Infographic: Protecting Your Dog from Halloween Chocolate

For all the fun of Halloween, when it comes to dogs, chocolate is NO treat. According to Petplan pet insurance, 32% more likely to suffer food poisoning during Halloween week versus any other time of the year. What’s the top risk? Chocolate!

Chocolate is poisonous to pets because it contains toxic theobromine, and different types of chocolate affect pets differently because they have varying levels of theobromine. Baking chocolate has the highest concentration, and is therefore the most toxic – followed by dark, milk and then white chocolate.

If your dog eats chocolate, you need to know three things: how much theobromine the chocolate contains, how much your dog ate and how much he weighs. If your dog ingests close to 20mg of theobromine per pound of body weight, he’s in the danger zone for food poisoning.

Milligrams of theobromine per ounce:

• Baking chocolate – 450mg/oz
• Dark chocolate – 160mg/oz
• Milk chocolate – 64mg/oz
• White chocolate – 1mg/oz

Here’s how to do the math: Multiply the ounces of chocolate ingested by the milligrams of theobromine per ounce and divide that by the weight of the dog in pounds. The closer the resulting number is to 20, the worse the toxic effects will haunt him. For example:

• A 25-lb. dog who eats 3 ounces of milk chocolate: 3oz x 64mg/oz = 192/25lbs = 7.7mg/lb (non-toxic level of theobromine)
• A 25-lb. dog who eats 3 ounces of dark chocolate: 3oz x 160mg/oz = 480/25lbs = 19.2mg/lb (dangerous level of theobromine)

What to do next: A number close to 20 indicates a toxic level of theobromine that can terrorize your pet’s health. Get to the vet or an emergency clinic immediately! If the number is well below 20, your pet’s tummy may turn on him, but you don’t need to be spooked. Call your vet for tips on how to treat signs of trouble.

Twitter Thursday: October 29

From an A-list actress who has taken on the real life role of pet parent to a rescue dog to the array of animal-loving luminaries who used their star wattage to shine a spotlight on courageous canines during an awards presentation, stars once again showed their support for our pals with paws this past week. In this edition of Twitter Thursday we not only take a look at high-profile entertainers helping paws causes, but also one state’s week-long celebration of all our friends with fur, fins and feathers, a new New York City cat cafe that is helping felines find forever homes… and as always, listings of adorable, adoptable shelter dogs who need forever families to love. For all the news of Tinseltown stars helping our tail-wagging chums, follow @HollywoodDogs on Twitter!

Spotlight on Shelter Dogs

Each year approximately 1.2 million dogs lose their lives in the U.S. shelter system. Please help to turn the tide on this sad statistic by sharing the following photos of shelter dogs via social media:

California

Brownie, a 2 1/2-yr-old Chihuahua mix at a shelter in #Gardena, #CA, needs a home https://t.co/kNsbxxDuRC URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 26, 2015

Batman, a 5-yr-old Chihuahua mix at a shelter in Moreno Valley, #CA, needs a home https://t.co/vfzhP8lWDT URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 29, 2015

Michigan

Calypso, a beautiful Lab mix at a shelter in Southgate, #MI, needs a forever home https://t.co/qB1NOKIkJU URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 27, 2015

Jackson, a young Pit Bull mix at a shelter in Southgate, #MI, needs a forever home https://t.co/zeIOTq7UuG URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 28, 2015

Ohio

Bianca, a 2-yr-old Shepherd/Boxer at a shelter in #Lisbon, #OH, needs a home https://t.co/MkmPYLUMcL URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 23, 2015

Crystal M. Rose, a senior Pit Bull mix at a shelter in #Lisbon, #OH, needs a home https://t.co/S3mLzrXCz1 URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 26, 2015

Texas

Molly, a pretty Lab mix at a shelter in #Pasadena, #TX, needs a forever home https://t.co/yTN6TFQ9Or URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 23, 2015

A116205, a young Pit Bull mix at a shelter in #Pasadena, #TX, needs a home https://t.co/QeSrw8Wldx URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 26, 2015

Twizzler, a young Boxer/Pit Bull at a shelter in Texas City, #TX, needs a home https://t.co/IN9JcGBcul URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 28, 2015

#PawPromise Adoptable Dog of the Week Each week we promote the option of pet adoption through DogTipper’s #PawPromise program. This week we introduced readers to Tango, a three-year-old Chihuahua mix at Living Free Animal Sanctuary in Mountain Center, California who will be dancing on Cloud Nine when he finds a forever pet parent to love:

Tango, a 3-yr-old Chihuahua mix at @LivingFreeRescu in #CA, is @DogTipper‘s #PawPromise Adoptable Dog of the Week https://t.co/aEaCWdykrw — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 28, 2015

Famous Friends of Fidos Help Dogs in Need Be sure to tune in to the 2015 Hero Dog Awards, airing October 30th on The Hallmark Channel!

Actor James Denton and @BethStern co-host the 2015 Hero Dog Awards, airing Oct. 30th on @hallmarkchannel https://t.co/EYj0dejLec — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 29, 2015

A tiny terrier named Chester from Paw Works Animal Rescue has made a big impression on The Big Bang Theory‘s Kaley Cuoco! The star recently announced that she has cast her new four-year-old four-legged friend in the real life role of her fur baby:

Congrats to The Big Bang Theory’s Kaley Cuoco, who has adopted a rescue dog from @PawWorks! https://t.co/meZ4RiOwbK — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 27, 2015

Animal Planet personality Shorty Rossi of Pit Boss fame will meet fans and talk about the rescue of Rovers who are often hounded by prejudice at the Tucson Pet Expo, taking place on Halloween. Arizona animal lovers can also sign up their Spot for a frightfully fun Ultimate Pet Costume Contest, and meet adorable adoptables from area rescue organizations and shelters:

Meet Pit Boss star @ShortyRossi & lots of adoptables this Halloween at the #Tucson Pet Expo https://t.co/ZmdUv3DMJe #AmazingPetExpo — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 25, 2015

Parks and Recreations star Aubrey Plaza teamed up with former co-star Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls website to promote the option of pet adoption:

Parks and Recreation star Aubrey Plaza promotes pet adoption on Amy Poehler’s @smrtgrls website https://t.co/KyAZM0y6Td — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 25, 2015

A celebration of all of our friends with fur, fins and feathers, Arkansas Week for the Animals continues through November 1st:

The 6th annual #Arkansas Week for the Animals continues through Nov. 1st w/pet adoption events, birdwatching & more https://t.co/DOW1eqaeGg — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 28, 2015

HollywoodDogs also shines a spotlight on news regarding our pals who purr, such as the grand opening of Koneko NYC, a cat cafe which features adoptables from Anjellicle Cats Rescue:

The new cat cafe @KonekoNYC, featuring adoptables from @anjelliclecats, officially opens today! https://t.co/XqYFJXpbZX — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 28, 2015

Along with news of celebrities showing support for companion animals in need, HollywoodDogs also shines a spotlight on the ongoing efforts of organizations to create a better tomorrow for canines in crisis, such as British charity Wetnose Animal Aid’s recent trip to Romania to help shelter dogs:

The founders of @WetnoseAnimal @Paws2RescueUK & @WAH_Foundation_ recently traveled to Romania to help dogs in need https://t.co/GxiDPDcYLr — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 26, 2015

How Long Can You Store Dog Treats?

We put treats for two days in our USA-made Paws for a Cause treat jars…and Irie and Tiki KNOW they’re in there!

Wondering how long you can store your dog treats? We’ve got an easy rundown here for both commercial and homemade treats!

Storing Commercial Dog Treats

Commercial dog treats include preservatives to make them shelf stable. Typically they are intended to be stored in their packaging which has been developed to extend the freshness. Look for a “best by” date on packaging.

If you find a favorite brand on sale, you can freeze commercial treats to extend their freshness. (See below for our freezing tips.)

Storing Homemade Dog Treats

Because homemade treat don’t include preservatives, they have a short shelf life. It’s important to completely cool the treats before storing to prevent moisture from shortening the shelf life (and creating a soggy treat!)

Homemade meat treats have a shorter shelf life than baked goods like peanut butter treats. To be safe, meat treats should be stored in the refrigerator 3-4 days, much like your own leftovers. Baked goods can be stored in the refrigerator about a week.

The best place to store a large batch of homemade treats is in your refrigerator or freezer, although your dog might have other ideas! When we have homemade treats, we keep them in the refrigerator and put just a day or two’s worth in the cookie jar at a time. Letting the treats come to room temperature will make the treats stronger smelling, especially important for training treats.

Freezing Dog Treats

Freezing treats is a great way to handle the large volume you might have when making your own treats.

How long can you freeze treats? According to the US Food and Drug Administration, freezing at 0°F keeps food safe indefinitely but the quality of the food may change after a certain period. Food stored for long periods will remain safe, but if you’re sharing it with your dog, you may notice a change in texture or flavor after a 4- to 6-month period for most foods. Regardless of freezer time, it’s always important to use airtight storage to avoid freezer burn.

Trick or Treat #Recipe for Halloween Dog Treats

Are you ready for doggie trick or treating? We’ve been preparing some of Irie and Tiki’s favorite pumpkin and peanut butter treats, ones that are quick and easy to make. We’ll be filling our USA-made Paws For-A-Cause treat jars with them, ready for treating and for sharing with any four-legged trick or treaters!

Below you’ll find our recipe, one reprinted from our The Healthy Hound Cookbook. Please feel free to share the recipe with your friends and pin it to your favorite recipe boards!

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Paws For-A-Cause is a DogTipper advertiser. As always, we only share products that we use with our own pets.

Free Bracelet with Purchase!

It’s *finally* starting to feel like Halloween season here! This weekend’s heavy rains followed by a cold front now mean some fall chill in the air…and it’s clear that Halloween is just days away!

We’re having a special promotion in our PawZaar gift store through Halloween! With every order (whether you order jewelry, books, cookie cutters, bags, or more), you’ll receive a boxed Black Cat Bracelet in your shipment. The bracelets are perfect for your own fall fun or as a gift to your favorite feline-loving friend!

#PawPromise Adoptable Dog of the Week: Tango

A four-legged Fred Astaire whose paws dance over the grass whenever he romps in the park, Tango is dreaming of the day when he will waltz around with a forever pet parent to call his own. A 5-pound doggie dynamo, the neutered Chihuahua mix — who is already house trained — is searching for a special someone who loves the outdoors, taking long walks, and making time each day for lots of play.

Although Tango is three years old, he’s still a pup at heart who still must learn how to compose himself on a leash during a constitutional with his new human companion. Tango also needs to figure out that riding in a car can be a fun adventure, not an anxiety-inducing activity.

Tango is just one of the many dogs, cats, puppies and kittens in the care of Living Free Animal Sanctuary, a no-kill non-profit in Mountain Center, California which has been saving the lives of our furry friends since 1980. Living Free Animal Sanctuary offers a cageless environment for companion animals who were facing their fate in kill shelters, with dogs residing in kennels-in-the-round complete with open play areas.

PawZaar’s #PawPromise Program

Every week, we highlight an adoptable dog (and an adoptable cat over on CatTipper.com), choosing from among rescues and shelters nominated by our readers. If you’d like to nominate your favorite shelter or rescue, please visit our nomination form. Ten percent of the proceeds from our sales every week are donated to the week’s spotlighted rescue.

Photo Credit: Living Free Animal Sanctuary

Dog Pulls Off Epic Engagement Photobomb

“Usually, if someone’s face was blocked out, we wouldn’t deliver a picture. This one is obviously ‘the Louie picture,’” said Karin Berdal of DnK Photography.
Read more

Win a Fetching Apparel Long-Sleeve Tee! (3 winners)

Fall’s cool weather means it’s time to snuggle up in a long-sleeve tee as we head out on our daily dog walks–and you can’t beat a tee that also helps homeless pets!

Fetching Apparel produces tees, caps, totes, mugs and more. This family-owned company based in Abingdon, Virginia donates 40 percent of its profits to spay/neuter programs and rescue efforts (and they’re home to two rescue dogs of their own!)

Now THREE lucky members of the DogTipper community will win one of Fetching Apparel’s super soft, long-sleeve navy or heather gray tees featuring Fetching Apparel’s rescue dog Jeffrey! You’ll find the Fetching Apparel slogan (“Go get it!”) on the back.

The heather gray tee is available in sizes S-3XL, and the navy blue is offered from XS-2XL. You’ll find both Women’s and Men’s sizes available.

Enter the giveaway below for a chance to win your choice of these two tees and spread the word about Fetching Apparel’s great rescue efforts!

 Learn About Fetching Apparel

How to Enter

You’ll enter in the widget below; you can enter with as many or as few entry methods as you choose. You can return to the widget any time during the giveaway period for more entries. Good luck!

Entry-Form

This giveaway is sponsored and fulfilled by Fetching Apparel.

Win a Kurgo Dog Coat!

Welcome to another great group Kurgo giveaway! We’re joining some super blogs to help prepare one lucky dog for the upcoming winter with a giveaway for a Kurgo dog coat or dog jacket.

How do you define winter fun with your dog? A romp in the snow? Cooking dinner over an open campfire? A relaxing walk after a long day of work? Kurgo has a variety of both dog coats and lighter dog jackets to make sure that your fun continues right into the winter months, whether your region’s winter weather means ice and snow or just chilly winds.

The winner will receive the style, color and size of their choice! You’ll be able to select from options including the stylish Loft Jacket, a reversible jacket that’s also waterproof…

…the North Country dog coat which even comes with its own LED light, perfect for those short winter days…

…and lighter jackets like the Allagash Dog Jacket, waterproof, washable, and made without PVC….

The winner will get to select their favorite choice…and will be all set for a season of cold weather adventure!

How to Enter

You’ll enter in the widget below. One winner will be selected at random; Kurgo will ship the prize directly to the winner. This giveaway is open to readers in the USA and Canada. Good luck!

Entry-Form

Disclosure: This giveaway prize is sponsored by Kurgo; the company will ship the prize directly to the winner. All opinions and statements are entirely my own.

Twitter Thursday: October 22

From posing for a calendar that will help dogs and cats who are counting the days until they find forever homes to literally using their voices to speak for shelter dogs, celebrities once again promoted the option of pet adoption this past week. In the latest edition of Twitter Thursday we take a look at the efforts of stars such as Kevin Nealon, Jane Lynch, Parks and Recreation‘s Aubrey Plaza, rocker Eddie Money and NHL team The Detroit Red Wings, and highlight shelter dogs who are looking for a pet parent to love. For all the news of celebrities who show support for our four-legged friends and listings of adoptables, follow us on Twitter at @HollywoodDogs!

Shining a Spotlight on Shelter Dogs

Approximately 1.2 million dogs lose their lives each year in the U.S. shelter system. Please help to change this sad statistic by sharing the following photos of adorable adoptables via social media:

California

Farley, a 5-yr-old Terrier mix at a shelter in San Jacinto, #CA, needs a home https://t.co/1xajrrFjdf URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 21, 2015

A455807, a 2-yr-old Parson Russell Terrier mix at a Moreno Valley #CA shelter,needs a home https://t.co/508i3DUgSi URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 20, 2015

Shawn, a 5-yr-old Chihuahua mix at a shelter in #Gardena, #CA, needs a home https://t.co/Xl8ASxjg8w URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 20, 2015

A455802, a 1-yr-old Chihuahua mix at a shelter in Moreno Valley #CA, needs a forever home https://t.co/ZOxGkAXtll URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 19, 2015

Junior, a 1-yr-old Chihuahua mix at a shelter in San Jacinto, #CA, needs a home http://t.co/W6av669m7P URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 15, 2015

A455602, a 1-yr-old Chihuahua mix at a shelter in Moreno Valley #CA, needs a home http://t.co/3l0vBoKP99 URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 16, 2015

A455768, a cute 7-yr-old Chihuahua mix at a shelter in Moreno Valley #CA, needs a home http://t.co/NUE0IEsgos URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 17, 2015

River, a 2-yr-old Rhodesian Ridgeback mix at a shelter in San Jacinto #CA, needs a home http://t.co/s0sxfmmvCw URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 17, 2015

Texas

Clarissa, a pretty Lab mix at a shelter in Texas City, #TX, needs a forever home http://t.co/9Z6bvFkXFh URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 17, 2015

Rob, a 7-yr-old Miniature Pinscher mix at a shelter in #Killeen, #TX, needs a home http://t.co/jp1EsmeLOT URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 15, 2015

Tony, a 9-month-old Catahoula Leopard Dog mix at a shelter in #Killeen #TX, needs a home https://t.co/Ordj0OWsI4 URGENT #AdoptableDogofDay

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 21, 2015

#PawPromise Adoptable Dog of the Week Each week DogTippers promotes the option of pet adoption through our #PawPromise Program. This week we introduced readers to Buddy, a three-year-old Labrador Retriever mix in the car of Lifelong Friends Pet Adoptions in Lago Vista, Texas:

Buddy, a 3-yr-old Lab mix at a Lago Vista #TX no-kill shelter, is @DogTipper‘s #PawPromise Adoptable Dog of the Week https://t.co/q318HqcsEM

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 21, 2015

Famous Friends of Fidos Help Dogs in Need Raising people’s spirits as he raises funds for a paws cause, comic actor Kevin Nealon (Saturday Night Live, Weeds) will be the headliner for the 23rd annual Hot Dogs & Cool Cats Gala, benefiting The Humane Society of Sarasota County in Sarasota, Florida:

Actor/comedian @kevin_nealon will be the headliner at @SarasotaHumane‘s Hot Dogs & Cool Cats Gala http://t.co/5l1Naa5v6E

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 15, 2015

Former Parks and Recreation star Aubrey Plaza lends her voice to a homeless dog who is looking for the perfect pet parent in Heavy Petting, a new web series on Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls website:

Parks and Recreation star Aubrey Plaza (@evilhag) promotes pet adoption https://t.co/KyAZM0y6Td

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 21, 2015

Encouraging fans to get in the game and help dogs and cats in need, members of the Detroit Red Wings posed with dogs on their home team and adoptables who are looking to score a forever home for the 2016 Pucks for Paws calendar. All of the proceeds from the sale of the limited edition item will benefit The Michigan Humane Society:

The @DetroitRedWings have posed with their dogs & adoptables for 2016 Pucks for Paws calendar benefiting @mhumane http://t.co/TjhMUs0BKh

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 17, 2015

Over 1,000 adoptable dogs and cats from L.A. area shelters and rescues who hope to be cast in the real life role of a furry family member of a loving pet parent will be at the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum on November 7 – 8 for the NKLA Super Adoption event:

Meet lots of adoptables at the @NKLA Super Adoption Nov. 7 – 8 at the La Brea Tar Pits in L.A.! http://t.co/HsiRTdifPO

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 19, 2015

Soon to star in the new CBS comedy series Angel from Hell, actress Jane Lynch is a true guardian angel for animals in need. The former Glee cast member will act as the celebrity host of The Rescue Train’s Race for the Rescues at The Rose Bowl in Pasadena on October 24th:

Join Glee star @janemarielynch this Sat. at The Rose Bowl in Pasadena #CA for @therescuetrain‘s Race for the Rescues https://t.co/tFF7uiWLi5

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 19, 2015

Only a few coveted seats remain for Rock and Roll to the Rescue 2! Eddie Money will raise the roof for those who woof during a concert at the Hard Rock Casino in Northfield, Ohio on November 8th which will benefit Geauga Humane Society’s Rescue Village:

Benefiting @GeaugaHumane‘s Rescue Village, rocker @ImEddieMoney to perform at Rock and Roll to the Rescue 2 concert http://t.co/2kYnDpiJws

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 14, 2015

Don’t forget to celebrate Pit Bull Awareness Day on October 24th!

Celebrate our Pittie pals October 24th during National Pit Bull Awareness Day https://t.co/BOC3XBkv0N — Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 20, 2015

Along with shining a spotlight on stars who show support Spots in need, HollywoodDogs also offers news of famous friends of felines who help our pals who purr. This week on DogTipper’s sister site CatTipper we reported on Beth Stern’s upcoming children’s book Yoda Gets a Buddy, which will raise funds for the creation of North Shore Animal League America’s Feline Wellness and Adoption Center, a 140,000 square-foot, cage-free facility:

Yoda Gets a Buddy, a soon to be released children’s book by @BethStern, will help cats in need https://t.co/qJE4FswGNj

— Hollywood Dogs (@HollywoodDogs) October 20, 2015

Help People + Pets with Our New RESCUE Tote!

I am so, so excited to announce the launch of our latest PawZaar product: the RESCUE Tote Bag. I love the design and size of our new tote, perfect for a day out with the doggies or a trip to the store, but, even more, I love the story behind this special bag.

These bags are created by a company that we’ve partnered with in Kolkata, India, one that rescues women from the sex trade, providing them a safe place to live. These women, most the victims of human trafficking or driven by poverty into life on the streets, are trained as seamstresses and paid a fair wage as well as given both health insurance and a pension plan. For many, it’s the first time in their lives they have lived a safe, secure life.

This tote bag is produced using certified organic cotton, a deep black signifying the dark times the women and the homeless pets that this bag assists once faced. Our globe and paw logo is hand silkscreened by the women on the bag in vibrant blue to symbolize the sunny times ahead.

The tote is lined with the colorful fabric used to make the Sari, the Indian draping garment that women wear with grace and beauty. Some of my favorite memories of a two-week assignment that took us to India are of the women proudly wearing their saris as they went about their everyday business, whether that was working in a field in a remote part of the country or working in the bustling cities. The Sari fabrics are colorful and varied; each bag’s lining is unique so no two bags are alike!

Every purchase of the RESCUE bag not only helps rescue and employ a woman in India but also helps the week’s featured pet rescue!

The RESCUE bag measures 15 x 16.5 x 5.5 inches (H x W x D). The main compartment includes a magnetic clasp; the front of the bag as two external pockets.

Special Offer

Right now, the RESCUE Tote is on sale for $34.95–and, with each purchase, we’re also offering a free Run to Rescue dog bracelet (or our Black Cat Bracelet), boxed and ready for gifting. Just leave us a note with your purchase as to which you’d like to receive!

K9 Kiah Proves Pit Bulls Can Work in Law Enforcement

A time to celebrate the contributions made by dogs dubbed ‘bully breeds,’ National Pit Bull Awareness Day will be observed on October 24th.

Although Pit Bull-type dogs have played a prominent role in history, from an American Staffordshire Terrier’s portrayal of Petey in the classic Our Gang comedies to World War I hero Sergeant Stubby (a Bull Terrier who defended his fellow soldiers of the 102nd Infantry), today Pitties are often find themselves plagued by misconceptions. Canines like Kiah, a narcotics detection dog for the City of Poughkeepsie Police Department, proudly reminds those who voice their concerns about bully breeds, however, of the reasons why Pit Bulls were given the title of “America’s Dog.”

Saved by Kirby Animal Care Services in San Antonio from a life of severe abuse, K9 Kiah was given a second chance in life thanks to a program made possible by a scholarship provided by American Farm Foundation, in partnership with Universal K9 (which has rescued over 150 shelter dogs) and Austin Pets Alive!  Through her work, Kiah is showing the world that Pit Bull-type dogs can perform law enforcement jobs previously given only to purebred, purpose-bred dogs, and that shelter dogs can rise to the challenge of serving and protecting the public.

For more information regarding National Pit Bull Awareness Day:

• visit www.nationalpitbullawarenessday.org

Photo courtesy CoynePR

Purina Pet Haven Opens as Manhattan’s 1st Domestic Violence Shelter Dog Park

This post is sponsored by Purina. I am being compensated for helping spread the word about this important shelter, but DogTipper only shares information we feel is relevant to our readers.

It’s difficult to imagine the heartbreaking decision that many women have to face in choosing between seeking safety from an abusive relationship and abandoning their pet to live with their abuser. Fortunately, more domestic violence shelters are now beginning to see the importance of welcoming both families and their pets, recognizing that not only is the pet’s safety at stake but often the decision of whether to leave an abusive relationship or not hinges upon the ability of women to take their entire family with them to safety — including furry, feathered and finned family members.

Recently the Urban Resource Institute (URI) and Nestlé Purina PetCare (Purina) celebrated the creation of Manhattan’s first-ever dog park located in a domestic violence shelter. This innovative new dog park is located at Urban Women’s Retreat (UWR), a emergency shelter that is part of the URIPALS (People and Animals Living Safely) program.

URIPALS is the only New York City domestic violence shelter and one of only a few in the United States that welcomes not only the human survivors of domestic violence but also their pets. The shelter has assisted 43 families with 63 pets, including 38 cats and 18 dogs as well as reptiles and fish.

Now the shelter also features a dog park, a place for families and their pets to enjoy as they begin the process of healing — together.

“Through the URIPALS program we have witnessed first-hand how important it is for survivors to have their beloved pets by their side while they heal,” said Nathaniel Fields (third from left in top photo), President and CEO of URI. “From early on in the URIPALS program, Purina has been committed to supporting survivors of domestic violence and their pets. We know that the new dog park will play an integral part in helping our clients heal, and for that we are extremely grateful to Purina.”

This important collaboration continues beyond the support of the shelter and dog park to also include the donation of Purina ONE brand dog food, Purina Cat Chow brand cat food, dog treats and cat litter. Purina and URI are also working to provide welcome kits to the families with products ranging from pet travel carriers to pet beds, safety gates, bowls, cat scratching posts, leashes, and more–an important step in putting a positive paw forward on the road to a new life.

“For most pet owners, the bond with their pet is incredibly strong, and for people in abusive relationships their pet can be an important source of comfort,” said Dr. Kurt Venator (fourth from the left in top photo), Purina veterinarian. “Purina is very proud to support the Urban Resource Institute in its efforts to keep families and their pets together during this time of healing.”

For More Information:

• visit www.urinyc.org

Photos courtesy Purina

#PawPromise Adoptable Dog of the Week: Buddy

If you’re looking for a playful four-pawed pal, Buddy’s your guy! A three-year-old Labrador Retriever mix, Buddy dreams of bounding around in a big backyard, playing fetch with a forever family to call his own.

Neutered and current on his vaccinations, Buddy needs to meet all of the members of his potential pet parent’s household before he can be adopted.

Buddy is just one of the fortunate dogs and cats who have been given a new lease on life thanks to Lifelong Friends Pet Adoptions, a no-kill, all-volunteer animal shelter which finds loving homes for companion animals in the Austin, Texas area. Established in 1997, over the years the non-profit has helped more than 5,000 of our barking buddies and purring pals find pet parents to love.

PawZaar’s #PawPromise Program

Every week, we highlight an adoptable dog (and an adoptable cat over on CatTipper.com), choosing from among rescues and shelters nominated by our
readers. If you’d like to nominate your favorite shelter or rescue, please visit our nomination form. Ten percent of the proceeds from our sales every week are donated to the week’s spotlighted rescue.

Photo Credit: Lifelong Friends Pet Adoptions

Dog Facilitates Rescue of Dog Buddy from House Fire

Emergency services credit a dog for facilitating the rescue of his sibling from a house fire.
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Dog Goes from Terrified Rescue to Beloved Family Member

Julie Mack, writer with MLive, shares Joyce's story, and how one dog went from a terrified rescue, to a beloved member of a wonderful family.
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Two-Legged Stray Gets Gift of a Lifetime

Thanks to a large community of animal lovers, Lily reunited with her loving family and is getting a wheel cart to help improve her quality of life.
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Former Stray Refuses to Leave Owner, Accompanies Man to ER

Bandido jumped inside the patrol car and refused to leave. Officers drove the injured man and his loyal dog to the hospital.
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Expeditioners Rescue Puppy Rescued from Desert

Watch this video and find out how this cute little puppy went from the desert to a California home.
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Dog Gets New Best Friend

Someone is really excited to meet a new friend.
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Dogs Love to go for Walks

Invite your dog to go out for a walk and watch what happens.
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UPDATE: Dog that Stood Guard Over Friend Given Award by Governor

We told you about Phoebe and Tillie's story back in September. Tillie was recently awarded a Very Good Dog Award from the state for her heroism.
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NEW: Our Run to Rescue Bracelet (+ a 50% Off Sale!!)

We’re so excited to announce our new Run to Rescue Bracelet!! This stainless steel and silicone bracelet is the latest addition to our PawZaar gift store and is our exclusive design.

Similar in style to our Black Cat Bracelet, this bracelet sports a stainless steel overlay etched to reveal the black silicone band below. You can wear the bracelet around the clock; it’s suitable for all your daily activities including bathing (or bathing your dog!)

Right now in celebration of the launch, we’re offering the bracelet at 50% off the usual price, making it a great buy for your favorite pet sitter, dog walker, vet, groomer…or yourself! It comes boxed and ready to gift! And, as with all our PawZaar products, 10% of proceeds are donated to the week’s featured rescue.

Detroit Red Wings Calendar Helps Pets in Need

Over the course of NHL history the Detroit Red Wings have won the Stanley Cup championship 11 times. Now the current roster of players on the professional ice hockey team have also won the admiration of animal lovers for offering an assist to dogs and cats in need.

The following animal-loving athletes have teamed up with dogs who are hoping to score a forever home as well as with the furry MVPs (Most Valuable Pups) who play on their own home team for the 2016 Pucks for Paws fundraising calendar:

• Justin Abdelkader
• Jonathan Ericsson
• Danny DeKeyser
• Johan Franzen
• Luke Glendening
• Jimmy Howard
• Niklas Kronwall
• Drew Miller
• Gustav Nyquist
• Riley Sheahan (who has raised funds for, and awareness of, the Michigan Humane Society through the Riley’s Rescues program.)
• Brendan Smith
• Tomas Tatar
• Henrik Zetterberg

The limited edition calendar will not only display the days of the year to come, it will also help to create a better future.  All of the proceeds from the sale of the calendars will benefit The Michigan Humane Society, which has provided comfort and care to homeless companion animals since its start in 1877.

To order the 2016 Pucks for Paws calendar:

• visit DetroitRedWings.com/PucksForPaws

Photo Credit: Detroit Red Wings/Facebook

Fido’s Freebie Friday Prepares for Halloween Season

We’ve been preparing for some fun Halloween photo shoots…but unfortunately the weather is not cooperating! I was going to buy some real pumpkins but, with 100 degree temperatures making a comeback this week, we’ve had to hold off on those plans.

And so we’re recycling some Halloween photos from last year, at least until this weather breaks. I know we have nothing to complain about, though; a step outside is a quick reminder of the wildfires underway just on the other side of Austin, now with 1,500 acres burning.

It’s a good reminder that Halloween safety is the number one priority this holiday season, whether you’re trick or treating with your dog or enjoying an evening campfire.

We’ve got a new week of Fido’s Freebie Friday to share!

Co-hosted with AllThingsDogBlog.com and ToDogwithLove.com, this hop features pet-related giveaways. If you have a blog hosting a giveaway for pets or pet lovers, please be sure to link up!

Disclaimer: Each giveaway has its own entry rules. DogTipper, All Things Dog Blog, and To Dog With Love assume no responsibility for the legality of the rules governing the listings on other sites and giveaways that are posted here. We simply provide this forum as a gathering place for pet product giveaways to be offered. Fulfillment of each giveaway is done by the blog conducting the giveaway, not by the hosts of this giveaway hop; please contact the giveaway host with any questions regarding a giveaway or giveaway prize.