Adopting a dog is a big decision but for most families, it really is the BEST decision! Dogs can add so much to our lives and as we know, there are so many waiting for forever homes, writes ilovemydogsomuch

During an investigation, a 5-year-old dog named Drove was found tied up inside an abandoned house. He was taken in by the Humane Society of Memphis & Shelby (HSM&S). As soon as the staff met Drove, he won them all over! His sweet, calm nature and loyal disposition would certainly make him the perfect family pet yet he was passed over time and time again for 7 months!

Newly married couple Morgan and Tyler came in looking to adopt a new dog. Morgan had just lost her Boxer of thirteen years. They both wanted to adopt a rescue so they drove to HSM&S and that is when they met Drove!

It was love at first sight!

“When I received the call that we could adopt him, I was so happy I was holding back tears,” Morgan to The Dodo.

After all the paperwork was completed, Drove, now renamed Samson (Sammy for short!) had the best wake up call ever! His parents were ready to take him home. . .

After all the paperwork was completed, Drove, now renamed Samson (Sammy for short!) had the best wake up call ever! His parents were ready to take him home.

A shelter staff member recalled the adorable moment saying, “He’s just sleeping so sweetly with no idea he’s going to be going home soon!”

“Since the first night we brought him home, he hates to leave our side,” Morgan said. “If my husband or I get up to grab some water, or leave the room for a second, he follows us to make sure we are not leaving.”

Source: ilovemydogsomuch.tv

---------

10 Common Dog Health Problems

Some health problems are specific to certain breeds, such as breathing complications for flat-faced dogs. But several other canine health issues can affect any dog. Here are 10 typical health conditions you need to watch out for in your four-legged best friend:

Top 10 Common Dog Health Problems

Skin Problems

One of the most obvious signs that your dog has a skin condition is itching. Other symptoms that may suggest that your dog has a skin problem include rashes, redness, dry skin, lumps, bumps, skin sores, dandruff, and hair loss.

Ear Diseases

Approximately 20 percent of dogs suffer from ear disease. It’s particularly common in breeds with floppy ears like cocker spaniels and basset hounds. It’s common to see wax buildup or discharge in their ear canal. But others may experience pain, itchiness, redness, swelling, and crusting in the ears.

Urinary Tract Infections

Simply known as UTI, this condition can make it uncomfortable for your beloved companion to pass urine. Signs of urinary tract infection include drinking water more than usual and passing urine more often than usual. Your dog may also only pass a small amount or lose bladder control. Additionally, you may see blood in their urine or notice a strong smell to it.

Vomiting

There are countless reasons why your pet may throw up. You don’t need to visit the vet each time your dog vomits. But it’s also not something you can just ignore. Don’t try to guess. If the vomiting persists or occurs with other symptoms like diarrhea or lethargy, you need to rush to the vet. It could be a sign of severe health problems, such as poisoning or gastrointestinal blockage.

Diarrhea

This symptom may occur on its own or be accompanied by vomiting. Its potential causes are similar to vomiting. One or two episodes of diarrhea may not be a pet emergency. But recurring diarrhea can result in dehydration.

Parasites

At some point in their lives, your pet may have to deal with discomfort due to internal or external parasites. Symptoms of parasites generally vary, depending on a few factors. These include the kind of parasite that has plagued your pet, where it lives, and how severe its infestation is.

Dental Issues

Like us, your dog can develop canine dental diseases due to high levels of plaque buildup. Several signs indicate that your pet may have dental disease. These include difficulty eating, bleeding of the gums or teeth, loose teeth, and bad breath.

Obesity

Nearly 30 percent of the general dog population is considered obese. Several factors contribute to a pet’s risk. These include age, genetic predisposition, lack of exercise, and overfeeding, among others.

Arthritis

This joint problem can restrict your dog’s mobility. Bring Fido to the vet if you see your dog slow down or limp before and after walks. Other signs include licking or chewing on tender areas and behavioral changes.

Poisoning

Symptoms of dog poisoning vary widely, depending on the kind of toxin a pet has been exposed to. The signs can range from vomiting to drooling, breathing difficulties, seizures, or worse, coma. Some of the most common poisonous substances are human foods like chocolates, grapes, raisins, onions, and caffeine. Other known culprits are human medications, household cleaning products, pesticides, and some plants.