Shortleash
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episode 168

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Did you know?

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🐇 Rabbit Back Feet

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🐮 Beef Trachea

🦬 Bison Scapula

🦃 Turkey Meatballs

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Wisconsin Bill Targets Fake Service Dogs

A new bill in Wisconsin aims to crack down on people misrepresenting pets as service dogs. The proposal would align the state’s definition with federal law, recognizing only dogs (and sometimes miniature horses) as service animals. Emotional support animals would face tighter rules too — landlords could require a prescription from a licensed professional before allowing them in rentals. Advocates say fake service dogs undermine the credibility and safety of real, task-trained dogs. A 2022 survey found nearly 93% of service dog users had encountered “fake or uncontrolled” dogs.

Florida’s Largest Animal Shelter on the Way

Orange County, Florida has approved a $49 million plan to build what will be the largest animal shelter in Florida. Scheduled to open in 2027, the 123,000-square-foot facility will house over 460 animals — with dogs on the first floor and cats upstairs. The design prioritizes comfort, disease control, and Fear Free Shelter principles to give pets a healthier, less stressful environment. Officials say the project reflects the community’s long-term commitment to animal welfare and will replace the county’s current shelter.

Johnny Depp’s Dog in Trouble Abroad

Johnny Depp’s rescue bull mastiff, Bourbon, reportedly escaped during a countryside walk in East Sussex, England that resulted in the death of two neighboring sheep. Depp wasn’t home at the time, but has since hired a professional trainer and added extra safety measures. The farmer involved called the incident “serious,” while sources say Depp was distressed by what happened. It’s not the first time his dogs have stirred headlines — back in 2015, his terriers Boo and Pistol were nearly euthanized in Australia over missing quarantine paperwork.

Pennsylvania May Give Pets a Say in Divorce

The Pennsylvania House just passed a bill that would change how pets are treated in divorce cases. Instead of being divided like furniture, companion animals would be recognized as cherished family members. Judges would consider factors like who provides daily care, vet visits, and financial support when deciding custody . The bill also ensures service animals stay with the person (or child) who relies on them. If it becomes law, Pennsylvania pets could soon have their best interests considered in court — a big shift from property to family.

Brave Bulldog Thrives With 3 Legs

Meet Sig, an American Bulldog who was shot and left for dead in South Florida. Thanks to a quick rescue by Space Coast Frenchie Rescue and emergency surgery at Eau Gallie Veterinary Center, Sig’s life was saved — even though vets had to amputate his shattered leg. Now, he’s zooming around on three legs, playing with kids, other dogs, and even turtles! Sig will soon be up for adoption, proving that resilience (and a little help from good humans) can change everything.

Arizona Enacts “Bite and Run” Law

Starting this week, Arizona dog owners must share their contact information if their pet bites someone or they’ll risk a misdemeanor. The new “Bite and Run Law” closes a loophole in previous rules, where owners only had to report the bite to animal control but didn’t need to identify themselves to victims. Officials say the law will help hold owners accountable, ensure medical follow-up, and improve reporting of dog bites across the state.

Lost Dog Found, Emotional Reunion in Oregon

A hiker in Umpqua Hot Springs, Oregon, turned hero after spotting a lost dog deep in the woods. Jason Hawkins, a backpacker from Colorado, spent over an hour gaining the pup’s trust and even used a tripod as a makeshift leash to guide him back. Thanks to the tag on the dog’s collar, Hawkins was able to contact the owner which lead to a tearful reunion in the parking lot. The owner hugged her dog and burst into happy tears, grateful her pet was safe after wandering off for hours.

🎥 LIVE with Solutions Pet Products! 🥛

We sat down with Solutions Pet Products to unpack the latest fight over fresh feeding. From raw milk regulations to the double standard that lets kibble slide, we covered what these changes could mean for your dog’s bowl.

💻 Missed it? Catch the replay here!

You’ll hear practical tips for keeping meals safe and nourishing — plus how fresh food advocates are pushing back and shaping the future of canine wellness.

🎟️ Catch Solutions Pet Products at the 2025 Feed Real Summit!

Dog news, minus the nonsense.

Shortleash is very boring for non-dog people, or people without dogs.

Latest: episode 168