PiddleTails

Happy Birthday, Liberty!

2010-07-04T01:08:00.002-04:00

Liberty, a male Atlantic bottlenose dolphin, wears a hat and waves an American flag in honor of the Fourth of July at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo, California. Liberty, who was born on July 4, 1990, was named after his birth date, and this year turns 20 the same day the nation marks its 234rd year.

Source: ap

Hot Enough for Ya?

2010-07-02T00:15:00.001-04:00

Source: unknown

You Are Tooooo Cute!

2009-12-29T01:27:00.000-05:00

Source: faildogs.com

Pit Bull Sharky Adopts & Washes Baby Bunny!

2009-12-23T14:55:00.003-05:00

Source: youtube.com

VT Lawsuit Seeks ED Damages for Shot Dog

2009-12-20T01:47:00.003-05:00

Vermont's highest court is being asked to decide what a dog's love is worth. The Vermont Supreme Court on December 17, 2009 began hearing a case that started in July 2003, when Denis and Sarah Scheele, who were visiting relatives in Vermont, let their mixed-breed dog wander into Lewis Dustin's yard and he fatally shot it.

Now the Scheeles, of Annapolis, Maryland, are asking the court to carve out a new legal doctrine that a dog's owners can sue for emotional distress and loss of companionship, just like parents can when they lose children. "It's so important for people to really recognize the relationship between the families and their companion animals," said Sarah Scheele, 58, who attended Thursday's court hearing.

The Scheeles' attorney argued that a family dog is worth more than a piece of property, saying dogs "love you back." Under the current law, losing a dog is "treated the same way as the loss of an end table," David Putter said after the hearing. "That's not what the relationship between humans and dogs is anymore. They're a member of the family and when they're lost you can't just go out to the local store and buy a new one. That doesn't fix it."

The court isn't expected to make a ruling before spring.

Blythe has said Dustin never intended to kill the Scheeles' dog, Shadow, and "has always regretted that it happened." He said Dustin fired an air pellet rifle at the dog in hopes of scaring it off the lawn of his home in Northfield, a community of about 6,000 residents just south of Montpelier in the heart of the state's Green Mountains. The shot Dustin fired penetrated the dog's chest and severed an aorta, and the dog died on the way to a veterinarian's office. Dustin, 76, has said he was aiming at the dog's rear end. He did not immediately return a telephone call seeking comment Wednesday.

He pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of animal cruelty and was given a year probation. He also was ordered to perform 100 hours of community service and pay $4,000 in restitution to the Scheeles. But the Scheeles weren't done. Sarah Scheele gave up her work as a meeting planner and has devoted her time since the dog's death to advocating for animal welfare and caring for the six special-needs dogs — most of them abused in the past — the couple has adopted in recent years. Denis Scheele, 50, continues to work as a plumber.

The Scheeles filed a civil suit against Dustin, pressing their claim that Shadow was more than a piece of property and that they could not be compensated just with reimbursement of what they paid to adopt him from an animal shelter, the veterinary bill that resulted from the shooting and the cost of his cremation.

On a Web site devoted to Shadow's memory (http://www.justiceforshadow.com), the Scheele's wrote, "Every day without you running and playing and cuddling with us is more difficult than the day before. The loss of your presence in our every moment is unbelievably painful. Not a moment passes that you are not in our thoughts, our hearts and our prayers."

Source: ap

"Project Flying Chihuahua" Rescues CA Chis

2009-12-19T01:23:00.000-05:00

Chihuahuas have been flying out of California since other states learned about the glut of little dogs in the Golden State.

A group of 25 dogs has already arrived at the Humane Society for Greater Nashua in New Hampshire, thanks to "Grey's Anatomy" actress Katherine Heigl, Kinder4Rescue in Studio City and American Airlines. A group of 43 will leave for New Hampshire Monday or Tuesday, said Kathy Davis, interim general manager of Los Angeles Animal Services, who took part in a news conference Friday to announce Project Flying Chihuahua. They were supposed to leave Saturday morning, but bad weather in the east caused a delay, she said.

The Nashua shelter found homes for the first 25 and had a waiting list of 100 people, Davis said.

Heigl's foundation has paid the discounted airfare for all 68 dogs so far, she added, and new donors for more flights were being sought.

Virgin America will be flying a group of Chihuahuas to New York City from San Francisco on Tuesday, said Gail Buchwald, senior vice president overseeing the ASPCA adoption center in New York City. They will be processed and should be available for adoption on Dec. 29, she said. Buchwald said she didn't know how many to expect, but each dog will be escorted by a volunteer and Virgin will provide travel for both dogs and humans. The airline is also expected to offer a week of half price trips to passengers willing to escort an animal to New York.

Dozens of dogs have been sent by Oakland Animal Services to nearby states like Washington, Oregon and Arizona, but most of them were delivered by SUV, director Megan Webb said, because there wasn't enough money to fly the dogs to more distant states.

The Chihuahua crisis in California developed as Hollywood featured the dogs in movies like "Beverly Hills Chihuahua" and "Legally Blonde," they became constant companions to the rich and famous, backyard breeders saw a chance to make hundreds of dollars a dog and the recession forced some dog owners to abandon their pets. California shelters soon found that Chihuahuas made up 30 percent or more of their dog populations. Meanwhile, Buchwald said, there has long been a severe shortage of small dogs in the east.

In the last 12 months, animal shelters in the city of Los Angeles have taken in 4,700 Chihuahuas, 1,000 more than the 12 months before that. Los Angeles has over 300 Chihuahuas in its shelters now, Davis said, and they are taking in about 340 a month. "The majority of them are healthy. They do need some socialization. Some we're finding haven't been well treated in the homes they've been in. They need some TLC," Davis said. It would seem plenty of people in the east are ready and willing to deliver just that.

Source: ap

Faith, the Two-Legged Dog

2009-12-18T01:33:00.001-05:00

For several years, Jude Stringfellow and her Lab-chow mix have toured the country with a simple message: Faith walks.

Born without front legs to a junkyard dog around Christmas 2002, Faith the puppy was rejected and abused by her mother. She was rescued by Reuben Stringfellow, now an Army E-4 specialist, who had been asked to bury other puppies in the litter. Reuben turned Faith over to his mother, English professor Jude Stringfellow. At first the family had to carry Faith to keep her off her chest and chin. But with peanut butter and practice, Faith learned to walk on her two hind legs.

Today Faith is a brisk, upright walker. When she runs, every so often she adds a hop or skip to her step, but she stumbles less often than most humans. She takes vitamins and joint supplements, and vets have declared her very healthy, Stringfellow said.

Since her first step on March 22, 2003, Faith has done the talk show circuit, gone on tour with Ozzy Osbourne and been named an honorary Army sergeant. Jude Stringfellow has become a motivational speaker and written two books. Next year, the two are moving from Ardmore, Okla., to Chicago where they plan to write a third called "Faith Walks." They get more than 200 letters and e-mails a day, run a Web site and make dozens of appearances every year, including stops at veterans' hospitals across the country to cheer injured soldiers.

That mission is special for Stringfellow, whose son left Iraq in September and is stationed at Fort Wainwright in Alaska. He is scheduled to get out of the Army and head home on Jan. 1.

A sense of hope is especially important for Faith's visits to Army bases. Last weekend she headed to Washington state, where she met with as many as 5,000 soldiers at McChord Air Force Base and Fort Lewis. Some of the soldiers were headed to war, some were coming back. "She just walks around barking and laughing and excited to see them all," Jude Stringfellow said. "There is a lot of crying, pointing and surprise. From those who have lost friends or limbs, there can be silence. Some will shake my hand and thank me, some will pat her on the head. There is a lot of quiet, heartfelt, really deep emotion."

Faith never fails to bring a smile to a soldier's face, said Patrick Mcghee, general manager at Fort Lewis. "To see the children interact with Faith is simply priceless," he said.

But Faith's most emotional reunion — with Reuben Stringfellow, who rescued her 7 years ago this Christmas — will have to wait for January. He's already gotten Faith a birthday present: a peanut butter cookie with her name on it.

Source: ap

Australia Proposes: "Chain Your Dog, Go To Jail"

2009-12-17T07:25:00.002-05:00

Walk your dog every day or go to jail: that is the import of draft legislation that Australia's leading animal rights campaigner wants the government to adopt.

Hugh Wirth is one of four experts appointed to draw up a national code of Australian pet ownership. He is head of the Victoria state branch of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. If his guidelines are accepted and passed into law, owners would be obliged to take their dogs out to play or face prosecution and fines of up to 12,000 Australian dollars ($11,000 US dollars).

Magistrates could impose custodial sentences. Time in jail would likely be reserved for people "who chain their animals up or pen their animals for days and week and months at a time with absolutely no exercise," Wirth said.

Source: earthtimes.org

Homeless Chihuahuas Flooding CA Shelters

2009-12-16T01:19:00.000-05:00

They’re tiny, they’re cute and they’re besieging animal shelters from San Diego to Northern California.

The Chihuahua glut has become so severe that representatives from half a dozen San Francisco Bay Area shelters, surrounded by 50 yipping, shivering Chihuahuas, begged animal lovers today to help them find homes for the petite pooches.

In Los Angeles, only pit bulls outnumber Chihuahuas in the city’s shelters. At the Peninsula Humane Society in San Mateo, 60% of the dogs awaiting adoption are pure or mixed-breed Chihuahuas. At the San Francisco Animal Care and Control shelter, Chihuahuas are 30% of the canine population and rising. At the East Bay SPCA, it’s 50%.

“A few years ago, we joked that wouldn’t it be great if all these pit bulls were Chihuahuas,” said Allison Lindquist, executive director of the East Bay SPCA. “Now they are. This is what happened with pit bulls, Dobermans, German shepherds and other dogs that become popular through TV and movies.”

The pint-sized pups with outsize personalities became increasingly popular after Reese Witherspoon’s character in the 2001 movie “Legally Blonde” accessorized her Pepto Bismol-hued wardrobe with Bruiser as she plied the halls of Harvard. Paris Hilton’s Chihuahua, Tinkerbell, was a regular in all five seasons of “The Simple Life” and went on to publish a 2004 “memoir” called “The Tinkerbell Hilton Diaries.” And then came the 2008 comedy “Beverly Hills Chihuahua,” about little Chloe, who gets dognapped in Mexico and has to escape from an evil Doberman.

“People get enthralled with the movies and think dogs have a certain type of personality,” said Kathy Davis, interim general manager of the Los Angeles Animal Services agency.

“They bring the dog home and they don’t spend sufficient time to train and socialize the animal, and unfortunately the Chihuahua doesn’t become the star it was in the movie,” she said. “The dazzle wears off, and the shelters end up with the pets.”

From Dec. 1, 2008, to Nov. 30, 2009, Los Angeles shelters took in 4,741 Chihuahuas, up from 3,779 the previous year. There is definitely a problem with overpopulation. ”Our adoption rates are also up on Chihuahuas, but unfortunately not sufficiently enough to handle the huge intake,” Davis said.

Source: latimes.com

Tiny Officer Has Big Job!

2009-12-15T01:40:00.004-05:00

Every morning, Midge stretches her 11-in. frame, puts on her special work shirt emblazoned with a star designating her as an official police dog, and prepares for a full day working as a narcotics-detecting K-9.

The Guinness World Record holder for "smallest dog used for law enforcement," the 8-lb. Chihuahua/rat terrier mix works closely with her partner, Sheriff Dan McClelland at the Geauga County Police Department in Ohio.

When he first got an e-mail from Guinness inquiring about Midge, McClelland says, "Frankly I stepped out into the hallway to see if anyone was giggling." Fortunately the message turned out to be authentic, and the pooch has held the record for nearly three years. "It's not real macho to be seen with a dog that looks like it belongs to Paris Hilton," laughs McClelland, who began looking for a smaller police dog after noting the incidence of damage to cars that were searched by unwieldy German shepherds.

Since earning her certification in narcotics three years ago, the 4-year-old Midge has bragging rights to two arrests. "A dog doesn't get credit for an arrest unless they make a detection that we didn't know was there," explains McClelland. "In one case, Midgey searched a burglar's getaway car and alerted us to the seat cushions." Once she finds the drugs, her reward is simple — her partner throws a ball for her and gives her a big hug!

When she's not giving lessons to students on substance abuse and ridding the world of bad guys, Midge plays with McClelland at home, sometimes nipping on to his pant legs. And at night, she goes to sleep buried beneath blankets year-round. Sounds like a fitting end to a hard day's work!

Source: peoplepets.com

Hail to the Chief (BellyRubber)!

2009-12-12T01:50:00.000-05:00

Source: Pete Souza/White House

Woman Wins 2 Year Dog Custody Battle

2009-12-09T01:26:00.000-05:00

When Peggy Bunker broke up with her fiancé, Richard Higgs, in May 2007, she left their five-acre mansion in Bedminster, New Jersey with her boys: two West Highland terriers named Barkley and Willis. After accepting a new job, Bunker moved the dogs with her to Denver that August, and was blindsided a month later when Higgs filed a lawsuit in New Jersey to get back the animals — valued at $1,800 each.

For Bunker, co-anchor of Fox's Good Day Colorado, it was the start of a two-year legal battle that cost her more than $25,000, not counting the expense of making 23 trips to New Jersey for court appearances and visitations every five weeks with her dogs. Higgs, 42, a Wall Street bank executive, and Bunker, 37, are among what the Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF) says are a growing number of couples battling over pet custody. "It was expensive," acknowledges Bunker, who turned down Higgs's offer of $100,000 to walk away from the dogs, "but I would not have been able to live with myself if I had just turned and walked away. It was not an option."

On Nov. 20, 2009, following an eight-day trial in October, a New Jersey judge ordered the dogs returned to Bunker. Higgs, who wasn't in court for the verdict, refused to comment on the case. Now Bunker and her husband of 18 months, CJ Hummel, 38, an investment banker who flew with their pets to Denver the next day, are re-bonding with Barkley, 6, and Willis, 5. "We were driving home from the airport with the dogs in the backseat," says Bunker, "and CJ said, 'Look we're a family.' It made me cry. We are a family."

Source: peoplepets.com

HSUS launches "Puppy Mill TipLine"

2009-12-08T01:07:00.001-05:00

To help end the misery associated with large-scale dog breeding operations known as "puppy mills," The Humane Society of the United States has launched a national telephone tip line and encourages callers to report suspected cruelty or unlawful activities involving such breeding facilities.

The hotline, 1-877-MILL-TIP, is available to anyone with information of a possible crime involving puppy mills - but particularly welcomes information from those with "insider" knowledge, or from law enforcement officials who might be aware of such operations.

"Puppy mills are a national scourge," said Justin Scally, manager of The HSUS' Wilde Puppy Mill Task Force. "Hundreds of thousands of dogs across the country are trapped in constant confinement their entire lives, producing puppiesto profit the puppy mill owner. This tip line will be a vital tool to help free these dogs from a life of abuse."

The Wilde Puppy Mill Task Force investigates puppy mills and works with law enforcement, animal shelters and other agencies to stop abuse and to ensure enforcement of existing laws. The task force also provides expert guidance to local, state and federal agencies in the prosecution of animal abusers as it relates to the operation of puppy mills. Since its launch in June 2009, the Task Force has assisted in the rescue of more than 1,200 dogs and puppies from abusive situations at puppy mills.

Source: hsus.org

I'd Take You Home in an Instant....

2009-12-07T01:40:00.001-05:00

A stray dog pauses on a sand bank of the Yamuna River as the sun is seen rising over the Taj Mahal in India on November 18, 2009. The white-marble monument to love was built by the Mogul Emperor Shah Jahan between 1632 and 1654 for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The monument, a must-see for most tourists, hosts some 3 million visitors a year.

Source: ap/Gurinder Osan

Ski Yorkie

2009-12-06T18:02:00.003-05:00

A Yorkshire terrier is held by its owner during the annual "York Show 2009" dog contest in Moscow on December 6, 2009. The contest was for dogs who weighed less than 5 kg (11 lb) and was judged based on their grooming and costumes.

Source: reuters/alexander natruskin (Russia Animals Society)

Hope That Works!

2009-12-04T01:42:00.001-05:00

A pet dog in China is wearing a mask after local media reported on December 1, 2009 that two dogs were infected with H1N1 flu virus.

Source: apphoto

And the Winner Is.....

2009-12-02T07:34:00.000-05:00

Women stand with their Afghan Hound before going into the parade ring during the Crufts dog show in Birmingham, England on March 5, 2009.

Source: reuters/Darren Staples

Surprised Kitty!

2009-12-01T01:17:00.000-05:00

Source: youtube.com

Save Pete the Moose!

2009-11-30T15:23:00.007-05:00

The story of Pete the Moose and his human friend, David, residing in Vermont, is a unique tale. Pete the Moose was attacked by dogs and mauled when he was about 5 days old. Vermont Fish and Wildlife told the people who found Pete to let him die. They couldn't bear to just leave him there. So, they took him to a kind man named David Lawrence, and he nursed Pete back to health.

In saving his life & caring for him over 14 months, Pete & David forged a special friendship. But as a result of this same closeness, Pete LOVES people, and so he does not have the normal fear of Man that he should. It would have been VERY dangerous for him to be released back into the wild. So David found an enclosed, 600-acre ranch in the area that is fenced in. The Game Reserve is owned by another nice man named Doug, and he generously provided Pete a place where he (ironically)could live a wild life safe from hunters. Pete lives there along with about 120 other deer and moose that have also gotten thru the "State Designed and Approved" fence.

Enter the Bureaucrats... Now the Vermont Department of Fish & Wildlife wants to destroy Pete & the other animals there. Part of Pete's diet comes from from animal feed. Because of this, Vermont State Officials claim animals there could contract something called "Chronic Wasting Disease", a brain ailment that affects deer-like animals, and which can be spread animal-to-animal or via feed. And so the Dept of F&W would like to "remove" the deer and moose that now inhabit this property. And by "remove", they mean "kill". They have known about us all along, but they didn't care to try and help out a long time ago. Instead, they sat back and did nothing until now...

WE NEED YOUR HELP TO SAVE PETE! We DO NOT want Pete destroyed! We DO NOT want Pete in a zoo! And we want the Governor of Vermont to put whatever promises he makes about what will happen to Pete to be put in writing! Click on SavePeteTheMoose.org to sign a petition in support of Pete The Moose.

Source: savepetethemoose.org

Look At That (Doggie) Smile!

2009-11-30T15:02:00.004-05:00

Janie Killion holds her English Bull Terrier, "Zulu", as they rest between judging rounds at the National Dog Show hosted by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia on November 14, 2009.

Source: AP Photo / Bradley C. Bower

More Pets to Receive Gifts This Holiday Season

2009-11-28T01:50:00.001-05:00

Christmas could prove to be a holiday bonanza for cats and dogs across the U.S.

The poll found that six in 10 of those who own only dogs planned on shopping for their pet for the holidays. Forty percent of those with only cats planned to pet shop.

An Associated Press-Petside.com poll suggests 52 percent of pet owners plan to buy their animals a holiday gift -- up from 43 percent last year. The bounce in pet gifts is expected despite the fact that fully 93 percent of Americans say they'll spend less overall or about the same as last year, according to a separate Associated Press-GfK poll.

Jessica Douglas, a spokeswoman for the PetSmart pet supply store chain, says plush holiday-themed toys are very popular, as are candy cane-shaped rawhide chews. Gifts shaped like bones are also in the mix.

Source: ap

Police Dogs On The Job in Papua, New Guinea

2009-11-27T01:30:00.001-05:00

It started raining “cats and dogs” and everyone scurried for refuge under a large make-shift tent.
I put on my coat to keep out the cold mountain air that descended abruptly with the deluge and joined the rest under the lean-to. After I was safely sheltered, I kneeled and rummaged through my rucksack to ensure the rain had not seeped through the fabric. I let out a sigh of relief as the interior of the sack was dry and my trade tools, a digital camera, voice recorder and mobile phone were dry as a bone.

But my relief was short-lived as when I looked up a menacing canine was heading directly towards me. I was about to both but a reassuring grin from the handler eased my fears.
Corporal Wass Kandan and his canine, named Max, are with the NCD Police Dog unit, I found out moments later. The location was the Nogoli market near the Oil Search ridge camp at Hides, about 4000m above sea level. The occasion was the Licence-Based Benefits Sharing Agreement forums in the oil and gas rich Hela and Southern Highlands provinces. Hides is South of the Hela capital, Tari, where it’s much, much colder. Another canine, named Talis, and his partner Constable Reeves Mota, were also deployed to provide support to the strong Mobile Squad Units. The primary mission for the Dog Unit was crowd control and if the need arose to pursue any troublemakers. This mission, according to Cpl Kandan is the first major deployment for the dog unit, and if the precedent is set, similar missions will ensue in future.

In PNG, police dogs do not get the attention in fighting crime and riot control but they play and can contribute immensely to police operations. Cpl Kandan is witness to that. He explained that Max is trained specifically to assist police officers during riots for crowd control and he is also ready to sniff out drugs and explosives and also chase and apprehend suspects. “Max is well behaved and disciplined, but can become instantly aggressive upon my command,” Cpl Kandan said. Constable Reeves echoed similar sentiments. The dogs and their handlers are best friends.
According to the two policemen, once a dog and an officer become partners, it’s for life unless either canine or man retires.

I was touched to learn that the two policemen have been sleeping beside their dogs since coming into the area, because the dogs did not like the idea of sleeping in their kennel. Max is past his retirement age of five by two years. “He’s getting old to be on duty, but until the Police get new dogs, Max will be on call,” he said.

Cpl Kandan said he has been with the unit for close to eight years now and his duty very much relies on his partner Max. “Our dogs are an integral part of Police operations, should he be injured or die while serving the nation he will be accorded a proper funeral just like any officer,” his handler said. That is the respect that reflects the importance of police dogs.

When the canines retire both officers said they are ready to adopt them and take them home to settle into a life as a family pet. Indeed, dogs are a man’s best friend.

“Woof, woof,” Max agrees.

Source: thenational.com

Firefighter is a Hero to a Puppy

2009-11-26T19:44:00.003-05:00

As Tulsa Police Officer Jacob Johnston approached the scene of a traffic accident on the night of November 23, 2009, he heard whimpering coming from an ice chest along the side of the road.

Johnston found an abandoned puppy in an ice chest off the side of the road along 61st Street near U.S. 75. Firefighter David Merrill, who also responded to the accident, adopted the puppy on the spot.

Merrill said he already has one dog and three kids, who will be getting an early Christmas present. The dog will be named Lucky, Merrill said.

Source: tulsaworld.com

Piggie's Post-Humorous Revenge: Paula Deen Smacked by a Ham

2009-11-26T05:11:00.003-05:00

Celebrity chef Paula Deen got an unexpected serving of ham — across her face. The Food Network star was helping unload 25,000 pounds of donated meat for an Atlanta food bank on November 22, 2009 when someone threw one of the hams like a football and accidentally smacked her.

Deen tells WGCL-TV: “I thought it busted my lip, but it didn’t.” Though smiles and laughter, Deen added: “I’m OK. It just knocked me for a little bit.”

She says she was unloading hams when she tossed one to a man, who then said “Back at ’ya.” Thinking he meant it only as a sentiment, she turned around to get another ham when the errant swine came at her. “He really meant, ’Back at ’ya.” ’

Later, she tweeted: “I haven’t met the ham that could stop me yet!”

Source: theledger.com

Baboons Raid Cars for Food

2009-11-25T05:48:00.000-05:00

Visitors to Cape Town, South Africa could find themselves robbed by a furry kind of felon: baboons. The cheeky primates have learned how to open car doors and jump through windows in pursuit of tasty sandwiches and snacks.

City officials are battling to control the increasingly aggressive troupes and there are fears the problem will only worsen with the influx of visitors to Cape Town during the World Cup next year.

On November 24, 2009, a group of 29 baboons raided four cars outside Simon's Town, a small coastal neighborhood. A baboon dubbed "Fred," the leader of the group (seen at top in photo) opened unlocked doors and jumped through windows to search for food.

There are about 420 baboons in 17 troupes that roam the city's outskirts, especially the popular scenic sites along the coast. Baboons are a protected species under South African legislation but their persistent pursuit of food has led to conflict with residents.

Source: ap

200,000 Animals Slaughtered in Hindu Festival

2009-11-24T18:56:00.002-05:00

Hindu devotees lined up outside a temple in southern Nepal on November 24, 2009 at the start of a two-day religious celebration involving the sacrificial slaughter of over 200,000+ animals. More than 200,000 buffaloes, goats, chickens and pigeons will be killed on November 24 and 25, 2009 at the temple in the jungles of Bara district, about 100 miles (160 kilometers) south of Katmandu. Protests have occurred in recent weeks in towns near the Gadhimai temple and in the capital Katmandu by animals rights activists and other religious groups; however, Hindu organizers said they would not halt the slaughter because it was a centuries-old tradition which occurs every five years. Participants believe sacrificing the animals for the Hindu goddess "Gadhimai" will end evil and bring prosperity.

Source: ap

Pet Airways "Operation Thanksgiving Day" Flies Plane Full of Rescue Pets for Free

2009-11-23T06:05:00.002-05:00

The first ever pet rescue airlift will take place this Thanksgiving Holiday with a flight from Pet Airways' Pet Lounge at Chicago's Midway Airport to the Pet Airways Pet Lounge in Farmingdale, New York. "Operation Thanksgiving Day Pet Flight to Freedom" will provide a plane load of pets with a free flight to a better life.

In conjunction with Best Friends Animal Society www.bestfriends.org, Pet Airways www.petairways.com is helping to place these currently homeless dogs with new families by providing free transportation to the New York area where they will be made available for adoption.

As part of its ongoing mission of working toward a time when there are No More Homeless Pets(TM), Best Friends collaborates with rescue and shelter organizations throughout the country to place needy pets in loving homes. One of the issues of rescuing large numbers of pets is getting them to new homes. Pet Airways is helping in this endeavor, by flying an entire planeload of rescued dogs to New York, where a local shelter has come forth to accept these pets to help them be adopted.

Pet Airways was created to provide a safe and comfortable alternative to flying pets in the cargo hold of planes. Pet Airways Pawsengers fly in the main cabin of the aircraft with a Pet Attendant watching over them at all times.

As part of Pet Airways' Corporate Responsibility Policy, Pet Airways provides space on our planes to help pets that need to be rescued. Thanksgiving is a great day to not only give our pets a hug for all the love that they give us, but to also help out some pets in need.

Follow the rescue and how the pets travel on the Pet Airways website. Pets are being driven to Chicago by Best Friends on Thanksgiving Day where they will have their Thanksgiving dinner at the Pet Airways Pet Lounge. After the dinner, pets will enjoy the love of lots of volunteers, will sleep happily that night, and board the Pet Airways Pet Flight to Freedom on Friday morning.

Source: petairways.com

Das Fuhrry

2009-11-20T06:32:00.000-05:00

Come On....You gotta laugh!

Credit: catsthatlooklikehitler.com

Antifreeze Will Kill Your Pet

2009-11-15T06:31:00.000-05:00

We all need a little tune up this time of year, and your car especially may be screaming for some antifreeze. But pet parents, take care around your dog or cat to make sure he doesn't lick this sweet-tasting poison from the driveway or garage floor.

According to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, thousands of pets are exposed to antifreeze each year. Used to protect cars from extreme temperatures, antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, a colorless and odorless alcohol known for its attractive taste. Even small amounts have deadly consequences—one teaspoon of ethylene glycol can be fatal to a 10-pound cat, while one to two tablespoons can kill a 10-pound dog.

"The symptoms of ingestion vary depending on how much time has passed and how much the animal has consumed," says ASPCA Director of Medicine, Dr. Louise Murray. "Initially the animal may act 'drunk,' wobbly and unsteady, and develop nausea and increased thirst. As time passes, there are signs of kidney failure, such as lack of appetite, vomiting, lethargy, and eventually failure to produce urine." The best chance for survival is initiating aggressive treatment within the first four to 12 hours of ingestion. Once signs of kidney problems develop, the likelihood for recovery is low.

Prevent your animal companions from coming into contact with antifreeze by storing it in a secure cabinet and monitoring cars to make sure radiator hoses aren't leaking. When flushing or refilling radiators, keep pets inside and immediately clean up any spills. So-called "pet safe" antifreeze products do exist, and they typically contain propylene glycol, which is less toxic than ethylene glycol but can still cause intoxication.

If you suspect your pet has ingested something poisonous, please contact your nearest 24-hour emergency vet or the ASPCA's 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435.

Credit: aspca.org

Man Broke Her in More Ways Than One

2009-11-14T19:54:00.003-05:00

A dog who survived being mercilessly thrown off a six-story Brooklyn roof this summer has been euthanized -- despite a barrage of impassioned pleas from animal-rights supporters.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said Oreo, a 1-year-old brown and white pit-bull mix, was put to death yesterday.

The ASPCA said it determined, after working for months to rehabilitate Oreo, that she was too dangerous ever to be placed in a home or even to live among other dogs again.

Oreo suffered two broken legs when she was flung off the roof of an apartment building in the Red Hook Houses in Brooklyn on June 18, 2009.

Fabian Henderson, 19, pleaded guilty to a felony count of animal cruelty. He is scheduled to be sentenced on December 1, 2009. Neither he nor his attorney could be reached for comment yesterday.

Source: nypost.com

A Doggy Summer!

2009-11-10T04:18:00.001-05:00

Source: youtube.com

Life Is Good!

2009-11-05T01:47:00.000-05:00

Source: carlinoworld.it

Visit Your Dog's Ancestral Home - Golden Retriever

2009-11-03T07:17:00.001-05:00

Origin: Tomich, Scotland

Story: In 1865, the avid hunter Lord Tweedmouth plucked the sole yellow puppy from a litter of black retrievers in Brighton, England. He named him Nous, brought him to his home, and bred him with Belle, a Tweed water spaniel. The union led to the large, good-natured golden retriever. In present-day Scotland, retrievers are usually pets and farm animals.

The trip: Travel four hours north of Edinburgh to Tomich, a well preserved 19th-century hamlet built by Lord Tweedmouth. Stop in at the Tomich Hotel, where the owners can direct you to Tweedmouth's deserted and roofless former home, Guisachan (goosh-e-can) Manor, which is roughly three miles away. Park next to the manor for a stroll. Gorgeous waterfalls can be found in the neighboring Glen Affric Nature Reserve (glenaffric.org). Consider the eight-bedroom Tomich Hotel for your stay. For train trips between London and Edinburgh, check the excursion rates on Raileasy (raileasy.co.uk). Some train lines allow dogs the size of golden retrievers to travel for free as long as they are leashed. Call National Rail for rules on a specific train line (011-44/845-748-4950).

Hot tip: U.S. dogs can enter the United Kingdom without quarantine as long as they're microchipped, vaccinated for rabies, and have had their blood tested. Owners must carry documents to prove all of the above, plus a bill of health from a vet that notes that your dog has been treated for ticks and tapeworms.

Credit: msnbc.com; Photo: dogslife.com.au

Halloween -- Not So Fun for Your Pet!

2009-10-30T17:31:00.003-04:00

Jack-o'-lanterns, trick-or-treaters, haunted houses and costume parties. Halloween is full of fun things for you and your family to enjoy, but it's one of those holidays that is enjoyed more by people than by pets.

Keep the following precautions in mind when preparing for the frightfully fun festivities and help ensure that everyone in your family—including your pet—has a safe Halloween.

Keep your pet in a quiet place, away from trick-or-treaters and other Halloween activities. You may know that the miniature monsters and goblins who come knocking on Halloween aren't real, but pets don't. Dogs and cats are creatures of habit and could become frightened or agitated by the unaccustomed sights and sounds of costumed visitors. In addition, frequently opened doors provide a perfect opportunity for escape, which can go unnoticed during all the commotion. Be sure all pets are wearing collars and ID tags in case of an accidental getaway.
Cats—black ones in particular—often fall victim to pranksters. Keep cats safely indoors.
Place live flame decorations like candles and jack-o'-lanterns out of your pet's reach. Curious critters risk being singed or burned by the flame—they could also easily knock over a candle or pumpkin and cause a fire.
Keep candy away from pets. All those sweets may taste great to critters, but candy, especially chocolate, can be toxic to pets. Candy wrappers can also be harmful if swallowed. Instead, tempt your pet with a few of his favorite treats.
Resist the urge to put your pet in a costume. You may think your pet looks adorable dressed as a princess, but most pets don't like the constraints of costumes. If you do decide to play dress-up, make sure the costume is safe for your pet and doesn't constrain her movement, hearing or ability to breathe. Check the costume for parts your pet could chew off and choke on and look for dangling pieces like flowing capes that could injure her.
Don't let the family dog accompany the kids on their trick-or-treat outing. Children may have a difficult time handling a pet during the festivities and your pooch could get loose, especially if your dog is spooked by the strange sights and sounds of trick-or-treaters.
Keep decorations that pets could chew on—like streamers and fake spider webs—and wires and cords from electric decorations out of reach. If pets chomp on Halloween decorations they could choke or become ill and, if they chew on electrical cords, they risk a potentially deadly electrical shock. Pets could also become tangled and injured by dangling cords or decorations.

Credit: hsus.org

Louisiana Coyotes Snatch Area Pets

2009-10-28T01:48:00.001-04:00

As his dog Baily dashed across the street one recent evening, Aaron Moreau of Louisiana flicked on his flashlight just in time to see the small terrier struggling in the jaws of what appeared to be a tall, lanky dog. Frightened by the flash of light, the intruder bolted toward a stand of cane that separates Moreau's Rigolets Estates neighborhood from Louisiana 433 southeast of Slidell. After momentarily and unsuccessfully trying to pull it through the weeds, the attacker dropped the small dog and ran off.

The attack was not an isolated incident, nor was it a matter of an overly aggressive neighborhood dog going after a weaker plaything. Coyotes have come to subdivisions of southeastern St. Tammany Parish (Louisiana).

Baily is recovering from deep bites to its back, and Moreau now walks his dogs with a gun on his hip. Other residents are taking their own precautions, or taking aggressive steps to eradicate the coyotes, as the animals have become more numerous and more bold. "I saw them walking Highway 90 a couple of times, " said Moreau, who also has lost two cats to the invading varmints. "I've heard a pack of pups, too." And Moreau and other residents said they've become increasingly frustrated as they have found there is little they can do about the wild packs.

Rigolets Estates and the nearby subdivision of Treasure Isle are tucked into the southeastern corner of St. Tammany Parish, a normally quiet refuge of large houses whose well-manicured lawns back up to fishing piers on Lake Pontchartrain or boat docks along canals that provide quick access to the lake. Outside the subdivisions, wild marshes dominate the landscape.

Though the area is filled with wildlife, residents first saw coyotes early this year, said Don Ducote, a resident of Treasure Isle. Initially residents didn't see the coyotes as a major problem. In fact, by ridding local canals of nutria, they seemed to be performing a sort of service. But as the nutria population dropped, residents began noticing that other wild animals such as ducks were becoming scarce. And then pets started to go missing.

The prevalence of the animals has inspired fear among residents, and not just for their animals. Ducote, whose two cats Minky and Pookie went missing earlier this year, said his wife is now afraid to walk through the neighborhood at night. About a dozen pets, mostly cats, have disappeared in the two subdivisions since the winter. While residents said it's possible not all the missing pets are the work of coyotes, they point to regular sightings of the animals and the evidence of their meals, including eviscerated cat carcasses, as signs that coyotes bear the brunt of the blame.

The bulk of the coyotes seem to be coming from a marshy area north of the subdivisions that is still filled with barren trees and withered weeds from the ravages of Hurricane Katrina. FEMA carved a path through the swamp after the storm to get to debris and appliances that had washed out from Rigolets Estates. On that path one night last week, Treasure Isle Homeowners Association President Lee Nugent and Moreau looked over a set of fresh coyote tracks, distinguishable from those of dogs by their compact, oblong shape. Though the area was quiet and virtually lifeless as they conducted their sunset walk, the tracks, as well as those of wild hogs, showed the dirt trail has become a highway for the animals.

Coyotes first came to the area in the 1970s after migrating east out of Texas, said Jimmy Stafford, region manager for the state Department of Wildlife and Fisheries' East Gulf Coastal Plain region and a biologist. "The occasional sighting of a coyote in my opinion is not a bad thing, " said Stafford, who lives in Washington Parish and works in St. Tammany Parish and Baton Rouge. "I've got coyotes around my house and bobcats and all kinds of neat critters and it's good to see them out there. It means you have a healthy ecosystem."

The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has not done studies to determine how many coyotes there are in St. Tammany Parish for years, but Stafford said anecdotal evidence suggests a relatively large population lives on the north shore. The animals are routinely spotted by hunters and residents and frequently turn up as roadkill along Interstate 12, though many motorists probably mistake the carcasses for those of dogs, he said.

Louisiana state law does allow hunters to shoot coyotes, but St. Tammany Parish also prohibits residents from firing weapons within 1,000 feet of a subdivision, creating a problem for those dealing with the animals in their neighborhoods.

Source: nola.com

Dog Show Tricks!

2009-10-26T05:56:00.001-04:00

Source: YouTube.com

Malta Animal Ambulance Makes A Difference

2009-10-26T01:44:00.000-04:00

Over 2,000 animals have been rescued by the animal ambulance since it began service in June 2009. The service, which is available 24 hours a day, is part of the increased government attention towards animal welfare. Other services offered, such as a free neutering service has also seen over 2,000 cases in an attempt to curb the amount of animals abandoned in Malta’s streets. Meanwhile, over 700 stray dogs have been rescued by NGOs such as Dog’s Trust Malta.

Speaking at an event in honour of World Animal Day, Minister for Rural Affairs George Pullicino addressed the problems of animal violence as well as the important impact of animals on the lives of their owners.

Members of the Guide Dog Foundation also gave talks regarding public awareness of guide dogs and their owners, giving advice both for pedestrians who may encounter them on the streets, as well as drivers who may observe them crossing the roads.

Since the increased importance placed upon animal welfare in the last year, the ALE has also been on call to respond to reported cases of animal cruelty. Another project scheduled for development is the Animal Welfare Centre which is currently being built in Ta’ Qali. The scope behind this project is that animals in the streets can be given medical care and attention in this centre.

Source: di-ve.com

Helping Your Pets Live Longer

2009-10-24T01:37:00.002-04:00

There was much excitement recently about Tizzie, a cat in Burnley, England, believed to have reached the age of 36, which put her in the running for the world's oldest cat title. The same report had a dog in Germany reaching 38. But before we could get into a tizzy over Tizzie, other reports surfaced pointing out that the cat’s veterinary records had been lost, making it impossible to confirm her age.

Still, even if these two animals are not nearly as old as claimed, there’s no doubt that today’s cats and dogs are living longer than ever. With advances in veterinary medicine, technological investigative diagnostic and treatment tools, plus highly specialized veterinarians, a pet can receive top-notch care equal to that of humans. Actually, it’s sometimes better.

Brian Voynick, owner of American Animal Hospital in Randolph (New Jersey), points out that when a person sees his doctor for a checkup, it usually means going somewhere else for blood work, X-rays, MRIs or dental work. Most vets, however, can perform those functions under one roof.“For example, many of us have our own digital X-rays, blood pressure monitoring, pulse oxymetry, our own blood tests and we perform laser surgery and dental work.” Kind of one-stop treatment for pets, you could safely say.

Medicines administered to pets mirror those given to humans, utilizing the same drugs in many instances. The pharmaceutical industry pops up with newer and better products every day. Keeping pace, today’s pet food industry products are far superior nutritionally, with an array of enticing holistic foods appearing on the scene all the time.

Our pets are living longer thanks to the combined efforts of veterinary medicine, pet products and pharmaceuticals. Remember when a “treat” for a pet was any kind of leftover or a product loaded with tenuous ingredients? Three of the best nutritious treats to come along are Yummy Tummies and Durango Chiplets, which come in various tantalizing flavors, and Furminator’s triangular treats actually inhibit shedding. Timber, my fussy husky, has pronounced all three delish.

While it’s still cause for celebration, it’s no longer inspires shock and awe when a cat reaches 21 like Voynick’s contented cat adopted at 7 weeks. Healthy for her age, no one has told Moonstruck that she’s past her prime. She may not chase after birds anymore, but she still enjoys watching them from her own perch on the couch overlooking a cluster of bird feeders through the window.

The dowager had a special visitor last week when a bear cub stopped by to enjoy Voynick’s array of bird feeders. Moonstruck calmly watched the 4-foot toddler and Voynick snapped a few humorous photos.

Voynick advocates preventive care stressing the importance of annual urinalysis for cats of any age. “We can pick up early signs of diabetes, kidney problems and urinary disease. Not many dogs reach their 20s, but the rule of thumb — or paw — is the smaller the dog, the longer the life. Years ago, large breeds seldom made it past 12.

Today the larger breeds are reaching 15 or more, and smaller canines are closing in on Moonstruck. Great Danes are the exception and seldom live beyond 7 or 8. In the cat kingdom, size really doesn’t matter that much in terms of longevity.

Source: nj.com

Canine Influenza is Real -- Protect Your Dog

2009-10-22T01:19:00.002-04:00

As the H1N1 virus tries to wiggle its way into as many of us as it can this flu season, there is another virus, H3N8, that is threatening dogs this year. H3N8, or Canine Influenza, is not contagious to humans, but for dogs it can be deadly. Fortunately, there is a new two-part vaccine available to safeguard pooches.

Canine Influenza was discovered in the United States as the cause of respiratory disease outbreaks involving thousands of greyhounds at race tracks in several states from 2003 to 2005. It has since spread to at least 30 states. Originally a disease that afflicts horses, the virus mutated about 40 years ago and began infecting dogs ever since. “It is highly contagious,” says Dr. Kimberly May of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Exposure to H3N8 is highest in kennels, shelters, pet stores, dog shows and other communal settings. Although dogs of any age, breed and health status are susceptible, puppies, old dogs, and dogs with pre-existing health issues are especially at risk. Veterinarians say that virtually all dogs that are exposed to the virus become infected. About 80 percent of them can show symptoms such as cough, sneezing, nasal discharge, and some ocular discharge. Coughs typically last two to three weeks. Twenty percent of dogs can become seriously ill, developing bronchopneumonia and secondary bacterial infections. Dogs with pneumonia have high fever, respiratory distress and in some cases severe hypoxia. If untreated, such conditions may lead to death.

It takes about 7-14 days for dogs to mount the initial antibody response to the H3N8 vaccine. About 2-4 weeks after the first $20 inoculation, a booster shot is given. The vaccine protects dogs for a year. Vets say that the shots may not prevent infection altogether, but efficacy trials have shown that the vaccine significantly reduces the severity and length of illness.

Source: foxnews.com

Americans Promote Rodeo Over Bullfighting in Spain

2009-10-20T04:25:00.002-04:00

For years, animal rights groups in Europe have tried to get Spain to ban bullfighting, an age-old tradition that results in the deaths of thousands of bulls every year. Now American promoters are offering rodeos as an alternative to the sport. Dozens of America's top rodeo cowboys have taken their show to Europe, and their tour starts at bullfighting rings in Spain.

In the municipal bullring in Guadalajara, a small city near Madrid, a bilingual emcee tries to fire up the crowd as "Miss Rodeos" waving the Stars and Stripes ride out on Harley-Davidsons. The cowboys rope, steer and ride broncos, as the high-decibel sound system shakes the arena's foundations. Crowds at the bullring normally watch in silence as matadors face down bulls in a fight to the death. This is something completely different — and a culture shock for many audience members.

"This is very odd," Josefina Palafox says. The older woman with the perfect hairdo sits primly, clutching a purse on her lap. She didn't plan to be here; she and a friend were just out for an evening stroll. "And we saw the commotion and decided to see what it was all about," she says. "It's very American. And we like it." Well, not quite. Her friend, Conchita Ruza, is not so keen. "I'll stick to the bullfights. They're a lot nicer. First of all, you don't have all this racket. Secondly, the bull is a beautiful animal. And lastly," she says, "I'm Spanish."

Outside the ring, there's been criticism of the rodeo. One commentator argued in El Mundo newspaper that rodeos in Spain are as culturally misplaced as bullfighting in the U.S. The rodeos celebrate a facet of Americana that European cultural snobs love to sneer at: the flag-waving, the country music, the cowboys in 10-gallon hats. Mike Beers, a world champion team roper from Oregon, says he thinks the rodeo will be a hit in Spain. Increasing numbers of people tell pollsters they feel queasy about bulls being killed in the ring.

"You know, they're used to seeing the bull. When they get done with him here, they drag him out on a sled," Beers says. "We rope the steer by the feet here. We get done with him, he jumps up and runs out of the arena. The crowd loves it."

Children in the crowd — more accustomed to shouting "ole!" — shout "yee-haw." Alba Perez, 10, says she loves animals and now prefers the rodeo because they do more "stuff." "And they don't kill the bull," she says.

The rodeo may have its origins in the American West at a time when it belonged to Spain. But this spectacle couldn't be more un-Spanish — and that's a big part of its appeal.

Source: npr.org

The 5 Stages of Grief

2009-10-19T20:08:00.001-04:00

We bring our dogs into our lives and homes, and cherish and love them. We spend hours talking to them, making them the non-judgmental repository of all our secret hopes and fears. We trust them implicitly and they never let us down. What more could we possibly want?

More time with them is the first thing that springs to mind. Our dogs have much shorter life spans than we do, so almost everyone has had to say goodbye to a beloved dog at some point in their lives. While it's not easy to say goodbye, knowing what to expect, and realizing that support is available should you need it will help you during your time of grief.

Most people pass through five stages of mourning, but each person experiences them at varying levels of intensity, for varying lengths of time, and sometimes in a different order. Some of the stages converge and overlap each other. However you experience the mourning, it's important to remember that your feelings are completely normal.

Denial - People enter the denial stage in an attempt to escape the painful reality of their dog's death. Sometimes you're certain that you heard your dog's tags jingle on his collar or you feel him next to you. Some people swear that their dog is wandering outside, especially people who do not see their dog's body after they've passed.

This denial is normal, a way to try and have everything remain the same, but if allowed to linger too long, you run a real chance of being overwhelmed by painful feelings of loss when you're not prepared for them.

Anger - Anger is, like denial, a way to focus the hurt and pain on something. Human nature compels us to find someone or something to blame when we are hurt or sad. It's difficult to accept that suffering is a part of life, so we look for a scapegoat to blame.

Our dogs can end up as the scapegoats because we're angry with them for leaving us. Anger can be directed at ourselves or toward a loved one, especially when we feel that the death could have been avoided. Your veterinarian is another convenient target for anger, because he euthanized your dog. Although anger is a normal step in the grief process, we have to get over it and remind ourselves that no one is at fault. Death is simply an unavoidable, and unhappy, fact of life.

Guilt - People often blame themselves for their dog's death, obsessively wondering if something could have been done to save their dog. Could they have fed them a better diet or given them more exercise? Still other people beat themselves up wishing they had spent more quality time with their dog.

Try to remember that guilt does no one any good and it won't change anything that has already happened. There is no point in feeling guilty about things you wish you had done now that your dog is gone. You'll feel better if you just accept the things you cannot change and move on with your life.

Depression - It is completely understandable and normal to withdraw and feel lost and confused at the death of a loved one. Many people lose their appetite and find that taking care of the simplest matter is a chore. Depression has been likened to a steep downhill slope--once you've started down, it's difficult to stop and return to normal.

The death of a cherished dog can release a veritable avalanche of unrelated feelings and repressed emotions that make your depression worse. For many people their dog was the one thing they could count on, even when everything else in their world was in chaos. Dogs offer us unconditional love and support, and when they die, our source of strength can be removed and we fall into a state of depression.

Acceptance - Accepting that your cherished dog is gone forever is hard to do. The road to acceptance is long, but there are many people willing to help along the way and things you can do for yourself the make the traveling easier. Allowing yourself time to mourn is very important.

Many people cannot understand how someone could love an animal so much and thus can't understand how you could be so upset when your dog dies. But as long as you realize the important role your dog played in your life, that's all that matters. Cherish your memories of the good times--and the sad times. Talk about her with friends and family, recalling special moments. Although painful at first, you will find that it helps you focus on the good things and move beyond the pain.

Credit: dogtime.com (Adapted from the American Animal Hospital Association)

U.S. Hog Confirmed with Swine Flu

2009-10-19T18:21:00.002-04:00

The pandemic H1N1 flu virus was confirmed for the first time today in a U.S. hog, which was exhibited at the Minnesota State Fair where four teenagers became sick, the Agriculture Department said on October 19, 2009.

USDA said the discovery does not suggest infection of commercial pig herds raised for slaughter. Health officials say the virus, originally known as swine flu, is not linked to meat products. "People cannot get this flu from eating pork or pork products. Pork is safe to eat," Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in a statement.

Swine flu, common in hogs around the world, causes fever and coughing in pigs, which usually recover from the illness. The virus has been found in several herds in Canada.

Minnesota State Fair, which ended September 6, 2009, sent 120 teens home on September 3 after four of them were diagnosed with the H1N1 virus. The teens were members of a performing arts group in 4-H, a nationwide social and educational program for rural youth.

On Friday, USDA said "information available at this time would suggest the children were not sickened by contact with the fair pigs." It said the hogs appeared healthy when the samples were taken. A USDA source said it appeared some of the children handling the swine were showing signs of the flu.

Source: yahoo.com

NYC Chelsea Piers Now Safe for Pigeons

2009-10-18T02:23:00.000-04:00

Animal-rights activists the world over—or at least a small group of pigeon-lovers—rejoiced when they learned that New York City's Chelsea Piers recently decided to stop trapping the birds via an outsourced pest-control service.

Pigeon advocates had complained for more than a year about the wood-and-wire traps, which had been placed on the Sports Complex’s fire escapes to prevent the ubiquitous aviators from massing and pooping on the property. While Piers officials had maintained in the past that the droppings presented a serious health risk to visitors, advocates claim that pigeon excrement poses no worse a threat than doggie doo. “We believed that the Piers were allowing their exterminator to kill the pigeons they trapped,” said Al Streit, founder and director of the rescue, advocacy and educational group Pigeon People. “If [the pigeons] had been moved even hundreds of miles away, they would have returned within a day [because of their homing instincts]. They didn’t. We’re happy that pigeons can now fly through the sports complex without danger,” Streit continued. “We hope Chelsea Piers has learned that keeping pigeons off buildings is easy and cheap to do. There’s no need for killing. And, if you kill them, others take their places.”

Source: gaycitynews.com

"Dog" - by YouScreamIScream

2009-10-18T01:03:00.000-04:00

WV Men Indicted for Turkey Abuse

2009-10-17T01:13:00.001-04:00

A Monroe County (West Virginia) Grand Jury has indicted two former turkey plant workers already charged with abusing birds and captured on tape by animal rights activists.

Walter Lee Hambrick, of Fairlea (WV), faces three charges of animal cruelty and Scott Alvin White, of Second Creek (WV), faces one charge. Both men have attorneys, but neither could be immediately reached for comment.

Monroe County Prosecutor Justin St. Clair says the charges stem from an incident last year in which the Norfolk, Virginia group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals videotaped workers at an Aviagen Turkeys Inc. plant abusing the birds.

Lee pleaded guilty in April to animal cruelty misdemeanors in Greenbrier County. Charges against Hambrick in Greenbrier County are pending.

Source: whsv.com

Bunnies = Biofuel????

2009-10-16T04:15:00.002-04:00

Animal rights activists in Stockholm, Sweden, say thousands of rabbits killed to thin their ranks in area parks should not be used for heating fuel.

Anna Johannesson of the Society for the Protection of Wild Rabbits is among those opposing using rabbit carcasses as bioenergy fuel at a heating plant in the central Sweden province, The Local, an area newspaper reported on October 13, 2009.

"Those who support the culling of rabbits surely think it's good to use the bodies for a good cause. But it feels like they're trying to turn the animals into an industry rather than look at the main problem," Johannesson said.

The rabbits burned at the Varmland heating plant are killed to protect trees and shrubs in Stockholm's parks.

Tommy Tuvunger of the Stockholm Traffic Office told The Local many of the targeted rabbits were once household pets released into the wild by their owners. "People who think that the bunnies are cute and cuddly suddenly don't think they're as fun anymore and put the animals outside. They think: 'there they can play with the other rabbits,'" Tuvunger said.

Source: upi.com

Honoring the lives of our pets | Minnesota Public Radio NewsQ

2009-10-15T18:08:00.001-04:00

Honoring the lives of our pets | Minnesota Public Radio NewsQ

Throw A Flag On That Play!

2009-10-15T00:31:00.000-04:00

A 7-year-old Wintersville, Ohio boy playing a game of backyard football was tackled by a deer.

Brandon Hiles says he encountered the buck when the ball rolled into woods while he was playing with friends on October 10, 2009. The boy says the buck ran at him and flipped him with its antlers, leaving bruises and a gash. His 9-year-old friend Wyatt Pugh beat the deer with a stick to make it go away.

Wintersville Police Officer Art Fowler Jr. says there were actually two bucks in the area gearing for a fight, and Brandon was attacked when he inadvertently got between them.

Source: wtov9.com; Photo: evilerin/flickr.com

PlayPlayPlay!

2009-10-14T01:35:00.000-04:00

Source: ihasahotdog.com

Advantage Glues Senior Poodle to Crate

2009-10-13T01:33:00.003-04:00

A Canadian veterinarian presented with a peculiar case of a 15 year old poodle mix stuck in its crate last week traced the problem to the pet's spot-on flea treatment.

When the dog wouldn't come out of its crate, its concerned owner brought the dog, crate and all, to Dr. Tej Dhaliwal of Ontario, Canada. Following two hours of sleuthing, Dhaliwal concluded that benzyl alcohol, an inactive ingredient in Advantage, was to blame.

Residue from the product Advantage, which was applied between the poodle's shoulders, somehow came in contact with the plastic base of the animal's crate, dissolving the plastic and causing it to adhere to the dog's belly. Dhaliwal said the owner of the dog had applied Advantage to the dog before bedtime. He speculated that the dog rolled over in the crate before the liquid pesticide dried. Presumably, residue of the product made contact with the plastic floor of the crate, causing the plastic to dissolve and "glue" the dog in place overnight.

Bayer Animal Health, maker of Advantage, acknowledged that the flea treatment was the likely culprit and offered to pay the owner's veterinary bill, compensate him for loss of salary and replace the crate, Dhaliwal said. A spokesman for Bayer in the United States confirmed that Advantage contains benzyl alcohol, which reacts with certain plastics.

Dhaliwal noted that the dog had been unable to eat, drink or relieve itself for 15 hours by the time he managed to free it with a tool normally used to scrape excess plaster from drywall. The white dog had a patch of dark gray plastic about 6 inches by 4 inches stuck to its fur. Following the advice of representatives at Bayer, Dhaliwal said, he removed the remaining plastic using the contents of another two tubes of Advantage. Once freed, the dog was fine.

Source: news.vin.com

"Boomer" Is Going for the Record!

2009-10-12T01:38:00.003-04:00

Measuring 3 feet tall at the shoulders and 7 feet long from nose to destructive wagging tail, "Boomer" might be the world's tallest living dog.

Owner Caryn Weber says her 3-year-old Landseer Newfoundland keeps all four paws on the floor when he drinks from the kitchen faucet in her family's eastern North Dakota farm house. Boomer stares into car windows eye to eye with drivers. A 20-pound bag of dry dog food lasts the 180-pound canine a couple of weeks. Weber says her furry black and white dog "comes into the house and his tail is so high everything gets knocked around."

Weber plans to send Boomer's measurements to Guinness World Records. The previous record holder was a nearly 4-foot-tall Great Dane that died in Summer 2009.

Source: wkrg.com

Stem Cell Therapy for Arthritic Dogs

2009-10-10T01:32:00.001-04:00

You have heard about stem cell research to treat diseases in humans. Now, doctors are using stem cells to treat dogs with arthritis. It's a relatively new treatment, called Vet Stem Regenerative Veterinary Medicine. A 14 year old yellow lab named Bear is proof that the treatment works.

Bear's owner says Bear was on his last leg last year because of debilitating arthritis. "He couldn't jump on the couch, he couldn't jump at all. As far as walking, he would fall and his back legs would just give out."

Since arthritis medications weren't working well, Bear's owner opted to try the treatment offered by Dr. Will Snow at Tillman's Corner Veterinary Hospital (Alabama). It uses an animal's own stem cells to stop the progression of arthritis. Dr. Snow says, "Within 90 days you should see some result as far as improvement in activity level, ability to run and jump and a reduction in the amount of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs you have to give."

Dr. Snow injected the stem cells into Bear's arthritic hips in November 2008, and the dog has shown improvement. He isn't as spry as a puppy, but his owner says her dog can once again go on daily walks, and is much more stable on his feet. She is glad she opted to try the stem cell treatment. "I am very happy with it. If i didn't do it, he wouldn't be here today."

The treatment costs anywhere from $1800-$2500. For more information, call Dr. Snow at (251) 661-5244.

Source: wkrg.com

Getting Along Just Fine, Thank You!

2009-10-09T02:39:00.001-04:00

Researchers think "Allison", a five-year-old green sea turtle in Texas, lost her left flipper in a shark attack. However, Sea Turtle Inc., a not-for-profit organization in South Padre Island, Texas, outfitted Allison with a black neoprene suit complete with a carbon-fiber dorsal fin mounted on the back that allows her to swim with other turtles. Without the attached fin, Allison can only swim in circles.

Source: ap

This Piggy Ain't Goin' To Market

2009-10-07T02:14:00.000-04:00

Gaining popularity in England, micropigs like "Cheryl" (on left) and "Simon" grow to be just 14 inches tall. They are so popular they are almost impossible to acquire in England and sell for up to $1,112 (U.S.) each.

Source: Geoff Robinson Photography

Get 'Em!

2009-10-05T01:33:00.000-04:00

Source: ihasahotdog.com

Visit Your Dog's Ancestral Home - Bichon Frise

2009-10-02T06:12:00.000-04:00

Origin: The port towns that rimmed the Mediterranean Sea during ancient times, many of which were along the coast of present-day France.

Story: Surprisingly, this fashionable breed was a sailors' pet first, trained to greet locals at ports around the Mediterranean between 600 and 300 B.C. These white, walking powder puffs with plumed tails were eventually adopted by Italian nobles, who groomed them to look like lions for appearances at royal courts. A few centuries ago, they came into vogue with the French, who called them bichon à poil frisé (curly lapdogs). Since Henry III's reign, French aristocrats and commoners alike have championed them.

The trip: France is a great place to bring a dog. The French fawn over dogs in boutiques, trains, hotels—even some restaurants. From Paris, head south to the sea. Stay in a village along the Côte d'Azur, such as sleepy Juan-les-Pins, a suburb of Antibes, and soak up the sun at the oceanfront cafés. Then travel to Antibes proper, home to the Musée Picasso (the château where the artist worked in 1946), Cannes, and Monte Carlo, with its belle epoque-era casinos.

Hot tip: To bring your pet into France, you'll need proof your dog has had a rabies vaccination in the past year and that it has an identifying tattoo or implanted microchip. Your vet must also issue an export health certificate, a document saying that your tail-wagging friend is fit to travel on the dates specified.

Credit: msnbc.com; Photo: gotpetsonline.com

Been There Too!

2009-10-01T01:22:00.000-04:00

Geez...Rename This Poor Cat Already!

2009-09-30T01:55:00.002-04:00

A fierce little feline is an unquestionable survivor, after falling victim to a petty, heartless prank. A female cat, who is between 9 months and one year old, was found helplessly abandoned, wrapped from neck to paws in duct tape in North Philadelphia, PA on September 22, 2009.

She was treated by the Pennsylvania SPCA who named the cat, "Sticky". After removing the outer shell of duct tape, the staff was shocked to find that not only had the abuser wrapped Sticky's body numerous times, they also started to wrap her two front legs and back legs together. Based on the amount of tape recovered, Messer estimates an entire roll of duct tape was used in this crime. The domestic short-haired cat was sedated as Messer and her team removed the tape as carefully as possible so that they could preserve and use it as evidence.

Thankfully, despite the pressure and restraints that kept Sticky captive, and being slightly underweight, no other permanent damage was done. Estimating she had been bound for just a few days, Sticky immediately returned to her calm, caring and peaceful personality once she was mobile again.

Sticky has already received several offers for adoption, but will remain with the PSPCA until the investigation to find her abusers is officially closed. The original $1,000 reward offered for information leading to the conviction of those involved jumped quickly up to $2,000 with additional donations from the public. To contribute toward the reward, visit www.pspca.com and make a donation.

Source: peoplepets.com

Finally! A Reason to Enjoy Football Again!

2009-09-30T00:01:00.001-04:00

Remembering Daisy....

2009-09-29T01:42:00.001-04:00

Jessica Simpson toted her new Malti-Poo puppy, Daisy, with her to a taping of The Late Show with David Letterman in New York City on Aug. 5, 2004. Daisy joined Simpson on many TV shows, including Good Morning America in 2005.

5 year old Daisy was snatched by a coyote during a walk earlier this month near Simpson's home in California.

Source: peoplepets.com; Photo: Brian Prahl/Splash News Online

Work It! ... Work It!

2009-09-28T01:33:00.000-04:00

A one-year-old water dragon poses in a chair during training by her owner in Bangkok. Santisak Dulapitak has been training his animals to appear in advertisements and movies for more than two decades.

Source: reuters / Sukree Sukplang

Dog Saves Piglet's Bacon!

2009-09-27T23:21:00.004-04:00

In Germany, an eight year old Rhodesian Ridgeback has taken on a tiny pot-bellied pig, Paulinchen, as her own offspring. The two week old piglet was born in the nearby forest and abandoned by her family. Although the piglet was alone and cold when found, Katjinga - who had just finished weening her own litter of puppies - started to nurse Paulinchen. The piglet is expected to be fine.

Source: www.dailymail.co.uk; Photos: animal press / barcroft media

A Higher Use Than Just Housework!

2009-09-26T23:14:00.001-04:00

Black-billed Whistling ducklings shelter beneath an Ostrich feather duster in a pen at Chester Zoo in Chester, England, on September 18, 2009. Keepers are using the feather dusters as a surrogate mother to help rear the birds after their eggs had been abandoned in the nest.

Source: reuters

Oops!

2009-09-20T01:16:00.000-04:00

Source: ihasahotdog.com

More Dog Haiku

2009-09-16T02:17:00.000-04:00

Look in my eyes and
Deny it. No human could
Love you as much I do.

Dig under fence - why?
Because it's there. Because it's
There. Because it's there.

I am your best friend,
Now, always, and especially
When you are eating.

You may call them fleas,
But they are far more - I call
Them a vocation.

My owners' mood is
Romantic - I lie near their
Feet. I blow a big one.

Credit; travelingdogs.com

What is Euthanasia?

2009-09-15T21:07:00.000-04:00

Euthanasia is an overdose of barbiturates that stop a pet's heart. The fluids are administered through an intravenous catheter or an injection, and when it's your pet being euthanized you can choose whether or not you want to be present. Some veterinarians will come to your home for this--a good idea if your pet finds going to the clinic or pet hospital stressful.

Before the procedure, most vets will invite you to go into an examination room and then leave you alone for a few minutes to say what you want to say, or just hold your pet close. When the veterinarian and vet tech come in, let them know whether you'd like a snippet of your pet's fur to keep, or the collar.

What's the procedure?

Some clinics give the pet a sedative first because many pick up on what's going on, and get anxious. But it isn't standard practice everywhere so you may have to ask for it.

Certain pets, like some humans, are more reactive than others and will scream or whine in response to the injection, which can be disconcerting, to say the least, at a time when emotions are already fraught.

What most people are not prepared for is how quickly the euthanasia solution works; death occurs in just a few seconds. You'll probably feel your pet relax, and then it's over. Sometimes you may hear what sounds like a gasp coming from your pet after he has died; that's simply air being exhaled by the lungs. The nerves can twitch for a moment, too. Sometimes the pet urinates.

These are involuntary reflex actions after death and aren't painful, but they can be disturbing to watch. Unlike in the movies, your pet's eyes will not close automatically.

Should I be There?

The only right answer is the one that makes sense for you. Do you want to be? If so, be there, since your pet would probably prefer it. However, if you think you'll get upset in front of your pet, it's best if you're not there. If you can keep calm (hard as that is), your pet will be calmer, too.

Credit: dogtime.com

I Really Needed This!

2009-09-10T01:44:00.001-04:00

The Best Date Ever!!

2009-09-09T01:18:00.000-04:00

Source: ihasahotdog.com

Visit Your Dog's Ancestral Home - Cocker Spaniel

2009-09-07T06:06:00.000-04:00

Origin: Rollinsford, N.H.

Story: A spaniel was one of two confirmed dogs to come to the New World on the Mayflower. (The other was a mastiff.) But the wavy-coated breed we officially call the cocker spaniel came later. In 1882, a dog brought from England while pregnant gave birth to a puppy given the unlikely name of Obo II. It was America's first cocker spaniel, according to the American Spaniel Club. Obo II lived and died near Salmon Falls River in the mill town of Rollinsford, N.H. His tombstone can be seen on the grounds of the elementary school at 487 Locust Street.

The trip: Rollinsford's 19th-century mills and mill housing have been redeveloped into an area called Salmon Falls Mills, where you'll find dozens of artists making jewelry, textiles, sculpture, pottery, and furniture. Starting here, take your canine companion on a scenic, five-mile loop. Head south to Foundry Park, a river inlet with a boat launch, and then cross Salmon Falls River on Route 4 to adorable South Berwick, Maine. On your way back to New Hampshire, take Main Street and you'll pass over a bridge that runs parallel to a historic railroad trestle. Then enter Scoutland, a woodsy spot with hiking trails. There are no accommodations in Rollinsford, so consider staying a half-hour's drive away in Durham, N.H., at Hickory Pond Inn (800/658-0065, hickorypondinn.com).

Hot tip: On Sundays during warm weather months, Front Street in Rollinsford becomes an open-air market. And twice a year, the artists of Salmon Falls Mills open their studios to the public. millartists.com

Credit: msnbc.com; Photo: dogbreeddigest.com

What a Sleepy Fellow!

2009-09-04T01:18:00.000-04:00

"Altai", a three month old male snow leopard cub, yawns during his official presentation at the Berlin Zoo in Germany.

Source: ap

My Ode to the End of Summer

2009-09-03T01:21:00.000-04:00

Source: ihasahotdog.com

World's Oldest Dog Dies

2009-09-02T13:53:00.001-04:00

Chanel, a wire-haired dachshund that held the record as the world's oldest dog and celebrated its last birthday with a party at a dog hotel and spa has died on August 28, 2009 at age 21 — or 147 in dog years.

The dog, named Chanel, died of natural causes at home in Port Jefferson Station, Long Island, New York.

Chanel, as stylish as her legendary namesake, wore tinted goggles for her cataracts in her later years and favored sweaters because she was sensitive to the cold, owners Denice and Karl Shaughnessy said.

The playful dachshund was only 6 weeks old when Denice Shaughnessy, then serving with the U.S. Army, adopted her from a shelter in Newport News, Va. Along with her owner, Chanel spent nine years on assignment in Germany, where she became adept at stealing sticks of butter from kitchen countertops and hiding them in sofa cushions in the living room, Shaughnessy said.

Karl Shaughnessy nominated Chanel for the title of world's oldest dog after noticing the Guinness World Records book had no record. Guinness World Records officials presented Chanel with a certificate as the world's oldest dog at a Manhattan birthday bash hosted by a private pet food company in May. Chanel loved the party, especially the cake, which had a peanut butter flavor and had been made for dogs, Denice Shaughnessy said.

Chanel exercised daily and ate home-cooked chicken with her dog food, but good care wasn't entirely responsible for her long life, said her owners, who attributed God. "Dogs are God's angels sent here to look out for us," Denice Shaughnessy said.

A dog from New Iberia, La., named Max, is vying for the record of world's oldest dog. Owner Janelle Derouen said Max marked his 26th birthday on Aug. 9. She said Guinness World Records officials were reviewing documents to authenticate his age.

Source: ap

200,000,000 Male Chicks Ground Alive Yearly

2009-09-02T01:37:00.001-04:00

Today, Chicago-based "Mercy for Animals" released an undercover video showing unwanted male chicks being tossed alive into a grinder at an Iowa plant and accused egg hatcheries of being "perhaps the cruelest industry" in the world. The undercover video was shot at a hatchery in Spencer, Iowa over a two-week period in May and June 2009.

The hatchery is owned by West Des Moines-based Hy-Line North America and is one of many operations in Iowa, the nation's leading egg producer.United Egg Producers, a trade group for U.S. egg farmers confirms that tossing male chicks, which have little value because they can't lay eggs or be raised quickly enough to be raised profitably for meat, into grinders is common industry practice.

The video, shot with a hidden camera and microphone by a Mercy for Animals employee who got a job at the plant, shows a Hy-Line worker sorting through a conveyor belt of chirping chicks, flipping some of them into a chute like a poker dealer flips cards. These chicks, which a narrator says are males, are then shown being dropped alive into a grinding machine.

In other parts of the video, a chick is shown dying on the factory floor amid a heap of egg shells after falling through a sorting machine. Another chick, also still alive, is seen lying on the floor after getting scalded by a wash cycle, according to the video narrator.

Hy-Line asserts that "instantaneous euthanasia" — a reference to killing of male chicks by the grinder — is a standard practice supported by the animal veterinary and scientific community.

Mercy for Animals sent letters to the nation's 50 largest grocery store chains, including Walmart, Whole Foods, Safeway, Harris Teeter and Trader Joe's, asking them to include a label on egg cartons that says, "Warning: Male chicks are ground-up alive by the egg industry. Mercy for Animals estimated 200 million male chicks are killed a year, which the United Egg Producers also confirmed.

There is no federal law that ensures the humane euthanasia of animals on farms or hatcheries, according to Jonathan Lovvorn, vice president and chief counsel of the Humane Society of the United States. The Humane Society also says that virtually all egg farms, even those that sell cage-free eggs, get their hens from hatcheries that kill their male chicks.

Source: yahoo; Video: Mercy For Animals

Our Last Afternoon Together...

2009-08-31T13:38:00.001-04:00

Our last afternoon together at Highspire Gardens on 8/24/09. The weather was warm and the sunshine felt great -- just the way she liked it. Miss Paras is just So Beautiful that I wanted to share this photo with the world.

Ready to Roll!

2009-08-31T13:33:00.002-04:00

Dylan, my 12 year old adopted Special Needs Yorkie from Texas, is Ready to Roll in his new doggie wheelchair! Dylan spent Sunday with me practicing his skills. Since he is blind, Dylan is listening to clicker training -- and following his nose with lots of roasted chicken bits for his reward -- to know which direction to go!

Take A Bite Out of Office Work!

2009-08-30T16:06:00.004-04:00

In the "Sale" section now of urbanoutfitters.com for $9.99.

I just couldn't resist!

Source: urbanoutfitters.com

Kennedy's Dogs Will Be Missed On The Hill

2009-08-30T11:32:00.001-04:00

Sen. Ted Kennedy (D-Mass.) was years ahead of the curve when it came to Take Your Dog to Work Day. The constant presence of his three Portuguese water dogs in his Russell building office helped humanize their owner and brought a sense of fun to a workplace known for rules and formalities.

Now, lobbyists, staffers and other Hill dwellers say they mourn not only the passing of Kennedy but also he end of a unique chapter in Capitol Hill’s canine history. With their black curly hair, floppy ears and bouncy gait, Kennedy’s dogs became a part of the lawmaker’s nearly 47-year Hill tenure. Kennedy’s Senate office always had water bowls and tennis balls on hand. Major legislation was hammered out as White House officials patted fuzzy heads and threw balls during meetings. The dogs were known to snooze under committee room tables.

“It’s like the end of an era,” said Kennedy’s former judiciary committee general council David Sutphen. “I find it hard to believe you’ll have another senator with a dog who comes to meetings all over the Capitol. It’s kind of the closing of a chapter.”

With the exception of the Senate floor, there were few places Splash, Sunny and Cappy didn’t have access to, including committee hearings and, once, even the Oval Office. It was a rare day when the Massachusetts lawmaker wasn’t shadowed by at least one of the pooches, whether Kennedy’s schedule brought him an office full of visitors or a committee bill markup.

A powerful man with a booming voice and a formidable family legacy, Kennedy often used his dogs to break the ice with Republican lawmakers, to relax nervous visitors and to put political personalities to the sniff test. “They were part of the landscape,” said former Bush senior education adviser Sandy Kress, who partnered with Kennedy’s office to develop the mammoth education bill No Child Left Behind. “I had no problem patting the dog while talking about Section 10.32. ... It just created a pleasant environment,” said Kress, who often watched the senator toss tennis balls to the dogs in the office. “At one point, we got it into our heads that the dogs reacted poorly to committee members who weren’t No Child supporters. We always joked that the dogs knew best.”

Studies have shown that pets in the workplace can boost productivity and raise employee morale and Kennedy was walking proof, animal experts say. “Our pets humanize us. Immediately, there’s something to talk about,” said ASPCA executive vice president Stephen Zawistowski. “A dog provides easy common contact. It’s a neutral contact.”

Kennedy is far from the only lawmaker known for bringing furry friends to the Hill — a hobby he used to make friends on both sides of the aisle. The Senator bonded with House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer over their canine affinity, according to the Congressman. Hoyer’s English Springer Spaniel had her own bed in Hoyer’s office before she passed away in 2007. “God invented dogs for us, to give us the kind of uncompromising love that human beings need, and we in turn give them the same kind of love,” Hoyer noted at the Congressional Canine Champions awards ceremony earlier this year.

President George W. Bush’s National Institutes of Health appointee Elias Zerhouni reportedly earned Kennedy’s support after one of the dogs stayed by Zerhouni’s side during a meeting about the Senate confirmation process.

But Kennedy's dogs weren’t saints either. Like a parent of spoiled children, the senator was loving but a poor disciplinarian. Splash has been known to bark impatiently during long meetings. The dog once sent White House staffers into a frenzy when the pooch began barking in the Oval Office. Kennedy and his pets were at the White House waiting for the start of a religious freedom bill signing ceremony with President Clinton. “Kennedy was working the room, and Splash starts barking incessantly. The president was off in a side room having a meeting and the White House staffers start freaking out,” said Sutphen, a former staffer who attended the ceremony with Kennedy. After Splash was excused, Clinton walked in, asking why he’d heard barking. “No one fessed up,” said Sutphen. “But it showed the light-hearted, jovial, jokester side of [Kennedy].”

The dogs’ antics could turn Capitol Hill into a dysfunctional family scene. While interning on Capitol Hill, then-Maryland University student Scott Shewfelt met Kennedy as he stumbled upon the Porties, unleashed and fresh from a haircut, digging in the shrubs outside the Russell Senate federal building where Kennedy kept his office. “Teddy was yelling at them, but they weren’t listening at all,” Shewfelt said. “It was absolute chaos.” Whether the dogs were a distraction or not, Capitol Hill regulars say rarely was a complaint heard. Boston Globe political reporter Susan Milligan, who covered Kennedy for almost a decade, was once dragged away from an interview with another Senator as Kennedy insisted she come visit the dogs. “I was interviewing Sen. [Olympia] Snowe when Kennedy came around the corner and asked if I would come ‘say hi to the dogs,'” Mulligan recalled. “At that point, what was I going to say? He had me come in the car and greet the dogs. He really wanted me to say hello.” Today, the Kennedy offices are quiet and the dogs are residing with the late senator’s wife, Vicki, at the family compound on Cape Cod.

Wayne Pacelle, chief executive officer of the Humane Society of the United States, hopes the tradition of dog in Hill offices continues. “He showed that animals are intimately involved in our lives, and there is an implicit reminder of our responsibility to them,” said Pacelle. “So many more people are treating their dogs like members of the family. You may see other members handle their dogs in a similar way.”

Source: politico.com

Disco Kitty!

2009-08-30T01:11:00.000-04:00

He Loved His Dogs!

2009-08-28T07:55:00.001-04:00

Politics aside, it's no secret that Senator Ted Kennedy loved his Portuguese Water Dogs, "Sunny" and "Splash", who frequently went sailing with the Senator and were also everpresent in his Senate offices. Below is an adorable photo of Senator Kennedy and his wife, Vicki, greeting "Bo", the First Dog, outside the Oval Office on April 21, 2009. Bo was gifted to the Obamas by the Senator. I just love the dog toy laying casually in the hallway of the Oval Office!Photo: whitehouse.gov

A Special Farewell -- Miss Paras -- 1989-2009

2009-08-25T21:04:00.002-04:00

Sometimes in our lives we are blessed to spend time with an exceptional creature – and so I was blessed with “Miss Paras”, who passed away yesterday at the age of 20.

Adopted by me from Rescue at age 18, we enjoyed just over two years together before the valves of her tiny heart simply wore out. At a petite 3.3 pounds, Miss Paras loved strutting down the sidewalks, looking terrific with her long white flowing hair and greeting her adoring public. Despite rapidly advancing blindness that ultimately claimed her sight, she walked every day to the Town Park and back home so quickly that none of my other Yorkies could keep up with her. Sporting her pink sparkle harness and collar, Miss Paras kept her vigorous daily fitness and beauty regime to the end.

The “Beautiful and Fabulous Miss Paras” and I looked quite alike with our white hair that when held side-by-side blended together perfectly. It was my joy to share her gorgeous presence at special events, including several local “look alike” contests and two Pet Expos in Virginia, where Miss Paras graciously greeted her public, despite her general distaste for any outing that required a car ride. We were rather easy to spot together in a crowd with our pink matching sweaters and pink doggie carriage – in which Miss Paras refused to ride and instead insisted on pulling like a sled dog.

I didn’t enter into my relationship with Miss Paras with any fixed expectation of how long we might have together, just my usual “Every Day is a Gift” credo I bring to all Special Seniors. I certainly never dreamed that this timeless and ageless beauty would grace my life and home for over two years – and claim the record for the longest stay of any Special Needs Senior Yorkie I have ever adopted.

My Darling, your boundless energy made it easy to forget the true number of years behind you. Your poise and dignity in the face of advancing age taught me much, Beautiful Miss Paras. You are and will always be an inspiration for what Life Can Be. I’ll miss your spunky morning “ruff-ruff” demand for the timely presentation of your breakfast, your sweet tiny moist toothless kisses and the softness and warmth of your elegant petite face against mine. As you were Beautiful and Fabulous in life, tonight your star will twinkle in Heaven so brightly that all the other stars will be jealous. That’s alright, My Beauty. You “work it” from Heaven and keep showing us how it’s done! And know that I’ll always be your Biggest Fan.

Your Loving Mommie, Tina XOXO

Peek-A-Boo!

2009-08-25T01:16:00.000-04:00

A baby ring-tailed lemur cuddles with its mother in their enclosure at Ueno Zoo in Tokyo on July 11, 2009.

Source: reuters

Stolen Dogs Found at Peru Medical School

2009-08-24T01:33:00.000-04:00

At least two stolen dogs were found in an operating room used for dissections at the medical school of the University of San Marcos (Peru), South America's oldest university, but its dean denied relying on dognappers to collect specimens for classes. The University of San Marcos does not have access to enough human cadavers for its students, so they sometimes cut open dogs instead.

Carmen Valverde's dog Tomas was stolen by two men while she was walking in the working-class Brena district of Lima, and a friend who works at the school's teaching hospital spotted him by chance in a surgery room where dogs are dissected. Valverde donned a lab coat and snuck into the hospital to rescue Tomas. Video her friend shot a week ago, aired on local television, shows him sedated, splayed, and strapped to a stainless steel table -- just moments away from the knife.

After local newspapers published the story, other people missing dogs rushed to the hospital's door and one owner found her dog Chico.

The dean of the medical school, acknowledged that stolen dogs had wound up in the surgery room, but said the school only uses strays for classes. "I assure you we would have returned the dog. All our experimental surgeries are done to dogs that don't have owners," Rubios told Reuters.

Romila Briones, a member of ASPPA, a Peruvian animal rights group, said the law does not protect strays. "In Europe, they don't kill animals for education, they use dummies. Unfortunately, animals are just property in the eyes of the law here, like furniture," Briones said.

Source: reuters.com

Virginia Court to Rule on 'Value' of Chihuahua

2009-08-24T00:34:00.001-04:00

Virginia Court to Rule on 'Value' of Chihuahua

Dog Dies in Highway Accident

2009-08-22T11:35:00.004-04:00

In Rescue sometimes things go wrong, and last night "Major Winchester", a 9 year old chocolate cocker rescued from a shelter in Ohio, died on transport in a van accident in Maryland involving the Global Rescue Welfare League ("GROWL"). The other 6 dogs on board and the driver survived, but the rescue's van was totalled.

GROWL is an all volunteer organization which raises awareness of homeless animals all over the world. Its mission is to raise awareness about spay and neuter and responsible animal ownership. GROWL is directly involved in pulling animals from high kill shelters and coordinating volunteer transports for the dogs to rescue.

To donate to GROWL in support of their mission and the replacement of their van, go to their main website at www.mygrowl.com

Deep condolences to GROWL on the death of Major Winchester. He was a beautiful pup.

Photo: mygrowl.com

Been There!

2009-08-21T01:09:00.001-04:00

Source: ihasahotdog.com

Who Is Your True Love??

2009-08-20T08:26:00.001-04:00

Source: ihasahotdog.com

Climbin' On the "Nuts" FanWagon!

2009-08-20T01:12:00.000-04:00

The couple had set the timer on their camera while posing at a lakeside at Lake Minnewanka, a national park in Canada. Just as they were about to be captured on camera the cheeky squirrel popped up in the foreground and stole the show.

Melissa Brandts said: "We had our camera set up on some rocks and were getting
ready to take the picture when this curious little ground squirrel
appeared, became intrigued with the sound of the focusing camera and popped right into our shot."

The picture was submitted to the website of America's National Geographic magazine.

'It was a once in a lifetime moment - we were laughing about this little guy for days!' said Mrs Brandts.

Source: www.telegraph.co.uk

Vick's PR Campaign is the Pits | News and Opinion | Philadelphia Weekly

2009-08-20T00:11:00.002-04:00

Vick's PR Campaign is the Pits | News and Opinion | Philadelphia Weekly

Shared via AddThis

Doggy Bubble Fun!

2009-08-16T12:58:00.002-04:00

More Dog Haiku

2009-08-15T04:16:00.001-04:00

I lift my leg and
Wiz on each bush. Hello, Spot -
Sniff this and weep.

How do I love thee?
The ways are numberless as
My hairs on the rug.

My human is home!
I am so ecstatic I have
Made a puddle.

I hate my choke chain -
Look, world, they strangle me! Ack
Ack Ack Ack Ack Ack!

Sleeping here, my chin
On your foot - no greater bliss - well,
Maybe catching cats.

Credit: travelingdogs.com

Vick Back in the NFL

2009-08-13T22:17:00.001-04:00

Quarterback Michael Vick has signed a two-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, his agent, Joel Segal, confirmed to ESPN.com. The Eagles will hold a news conference on Friday morning to announce his signing. The first year of the deal is for $1.6 million deal with an option for the second year at $5.2 million.

Signing with the Eagles is a surprise landing point for Vick. It was among 26 clubs that said there was no interest in Vick. Vick was the No. 1 draft pick in 2001, and once the highest-paid player in football. But he has not played since 2006 when his career came tumbling down. He was convicted in August 2007 of conspiracy and running a dogfighting operation, sentenced to 23 months in federal prison and suspended indefinitely by the NFL.

But after serving his time and being released from home confinement July 20, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell conditionally lifted Vick's suspension, allowing him to sign with a team. Vick can immediately take part in preseason practices, workouts and meetings and can play in the final two preseason games. Once the season begins, Vick may participate in all team activities except games, and Goodell said he would consider Vick for full reinstatement by Week 6 (Oct. 18-19) at the latest.

Vick filed for bankruptcy protection last July, listing assets of about $16 million and debts of more than $20 million. Vick pleaded guilty after his three co-defendants had already done so. They told of how Vick participated in the killing of dogs that didn't perform well in test fights by shooting, hanging, drowning or slamming them to the ground.

Vick's appearances at federal court in Richmond, Va., prompted large groups of protesters to gather outside. Many were with PETA and held signs depicting photographs of pit bulls ravaged in dogfights. Still, there were supporters who wore his No. 7 jersey.

Source: espn.com

Changes In Your Senior Dog

2009-08-12T05:02:00.000-04:00

Sensory Changes - As some dogs age, their owners will notice a gradual "slowing down" of their companions. Their major senses--sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell--begin to dull and they do not respond as quickly to external stimuli. This sensory perception loss is often so slow that you may not even notice it until one day you look at him and wonder, "When did he get so old?"

The best defense against aging is to keep him active. Daily walks, playtime and training, making allowances for your dog's physical condition, are excellent ways to keep all of his senses sharp.

Some dogs also show signs of mental deterioration as they age. These age-related cognitive and behavior changes are generally subtle and can be addressed proactively. Regular geriatric exams are vital to detect and treat these problems before they control your dog's life.

Physical Changes - The physical changes in your dog are generally easier to spot than the sensory changes. As his body begins to deteriorate, his ability to fight infection is reduced and it takes longer to heal.

That means it is crucial to consult your veterinarian if you notice a significant change in behavior or the physical condition of your dog. There are many signs indicating your dog is approaching senior citizenship status, but they can be indicative of a variety of different problems (see the list at the end of this article).

One of the most common and frustrating problems for aging dogs and their owner is inappropriate elimination. The kidneys are one of the most common organ systems to deteriorate in a dog, and as a result, your once well-behaved dog may have trouble in controlling his bathroom habits, especially if left alone for a long time without access to the outdoors.

You may also notice he dribbles urine while sleeping. This is stressful for both you and your dog. Excessive urination or incontinence could be indicative of diabetes or kidney failure, both of which can be treated if caught early enough.

Credit: dogtime.com

Pleazzze ... Can I Hold Just One?? :)

2009-08-12T02:05:00.002-04:00

A sailor holds a green turtle hatching from its egg in Thailand. Each year special care is given to around 15,000 green and hawksbill baby turtles hatched and housed at the Thai navy's conservation center. Once the baby turtles are about six months old and their shells are big and strong enough to protect them from predators, the turtles are released to the sea.

Source: reuters

Happy 20th Birthday, Miss Paras!!!

2009-08-11T01:45:00.002-04:00

A most Happy 20th Birthday to the Beautiful and Fabulous, MISS PARAS!!

Double Trouble!

2009-08-09T01:13:00.000-04:00

Newborn ostrich chicks walk in their enclosure at Berlin Zoo in Germany. Six ostriches hatched at the zoo on June 21 and 22, 2009.

Source: reuters

August Is "Miss Paras Birthday Month"!!!!

2009-08-05T20:16:00.003-04:00

Here at PiddleTails we are celebrating a joyous occassion all during the month of August! Appearing in this week's Morgan Messenger (Berkeley Springs, WV) newspaper is the Birthday Announcement for my Beautiful and Fabulous "Miss Paras" who celebrates her 20th Birthday on August 11th!! I adopted Miss Paras from "Rescue Me! Yorkie Rescue" in 2007.

I Love You, Miss Paras!! XOXOXO!!!

Hush Little (Panda) Baby....!

2009-08-05T02:00:00.001-04:00

At a zoo in Thailand, Lin Hui, a seven year old Momma Giant Panda, yawns during naptime for her sleeping 25 day old baby.

Source: ap

Visit Your Dog's Ancestral Home - Boston Terrier

2009-08-04T01:58:00.000-04:00

Origin: Boston, Mass.

Story: In the 1800s, workingmen crossbred terriers with English bulldogs to develop a strong, spunky offspring for dogfights. The result — a small, bat-eared canine with a tuxedolike coat — was the Boston terrier. It was the first American purebred dog, according to the Boston Terrier Club of America. Over time, dog shows replaced dogfights as the breed's main stomping grounds.

The trip: If you're in Boston on the first weekend in December, drop by the city's largest annual dog show, Bay Colony (baycolonydogshow.com), where the Boston terrier and about 150 other breeds strut their stuff. During the rest of the year, take your dog to Boston Common, a 50-acre park downtown. (But be aware that it's illegal to let a dog run unleashed in Boston parks.) Dogs are welcome on the Freedom Trail, a two-and-a-half-mile self-guided walking tour of 16 colonial sites, such as the Bunker Hill Monument.

Hot tip: Nine Zero Hotel, a boutique Kimpton property downtown, provides dog beds, bowls, and treats—all complimentary (866/906-9090, ninezero.com ). A few local Sheratons are pet-friendly, too (800/325-3535, sheraton.com).

Credit: msnbc.com; Photo: britannica.com

MD Police Must Report Dog Killings During Drug Raids

2009-08-03T01:37:00.000-04:00

Beginning in 2010, police departments in Maryland will be required to report to the Governor's office every time they kill a dog during a drug raid. That requirement is part of a new law pushed by Cheye Calvo, the mayor of the small town of Berwyn Heights, Maryland.

Calvo proposed the legislation because police officers conducted a particularly violent raid last summer on his home in Prince George's County after intercepting a package of marijuana at a delivery-service warehouse. The cops then completed the delivery themselves to the address on the package. As it turns out, the house belonged Calvo, who had no connection to the drugs. The package was part of a botched distribution scheme in which an accomplice working for the delivery service was supposed to have intercepted it before it was delivered.

The raid made headlines around the world, not only because the police mistakenly busted into the home of a sitting mayor, but because they killed Calvo's two black Labradors, Peyton and Chase. Peyton was shot four times. Chase was shot twice, once from behind as he fled.

Within days, Calvo and his family were cleared of any wrongdoing, but Prince George's County officials have steadfastly refused to apologize.

The raid on Calvo's home was actually the second in 10 months in which police in Prince George's County burst into a private home during a drug raid, shot and killed the family dog, then realized they had raided the wrong house.

Source: thedailybeast.com

Here Is What A Real Rescuer Does On Her Weekend

2009-08-02T22:35:00.003-04:00

This sad deaf pooch in a Los Angeles kill shelter had clearly given up hope. Mislabelled as aggressive, his next stop was the Death Room. My friend Kelly spent her weekend pulling and transporting this amazing fellow. He travelled cuddled sweetly in a ball on the passenger seat of Kelly's small car and offered kisses to Kelly and those who helped him. A Fundable is set up for his vetting (exam, neuter, shots, removal of mass from his back) and transport to Rescue in Indiana. From the text of his Fundable, read about his past -- and now his FUTURE -- below:

This is the link to the Fundable:
http://www.fundable.com/groupactions/groupaction.2009-08-01.5420864374

Perhaps you have seen this photo...or maybe this is the first time you have laid eyes on this heart wrenching moment. He is an unnamed six year old deaf Pit that sits in isolation awaiting certain fate. The bigger tragedy is that he is not alone....you can find this similar story throughout shelters in Los Angeles. But for now we focus on him.....on rewriting the end of his story. He was used up and discarded. A stray. Someone's trash. This is for him.

We are raising funds -and hopefully awareness- to get him bailed, healed and rehabbed in an equipped facility... and offer him some firsts: - a kind hand on his head. - surgery for his back. - quality food. - behavioral therapy. - a bed of his own. - a bath. - words of encouragement. No they won't be heard. But no, they won't be lost on him... nor those that offer them. Please help.

And for those that you have ever heard say that dogs don't think and dogs don't feel... Well, lessons come from the most surprising teachers, sometimes.....you know?

UPDATE Sorry for the delay in posting this information. Needless to say it has been way beyond busy for us - as well as for so many other rescues. We are The Mutt Scouts a 501c3 non profit org. For those that wish for a tax exempt receipt for their donation, please email us at themuttscouts@gmail.com The following is the the background on this Unnamed deaf white Pit in the emotionally brutal photo that has been passed around the internet.

Brief History: This poor handsome guy first caught the attention of us at The Mutt Scouts when we were at the shelter checking on some dogs of interest. We returned on Sunday to bail a couple dogs -and if you follow our blog- http://themuttscouts.wordpress.com/ - wound up bailing many more. This Pit was not available that day but Nikki took the haunting pic that has everyone rallying for this guy's move to safety and to a facility that has the space and faculty to start his surgery, healing and rehab. Enter Kelly Gibson who was so moved by this image that she drove from San Diego up to LA to meet him. Kelly found what we did, that he was not the savage that he has been called and so deserves mercy and opportunity. Kelly's close friend, Rebecca, is the executive director of the Hamilton County Humane Society in Indiana. Rebecca has not only the desire and facilities to provide a chance for this guy, but also works with a trainer that is going to take him into her home and make his daily rehab her priority. We do not adopt out of state and have an iron clad rule not to allow networked dogs out of state either. Naturally we were skeptical when approached. But after extensive checking into Rebecca and speaking to her, we feel confident that she is so very competent, enormously dedicated and essentially the real deal. Therefore we started this fundable to help cover cost of pull, transport to a facility here for two weeks and his immediate care to be followed by his transport to her facility in Indiana. Anything left over will be handed off to his new care provider. Here is a six year old deaf dog sitting on Death Row who has been drug through hell in his life that sparked nationwide interest because of a picture. He is now being afforded a legitimate future and the possibility of pictures reflecting a vastly improved, nurturing quality of life. Huge thanks to all donators, all of you concerned for his well-being and all those reposting his story. If you have any other questions please email us at themuttscouts@gmail.com