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Animal rescuers are a special kind of people. They put the welfare of animals in need first and foremost. Viktor Larkhill is known for his big heart and unique rescues. He prides himself on never turning an animal away.
We are so honored to bring you this story of a resilient dog who needed a second chance. This is Betsy’s story.
Source: Viktor Larkhill/Youtube
Betsy’s callous owner only wanted one thing from her and that was for her to fight. But that was not in her nature. She was gentle and loving. So instead, she was used as a bait dog.
By the time she was rescued, her injuries were so severe, that the medical team was unsure if she’d make it. She needed extensive treatment and because she had so many wounds, infection was their greatest fear.
Source: Viktor Larkhill/Youtube
Through her pain, Betsy still hung on. She wanted to live. And that in itself was a miracle. Despite being used and abused, she wanted to live and to thrive.
Maybe she knew it was possible to have a good life. Dogs are quite intuitive.
Source: Viktor Larkhill/Youtube
The brave dog required months of treatment and eight surgeries. She faced every day like the warrior she is. Just as the video says, Betsy never lost hope.
And as she began to heal, she also opened her heart to humans. In the past, people were cruel but now she saw that the new people around her were nothing like the monsters from her past.
Her heart was opening and that would eventually lead her to a better life.
Source: Viktor Larkhill/Youtube
Everyone who met Betsy was amazed by her courage. She touched so many lives by her grace and her ability to forgive. Then, once she was medically cleared, a family came forward wanting to adopt Betsy. They offered her a beautiful life with a doggy sibling and a wonderful yard she could play in.
Source: Viktor Larkhill/Youtube
Her new family takes her on amazing adventures. There’s a stream nearby and she loves to paw at the fish. Her new best friends are her human brothers and they LOVE to hang out with her and give her all the love she could ever want. Her tail wags say it all!
Source: Viktor Larkhill/Youtube
The monsters from her past only wanted her to fight, but Betsy wanted to love. She knew that was her purpose and now she can give her family as much love as she wants.
Source: Viktor Larkhill/Youtube
Betsy’s story is proof that despite a painful past full of violence, it is possible to overcome and still be a wonderful family pet.
Pit Bulls face more discrimination than any other dog breed. They are sadly the most prevalent in shelters because of their reputation.
Source: Viktor Larkhill/Youtube
Betsy isn’t the only Pit Bull that has overcome her past and has made a wonderful family member.
Please share her story and the video posted below. Let’s do our part to help dogs like Betsy find families to love them.
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A friend of mine has a beautiful Dalmatian. Friendly, energetic and lovable, she was a perfect family pet… but she wasn’t the smartest pooch on the planet. See, she knew how to go through the pet door out into the garden, but she had no clue how to get back inside. It never occurred to her that the flap could swing both ways. So she would sit outside and howl until my friend would open the door.
Repeated demonstrations of the dual movement of the flap had no effect; it just did not compute. The dog breeds on this list, however, probably don’t have that problem. They’re widely considered to be among the cleverest canines in the world. Take a look and see if you agree.
1. German Shepherd
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No surprise here. German Shepherds are the world’s best police dogs, military dogs, and some have even been movie stars (remember Rin Tin Tin?). Brave, loyal, smart and strong, they’re the total package.
2. Beagle
Also on the list of the best family-friendly dogs in the world, the Beagle has an incredible nose that lets them sniff out just about anything. Born detectives, they’re not the most trainable pets, but they are smart. And hey, nobody ever accused Snoopy of being dumb.
3. Golden Retriever
A popular choice for assistance dogs for their easy temperament, natural intelligence and loyalty, Golden Retrievers are natural guides and also serve as great rescue dogs. Active and fun to be around, they’re wonderful family pets.
4. Border Collie
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Border Collies are considered by many to be the geniuses of the dog world. Expert herders, laser-focused (they’re known for their intense stare), and incredibly agile to boot, they’re workaholics and excellent athletes. Just don’t expect to keep one cooped up in an apartment.
5. Poodle
Did you know poodles were originally hunting dogs? They respond very well to training and are quick to learn tricks. So don’t let the fluffy looks and styled mane fool you! These dogs are among the smart canines around. Plus, they’re among the best dogs in the world for those who suffer allergies.
6. Belgian Malinois
A terrific military dog, the Malinois is a natural herder, tracker and worker. Smart, trainable and protective, these dogs require an owner who knows what he or she is doing. In addition to the military, Malinois are often recruited as guard dogs and police dogs as well.
7. Papillon
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Named for their butterfly-shaped ears, papillons are small, cute and pretty smart. They’re considered the smartest of the toy dog breed, with intelligence levels comparable to the über-smart border collie. They’re alert and focused pets, and loyal and lovable: an ideal friend for he family.
8. Doberman
Sadly, Dobermans are known more for their ferocity than their smarts, but these are considered among the most intelligent dogs in the world, as well as one of the most effective guard dogs around. They’re outstanding students known to be affectionate and obedient.
9. Bloodhound
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Don’t let the wrinkles and dopey expression fool you! Bloodhounds have the keenest of noses, and are often used for trailing (so much so that their evidence can be used in court against you!). These are loving but strong-willed dogs, and are often used on search and rescue missions.
10. Australian Cattle Dog
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You need a smart, determined and energetic dog to control unruly cows. And that’s just what the Australian Cattle Dog, or ACD, does. They’re intelligent enough to herd these much larger creatures, and while they need their independence and wide open spaces, they’re eager workers who know how to get the job done.
Did we miss your brainy dog on this list? If so, write in and let us know about it!
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