One man and his 140 dogs

One man and his 140 dogs

Li Zongwen is a former chef from Wuhan and loves dogs so much he has taken in 140 stray dogs from the outskirts of the city. The 59-year-old man began adopting strays from the streets of Wuhan two years ago. He gives them shelter in his own home but admits he couldn't afford to feed all of them, without donations from other local animal lovers. He receives donations from other dog lovers in the area to feed the animals. And he's got a lot of mouths to feed.

He prepares a big bowl of dog chow using a garden shovel, and eats his own meals in their company.

Walkies must be a nightmare and dealing with the poop almost unimaginable because Li takes care of over 140 of the animals in his home in China.

Food and rent for the house costs 5000 yuan (about £480) each month, which is covered by people donating money to Mr Li.

The dogs have been living with him in his house since 2009 and Mr Li even eats his dinner surrounded by his canine friends.

Pet in all its Beauty..

One We can Trust..

Love Them , They Will Love you...

“Such short little lives our pets have to spend with us, and they spend most of it waiting for us to come home each day. 

It is amazing how much love and laughter they bring into our lives and even how much closer we become with each other because of them.” 

― John Grogan, Marley and Me: Life and Love With the World's Worst Dog

Various Skin Problems in Dogs.

Dog Skin Problems
The sound of a dog constantly scratching or licking can be as irritating as nails on a chalkboard. But don’t blame your pooch for these bad habits -- a skin condition is probably the culprit. Possible causes range from parasites to allergies to underlying illness. WebMD has compiled images of some of the most common canine skin problems.

Allergic Dermatitis
Dogs can have allergic reactions to grooming products, food, and environmental irritants, such as pollen or insect bites. A dog with allergies may scratch relentlessly, and a peek at the skin often reveals an ugly rash. Corticosteroids can help with itchy rashes, but the most effective treatment is to identify and avoid exposure to the allergens.

Yeast Infection
If your dog can't seem to stop scratching an ear or licking her toes, ask your veterinarian to check for a yeast infection. Symptoms include irritated, itchy, or discolored skin. The infection usually strikes the paws or ears, where yeast has a cozy space to grow. Yeast infections are easy to diagnose and often respond well to a topical cream. In some cases, your veterinarian may prescribe oral drugs or medicated baths.

Folliculitis
Superficial bacterial folliculitis is an infection that causes sores, bumps, and scabs on the skin. These skin abnormalities are easier to see in shorthaired dogs. In longhaired dogs, the most obvious symptoms may be a dull coat and shedding with scaly skin underneath. Folliculitis often occurs in conjunction with other skin problems, such as mange, allergies, or injury. Treatment may include oral antibiotics and antibacterial ointments or shampoos.

Impetigo
Another type of bacterial infection, impetigo is most common in puppies. It causes pus-filled blisters that may break and crust over. The blisters usually develop on the hairless portion of the abdomen. Impetigo is rarely serious and can be treated with a topical solution. In a small number of cases, the infection may spread or persist.

Seborrhea
Seborrhea causes a dog's skin to become greasy and develop scales (dandruff). In some cases, it's a genetic disease that begins when a dog is young and lasts a lifetime. But most dogs with seborrhea develop the scaling as a complication of another medical problem, such as allergies or hormonal abnormalities. In these cases, it is vital to treat the underlying cause so symptoms do not recur.

Ringworm
Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm, but by a fungus. The term "ring" comes from the circular patches that can form anywhere, but are often found on a dog's head, paws, ears, and forelegs. Inflammation, scaly patches, and hair loss often surround the lesions. Puppies less than a year old are the most susceptible, and the infection can spread quickly between dogs in a kennel or to pet owners at home. Various anti-fungal treatments are available.

Shedding and Hair Loss (Alopecia)
Anyone who shares their home with dogs knows that they shed. How much shedding is normal depends on breed, time of year, and environment. But sometimes stress, poor nutrition, or illness can cause a dog to lose more hair than usual. If abnormal or excessive shedding persists for more than a week, or you notice patches of missing fur, check with your veterinarian.

Mange (Mites)
Mange is a skin disorder caused by tiny parasites called mites. Sarcoptic mange, also known as canine scabies, spreads easily among dogs and can also be transmitted to people, but the parasites don't survive on humans. The symptoms are intense itching, red skin, sores, and hair loss. A dog's ears, face and legs are most commonly affected. Demodectic mange can cause bald spots, scabbing, and sores, but it is not contagious between animals or people. Treatment depends on the type of mange.

Fleas
Fleas are the bane of any pet owner. You may not see the tiny insects themselves, but flea droppings or eggs are usually visible in a dog's coat. Other symptoms include excessive licking or scratching, scabs, and hot spots. Severe flea infestations can cause blood loss and anemia, and even expose your dog to other parasites, such as tapeworms. Treatment may include a topical and/or oral flea killer and a thorough cleaning of the pet's home and yard.

Ticks
Ticks, like fleas, are external parasites that feed on the blood of their hosts. You can spot a tick feeding on your dog with the naked eye. To properly remove a tick, grasp the tick with tweezers close to the dog’s skin, and gently pull it straight out. Twisting or pulling too hard may cause the head to remain lodged in your dog’s skin, which can lead to infection. Place the tick in a jar with some alcohol for a couple of days and dispose of it once it is dead. In addition to causing blood loss and anemia, ticks can transmit Lyme disease and other potentially serious bacterial infections. If you live in an area where ticks are common, talk to your veterinarian about tick control products.

Color or Texture Changes
Changes in a dog's skin color or coat texture can be a warning sign of several common metabolic or hormone problems. Be sure to ask your veterinarian about any significant changes to your dog’s coat.

Dry, Flaky Skin
Dry, flaky skin can be a red flag for a number of problems. It's a common symptom of allergies, mange, and other skin diseases. But most often, dry or flaky skin is nothing serious. Like people, some dogs simply get dry skin in the winter. If this seems to cause your pet discomfort, consult your veterinarian.

Acral Lick Granuloma
Also called acral lick dermatitis, this is a frustrating skin condition caused by compulsive, relentless licking of a single area -- most often on the front of the lower leg. The area is unable to heal, and the resulting pain and itching can lead the dog to keep licking the same spot. Treatment includes discouraging the dog from licking, either by using a bad-tasting topical solution or an Elizabethan collar.

Skin Tumors
If you notice a hard lump on your dog's skin, point it out to your vet as soon as possible. Dogs can develop cancerous tumors in their skin. The only way to confirm a diagnosis of cancer is to biopsy the tumor. If the lump is small enough, your veterinarian may recommend removing it entirely. This can yield a diagnosis and treatment with a single procedure. For tumors that have not spread, this may be the only treatment needed.

Hot Spots
Hot spots, also called acute moist dermatitis, are small areas that appear red, irritated, and inflamed. They are most commonly found on a dog's head, hips, or chest, and often feel hot to the touch. Hot spots can result from a wide range of conditions, including infections, allergies, insect bites, or excessive licking and chewing. Treatment consists of cleansing the hot spot and addressing the underlying condition.

Immune Disorders
In rare cases, skin lesions or infections that won’t heal can indicate an immune disorder in your dog. One of the best known is lupus, a disease that affects dogs and people. Lupus is an autoimmune disorder, meaning the body’s immune system attacks its own cells. Symptoms include skin abnormalities and kidney problems. It can be fatal if untreated.

Anal Sac Disease
As if dog poop weren't smelly enough, dogs release a foul-smelling substance when they do their business. The substance comes from small anal sacs, which can become impacted if they don't empty properly. The hallmark of impacted anal sacs is a dog scooting his bottom along the ground. Other symptoms include biting or licking the anal area. A vet can manually express full anal sacs, but in severe cases, the sacs may be surgically removed.

When to See the Vet
Although most skin problems are not emergencies, it is important to get an accurate diagnosis so the condition can be treated. See your veterinarian if your dog is scratching or licking excessively, or if you notice any changes in your pet's coat or skin, including scaling, redness, discoloration, or bald patches. Once the cause is identified, most skin problems respond well to treatment.

Probably the Happiest Dog In The World

Probably the Happiest Dog In The World

 

Candice Sedighan and her golden retriever Champ is what you can call a real dream team! 20-year-old photographer needs no other model when her dog has enough patience to sit still and pose even with a live butterfly on his nose. Candice got Champ from her dad back when she was 9, but it wasn't until the age of 13, when she got her first digital camera, that the retriever had a chance to unveil just how photogenic it really was.

 

"I really like to capture the true essence with dogs, which is that they're always so happy," she says. "The time Champ and I spend together, he's just always beaming with happiness and you can really see that through my photos," says Candice. And yes, every single picture radiates happiness and joy, and by seeing how enthusiastic Champ is, you can practically see the happiness on Candice's face as well.

 

Candice has already won several photography contests with the joyous pictures of Champ, some of the images were also released as greeting cards. Whether he poses as a pilot or a captain, wears a birthday cap or plays with soap bubbles, Champ makes you go "aww" with every picture. Don't you just love seeing something so genuine and natural?

 

 

 

Gavin Buchanan, Donates tooth Fairy Money.

5 year old boy donates tooth fairy money and allowance money to buy a vest for a police K-9!

Meet Gavin Buchanan. He's 5 years old, and has a heart of gold. He also has a soft-spot for man's best friend. He's been saving up his chore money, and money he got from the tooth fairy.

But Gavin wasn't saving for candy, or toys. He had something far more important in mind. He saved up $100 and donated it all to help buy a bullet proof vest for a police dog.

Gavin had the honor of presenting the vest to "Eddie" a K-9 from the Palo Alto, Police Department.

"Eddie", a German Shepherd, was in Alameda, California yesterday where many of the dogs were competing in a Police K-9 competition.

Police officers gathered at the event were extremely touched by Gavin's gift. "At 5 years old, that's a huge amount of money and we're absolutely grateful and thankful for him doing such a thing," said one officer.

Way to go Gavin, what an amazing thing to do! 

Leo An Eye Dog.. for blind

While Ellie's mom was saving for cataract surgery, Leo the GSD appointed himself as a guide dog and bodyguard for his blind friend. Leo would make sure that other dogs playing in the park wouldn't run into her and would lead her around in the grass, making sure he was safe at all times. He never once left his friend behind.

Cocker Spaniel Sniffer Dog Helps Reduce Anti-social Activities in Hospitals.

Coco, a 15-month-old Cocker Spaniel, is a police sniffer dog and is doing a great job of spotting patients who use illegal drugs in hospital wards.

She has been given this post at the hospitals run by Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust in Newcastle.
Coco will be doing hospital rounds along with her dog handler John McCarroll to sniff out visitors, patients and hospital staff too who could be misusing drugs. 

Coco was hired to deter drug dealers to sell drugs to patients, after the hospital received reports about such activities. Having the hospital's own search dog would most certainly help curb nefarious anti-social activities in the hospital. 

Gary O'Hare, director of nursing and operations at the trust said, "They will ensure we can continue to offer a safe and supportive environment for those receiving treatment, whilst giving people the confidence to report anything they find suspicious, either in our buildings or anywhere in our grounds."

Food that's not for your pet dog

 

Dangerous Foods for Dogs
Who can resist those big brown eyes and cute doggie grin? Can a little reward from the table really hurt your dog? Well, that depends on what it is and what's in it. A chip with guacamole can cause your dog some real problems. In fact, there's a lot of people food your dog should never eat. And, it's not just because of weight. Some foods are downright dangerous for dogs -- and some of these common foods may surprise you.

Avocado
No matter how good you think the guacamole is, you shouldn't give it to your dog. Avocados contain a substance called persin. It's harmless for humans who aren't allergic. But large amounts might be toxic to dogs. If you happen to be growing avocados at home, keep your dog away from the plants. Persin is in the leaves, seed, and bark, as well as in the fruit.

Alcohol
Beer, liquor, wine, foods containing alcohol -- none of it's good for your dog. That's because alcohol has the same effect on a dog's liver and brain that it has on humans. But it takes far less to do its damage. Just a little can cause vomiting, diarrhea, central nervous system depression, problems with coordination, difficulty breathing, coma, even death. And the smaller the dog, the greater the effect.

Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic in all forms -- powdered, raw, cooked, or dehydrated -- can destroy a dog's red blood cells, leading to anemia. That can happen even with the onion powder found in some baby food. An occasional small dose is probably OK. But just eating a large quantity once or eating smaller amounts regularly can cause poisoning. Symptoms of anemia include weakness, vomiting, little interest in food, dullness, and breathlessness.

Coffee, Tea, and Other Caffeine
Caffeine in large enough quantities can be fatal for a dog. And, there is no antidote. Symptoms of caffeine poisoning include restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, fits, and bleeding. In addition to tea and coffee - including beans and grounds -- caffeine can be found in cocoa, chocolate, colas, and stimulant drinks such as Red Bull. It's also in some cold medicines and pain killers.

Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins have often been used as treats for dogs. But it's not a good idea. Although it isn't clear why, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. And just a small amount can make a dog ill. Repeated vomiting is an early sign. Within a day, the dog will become lethargic and depressed. The best prevention is to keep grapes and raisins off counters and other places your dog can reach.

Milk and Other Dairy Products
On a hot day, it may be tempting to share your ice cream cone with your dog. But if your dog could, it would thank you for not doing so. Milk and milk-based products can cause diarrhea and other digestive upset as well as set up food allergies (which often manifest as itchiness).

Macadamia Nuts
Dogs should not eat macadamia nuts or foods containing macadamia nuts because they can be fatal. As few as six raw or roasted macadamia nuts can make a dog ill. Symptoms of poisoning include muscle tremors, weakness or paralysis of the hindquarters, vomiting, elevated body temperature, and rapid heart rate. Eating chocolate with the nuts will make symptoms worse, possibly leading to death.

Candy and Gum
Candy, gum, toothpaste, baked goods, and some diet foods are sweetened with xylitol. Xylitol can cause an increase in the insulin circulating through your dog's body. That can cause your dog's blood sugar to drop and can also cause liver failure. Initial symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, and loss of coordination. Eventually, the dog may have seizures. Liver failure can occur within just a few days.

Chocolate
Most people know that chocolate is bad for dogs. The toxic agent in chocolate is theobromine. It's in all kinds of chocolate, even white chocolate. The most dangerous kinds, though, are dark chocolate, chocolate mulch, and unsweetened baking chocolate. Eating chocolate, even just licking the icing bowl, can cause a dog to vomit, have diarrhea, and be excessively thirsty. It can also cause abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures, and death.

Fat Trimmings and Bones
Table scraps often contain meat fat that a human didn't eat and bones. Both are dangerous for dogs. Fat trimmed from meat, both cooked and uncooked, can cause pancreatitis in dogs. And, although it seems natural to give a dog a bone, a dog can choke on it. Bones can also splinter and cause an obstruction or lacerations of your dog's digestive system. It's best to just forget about the doggie bag.

Persimmons, Peaches, and Plums
The problem with these fruits is the seeds or pits. The seeds from persimmons can cause inflammation of the small intestine in dogs. They can also cause intestinal obstruction. Obstruction is also a possibility if a dog eats the pit from a peach or plum. Plus, peach and plum pits contain cyanide, which is poisonous to both humans and dogs. The difference is humans know not to eat them. Dogs don't.

Raw Eggs
There are two problems with giving your dog raw eggs. The first is the possibility of food poisoning from bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli. The second is that an enzyme in raw eggs interferes with the absorption of a particular B vitamin. This can cause skin problems as well as problems with your dog's coat if raw eggs are fed for a long time.

Raw Meat and Fish
Raw meat and raw fish, like raw eggs, can contain bacteria that causes food poisoning. In addition, certain kinds of fish such as salmon, trout, shad, or sturgeon can contain a parasite that causes "fish disease" or "salmon poisoning disease." If not treated, the disease can be fatal within two weeks. The first signs of illness are vomiting, fever, and big lymph nodes. Thoroughly cooking the fish will kill the parasite and protect your dog.

Salt
It's not a good idea to share salty foods like chips or pretzels with your dog. Eating too much salt can cause excessive thirst and urination and lead to sodium ion poisoning. Symptoms of too much salt include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, tremors, elevated body temperature, and seizures. It may even cause death.

Sugary Foods and Drinks
Too much sugar can do the same thing to dogs that it does to humans. It can lead to obesity, dental problems, and possibly the onset of diabetes.

Yeast Dough
Before it's baked, bread dough needs to rise. And, that's exactly what it would do in your dog's stomach if your dog ate it. As it swells inside, the dough can stretch the dog's abdomen and cause severe pain. In addition, when the yeast ferments the dough to make it rise, it produces alcohol that can lead to alcohol poisoning.

Your Medicine
Reaction to a drug commonly prescribed for humans is the most common cause of poisoning in dogs. Just as you would do for your children, keep all medicines out of your dog's reach. And, never give your dog any over-the-counter medicine unless told to do so by your vet. Ingredients such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen are common in pain relievers and cold medicine. And, they can be deadly for your dog.

Kitchen Pantry: No Dogs Allowed
Many other items commonly found on kitchen shelves can harm your dog. For instance, baking powder and baking soda are both highly toxic. So are nutmeg and other spices. Keeping food items high enough to be out of your dog's reach and keeping pantry doors closed will help protect your dog from serious food-related illness.

What Dogs Can Eat
You can ensure your dog has a healthy, well-balanced diet by asking your vet to recommend a quality dog food. A well-designed dog food gives your pet all the nutrients it needs for an active and healthy life. But that doesn't mean you can't sometimes give your dog human food as a special treat -- as long as portions are limited, and the foods are cooked, pure, and not fatty or heavily seasoned. See the next few slides for some tasty suggestions. But if you're looking to human food as a meal replacement, talk to your vet about amounts and frequency.

Safe: Lean Meats
Most dogs are fine eating lean cuts of meat that have been thoroughly cooked. Be sure to remove all visible fat -- including the skin on poultry. Also be sure that there are no bones in the meat before you give it to your dog.

Safe: Some Fresh Fruits
Slices of apples, oranges, bananas, and watermelon make tasty treats for your dog. Be sure to remove any seeds first, though. Seeds, stems, and leaves can cause serious problems.

Safe: Some Vegetables
Your dog can have a healthy snack of carrot sticks, green beans, cucumber slices, or zucchini slices. Even a plain baked potato is OK. Be sure, though, not to let your dog eat any raw potatoes or any potato plants it might have access to in your garden.

Safe: Cooked White Rice and Pasta
Dogs may enjoy plain white rice or pasta after it's cooked. And, a serving of plain white rice with some boiled chicken can sometimes provide welcome relief from gastrointestinal upset.

Things to learn from your pet

Forget Multitasking
When dogs have a job to do, they give it their undivided attention. It turns out people should probably do the same. Stanford researchers found that attention and memory suffer in those who juggle work, email, and web-surfing, compared to those who focus on one task at a time. Other studies suggest employees actually lose time when multitasking.

Take Naps
You won't catch your pet going from dawn to dusk without any shut-eye.  There's good evidence humans can benefit from catnaps, too. A study involving about 24,000 people indicates regular nappers are 37% less likely to die from heart disease than people who nap only occasionally. Short naps can also enhance alertness and job performance.

Walk Every Day
Whether you've got four legs or two, walking is one of the safest, easiest ways to burn calories and boost heart health. Taking regular walks can also help you:
Fight depression.
Lose weight.
Lower your risk for type 2 diabetes.
Lower the risk of breast and colon cancer.
Keep your bones strong.
Keep your mind sharp.

Cultivate Friendships
People are social animals, and friendships have measurable health benefits.  Researchers in Australia followed 1,500 older people for 10 years. Those with the most friends were 22% less likely to die than those with the fewest friends.

Live in the Moment
Living in the moment may be one of the most important lessons we can learn from our pets. In a study called "A Wandering Mind Is an Unhappy Mind," Harvard psychologists conclude that people are happiest when doing activities that keep the mind focused, such as sex or exercise. Planning, reminiscing, or thinking about anything other than the current activity can undermine happiness.

Don't Hold a Grudge
Part of living in the moment is letting bygones be bygones. Let go of old grudges, and you'll literally breathe easier. Chronic anger has been linked to a decline in lung function, while forgiveness contributes to lower blood pressure and reduced anxiety. People who forgive also tend to have higher self-esteem.

Wag
OK, so maybe you don't have a tail. But you can smile or put a spring in your step when you're feeling grateful. Researchers have found a strong connection between gratitude and general well-being. In one study, people who kept gratitude journals had better attitudes, exercised more, and had fewer physical complaints.

Be Silly
Indulging in a little silliness may have serious health benefits. Cardiologists at the University of Maryland Medical Center found a stronger sense of humor in people with healthy hearts than in those who had suffered a heart attack. They conclude that "laughter is the best medicine" – especially when it comes to protecting your heart.

Get a Back Rub
The power of touch is nothing to sniff at. The Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine has found massage therapy can ease pain, give the immune system a boost, and help manage chronic conditions like asthma and diabetes. The touch of a loved one may be even more powerful. In one study, married women experienced less anxiety over the threat of an electric shock when they held their husbands' hands.

Drink Water When You're Thirsty
Dogs don't lap up sports drinks when they've been playing hard – and most people don't need to either. During a typical workout, drinking water is the best way to stay hydrated. Water gives your muscles and tissues critical fluid without adding to your calorie count. Be sure to drink more than usual on hot days or when you're sweating a lot.

Eat Fish
Most cats would trade kibble for a can of tuna any day. Luckily, you can choose to make fish a regular part of your diet. Salmon, tuna, trout, and other fatty fish are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which may reduce the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and arthritis. In addition, Rush University researchers found that people who eat fish at least once a week are 60% less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease.

If You Love Someone, Show It
Dogs don't play hard to get – when they love you, they show you. It's a good approach for people seeking to strengthen their relationships. A study published in the journal Personal Relationships suggests small, thoughtful gestures can have a big impact on how connected and satisfied couples feel.

Play
Goofing off is not just for kids and kittens. In his book, Play, Stuart Brown, MD, writes that playing is a basic human need along with sleeping and eating. Play enhances intelligence, creativity, problem-solving, and social skills. So take a cue from your pet and devote yourself to an activity that has no purpose other than sheer fun.

Enjoy the Great Outdoors
A hike in the woods may be a dog's idea of bliss, but it has plenty of benefits for the human mind and body as well. Spending time outdoors can enhance fitness, increase vitamin D levels, and reduce stress. In children, playing in natural settings has also been linked to better distance vision, fewer ADHD symptoms, and better performance in school.

Make Time to Groom
Aside from the obvious health benefits of bathing and brushing your teeth, grooming can have a number of positive effects on your life. Good personal hygiene is vital to self-esteem. A tidy appearance can also help you get and maintain a job.

Be Aware of Body Language
Dogs are excellent at reading each other's intent from body language. Humans, not so much. While most of us do reveal our emotions through posture, speech patterns, and eye contact, other people generally aren't very good at reading those cues. People get better at decoding body language as they get older.

Stretch Often
Stretching will keep you limber, but the benefits don't stop there. In a 10-week study, volunteers who did no exercise other than stretching experienced surprising physical changes. Besides improving flexibility, they increased their muscle strength, power, and endurance. Although the study was a small one, the results suggest stretching may be a good alternative for people who have a condition that rules out traditional strength-training.

Seek Out Shade
When you're at the park, and your pooch is ready for a break, she'll probably find a nice shady spot to relax. Dermatologists recommend you follow suit, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. That’s when you would soak up the most UV rays, particularly during late spring and early summer. While you're sheltered in the shade, it's a good idea to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin.

Stick to a Schedule
Pets like the consistency of a routine – they can’t tell a Saturday from a Monday. The same goes for the human body clock. People sleep better if they go to bed and get up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Sticking to a consistent schedule for bathing, dressing, and eating can also improve the quality of sleep.

Weirdest Dog Breeds Ever

1. Puli

 

The Puli is known for its tight dreadlocks that make it look like a mop, but the dreads also stop it from shedding and make it waterproof. While no one knows exactly where pulis come from, there are indications that ancient Romans owned similar dogs and there is some evidence that shows the breed is over 6,000 years old. What is known is that they could be found in Asia over 2,000 years ago and were introduced into Hungary 1,000 years ago.
The Hungarians quickly took to the animals, which made great sheepherders, along with a similar, but larger breed known as the Komondor. The two dogs would watch the sheep day and night, with the Puli serving as the lookout and the Komondor operating as the muscle necessary to stop wolves and other predators. The Pulis were so highly regarded during this period that it was not uncommon for a shepherd to pay a full year's salary just for one of the dogs.
While the breed's dreadlocks grow naturally, owners still need to actively groom the dog, keeping the cords clean, neat and thin. The cords can grow long enough to reach the ground or they can be trimmed short. The dogs are very active and intelligent, requiring a lot of attention and exercise.

 

2. Xoloitzcuintli

 

The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced Sho-lo-eets-quint-lee , although it's sometimes called "Mexican hairless or just shortened to" Xolo") is a hairless Mexican dog that is so primitive that it was actually worshiped by the Aztecs. According to the mythology, the god Xolotl made the dogs from a sliver of the Bone of Life, which was also used to create all of mankind. Xolotl gave the dog to man, asking him to guard it with his life. In exchange, the dog would guide man through the world of death.
Because the breed is not well-known in the US, the Xolo has been mistaken for the mythological Chupacabra in US border states such as Arizona and Texas.
The Xolos are mellow and loyal dogs once they reach adulthood, but up until they become emotionally mature at age two, they are still highly noisy, chewy and high-energy. The breed was not inbred like many other purebred animals, so they are incredibly healthy, but they do require moisturizer, sunscreen and baths to prevent sunburn, acne and blackheads.

 

3. Peruvian Inca Orchid

 

While they may be called orchids, these pups are 100% dog. In many ways, they are like the Xolos, an ancient hairless breed. Like their Northern neighbor breed, these pups were worshiped by another ancient civilization, this time, the Incas, but the breed is actually a lot older than the Incan culture. Pictures of the breed appeared in Peruvian artwork from as far back as 750 A.D.
Peruvian folklore, much of which is based on Incan stories, says that hugging the dogs can help with medicinal problems, particularly stomach problems.
Sadly, the animals were almost ran out of existence after the Spanish conquest of Peru. Small villages in rural areas are all that kept the breed alive and more recently, Peruvian breeders worked to protect the remaining Inca Orchids, ensuring significant bloodline diversity.
These pups make great dogs, but they can be a little headstrong and require proper training from a young age. They also need lotion and lots of baths to prevent sunburn, acne and dry skin, and they do very poorly in warm weather.

 

4. Norwegian Lundehund

 

The Lundehund has some amazing features that make it physically unlike any other breed. One of its more distinct characteristics is the fact that it has six toes on each foot. It also has unique shoulder and neck joints that allow it to stretch its legs out straight in both directions and to reach its forehead all the way to its back. It also can close its ear canal at will to prevent dirt and water from getting in. All of this makes the Lundehund an amazing avian hunter in its native country, as it is an agile swimmer and a great climber on near-vertical cliffs and steep crevices. The dogs were originally trained to hunt puffins, all the way back in the 1600s, but after the practice died out, the breed almost went extinct. By the 1900s, the only small population survived in the small village of Monstad.
In 1963, there were only 6 of the dogs alive and thanks to the care and effort of a few dedicated breeders, there are now at least 1500 of the dogs alive. While the animals have been carefully bred to protect their bloodline, there is still a serious problem with genetic bottlenecking in the breed. For this reason, all of the existing dogs are subject to a disease known as Lundehund gastroenteropathy that can prevent the dogs from being able to derive nutrients and protein from their food.

 

5. Chinese Crested

 

These poor pups have a bad rep as far as cuteness goes. Personally, I think they're so ugly they're cute, but you can't argue with the fact that 6 of the last 10 World's Ugliest Dog Contests were Chinese Crested. As it turns out, the dogs aren't always born without fur, there are actually two varieties of the dogs, one has hair and one doesn't. Both can even be born in the same litter.
The version with hair is known as the "powderpuff" variety. Strangely, the hairless variety can have a full coat of hair if the gene that causes hairlessness isn't expressed as strongly. When this occurs, it can actually be hard to tell the two varieties apart, but the hairless variety only has a single coat and the powderpuff has two. Another strange difference between the two is that the hairless dogs often lack a full set of premolar teeth.
It's worth noting that Chinese Cresteds aren't even from China. While no one is certain of where the dog comes from, many suspect it originated in Africa, but there is also some evidence showing that it shares some of its breed history with the Xolo.

 

6. Carolina Dog

 

This dog doesn't look too out of the ordinary, but what makes it unique lies not in its physical appearance, but its DNA. As it turns out, the Carolina Dog may be the oldest canine species in North America, appearing in rock paintings by early Native Americans. They also share DNA with Australian Dingos and New Guinea Singing Dogs. They are still relatively primitive animals, subject to social hierarchy problems between their owners and are not recommended for first-time dog owners.

 

7. Catahoula Leopard Dog

 

These pups aren't just unique because they have a cool name, they also are amazing hunters and are even able to climb trees to chase prey. The dogs are believed to be one of the longest surviving breeds in all of North America and were prized by Native Americans for their amazing hunting abilities. The breed's name comes from the Catahoula Parish of Louisiana, where the breed originated. Since then, many famous hunters have owned Catahoulas, including Jim Bowie and Teddy Roosevelt.
As a working dog, they are known for having a lot of energy, but if properly exercised, these loyal dogs can be easy to train for herding, police work, or even to do tricks for their family's pleasure.

 

8. Neapolitan Mastiff

 

Fans of the harry Potter movies might recognize the massive mongrels as Hagrid's pet, Fang. While they aren't quite as massive as the one in the movie was made to appear, the dogs are incredibly large, standing over two and a half feet tall at the shoulder and weighing up to 150 pounds. Historically, the breed is said to have fought beside the Roman Legions, wearing bladed spiked leather harnesses so they could run under the bellies of enemy horses and disembowel them.
Sadly, despite their long breed history, they were almost extinct after WWII, but shortly after, an Italian painter set up a kennel to protect the breed by mixing the remaining Neapolitan Mastiffs with a few English Mastiffs to help diversify the bloodline.
The dogs are great pets, but are extremely protective of their families and need socialization from a young age in order to ensure they are not aggressive against strangers. They will rarely bark unless provoked and as a result, they are renowned for their stealth when attacking intruders.

John Unger and his dog Schoep

Hannah Stonehouse Hudson / Stonehouse Photography

John Unger and his dog Schoep used to float anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour, depending on the temperature of the water and how Schoep was feeling.

Schoep, the arthritic dog who became an Internet sensation last summer when he was photographed floating peacefully in Lake Superior in his owner’s arms, has passed away.

The 20-year-old dog’s owner, John Unger, announced the death of his best friend on Facebook on Thursday evening.

“I Breathe But I Can't Catch My Breath...” Unger wrote. “Schoep passed yesterday. More information in the days ahead.”

The bond between Schoep and Unger captivated tens of thousands of animal lovers when their photo and story began circulating nearly a year ago. Last July, Unger feared that he was mere days from needing to put then-19-year-old Schoep down. In anticipation of his loss, he asked a friend to take one last photo of them together.

In loving arms: Man floats his sick dog to sleep, becomes Internet sensation

That friend, photographer Hannah Stonehouse Hudson, met them at Lake Superior, where Unger liked to help Schoep float to take pressure off his arthritic joints. She captured a photo of the two of them in the lake and posted it on her Facebook page on Aug. 1.

That image ricocheted around the world and resulted in an outpouring of online donations and support. The help Unger received allowed him to afford treatments to alleviate his dog’s condition.

Hannah Stonehouse Hudson / Stonehouse Photography

John Unger always wanted Schoep to experience everything, so he brought him everywhere he went. They regularly took three walks a day.

“As best as I can guess, the treatments have turned back the clock on his life about a year-and-a-half to two years,” Unger told TODAY.com in September 2012. “I’ve taken him for walks on trails that we haven’t been on in three years. He’s not dragging his back legs like he was before. To be able to do that again with him, words can’t even describe the feeling.”

Happy tail: How the Internet changed 'floating dog's' life

Just this Monday, Unger posted a happy update about Schoep on Facebook along with a photo of the shepherd mix falling asleep in the sunshine, surrounded by bright yellow flowers:

“A fantastic day we had. Up early to walk and go to the beach, eat, nap, go shopping, eat, laundry, go to the beach, eat, nap and one more walk. All without the humidity, that’s what made it fantastic — especially for Schoep!”

'No dog should die alone': Photographer promotes senior pet adoption

Stonehouse Hudson, the photographer who made Schoep and Unger famous,posted this on her Facebook page on Thursday night:

“RIP Schoep. He had an amazing life and touched us all. Please keep John in your thoughts.”

Stories of Unbelievable Dog Friendship

 

 

 

 

'Norman the Scooter Dog' goes for Guinness World Record

'Norman the Scooter Dog' propels himself on a scooter in an attempt to break a Guinness World Records for distance and speed by a dog on a scooter at a charity event in Marietta, Ga., on Friday

Rescue puppies get surprising stand-in mom: A capybara

Janice Wolf has made it her mission in life to rescue animals that others might not. When dogs come to stay at her 15-acre home in Midway, Ark., which doubles as an animal "group home," they’re often pregnant and malnourished. Many have endured significant — sometimes life-threatening — abuse.

As a result, Wolf’s dogs are often too weak to care for their litters for an extended period of time. And that’s where capybara Cheesecake steps in to foster them.

Two-and-half years ago, a group of Wolf's Facebook friends presented her with baby Cheesecake as a gift to express their condolences over the death of the most famous animal to live on her property: Lurch, a steer that held the Guiness World Record for the largest horn circumference.

Capybaras are the world’s largest (and possibly most stoic-looking) rodent, but that hasn’t stopped Cheesecake from taking on a maternal role with the little ones living at Wolf’s Rocky Ridge Refuge while they wait for new homes. She cuddles with the pups, lets them parade around with her, and makes them mind their manners around the food bowl.

“The moms all trust Cheese with their babies, and the babies trust her,” Wolf told TODAY.com. “It’s a really good transition for them; they learn to be big guys and independent.”

Rocky Ridge Refuge

Cheesecake enjoys a Fourth of July treat with Skylark and Delta's puppies -- and a tortoise.

It’s been this way since Cheesecake first arrived at Wolf’s home. Though timid around humans, she took to Wolf’s rescued dogs right away, playing all day and sleeping with them at night. “She preferred them to me,” Wolf said with a laugh.

When a litter of motherless dachshund puppies, found in a Tupperware container outside of a church, arrived at the refuge on March 6, Wolf sent them out to play in Cheesecake’s fenced-in area. It wasn't long before Cheesecake started showing off her maternal instincts.

“She lets them be puppies, but she gives them someone to look up to,” Wolf, 55, said. “If they dive in their food bowl, she’ll let them know that’s rude. She’s not a pushover.”

More recently, Cheesecake has been caring for two separate litters, stepping in for moms Skylark and Delta. Wolf dubbed Skylark’s babies the "car pups" because of the unusual circumstances surrounding their birth.

Rocky Ridge Refuge

Capybaras are social creatures by nature, according to Wolf.

In mid-May, Wolf was notified that a pregnant pit bull mix with a BB gun injury was at risk of being euthanized at a shelter. She picked up Skylark the next day to take her to a vet for a C-section so the puppies could be delivered safely. But the babies had another idea: Skylark went into labor on the way to the appointment.

“Poor thing, she was scared to death,” Wolf said.

Two puppies greeted the world from the inside of Wolf’s car, and another two were born as soon as they got back to the refuge. By the next day, Skylark had given birth to seven pups, of which four ended up surviving.

While Skylark was receiving medical attention and gaining strength back on her own, Cheesecake took over as a surrogate.

Rocky Ridge Refuge

Rocky Ridge Refuge is home to all kinds of animals, from zebras to rabbits. Wolf's turtle, Crouton, also has an unusual relationship with other animals on the refuse: He likes to snuggle with them.

Skylark’s story may seem unusual, but she's the kind of dog Wolf rescues every week, as her home has become a revolving door for abused moms and their litters from all over the country. As soon as she’s raised one brood and found them happy homes, another litter moves right in. And the babies have even taken over one of the more sacred human spaces: her bedroom. Not that Wolf minds, of course.

“I didn’t intend for my bedroom to be the welcome room, but there have been puppies underfoot in my bedroom for many, many mouths,” she said. “It’s here for the animals; my bed just happens to be there.”