Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Green Pet Products

Please consider environmentally friendly ways to pick up after your pet. A lot of dog owners use polyethylene based grocery bags to clean up after their dog. Unfortunately, the polyethylene bags can last hundreds of years and trap the waste that would normally decompose on its own.

There are biodegradable doggie bags and cat pan liners available in the market. There are also cat litters which do not contain clumping clay which harms the earth and could harm your furry loved one along with biodegradable cat liners.

One product that is 100% biodegradable is the BioBag which is made of GMO free certified corn along with using soy based inks. The BioBag is available for dogs and cats. Another added benefit for cats is that the BioBag liner is non-allergenic. To learn more about the BioBag for dogs and cats, please click here.

An alternative to clay clumping cat litter is Swheat Scoop. This product is made of natural wheat and made without chemicals, fragrance free and biodegradable. To read more about this product, please click here.

Of course, there are many products on the market and it’s a matter of finding one that works best for you and your pet. The internet is a great source to comparison shop as you can read the pros and cons of each item online by reviewing comments from others who have purchased the items. Remember to read what materials go into the product to assure it is actually a green product. Your veterinarian could have certain products to recommend as well.

Monday, March 30, 2009

Pets Go Green

Environmental impact is a wide growing concern and living green can be applied to pets as well.

Planet Green recommends a few green tips regarding pets.

1. Why not consider a ‘recycled’ pet? Shelters are filled with reusable, adoptable pets.
2. Consider the plight of recycled pets in shelters and make sure to spay or neuter
your pet so you are contributing positively to managing the pet population.
3. Buy certified organic pet foods as they must meet strict standards set by the USDA. Or make your own pet food following recipes found in books and online. If you decide to make your own pet food, mind the protein, vegetable and carbohydrate ratios recommended by your vet before feeding your creation to your loved one.
4. Buy pet products that are constructed of recycled materials. Bedding and toys can be found that use recycled items in their creation.
5. Clean up after your pet in a green manner by using biodegradable doggie bags and avoiding clumping clay cat litter.

6. Wash your pet with shampoos and conditioners that do not contain lauryl/laureth sulfates.
7. Use a non toxic natural flea control product for prevention and control of fleas.
8. Find natural organic remedies for ‘accidents’ or to remove odor.


To read more about green living pet tips, please click here.

Friday, March 27, 2009

Pet Diabetes

We often hear and see information about diabetes in adults and children. What about dogs and cats with diabetes? Pet owners often worry that the diagnosis of diabetes is like a death sentence for their furry loved one. Yet, with the proper care there’s little change in the quality of life.

Similar to humans the best ways to avoid pet diabetes are watching your pet’s weight, what you feed your friend and providing plenty of daily exercise.

Two urgent signs to look for in your dog or cat are excessive drinking and urination along with a large appetite yet bony appearance. Additional signs are sudden weight loss or gain, dehydration, thinning of the skin, vision and balance difficulties.

If you have discovered that your dog or cat has diabetes, there are support groups that can help educate and comfort you. As always, please discuss your pet’s health with your veterinarian before taking any action.

Thursday, March 26, 2009

Red Cross Animal Lifesaver Award

Willie, a Quaker parrot, is the first bird to win the American Red Cross Animal Lifesaver Award. Willie alerted his owner to a choking toddler by squawking, “Momma, baby. Momma, baby.” when 2 year old Hannah was choking on a Pop Tart. The owner, Megan Howard, performed the Heimlich just in time as Hannah’s lips and face were turning blue. Megan knew there was an emergency as Willie is normally a quiet bird. Megan notes that Willie started to screaming and flapping his wings. There was panic in his voice like she had never heard before from Willie. Megan is Hannah’s babysitter not mother. Needless to say, Hannah’s mother is grateful to both Willie and Megan.

Red Cross spokesman, Jim Rettew, stated, "Obviously, Willie played a very important role in saving a little girl's life. This was not just a bird chirping for his food. He saw that there was an emergency and used exemplary behavior to notify the babysitter that the child was choking."

Usually dogs are recognized by the American Red Cross with the Animal Lifesaver Award. The Denver chapter of the American Red Cross had nominated Willie for the award.

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Pet of the Week

Lindsay – Downers Grove, IL

Hello, my name is Lindsay and I hope you take some time to get to know me as you’ll be pleasantly surprised! I am a very playful Tri-color Tabby female and can be very sweet, but you'll need to be patient with me and give me lots of love and attention because life hasn't been so easy for me. I am about 5 years old. I was just a youngster when I had my kittens and took really good care of them, but I haven't yet had the chance for me to be the kitten that I am at heart. I had to live outside and fend for myself, too, and that was no fun at all. So, I prefer you all to myself with no other cats, dogs or children around to share your attention. I still have my claws yet I wont’ be able to have any more kittens. Here I've got a warm place to stay, good food to eat, and lots of love and attention. What I really need now is some time in my forever home to get to know and love people back like some of my other friends here have. If you will let me be the love of your life, I'll let you be mine. Will you please give me that chance?

If you'd like to meet me, please contact the West Suburban Humane Society, 1901 W. Ogden Ave, Downers Grove, IL, phone number 630-960-9600.
http://www.wshs-dg.org/wshs/


Pepsi – Tampa Bay, FL

Hey there everyone, I'm Pepsi! I'm definitely the life of the party! It doesn't matter where I am or what I'm doing, I'm always happy and positive about life. I absolutely LOVE people and attention. I'm a fairly skilled acrobat and I like to jump up and around really high when I get excited. For right now it's something I just can’t help doing because I get so happy when I see people. I'm sure with some training though I can find better ways to show my joy! I'm really just a pup, so I'll need plenty of one on one time with my new family so I can learn the ropes of living in a home. I'm perfect for a family who's looking to devote plenty of time and energy to me. I'm very active, happy go lucky, and ready to find a good home. With my own brand of surprise, life with me will keep you constantly on your toes, and the fun is guaranteed! Come visit me at the shelter!!

Name: Pepsi
ID#: 7127050
Sex: Female
Breed: Pit Bull Terrier/Hound Mix
Age: 8 months

For more information please contact the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, 3607 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa FL, 33607, (813) 876-7138.
http://www.humanesocietytampa.org/


Mathew – Boca Raton, FL

I'm Mathew, a big boy with a little attitude. You'd have one, too, if you had so many roommates! I can be a little fresh sometimes, and swatting is my specialty. Who likes a pushover, anyway? I am adjusting and getting better but maybe I'll come around faster in your home? I have the coloring of a Siamese, long hair and blue eyes. What a catch I am! Come quick to adopt me.

I’ll wait right here at Tri County Humane Society, 21287 Boca Rio Road, Boca Raton. (561) 482-8110. http://www.tricountyhumane.org/

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Tour For Life 2009

Since 2001, the North Shore Animal League has traveled around the nation in a “Tour For Life” campaign which is the largest cooperative pet adoption event. The goal is to find homes for hundreds of orphaned dogs, cats, puppies and kittens along with raising public awareness of the life these shelter animals live.

The tour stops in more than 20 cities across America. This year’s spokesperson is Kathryn Erbe from the TV show, Law and Order: Criminal Intent. This year the tour celebrates mixed breed dogs to help awareness of American Mutt-i-grees Club, AMC, which promotes shelter adoptions discouraging pet’s being purchased by retailers who are supplied by puppy mills. The tour lasts until mid April and is co-sponsored by Purina.

To learn more about the largest cooperative pet adoption event or to check the routes, West to East and South to North, please click here.

Monday, March 23, 2009

Reasons to Pick Up after Your Pet

Canine Parvo was brought to recent attention with Oprah’s loss of Ivan and Sadie’s steps to recovery. Parvovirus is spread through canine feces. It’s a danger to puppies while being vaccinated and to older dogs with aging immune systems. Perhaps the spread of this disease could be lessened if people picked up after their pets.

Dog waste is listed as one of the top contributors to bacteria in contaminated water. Dog feces can carry E-coli, salmonella and giardia.

The Virginia Department of Conservation lists 10 reasons to be a Pooper-Scooper. A few of the reasons given were that people can step in the waste and spread it to their home and office environment, the waste can get carried away into waterways, and roundworms and hookworms can be transmitted to humans and other animals. To read all 10 reasons, please click here.

Friday, March 20, 2009

Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race

The Iditarod is a competitive race held in Alaska that spans over 1150 miles and is called “The Last Great Race on Earth”. Teams consisting of 12-16 dogs with their musher cover the distance in 10-17 days. The race terrain includes mountain ranges, frozen rivers, forests, tundra in below zero temperatures. The weather can be hazardous let alone the environment.

The race is described as pitting man and dog against nature. There are regulations in place that insist particular equipment as must haves such as an arctic parka, sleeping bag, snow shoes, musher food, dog food and boots for the dog’s feet to protect their feet from ice and snow. There are veterinarians posted along check points to monitor the health of the dogs and administer aid when necessary.

To read more about the yearly race, please click here.

This year marked the 37th event and the race began on March 7 yet there is already a winner. Lance Mackey won this year covering the distance in 9 days and 21 hours. This is his third consecutive win. His 15 member dog team included 6 dogs that had been on his previous winning teams.

The race isn’t without controversy. As of March 20 three dogs have died in the 2009 race. The causes of their deaths are unknown at this point. Animal rights groups think the race is cruel to the dogs and protest the treatment of the dogs before the race even begins. They object that the cruelty to sled dogs starts from their birth till their deaths. To read more about the Sled Dog Action Coalition, please click here.

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Canine Parvovirus

Sadie had a brother named Ivan that was also adopted by Oprah after appearing on her TV show March 6, 2009. Ivan, a Cocker Spaniel, succumbed to parvovirus late last week. Sadie is also infected yet she has been receiving treatment and has stabilized.

Winfrey was quoted in the Chicago Tribune as stating, “I’m saddened by his passing, though we only had him for a weekend. I remain hopeful that Sadie will pull through.” Oprah adopted Sadie and Ivan from PAWS, Pets Are Worth Saving, in Chicago. PAWS commented, “Our thoughts and prayers are with Oprah Winfrey on the loss of Ivan, and we are hopeful that Sadie makes a full recovery.” PAWS noted that in 2008, out of the 501 puppies taken in, 99.2% either did not contract Parvovirus or were cured of the disease.”

Parvovirus is an illness transmitted through fecal matter and vomit of infected dogs. Puppies are most susceptible to parvovirus due to their underdeveloped immune systems. Parvovirus, referred to as Parvo, is an airborne illness that attacks white blood cells and can also attack the intestinal system. Humans cannot contract the disease yet can be carriers through clothing or shoes. Symptoms of Parvo can include bloody diarrhea or feces, dehydration, lethargy, vomiting, loss of appetite, and a high fever. Vaccinations do not ensure protection as infection can occur in between vaccinations. A way to possibly prevent the disease is to avoid areas where they could come in contact with the disease like parks, play dates, obedience classes, groomers, and anywhere other puppies roam, congregate. Kathleen Heneghan, a former president of the Chicago Veterinary Medical Association recommends treating a puppy like a new born baby as “they’re not fully protected until they’re 4 months of age.”

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Pet of the Week

Jillian – Downers Grove, IL

I’m introduced as Jillian yet I am a bit timid even if called by name. Three years ago I was born to this intimidating world. I am a female spayed brown tabby who still has her claws. When you visit the shelter, one of the first places you will see cats is called the “Shy Cat Room.” This is where I live and if it weren't for this room, I'd be living outside. You see, I was living in an area with many outdoor cats, who have litter after litter, year after year. I was trapped by a shelter volunteer who was planning to have me spayed and released back to my yard. This is a great option for cats who are too afraid of people to be taken inside, but this volunteer saw something in me that made her think I might be able to be socialized. If it weren't for the shy cat room, I would not have stood a chance, but here I am, and I have been coming out of my shell gradually. I would like to live in a home with other cats. I’m not sure how I feel about children or dogs as most were a scary experience when I was out alone in the world. I need a home where my people will be patient with me. It will be a slow road, but one worth going down.

If you'd like to meet me, please contact the West Suburban Humane Society, 1901 W. Ogden Ave, Downers Grove, IL, phone number 630-960-9600.
http://www.wshs-dg.org/wshs/

Anastasia – Tampa, FL

Hello everyone, I'm Anastasia! I'm a beautiful Shepherd mix girl waiting for the perfect home! Come visit me at the shelter today!!! MYM - Teacher's Pet (Purple) "I've got the whole package — smart, fuzzy, four legs, love to learn and live to please. Go ahead, teach me anything. Sit, stay, balance your checkbook, I can do it all. Keep me entertained and I will be yours forever."

Name: Anastasia
ID#: 7115479
Sex: Female
Breed: Shepherd/Mix
Age: 5 years 1 month

For more information please contact the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, 3607 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa FL, 33607, (813) 876-7138. http://www.humanesocietytampa.org/

Lacey and Percy – Boca Raton, FL

Haven't you always want TWINS? We're Lacey and Percy, and we must be adopted as a pair because we've been together all our lives, and we're also just pretty darn cute together! We recently lost our home but not each other, thankfully. We are 1 year-old Bichon / Poodle mixes, about 15 lbs. each. A spayed female and neutered male, we're quite ready for a forever home. We'll make your house happy with our bouncy, joyful personalities. We're great with other dogs and with children (and probably cats), and we're 90% housebroken. We provide double the love, so adopt us today!

I’ll wait right here at Tri County Humane Society, 21287 Boca Rio Road, Boca Raton. (561) 482-8110. http://www.tricountyhumane.org/.

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

National Poison Prevention Week

March 15-21 is National Poison Prevention Week in the U.S. The ASPCA, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, toxicologists have created a video advising of the 17 common household plants that could be harmful to your furry loved one.
The 17 plants discussed are lilies, marijuana, sago palm, tulip bulbs, rhododendron, oleander, castor bean, cyclamen, kalanchoe, yew, amaryllis, autumn crocus, chrysanthemum, english ivy, peace lily, pothos and schefflera.

Please click here to view the video and more information regarding the complete details of each of the 17 plants.

On March 20 from noon till 2 P.M. EST, there will be a live chat on their web site for the online community to inquire about potentially toxic plants and substances directly to ASPCA experts. To learn more about the live chat, please click here.

Also on the ASPCA web site, there is an article about the top 10 pet poisons in 2008. The top 10 pet poisons were human medications, insecticides, people food, rodenticides, veterinary medications, plants, chemical hazards, household cleaners, heavy metals and fertilizer. To read more about the top 10 pet poisons of 2008, please click here.

Monday, March 16, 2009

Hypoallergenic Dog

The First Family is looking to adopt a hypoallergenic dog. Yet, there is no true hypoallergenic pet as usually what causes an allergic reaction is the microscopic skin flakes from the animal. Dr. Zaid Jabbar, an allergist with Edward Medical Ground in Bolingbrook, IL, states that the tiny particles cause the immune system to produce antibodies which causes sneezing, a stuffy nose, runny and/or itchy eyes. Each person’s immune system differs and what one family member does not react to another family member might.

There are certain dog breeds that induce fewer allergies. A few of those breeds are Bichon Frise, soft-coated wheaten Terriers, Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, Lhasa apso, Maltese, Schnauzer and Portuguese water dog.

Shelters are a great place for those looking for a possible hypoallergenic dog as fostering is a possibility. Prospective owners would get a chance to test their reactions to their new possible family member in their homes without making the adoption final.

Friday, March 13, 2009

A Premeditating Chimpanzee

A study conducted at a Swedish zoo suggests that some apes can plan ahead like humans through observing the actions of an alpha male chimpanzee at the Furuvik Zoo located 93 miles from Stockholm, Sweden. A report was written by Lund University Ph.D. student Mathias Osvath.

According to the report in the journal of Current Biology, the 31 male chimpanzee, Santino, started collecting rocks and disks from concrete boulders found inside his enclosure. Yet, Santino waited until the middle of the day to bombard visitors with his collection.

Santino was observed tapping on a concrete boulder to find the weak spots so he could knock out a piece of the boulder. If he had a concrete piece that was too big for throwing, he would break it in to smaller pieces before adding it to his ammunition collection. He also collected rocks from the moat in is island enclosure.

Since Santino stayed calm while collecting his arsenal yet was agitated when hurling them suggests that the behavior was not emotionally driven. Osvath states, "It implies that they have a highly developed consciousness, including lifelike mental simulations of potential events." He also acknowledges that there a differences within big chimpanzees and that his observations do not mean that all chimpanzees are capable of advanced planning.

No one was seriously injured as Santino has poor aim and they're probably thankful that he did not include feces amongst his weapons.
Click here to read more on the ScienceDaily web site.

The Antser

Have you ever experienced issues with ants around your furry friend’s food? Have you wondered how to resolve the issue without chemicals?

The Antser Ant-Proof Barrier is the safe way to get rid of ants. Makes your dog or cat's dish ant-free the safe and easy way. It's the pesticide-free, ant bait free alternative in ant control. There is a concealed water barrier that prevents ants from invading your friend’s food. You lift the lid; add a dash of soap, fill up to the water marking then close the lid. This should deter ants for up to 3 months.

This food platform is available in hunter green, beige and blue and made of ABS plastic.
The dimensions of The Antser are 9” x 13” and it weighs about 2 pounds.


To learn more about this item, please click here.

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Health Benefits of Owning a Pet

A recent feature on a CBS network affiliate discussed how further studies are being conducted on the evidence that having a pet has positive benefits to one’s health. Veterinarian R.K. Anderson says, “It’s the human-animal bond”. Over 30 years ago, R.K. Anderson helped found CENSHARE, Center to Study Human Animal Relationships and Environments, at the University of Minnesota.

CENSHARE is devoted to supporting and collecting research on the many positive effects pets have on people. Mentally and physically, pet owners feel the benefits of their animal companion. Research has shown that pet owners reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease. To read more about CENSHARE, click here.


To read more about this subject and to view a video article, please click here
.

According to the CDC, National Center for Disease Control, pets can decrease your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, and feelings of loneliness by increasing your level of exercise, activity and socialization.

To read more on WebMD about specific health benefits, click here.

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Pet of the Week

Harold – Downers Grove, IL

They call me Harold and I’m pleased to make your acquaintance. I'm a medium sized Spaniel Mix that’s a sweet, gentle, boy who's as calm as they come. I was born around 1996 which makes me 13 years young. I'm a little shy around men, but I've grown to love the male volunteers at WSHS quickly. I'm fine around cats and kids over 8 years old. I don't really like other dogs, but I'm house-trained, crate-trained, neutered and I easily walk on a leash. I'm currently in a temporary care home and I'm doing great here. We'd keep each other forever, but my foster family's living situation prevents them from becoming my forever family. Although we'll be really sad when we get split up, they'd love to help me find my forever home. They'd even set up an in-home meeting between you and me! Isn't that great? All you need to do to meet me is call the shelter for more information. It's as simple as that. Don't waste any more time---call them today!

If you'd like to meet me, please contact the West Suburban Humane Society, 1901 W. Ogden Ave, Downers Grove, IL, phone number 630-960-9600.
http://www.wshs-dg.org/wshs/


Piper – Tampa Bay, FL

Hey there, I’m Piper! I’m a real sweet girl waiting for the perfect family. I love to cuddle and get ear and neck rubs. I love to talk to you, and I’ll be the first to let you know when I’m excited or happy. I have beautiful markings, striking green eyes and the softest fur EVER! My tail is a little crooked, but I just think that gives me character and personality. I’m a loving and healthy girl who’d make a wonderful companion. Please come by the shelter and have a visit with me. You won’t be able to deny just how wonderful I am. I’m a Meet Your Match Orange – Personal Assistant.

Name: Piper
ID#: 7114514
Sex: Female
Breed: Domestic Shorthair Mix
Age: 2 years 2 months

For more information please contact the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, 3607 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa FL, 33607, (813) 876-7138.
http://www.humanesocietytampa.org/


Sally – Boca Raton, FL

I'm Sally, a shy but very sweet girl who's also quite unique. I'm a Hemingway cat, with an extra toe on each foot that gives me a 'mitten' look. I'm a 5 year-old sweetie who was surrendered by my owner. Although they love me here, I'll be much happier in a real home because I am a declawed (and spayed) cat, and I'm living with so many other cats here. I tend to stay to myself a bit, maybe because I feel a little intimidated here without means to defend myself. Once you scoop me into your arms, I'll snuggle with you and be the purr-fect companion. I like dogs, and can live with other cats, too. (Just not 100!). Come to meet me today...I'd love to get my beauty rest in your lap!

I’ll wait right here at Tri County Humane Society, 21287 Boca Rio Road, Boca Raton. (561) 482-8110. http://www.tricountyhumane.org/.

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Pennsylvania Kennel Accident

In a freak accident at Pazzazz Pet Boarding kennel, Martha Stewart’s chow puppy, Genghis Khan, was killed on Friday, March 06, 2009. Genghis Khan was one of 17 killed in the accidental propane explosion. Fifteen died instantly and 2 more died over the weekend. The kennel, which is located in eastern PA, breeds and trains show dogs. Genghis Khan was the grandson of Martha’s previous chow, Paw Paw, which passed away in April 2008 at age 12. She adopted him in Dec. 2008 when he was 7 weeks old.

Officials are not sure of the exact cause of the explosion yet think that static electricity or a spark could have ignited the blaze. The propane exploded during a delivery which set the pens on fire and injured the driver, Timothy Kleinhagen. He was badly burned and is listed in critical condition.

Martha stated on her blog that she is deeply saddened by the death of Genghis Khan and that her heart goes out to Karen Tracy (one of the co-owners) and she hopes for a speedy recovery for those (both pets and humans) injured in this terrible event.

Monday, March 9, 2009

Oprah’s Newest Family Member

Sadly, Oprah lost Sophie and Solomen, her beloved cocker spaniels, last year. On Sunday, March 1, 2009, Oprah Winfrey and Stedman Graham adopted a 10 week old Cocker Spaniel puppy from PAWS Chicago. Winfrey named her Sadie. Sadie was introduced to the world on Oprah’s show, Friday, March 5, 2009. Oprah commented, “I’m a mom again.” The show helped find homes for the last three siblings seeking adoption. They were all placed with homes by midday Friday after appearing on the show. Winfrey encouraged viewers to adopt from shelters where many people are giving up pets in these tough economic times.

Sadie was one of 11 puppies and 6 of the litter were brought to one of PAWS Chicago adoption facilities. Sadie’s adoption helped bring attention to PAWS which stands for Pets Are Worth Saving. PAWS is a no kill humane organization founded in 1997. PAWS is a non-profit organization that receives no city,state or federal funding. PAWS owner, Paula Fasseas, said that the web site has been inundated as well as the phones and adoption center. She is thrilled because of the attention that is being brought to the homeless animals. Winfrey sponsors a room at the PAWS Clybourn facility in honor of Sophie and Oprah has been a long time supporter of PAWS Chicago.

If you would like to learn more about PAWS Chicago, please click here.

Friday, March 6, 2009

What's Your Dog's Zodiac Sign?

The Animal Planet web site features Dogscopes which are descriptions of your dog’s nature according to your pet’s birth date. The astrologist is Sherene Schostak who is a Jungian psychotherapist, author and metaphysician.

She states that your dog has feelings too and has more ability to be in touch with the natural forces than you. As proof, she suggests watching your dog around a full moon as they’ll feel the affects more than you.

If your beloved pet was born between the dates of February 19 – March 20, she/he is a Pisces. Your Pisces pet might like to sleep a lot, adapts your mannerisms, enjoys chaos and senses how you are feeling with great empathy.

Click here to see if your dog’s behavior matches their horoscope sign.

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Black Dog Syndrome

Black Dog Syndrome refers to the challenge black dogs face regarding adoption as they usually linger the longest at shelters. Basically, black dogs suffer “low adoption, high euthanasia”. Although it is difficult to find exact statistics on this phenomenon, many animal shelter workers will attest to the existence of this issue. The problem applies to black cats in shelters too.

Potential adopters are usually looking for smaller dogs with light coats. A few other theories for this occurrence are perceived aggressiveness, black animals don’t show well in pictures, superstition of bad luck and shedding concerns as the hair is more visible on furniture, rugs.

Most of the public is not aware that black dogs and cats face such a terrible obstacle. Please raise awareness and note all the loving black dogs and cats when viewing possible additions to your family.

Linda Estrada, president of the Animal Welfare League in Chicago Ridge, IL, reminds people that “you should worry about temperament, personality and if the breed fits in your family well. That’s more important than looks”.

Please click here to read more about Black Dog Syndrome at MSNBC.

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Pet of the Week

Munchkin – Downers Grove, IL

Salutations to you all from me, Munchkin. I’m a black and white DMH female that is around 19 months old. I am spayed yet not declawed. I want to be queen of my castle. That's okay, isn't it? I just don't want to share your affection with any other cats. I was found crossing one of the busiest streets in DeKalb. My rescuers were surprised that no one was looking for me because it was clear that I belonged to someone. They posted fliers all over, but no luck. I am a vocal girl, so we can chat all day if you like. I seek out human attention, none of that independent cat stuff for me. I'd like a family that truly wants a companion, one who will give as much as she gets.

If you'd like to meet me, please contact the West Suburban Humane Society, 1901 W. Ogden Ave, Downers Grove, IL, phone number 630-960-9600.
http://www.wshs-dg.org/wshs/



Cargo – Tampa Bay, FL

Hiya, I’m Cargo! I’m a big ball of fun and personality. I’m quite the character here at the shelter and I’m always putting a smile on someone’s face! I absolutely love TOYS! Squeaky rubber, ropes, or stuffed animals are always good with me. I can seem a little crazy when I first go outside but with a little bit of running time I tend to calm down a bit. Come visit me at the shelter and I promise not to disappoint! TBT—I’m quite the character here at the shelter and I’m always putting a smile on someone’s face. Come meet me and you will see why!

Name: Cargo
ID#: 7180356
Sex: Male
Breed: Labrador, Retriever/Shiba Inu
Age: 3 years

For more information please contact the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, 3607 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa FL, 33607, (813) 876-7138.
http://www.humanesocietytampa.org/



Hanna – Boca Raton, FL

Hello to all, my name is Hanna. I am a 2 year old Mastiff mix female that weighs about 80 lbs. I’m a whole lotta dog with a whole lotta love to give! I’m Hanna, and you will not find a more gentle, loving lady anywhere. In spite of my size, I’m a pleasure to walk on a leash and will often lie down and roll over for a belly rub. I had some pups and now it’s my time to shine, and to be adopted into a forever home. I can live with kids and other dogs, and probably even cats. My soft brown eyes will win you over. I just want to rest my (large) head in your lap and be loved, so come quick!

I’ll wait right here at Tri County Humane Society, 21287 Boca Rio Road, Boca Raton. (561) 482-8110. http://www.tricountyhumane.org/.

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Presidential Pets

Socks, one time presidential kitty, passed away on Feb. 20, 2009. Socks was adopted in 1991 by the Clinton family when he jumped into Chelsea’s arms after a piano lesson in Little Rock, AR. Socks moved in to the White House with the Clinton’s and was the principal Clinton pet until Buddy, a Labrador Retriever, was adopted in 1997. Socks did not get along with Buddy so when the Clinton’s left the White House in 2001, they took Buddy and left Socks to the care of Bill Clinton’s secretary, Betty Currie.

The current presidential family is trying to decide on what type of dog best fits their lifestyle. Michelle Obama leans towards rescuing a Portuguese water dog while other members ponder a Labradoodle, which is a cross between a Labrador retriever and standard Poodle. Portuguese water dog owners are concerned that there will be a spike in popularity in the breed that will taper off leaving many abandoned. Portuguese water dogs are not recommended for first time dog owners as they require extensive training. Stu Freedman, president of the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America, was quoted as stating, “These are dogs that if you don’t keep them busy, they will be busy and do something you don’t want them to do.”

Monday, March 2, 2009

Eukanuba Breedopedia

Are you curious to learn more about your pet’s dog breed in one location? If so, the Eukanuba web site provides breed overview, history, standards, temperament, and special needs in one spot.

Eukanuba provides details on over 300 dog breeds on their web site under a section they call “Breedopedia”.

If you are interested in comparing your current knowledge of your beloved dog, please
click here to visit the Eukanuba learning center.

Although their web site can advise you on the proper food for your cat breed, there is no “breedopedia” for cats yet. To inquire about the nutritional needs for your feline friend, please
click here.

If you have a puppy, you might be interested in enrolling
with the Eukanuba web site to receive a $5.00 off coupon
Eukanuba puppy food. Click here to be taken to the StartSampling sample page where you can click on the Eukanuba puppy food $5.00 coupon link!