Dogsandkittens

Sunday, 31 May 2020

Volunteer Pilots Fly Puppies Training to be Service Dogs to Temporary Homes

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused commercial airline travel to be unpredictable. Puppies taking the first step towards becoming service dogs for Canine Companions for Independence are relying on the generosity of volunteer pilots with private planes to travel to their temporary training homes. These special puppies have been flying high as they start the journey to becoming a service dog.

Canine Companions for Independence

Canine Companions for Independence is a nonprofit organization that places service dogs with disabled people completely free of charge. Their website says, “The assistance dogs we breed, raise and train aren’t just the ears, hands and legs of their human partners. They’re also goodwill ambassadors and often, their best friends. They open up new opportunities and new possibilities and spread incredible joy. We unite people with dogs in a powerful program that leads to greater independence and confidence.”

Pilots Bring Puppies to their Temporary Training Homes

In just the few months that we have been experiencing the pandemic, volunteer pilots have flown 108 puppies to southern California, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Montana, and Texas. The puppies are being transferred to temporary homes. “Not only are they giving their plane, but their time, their fuel,” Canine Companions public relations and marketing coordinator Michelle Williams, told Business Insider. “They’re going out for full days … it’s just incredible.”

Families volunteer to help raise and train the puppies from about the age of 8 weeks to about 18 months old. The goal during this time is to socialize the puppies and train them a predetermined set of 30 commands. Afterward, the puppies go back to headquarters to receive their specialized skills training for the line of service they will provide.

The Pilots Love Time in the Air with the Puppies

The pilots are having a blast flying these little cuties across the country. How could they not? Pilot and owner of Sonoma Jet Center Josh Hochberg told Business Insider that he takes his daughters on the puppy flights. The girls play with the puppies for about an hour before the flight begins. This tires out the puppies so they sleep during the whole flight. He said, ““It’s more fulfilling than I could have possibly imagined,” he said. “So fulfilling that I actually got a puppy of my own.” The family brought home an American Brittany name Charlie. He credits his work with Canine Companions entirely.

If you are interested in learning more about supporting Canine Companions for Independence, check out their website.

H/T businessinsider.my
Featured Image Canine Companions for Independence/Facebook

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Veteran and Loyal Dog Live and Die Together

We have all heard stories about couples who are so closely bonded that when one passes away, the other shortly follows. “Dying of a broken heart” happens with dogs and human companions, too. In this beautiful story of devotion and loyalty, we realize the connectedness between those who love each other, in life and in death.

A Life of Service

Daniel Hove spent his entire life in the service of others. He served for many years in the Air Force. After retiring from the military he became a firefighter. He eventually served as the community fire department’s chief.

A Devastating Diagnosis and a Loyal Dog

In 2012, Hove was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, a devastating diagnosis. Greater than 90% of those diagnosed with pancreatic cancer die from the disease. Hove bravely fought the illness with chemotherapy. His fellow firefighters, family members, and loyal Labrador Gunner supported him every step of the way.

Gunner’s support of Hove was no surprise. Gunner and Hove were always together. They hunted together. They hung out together. They were inseparable. When Hove underwent treatments that left him drained of energy, Gunner stayed right there by his side.

Gunner’s Health Seemed to Mirror Hove’s Health

Hove’s cancer progressed despite chemotherapy treatments. Gunner slept in a bed right next to Hove. Gunner’s health declined in line with Hove’s health. It seemed that the two were connected on a cosmic level. Hove’s daughter Heather Nicoletti told KARE11 News, “Gunner could not be without my dad. I think he chose to go with him.”

Best Friends Until the End

Dying is a process very unlike what is portrayed in movies and television. Typically, a person declines over the course of weeks or months. Eventually, most people become unresponsive in the last days or hours of life. They are still breathing and alive but are unable to speak or respond. Hove and Gunner entered this unresponsive stage together. “My dad was unresponsive, the dog was unresponsive. So once we saw how the dog was doing–he wasn’t moving much anymore, not doing well– we knew, it was coming,” Nicoletti told KARE11 News.

Nicoletti made the difficult decision to help Gunner peacefully pass at the vet office where she once worked. She returned home to join her father at his side. Hove died just an hour and a half later. Nicoletti said, “I called the vet clinic I used to work at, they got me in right away and I rushed him up there, put him to sleep. And about an hour and a half later, my dad was gone too.”

Our hearts go out to the family as they grieve both the loss of a father and a four-legged family member. Their bond is a shining example of the power of love between beings of all kinds.

H/T goanimals.com
Featured Image Heather Nicoletti/Facebook

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A Dog’s Guide To Squirrel Warfare – Spring Is In The Air. The Chase Is On.

Hello my fuzzy friends! It’s your boy Barnaby. I’ve been on a bit of a sabbatical for the last couple weeks but I’m back and ready for action. Speaking of action, how about those squirrels? You know what I’m talking about, you hound dog.

I’m going to give you some highly classified information about squirrel warfare. They come in our yards and try to steal any treats we leave lying around. And, if I’m being honest, they’re just plain annoying. Now for what I’m about to share with you, I normally charge my clients three easy payments of $19.99 and a bucket of Milk Bones but for you, it’s free. Just because I like ya. Buckle up, Bichons. It’s time to defend your honor.

Step 1: Treat All Squirrels As If They’re A Threat.

Here’s the scenario:

Your human let you into the backyard to do your dirty work and enjoy a bit of sunshine. You step one paw into the grass and there it is. A squirrel staring at you while it bounces its bushy tail. What would you do?

A) Run back inside and send out the cat.
B) Ignore it like your mom ignores her Tinder matches.
C) Attack it with the same intensity that you attack a compromised slice of cheese.
D) Play dead.

The answer is of course C. It doesn’t matter how small, cute, or fluffy of a squirrel it is. Your one and only job is to run at it full force with the fury of every flea you’ve ever known. The squirrel will inevitably run onto your fence or nearby telephone lines. If you really want to give ’em the ol’ razzle-dazzle, throw your body against the fence as hard as you possibly can. The closer you come to knocking the entire fence down, the better.

Step 2: Run Fast And Look Mean.

Follow that squirrel the length of the yard back and forth as many times as you need to. Once the squirrel is out of sight, keep doing it just for good measure. You’ll know you’re done when you’ve successfully worn the grass down to a muddy strip.

Bark, growl, and show them your chompers. I don’t care if you’re a cuddly puppy that cries when you watch The Notebook. To this squirrel, you’re a highly trained fighting machine that rips the stuffing out of squeaky toys and isn’t afraid to poop in a Louboutin!

Step 3: Go For Their Nuts.

Squirrels love nuts and acorns. Take away their food and you take away their survival. If you see some nuts laying around your yard, scoop them up and gently gnaw on them. DO NOT SWALLOW. Wait until your mom or dad notices that you’re chewing on something. When they inevitably come over and try to take it out of your mouth, then swallow it. I don’t know why. This is just what we do. Don’t question the process, just let it happen.

What To Do If You Successfully Capture A Squirrel

Alright, kids. I’m going to level with you. You’re probably never going to actually capture a squirrel but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. If you ever get a squirrel within your reach, DON’T TOUCH IT. It may be rabid and if you get bit, it’s the cone of shame and lots of shots for you. Trust me. Been there, done that, got the cone to prove it.

Good luck and happy squirrel hunting! This is Barnaby, over and out!

Remember, always be decisive. The road is paved with flat squirrels who couldn’t make a decision!

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It’s Puppy Vs. Adult Doberman In This Adorable Video

Poor Dobermans don’t get the best treatment in media. You usually see them as bullies or vicious attack dogs. Truthfully, a properly trained (and properly loved) Doberman Pinscher makes for a loyal family companion. These strong, fearless dogs love being part of a family and want to protect their pack. They were, after all, literally bred to protect people.

A viral video shows the calmer, loving nature of Dobermans. It also shows why they make such good older siblings. A full-grown adult Doberman, Boss, is obviously much larger than tiny puppy Kyra. This simple fact doesn’t seem to bother Kyra though. She just wants to play with him!

Looks like this tiny puppy sees Boss for who he really is, not how he looks. He isn’t scary, he’s a great playmate. He just happens to be a lot larger. Adult male Dobermans can weigh up to almost 100 pounds. Kyra looks like she can’t weigh more than 7 pounds! In just a few years though, she could get all the way up to 77 pounds.

While their playdate appears to be supervised, that doesn’t seem necessary. Boss exhibits an older dog’s patience as Kyra bats at his feet.

Dobermans are intelligent dogs which can sometimes lead to stubbornness. But, if they’re trained and socialized at a young age they end up as loving siblings like Boss. Kyra has a great role model to grow up alongside!

Kyra’s spunk and fearlessness also show how great this breed is. She has no qualms about facing off against a much, much larger dog.

Watch the adorable video of Boss and Kyra’s play time below:

Commenters on the video chimed in to emphasize what great companions Dobermans are.

“I raised two girls with dobes and they were great with them. I love dobermans!” – Darlene Pomeroy Sullivan

“Gentle giants. Such big babies. Our dobie male was a big puppy and always wanted to crawl in your lap. Really miss him. Would love to eventually get another. -Vaynece Lewis

Doberman Pinscher Rescue Organizations

Did seeing this video make you want a Dobie? Here are some Doberman rescue organizations to start your search.

California Doberman Pinscher Rescue

DPCA Rescue

Doberman Rescue Unlimited Of New England

Lone Star Dobermans

And if you do rescue a Doberman, the internet could certainly use more adorable playtime footage!

H/T: Cesar’s Way
Featured Image: Screenshot, @starkl/Rumble

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Former Bait Dog Becomes The Newest Disney Princess

If you saw Abigail the Pit Bull today, you’d never know she had a rough past. She’s as happy as can be, and she’s also very popular on social media. However, her life started out as a nightmare.

Abigail was rescued from a suspected dogfighting ring in Florida. She had infected wounds covering her face, head, and neck. Additionally, her ear was missing. After long, extensive medical procedures, Abigail was saved and ready to live her best life. Today, her journey is being featured on a popular Disney+ show!

Abigail’s Journey

Back in 2016, Love is Fur Ever Dog Rescue saved Abigail from a crowded Miami shelter. She would’ve been euthanized if they hadn’t come to the rescue. The vets who helped her heal said it was the worst situation they’d ever seen. It wasn’t easy, but they were able to save the sweet dog’s life.

During her recovery, she had to wear a bandage around her missing ear. Although it actually looked more like a headband. So, her foster mom decided to buy some real headbands for Abigail to hide her scar. Over time, those headbands quickly multiplied. Soon, she had a wide variety of plain headbands, bows, and flowers.

RELATED: Formerly Abused Pit Bull, Famous For Her Headbands, Wins Hero Dog Award

From there, Abigail became social media famous. Her foster mom created a Facebook account to share Abigail’s journey. She posted cute pictures of the rescue pup wearing all the different headbands. Everyone fell in love with her right away. So, when Abigail went up for adoption, over 100 people applied to be her new family.

Finally, Abigail got the forever home she deserved. She was adopted by Megan and Jason Steinke, who already had another rescue dog named Tala. Abigail adjusted to her new home right away. Of course, her new family agreed to keep her adorable Facebook page up and running too.

A Real-Life Princess

Recently, Disney reached out to Abigail’s parents through her Facebook page. At first, they were in shock. They couldn’t believe that the real Disney actually wanted to hear about their rescue dog. The company explained that they wanted to feature Abigail in their new Disney+ show called It’s a Dog’s Life.

“She’s going to be the newest Disney Princess,” said Megan Steinke. “It’s just been so inspiring to see the impact a dog can make on people, and really advocate for the breed of Pit Bull, and help rescue dogs. Rescue dogs aren’t broken. They have so much love to give, and Abigail is an example of that.”

Every episode of It’s a Dog’s Life is 30 minutes long. It tells the story of two working dogs and one ‘hometown hero’ dog. In the May 29th episode, Abigail will be the hometown hero dog.

Abigail’s parents are so proud of her. They can’t believe that their special dog is about to be a star. They hope that Abigail’s story will not only inspire others but also spread awareness about Pit Bulls and dogfighting. Dogs like Abigail deserve better, so it’s important for the world to hear her story.

Tune in to Disney+ to see Abigail’s moment in the spotlight. Also, to check out her story and her new headbands, visit her Facebook page, Bonnets for Abigail.

H/T: fox4now.com
Featured Image: @BonnetsForAbigail/Facebook

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Sir Patrick Stewart Loves To Show His Pitties!

You know him from X-Men, Logan, and Star Trek. He’s a likable guy with a handsome British accent. Now it’s time for him to show us his Pitties! Sir Patrick Stewart is not only a hero on the silver screen but he’s also a hero in real life! He is a lover of all things Pitbull and has dedicated much of his life to giving rescue Pits a second chance at love.

It All Started When Ginger Stole His Heart

His love of dogs was resurrected in recent years when he became the foster dad to Ginger. He met Ginger at an event that benefited a local rescue and the rest was history. He and his wife, Sunny Ozell, have continued welcoming dogs into their home ever since! After Ginger there was Emma, then came Leonard, then Ella, and we can’t forget Orson. To be honest, Sir Patrick Stewart has fostered more dogs than there are movies in the X-Men franchise, and that’s saying something!

“Last March, we had one month left on the lease of our Los Angeles rental home, and it was a perfect place to share with a four-legged friend. Our plan was that when we moved out, so would Ginger, to her forever home. It became clear, pretty much immediately, that Patrick and I were completely naïve. Within forty-eight hours of sharing our home with Ginger, we were head-over-heels in love, and began investigating how we could fold this 62 pounds of red-nosed pibble perfection into our rather hectic lives,” Sunny Ozell once posted on Facebook.

The Captain Of The Starship Enterprise Is A Softie

The captain of the Starship Enterprise likes to snuggle puppies, but you didn’t hear that from me!

Each pup has warmed his heart and quickly won over every ounce of love he could give. Sir Patrick Stewart loves splashing his precious Pits with pool water and taking a nice afternoon nap on the couch (perfectly snuggled and snoring away with his four-legged friends). His movie roles might make him seem like he has an impermeable personality, but his relationship with his dogs proves that to be – as Dwight Schrute would say – FALSE.

View this post on Instagram

Afternoon couch nap yesterday with Miss Emma. (That’s her snoring not me.) #fosteringsaveslives #adoptdontshop #pitbullsarelove #pitbullsarefamily

A post shared by Patrick Stewart (@sirpatstew) on Apr 6, 2019 at 9:34am PDT

He is so enamored by his dogs that he has been diligently working to change legislation in the United Kingdom to have more acceptance of Pitbulls. After all, he splits his time between the U.S. and the U.K., so of course, he wants his pups to be able to travel just as freely.

Who knew Sir Patrick Stewart was the hero we were all waiting for? Here’s one more adorable video for the road. You’re welcome.

View this post on Instagram

Kisses. #NationalPitBullAwarenessDay

A post shared by Patrick Stewart (@sirpatstew) on Oct 26, 2019 at 12:47pm PDT

h/t: boredpanda.com
Featured Photo: @SirPatStew/Instagram

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