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Celebrating Sparky (Formerly Known as Guard Dog)
This collection celebrates the journey of Sparky, the formerly chained pup once known as "Guard Dog." Explore artwork, gifts, and the bestselling book featuring his story, which reminds us of the power of hope, friendship, and compassion.
SEE SPARKY GIFTS
From Guard Dog to Sparky: Breaking the Chain, One Dog at a Time
More than three decades ago, a pup named "Guard Dog" appeared in the MUTTS comic strip. Originally intended to serve as a sort of gruff villain, this chained dog soon revealed himself to be a tragic character, destined to represent a deeper story of resilience and hope. Over time, Guard Dog became a powerful champion for real-life chained dogs, highlighting the cruelty of tethering and the need for advocacy and rescue.
In late 2023, Guard Dog was finally freed (and adopted by his best human friend Doozy) in a seven-week storyline that captured the hearts of readers around the world. He was also given a new name: Sparky.
Our Sparky Collection features artwork from the now-cherished storyline, Patrick McDonnell's nationally bestselling book Breaking the Chain: The Guard Dog Story, and gifts that celebrate the joy of second chances.
The Guard Dog Story: Comic Strips
Swipe to see Sparky's seven-week-long freedom story, just as it appeared in newspapers and online.
MORE SPARKY STRIPS
A National Bestseller!
Breaking the Chain:
The Guard Dog Story
This book features the seven-week-long tale of Guard Dog’s unchaining and eventual adoption, an illustrated history of Guard Dog (written by Patrick), real-life uplifting rescue stories, testimonials, and empowering information from voices in the animal welfare community.
Includes a preface by Patrick and introductions from Sidewalk Angels co-founders Marisol and Rob Thomas.
Gifts Inspired by Sparky (Guard Dog)
More Words About Sparky and Real-Life Guard Dogs
The story of Guard Dog has played an important role in raising awareness about the cruelty of tethering. Sparky has garnered attention and praise from animal welfare leaders, and — most importantly — inspired countless MUTTS readers to become involved in helping animals in their own communities.
"As an animal lover, animal rights advocate, and co-founder and President of Sidewalk Angels Foundation, Guard Dog's story has touched my heart greatly. I've followed this beautiful cartoon dog's storyline for years, waiting for the moment that he is free and finds the love he so deserves. It may seem silly to feel so much for this adorable cartoon dog, but I do, because he represents so many animals in the real world who suffer the same life, knowing no love and having no freedom. Guard Dog's story is a powerful one. One that needs to be heard. One that needs to end."
Marisol Thomas, Co-Founder of Sidewalk Angels
"We are dealing with chained dogs every single day of the year and it’s all through America, so people have to be made to sympathize, understand, relate. We visit thousands of 'Guard Dogs' every month, and they each one have desires, personalities, and needs, all of which are chronically ignored by the very people they depend on for everything."
Ingrid Newkirk, President & Co-Founder of PETA
"We’ve followed Guard Dog’s longing for a warm, safe place for years now, and are so happy to see him get what all dogs deserve. Dogs are pack animals, and beyond the basics of shelter, food and water, dogs need play time and companionship. In other words, like all of us, they need love."
Kitty Block, President & CEO of Humane World for Animals
"Guard Dog represents resilience and love — the true nature of animals. Even though he has been tethered it hasn’t stopped him from seeking and giving love."
Katy Hansen, ACC of NYC, Director of Marketing & Communications
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Love All Animals
Explore our "Love All Animals" collection, inspired by our love for all beings.
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Gifts for Book Lovers
Discover more books by Patrick, and browse gifts inspired by the stories we love.
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