Crime Are backyard breeders behind the dumping of labradoodle dogs in Bellingham-area woods? The rising demand for specialty dogs like doodles has prompted a boom in backyard breeders. And that is also the reason 21 so-called designer dogs were found abandoned in the woods. Libby Denkmann Sarah Leibovitz
Arts & Life 8 loving ways to honor a pet's memory: Write an obit, grow a garden, dedicate a day How do you deal with the heartbreak of losing a beloved pet? Our audience shares creative and inspiring ways to process grief — and celebrate the lives of our animal companions. Malaka Gharib
Animals Wouldn't it be great if pets could talk? This might be the next best thing A voiceover artist adds hilarious voices to pet videos submitted by his fans on social media. Barry Gordemer
Health Study of dogs and their humans seeks to make life better for both It’s a dog’s life, they say. Daniel Promislow is curious about what makes them tick. Kim Malcolm John O'Brien
Arts & Life Seattle shelters are taking in cats from Maui. Here's how you can help Furry friends from Maui are looking for new homes in Seattle. Katie Campbell
National Petting other people's dogs, even briefly, can boost your health You don't even have to own one. Research shows just 5 to 20 minutes interacting with other people's pooches can reduce stress hormones and increase well-being. Maria Godoy
Health 5 tips to keep your pet safe — and comfortable — in extreme heat "If it's hot outside for you, it's most likely even hotter for your pet," one expert tells NPR. Here's how to protect your pet outdoors, keep them engaged inside and respond to signs of heat stroke. Rachel Treisman
Government Reminder from the city of Seattle: dogs aren't allowed on athletic fields KUOW’s Natalie Newcomb reports Natalie Akane Newcomb
National A lost dog treks 150 miles across Alaskan sea ice before he's reunited with his family Nanuq, a 1-year-old Australian shepherd, went missing last month while his family was visiting relatives. Except for a swollen leg, with bite marks from a seal or polar bear, Nanuq was in good health. The Associated Press
Health Can you catch a hidden virus from a dog kiss or a cat cuddle? What's the risk of contracting a virus from your Fido or Kitty? It's not a frivolous question, as one cat-owning virologist explains. And there's another question: Can you give a virus to your pet? Michaeleen Doucleff
