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.

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.

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.

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.

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/.

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.”

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!