Fundraiser Started For Duluth Area Dog Critically Injured From Porcupine Encounter
Woman Has Best Response To Pug Abandoned At Boyfriend's Work—'Welcome Home'
A California woman had the perfect response after learning a pug had been dumped by his owner at her boyfriend's place of work.
Approximately 3.1 million dogs enter animal shelters in the U.S. Every year, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Of that number, around 2 million end up being adopted while roughly 710,000 are returned to their owners.
Given his own unique circumstances, the latter always seemed unlikely for Bentley the pug. "I don't know anything about his life before," Stephanie, who lives in Los Angeles with her boyfriend, told Newsweek. "Some random lady just left him at my boyfriend's work and never came back."
In most instances, Bentley would have likely been brought to his local dog shelter in the hope that he might find a new forever home.
But what Bentley could never have anticipated was that he'd already found one. "My partner and I have always wanted a pug but we never thought buying would be a good idea," Stephanie said. "I was in my last week of college before graduating and my partner called me with this news."
Though Bentley might well have found someone to take him home at the shelter, the fact is that some dogs struggle to find a new owner and, in some instances, end up euthanized. Around 390,000 dogs are euthanized in the U.S. Every year.
The idea of Bentley going through something like that was too much for Stephanie to handle. "I just knew that if someone called the shelter they were probably going to 'put him to sleep' if no one adopted him since he's an older dog," she said.
"At the time I was thinking about me almost being done with school, being able to have more free time to give him the love and attention he needed, and finally have a pug of our own."
Bentley's previous owner abandoned him without explanation. Fortunately, he quickly found a new forever home. Bentley's previous owner abandoned him without explanation. Fortunately, he quickly found a new forever home. TikTok/aniee.XoSo, after some discussion with her partner, it was decided that he would bring Bentley home, and a new chapter in the pooch's life and theirs would begin.
It's a chapter they are all enjoying so far. "He's brought nothing but happiness in our home, I really believe he was a blessing sent from God," Stephanie said. Bentley has certainly been making himself at home, with his new human companions already falling in love with their pug's many adorable quirks.
"He's a homebody for sure," Stephanie said. "Loves to go on little walks and enjoy the breeze but doesn't like to be out too much as he gets real tired and starts dragging his feet. When he's home he loves to take naps and play with his toys and also loves watching movies with us."
Stephanie took to TikTok to share a clip of Bentley's story with the video posted under the handle anie.Xo alongside a caption telling their new pet pup: "Welcome home."
Many of those watching the footage of Bentley were left confused and angry at why he was abandoned in the first place. "Why would someone abandon a pug?" one user asked with another commenting: "He looks so sad. He understands he was abandoned."
There was also praise for Stephanie and her partner for giving Bentley a new home to call his own. "You are amazing," one user wrote with another adding: "Thank you for taking in that little baby."
Stephanie has been blown away by the response to the video. "I never thought he would receive the amount of love and attention he has been receiving and this is all new to me," she said.
However, she's keen to maintain their privacy and is not seeking help. "I just posted the video because I was happy to finally be a pug mom and most importantly be able to give him another chance of having a loving home," she said. "My heart couldn't bear that someone could abandon a dog randomly somewhere."
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Doug The Pug Is Already In Love And 'Pug Piling' With His New Rescue Dog Sister Dory (Exclusive)
Doug the Pug is sharing the spotlight now and is happy to do it.
The internet-famous canine — who has gone on to start a foundation, a holistic dog care company, and a film career — recently took on the new role of brother to a rescue pug named Dory.
Earlier this year, Doug's pet parents, Leslie Mosier and Rob Chianelli, began thinking about getting a canine friend for their 12-year-old pug to bring a little extra joy to their family.
"Rob, was diagnosed with MS [multiple sclerosis] back in September, and it rocked our family. It was a really tough winter and just an adjustment. Through all of that, we realized we were ready to add some happiness to our lives," Mosier tells PEOPLE.
The couple knew Doug was ready too, after watching the pug quickly befriend a dog the family was pet-sitting, Birdie the Boston terrier. Mosier and Chianelli also knew they wanted to adopt a dog from a rescue and "use our platform to show what good you can do," Mosier says.
Doug's dog mom adds that she started following "a bunch of pug rescues on Instagram" this year, "just putting it out there, like when I see the right one, I'll know."
In May, Mosier, Chianelli, and Doug had that moment when they spotted an adoptable pug on Tiny Paws Pug Rescue's Instagram.
Dory the rescue pug.Leslie Mosier and Rob Chianelli
"I'm telling you, the moment I saw her picture, it stopped me in my tracks because I thought it was an old picture of Doug," Mosier says of seeing Dory's photo for the first time.
The family contacted the rescue and Tiny Paws put them in touch with Dory's foster family. Doug and his pet parents learned that Tiny Paws rescued Dory after she was found dumped in a field in California after recently having a litter of puppies.
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"It's just horrific," Mosier says of the treatment Dory endured before her rescue. After learning more about the pug, estimated to be a year old, Mosier and Chianelli knew they wanted to give Dory "a good and safe home."
After Tiny Paws approved the adoption, the founder of Tiny Paws Pug Rescue flew from San Francisco to Doug's home in Nashville to drop Dory off.
From left: Doug the Pug, Leslie Mosier, Dory the Pug, and Rob Chianelli.Leslie Mosier and Rob Chianelli
After officially meeting her in person, the whole family fell even more in love with Dory. On May 23, Doug shared the news he welcomed a rescue sister on social media with his over 18 million followers, and his fans quickly became enamored with Dory, too.
"Doug's followers have asked for years if we'll get him a sibling. So out of the blue, to just be like, 'Here's his sibling,' everyone is so excited," Mosier says of the reaction.
Dory has seamlessly slipped into the role of sister to a famous dog. Several days after her adoption, Dory accompanied Doug on a meet-and-greet with musical artist G Flip.
Doug the Pug (left) and Dory napping together.Leslie Mosier and Rob Chianelli
"She did exactly what Doug would've done in those situations. She was so chill. She walked right up to people and got in their laps," Mosier says of Dory's first brush with fame. "They were sound-checking drums in the beginning and didn't care."
"We were joking about it because, in her first few days with us, she already met a rock star," she adds.
Mosier and Chianelli feel fortunate to be able to give Dory a life full of exciting and fulfilling firsts.
Doug and Dory on a walk.Leslie Mosier and Rob Chianelli
"It's her first time home, somewhere where she's not leaving. I swear she knows. It's honestly a spiritual experience to watch because of how many coincidences there were leading up to this and how much we needed her in this tough time, and she needed us. It feels like the perfect match," Mosier says, adding that "every single day," she and Rob "look at each other and say, 'I'm so happy.'"
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It's hard not to feel joy when watching Dory and Doug interact. Even though the dogs have only known each other for a few days, they are already "pug piling," a pug community term for when the dogs "lay on top of each other."
Doug also enjoys having Dory's company when he barks at the UPS delivery person, follows the family chickens around the backyard, and kisses his pet parents.
The family is excited to promote pet adoption and animal rescue with Dory as a poster child for the fantastic pets available through rescues and shelters.
How Viral Dog Doug The Pug's Health Scare Sparked Creation Of Pet CBD Line: 'They Get Their Spirit Back'
Doug The Pug & His Humans
Courtesy of Nonipup"Every dog owner has the goal of increased longevity with their dogs," says Leslie Mosier, displaying the passion of a devoted pet parent. This sentiment is at the heart of why she, alongside her partner Rob Chianelli, launched Nonipup, a brand born from necessity and nurtured through personal challenges and triumphs.
Leslie's journey into the pet wellness industry was precipitated by Doug the Pug's severe health scare. "I then realized I had to work on my dog's own prevention and lifestyle as I was personally responsible for it," she explains.
Witnessing Doug's health issues firsthand transformed her perspective on pet care, mirroring her own health struggles with endometriosis and her husband's battle with multiple sclerosis. "We had to 'clean up' our home," Leslie explains, highlighting the revelation they had about harmful ingredients found both in human products and those meant for their canine companions. This epiphany led to Nonipup, a testament to their commitment to quality, safety and the well-being of pets.
Doug The Pug's CBD PredilectionThe introduction of CBD into Nonipup's product line was a natural progression, driven by an acknowledgment of its therapeutic benefits. "CBD and other beneficial cannabinoids offer so many benefits to our pets," Leslie notes. She elaborates on its effectiveness in alleviating issues such as joint pain, mobility problems and anxiety, particularly among aging dogs. Ensuring the highest standards for these products, Nonipup employs a rigorous formulation process. Ian Pedersen, the company's director of medical hemp CBD research, brings more than 24 years of experience in the hemp and cannabis industries. "The amount of time, research and forethought put into formulating Nonipup CBD products were the keys to allowing us to bring such an impactful product to the pet community," Leslie says.
This rigorous development is further supported by Rita Hogan, a top canine herbalist, who formulated some of Nonipup's salves and products. Her extensive knowledge and expertise have been instrumental in creating effective and safe wellness solutions for pets.
Doug & Nonipup
Swak PhotographyIan's expertise ensures that every Nonipup product not only adheres to industry benchmarks but sets new standards. "With an unwavering focus on delivering only the best organic Non-GMO formulas, we have been able to develop incredibly effective and sustainable alternative supports for pets," Leslie explains. The products undergo multiple steps of extraction and testing, including High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), to ensure consistency and purity. This meticulous approach guarantees that every batch is free from contaminants and meets the highest safety standards.
The global pet care market is projected to reach $241 billion by 2026, with a growing segment dedicated to natural wellness products like CBD. "The demand is incredibly high for holistic dog products that are safe and effective," Leslie observes. As cancer rates rise among dogs, pet owners are increasingly seeking trustworthy, natural alternatives to traditional pharmaceuticals.
Forbes'I Chose Weed Over Drugs': Tiffany Haddish Calls For Cannabis Legalization For Women's Health, Talks Berner CollabByYet, Leslie and her team are navigating the complex regulatory landscape surrounding CBD products with a focus on education and transparency. "With the implementation of the Agricultural Innovation Act of 2019 known as the Hemp Act, it has allowed for the deregulation of the hemp plant and its extracts across the nation," Leslie explains. This legislative groundwork has been crucial in ensuring that Nonipup's products are both legal and beneficial. Beyond compliance, Nonipup is committed to setting industry standards that prioritize pet wellness over profit.
Leading The Charge On Pet Wellness EducationNonipup's commitment to education extends beyond its products. The team actively works to challenge the stigma associated with cannabis products for pets by highlighting the safe and beneficial aspects of CBD. "We continue to educate health professionals and organizations across the country," Leslie says. This educational drive is vital in transforming perceptions and enhancing the acceptance of cannabis in pet wellness.
The company also leverages the power of social media, sharing educational content and engaging with both celebrities and everyday pet owners to build trust and credibility. Doug the Pug's vast social media following (more than 1 billion views on YouTube, 5.9 million TikTok followers, 5.8 million Facebook followers, 3.8 million Instagram followers and 2.7 million X/Twitter followers) significantly boosts Nonipup's brand recognition and consumer trust.
What's more, the team's dedication to education is evident in its comprehensive approach to informing pet owners. The company sends a newsletter with weekly health tips and plans to expand its educational initiatives by collaborating with veterinary professionals, CBD experts like Ian Pedersen and animal behaviorists. This commitment helps the team address one of the significant challenges in the industry: building awareness and understanding about the benefits of cannabis-based products in pet care.
Leslie emphasizes the importance of these collaborations, particularly with veterinarians. "Ian Pedersen has been educating hundreds of veterinary professionals through his educational lectures across the country," she says. This joint effort ensures that Nonipup's products are not only effective but also trusted by professionals in the field. By working closely with health experts, Nonipup strengthens the integrity of its formulations and fosters trust among pet owners.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of Nonipup's journey has been the feedback from pet owners. Leslie shares a touching story: "A pet owner reached out to tell us that after starting their dog on our CBD oil, the dog's mysterious nightly spasms stopped. They were so relieved they could avoid the high costs and stress of further medical tests."
ForbesMeet The Weed Content Creators Redefining Cannabis Culture In Latin AmericaByLeslie beams with pride as she recounts the success stories. "Our customers often tell us they see a difference not just in their pets' physical health, but in their demeanor. It's like they get their spirit back," she voices. This positive feedback has been overwhelming, with many attributing their pets' renewed vitality to Nonipup's range. From resolving chronic skin issues with its Boop Butter to enhancing mobility with its CBD oil, the results speak volumes.
Challenging The StigmaLeslie is actively working to help people overcome the stigma associated with cannabis products for pets. She emphasizes the safe and beneficial aspects of CBD, supported by studies and expert collaborations. "Our initial studies and success cases with our research team began with humans, which gave us a great baseline understanding for the benefits of CBD," she explains. This foundational knowledge has been instrumental in addressing skepticism and demonstrating the efficacy of CBD for pets.
Doug & Nonipup
Courtesy of NonipupBy isolating conditions that CBD can support, Nonipup has been able to share its findings widely with the pet community. "We are committed to leading the charge on CBD and cannabinoid research for both pets and pet parents," Leslie says. This commitment to research and education is crucial in changing perceptions and fostering acceptance of cannabis in pet wellness.
The role of celebrity pets like Doug the Pug in shaping pet care trends and consumer behaviors cannot be understated. Leveraging Doug's popularity helps promote trusted products and drive positive change in the pet wellness industry.
Nonipup's proactive approach to navigating the regulatory landscape and addressing the stigma surrounding cannabis products highlights its dedication to advancing pet wellness. As the team continues to innovate and educate, Nonipup is setting a precedent for transparency and quality in the industry. The journey of Nonipup is not just about selling products; it's about advocating for a shift in how pet health is managed, emphasizing prevention and natural remedies over reactionary measures.
Innovating For Tomorrow: Nonipup's Vision For The FutureLeslie outlines Nonipup's vision to seamlessly blend pet wellness with cannabis. Its mission is to continue developing high-quality products for both pets and pet parents, promoting health and wellness through education and innovation.
This strategy appeals to a growing number of pet owners who are increasingly conscious of the ingredients in their pets' products. The demand for natural and holistic pet care solutions has driven Nonipup to expand its offerings, including upcoming products like wrinkle wipes, gut-soothing supplements and anti-allergy tinctures.
Navigating the complexities of the CBD market, Nonipup is committed to industry leadership, which is vital in an environment where misinformation can easily influence consumer choices.
ForbesBlink-182's Travis Barker: 'Cannabis Helps Me Find Balance In The Chaos Of My Life'ByLeslie highlights the broader impact of Nonipup in the pet care industry, focusing on their dedication to quality and education. "We've seen a shift in how people approach pet care. They're more discerning about what they buy and more proactive about prevention," she observes.
Collaborations with veterinarians and pet care professionals ensure Nonipup's products align with the latest in animal health science. These partnerships are crucial for maintaining the integrity of their formulations and driving responsible innovation. "Working closely with health experts not only improves our products but also strengthens the trust our customers place in us," Leslie notes.
Looking ahead, Nonipup plans to expand its reach and continue to innovate. With new products on the horizon and plans to enter additional markets, the potential for growth is significant. Future ventures may include eco-friendly pet accessories and advanced nutritional supplements.
Through thoughtful innovation and a genuine commitment to pet health, Nonipup seeks to create more than a brand, it's intent is to spearhead a movement toward a future where pet wellness is prioritized and embraced as an integral part of family life. As Leslie and her team push the boundaries of pet care, Nonipup's journey continues to be a source of hope and inspiration for pet owners worldwide.
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