeland. The United Kingdom’s Kennel Club has added an average of just 121 Lancashire heelers to its registry in recent years.Being recognized as a dog breed doesn’t mean that the breed in question is newly created. To officially recognize the Lancashire heeler, the American Kennel Club required proof of a minimum of 20 litters bred with a three-generation pedigree. This guarantees that the breed is established and sustainable. According to Bradbury, there are around 400 Lancashire heelers nationwide but there’s no doubt we’ll see more of these dogs in the future. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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Common Garden Plants That Can Send Your Dog into Cardiac Arrest

Spring is finally upon us! For dog owners, spring is always a welcoming sight as it signals the start of longer walks in the park and more time in the garden. The backyard is usually a fun place for you and your pooch to play and run around. However, certain types of plants are dangerous to dogs and can make your backyard a safety hazard. Experts advise that some spring plants and flowers, both indoors and outdoors, can be harmful to your pooch and should be avoided at all costs. Some of these plants are known to cause upset stomachs, itching, vomiting, and, in severe cases, even cardiac arrest in dogs. Craig Wilson, co-founder, director, and gardening expert at Gardeners Dream, has listed the toxic flowers and plants you should keep from the home and garden if you have a dog. DaffodilsDid you know that daffodils, one of the most popular heralds of spring, are poisonous to both cats and dogs? These trumpet-shaped flowers contain a toxic compound called lycorine which causes stomach pain and diarrhea when ingested. Bulbs are the most toxic part of the daffodil plant, but dogs can also get sick after consuming the flowers. Even drinking the water from a vase that contains daffodils can cause toxicity in dogs.Tulips All parts of the tulip plant - bulbs, stems, leaves, and flowers - are toxic to both cats and dogs. The bulb stores the highest concentration of toxins, making it the most toxic part of the plant. Most dogs will experience drooling, diarrhea, and vomiting after consuming tulips. In severe cases, dogs can experience heart problems and difficulty breathing.IrisesColorful and hardy irises are a popular flower in many household gardens. Unfortunately, irises are toxic to dogs and can make your pooch sick if ingested or touched. Irises contain irisin, a toxic compound that triggers tissue irritation when swallowed or touched. The bulbs and rhizomes hold the highest concentration of irisin, making this plant particularly hazardous to dogs who like to dig.Hyacinths Many people like planting hyacinths in their gardens, but these tall and vibrant plants are harmful to dogs. Hyacinths belong to the same family as tulips and contain calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals are present in all areas of the plant and are shaped like needles. When ingested, these crystals can pierce a dog’s soft tissues, causing severe pain.Symptoms of hyacinth poisoning also include diarrhea, vomiting, abnormal breathing, increased heart rate, and convulsions. If you suspect your pooch has ingested any part of the hyacinth plant, take them to the vet as soon as possible. BluebellsAll parts of the bluebell plant contain a toxic compound called glycosides. Not only are bluebells harmful to cats and dogs, but this plant is also toxic to horses and cattle. If any part of the bluebell plant is consumed, it can cause stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. When eaten in large quantities, bluebells can be fatal.Hydrangeas Many gardeners love the look of hydrangeas in the spring and fall, but dog owners beware - hydrangeas are toxic to dogs. Dogs can become poisoned from eating any part of the hydrangea plant, as they all contain cyanogenic glycoside.Chewing plants with this toxic compound releases cyanide and can result in loss of appetite, vomiting, depression, and increased heart rate. Munching on the flowers, buds, leaves, or bark of the hydrangea plant can make dogs sick, so keep a close eye on your pooch whenever they are sniffing around a hydrangea plant.These are just some of the most common plants that can make your dog sick, but there are more! If your pooch likes to munch on plants, it’s best not to leave them unsupervised in the garden.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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