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| The Goodest Issue |
Sunday, October 13, 2024
Miracle in the Storm: Dog Rescued from 20 Feet Up After Hurricane Floodwaters
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Athena: The Dog Carried Away By Hurricane Floodwaters Found Stranded In Tree |
During the devastation of Hurricane Helene in Tennessee, rescuers from the Kingsport Fire Department made a miraculous discovery: a dog named Athena stranded 20 feet high in a tree. Athena, swept away by floodwaters and carried on debris, had been left stranded as the waters receded. Thanks to the quick thinking and efforts of the rescue team, Athena was safely brought down using a ladder. This incredible story serves as a reminder of the heroism and compassion that rescue teams show in the face of natural disasters.
More info:
- Read the full story on iHeartDogs.
- Learn about pet preparedness during natural disasters at the ASPCA.
Saturday, October 12, 2024
Why Mixed Breeds Are Leading the Pack: The Rising Popularity of Mixed Dogs in 2024
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| Three Happy Mixed Breed Puppers |
In 2024, pet parents are increasingly choosing mixed breed dogs over traditional purebreds, driven by a desire for unique personalities, resilience, and the knowledge that these dogs often combine the best traits from various breeds. According to a recent report by Rover, mixed breeds are now the most popular dogs in America, with many pet owners prioritizing loyalty, playfulness, and adaptability over pedigree.
Mixed breed dogs, often found in shelters or rescue organizations, offer diverse genetic backgrounds, which may lead to fewer inherited health problems compared to some purebred dogs. Additionally, their distinct looks and personalities allow pet owners to form deeper connections with their furry companions. As the trend of adopting for personality traits over appearance grows, more families are discovering the joy of welcoming a mixed breed into their home.
The Benefits of Mixed Breeds:
- Unique Personalities: Each mixed breed dog has a one-of-a-kind combination of traits, making them stand out in their behavior and appearance. Their varied genetic heritage often results in dogs with balanced temperaments, making them ideal family pets.
- Health Advantages: Mixed breeds are sometimes considered healthier due to their diverse genetic backgrounds, which may reduce the likelihood of inherited diseases common in purebreds.
- Adopt, Don’t Shop: The growing popularity of mixed breeds aligns with the movement to adopt dogs from shelters, where mixed breeds often make up the majority of dogs looking for a loving home. Many pet owners feel a sense of fulfillment knowing they've given a home to a rescue dog.
Why Mixed Breeds Are In Demand:
A recent survey of pet parents revealed that 61% chose their dog based on personality traits such as friendliness, playfulness, and intelligence rather than breed or appearance (iHeartDogs, Rover). Mixed breeds are often more adaptable and have less predisposition to specific behavioral traits, giving pet parents the flexibility to match their dog’s personality to their lifestyle.
You can find out more here:
Smoky the War Hero: How a Tiny Yorkshire Terrier Saved Lives During WWII
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| Smoky in a helmet. |
During the chaos of World War II, a four-pound Yorkshire Terrier named Smoky became an unlikely hero, winning the hearts of soldiers and saving lives. Discovered in a foxhole in the New Guinea jungle in 1944, Smoky quickly became a symbol of resilience and courage. Purchased by Corporal William A. Wynne, Smoky would go on to perform incredible feats, including the mission that cemented her legacy as a war hero.
One of Smoky’s most remarkable accomplishments came during the Allied campaign in the Philippines. The Signal Corps needed to run a telegraph wire through a 70-foot-long pipe under an airstrip. The task would normally require digging up the airstrip, putting soldiers and aircraft at risk. But Smoky was sent through the narrow pipe, dragging the wire behind her, saving countless lives by keeping the airfield operational and the men safe from enemy bombings.
Beyond her heroism on the battlefield, Smoky brought comfort to wounded soldiers in hospitals, becoming the world’s first known therapy dog. Her playful spirit lifted the morale of troops from Australia to Korea. After the war, she became a national sensation, performing her impressive tricks on live TV and inspiring millions with her story.
Today, Smoky's bravery is remembered through statues and memorials, including a bronze statue of Smoky sitting in a helmet at the Cleveland Metroparks, where she was buried after her passing in 1957.
Read more about Smoky’s incredible life and legacy at these sources:
Friday, October 11, 2024
From Neglect to Heroism: Harper, the 2024 ASPCA Dog of the Year
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| Harper, ASPCA's Dog of the Year! |
Harper, a Black Labrador mix, went from a life of neglect to becoming a disaster search dog, earning her the ASPCA 2024 Dog of the Year award. Rescued from a hoarding situation, she was trained by the Search Dog Foundation and now helps first responders find survivors in disaster zones. Harper's story is one of resilience and dedication, as she worked through Hurricane Ian and the Lahaina wildfire, proving the transformative power of rescue dogs.
Read more about Harper's inspiring journey!
Harper’s Heroic Journey: From Rescue to Saving Lives
In 2020, Harper was rescued from a neglectful hoarding case and taken to the Humane Society of the Black Hills. Out of 22 rescued dogs, Harper stood out and was chosen for a pilot program with the Search Dog Foundation (SDF). Her training was rigorous, preparing her to work alongside firefighters and other first responders as a disaster search dog.
By 2022, Harper achieved FEMA certification, a prestigious accomplishment that signaled she was ready for real-world missions. Paired with firefighter Edward Ruiz, the two became an unstoppable team. Their deployments included critical operations during Hurricane Ian and the devastating Lahaina wildfire. Harper’s skills helped bring closure to families and saved countless lives, showcasing the incredible abilities of disaster search canines.
Her recognition as the ASPCA 2024 Dog of the Year honors this tireless work. Harper is an example of the strength and potential hidden in rescue dogs, proving that, with the right care and training, they can go from neglected to extraordinary.
Why Harper's Story Matters
Harper's story serves as a reminder of the impact of rescue dogs and the life-changing work they can do. Her transformation from a neglected dog to a highly skilled disaster search canine shows that every dog deserves a second chance. Harper’s journey is not just about her accomplishments but about the thousands of rescue dogs who have the potential to contribute to society in meaningful ways.
By highlighting Harper’s journey, we celebrate the resilience of animals and the importance of giving them a chance to thrive. Harper embodies the dedication, intelligence, and loyalty of rescue dogs, and her story will continue to inspire those who work with and adopt animals.
How You Can Help
- Adopt, Don’t Shop: Many dogs like Harper are waiting in shelters for a chance at a better life.
- Support Rescue Foundations: Organizations like the Search Dog Foundation work tirelessly to train dogs for life-saving missions.
- Spread the Word: Share Harper’s story with others to raise awareness of the impact rescue dogs can make.
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| This is Trooper |
Dog found tied to pole in Florida during Hurricane Milton has a fitting new name, rescue facility says
Read more at wfla.com.
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