National Train Your Dog Awareness Month is an invitation to start—or restart—training at any age. You don’t need hours a day or advanced skills. Even a few minutes of focused practice can make a difference. Choose patience over pressure, progress over perfection, and connection over commands.

Walk Your Dog Awareness Month shines a spotlight on one of the most essential, and often underestimated, parts of responsible dog ownership: the daily walk. While it may seem routine, walking your dog plays a critical role in their physical health, mental well-being, behavior, and overall quality of life. It’s not just exercise; it’s enrichment, education, and connection all wrapped into one simple habit.

As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to think about what will make your dog’s Christmas extra special! We’ve created the ultimate wishlist, featuring four unique play styles that will delight your canine companion.

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for senior dogs. We recommend increasing vet visits to biannually to identify any health concerns early on. Early detection plays a critical role in managing age-related ailments. Discuss with your vet any signs that may indicate your dog is in pain or discomfort, and stay vigilant for subtle changes in their behavior.

This November, we observe National Pet Cancer Awareness Month. As dog guardians, we owe it to them to be informed, vigilant and proactive when it comes to cancer, the leading disease-related cause of death in dogs.

At Mutts and Misfits, our mission is to find loving forever homes for every rescue dog in our care, and we can't do it without the help of compassionate foster families. By opening your home, you provide a safe and nurturing environment for these dogs as we work tirelessly to match them with their perfect adopters. Fostering is not just a temporary arrangement; it’s a critical step in a dog's journey towards rehabilitation and a loving family.

A dog’s passing leaves an empty void you may not have been anticipating or could have ever fathomed. Those furry loves provided profound, unconditional love and companionship you may never have experienced as deeply with any human. Acknowledging the normality of these feelings of loss, allowing yourself to grieve, and finding support through others or memorial rituals can help in the healing process.

To recognize pain in your pet, watch for physical signs like limping, panting, and changes in posture, as well as behavioral changes such as hiding, increased aggression, or changes in appetite and grooming habits. Vocalizations like whining or meowing can also indicate pain, as can accidents in the house. If you notice any such signs, contact your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment, as these changes can signal serious underlying conditions.

Millions of animals are stuck in increasingly cramped shelters because their owners are struggling to pay rising vet bills and other expenses.

Rocky, an 11-year-old senior dog surrendered by his owner, became the 1,000th animal at the Animal Care Centers of New York City, which announced on July 18 that its three shelters stopped accepting dogs, cats, bunnies and other critters, except in emergencies.

Did you know that ADBF is not just about providing a safe playground for your dog, but we also operate a wonderful non-profit dog rescue? Introducing Mutts and Misfits, a heartfelt initiative that has been ten years in the making!