HBHR Adoption Update

While the number of adoptions this year was lower than the last few years, we are very grateful that these 98 Beagles found their forever homes. We will continue to explore new ways to find loving forever homes for our Beagles. If you have any recommendations, please let us know.

If you are just starting to receive this newsletter, it means you recently adopted a Beagle — congratulations! We hope you enjoy it, and if you have any comments or questions, we would love to hear from you at info@houstonbeaglerescue.org.

Spotlight on the Beagles

Some beagles have more than their share of troubles. Besides being homeless, poor Harry, a two-year-old stray, was found with a severe skin infection. He probably had the condition for a while with no medical interventions. By the time he came to HBHR, he really looked sad. After medical treatments, special baths, and lots of good nutrition, he has blossomed into the good-looking beagle boy he was always supposed to be. This little guy is super sweet and makes little mewing sounds when getting pets! He loves attention and has good house manners — though, like most beagles, he will get into things that are not secure!

Unfortunately, the underlying cause of his skin issues is probably food allergies. He is currently on Natural Balance Plant-Powered food and is doing well. He will need an adoptive family prepared to provide the care and nutrition he needs. He will be ready for adoption soon — let us know if you'd like to give this sweet boy the home he deserves!

Poor Harry when found

Harry likes his baths  |  Harry looking cute!

Harry's fur coat looks much better now!

Spotlight on Our Volunteers

Johana and her husband Enrique Hartjen first adopted from HBHR in 2016 when they welcomed eight-year-old Matilda to their family. They gave Matilda seven wonderful years before having to say goodbye. They then fostered a puppy found in the summer of 2024 and adopted the little girl despite having no hound in her DNA. They are currently fostering DB, who has severe allergies and requires daily medical attention to keep his skin from breaking down — they've already renamed him Watson, and we know he will never leave!

Johana also volunteers weekly at the Beagle Bungalow, helping with yardwork and beagle room cleanup, and playing with the Bungalow beagles to develop their social skills for adoption. She and Enrique help wrangle beagles at Meet & Greets, and even took a couple of hound mixes through HBHR training classes last spring! Their current pack are Josie the beagle, Sophia the super mutt, and DB. Thank you, Johana and Enrique, for all you do for the beagles and HBHR!

Johana at M&G  |  Completion of training class  |  Providing baths at the Bungalow

Johana with her pack

Beagle 101: What is Reverse Sneezing?

Many beagles are prone to reverse sneezing. The beagle will start inhaling in quick, jerky spasms that look like gasps — stretching their neck out and inhaling over and over again. It can be scary the first time you experience this, but you can relax, as it is usually not serious.

A reverse sneeze is exactly what the name suggests: a sudden spasm where the dog has short, rapid bursts of nasal breathing. Unlike a regular sneeze, the dog isn't expelling air out of the nose — instead, they suck air into their nostrils. Experts aren't certain what causes it, but it seems to be more common in dogs with longer snouts.

Some experts believe dogs reverse sneeze to clear irritants from the back of their throat or sinuses. Common particles like dust, pollen, or smoke can get into sensitive nasal tissue and trigger these spasms. It's not usually serious, and it isn't contagious.

In most cases, dogs don't need treatment. Episodes are short with no known long-term effects. A few techniques that may help:

• Gently blowing in your dog's face
• Briefly covering and uncovering their nostrils
• Gently petting the dog or softly rubbing their neck to keep them calm and encourage swallowing
• Bringing the dog into fresher air

When to see your vet:

If your dog has a sudden increase in reverse sneezing episodes or other breathing issues, consult your vet. They may have a condition causing throat and sinus irritation, such as:

• Collapsing trachea
• Foreign bodies in the nasal passages or mouth
• Nasal growths such as polyps or tumors
• Upper respiratory tract infection

Upcoming Events & Merchandise

HBHR T-Shirts — Show your love of beagles and support HBHR! Shirts are available for a $20 donation (proceeds go toward the care and feeding of the beagles). We will have them at events and at The Beagle Bungalow. To have one shipped, make a $25 donation to cover shipping and email info@houstonbeaglerescue.org with your size (medium, large, or X-large) and mailing address. Pay online via the donate button at houstonbeaglerescue.org.

Before we go, a Beagle Smile…