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Dog Was Cruelly Abandoned, Now He Travels The World After Being Rescued
A dog found in a sealed box on the side of the road at the height of summer has gone on to have an incredible life, thanks to his foster carer and eventual adopter.
Elko the Jack Russell terrier mix has been to more than 20 countries, after his foster carer, William Atek, 28, knew he couldn't give up the pup, and decided to adopt him.
Atek's partner, Heather Borngesser, 30, told Newsweek Elko was found abandoned in a sealed box on July 4, 2022, and ended up in Atek's care as a foster.
"William fell in love with him and decided to adopt him," Borngesser explained—and when Atek moved from California to Michigan, he realized "Elko did really well on the plane."
"William started to plan a trip to Thailand and couldn't imagine leaving Elko or doing the trip alone, so he planned it out and took Elko to Thailand in March 2023. I eventually met him and Elko in Thailand and we began traveling for the next year," she said.
The couple have since set up a TikTok account documenting Elko's travels, @awayonearth, showcasing the pup's trip around the world: together, they've been to France, Turkey, Switzerland, Portugal, Austria, Italy, the United Kingdom, Thailand, Mexico and much more.
Elko has been around the world since being adopted by seasoned traveler William Atek. Elko has been around the world since being adopted by seasoned traveler William Atek. TikTok @awayonearth"Traveling with Elko makes it so much more fun and meaningful, leaving him behind just isn't an option," Borngesser said, but admitted it "has its challenges."
"We often visit vets or government agencies in other countries, pay pet fees and do a lot of research on laws and policies of countries and airlines," she said.
"We also have to find alternative routes to places. If Elko isn't allowed in [the] cabin with us on the plane, for example, we take overnight ferries that allow dogs to make sure he's always safe and with us."
The couple have traveled with Elko extensively within the European Union, which allows pets to travel with humans from non-EU countries as long as the animal has been microchipped, vaccinated against rabies and undergone a rabies antibody titration test, had treatment against the Echinococcus multilocularis tapeworm, and has a valid EU animal health certificate, according to official EU website Your Europe.
One video shared to Borngesser and Atek's TikTok account on April 15 shows Elko preparing for yet another trip, as his owner carries him through airport security.
The pup seems relaxed and happy in Atek's arms, taking it all in his stride as his owner undergoes checks, as words over the video described the scene: "POV: You see a well-behaved dog going through airport security, with 20 countries under his toe beans."
Together, Atek, Borngesser and Elko have been to Thailand, Europe, Mexico and more. Together, Atek, Borngesser and Elko have been to Thailand, Europe, Mexico and more. TikTok @awayonearthWatched more than 78,000 times, TikTok users flocked to the comments, one writing they were "happy your dog is having a great life."
"Thank you for giving him a wonderful life," another said, as another agreed: "Love that you take him to travel with you."
One called Elko "so cute," as another declared: "I love a well-traveled culture woofie."
Borngesser told Newsweek Elko "does pretty good on all modes of travel."
"He has his travel bag that he loves, it's always his safe space and as long as we are calm he is calm," she said.
"Traveling the world with your dog is the best feeling—he loves the new smells and sites and hikes. We just all love being together and it's been an amazing experience. We are excited to keep moving and seeing more of the world with Elko."
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.Com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup
The 6 Best Dog Subscription Boxes For Toys And Treats In 2025
The best dog subscription boxes give you and your pup the chance to discover new toys and treats. These curated boxes feature items selected for your dog's unique needs, whether they're a super chewer, large breed, or small in stature. Several brands offer subscriptions and will send boxes right to your door every month.
For this guide, I asked a professional dog trainer and a veterinarian how to choose the best dog toys and treats. Then, I put seven subscription box services to test with my 50-pound pit mix Lyla. The best overall dog subscription box is PupJoy. It offers customizable and pre-built boxes for both tough chewers and light gnawers. PupJoy's high-quality toys stood up to my aggressive chewer. The toys are also appropriate for smaller, gentler dogs.
Read more about how Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products.
Our top picks for the best dog subscription boxesBest overall: PupJoy
Best for chewers: Bullymake
Best themed: BarkBox
Best budget: PupBox
Best for a good cause: Rescue Box
Best for food sensitivities: Pooch Perks
Best overall PupJoy Variety BoxWith pre-built and customizable boxes, PupJoy is an excellent option with high-quality toys for light and heavy chewers.
PupJoy took the top spot with its variety and quality. You can choose from pre-built and customizable boxes for small, medium, and large dogs. Each box is packed with high-quality toys and treats, and there are pre-built boxes tailored to heavy chewers. You can expect to receive several types of toys, including stuffed and tug toys, rubber chews, balls, and puzzles.
I received a pre-built box containing a large duck tug toy and a squeaky bouncy ball. Lyla loved playing with both toys, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well they held up to her tough chewing and tugging. The treats were a hit as well, and she gobbled them up every time I offered them.
PupJoy boxes include high-quality toys and treats sourced from a variety of popular brands. Sophia Carlisle/Business InsiderWhile the packaged treats included nutrition information on their labels, the bully sticks lacked similar details, which is something I prefer to see with dog treats. Additionally, I wish there themed options, such as holiday or seasonal boxes.
Best for chewers Bullymake SubscriptionTough chewers will meet their match with this box that features the sturdiest toys around.
Bullymake is undoubtedly the best dog subscription box for aggressive chewers. Each box contains a mix of tug toys, treat-dispensing toys, and chew toys made from durable materials like ballistic nylon, nylon, rubber, and rope. In addition to exclusive Bullymake treats, you'll also occasionally find treats from other brands included in the box.
The toys were both versatile and durable, standing up to my strong-jawed pit mix who is determined to destroy all her toys. She couldn't break any of the Bullymake toys. The box included chew, tug, and puzzle toys that made for exceptionally varied play. Plus, the items followed an adorable Halloween theme, which made unpacking the box even more fun.
Super chewers will love this box full of extra-tough toys that even the strongest jaws can't crack. Sophia Carlisle/Business InsiderPotential subscribers should know that Bullymake is pricier than many toy subscriptions. Additionally, some boxes may contain hard nylon toys, but veterinarians advise against toys that cannot be indented with your fingernail. If you're considering giving your dog particularly hard toys, it's essential to consult with your vet to discuss the potential risk of teeth damage. You can also check out the best dog toys for aggressive chewers for other more safe, fun options.
Best themed BarkBox Classic BoxThis box's creative pop culture and seasonal themes will have you and your dog excited for every delivery.
As one of the original subscription boxes for dogs, BarkBox has built a strong reputation with its creative toy and treat selections, making it an excellent choice for most dogs. Each month, the toys are designed around specific themes, such as popular movies and TV shows, holidays, and seasons.
I appreciated that the toys in my box often served dual purposes, such as functioning as both a tug and puzzle toy. This allowed us to get more use out of toys that weren't very durable. The treats were also a hit with Lyla — the oatmeal and cheesy soft-baked biscuits earned a few tail wags every time I opened the packages.
The Maws and Paws Farm was my favorite of the themed boxes. The plush farm animals fit the theme nicely and were well-loved by Lyla. Sophia Carlisle/Business InsiderWith BarkBox, the spotlight is mainly on the toys. The boxes often contain the same treats, so you shouldn't expect to see a lot of variety. Given that the toys aren't very durable, BarkBox isn't the best choice for powerful chewers. However, the company has a Super Chewer Box, which you can read about in my full BarkBox review.
Best budget PupBox SubscriptionYou don't have to skimp on quality with this box filled with durable toys and tasty treats.
The best dog subscription boxes can be costly, but PupBox is a great option if you're looking to spend less but get more. My other picks, aside from BarkBox, cost anywhere from $2 to $22 more per month with a yearlong subscription, so you'll save at least $24 a year — and receive an extra accessory and training guide each month. Every box comes with five to seven items, including toys, treats, and an accessory like a bandana or leash. PupBox selects toys based on your dog's age, so puppies may receive teething toys, while boxes for adult dogs contain items like larger tug toys.
The toys I received in the Halloween-themed box were well-designed. The ball chew toy was sturdy and got Lyla excited, thanks to its squeaker. The cloth mummy held up to many intense tug sessions. In line with the spooky theme, I received a skeleton-print bandana. PupJoy includes a training card in every box, which is a nice touch with helpful tips for bonding with your dog.
PupBox is a budget-friendly dog subscription box option with the best deal on 12-month subscription plans. Sophia Carlisle/InsiderThe treat selection was average compared to other subscription boxes. The exclusive Full Moon Munchies were dry and a bit stale despite their airtight packaging.
Best for a good causeIf you want to treat your dog and contribute to a good cause while you do it, Rescue Box is the way to go. You can purchase this box at the Animal Rescue Site by Greater Good, a nonprofit organization that donates a portion of sales to various animal shelters. These proceeds go toward providing food and care for the animals at the shelters.
Lyla and I loved the toys in this box: We received two durable stuffed toys — a moose and a soda plush toy — that held up surprisingly well to her rough play style. The toys were also minimally stuffed, making cleanup a breeze when she inevitably tore them apart.
Rescue Box offers a mix of tug toys and meaty snacks while giving back to shelter animals. Sophia Carlisle/Business InsiderI'd like to have seen nutrition information included with all of the treats. While I ultimately felt comfortable giving them to Lyla, other pet parents may not feel the same way.
Best for food sensitivities Pooch Perks SubscriptionNot only can you customize this box for your dog's size and chew strength, but you can also request treats to accommodate any food sensitivities and allergies they may have.
Pet owners shopping for pups with food sensitivities and allergies may have difficulty finding the best dog subscription box, as many services don't offer this level of customization. That's where Pooch Perks comes in. This box provides an impressive array of customization options: You can choose durable or plush toys for your dog's box and request specific ingredients be included or excluded from treats. The boxes are tailored to your dog's size, and there is a wide range of prepaid subscription options.
Upon receiving Pooch Box, Lyla and I instantly liked the included treats. The brand does a great job of sourcing a wide variety of dog treats, and Lyla loved the beef jerky chews, biscuits, and specialty chicken jerky chew tucked in the box.
Pooch Perks will handpick the best treats for dogs with food sensitivities and allergies. Sophia Carlisle/Business InsiderI tested the plush toys box, and while they were popular with Lyla, they weren't the best I've seen. They were easy to damage when I simulated lighter play before handing them over to our super chewer. A few threads popped out of one of the toys when I scratched it with a dinner fork. However, the brand does offer a durable toy box for more aggressive pups.
What to look for in dog subscription boxesBefore buying a dog subscription box, there are a few factors to consider. Most boxes include toys and treats, but some are specifically designed for small or large breeds and may not be suitable for every pup. The experts I consulted also provided some advice on what to look for in a box for your dog.
Treats: Treats shouldn't make up more than 10% of your dog's diet, says Dr. Mondrian Contreras, veterinarian and owner of Carol Stream Animal Hospital. It's also best to slowly integrate subscription box treats into your dog's diet to ensure they don't have any adverse reactions, like an upset stomach. I also recommend treats with the ingredients and nutritional information printed on the label so you know exactly what you're feeding your dog.
Toys: Erin Askeland, a professional dog trainer and animal health and behavioral expert for Camp Bow Wow, says the best dog toys will differ for each pup, but generally, sturdier toys are better. She also prefers toys that lack additional parts, such as small sewn-on buttons and googly eyes that are easy to swallow.
My experts also advise against toys you can't indent with a fingernail, as they can damage a dog's teeth. For super chewers, durable rubber is a good option that can often withstand strong jaws, but smaller pups will have more trouble with these heavy-duty toys. Ideally, the best dog subscription boxes provide options for pups big and small, with appropriate toys for their size and chew strength.
Individual preferences: The best dog subscription box is the one that suits your pup's needs and preferences. Toys, especially, can be challenging to select. It's a good idea to start with a one-time box purchase before committing to a subscription. "Sometimes there's a little bit of trial and error involved," Askeland says.
How we tested the best dog subscription boxes Lyla plays tug with one of the plush toys from PupJoy. Sophia Carlisle/Business InsiderI tested seven popular dog subscription boxes that included both toys and treats. While a few brands sent us more than one box, I evaluated only one box from each service for this guide.
Quality and durability of toys: Before handing the toys over to my 50-pound super chewer, Lyla, I tested each one's durability with a fork to see how it would likely stand up to a smaller dog who chews less intensely. I also timed how long it took Lyla to destroy the toys. Since she chews so aggressively, boxes with toys that lasted a few days scored highly. Toys also scored points for tough materials like nylon mesh, which is longer-lasting than polyester fabric.
Toy safety: Veterinarians recommend avoiding exceptionally hard toys or items filled with small bits of plastic that can pose a choking hazard. For this reason, I gave extra points to toys I could indent with a fingernail and ones filled with soft stuffing instead of crinkle material. In my reviews, I've disclosed anytime toys didn't meet these standards.
Quality and safety of treats: Treats with transparent nutrition and ingredient information scored highly, while treats with little to no information did not perform well in my evaluation. While I also considered my dog's treat preferences, I gave more weight to treats clearly labeled with nutrition information.
Variety: The boxes I recommend include something for every dog. Boxes with a variety of toys, such as tug toys, balls or squeaky toys, and puzzle or treat-dispensing toys, scored well in my testing. I also evaluated treat variety. Because most boxes contained a similar mix of biscuits and small meaty bites, treats factored into my evaluation less.
Price: I compared each box's contents to similar products sold at large pet retailers. I compared the per-box price points of single, six-month, and 12-month subscription plans to a month of toy and treat purchases at the retailers. I also noted how long these toys and treats lasted compared to what I usually buy for my dog. Boxes that didn't offer better value were scored lower.
Packaging: I deducted points for boxes with excessive packaging. This included individually wrapped toys and treats, oversized plastic product tags, and filling such as tissue paper.
Giving back and sustainability: I gave bonus points to boxes with verifiable ties to shelters or sustainability initiatives.
Theme: For themed boxes, I evaluated whether the theme was cohesive among the toys and treats.
Dog subscription box FAQs Are dog box subscriptions worth it?It depends. One of the best dog subscription boxes could be a perfect fit for your pup, depending on their preferences, but because most boxes are pre-built, it might be hard to get exactly what your dog likes. If you shop for toys and treats yourself, you may be more likely to find toys they love rather than gambling on a box. However, the subscription boxes I tested were all solid options, and my dog enjoyed all the treats and toys in her boxes. For me, these boxes are more than worth it.
Which dog subscription is the best?The best dog subscription box contains interactive, safe toys that encourage you to play with your pup. These toys may be treat-dispensing puzzles, durable tug toys, or simple plushies, but they should be free of small, easy-to-swallow pieces and very hard plastic. Askeland says that playtime with your dog is essential, and while you may not need to actively play with something like a puzzle toy, making time for your dog each day is good for both of you. "Even if you can do 5 to 10 minutes of play a day with you actually physically playing with them, that's just a great thing to do for them, for their brains, and a nice break for you, too," she says.
Is there a dog subscription box for multiple dogs?If you have a household with more than one dog, I recommend purchasing multiple boxes to prevent competition over toys and treats. But if your dogs happily share their toys and treats, one box may be suitable.
At The Overseas Box Office, It Has Hit The $34.17 Million Mark.
Dog Man North America Box Office: Set To Cross $100M(Photo Credit –Instagram) Dog Man by Universal and Dreamworks is progressing towards a major milestone at the box office. It has surpassed a Disney feature in the United States. The film has surpassed Encanto's entire collection at the North American box office despite losing 500+ theatres and facing the Disney tentpole movie Snow White. Keep scrolling for the deets.
Directed by Peter Hastings, the movie features an impressive voice cast comprising Pete Davidson, Lil Rel Howery, Isla Fisher, Lucas Hopkins Calderon, and Ricky Gervais. The director provides vocal effects for the title character. It is loosely based on the first, third, and seventh Dog Man books. It is a spin-off and story within the story of Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie and the second film in the Captain Underpants franchise.
The animated feature has 80% approval from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, and the audience gave it 83%. Dog Man was made on an estimated budget of $40 million. According to Luiz Fernando's report, Dog Man still earns solid numbers on its 9th three-day weekend. The movie collected $850K this weekend, experiencing a decline of 43.4% last weekend. The film lost another harsh 695 theatres on Friday and faces Snow White and other biggies and new releases.
The report also stated that the animated movie surpassed the US haul of Encanto. The film was released in 2021, produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios, and directed by Jared Bush. The Disney feature collected $96.09 million in its domestic run. In addition, the film collected $165.1 million overseas, and the worldwide collection is $261.28 million. Dog Man has surpassed Encanto and is on track to cross the $100 million mark, which might be the last and only major milestone in its domestic run.
The movie has hit the $97.25 million cume in the United States and will soon surpass The Bad Guy's $97.3 million cume in North America. It is eyeing a $98 million to $100 million run in the United States. At the overseas box office, it has hit the $34.17 million mark, therefore taking the global cume to the $131.42 million mark.
Dog Man by Dreamworks animation was released in the cinemas on January 31.
Note: Box office numbers are based on estimates and various sources. Numbers have not been independently verified by Koimoi.
Stay tuned to Koimoi for more box-office stories & updates!
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