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How 4Knines Has Made My Life Easier
Author: Jodie Panzer Yoshi the Japanese Akitainu and the Process of Treating his Rare Skin Disease Hello there! My name is Jodie Panzer. My husband Jeremy and I are the proud owners of a Japanese Akitainu named “Yoshi”. Most dog owners probably have never heard of the rare canine skin disease called “Sebaceous Adenitis”, but our Yoshi was unfortunately diagnosed with this chronic illness 5 years ago at the age of 4 years old. What is Sebaceous Adenitis? Sebaceous Adenitis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the sebaceous glands of the skin. For some reason, the sebaceous glands stop producing the natural oils that keep the skin and coat healthy. Symptoms can be hair loss, dry flaky skin, and a musty odor. The disease can be mild or severe, and will usually worsen if not treated in one of two ways. One option is to take an immunosuppressant type of medication. The other option is to follow a specialized and consistent oil bathing routine, in order to replenish the skin with necessary oils for a healthy coat. After an unsuccessful trial run with medication, my husband and I decided to go the natural route and give our boy bi-weekly oil baths. The process is very laborious, expensive and time-consuming... but it has been very effective! While we have experienced a few more challenging flare-ups, we are able to keep Yoshi’s coat in healthy condition the majority of the time. For any 4Knines customers who have had the unfortunate luck of experiencing Sebaceous Adenitis, this is the oil bath routine we follow: 1. Bring Yoshi in the shower and soak him in oil from head to paw (We use Alpha Keri oil). 2. Let the oils absorb for at least 30 min. 3. Bring him to the groomer to complete the final steps: (wash out oil with Dawn dish soap, shampoo, and condition with extra-moisturizing products.) You might be wondering “Now what does 4Knines have to do with this? Well since we have to bring Yoshi to the groomer for the finishing touches (we don’t want to clog our pipes with all that dog hair!), this means that we have to bring our oily dog into the car! I had gone through 5 different kinds of car seat covers until I finally found 4Knines! 4Knines was the first brand I bought where the oil did not soak through the cover onto my car seat. Not only did my new 4Knines car seat cover protect my car in all of the right places, but I could actually wash it bi-weekly in the washing machine and it would NOT fall apart! It is still as good as new every time! Bringing Yoshi in the car is finally worry-free. So worry-free that I even felt comfortable enough to put him in our newest car (a Nissan Ariya) and the cover fit perfectly in there too. I have told many of my dog-lover friends about this awesome car seat cover, I am so thankful for 4Knines! Author: Jodie Panzer My name is Jodie Panzer. I live the Chicago suburbs with my husband Jeremy and our 9 year old Japanese Akitainu, Yoshi. I am an Executive Assistant at a local high school and spend my free time traveling the world.
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A Pawsome Adventure: Exploring the World, One Healthy Step at a Time, with My Dog
Every dog parent knows the struggle of planning a vacation without your furry baby. Those pleading eyes staring at you, practically screaming, “Take me with you!” while you’re packing your suitcase. Almost enough to make you cancel all your plans and just cuddle with them all day long.
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Road Trip Adventures Through the American Southwest: A Journey for You and Your Pup
The American Southwest is a land of breathtaking landscapes, rugged terrain, and iconic landmarks that beckon adventurers from all walks of life. From the red rock canyons of Arizona to the towering mesas of Utah, this region offers endless opportunities for exploration. And what better way to experience it than with your furry best friend by your side? A road trip through the Southwest is the perfect way to bond with your dog while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the region. However, to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for both you and your pup, it’s essential to invest in the right gear—like the 4Knines Dog Rear Seat Cover to protect your car and keep your dog safe and comfortable on the road. The American Southwest is a treasure trove of natural wonders and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking through the otherworldly landscapes of Sedona, marveling at the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, or exploring the slot canyons of Antelope Canyon, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring sights to discover. Many of these destinations are dog-friendly, making them ideal for travelers who want to share the experience with their canine companions.One of the highlights of a southwest road trip is the opportunity to hike with your dog. Trails like the Bell Rock Pathway in Sedona or the Rim Trail at the Grand Canyon offer stunning views and manageable terrain for dogs of all sizes. In Utah, Zion National Park features the Pa’rus Trail, a paved path that welcomes leashed pets and provides access to some of the park’s most scenic vistas. These hikes not only allow your dog to stretch their legs but also deepen the bond between you as you explore together.While the Southwest offers endless adventure, the journey itself can be challenging—especially when traveling with a dog. Long hours on the road, dusty trails, and unpredictable weather can take a toll on your vehicle and your pet’s comfort. That’s where the 4Knines Seat Cover comes in. Designed with both durability and safety in mind, this car seat is a must-have for any road trip with your dog.The 4Knines Seat Cover is crafted from heavy-duty, waterproof materials that protect your car’s upholstery from dirt, scratches, and spills. Whether your pup is shaking off dust after a hike or tracking in mud from a rainy trail, the seat’s easy-to-clean surface ensures your car stays pristine. The seat also features a non-slip bottom, keeping it securely in place even during sharp turns or sudden stops.But the benefits don’t stop at protecting your car. The 4Knines Seat Cover is designed with your dog’s safety and comfort in mind. The elevated design allows your pup to look out the window, reducing anxiety and keeping them entertained during long drives. The seat also includes a safety tether to prevent your dog from jumping or falling, ensuring they stay secure no matter where the road takes you. As you plan your Southwest road trip, there are several iconic landmarks and dog-friendly destinations you won’t want to miss: 1. The Grand Canyon, Arizona: One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon is a must-see for any traveler. While dogs aren’t allowed on the inner canyon trails, the South Rim offers plenty of dog-friendly walking paths with jaw-dropping views.2. Sedona, Arizona: Known for its red rock formations and spiritual energy, Sedona is a paradise for hikers and their dogs. The Fay Canyon Trail and Red Rock Crossing are popular spots where your pup can join in on the adventure.3. Monument Valley, Utah/Arizona: This iconic landscape, with its towering sandstone buttes, is a symbol of the American West. While dogs aren’t allowed on the main loop road, you can still enjoy the views from designated areas and nearby trails.4. Zion National Park, Utah: While most of Zion’s trails are off-limits to dogs, the Pa’rus Trail offers a scenic walk along the Virgin River, perfect for a leisurely stroll with your pup.5. White Sands National Park, New Mexico: This surreal landscape of gleaming white gypsum dunes is a unique destination for you and your dog. Leashed pets are welcome to explore the dunes, making for a one-of-a-kind adventure. To make the most of your Southwest road trip, it’s important to plan ahead and prioritize your dog’s needs. Here are a few tips to ensure a smooth journey: Pack the Essentials: Bring plenty of water, food, and treats for your dog, as well as a collapsible bowl for easy hydration on the go. Don’t forget waste bags, a leash, and a first-aid kit for emergencies. Plan for Breaks: Long drives can be tough on your dog, so schedule regular stops to let them stretch their legs and relieve themselves. Check Pet Policies: Before visiting national parks or other attractions, verify their pet policies to avoid any surprises. Invest in Quality Gear: A durable and comfortable car seat like the 4Knines dog car seat will make the journey safer and more enjoyable for both you and your pup. A road trip through the American Southwest is an unforgettable adventure, and sharing it with your dog makes it even more special. From hiking through red rock canyons to marveling at iconic landmarks, the region offers endless opportunities for exploration and bonding. By equipping your car with the 4Knines Seat Cover, you can protect your vehicle and ensure your pup’s safety and comfort throughout the journey. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to create lasting memories with your furry co-pilot in the stunning landscapes of the Southwest. Photo by Patrick Hendry on Unsplash Author: Russell Schindler Russell lives in New Mexico with his girlfriend and their adventure-obsessed 3-year-old Portuguese Water Dog, Claude.
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February 2025 Spotlight: Jack Jack's Pack Street Dog Rescue
February 2025 Spotlight Jack Jack's Pack Street Dog Rescue Jack Jack's Pack Street Dog Rescue was founded by Sasha and her husband, Chas, after experiencing the heartbreak of tragedy. In October 2021, their beloved dog Jack-Jack, a 17-year-old chihuahua with dementia, slipped out of their home when the wind blew their front door open. As they tirelessly searched for him, they discovered other lost and abandoned dogs in desperate need—so many suffering souls in rough shape who just needed a chance at a better life. When owners couldn’t be found, Sasha and Chas opened their hearts and home to these dogs, creating what became Jack Jack’s Pack. Though Jack-Jack was never found, his spirit inspired Sasha, Chas, and their family to help more and more vulnerable dogs who had nowhere else to go. Jack-Jack’s legacy lives on through the rescue, giving countless pups a chance at the happy life they deserve. Jack Jack's Pack is a true grassroots street dog rescue based in Pflugerville, TX. Their mission is threefold: to reunite lost pets with their owners, to rescue street dogs and place them in loving forever homes, and to rehabilitate injured and sick dogs throughout Central Texas. Since Jack-Jack went missing, Sasha, Chas, and their team have saved more than 912 dogs! Their rescue network now includes over 100 fosters, many caring for animals with significant medical needs. Day and night, often in dangerous situations, they respond to calls near major highways, dog-fighting rings, and properties where dogs have been abandoned, neglected, shot, or abused. They work tirelessly to find fosters, raise funds, and keep the rescue running, relying entirely on donations and fundraising. Jack Jack’s Pack takes in dogs in the most desperate situations—those many others turn away. Many are severely injured or neglected. Their standards of care are as high as they would want for their own pets, ensuring every dog receives a thorough medical evaluation, a loving foster home or a place in their own home, proper care, socialization, and enrichment while they await their forever families. They spare no expense in providing for these dogs—covering vaccinations, spaying and neutering, hospital stays, surgeries, blood transfusions, hyperbaric treatments, and more. Fundraising happens on the go—through community platforms, direct calls to their trusted veterinarians, wish lists, events, auctions, and raffles. Jack Jack’s Pack is a family rescue, and everyone helps! The work is challenging and often emotional, but their commitment is unwavering. They lead by example, sharing the message that every animal deserves a chance at a happy life. AND THEY HAVE A DREAM: To build Jack Jack’s Safe Haven—a sanctuary for all the dogs in need across Central Texas. Until then, they continue their mission wherever they’re needed, rescuing dogs on the run or frozen in fear—in junkyards, woods, fields, city spaces, back roads, and highway medians, no matter the weather. Jack Jack’s Pack Street Dog Rescue saves dogs who need hope, healing, and the chance to live a life they can love. Every day, they make miracles happen. Please read about the precious lives they save. 4Knines is proud to highlight Jack Jack’s Pack Street Dog Rescue as part of our monthly charity spotlight. Each month, we feature a worthy organization making a difference in the lives of animals, and Jack Jack’s Pack is doing extraordinary work! We hope you’ll join us in supporting Sasha, Chas, and their dedicated team of volunteers by donating to their mission. Together, we can help rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs in need. Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
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January 2025 Spotlight: Missouri Pitbull Rescue
January 2025 Spotlight Missouri Pitbull Rescue Missouri Pitbull Rescue (MPR) was founded in 1998 and has since become a beacon of hope for bully breed dogs in need in the Kansas City area. Over the years, the rescue has grown significantly and is now supported by more than 70 active volunteers, all driven by a deep love for the breed and a commitment to changing the narrative surrounding pitbulls and other bully breeds. MPR’s mission goes beyond simply rescuing dogs; it’s about providing education, advocacy, and rehabilitation for these misunderstood and often stigmatized dogs. The organization is known for its patient, compassionate approach to matching dogs with their forever homes, ensuring each adoption is a successful and lasting one. The co-founder of Missouri Pitbull Rescue holds a canine science certification and has more than 30 years of experience working with bully breeds which has played a pivotal role in the rescue’s success. Her expertise, combined with the hard work and dedication of the volunteer team, allows MPR to handle a wide range of needs. Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and conditions—some may just need basic training, while others may require medical attention or emotional rehabilitation. Regardless of the challenges, MPR’s volunteers persevere, always striving to provide the best care possible. One of the volunteers’ favorite success stories is Bobo. This adorable (and large) puppy was found wandering the streets as a puppy. He was adopted but was returned to MPR after several years due to extreme anxiety. Bobo’s level of anxiety and size called for special care. When there were firework celebrations nearby, volunteers often spent the night at the shelter just to help calm his anxiety. Bobo was taken to swimming lessons as part of the regimen to help his anxiety. Everyone at MPR loved him, but they so wanted him to have his own home. After three years, Bobo found his furever home with a family who was educated in how to manage his anxiety…and he is living his best life. Bobo is missed by all of the MR volunteers, but he is where he was always meant to be. Missouri Pitbull Rescue’s success is a testament to the strength of its volunteer community. With diverse backgrounds, skills, and perspectives, the volunteers have formed a close-knit family united by their shared goal: to save as many dogs as possible. Their hard work, passion, and dedication create a nurturing environment where each dog is given the opportunity to thrive. Ultimately, Missouri Pitbull Rescue is more than just a shelter—it's a place of healing and transformation, for both the dogs and the people who volunteer. The dogs may leave pawprints on the hearts of the volunteers, but the volunteers, in turn, leave hope behind—for a better tomorrow and a brighter future for each dog they save. Since Day 1, 4Knines has supported the work of nonprofit animal advocacy groups, and this month, we are proud to shine a light on the mission of Missouri Pitbull Rescue. We encourage our followers to learn more about this amazing rescue and to join us in supporting their efforts. There are so many ways to help! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
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December 2024 Spotlight: Lost Paws Animal Rescue
December 2024 Spotlight Lost Paws Animal Rescue Based out of Bridgewater, NJ, Lost Paws Animal Rescue, is an all-volunteer organization who places rescued dogs and cats into the homes of volunteer foster pet parents. This rescue model provides animals with a loving, home-like setting versus time spent in a municipal shelter. Once the rescued dogs and cats are in a safe foster care environment, an application process is conducted to find perfect furever homes. Spay and neuter procedures, vaccinations, and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) tests are included in adoption fees. Adoption events are held most weekends with times and locations posted on the Lost Paws Animal Rescue Facebook page. Lost Paws Animal Rescue rescues animals from various situations, such as abuse, neglect, puppy mills, and dogs formerly used for breeding. Most rescues originate from high-kill animal shelters, where dogs and cats are often on a list awaiting euthanasia to create room in overcrowded shelters. Thanks to the efforts of Lost Paws Animal Rescue, animals are given a second chance at finding a loving home. The volunteers at Lost Paws Animal Rescue are committed to help stop animal abuse and irresponsible breeding while promoting the importance of spaying and neutering animals. Lost Paws Animal Rescue’s mission is: To rescue animals from situations that are abusive, endangering and/or neglectful, such as kill shelters where overcrowding leads to euthanasia of wonderful companion animals To increase the quality of life for stray, unwanted, and homeless animals by caring for them and seeking suitable homes To inform the public of these situations in order to put a stop to animal abuse and irresponsible breeding To provide foster homes for these animals To provide necessary veterinary care To promote the importance of spaying/neutering and provide same as part of the adoption process To place rescued animals into permanent adoptive homes To continue the important work helping homeless animals, donations are always needed. Adoption fees barely cover the cost. For foster parents, the cost of time, housing, medical care, food, and other supplies are a labor of love which often comes from their own pockets. Every penny makes a difference, and monetary donations will go a long way to help Lost Paws Animal Rescue continue their mission. We hope you will join 4Knines in supporting this hard-working nonprofit financially, or if you live in the Bridgewater area, by applying to be a volunteer or foster parent. Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
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November 2024 Spotlight: Paws for Life Utah
November 2024 Spotlight Paws for Life Utah Paws for Life Utah (PFLU) has a vision to end animal homelessness and euthanasia. Their mission is to rescue and find loving homes for shelter pets. Cathy Boruch founded Paws for Life Utah in 2012. Cathy is a lifelong advocate of animal rescue who has worked with the challenges of large scale metropolitan areas as well as growing rural communities with critical needs for animal rescue and rehabilitation. Volunteers are the pulse of Paws for Life Utah with a shared mission to save the most vulnerable animals and enrich the lives of pets and people. PFLU volunteers encourage partnerships between rescue groups to create a “no kill” nation. Since its inception, PFLU has helped save the lives of over 16,000 animals! Rango is one example of a successful partnership. On a Sunday in September 2023, PFLU was contacted by a partner rescue with a young Labrador Retriever mix who was dying. The shelter, like most shelters, sadly did not have the capability to care for the sick dog. Paws for Life Utah was able to accept the dog, who was later named Rango, into their program. After being diagnosed with pneumonia and kennel cough, Rango received the emergency medical care he needed and then lived in a foster home for an additional 15 days until he was no longer contagious to other dogs. Rango is now completely healthy and is living his very best life with board member Heidi who also happens to be the 4Knines customer who nominated Paws for Life Utah for a 4Knines Monthly Spotlight feature! Paws for Life Utah also engages in community partnerships with local, law-enforcement, municipal shelters, and with educational institutions to bring awareness to the needs for pets and shelters. From obedience training for adopted dogs to assisting the public in Trap Neuter release for feral cats, they work together to find solutions to reduce the number of homeless pets in their community and beyond. In addition, PFLU spays, neuters, immunizes, microchips, and when needed, provides medical care for every animal in their care. 4Knines loves to shine a light on the nonprofit organizations nominated by our customers. We are honored to support the mission of Paws for Life Utah and hope you will consider making a donation as well. If you happen to live in Utah, PFLU is always in need of volunteers and fosters. Detailed information can be found at pflu.org. Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
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October 2024 Spotlight: Husky Education and Rescue Team
October 2024 Spotlight Husky Education and Rescue Team The Siberian Husky has become the third most popular dog among shelter pets in the US. They are also one of the harder breeds to own, and due to their beautiful appearance, Huskies often wind up in the hands of uneducated and inexperienced owners. Husky Education And Rescue Team is a 501c3 animal welfare organization who specializes in the Siberian Husky breed. Founded in 2017, H-E-A-R-T rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes Siberian Huskies along the east coast states. Their focus is rescuing Huskies from euthanasia in kill shelters. Over 1200 Huskies later, the organization prides themselves on their successful placement rate crediting the time they take to educate potential adopters and the public about the breed. H-E-A-R-T’s website provides a wealth of information on the breed and encourages potential owners to educate themselves before getting a Husky. The rescue often says the first key to successful Husky ownership is to have a great sense of humor. This breed will keep you laughing with their antics, but you have to embrace those larger than life personalities. It’s very important to remember a Husky isn’t just a pair of beautiful blue eyes, but a living, breathing, feeling, lifetime commitment. H-E-A-R-T is primarily a foster based rescue with a small rescue center in Maryland and a sanctuary in North Carolina. Their program is designed to handle 40 dogs at a given time and their rescue spots stay full year round. H-E-A-R-T takes on special cases such as medical issues, behavioral issues, seniors and bonded pairs in addition to highly adoptable Huskies. Additionally, H-E-A-R-T runs a breed specific training program known as HELP (Harmonious Environment and Learning Principles). Huskies are intelligent, independent and stubborn. Training this breed of dogs is not like training other breeds. Their HELP program is designed to support struggling owners with access to resources and expertise to prevent them from surrendering their Husky to shelters. Husky Education And Rescue Team runs solely on volunteer efforts and is funded by adoption fees and donations. 4Knines learned about H-E-A-R-T from a customer who is also a supporter of the non-profit. We are proud to shine a light on the work of H-E-A-R-T by making a donation to support their mission and hope you will consider a donation as well! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
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The Science Behind Why Dogs Stare At Us
The Science Behind Why Dogs Stare At Us By Melisa Monroe Have you ever looked up to someone...like really really looked up to them? Do you wonder if anyone looks up to you with similar adoration? If you own a dog, you're probably used to being looked up to literally and metaphorically. But why do our dogs stare at us with such admiration? Though we've done many things to deserve it, is there more to this longing gaze? Every dog owner is familiar with the eyes of their fluffs constantly staring at them. Picture yourself walking around your living room, wondering where to put the odd-looking souvenir your sister-in-law gifted you from Waikiki. Then, you notice your dog's eyes following you from one side to the other with complete and utter admiration. Love it or hate it, there may be more to this perpetual staring contest than meets the eye. Canine psychologists have recently discovered a few things that make our dogs tick. How dogs became our best friends Our dog's gaze tells a profound story of the evolution of our age-old relationship with them. As humans transitioned from nomad hunter-gatherers to sedentary farmers, settling into the first precarious villages, surrounding groups of wolves would gather around. Being quite messy herds of people as we are today, we would leave scraps of food around that wolves would, in turn, scavenge. At first, wolves were naturally timid around human settlers, but this caused them to waste energy running away every time they would see a human. Confident, less fearful wolves had better chances at survival as they had better access to human leftovers. A new group of wolves began evolving by natural selection: smaller wolves who required less food and were much more tolerant to humans. A stare worth a thousand words In the animal world, a stare is worth a thousand words. A gaze is a sign of threat for most animals, such as wolves. But, as dogs have evolved by our side, becoming our best friends, their stare has become a sophisticated means of interspecies communication. In the earliest days of the human-dog partnership, communication was a manner of survival. As dogs increasingly relied on us for their fundamental canine needs, they learned to observe and interpret our behaviors. Dogs crave our acceptance Being able to distinguish our expressions, a possible reason why they gaze at us is that they are trying to figure out how to behave to please us best. Dogs want to fit in around us. They crave acceptance and their owners are the leaders of the pack. "Should I be cute now? Should I be quiet? Should I be excited?" could be thoughts going through our dog's minds as they gaze at us. The moments they are happiest are when they're by our sides, so our dogs want to prolong them as much as they can by staying on their best behavior (good boys and girls!). Dogs stare at us looking for cues Dogs like knowing what’s happening and often wait for the significant events that make up their day (food time, playtime, walks). Our faces are their primary source of information about when those things will happen. Columbian Professor of canine cognition Alexandra Horowitz has delved deeply into this subject manner, noting that we’re in control of when they eat, when they defecate, and when they can “go outside and sniff the world around them”. But, she says, this goes even deeper, as it’s linked to a bond of intimacy that has developed between our furry companions and us. Dogs are trying to figure us out A recent study published in 2015 by Corsin A. Muller and his colleagues at the University of Veterinary Medicine (Vienna) recently revealed that dogs do, indeed, distinguish our emotions. This study aimed at determining if dogs could tell the difference between a happy and an angry face simply from the information they received from an owner's face. Their findings were astonishing—dogs do actually get us. Dogs have so fine-tuned their ability to read into us that they can distinguish their owner's expressions even by looking at images. Another interesting study was done where pet dogs were shown images of happy and angry faces on a computer screen. They would get a treat when they would approach and nose-touch an image on the screen. Researchers found that when seeing an angry face, the dogs would be reluctant to approach the image, despite the promised treat. Our dogs crave our intimacy Through their careful study of our behavior, dogs have discovered that humans gaze at each other as a sign of intimacy and friendliness. What our dogs want the most in the world is to be a part of our families. So, they imitate this behavior to be a part of the clan (aww). Dogs love us People often wonder if their dogs love them or are simply in it for the food. However, in a recent study done in 2022, scientists have proved that dogs do, in fact, love us. The study was published by Peer J Life and Environment and aimed at discovering if dogs would prefer their owners to food. In this study, after the dog's owner arrived home, a bowl of food was placed in a small circle about 2 meters from the door, as the owner stood at another circle that was 2 meters from the door at an opposite angle. The dogs chose their owner eight out of 10 times! Conclusion When we feel nobody gets us like our dogs, it's because it's likely to be true: our dogs can recognize our emotions just as our expressions begin to break into our faces. When your dog approaches you and places their paw on your lap after you've had a after you've had a tough day at work, their gesture is sincere, and your well-being is essential to them.
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September 2024 Spotlight: Heart & Soul Dog Rescue
September 2024 Spotlight Heart & Soul Dog Rescue Heart & Soul Dog Rescue's mission is to rescue dogs from New Jersey's overcrowded shelters. Jacky, founder and president of Heart & Soul Dog Rescue, began volunteering at a high-kill, inner city shelter in 2018, but prior to this, she had been saving dogs off the streets for 15 years. Shortly after she began volunteering, and after the devastating loss of her second pitbull, Jacky adopted her first rescued dog. The new dog was chaotic, and Jacky had no clue how to handle her. So she enrolled in classes to become a trainer and decided to make it her mission to rescue dogs who were often overlooked because of behavioral issues typically associated with kennel stress. After working with many rescues throughout the years, Jacky realized it was her time to start her own nonprofit. So in 2023, Heart & Soul Dog Rescue was born. Jacky put together an amazing team including board members, Megan and Colleen, and volunteers, Melanie, Jonathan, Darlene, and Jordan. Utilizing their combined talents, Heart & Soul Dog Rescue has grown quickly, and in just over one year, the team has rescued 17 dogs and placed them in amazing new homes. Each Heart & Soul Dog Rescue success story is unique and may involve a multitude of approaches to include rehabilitation, socialization, training, and advocating for the underdog. Red is one such story. After living in a shelter for 2.5 years, Red was doomed for euthanasia through no fault of his own. Thankfully, Heart & Soul Dog Rescue was able to secure a board and trainer for Red and ultimately placed him with the most amazing adopter. Red has been such a pleasure since the day he was rescued and he is now living his very best life which is more than anyone dreamed could have happened. Another amazing success story is Ruger, who was rescued from a shelter in March 2024. Ruger arrived with two embedded metal wires in his neck and was covered in maggots. He had been so mistreated, Jacky’s team thought he would never trust a human again, but they had a great feeling about Ruger, so they took a chance on him. Ruger was able to be rehabilitated, learned to trust again, and is currently living in a foster-to-adopt home. These are just two incredible Heart & Soul Dog Rescue success stories - there are many more stories and the team will continue doing their best to always watch out for the overlooked and misunderstood underdogs. Most people tend to walk past the shelter dogs who are going crazy in their kennels, but Heart & Soul Dog Rescue gravitates toward these dogs because they recognize and understand the dogs are screaming for help. With a trainer on their board, Heart & Soul Dog Rescue is able to rehabilitate dogs with behavioral issues and get ready for adoption. After adoptions are complete, Heart & Soul Dog Rescue continues to provide the adoptive family with training. In addition, this amazing non-profit offers FREE boarding for all adopted dogs when their new families go on vacation (ample advance notice is required for booking)!. All rescued dogs come fully vaccinated, spayed/neutered, and trained. Heart & Soul Dog Rescue is a 501c3 non-profit animal organization that relies on donations from supporters to continue providing services to these amazing dogs. No contribution is too small! 4Knines also likes to support the underdog, and we are delighted to help raise awareness for Heart & Soul Dog Rescue as they continue to grow! We hope you will consider donating to Heart & Soul Dog Rescue so Jacky and her team can keep doing the hard work of rescuing forgotten dogs who deserve a new beginning. Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
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Adventuring with Dogs: 5,000 Miles, 2 Dogs and 1 4Knines Dog Hammock
Adventuring with Dogs: 5,000 Miles, 2 Dogs and 1 4Knines Dog Hammock By Amber Drake This is a story about a summer adventure that included 2 humans, 2 dogs, 9 states and 4Knines. We emBARKED on our journey in far west Texas, hitting the road to visit family and enjoy the Pacific Northwest. To get ready for the trip, we put our truck in “Dog Mode” which includes folding up the rear seats and putting our homemade dog platform in so the dogs have a stable, flat spot for their travels. Next is the 4Knines Floor Hammock® for Crew Cab Trucks. We have tried many dog hammocks over the years and this one is by far the highest quality and only one that fits in a crew cab truck with the seats folded up! Next we squish 2 large size dog beds into the rear cab of the truck, now it’s ready for the dogs! We loaded up the human accessories and other dog accessories in the bed of the truck, protected from the weather by a tonneau cover for our journey. You don’t want wet dog food when you arrive at your destination! For our trip planning, we try to stop every 3 or so hours to let the dogs (and humans) stretch their legs. For this trip, we used an off-road navigation app to help us find spots off the beaten path where we could safely let our dogs run and play fetch with their ball. This included many forest service roads in New Mexico, Utah, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, Montana and Colorado on our long road trip that spanned the course of a few months. We spent time with family and our dogs enjoyed lounging in the lush green grass of the Seattle area that we do not have in West Texas! They also got to play on a beach and splash in the ocean for the first time… super glad our dog hammock kept the sand and water off our truck seats! If you take your dog to the beach, make sure you have plenty of towels, but also know that no matter how hard you try, they will still be wet when you load them into the car. Our trip also involved romping in the snow and mud in the mountains of Oregon in June. We didn’t expect snow in June, so we did not have towels, but luckily, we did have our dog hammock that saved our seats and floor. In addition to snow, we also found plenty of dust in the mountains near Bend, OR. The dust is very fine, like baby powder and seems to get into every nook and cranny of EVERYTHING! We discovered having a Swiffer duster around helped with some of the dust that settled on the dashboard and every other crevice of the vehicle but didn’t have to worry too much about the back seat that was protected by the hammock. We were also lucky enough to get to try kayaking in Washington state where the dogs briefly tried to swim along side the kayak, so one of us had to hang out on shore to keep them entertained while the other paddled around in the lake. Now back home, settling in to our regular routines, we look back at the adventures that we had and are ready to rest up for the next adventure when the opportunity arises. A few tips we learned along the way: Always have towels with you Bring a 4Knines dog hammock — it will save your sanity AND your seats! If your dog loves balls, always bring a spare in case one gets lost A water jug with a spout makes it easy to get water for the dogs and for hand washing About The Author Amber Drake is a dog mom, graphic designer and outdoor enthusiast!
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August 2024 Spotlight: True Love Rescue
August 2024 Spotlight True Love Rescue True Love Rescue, based in Lodi California, is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to the rescue of Golden Retrievers. Their mission is to rescue displaced, abused, abandoned, or neglected dogs and find them a well-deserved forever loving home. True Love Rescue places over 200 dogs a year and is committed to meeting the needs of the Golden Retriever breed both locally and internationally. True Love Rescue was founded by Board President Jill Morgan in 2012 when she adopted a Golden (Harley) through a partnership with a rescue in Taiwan. Harley was found in a landfill and was in poor condition weighing only 35 pounds. Harley became the inspiration for True Love Rescue, and although he recently passed, his legacy continues. Through continued partnerships with rescue groups in Taiwan, True Love Rescue supports the rescue of large-breed stray dogs - many of whom are abandoned family pets forced to live on the streets and are in desperate need of love and care. There are thousands of stray dogs living in the island nation. Finding new homes for strays is difficult and shelters are beyond capacity, so True Love Rescue flies rescued dogs to Northern California where many wonderful families await their arrival. The True Love Rescue team has grown over the years and is made up of a network of volunteers around California, Arizona, and Nevada. Their experienced volunteers are able to care for puppies, adults, seniors and special needs dogs. All rescued dogs are given a thorough physical exam that includes vaccinations, spay/neuter (age dependent), microchipping, and parasite testing/treatment. During the pandemic, many backyard puppy mills started popping up as the demand for puppies increased. True Love Rescue has been able to bring many of these breeding adults and puppies into their rescue and place them in homes where they never have to breed again. True Love Rescue is committed to shutting down irresponsible breeders and to give overbred dogs and their puppies a new lease on life. 4Knines is proud to shine a light on the tireless efforts of True Love Rescue’s volunteers. Please join us in supporting this nonprofit by making a donation or contributing to their upcoming Woof, Wag, and Wine fundraiser in Lodi, California. Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Help 4Knines Give Back Does your local animal advocacy group deserve recognition and support? We invite you to nominate them to be our next Spotlight. Fill out the form at the button below and our dedicated team will reach out. Let's join forces to make a positive impact! Spotlight Nomination Form Learn How 4Knines Gives Back ➜
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