Back in 1996, Jodi was raising a 4-week-old Boxer named Bosley. The wee puppy suffered from a cleft palate and developed respiratory complications due to the condition.
Bosley died to aspiration pneumonia soon after and there was nothing Jodi could do about it.
The heartbroken woman always felt like she failed her puppy, but her trauma came to the forefront again in 2006.
Source: Save The Clefts Rescue/Facebook
In 2006, Jodi met Graci, another cleft Boxer puppy, and she immediately panicked about her well-being.
But when she consulted with a vet about Graci’s situation, she realized that technology has made significant progress in the past decade, and that cleft puppies have a fair chance at survival now!
As it turns out, cleft puppies can have long and fulfilling lives, considering they receive customized care in the first few months of their lives.
Along with a corrective surgery as adults, these dogs can live pain-free and spread joy and love like they’re supposed to!
So Graci received her treatment and went on to live till a ripe old age – and this set Jodi on a mission to rescue others like her!
Source: Save The Clefts Rescue/Facebook
Jodi, who is a realtor by profession, went on to establish “Save The Clefts Rescue”, a rescue that focuses on saving cleft lip/palate puppies, and other special needs puppies.
The rescue has made a difference in the lives of many puppies who would normally be euthanized. From birth care to prepping them up for adoptions, this rescue does it all!
Source: Save The Clefts Rescue/Facebook
Today, Jodi tirelessly works toward raising awareness and advocating for the lives of “despised” cleft puppies.
She hopes that people see they are just normal, loving dogs, and not “defects” who need to be euthanized.
We are so proud of Jodi and we wish her good luck on her noble mission!
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10 of the Smartest Dogs in the World:
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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