Latest news with #ASPCA
Yahoo
8 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
"LEAVE THEM ALONE! The Best Way To Gain Trust Is To Let A Dog Go At Their Own Speed" And Other Tips For Fostering Dogs That Will Make You Want To Foster Every Single Pup You Meet
Isabel Klee, based in Brooklyn, NY, has been fostering dogs for years. She's fostered 23 dogs full-time and creates content that chronicles their progress and candidly shares their challenges and fears. And recently, her 23rd foster, a sweet, struggling dog named Tiki, caught the attention of millions of viewers online. For those of you who weren't following along, when Tiki first found himself in Isabel's care, he was disaffected and fearful of so much, from accepting belly rubs to being held, and nearly everything in between. As Isabel had done with her other fosters before, she vlogged about her and Tiki's experience with daily updates on their journey. And, in doing so, Isabel allowed people to follow along and root for Tiki as he braved the outdoors, discovered the joy of zoomies, and blossomed into the silly and goofy pup his fans have come to know and love. If you want to read more about Tiki's journey, BuzzFeed reported on Isabel and Tiki here! Tiki's story was and continues to be inspiring, but it's not unique. According to the ASPCA, in 2024, approximately 5.8 million dogs and cats are estimated to have entered shelters. There are so many other little Tikis out there in need of supportive foster care and loving forever homes. So I spoke with Isabel to hear her thoughts and advice for anyone who is thinking of volunteering as a foster parent to a dog. So, without further ado, here are nine of Isabel's tips, tricks, insights, and pieces of advice on fostering dogs: 1."The best way to gain [a dog's] trust is to let them go at their own speed." I asked Isabel if she had any specific advice for fostering dogs that are disaffected or shut down, and she shared, "LEAVE THEM ALONE! The best way to gain trust is to let a dog go at their own speed. Don't push them, pressure them, or cross their boundaries. They need to feel like they're calling the shots, and most dogs will let you know when they're ready to progress. Tiki approached me for his first pets, and it took 13 days for me to touch him for the first time." you're worried about the potential money stresses of taking care of a pet, even temporarily, just know that fostering a dog is probably not as financially demanding as it might seem. Isabel told me that she has been fostering since she was 25, "because [she] loved dogs but didn't have enough money to get [one] of her own." She said that even though each organization is different, "Fostering is great because, with most rescues, you don't have to pay for anything. They will cover food, vet care, toys, basically any supplies you might need. I quickly fell in love with the process and have continued fostering even after adopting my dog Simon!" three most important traits for being a successful foster parent to a dog are patience, a sense of humor, and empathy. In Isabel's words, "It's so important to go into [fostering] knowing your rugs will probably get pooped on, your foster will probably break something, etc. but having patience and empathy for what the dog is going through is key." don't need to do a ton to prepare, but Isabel recommends designating an area for a crate. "Honestly, I didn't do any preparation, even though I probably should have. I jumped in with zero experience and just figured it out as I went," Isabel told me. She went on, "If I were to start now, I would have a designated area for a crate where the dog can be home and feel safe, and I would make sure to stick to a strict routine." 5."Fostering fits into most lifestyles." It's a common misconception that volunteering to foster a dog means that the foster parent needs to work from home or that they can't travel while they're in their care. But that's not true. Isabel said, "I always tell people, being home alone in a quiet apartment is so much better for a dog than being in a loud, stressful shelter where they're only getting maybe 2-3 short walks a day. Even if you go into the office, the dog will be totally fine snoozing the day away! Also, travel is super easy to accommodate for - you can just request a temporary foster who will watch your foster dog while you're out of town. Fostering fits into most lifestyles!" there is no one set length of time you need to allocate in order to foster a dog. I asked Isabel how long a dog usually stays in her care, and she said, "It really depends. I've had some dogs for four days and some dogs for two months. Most dogs that I have [had] for longer have medical or behavioral issues that need to be sorted before being adopted, but if a dog is all ready to go, they can be adopted very quickly!" Many people believe that you are on the hook to foster a dog until they get adopted, but most organizations are flexible and have fostering opportunities that can be as short as a weekend or just two weeks. shouldn't feel any pressure to adopt your foster dog. When I asked Isabel about the unexpected challenges she's faced since getting into fostering dogs, she shared that strangers have pressured her to adopt her foster dogs. But that she knows "the power of fostering and how important the work [she does] is." She also shared that people often say to her that "they could never foster because they 'love dogs too much' and would get too attached." In both instances, she's gotten good at tuning out these types of comments. dogs is such a beautiful way to give back, but it's also just so much fun. Isabel told me, "People always look at fostering as this incredible, selfless thing, and it can be! But it's also just so joyful and fun. I can't tell you how many nights I've spent laughing as my foster dog learns to play fetch for the first time or does something silly." might want to start fostering ASAP. When I asked if she could go back and tell herself one piece of advice before her first foster, Isabel shared, "I wish I had started fostering sooner! It's such a huge part of my life and so rewarding, and I can't wait to meet all the dogs I have yet to save." There you have it, nine insights from Isabel for those of you considering fostering a dog! And if you want to learn more, Isabel has a book coming out this fall titled, Dogs, Boys, and Other Things I've Cried About. You can also follow her on Instagram and TikTok, where you can learn more about her journey fostering dogs. And if you are interested in getting into volunteering, check out your local animal rescue or shelter. If you're based in New York, Muddy Paws Rescue is where Tiki was located before being fostered and ultimately adopted.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Rescued XL Bully Gets First Bath and Zoomies and It's Pure Joy
Rescued XL Bully Gets First Bath and Zoomies and It's Pure Joy originally appeared on Parade Pets. Rescue Dogs are truly special. No matter the hardships they've endured, once they find a loving home, they embrace the future with hope and wonder. That's certainly true for Goliath, an extra-large, extra-fabulous RescuedBully. Found wandering the streets, emaciated and ill, he spent weeks in a compassionate shelter getting nursed back to health before joining an experienced foster family. And it hasn't taken him long to revel in life's joys. Watch his delightful post-bath zoomie session in this Instagram video from June 14. Though Goliath's past was tough, his future shines brightly. This XL Bully's enthusiastic tail wags radiate joy and gratitude. Taken in by Laurel and Rob, seasoned foster parents with six dogs of their own, he's now slow, wet hops around the kitchen and leaping into his foster dad's arms are every dog parent's dream, especially knowing the rough road he's traveled. Goliath shows even more of his vibrant personality each day in their care. Even a trip to the vet is no challenge for this sweetheart! It's just another chance to shower everyone with his big kisses. Check out his impeccable behavior in this heartwarming video from June 17. Rescue Dogs like Goliath often show remarkable resilience and adaptability. According to the ASPCA, approximately 2 million dogs are adopted from U.S. shelters annually, with many, like Bully breeds, overcoming neglect or abuse to become loyal companions. Their ability to trust again highlights their forgiving nature and why they are such cherished family members. 🐶SIGN UP to get 'pawsitivity' delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾 This good boy quickly stole people's hearts. Viewer @_i_am_not_jackblack gushed, 'OMG, he must be an excellent snuggler. What a chunk of love!' He's the best! Viewer @treasuringtia responded, 'Even his zoomies are in slow motion. Such a gentle giant!' He's a well-mannered treasure. And @charubadub added, 'I can feel the air move when his tail wags.' That's for sure! Goliath's journey proves that love can heal even the deepest wounds. With every zoomie and kiss, he's showing that second chances lead to endless possibilities for Rescue Dogs and boundless joy for those lucky enough to make them part of the family. Rescued XL Bully Gets First Bath and Zoomies and It's Pure Joy first appeared on Parade Pets on Jun 19, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade Pets on Jun 19, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
DoubleDown Interactive to Donate $10,000 to the ASPCA®
SEOUL, South Korea, June 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DoubleDown Interactive Co., Ltd. (NASDAQ: DDI) ('DoubleDown' or the 'Company'), a leading developer and publisher of digital games on mobile and web-based platforms, announced today a $10,000 donation to the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) in support of its mission to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to dogs, cats, equines, and farm animals throughout the United States. DoubleDown Casino, played daily by millions of fans worldwide on both desktop and mobile devices, will invite players to engage with and show support for the charitable donation by taking part in a play-to-enter giveaway on June 18, 2025. This exciting Giving Meow event offers players the chance to show their support for the ASPCA and learn more about the organization's work to help vulnerable animals in the United States, particularly during 'kitten season,' a time of year when there are many litters of cats in need of care. 'DoubleDown Interactive has long been committed to supporting the ASPCA and we are proud to do so again this year,' said In Keuk Kim, CEO of DoubleDown. 'We are all animal lovers here, as are our players, and kitten season is a perfect time of year to focus on the ASPCA's great work.' "We are grateful to DoubleDown Interactive for their generous support and continued commitment to animals in need," said Matthew Carroll, Director, ASPCA Cause Partnerships. "This donation comes at a critical time during kitten season, when shelters across the country are caring for an influx of vulnerable animals. Partnerships like this help us provide lifesaving resources to ensure the safety and welfare of animals across the country." Visit the ASPCA website: Follow the latest activity on our social media pages:Facebook: About DoubleDown DoubleDown Interactive Co., Ltd. is a leading developer and publisher of digital games on mobile and web-based platforms. We are the creators of multi-format interactive entertainment experiences for casual players, bringing authentic Vegas entertainment to players around the world through an online social casino experience. The Company's flagship title, DoubleDown Casino, has been a fan-favorite game on leading social and mobile platforms for years, entertaining millions of players worldwide with a lineup of classic and modern games. The Company's subsidiary, SuprNation, also operates three real-money iGaming sites in Western Europe. Company Contact:Joe Sigristir@ +1 (206) 773-2266Chief Financial Officerhttps:// Investor Relations Contact:Joseph Jaffoni or Richard LandJCIR+1 (212) 835-8500DDI@ in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Newsweek
12-06-2025
- Newsweek
Owner Takes Dog on Vacation, Then Makes Heartwarming Realization
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A dog owner's first vacation with her furry companion, Oskar, turned into a heartwarming revelation as she saw him enjoying himself on holiday. In a viral TikTok video, the creator shared a clip of Oskar, a poodle, tail wagging and enjoying himself on a pool chair. She confessed that she is "never leaving him home again," inspiring others to bring their pets on their next getaways. Since the video was posted, it has received over 270,000 views. "POV [point of view]: You take your dog on vacation for the first time and realize you're never leaving him home again," the owner captioned the video. "Take this as your sign to bring your dog on your next vacation." File photo: A woman reads a book in a hammock with her dog. File photo: A woman reads a book in a hammock with her dog. Solovyova/Getty Images The video resonated with viewers, many of whom expressed a desire to have a travel experience of their own with their pets. "I really want to do this!" one user wrote. "How did you make sure the place you were staying is secure for him / was it a dog friendly Airbnb?" The owner, from Germany, responded with practical advice: "We looked for dog-friendly Airbnbs and asked the owner in advance whether the property is fenced. Best decision." Another commenter shared an anecdote of their own pet's distress when left behind: "I've stopped going abroad, as the one time I left my dog she was absolutely distraught when I came back," they wrote. "She was yelping, and I was crying. I now go to … a rented cottage and we both absolutely love it. She loves the beach." "Taking your CHILD on vacation, as everyone should," one commenter summed up. Tips for Traveling Safely With Pets For those inspired to set off on pet-friendly adventures, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) offered some comprehensive advice for ensuring a safe and happy trip in a press release. The society emphasized proper preparation for road trips, advising owners to acclimate their pets to the road with a series of short drives first. It is also crucial to keep them up to date with their vaccinations for interstate travel. Identification is also key: "Identify your pet with a tag attached to the collar or harness, and a permanent form of identification like a microchip," the release read. The ASPCA cautioned against complacency: "Don't: Assume your pet will never run from you. Unrestrained pets in unfamiliar circumstances can become frightened or startled and may panic and run into traffic or away from you." With these tips in mind, pet owners inspired by poodle Oskar's vacation can participate in the growing trend of integrating their furry friends into travel plans. Newsweek reached out to @ for comment via TikTok.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Yahoo
Lawsuit over USDA's puppy-mill licensing in Iowa at a standstill in federal court
Steve Kruse's Stonehenge Kennels in West Point, Iowa, has been repeatedly cited for failure to provide adequate veterinary care, and the USDA suspended Kruse's license in 2023. The dog pictured here is one of those that federal inspectors alleged was in need of veterinary care. (Aerial photo courtesy of Bailing Out Benji. Inset photo taken by USDA inspector, courtesy of Bailing Out Benji) A lawsuit alleging the U.S. Department of Agriculture has failed to enforce animal-welfare laws in the state of Iowa remains at a standstill while the litigants wait for a judge's ruling. In September 2024, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals sued the USDA and then-Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, claiming the federal agency and former governor of Iowa violated the federal Animal Welfare Act by repeatedly renewing the license of Steve Kruse, an Iowa-based dog breeder. Kruse operates a large-scale breeding facility, Stonehenge Kennels in West Point, which has a long history of animal welfare violations. The ASPCA claims the USDA routinely licenses dog breeders and dealers such as Kruse despite the agency's direct knowledge of practices that violate federal regulations or fall far below the standards required by the Animal Welfare Act. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, seeks a court order that would force the USDA to void all current licenses issued to Kruse and his associates and prevent the agency from renewing them. In response, the USDA has argued that any decisions as to whether to enforce the Animal Welfare Act through a license suspension or revocation fall within the discretion of the secretary of agriculture — Vilsack at the time of the Kruse case, and now Brooke Rollins of Texas. By challenging past decisions to issue and renew licenses for Kruse and his associates, the USDA argues, the ASPCA is now seeking to 'override the secretary's discretion in licensing matters and impose its policy preferences on the secretary.' According to the ASPCA, the USDA's own inspection reports detail 'horrific treatment of breeding dogs kept caged in Kruse's massive West Point, Iowa operation, which typically holds more than 700 dogs.' The inspectors' reports document observations related to dogs limping and suffering from open, bleeding wounds; dogs with untreated eye infections or severe dental issues; painful fur matting; and a lack of veterinary care. The USDA reports also allege Kruse poured hot sauce on one dog's open wounds to keep the dog from licking them, and housed other dogs in cages so small they restricted the animal's freedom of movement. The dogs also had fecal matter on their coats and in their food bowls, the USDA inspectors alleged. During one inspection, Kruse was alleged to have thrown a bag of dead puppies at a USDA official – but he has continued to operate his dog-breeding business under USDA licensure. The USDA has not filed an answer to the ASPCA's allegations, but in November 2024 sought a dismissal of the case. However, there's been no movement in the case over the past five months while the parties await a judge's ruling on that motion to dismiss. In seeking a dismissal, the USDA claims the ASPCA lacks standing to sue the federal agency, arguing that the courts have only rarely held that individuals or organizations can sue for the unlawful regulation of third parties. Citing past U.S. Supreme Court rulings, the federal agency claims an organization may not establish standing based 'on the intensity of the litigant's interest, or because of strong opposition to the government's conduct.' The ASPCA has responded to that argument by claiming the USDA has 'previously relied on the ASPCA to assist with the rescue of hundreds of dogs when a previous associate of Kruse amassed so many violations of the Animal Welfare Act that the Department of Justice took the unprecedented step of seeking injunctive relief in federal court to halt that licensee's operation.' That assertion is an apparent reference to Daniel Gingerich, an Iowa breeder who operated a puppy mill in connection with Kruse and who was cited for more than 200 violations of the Animal Welfare Act before the U.S. Department of Justice intervened and negotiated the surrender of more than 500 dogs. Such cases have a direct impact on the ASPCA's ability to pursue its mission, the organization says, costing hundreds of thousands of dollars to assist with rescue and relocation efforts. Court records indicate that in 2022, the USDA approved Kruse for a three-year license despite what the ASPCA now calls 'an extensive history of AWA violations' that included violations cited 'on the very day Kruse applied for a license.' Throughout 2023, the ASPCA argues, the USDA observed numerous dogs with severe veterinary care issues, including injuries, diseases, or conditions that had not been treated. In addition, the USDA is alleged to have 'improperly approved' the licenses of two of Kruse's associates in Iowa, Brian Lichirie and Wuanita Swedlund, despite 'full knowledge of the relationship between the parties.' That lawsuit claims that despite the Animal Welfare Act's clear prohibition against issuing more than one license to a dog dealer, Lichirie and Swedlund each hold their own license while operating kennels that are populated by dogs owned by Kruse. Technically, such arrangements are prohibited by the USDA since they can result in 'puppy laundering' –- the process of routing dogs from a serial violator to a different licensee with a relatively clean record, in order to facilitate sales to retailers in the rapidly growing number of jurisdictions that prohibit the sale of dogs sourced from questionable operators. The ASPCA claims the USDA wrote to Kruse nine years ago, in 2016, to inform him that federal law required him, Lichirie and Swedlund to operate under a single license. When Kruse failed to take corrective action, the ASPCA claims, the USDA continued to renew his license and never took any steps to revoke the licenses of Lichirie or Swedlund. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
