Labrador retriever. (Nick Ridley/Getty Images)

Labrador Retrievers continue to be America’s most popular dog, according to 2012 registration data from the American Kennel Club (AKC). The Labrador Retriever dynasty began in 1990, which overtook the American Cocker Spaniel (today ranked No. 27 on the AKC list) as top dog.

No doubt, Labradors continue to rank number one because of their generally good-natured personality and versatility. Labs are legendary for being terrific with children, and they can also work as search-and-rescue or service dogs, such as guide dogs for the visually impaired.

Another all around versatile breed, the German Shepherd remains the second most popular breed for the third consecutive year. Favorites since these dogs were first imported to the U.S. from Germany in 1907, German Shepherds haven’t enjoyed this sort of popularity since the days of Rin Tin Tin.

Admittedly, the ranking of any breed can be a bit misleading since overall purebred AKC registrations have been on the decline for several years. Increasingly, people are either adopting mixed-breed dogs from animal shelters, and/or simply not seeing the value of registering their purebred dogs. Still, the data offers some information about breed popularity.

In recent years, the Beagle and Golden Retriever have gone back and forth as the third and fourth most popular breeds. In 2012, the Golden ranked third and the Beagle fourth.

Bulldogs, now settling in as the fifth most popular breed, have a long list of “issues” inherent with the breed, ranging from lots of drooling and snoring to a predisposition for serious illnesses, such as severe allergies, various eye-related issues, severe arthritis and trachea problems.

In 2009, as Bulldogs were in the midst of a meteoric rise in popularity, one veterinarian wondered out loud in a publication for colleagues: “It’s not that no one should own the breed, but (as Bulldogs become more popular) will people have the financial resources to care for them?”

Indeed, few Bulldogs sail through life without an assortment of health problems. However, one might suggest if you can afford to buy one in the first place, perhaps you can also afford a lifetime of medical care. Since Bulldogs are all born cesarean (due to that oversized head), buying one (from a reliable breeder) will set you back at least $3,000, and likely more.

At  number five in popularity, Bulldogs are up from No. 21 on the AKC chart 12 years ago. Each year in the past dozen, they have moved up in status.

Boxers are another breed on the rise, seemingly rediscovered. Back in the ’1970s and ’80s, Boxers were among the most popular family dogs, entrenched in the Top 10. They fell to No. 17 in 1993 before their turnaround, again cracking the Top 10 in 2000 and slowly rising ever since. Today, Boxers are the seventh most popular breed.

At No. 6 is the Yorkshire Terrier, and rounding out the Top 10 are Poodles at No. 8, Rottweilers at No. 9 and Dachshunds at No. 10.

While clearly the Bulldog and Boxer are enjoying a resurgence, the trendiest breed of all is the little Havanese. This relative of the Bichon Frise is today the 28th most popular AKC breed, up from No. 92, barely on the radar, 12 years ago.

In general, at least some small breeds have enjoyed increased popularity over the past 15-20 years. The Havanese is playful and fun, if not downright funny. This is also one of the breeds some people with allergies might more easily tolerate.

One surprise is the Mastiff comeback. In 2012, Mastiffs moved up to No. 26 from No. 34 over the past decade. Similarly, the Bullmastiff is now at No. 39, up from No. 47 a decade ago.

Also enjoying increased popularity are the so-called “bully breeds.” Even as some communities continue to ban any dog that might be deemed a pit bull-type dog, in the past decade Bull Terriers jumped from No. 79 in popularity to their current position at No. 51. Staffordshire Bull Terriers, struggling to stay within the top 100 (at No. 91) a decade ago, and are now at No. 76 and rising. Miniature Bull Terriers has also gone from No. 132 on the AKC chart 10 years ago to No. 126 today.

In all, there are 175 listed AKC breeds. Fox hunting is (happily) not all too common these days. Among the bottom five breeds, three are fox hunters. No.171 is the Harrier, the American Foxhound is No. 172, and the English Foxhound is No. 175. (No. 173 is the Norwegian Lundehund, and No. 174 is the Cesky Terrier).

THE AKC TOP 10

1. Labrador Retriever

2. German Shepherd

3. Golden Retriever

4. Beagle

5. Bulldog

6. Yorkshire Terrier

7. Boxer

8. Poodles

9. Rottweiler

10. Dachshund

(Credit: Getty Images)

Our pets deserve better.  Americans want to do the right thing for their pets — or at least that’s what they say. Yet, despite our love for our pets, veterinary visits are on the decline, especially when it comes to preventive care.

My resolution for 2013 is to play whatever role I can in reversing this disturbing trend.

Many medical problems are on the rise – like flea infestation and heartworm disease, according to the Banfield Pet Hospital State of Pet Health 2011 Report. Both are far more expensive to treat than to prevent.

As flea infestations have risen, so have reports of flea allergy. (Fleas can also spread disease to people.) The treatment for heartworm — which can be fatal — is grueling. For cats, no treatment even exists. Obviously, if pets had a choice, they’d clearly pick prevention over crazily itching from flea allergies or suffering the effects, even succumbing, to heartworm.

According to a study conducted by Bayer Animal Health, a quarter of all pet owners don’t understand the importance of preventive care for pets. The percent of households making no trip at all to a veterinarian in the course of a year increased by eight percent for dogs and a confounding 24 percent for cats compared to five years ago, according to the 2012 American Veterinary Medical Association U.S. Pet Ownership & Demographics Sourcebook.

One viable explanation is that many pet owners have never been educated about the value of preventive pet care. Sure, when the stethoscope comes out, people realize the vet is listening to their pet’s heart; however, I’m not sure how many people realize that heart disease is prevalent and that early diagnosis can make a difference.

Even less clear is all that goes into a routine exam. Most pet owners don’t know that the exam begins as the pet walks into a clinician’s room. The veterinarian checks the pet’s gait for arthritis, even neurological problems. By simply petting a dog or cat, the veterinarian is feeling for lumps, even noting coat quality, an indicator for all sorts of issues. The answers to seemingly benign questions, like “how much does your pet drink?” offer clues to potential diabetes or kidney disease.

Some pet owners believe they would know if their pet was sick. However, this is often false, especially for cats, masters at masking illness. A veterinarian may detect problems an owner can’t, unless the owner has learned to run blood work in their home. Others (as many as 15 percent, according to one survey) feel they can “Google” anything their veterinarian can do.

I don’t deny that in some cases veterinarians are to blame for not communicating the value of visits, pushing clients away with exorbitant fees, or “nickel and diming” them. Overall, however, veterinary medicine remains a relative bargain.  Regardless of the explanations, the decline in veterinary visits is entirely contradictory to what’s in the best interest of our pets.

I welcome your comments and ideas on all sides of the fence on this issue. Email: steve@stevedale.tv. Not only will I be writing about the necessity of preventive veterinary care in 2013, but I’ll also offer your perspectives on the topic as I write for professional publications and speak at veterinary conferences. I hope to be a part of the solution.

(Credit: Gannett / Rochester)

Here are 12 safety tips to insure your pets enjoy a safe and healthy holiday season:

12) Beware Where You Kiss: Hanging mistletoe is fine as long as it’s out of your dog or cat’s reach. Fresh mistletoe is toxic.

11) Meet the Relatives: Some pets are social butterflies, others prefer peace and quiet. A constant flow of relatives can be traumatic for some pets (even more than it is for you). Don’t force the pets to interact with Uncle Fred and Aunt Ethel if they don’t want to.

10) Stressed Out: If you’re struggling to keep up with holiday shopping, attending parties and visiting with out-of-town guests, you may feel like you don’t have a minute to spare, even for your best friend with four legs or feathers. The result: stressed-out pets. Try to maintain at least some of your normal routine: a daily walk with your pup or late night play session with kitty.

9) Candles Burning Bright: Curiosity can kill a cat. If a candle is knocked over, a house fire may start. A pet can also get singed by brushing against a candle. Scented candles can be dangerous for birds, too, due to their sensitive respiratory tracts.

8) Deck the Pets: We all suffer from the ‘grandma syndrome,’ expressing love by feeding our pets treats. The truth is, a little tidbit of turkey, chicken or ham, or slices of carrot or apple, won’t harm your pet. The problem arises when you overdo it. After all, a 150-pound person scarfing five slices of turkey meat is no big deal, and a German shepherd might be able to eat that much without stomach upset (if there’s no fat on the meat). However, a diminutive dog, like a Yorkshire terrier or a cat may pay a price.

Also, be aware that several guests might be simultaneously sneaking food to the pets when you’re not looking. Not only are they teaching your pets to beg, but added together, the combined treats can be too much of a good thing. Too much fat can lead to dangerous pancreatitis. Bones can also splinter and get lodged in a pet’s throat, which can be life threatening.

7) Holiday Treats to Die For: If there are pets around, don’t leave chocolates for Santa. A chemical in chocolate called theobromine can make dogs, cats, or birds very ill. Theobromine is especially prevalent in cooking chocolate or dark chocolate. Raw onion is bad for cats, and avocado can make birds sick, so keep a watchful eye over the guacamole!

6) Tinsel Temptation: Cats love playing with sparkly decorations, and they can knock down an entire Christmas tree as they pull on tinsel or dangling ornaments. Trailing ribbons on the presents underneath are tempting too.

This stuff really does happen. Trupanion, the pet insurance company, offers examples of claims they have had around the holidays: A 5-month old pup, named Gordon, swallowed some ribbon. After x-rays, surgery, and medication, his total vet bill came to $2,800.  Save money, and maybe your pet’s life by keeping tinsel and ribbon away.

5) Keep Cats Off: A small lattice-work fence around the base of your tree will prevent cats from climbing up the branches. Still, don’t take a chance with glass ornaments. They’re pretty – display them where pets can’t knock them over.

4) No Sugar Plums in the Water: Don’t add chemical preservatives or anything else to the water sitting at the base of your tree to help your tree last longer. Likely, plain water works best anyway. So, homemade family recipes with everything from a Vitamin C to bleach to birth control pills (I’ve heard it all) won’t work. And drinking that stale water, especially if there’s an additive, can give a pet an upset tummy. Use a tree-skirt to block pets from reaching this water.

3) Good Housekeeping: Some pets, especially puppies and kittens, like to munch on fallen Christmas tree needles. They can choke on them or suffer serious tummy upset. Birds can perch on plastic trees, but they shouldn’t be allowed to munch on the plastic needles.

2) Avoid Prickly Christmas Trees: When choosing a tree, consider one with pet-friendly pliable needles, such as a Douglas fir or white pine. These needles won’t stick in your pet’s paws. (They’re also easier to vacuum up.)

1) Pets Deserve Presents, Too: As you gather to open presents, welcome all members of the family, including those with fur and feathers.

Happy Holidays!

Credit: Evert Elzinga / AFP / Getty Images

Pet lovers crave a good dog read….new pet books – which make great gifts for pet loving friends – range from a coffee table volume filled cute as can be puppy portraits to a book filled with touched by a canine angel tales to author offering alternative and sometimes controversial approaches to pet care.

Puppyhood: Life-Size Portraits of Puppies at 6 Weeks Old  by J. Nichole Smith (Stewart, Tabori & Chang, New York, NY,2012; $29.95). Now, this is a coffee table book!. The giant book is indeed life size, and so are the photos inside of 25 breeds (well, in truth, Yorkipoo’s and Labradoodle’s are not breeds). It’s interesting to look at the wide range of puppies, from German Shepherd Dogs to Miniature Pinchers.  Want cute? Here’s cute on steroids.

What’s a Dog For? The Surprising History, Science, Philosophy and Politics of Man’s Best Friend by John Homans (Penguin Press, New York, NY, 2012; $25.95).  This is complex stuff, but presented in a really to understand way, from Homans, editor of New York Magazine. The connection between people and dogs may be innate in both species; Homans offers evidence that people and dogs co-evolved. As evidence, though chimpanzees aren’t as bright as dogs, it’s dogs who far more quickly pick up on our cues (without training). Homans even tackles controversial topics ranging from American Kennel Club breed standards to the plight of dogs referred to as pit bulls.

The Divinity of Dogs: True Stories of Miracles Inspired by Man’s Best Friend by Jennifer Skiff (Atria Books, New York, NY, 2012; $24). Tissue alert, but in a good way. This is an uplifting book, perfect for this time of year. All these inspiring ‘touched by a dog’ true stories are heartwarming, and filled with pure joy – the kind of innocent and absolute joy which dogs offer and inspire.

Another Insane Devotion: On the Love of Cats and Persons by Peter Trachtenberg. (DeCapo Press, Boston, MA, 2012; $24). It all begins as a soap opera, with his marriage failing, his wife leaves for a residency in Italy. But it gets worse – his cat, Biscuit, takes off. And that’s a loss which the author just can’t deal with. Then on Christmas….No more will be said here for fear of spoiling, let’s just say the ending isn’t a sad one.

Dancing Dog Stories by Jon Katz (Ballantine Books, New York, NY, 2012; $24). This is the author’s latest in a long line of dog books. Here, Katz offers – as only he can – 16 short true stories about dogs, and our relationships with them. Story settings are rural in nature, and as a bonus one is even about a barn cat.

Buddy: How a Rooster Made Me a Family Man by Brian McGrory (Crown Publishers, New York, NY, 2012; $24). Typically, man’s best friend is canine, or certainly cats can be contenders, but a rooster? At first, the author is more a adversary to the rooster, who sees him as an intruder. McGrory moves in with Pam, who is a veterinarian with a menagerie. The city boy has to adjust, and it’s not easy. A rooster rival doesn’t make let up on poor McGrory. In time though, McGrory comes to call the rooster his mentor. This is a laugh out loud read.

The Royal Treatment: A Natural Approach to Wildly Health Pets by Dr. Barbara Royal (Atria Books, New York, NY, 2012; $25). Controversial to be sure, it’s unlikely the majority of veterinarians will agree with much of Royal’s approach. The press materials highlight this statement: “It’s hard not to feel frustrated with the pet food industry and the hidden dangers of ignoring our pet’s dietary needs. We can certainly do better.” She offers raw food diets in the book. Many veterinary nutritionists have expressed concerns about such diets. The book is touted as East meets West in veterinary medicine, but Royal leans East, and leans her own way. Don’t assume the Royal way the right way. Still, for those interested in alternative approaches to pet care, this former zoo veterinarian may be a savior.

A pet goat and sheep enjoy green grass in Rwanda. Pet owners even take these lovable animals on walks. (Credit: Steve Dale)

It turns out that Kigali – a booming metropolis of 11.5 million — is quite safe, compared to U.S. major city standards. And there’s nearly no trash or litter in Kigali; plastic bags are banned.

Dogs and cats are hard to find, too. But there are pets. In the city outskirts and countryside, children use leashes to take their goats for walks. The animals have names. They have value. And though the goats don’t sleep indoors (happily), they’re well cared for, even loved.

CATS HAVE NEVER been a part of Rwandan culture. I asked around, but no one seemed to know why. It’s not that cats are poorly thought of; they just haven’t been considered. As Americans and Europeans influence culture, particularly in a big city like Kigali, there’s an increasing interest in “getting a cat.”

High in the mountains, near the lush forest homes of the mountain gorillas, we stayed at the Virunga Lodge where a pet cat, Puss, resides. Puss has a pretty darn good life. There’s no shortage of love, food or entertainment. Tourists (like me), missing their own cats, can ask for handouts from the kitchen and snuggle with Puss, who clearly enjoys the attention. Kitchen staff offers up whatever Puss wants, and there are lots of lizards and birds around for variety.

Should Puss become sick or injured, I can’t imagine there’s much veterinary care in the Rwandan countryside. Veterinary care and commercial pet food remain luxuries few can afford.

DOGS WERE ONCE quite popular in Rwanda, even in the poorest areas. They might have roamed from home to home for handouts, and sometimes picked in the trash, though they most certainly never shared beds with people. But they had names and were loved.

So, what happened?

The genocide impacted Rwandans’ views of dogs. As huge numbers of people fled their homes, often leaving the country, they could not take their dogs along. Many dogs were left homeless and without caretakers. Entire neighborhoods, or even villages, were sometimes wiped out, leaving dogs behind. With nothing else to eat, the animals either starved or scavenged on what they could find to survive, including human remains. When the genocide ended, dogs were vilified for this practice. This disgust lingers in Rwandan culture. Thankfully, dogs seem to be making a gradual comeback.

I spotted only a few dogs during my stay. When I asked one owner about his mixed-breed pooch, he told me the dog’s name. I’m sure he wondered why a tourist would jump out of his vehicle to talk with him about his dog, of all things. The neighbors stared. But instead of quizzing me about my odd interest, he asked if I’d be interested in buying an entire litter of puppies! I declined.

Jeanne Potter, a San Diego veterinarian who was part of our Terra Incognita Ecotours group in the area to see the mountain gorillas, noted, “It’s really impressive how the culture and society are mending (after the genocide). I think the healing power of pets can help. I won’t be surprised if in time dogs will make a comeback.”

Mountain gorillas in Rwanda. (Credit: Steve Dale)

The planet’s estimated 780 mountain gorillas are found in the rich mountain forests of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda and Rwanda.

“Our job is to improve the sustainability of the mountain gorillas,” explained Dawn Zimmerman, regional manager of the non-profit Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project. Zimmerman presented a Powerpoint program recently for a group of ecotourists (including this columnist) traveling with Terra Incognita Ecotours at the Virunga Lodge in Rwanda before a first morning of trekking to see the gorillas.

There’s little doubt that tourists have saved the mountain gorillas from extinction, noted Zimmerman.

While a civil war and lack of infrastructure for Western tourists have kept DRC out of the picture, Uganda and Rwanda have it figured out.

Gorilla tourism in Rwanda totals about $250 million annually. There are about 250 gorillas in the country, so that makes each ape worth a cool million to Rwanda’s needy economy. Those dollars go toward much more than saving gorillas. Jobs are provided (for porters, trekkers and guides, as well as those who work at Virunga Lodge and other tourist lodging). Some dollars are invested in Rwanda’s future, benefiting a school not far from where the gorillas live.

Zimmerman added that saving gorillas also means saving other imperiled species living in the same forests, including the rare golden monkeys.

Dian Fossey, subject of the 1988 movie Gorillas in the Mist, made the Gorilla Project’s success possible. Fossey was among the first to study the gentle giants in the 1970s. When she arrived, the frightening image of King Kong persisted. Then Fossey showed just how peaceful these vegetarian apes are. She also demonstrated that gorilla troops could be habituated to people (though at the time she disdained the idea of tourists).

In fact, some mountain gorillas seen today by tourists are descendants of those Fossey first habituated. Because they are comfortable with people, tourists can enter the forests where the gorillas live to observe them close-up. The gorillas accept their audience, seemingly ignoring the constant camera clicks, videotaping and sometimes-giddy tourists too excited to whisper.

Still, there are threats. While Rwanda and Uganda have pretty much eliminated the poaching of gorillas, Zimmerman says traps are sometimes set for small antelopes. Incredibly, some gorillas have learned to dismantle the snares, but others sometimes get caught in them. That’s when Zimmerman and her team head out to free gorillas and treat their resulting wounds.

The most significant and surprising threat may originate from the very ecotourists who provide for the gorillas’ protection.

“Being such a close relative to people, gorillas are susceptible to many of the same viruses and infectious disease that we are — and often more susceptible since they don’t have any immunity to these things,” Zimmerman notes.

Ecotourists noted coughing gorillas on a recent trek. Veterinarians will treat the gorillas as best they can, but it’s not an easy job, and the work can be dangerous. While gorillas are peaceful, male silverbacks defend their troop, and mothers protect their babies.

Zimmerman said a silverback once charged her, but she stood her ground — not an easy thing to do with an angry, 400-pound gorilla running right at you. “I could feel his breath on my face,” she says.

On another occasion, a veterinarian treated a gorilla’s injured hand. Later, the veterinarian returned -– for a follow-up — and the silverback actually extended the hand, as if to say, “It’s OK now.”

The Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project is a non-profit, funded in part by the University of California-Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, www.gorilladoctors.org.

Dog of the Year, Fiona, Kid of the Year, 10-year-old Declan Gregg, and Cat of the Year, Scooter, pose for a picture at the luncheon.

Animal heroes, individuals and organization who have shown incredible efforts and commitment to animal welfare enjoyed a lunch and a special greeting from ASPCA president, Ed Sayres, during the event.  The ASPCA Humane Awards, which are presented in six distinct categories and include Dog of the year, Cat of the Year, Tommy P. Monahan Kid of the Year Award, Public Service Award, Henry Bergh Award and the Presidential Service Award, received special recognition at the event.

“The ASPCA continues to be astounded by the bravery and compassion of this year’s Humane Awards winners,” said Ed Sayres.  “Each honoree exemplifies our mission of preventing cruelty to animals in their own unique ways, and we are humbled by their achievements and dedication to the animals who count on us to be their voice.”

But the luncheon wasn’t just open to pet lovers – the animals themselves were able to enjoy the event.  Dog of the Year, Fiona, and Cat of the Year, Scooter, were among the luncheon’s guests, which also included many of New York’s society and philanthropic community.

Other guests included anchorman Chuck Scarborough and wife Ellen, philanthropist and heiress Georgina Bloomberg and The Today show’s Jill Rappaport who was the recipient of the Presidential Service Award for media excellence.

Click here to learn more about the ASPCA Humane Awards winners.

Credit: American Lyme Disease Foundation

For much of the country the leaves are changing color and before long snow may drop from the sky. We tend to think that once cool air blows in, tick protection is no longer important. But that’s not so, says Dr. Christopher Carpenter, executive director of the Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC).

Carpenter explains that Lyme disease is transmitted by deer ticks to dogs in a different way than to people. It’s nymph stage ticks that typically put the bite on people, while adult deer ticks are the culprit with dogs. The nymph stage is most active in spring and summer; dogs are most susceptible to ravenous adult ticks in fall and winter.

With a foot of snow on the ground there’s no need to worry about ticks. But on seasonal days – even if it’s moderately cold – ticks come out to feed on our best friends.

If you live where there’s endemic Lyme disease, Carpenter says, ask your veterinarian about the vaccine for Lyme. And be sure to think about where you might travel with your pets for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

For fall, the CAPC Lyme Disease Forecast indicates:

1.  Continued high risk and expansion in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region.

2.  Continued expansion of high-risk areas in the upper Midwest, including large portions of most of the Great Lake states.

3.  Increasing risk in the Southeastern United States, including areas traditionally considered free of Lyme disease.

4.  Significant geographic expansion of the disease along the West Coast.

As any person with Lyme can confirm, having Lyme disease is no fun – and it’s the same with dogs. Carpenter says Lyme disease can cause Lyme nephritis (a rare and potentially fatal inflammation of the kidney). Certainly, Lyme disease can lead to chronic pain, and other problems requiring medications for a lifetime.

Lyme is one only threat. There’s a long list of nasty-sounding tick diseases. Sometimes ticks share a medley of nasty organisms – dramatically impacting the quality of life for a dog forever with just one bite.

“This is why the Companion Animal Parasite Council feels very strongly about year-round protection,” says Carpenter, “It’s definitely worth the investment.”

What are the odds? Well, tick diseases are spreading, occurring in places where they hadn’t previously and occurring with greater frequency. There are lots of reasons. Burgeoning wildlife population plays a role; also sprawling suburbia has transported people closer to tick-carrying wildlife. Weather might play a role. Big cities aren’t immune; as people take their dogs for weekend country escapes they return home from with unintended passengers who fall off in city parks and often thrive.

Learn more via the Companion Animal Parasite Council at www.petsandparasites.org.

The patients and therapists at Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago are sure to remember the little black-and-white dog named Lucy, who made them laugh.

Many people might think of the gymnasium-sized room at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago as a sad place.

Here where a teenage gunshot victim is learning to walk again, an older women is working hard to come back from a stroke, a young boy is recovering from a brain surgery and a young man is dealing with a spinal cord injury following an accident. They were joined by professional therapists, family members and – and dogs.

But not our dog. At least not yet. On this day, traffic had been terrible and we were running late. When we arrived, the session had already begun. We wanted to slip in quietly, but there’s never any sneaking in with our dog Lucy. As the program leader was answering a serious question, in strolled Lucy, instantly announcing, “Wha hoo!”

No matter what anyone’s personal problems happened to be, the entire room roared with laughter. Our miniature Australian Shepherd repeated her greeting, then spontaneously decided that those gathered needed to hear a song, so she began to sing. Lucy’s disruption on that day — and on most days she participated in animal-assisted therapy — was welcomed. Patients who didn’t feel much like laughing before she arrived, were now bowled over with pure joy.

A few minutes later, each patient in the room was paired with a dog. Animal-assisted therapy is goal directed by medical professionals, who may suggest tossing a ball to increase arm strength, for example.

We were teamed with the woman who’d had a stroke. For about 40 minutes, she petted Lucy (who was lying on a table at her side), talking on and on about her grandchildren, a recipe for peach pie, her neighbors in Indiana and the weather. About 30 minutes into the talkfest, my wife, Robin, turned and noticed two physical therapists pointing and looking more than a little surprised, even amazed.

As the session ended, they approached and pointed out to the patient, “This entire time you were petting the dog with the arm affected by the stroke.”

“I was?” the woman said, less impressed by that than by Lucy’s soft coat. “She’s so soft and sweet. My cousin once had a dog like this,” she recalled, launching into yet another story.

The therapists later explained that this patient had been so focused on what she thought she couldn’t do, that they’d hit a brick wall and were at a loss about how to advance her therapy. She was depressed and reticent about talking. Apparently, she was so distracted by petting Lucy that she naturally began to do what people do around dogs — let her guard down.

Some stories about animal-assisted therapy dogs are dramatic: Someone who never spoke following a brain injury or some other trauma does so only in the presence of a dog. Someone else is “awakened” from a coma by a barking dog. Other tales are more low-key, but just as compelling, as was ours that day.

All these years later, the patients and therapists in that room at Rehab Institute may not recall my name or Robin’s, but they’re sure to remember the little black-and-white dog named Lucy, who made them laugh.

The American Humane Association will sponsor the second annual Hero Dog Awards Nov. 8 on the Hallmark Channel. Top dogs have been nominated in eight categories: Guide Dog, Service Dog, Military Working Dogs, Hearing Dog, Emerging Hero Dog, Law Enforcement/Arson Dog, Search and Rescue Dog, and Therapy Dog. Check out the participants and vote for America’s No. 1 Hero Dog at www.herodogawards.org.

Last May, we lost Lucy, who was just shy of her 16th birthday. To help remember her, we began the Lucy Fund with the American Humane Association to help sponsor the Hero Dog Award for Therapy Dog. With support from Pfizer Animal Health, American Humane has supported recent studies to better understand the work therapy dogs can do, particularly for children with cancer.

I hope that in Lucy’s memory readers will consider a contribution to support the Therapy Dog Award. Learn more at www.americanhumane.org/lucyfund.

Recalled Boots & Barkley American Beef Bully Sticks. (Credit: FDA)

Boots & Barkley American Beef Bully Sticks have been recalled by Kasel Associated Industries of Denver. The six-count, 5-inch American Beer Bully Sticks may be contaminated with Salmonella and –pets who have consumed these treats are at risk for salmonella poisoning, as well as humans who have handled the product.

According to a press release by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued on Friday, the State of Colorado Department of Agriculture performed routine sampling, which revealed that the finished beef sticks contained the Salmonella bacteria.  The recalled American Beef Bully Sticks were distributed through Target stores across the country from April to September 2012.

Pets infected with Salmonella often suffer from diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, fever, or vomiting.  Some pets suffer from decreased appetites, fever and abdominal pain.   Although no illnesses have been reported to date in animals or humans in connection to the recall, pet owners should contact their veterinarian if their pet has consumed American Beef Bully sticks and suffers from any of these symptoms.

If you have any questions regarding this recall, contact Kasel Associated Industries at 1-800-218-4417 Monday thru Friday from 7am to 5pm MDT.

Some of the featured dogs take it slow at first with the unfamiliar coverings on their paws and then flop around in their new shoes.  One owner described her dog as performing an interpretive dance – moving about the room frantically.

Check out 12 Adorably Clumsy Dogs Wearing Shoes featured on Mashable.com.

Seeing these pooches in their new booties will be sure to make any pet lover’s day.

Memorial services for deceased pets are becoming more common. Photo by Matthew Staver

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is difficult and emotional, but according to an article by Bloomberg Businessweek, there’s never been a better time to honor a dead pet.  The Atlanta-based International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories – the nonprofit behind National Pet Memorial Day – says the options for pet owners to honor and memorialize their animals are expanding drastically.  Everything from pet blessings to candlelight vigils.  Our furry friends deserve the best and many pet owners are taking advantage of these services.

Nationwide there are about 700 pet aftercare facilities that include cemeteries, crematories, and funeral homes. Bob Walczyk, who owns and operates both a human funeral business and one for pets – Forever Friends – in Green Bay, Wis., told Bloomberg, “When people come to the funeral home and I tell them how much it is to cremate their grandfather, it’s never cheap enough for them. They’ll say, ‘How much? You’ve got to be kidding me!’ But when the exact same family brings their dog next door, they don’t even ask about money. They just tell me what they want and they take out their checkbook.” Pet owners want their animals to be put to rest peacefully.

In addition to these facilities, pet grieving has become an online market. Peternity, for example, is an online superstore for pet grieving. The site offers everything from pet headstones to urns and garden sculptures to stained glass portraits.  So pet owners, bid farewell to your four-legged friend when it’s time, with love – whether that includes a memorial service or a quiet burial in your backyard.

Duhamel didn’t grow up with pets; his first pet came as an adult. He was about 30 when he purchased a Dachshund named Zoe. But the problem about Dachshunds is that they’re like potato chips, you can’t have only one. Duhamel laughs and agrees. “We really wanted a companion for Zoe,” he recalls.

So, that’s what he and wife Fergie did. They adopted a second Dachshund, which they named Meatloaf. “He looked like a little Meatloaf,” the Transformers star says.

Duhamel clearly loved both of his dogs. “Zoe is a spoiled Hollywood dog – has everything a dog might have,” he says. ”Meatloaf, though was special. It’s as if he really appreciated being rescued. There was just something so soulful about him. It made me think about all the wonderful dogs just like him that are available for adoption.”

In April, Duhamel and Fergie lost their little friend to a degenerative brain disease. “We were careful to do the best we could to insure that he never suffered,” he says.

The loss had an effect on Duhamel. That’s one reason why he wanted to help PetSmart Charities, which is celebrating five million pets adopted since 1994 with a campaign cheered by Duhamel called High-Five for Pet Adoption.

For the summer, Duhamel is off to North Carolina to shoot a movie. Duhamel says he could add to his family. Does that mean he and Fergie will start a human family? “Don’t go sounding like a tabloid writer,” he says and laughs. “You know, pets are members of the family too.”

Learn more about pet adoption, at www.petsmartcharities.org. or text PETS to 80888* to donate. Share your adoption stories, http://www.petsmartcharities.org/how-to-help/share-your-pet-adoption-story.html.

The tour, which is held during the Conference of the American Veterinary Medical Association, continues through September with stops in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Kansas City, New York and Los Angeles with a big bus going from city to city.

In addition to featuring local pets up for adoption, there will be veterinarians and other experts answering behavior questions.

Poor behavior – like dogs barking constantly or cats thinking outside their litter boxes – is a common reason people give up on their pets.

Solutions to fix behavior problems run the gamut – ranging from pheromone products, nutritional supplements, behavior modification and sometimes anti-anxiety drugs. “The bottom line is that qualified help is available,” says veterinary behaviorist Dr. Debra Horwitz, who will appear in the many of the cities – a rock star when it comes to pet behavior.

A recent study shows bringing a pet to work helps reduce stress levels.

Employers: looking to keep your employees productive?

Employees: interested in a stress-free, happy work environment?

Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Business may have found a tail-wagging method for both. According to a recent preliminary study published in the InternationalJournal of Workplace Health Management, dogs in the workplace can help sooth workers and actually improve their efficiency.

Randolph Barker (yes, that is his real name), a professor of management at VCU, analyzed the results of three test groups: workers who had dogs in their workspace, personnel who left their pups at home and employees who did not own a mutt. In all, 75 workers’ stress levels and work productivity were studied, with fascinating findings.

“People who brought their dogs during the day, their stress stayed low and continued low during the day,” Barker says. “People who had dogs but didn’t bring them with them to the office, their stress continued to rise significantly higher than those who brought the dogs and those who had no pets.”

And the employees without pets? They experienced increased stress, but not nearly as high as the dog owners’ without man’s best friend at work.

While the dogs pacified grueling days at work, the findings also suggested, to some extent, the hounds actually improved work productivity. About half of the group who brought the dogs to their work station reported their presence improved their work output, while the other half maintained that their work production was unchanged, Barker says.

Barker says the mutts had a slightly more tangible effect, too: increased work socialization. “The dogs became a communication energizer,” he says. “They became that connection that helped people talk to each other.”

The verdict is still out on the impact of cats. Barker means no disrespect to feline-philes — he can only cover one animal at a time.

Will petting the office dog replace smoking breaks? “What’s interesting is that there’s so much stress that contributes to burnout and chronic diseases,” notes Barker. “Pet presence can serve as a low-cost wellness center.”

Thundershirts can be calming.

Steve Dale, certified dog and cat behavior consultant and USA WEEKEND pet expert, knows how to help dogs with thunderstorm anxiety — a common problem in this summer’s sweltering weather.

Ever deal with a 2-year-old who’s afraid of thunderstorms? It’s not easy because you can’t really reason with them. But the kid might get the gist of what you’re trying to convey.

Now, try that with a dog. I don’t think your dog will understand your reasoning that the storm won’t harm him. Thunderstorm anxiety gets so bad it can be contagious – your dog begins to get anxious about a storm coming time and again, and you eventually become so worried about your terrified dog that you get anxious about storms, too. Really – that actually happens.

The good news is that you can help pets who have thunderstorm anxiety by using advice I’ve reported.

• Dogs die in hot cars: Dogs suffer heat stroke and sometimes die as a result of literally roasting in hot cars. According to the AAA Chicago Motor Club, if it’s 85 degrees outdoors, even when the windows are open a crack, the dashboard can heat up to 170 degrees in less than 15 minutes. Dogs aren’t as efficient at cooling themselves as people. In many areas, it’s against the law to keep a pet (or a baby, of course) shut inside a hot car. In some places this law (like many animal cruelty laws) is more enforced than in others. Certainly, if the car is parked at a store, simply fetching the owner from the store can save a life.
• Color and size matter: Larger dogs have more difficulty with the heat, and so do darker-colored dogs which radiate the heat. Light colored coats generally reflect the heat.
• Exercise: Some dogs play fetch, and simply know when enough is enough; they stop. Others will fetch forever because they want to please us. It’s your job as an adult to step and say, “enough, game over.” This is why an adult in the household needs to be aware of the pets’ activities. If the dogs appear too hot, they probably are.
• Yard time: For dogs out in the yard for any extended period of time – which is not the best idea in the first place – shade and water are necessary. If you run with your dog – even a short distance – the best bet is an early morning jog. Or hit the track after sunset when the temperatures aren’t as hot and the sun isn’t shining. Be sure to bring water for your dog (and for you).
• Splash this: If you’re on a boat, life preservers for dogs are a good idea. Just as they save human lives, they may do the same for even good canine swimmers. While many dogs might know how to jump into a pool for a few laps, the problem is getting out of the pool. Also, never allow Pugs, Pekingese and other swimming-impaired dogs near a pool without adult supervision. It’s rare for them to enthusiastically jump in (Labrador style), but they can fall into the pool – and get into trouble very fast.
• Cats in trees:  In most places, if you phone the local sheriff or fire department to fetch a cat up a tree, you may hear an operator say, “You’ve gotta be kidding.” If you manage to convince emergency personnel to respond, you’ll likely be charged a fee. Be patient. Veterinary clinics rarely report treating cats who have fallen from trees. Emergency rooms, however, do treat people who have fallen trying to rescue feline friends. Entice kitty with a can of tuna left at lower branches or at the base of the tree; walk away and wait for hunger to overcome fear.
• Asphalt: Hot asphalt can literally scorch dog paws.
• Rodenticides: Pets who have eaten rodent poison may emit a sour gassy smell, and have sudden muscle tremors or bleeding from the nose or stool. See your veterinarian immediately. It’s very helpful to know exactly what kind of rodenticide your dog has ingested.

Hear Dr. Mike Cavanaugh, executive director and CEO of the American Animal Hospital Association, speak about summer pet safety on my national radio show, Steve Dale’s Pet World.

Handout image

USA WEEKEND contributing editor Steve Dale talks with Bret Michaels about pet toys, how a dog saved his life, and why he loves rats.

Bret Michaels, the 2010 winner of Celebrity Apprentice and front man for the heavy metal group Poison, is showing his love of animals with a new line of pet toys and accessories, called Pets Rock, available in stores and online at PetSmart.

Michaels, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when he was 6, says he’s been a huge animal lover his entire life, and more than once a dog has awakened him from low blood sugar crashes while sleeping.

 In 1990, Michaels was on the road in his tour bus as Nicholas, his Siberian Husky, responded to something unusual. “I don’t know if Nicholas picked up on a scent or saw me getting increasingly restless in bed,” he recalls. “I was about to go into insulin shock and I might have died if he didn’t jump on the bed and alert my manager who gave me orange juice and a Glucagon shot” to increase blood glucose.

Michaels grew up with animals around him. Today, his menagerie includes:

• German shepherd dogs Diesel and Phoenix
• Horses Bo and Ness
• Rats Harley and Charlie. He waxes nostalgic of Marley and Chester, pet rats who have passed away.

“I’m telling you rats are smart, clean and friendly – it’s not like Ben and Willard – they’re unbelievable,” says Michaels. “We need to create some rat toys.”

Michaels says that he had a hand in designing everything and then the “pet experts” ensured the products will be safe. There are stylish T-shirts for dogs – one with a skull and crossbones. Of course, Michaels’ trademark bandanas are replicated so pets can wear them.

In the fall, he plans a new line – for cats, called Look What the Cat Dragged In.

And he’s still not ruling out toys for pet rats. “Listen man, if you’ve never lived with rats – you can’t know how cool they are.”

Steve Dale is a certified dog/cat behavior consultant and contributing editor USA WEEKEND. Read more about him here.

Photo: Bob Donnan, for USA TODAY

This growing trend (it’s been around since 1999) celebrates pets and encourages adoption. This year, Take Your Dog to Work Day is June 22.

Health benefits from our four-legged friends:

• They help you chill out. “Holding a pet triggers a relaxation response,” says Alan Beck, Sc.D, director of the Center for the Human-Animal Bond at Purdue University. Not only are you more relaxed, you’re also less worried because you’re “focused on the present.”
• Pets make you happier, help with depression. Studies show that interactions with pets release “feel good” brain chemicals serotonin and dopamine. With this release or increase of serotonin (the chemical linked to depression),  people become more mentally alert, have improved sleep and may be less sensitive to pain, according to a South African study, reported on by MSNBC.com.
• “People experience less stress when their pets were with them than when a spouse, family member or close friend was nearby,” according to a study reported on by Women’s Day.
• They help decrease your blood pressure, triglyceride and cholesterol levels, according to the CDC.
•  Dog owners get more exercise, according to several studies featured on NIH.gov. They’re “more physically active and less likely to be obese.”
• The NIH studies also found that pet owners are friendlier because pets (dogs, in particular) “help[s] you stay socially connected.” This is important because social relationships  are linked to  longer, mentally-healthy life.
• They lend a helping hand.  Service dogs can be trained to detect blood sugar levels as well as assist with a multitude of disabilities. (Remember our cover story?)

In 2011, roughly 1.4 million pet owners brought their dogs to work every day, according to American Pets Product. Here’s a list of employers that let dogs clock in every day:

• Google
• Amazon.com
• Authentic Entertainment
• P&G Pet Care: This label owns brands including Iams and Eukanuba.
• Ben & Jerrys
• Humane Society headquarters
• Clif Bar & Company

Will your office celebrate Take Your Dog to Work Day on June 22? Let us know. And visit Pet Sitters International’s Take Your Dog to Work Day announcements page to learn how pet owners celebrated with pets all week (from June 18 – 22).

Pet lovers can enter by recording their adoption story directly on the contest page or uploading a previously recorded video. Submissions will be accepted through July 16, 2012.  Need inspiration? Watch Josh Duhamel talk about pet adoption.

By Jessica Rinaldi, for USA TODAY

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, about five to seven million pets are admitted to U.S. animal shelters each year, and about three to four million are euthanized. ASPCA states that in shelters, about five out of 10 dogs and seven out of 10 cats are put down because no one adopts them.

As part of the new initiative, PetSmart Charities and more than 2000 animal rescue programs aim to raise $250,000, to save about 10,000 pets. PetSmart Adoption Centers have rescued an average of about 400,000 pets every year since the organization was founded in 1994.

Pepe the Pug from 'The UnAddoptables,' a series on The Pet Collective YouTube channel. Photo: The Pet Collective YouTube

Want to distract yourself with adorable and entertaining videos of pets? Then visit The Pet Collective on YouTube for several unique mini-series featuring your favorite furry, feathered and scaly friends.

There’s something for everyone:

Growing Up Wild is an early stand-out with at least one pet enthusiast. It stars the animal-friendly Irwin family, who happen to live at the Australia Zoo. The children of late Crocodile Hunter TV personality Steve Irwin — Robert, 8, and Bindi, 13 — educate others about conservation and animal safety. “Every time we lose an animal species, it’s like losing a brick from the house,” Bindi says. “Pretty soon, the house just falls over.”

Tissue-Warning! The Unadoptables focuses on pets getting a second chance at finding forever homes. Through tales of pets waiting for adoption, you’ll learn all about responsible pet ownership — and will likely go through a box of Kleenex.

The Litter is the tale of Momma and her newborn kittens: Bovie, Halfstash, Pizza, Spaceship, Tabitha Apple and Wilbur. The series, narrated by Khloe Kardashian, follows the curious kittens as they grow up. Meow!

What some pet owners do for their four-legged family members is the subject of Master And Pet, a scripted comedy featuring a very loving pet owner with a sometimes judgmental cat named Tony.

For a quick pick-me-up, check out Kitten on a Keyboard. Anime the cat, narrates this video that features tech savvy cats and the silly things they do. Find our favorite video here.

How to protect pets in the sun:
You remember to lather your family and yourself with SPF during the summer, but it’s easy to forget protecting the furriest family member from the sun. Ann Hohenhaus, a veterinarian featured on Vetstreet.com, advises pet owners to use “broad spectrum” sunscreen for themselves and their pets to block harmful rays. Most important: Never use sunscreens with zinc oxide and salicylates on pets. Hohenhaus explained zinc oxide is toxic to dogs and salicylates can harm cats. Her recommendation: BullFrog brand, which does not contain either chemical.

By Glenn Grainger, Zebra Studios/HO

More ways from Vetstreet to protect your pet:

• When purchasing your summer sunglasses, find some for your pooch, too. One option: Doggles,  protective dog eyewear that block out harmful UV rays.
• Create a shady play spot. Install a sun cover over outdoor pet play areas to move pets out of direct sunglight.
• The easiest sun block: Keep pets indoors from 1o a.m. to 2 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest.

March of the bears:
As summer temperatures increase, the number of bears in unexpected places increases, too. Unusual bear sightings have occurred from Orlando, Fla., to Cape Cod, Mass., at events including a middle school graduation and a wedding reception. Randy Hampton from the Colorado Department of Parks and Wildlife told ABC News that dry air may compel the bears to wander farther for “natural food sources.” Captured bears are relocated back to their natural habitat.

Tail toy time:
It’s difficult to decide what’s cuter in this video – the curious baby or the patient cat. What’s obvious is that watching the baby chase the cat’s tail is the ultimate combination of cute. Be careful viewing this video in the workplace: Uncontrollable exclamations of “Awwww!” may occur.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gchWIbeVn0w&version=3&hl=en_US]

By ROBYN BECK, AFP/Getty Images

Have you ever caught a glimpse of Fido, his head out the car window (remember this video?) or seen a dog wedged between a steering wheel and owner? Safety officials – for people and pets – now say you should restrain your pet.  ”You wouldn’t put your child in the car unrestrained, so you shouldn’t put your pet in the car unrestrained,” Col. Frank Rizzo, superintendent of  the New Jersey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says. “Animals act like flying missiles in an impact,” Rizzo adds. Currently, only a few states have passed legislation requiring animal restraints.

Pet safety in cars

• Purchase a dog harness that can clip into a seat belt, according to CanineAuto.com.
• Consider using a pet travel carrier (for cats too!), or putting up a travel barrier, according to PetAutoSafety.com.
• Visit the ASPCA website for additional travel safety tips.

Pet cougar kills dog

Charlie, 10, is “a big baby,” says his Florida owner Rob Gard. But when the 275 pound pet cougar escaped more than a week ago, he killed a neighborhood dog who had wandered onto the property. Gard blames the dog: “You’ve got a big cat, and you’ve got a dog that was after his food,” Gard says. “He [Charlie] was going to try to stop that dog anyway he could.” Neighbors are up in arms about Charlie, who has been with Gard since he was five days old, however, state wildlife officials say Gard’s license and Charlie’s newly reinforced cage follow state regulations. Gard adds Charlie’s not dangerous. Do you agree with the concerned neighbors or Gard?

Catch your pets sneeze on tape

Vetstreet’s pet expert Dr. Nancy Kay says recording your pet’s symptoms will help your vet diagnose problems. “Unless an odd behavior or new symptom is occurring around the clock, the chances of its happening in your veterinarian’s office are slim to none.”  Here are symptoms you should definitely record:

• Reverse sneezing
• Collapsing (with or without complete loss of consciousness)
• Any abnormal movement
• “Odd” behaviors

Have you videotaped your pet for your vet?

By Brand New Images, Getty Images

Association’s Adopt A Cat Month. While it’s true that there are many dogs languishing in shelters and dogs in foster homes seeking forever homes, even more cats are desperate for a chance at life.

The overpopulation reality for cats is rampant – Steve offers several ideas to curb the problem here.

Steve Dale is a certified dog/cat behavior consultant and contributing editor USA WEEKEND. Read more about him here.

Courtesy of Warner Bros. Consumer Products

See Cesar Millan’s message about the National Family Pack Walk.

The National Family Pack Walk movement is meant to unite dog lovers and communities, in helping support rescue efforts for abandoned animals.

“It’s more than just walking a dog,” said Millan, in a release. “We need to be walking in one direction, toward a common outcome, helping one another. I want this to be a symbolic event for the community as a goal towards building healthy relationships with their dogs and each other.”

A series of regional walks organized by North Shore Animal Shelter League America, Sept 24-30, will culminate in the One Million Paw March on Sept. 29, in Washington, D.C. There, Millan will lead participants in a 1.5 mile walk around the National Mall. Pet lovers and owners alike can participate by registering a team of walkers or participate as individuals.

All of the proceeds from the event will go to the Cesar Millan Foundation’s efforts to help rescue, rehabilitate and re-home abused and abandoned dogs.

Enough is enough. I’m now suggesting consumers consider stop buying chicken jerky for dogs made in China.

Chicken jerky treats have reportedly sickened some dogs, some have even died. The complaints have simmered on an off for several years. And the problem seems to be on the rise. Since the start of the year, the Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine (FDA CVM) has received over 800 complaints about sickened pets, and deaths, according to Dan McChesney, director of the Office of Surveillance and Compliance.

While some complaints aren’t substantiated, he concedes the number of sickened pets might also be higher since not all pet owners may have

Photo: Rick Diamond, Getty Images

made the connection between their pet’s illness and the jerky treats. 

The point is that the treats are causing illness in some pets. The problem is that despite efforts to determine the explanation, so far, scientists simply have come up empty. The FDA CVM has even sent experts to China in an effort to uncover an explanation.

Duane Ekedahl, president of the Washington, D.C.-based Pet Food Institute, points out that the vast majority of dogs who chomp on jerky treats suffer no ill effects.

That was hardly the experience of Terry Safarenek of Brooklyn Heights, Ohio. She’s confident that Waggin’ Train Jerky Tenders caused the death of her best friend Sampson on Jan. 13. Nestle Purina PetCare and Waggin’ Train posted information about FDA CVM concerns on the Waggin’ Train website but have not recalled product. Safarenek is calling for a recall on her Change.org petition, which more than 63,000 people have signed.  

In February, I wrote about how U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown of Ohio tried to intercede. He was successful at garnering press attention to focus on the problem. Still, even under political pressure, the FDA CVM simply has been unable to pinpoint an absolute cause responsible for sickening pets. And without a specific scientific explanation, the agency isn’t legally able to recall a product, though it has posted warnings and offer answers to questions on its website.

Perhaps the best solution is the old supply-and-demand model. Perhaps, if demand dissipates, chicken jerky suppliers will be far more motivated to correct the problem. While I realize most pets suffer no ill effects from the treats, what if it’s your pet that gets sick?

Is buying chicken jerky really that important? Call it a boycott if you like, but I think it’s less risky to choose an alternative treat.

Want to know more?

• Terry Safarenek’s Change.org petition
• Waggin’ Train Jerky Tenders
• Sen. Sherrod Brown story
• FDA answers questions about chicken jerky treats from China

Steve Dale is a certified dog/cat behavior consultant and contributing editor USA WEEKEND. Read more about him here.

Microchipping pets saves lives. That’s the bottom line. I’ve been a microchip supporter for a very long time.

Need proof? HomeAgain Pet Recovery service recently recovered its 1 millionth pet — that’s not a typo.

Without a microchip, odds of pets being reunited with their families are meager. How can anyone refute microchipping or simply “not bother” when it’s so abundantly clear that microchipping saves lives? The hard truth is that without a chip many of those 1 million pets would have been euthanized.

Many dogs wear collars with ID information (which can fall off or be removed, unlike a microchip). Cats rarely wear collars (though I certainly endorse the idea).

One study from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) showed that, when acclimated, cats really don’t mind wearing a collar, despite what people may commonly believe.

Image courtesy of Steve Dale's Pet World/ Clip of 'Cat Microchipping'

When pets get lost (and according to statistics, one in three might get lost in a lifetime – so it happens frequently), cats are less likely to be recovered than dogs. The overwhelming majority of cats don’t have a microchip.

The reality is that even indoor cats do get out. Having a microchip shifts those odds dramatically, so at least the cat has a chance.

I’m proud to be a part of a loosely knit national campaign to microchip cats, which began several years back with the non-profit Winn Feline Foundation. Gradually, more and more cat owners are on board.

Few of us expect our pets to get lost. Read about one family reunited with their dog, and the value of microchipping.

You can see how easy the process is. This video show my cat Roxy microchipped by Dr. Sheldon Rubin.

Steve Dale is a certified dog/cat behavior consultant and contributing editor USA WEEKEND. Steve’s a syndicated newspaper columnist and radio host, and his latest e-books are Good Dog! and Good Cat! Read more about him here.

The bad news: Pet owners again must navigate recalls of pet food. The good news: This recall – though widespread – is greatly limited to brands produced in one facility. Though some consumers are frightened, this is not a repeat of the 2007 mass recall on deadly pet foods.

 During the 2007 recall, pets were sickened and some died (to this day, no one knows how many). In this recall, no pets have been reported ill but 16 people in nine states and one Canadian province are verified to have contracted salmonella poisoning, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

An outbreak of human illness

The CDC is taking the human illnesses seriously, having labeled them an outbreak and even issuing an online alert.

It took just over a month for CDC officials, working in tandem with others in public health, to link the illness to salmonella by using DNA fingerprints, and then salmonella to the pet foods.

CDC scientists suggest that for every confirmed case reported to the agency, at least 16 are not reported. “This only could be the tip of the iceberg,” says veterinary epidemiologist Casey Barton Behravesh, leader of the CDC outbreak response team.

8 brands in the recall

It seems clear this outbreak is limited to one Diamond Pet Food Plant in Gaston, S.C., where many brands are manufactured. In addition to Diamond, brands affected are Wellness, Chicken Soup for the Dog Lover’s Soul, Solid Gold, CANIDAE, Natural Balance, Apex Pet Foods and Kirkland (the Costco brand).

Photo by Katye Martens, USA TODAY

The problem, says Dan McChesney, director of the Office of Surveillance and Compliance at the Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine, is that “the product, dry food in particular, is so susceptible to bacteria because of the high protein level and because it’s treated with flavoring.” This is like putting a condiment on a burger, but in manufacturing that flavoring is often where contamination occurs. There are 2,500 types of salmonella, and the one identified in this outbreak, Salmonella Infantis, is very uncommon.

The big food recall in 2007 was very different, says Duane Ekedahl, president of the Washington D.C.-based Pet Food Institute. “Horribly, pets were dying, and it proved to be as a result of criminal adulteration.” Melamine and cyanuric acid were added to the affected pet food products in China to mask protein. The combination of melamine and cyanuric acid sickened countless pets and killed others. 

How to protect yourself

Pet food can cause salmonella transmission when people touch tainted kibble and then fail to wash their hands. “Hand washing is the most important thing you can do to protect yourself and your family,” Barton Behravesh says. Pet owners should also wash hands after scooping the litter box or picking up after the dog in the yard.

Though unlikely, a dog can transmit salmonella by offering a big wet dog kiss following a meal of tainted food. Similarly, salmonella can potentially spread to people who pet a cat who has groomed himself after eating contaminated food.

How to learn about recalls

Please consult reputable Internet sites to learn about recalls.

• FDA’s pet recall list. Unfortunately, even the FDA doesn’t always include all brands on its site and may not be perfectly up to date.
• In this instance, Diamond Pet Foods offers information. Sadly, you can’t depend on manufacturers or stores to post information.
• Dog Food Advisor. This is a good site that tracks dog foods recalled.

And I attempt to keep up on pet food recalls my blog, www.chicagonow.com/stevedale.

A non-salmonella recall of cat food

Making matters more still more disconcerting for consumers, Nestle Purina PetCare announced a voluntary recall on May 11 of one specific lot of Purina Veterinary Diet, OM (Overweight Management) canned cat food, available through veterinarians in the U.S. and Canada. 

This precautionary measure was being taken in response to one consumer complaint received by FDA.  Analytical testing of the product sample by FDA indicated a low level of thiamine (vitamin B1).  Purina has received no other complaints of thiamine-related or any other health issues related to this product. Cats fed this affected lot exclusively for several weeks may be at risk for developing a thiamine deficiency. The Purina recall of the overweight diet for cats in unrelated to the various recalls at the Diamond plant prompted by salmonella concerns.

Steve Dale is a certified dog/cat behavior consultant and contributing editor USA WEEKEND. Steve’s a syndicated newspaper columnist and radio host, and his latest e-books are Good Dog! and Good Cat! Read more about him here.

Jim Sak is a Vietnam veteran, a retired Chicago cop of 32 years and, maybe most heroic of all, a guy willing to move from his beloved Chicago to small-town Aurelia, Iowa, solely to help out his ailing 87-year-old mother-in-law.

And Jim understands health problems: Back in 2008 he suffered a severe stroke. Like an increasing number of stroke victims and people with physical challenges, he has a service dog to help him out. His friendly, well-trained dog is named Snickers.

Snickers assists Jim in balancing himself and, if he falls, Snickers helps Jim get to his feet. Snickers resembles a pit bull (no one knows for sure what Snickers’ lineage is). As it happens, Aurelia, Iowa, has a pit bull ban.

Immediately after Jim and his wife, Peggy, moved to Aurelia last November, the official welcome wagon from the city was a request that the dog high-tail it out of town.

“We had no idea about a breed ban when we moved here,” says Peggy. “Besides, Jim would never have considered giving up his best friend.”

The non-profit Animal Farm Foundation, which advocates for pit bull-type dogs, interceded. Animal Farm pointed out that part pit bull or not, it doesn’t matter. The federal government’s Americans with Disabilities Act is very clear that breed (or mix of breeds) isn’t a factor for working dogs providing assistance to people.

Regardless, city officials exiled Snickers from town for two weeks, until the case went to court. That’s when the story began to receive national attention.

Jim and Peggy were touched by responses from people they didn’t personally know; some drove in from all over the Midwest to express support at the December hearing. The result of that hearing: U.S. District Court Judge Mark W. Bennett granted the motion for preliminary injunction for Snickers to be returned immediately to Jim. The judge’s comments were unambiguous in support of any breed or mix, including pit bull-type dogs, working as service dogs.

The town’s officials aren’t letting the matter go. Technically, the hearing was only preliminary, so the city has the right to go back to court. And it now is exercising that right.

           Attorney Sharon Malheiro of the DavisBrown Law Firm of Des Moines is representing Jim and Peggy pro bono. “It was my hope  –  based on the federal law, for starters, but also on judge Bennett’s ruling –  that whatever else needed to be resolved could be done out of court. We’re honestly not sure what’s at issue.”

Peggy says, “Jim can barely stand that, yet again, they want to take his dog away. Snickers gives Jim a feeling of independence, but the relationship is so much more. Here’s this tough ex-cop – and I am here to tell you Jim is tough – this dog makes Jimmy happy in way I can’t even explain. This dog is Jim’s heart. Snickers is like an anti-depressant drug.”

At this moment Jim cannot speak for himself; he’s hospitalized in Sioux City after undergoing several rounds of chemotherapy for tonsil cancer.

Peggy, clearly holding back tears adds, “I don’t know what the town’s issue is. We’ve put up fencing and have done whatever’s been asked.”

She wonders: Does the city really believe its ordinance supersedes federal law? Or perhaps, this is a negotiating ploy so the town doesn’t have to pay for expenses Jim and Peggy have asked for.  Jim’s prognosis is good, but Peggy also wonders if the town wants to be in a position to ban Snickers should Jim not recover.

Of course, it’s hard to say when the city will not say – officials refuse to comment.

When the city took away Snickers for two weeks (before the December hearing) Jim told me, “When I came back from Vietnam in ’68, they called me names and jeered at me. I feel like it’s happening all over again. What did I do? What did Snickers do to do deserve this? I want my friend back. I’ve never felt so lost.”

Steve Dale is a certified dog/cat behavior consultant and contributing editor USA WEEKEND. Steve’s a syndicated newspaper columnist and radio host, and his latest e-books are Good Dog! and Good Cat! Read more about him here.

Now, we’ve created another gallery for your photos of all of the pets in your life. We want to see your pets spring into the warm weather. Does your dog, cat or lizard like to sun themselves? Upload photos of your pets as they enjoy spring and your pet could be our next pet of the week!

Meet our Pet of the week!

User RobertFitzpatric uploaded this photo.

Photo from USA WEEKEND user jagr1850.

Photo from USA WEEKEND user jessicaorlando.

Winner # 3 User kdiers sent in this photo of their well-traveled dog. “My mom and dad took me to Florence, Italy for a romantic weekend away,” user kdiers says. “Is the skyline of the city bellisima?”

Photo from USA WEEKEND user kdiers.

Winner # 4 Who says turtles are slow? User SMaria7 lets her snapping turtle Sam out of his aquarium for some free time. Here, Sam’s enjoying the challenge of climbing up a pillow.

Photo from USA WEEKEND user SMaria7.

Photo from USA WEEKEND user JKS2009.

Thank you to everyone for participating.

Check out all of the amazing photos of Pets on the Go in our photo gallery.

He says that while Diane Keaton, Kevin Kline, Dianne Weist and Sam Shepherd appear in Darling Companion, the lastest movie by Lawrence (The Big Chill, The Bodyguard) Kasdan, the real star is a mutt.

Photo By Robert Hanashiro, USA TODAY

The story begins when a woman (played by Keaton) rescues a dog by the side of a Colorado road.  About a year later, that same dog is lost by her husband (Kline) while he’s hiking.

The entire family mobilizes to find the dog, Freeway – named for a dog Kasdan’s real-life sister-in-law found on the side of the road in Detroit.

Perhaps real-life wrote more of the screenplay than Kasdan and his wife, Meg. He and Meg  know a little too much about what it’s like to lose a dog. Their own dog, Mac, was spooked by a mountain biker in Colorado about five years ago and off he went. “I knew I loved Mac, but I wasn’t prepared for how devastated I was,” Kasdan says.

“We were worried something could happen to him in the mountains, but also it’s that bond, that relationship you develop – you don’t know how much it means until it’s gone,” adds Kasdan. “After about 10 days, we were getting very discouraged when we were given renewed hope by a friend of Meg’s who said, ‘Mac’s all right; you’re going to find him.’ ”

Meg asked, “How do you know?”

The friend replied, “I know things.”

It turned out the friend was right. Three weeks later, Mac was discovered.

Might that have happened anyway? Or was it that the friend (either clairvoyant or crazy) motivated the family to keep on searching.

In the movie, guess what – the same thing happens. The housekeeper (played by Israeli actress Ayelet Zurer) says she “knows things.”

Spoiler alert: Freeway is found in the movie, just as Mac was in real life. “We didn’t dare consider any other ending,” Kasdan says. While in real life Mac was microchipped, so was the dog in the film; Kasdan is a huge fan of microchipping for ID and recovery of pets.

Steve Dale is a certified dog/cat behavior consultant and contributing editor USA WEEKEND. Steve’s a syndicated newspaper columnist and radio host, and his latest e-books are Good Dog! and Good Cat! Read more about him here.

Photo: Gannett / courtesy of Nicole Andree

Prada was taken from owner Nicole Andree and brought to Nashville’s Metro Animal Control for repeatedly fighting with neighborhood dogs.  Since then, three different courts in Nashville have all declared that Prada is “vicious” and must be “euthanized.”

These rulings did not deter Andree, who spent thousands in legal fees and started a social media campaign called Save Prada. Andree’s efforts to save her dog finally paid off last week when a judge signed an order to relocate Prada to Villalobos Rescue Center. The rescue center is in Animal Planet’s reality TV show Pit Bulls and Parolees. Villalobos was built by Tia Torres and is the largest pit bull rescue facility in the U.S.

Andree, who rescued Prada when she was four-weeks-old, said she was “relieved” that her dog had been saved. Prada is not allowed to be adopted and must stay at Villalobos for the rest of her life.

Photo by John Moore / Getty Images

Things are getting heated in Columbus, Ohio, where the Senate has passed Senate Bill 310, the exotic animal legislation. The exotic animal bill prohibits new ownership, but allows current owners to keep their exotic animals – with limitations.

“Please understand the best thing we can do is pass some form of law, we need to keep it out of private people’s homes,” said one legislator last week at the hearing. ”We don’t need any more cougars, we don’t need any more tigers in the state of Ohio. … What’s the best thing to do for these people … and what’s the best for the animals?”

This legislation comes after the Zanesville animal massacre, when 56 exotic animals escaped this past October. In all, 49 of the escapees, including tigers, lions and bears, were slaughtered. Even though schools closed, the town of Zanesville was in danger and animal lives were lost, many in Ohio oppose the bill.

The Senate passed the bill on a 30-1 vote and it will now be taken to the House.

Puppy delays flights in NYC

Byrdie, a 30-pound Rhodesian ridgeback puppy, escaped from her crate and decided to go for a run on New York’s LaGuardia Airport runway yesterday. Authorities attempted to capture Byrdie, but eventually had to get her owner off of an airplane to help.

Reader submitted photo

TV for your pooch

Can’t afford doggy daycare, but you don’t want your dog left alone and bored all day while you work? DogTV may be available nationally in the next month for your dog’s viewing pleasure. It’s eight hours of commercial-free TV that is “designed to keep your dog relaxed, stimulated and entertained.” DogTV alters sounds and colors to give dogs sounds they can recognize in colors they can see.

Tiny rescue made by singer Jewel

Mentor on TV’s The Voice and Grammy Award winner Jewel added animal rescue to her plate last week. “Look what I found. Poor thing must have hit my window and is stunned,” the singer tweeted last Sunday, along with a photo of the hummingbird. “Hope he’s not hurt 2 bad.” She found the humming bird on her ranch in Texas.

The yellow Labrador retriever was struck and killed by a car and the black Labrador, later identified as Maggie, refused to leave her. She circled around the yellow Lab’s body in distress until a passerby stopped his vehicle and sprang into action, calling animal control.

The man then recorded the video that quickly went viral (see below). Maggie, who was nicknamed Grace for Amazing Grace was taken to a shelter in Baldwin Park, Calif.  With no ID tag, license or microchip, the shelter was unable to identify Maggie until hours later when her owners came in with paperwork.

Here’s Maggie as she braves traffic to stand by her friend.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10PNTNt2hpQ&version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0]

In many states owners are required by law to register their dogs. Had either dog been licensed, their owners could have been found and notified earlier. No one has claimed the yellow Labrador, who also had no ID tag, microchip or license.

For more information about registering your dog contact your local city hall.

Photo By Dan MacMedan, USAT

Spring is finally here and that means your pup is going to want to spend more time outside.

These tips from USA WEEKEND will help you turn walking your dog into a workout.

Not a dog owner? Don’t worry — there are indoor exercises you can do while playing with your cat.

Pet safety in the spring

When you’re outside enjoying the sunshine, remember that your pet needs to be prepared for the warmer weather. The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) has issued its Spring Parasite Forecast and it looks grim.

Did you know there’s an increased risk this spring for heartworms and ticks? Roughly half of the dogs and cats go unprotected from heartworms. Find out how you can prevent your pet from getting any parasites.

(Photo by China Photos/Getty Images)

People across America are dyeing their pets’ fur.

These extreme pet owners use anything from food dye to vegan dyes to the fairly new pet dyes to transform their pets into zebras, panda bears or just turn them into brightly colored pets.

Dr. Marty Becker told Anderson Cooper that if pet dyeing is done safely, it’s fine. However, it is illegal in many states.

Petside.com said that your pet may be “physically harmed from exposure to pet dyes, and the dyeing process can be stressful for your pet.”

If you’re dyeing your pet, keep this in mind:

• Never use human dyes. They can be very harmful to your pet.
• Never dye a cat because many products are “more toxic” to them than dogs.
• If you choose to dye your pooch, try to use food coloring; it’s been approved by the ASPCA.

Before you decide to dye, remember pet dyes haven’t been around long enough to determine their safety, according to Petside.com.

Here’s Anderson Cooper talking about the dyeing your pet.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LfNkGvcVTX4?rel=0]

What do you think of this pet trend? Is it unsafe and unnecessary? Or will we be seeing more colorful pooches on leashes this spring?

“Heidi takes on everything, including sticks, with a zest for life,” says her owner and USA WEEKEND reader, Pocahauntis.

Check out the rest of our reader-submitted photos in our pet photo gallery. Submit your pet’s photo and he or she might be our next pet of the week!

 Here are a few more pet photos sent in by our readers this week.

*Please note that you must be registered on usaweekend.com and logged in to post a photo.

Photo By David McNew, Getty Images

More than 150 dolphins have shown up dead or very ill on the coast of Louisiana. Why? Federal regulators from the Bureeau of Ocean Energy Management believe that it may be due to natural gas exploration.  “Imagine dynamite going off in your neighborhood for days, months on end,” Michael Jasny, a senior policy analyst at the NRDC, told the Associated Press. ”That’s the situation these animals are facing.” Global Geophysical Services Inc., uses air-guns to conduct the seismic surveys, which “disrupts the dolphin’s navigation.” The company was ordered to stop testing until May, when the dolphins’ birthing season ends.

What happens to endangered animals kept as pets?

Rescue centers are popping in the Middle East for endangered animals. The Ras Al Khaimah Wildlife Park in the United Arab Emirates is home to many big cats that were once abused, as well as baboons, crocodiles, hyenas, eagles and even a black panther. Owning endangered animals in the U.A.E. is illegal; however, many are bought and traded in the black market. Owning an exotic, endangered animal such as Teymour, a fully grown African lion, gives the owners the right to “boast” about how wealthy they are. When these animals, who’ve been neglected and underfed, are rescued they are brought to rescue centers. Wildlife Park Manager Jasmin Ali befriends big cats like Teymour and treats them with “caution and respect.” Ali said of his relationship with Teymour, “a love story began between us. He would not eat until he saw me.”

Tiniest Antelope born

Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo welcomed a baby Royal Antelope on February 23. A full grown Royal Antelope stands at 10 – 12 inches, making it the world’s smallest species of antelope. Both baby and mom are doing fine!

 Dogs in control

A new study found that humans aren’t the only ones who make poor choices when mentally drained. When dogs are forced to exert self control, i.e. being told to sit or stay, they are more likely to “behave rashly and impulsively.” The study linked its findings to the fact that dogs who resist biting may “eventually reach a willpower limit and bite.”

We love to shop!

Before you upload, make sure that you’re logged in to usaweekend.com. 

Once you are logged in, you will be able to submit your pets photo here. When you share your photo, you’ll be in the running for one of five $100 gift certificates to PetCo. Deadline for entries is Thursday, April 29.

Please note, uploading the photo is your entry. Once you have registered and logged in to usaweekend.com, we will have your contact information.

Don’t forget to read the complete rules before you enter.

Only photos uploaded in the correct photo gallery at the link above are eligible.

Photo: Andy Buchanan/AFP/Getty Images

Do you love Penguins?

If so, you’re in for a treat! From March to April only, you’ll be able to watch San Diego Zoo’s penguin cam, 24 hours a day. The video stream is being run to celebrate “Frozen Planet,” a series co-produced by the Discovery Channel. Live stream the penguin cam to see nearly 300 penguins sleep, eat and play all day — and night–  long.

iPad apps for cats

Looking for something fun for your cat to do? Let you cat test out these apps. Games for Cats has three games that let you cat to chase a butterfly, laster or – a favorite among felines – a mouse. Cats can also paw for fish or squish bugs with two apps from Friskies. Maybe your cat is less athletic and more artistic. There are apps for that, too. Kittys can get creative on canvas with a paint app or they can move their paws across a keyboard and jam out to the music.

Here’s Iggy testing out some fun cat apps.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tDsHcGzItg&version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0]

And in other app news for animals, did you hear about the PetWatch app? This free app allows users to add exotic animals in their photos. The app is designed to educate families about exotic pets and it’s not always safe for the animal or you to own them.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJkZXh9v_i4&version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0]

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JuVHCJVYf4&version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0]

Well, prepare yourself: the Meow Mix Jingle is back! The jingle has returned to television for the launch of Meow Mix Tender Centers, a new brand of kitty kibble.

Here’s the updated classic that you won’t be able to get out of your head.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00M7CojclWM&version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0]

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNLC0b481JM&version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0]

Did we find a video treat for you, or what?

The possibilities are endless: Kitty could be on vacation with you, or Fido could be in a frenzy chasing his tail in your backyard. Check out the photo gallery and upload your pet photo for a chance to win. Deadline for entries is Thursday, April 29. Click here for complete rules.

*Please note that you must be registered on usaweekend.com and logged in to post a photo. Only photos uploaded in the correct photo gallery at the link above are eligible.

USA WEEKEND reader Myra Markley says Sandi was trained to turn the lights on and off to help her when "my arms just don't work well."

Our cover story from two weeks ago on the amazing abilities of service dogs generated some great feedback.

"Austin is a diabetic alert dog. He alerts Genavie when her sugars are high and low," says one reader.

We invited readers to share photos in our photo gallery of their service dogs, therapy dogs and your everyday helpful dogs.

We received 145 photos of your helpful pets.

You guys sent in great photos of dogs that help you manage your PTSD, therapy dogs that visit the elderly or the sick, diabetic-alert dogs and seizure alert dogs.

Service dogs such as Sandi, (right) are trained to help their owners overcome physical disabilities. “Sandi goes everywhere with me,” says her owner, Myra Markley.

She was trained to turn lights on and off, as well as “open and shut doors with or without tug ropes,” Marley says. “I trained her for both options because not all doors have tugs.”

“She’s my best friend and makes me much more independent,” she added.

Do you have a service or therapy dog? It’s not too late to add your helpful dogs photo to our photo gallery.

We  invite you to join us here at Petphoria!, where we’ll continue to  inform and entertain pet lovers around the world.  

This reader submitted photo comes from user tckimmi who says "Bear loves to go camping with our family!"

For those who enjoyed the Paw Print Post on USA Today, Petphoria! is a place where we’ll talk about the furry, the  fuzzy, the feathered and finned. We’ll share news of heroic cases, heart breakers and the occasional viral video. You can learn about the latest trends  in the animal world and enjoy updates on the latest pet news.

Make sure to check out our reader’s photos of their four-legged friends and be sure to add your pets photo to the gallery.

We look forward to getting to know you and your pets.

In Xenia, Ohio sits 4 Paws for Ability, a service dog training facility founded by Karen Shirk in 1998. Shirk started the non-profit after personally struggling for several years with many different organizations that refused to place a dog with Shirk.

Eventually, Shirk bought a puppy and trained him herself. Ben became her service dog and he saved her life, she said.

It was around that time when Shirk realized that others may be faced with a similar challenge.

Coda barks to alert for help during practice with trainer Jessa Brown. Photo by Karen Shirk.

4 Paws has no waiting list and turns no one away.  They train and place dogs with children – regardless of the disability. In fact, it was one of the first organizations to train dogs for children with Autism.

The trainers at 4 Paws identify the dogs’ individual talents during basic training. Then, training gets personalized based on the dog’s strengths and talents so that they can specialize as hearing ear dogs, autism assistants, mobility assistants or seizure assistants.

Karen Shirk shared photos in this photo gallery of Coda, a service dog in action with 4 Paws trainer Jessa Brown as they work on different skills.

Do you have a helpful dog?

You can also post photos of your service dogs therapy dogs or any dog that helps you to the gallery.

Bo Obama is back in the spotlight

The online lottery has come and gone for the 2012 White House Easter Egg Roll. More than 35,000 will be selected to join the Obama family on the South Lawn on April 9, for the event. And, guess who made the announcement? Bo, the first dog, donned bunny ears to invite everyone to enter the lottery. 

Here’s Bo’s special Easter announcement.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wn_DS2UjoXg&version=3&hl=en_US]

More people going to court for pet

A 2006 survey of matrimonial lawyers showed a surprising trend: Pet custody cases are on the rise. While pets have always been considered as property in the courts in the past. Now, “Judges are viewing them more akin to children … They are recognizing that people have an emotional attachment to their animals,” said Ken Altshuler of Portland, Maine, a divorce attorney and American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers president.

PETA defends euthanasia practices

PETA is in the hot seat, again. This time, the group Center for Consumer Freedom has created Petakillsanimals.com, where it claims that PETA has euthanized 1,965 of 2,050 animals – in 2011 alone. Earlier this week, PETA responded and admitted that 95% of the animals at the headquarters shelter in Norfolk, Va., were euthanized last year. PETA spokeswoman Jane Dollinger explained in an email with USA TODAY that “most of the animals we take in are society’s rejects – aggressive, on death’s door, or somehow unadoptable.” Learn more about PETA’s euthanasia policies.

New species of bat discovered

A new species of bat was discovered in Vietnam, according to National Geographic. The bat, whose nose is shaped like a leaf, was at first confused for the great leaf-nosed bat. However, “genetic tests confirmed the species – named Hipposideros griffin – is genetically distinct.”

Baby the French bulldog thinks she’s a mama – to six abandoned wild boar piglets. The curious event happened last week at the Lehnitz animal sanctuary, outside Berlin. Baby, 8, decided that the six piglets, found in the wild, would become her babies. Baby’s a nurturer, says Norbert Damm, a sanctuary worker. She’s mothered several other orphaned animals, including raccoons and cats.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XN1xUo1Nxoc&version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0]

‘Meet Your Match’ program to find pets

Finding the perfect pet for you, is as simple as following Meet Your Match, a color-coded program, available at animal shelters across the country. It was designed and created by Emily Weiss, vice president of shelter research and development for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. By using Meet Your Match, shelters have increased adoptions by 20 percent. Learn about how you too can find a pet you’ll fall in love with through Meet Your Match.

Healthier products for your pets

It may cost more, but high-quality, environmentally friendly, organic pet products are the latest trend among pet owners. Why will they spend a little extra on their pets? Well, Leslie May from Pawsible Marketing, believes that the pet food recalls from 2007, which led to hundreds of dead pets scared many owners. Plus, pets are not just animals – they’re four-legged family members to many owners.

Stem cell injection used for dog with arthritis

Jake, a 12-year-old yellow Labrador retriever, received a stem cell injection to treat his arthritis. The procedure, in which they remove fat from his body and inject it into his joints, is highly controversial. Critics say that it hasn’t been around long enough. Without knowing the long-term effects on the animals, it’s too risky. However, supporters like Jake’s owner Elizabeth LeBlanc, are grateful for more time.

Moving in together? Take time combining pets

Moving in with someone? Make sure to consider your pets. “Merging pets when moving in together usually has a happy ending, but it can take time, patience, medication (for the pet), or help of an animal trainer or behaviorist,” said Dr. Chessie Green. Read the full story for tips on make the move easier on your pets.

More use pet oxygen masks, saving lives

Pet oxygen masks are not new– they’ve been around for decades, primarily used by veterinarians. That’s quickly changing — these cone-shaped masks are now being carried by many first responders, according to experts. “Immediate oxygen therapy can make the difference between life and death in severely affected pets,” said Elke Rudloff, an emergency and critical care veterinarian.

With the Academy Awards coming up, a USA TODAY reporter looked at the animal actors in Hollywood. “Animals add such character to a movie, and people just automatically relate to them,” says Mathilde de Cagny, the lead animal trainer for Hugo and Beginners.

These animals’ acting abilities are worthy of nominations:

Uggie from the film 'The Artist.' Photo by Craig Barritt/Getty Images for TWC.

‘The Dog’ in The Artist: Uggie is a big-time star, with – get this – a Twitter account. The 10-year-old Jack Russell terrier was a pro acting alongside Jean Dujardin, who was a “great dog handler,” according to Uggie’s owner and trainer Omar Von Muller.

Joey in War Horse: It took 10 horses — from foal to adult — to play Joey in this Spielberg film. “They were all heroes,” said trainer Bobby Lovgren.

Arthur in Beginners: Cosmo is the real name of the soulful little terrier whose thoughts are subtitled in the movie. He did so well in that film because of the “natural connection” he had with his co-star, Ewan McGregor, says trainer de Cagny.

Buster in We Bought a Zoo: Weighing in at 1200 pounds, this grizzly named Bart did a phenomenal job. Trainer Doug Seus said Bart’s acting inspiration comes from his rewards: “meat, apples, a hug and a ‘Good boy.’”

Maximilian in Hugo: It took three identical dogs to play this fierce guard dog, because Doberman pinschers “are not the bravest of dogs,” said trainer de Cagny.

Take a look at these animals on the big screen.

Pets dress up as Grammy nominees

Speaking of award shows, millions tuned in to watch the Grammys on Feb. 12, but did you know that on Feb., 4, pets got glammed up for the ‘Grammy Nominee Pet Look-Alike’ contest. The contest, sponsored by Banfield Pet Hospital and PetSmart, was hosted and judged by Drew Lachey, the former boy-bander from 98 Degrees and winner of Dancing with the Stars.”

As the judge of the contest here at Banfield, we’re celebrating both the pets, and the music greats,” said Lachey. “I’m excited to be the first to introduce these pets and the surrounding community to a new place to visit so they can continue to stay happy and healthy.”

23 dogs walked the red carpet and the three winners selected each won the prize of free veterinary care for a year. The winning pets dressed as the following nominees: Bruno Mars (Mason, the Pomeranian), Rihanna (Coco, a Great Dane / pit bull) and Katy Perry (Dolce, a Maltese).

“People are realizing we need to do things to reduce stress in the workplace,” says Rebecca Johnson, director of the Research Center for Human-Animal Interaction at the University of Missouri’s College of Veterinary Medicine. With rules, pets in the office help make people in the office, friendlier, healthier and more relaxed.

Pregnant? Better prepare your pet

Experts say when you’re expecting, you should also plan to prepare your pet. “A baby changes everything for a pet — from how its home looks, smells and sounds to what the rules are.

” While low-energy dogs tend to be the most adaptable, independent or excitable dogs are more “high maintenance” and usually the least adaptable, says San Francisco veterinarian Sophia Yin.

Some changes to make before the baby arrives:

• Introduce your pet to baby noises (CDs full of baby cries, noises and toys can be purchased).
• Introduce your pet to the baby smells before the baby comes home from the hospital.
• Make sure your pet’s healthy. Get more tips — including cat- and dog-specific ideas — about what to do to prepare your pet.

Pet elk not allowed back home

It’s sad news for owners George and Sharon Richter when it comes to their pet elk. The runaway three-year-old elk is not allowed to return home to Pennsylvania, because officials are worried about the possible spread of chronic wasting disease. The elk escaped the Richters’ farm more than a year ago when a gate was accidentally left open. He’s now being fed by the local residents of Pleasant Valley, W.Va.

Cancer-stricken woman wins fight to keep her dog

Pat Picavet not only has to fight Stage 4 breast cancer, but she also had to go to bat to keep her dog at her condo in Florida. Picavet purchased the condo along with her husband for a retreat while she battles cancer. Marley, their black Labrador retriever who weighs 60 pounds over the homeowner association’s limit, brings the family as much peace as their “relaxing waterside retreat.”

Cat gets first knee joint operation

Cyrano, referred to as a “tubby tabby,” couldn’t have his leg amputated, after it was weakened by cancer. So, his owner brought him to North Carolina State University, where doctors helped him receive the first feline total knee replacement in the country. While knee implants have become common among dogs, “a cat’s smaller anatomy has proved more difficult to work with,” says Dr. Denis Marcellin –Little.

Dog spinal-cord experimental tests may help humans

Small dogs with spinal-cord injuries can now undergo experimental treatment through a three-year-long study. Unfortunately, many of these long-backed, short-legged little breeds become paralyzed by spontaneous disc ruptures that bruise or tear their spinal cords. This treatment, if effective, will cure these dogs and make may one day be used on people. Learn more about what the experimental treatment entails and what pets are eligible.

Rats can make great family pets

Rat owners say their pets are playful, affectionate and intelligent. One such owner, Robin Rushlau, describes rats as smaller versions of dogs. They’re social animals, cleaner than guinea pigs and are simple to maintain. Erin Stromberg, a keeper at Think Tank, an exhibit at the National Zoo, says that many don’t like rats because of their intelligence. “They’re flexible and adaptable enough to learn to avoid new dangers,” she says.

Benson's owned by Dr. Gerald and Gloria Blatt.

How will you celebrate?

It’s not too late to submit your pet’s photo.

Send your photo to kcoughlin@usatoday.com with your pet’s name, your name and a brief description, and you too may be featured in our ‘I love my pet’ photo gallery.

Photo by BananaStock, BananaStock RF.

Heart-shaped boxes filled with chocolates signal it’s that time of year: Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching. As you plan how to spend this day, we want to know how you’ll spread the love to your pets.

Will your cat or dog get a special treat, new sweater or unique keepsake this Valentine’s Day?

However you plan to celebrate and show your pets how much you love them, make sure to take a picture for our ‘I love my pet’ photo gallery.

Mr. Quiggly -- racing in his Skechers against a pack of greyhounds. Photo by SKECHERS USA.

This Sunday many will tune in, not only to watch the Giants play the Patriots, but to see what the 2012 Super Bowl ads are. Unsurprisingly, this year animals dominate the ads. We’ve already mentioned a few of the ads: Here are previous posts of a sneak peek of the VW ad and the controversial Skechers’ ad. But, why dogs and not cats? Cultural anthropologist Robbie Blinkoff says, “You can’t go wrong with a dog. The dogs are idealized versions of ourselves.” USA TODAY compiled memorable Super Bowl ads featuring pets for you to take a look at.

Below are the Skechers ad and the new VW ad:

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-9EYFJ4Clo&version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0]

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j87Y-NS7Evk&version=3&hl=en_US&rel=0]

Camel predicts Giants to win Super Bowl

Popcorn Park Zoo in New Jersey has an especially talented camel, named Princess. She has a knack for predicting the winner of NFL games. In fact, Princess has picked the winner of five of the last six Super Bowls. Her pick for this year’s Super Bowl? The Giants.

Dogs spread happiness

When you pet a dog your “cuddle hormone” a.k.a. a hormone called oxytocin “kicks into high gear,” according to many studies. Oxytocin actually calms you down — it reduces blood pressure and decreases your levels of stress and anxiety. Some doctors say that dogs can sometimes be better than Prozac. Read more about how dogs make us happy here.

Katherine Heigl — ‘the Mad Dog Lady’

Katherine Heigl, 33, calls her dogs — all seven of them — “a blessing.” In addition to her successful film career, Heigl’s also part of a campaign called “I Hate Balls” — which promotes spaying and neutering pets. She also founded the Jason Debus Heigl Foundation (named after her late brother). “The motto for our foundation is that we want to help and protect the voiceless and the innocent — that was my brother’s bent. He had an unusually grand sense of compassion,” Heigl said. “My brother was absolutely an animal advocate.” Read more about Katherine Heigl and her pups in this USA WEEKEND article.

CJ, a Newfoundland, in the backstage area during the 136th Westminster Kennel Club Annual Dog Show. Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP/Getty Images

This year there will be 185 breeds competing at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show on Feb. 13-14 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. That’s six more breeds than last year. This is no small feat, as there are “strict criteria” to being admitted, said David Frei, the club’s director of communications and the USA Network show host.

Consider pet-proofing your home

A resident in New Castle, Pa., reported a smoking outlet last week. The fire department responded and discovered that the resident’s cat had urinated in the electrical outlet. A fire was avoided and no one was harmed.

Here are some safety tips and helpful hints when trying to pet-proof your home:

• From SafeElectricity.org: “Coat the [electrical] cords with bitter-tasting pet deterrent available at your local pet store,” if your pet’s displayed an interest in electrical cords.
• From Bissell.com: “Tuck away electrical wires and cords from lamps, DVD players, televisions, stereos and telephones so they’re out of the reach of chewers. Consider installing electric cord shorteners, outlet covers and window cord safety locks.”
• From American Humane Association: “Make sure all heating/air vents have covers.”

Some of these celebs go beyond loving their pets to making animals a priority. Here are some who are actively involved in animal charities.

Glenn Close

She played 101 Dalmatians’ Cruella De Vil with convincing dog-hatred, but Glenn Close couldn’t be more different from her villain counterpart. She cherishes the dogs in her life and believes that all dogs are an integral part of our world. “I believe that dogs teach us kindness, loyalty, responsibility and unconditional love,” Close said on ‘Lively Licks,’ a blog she created. ‘Lively Licks’ gives Close the opportunity to interview celebs who treasure their pets. Close also has worked with and supported many animal-related charities, including Puppies Behind Bars which provides inmates the opportunity to train and raise puppies to become service dogs, guide dogs and law enforcement dogs.

Kevin Bacon

Much more than a handsome face, Kevin Bacon’s a dog owner and self proclaimed (in jest) do-gooder. As the creator of SixDegrees.org — movement that uses the concept that everyone is connected through six people to better the world — Bacon has helped unite more than 1.2 million U.S. based charities, including many that help animals. “Animals are very, very important to people because you care about them,” Bacon said in a conference when Six Degrees started. Bacon has also volunteered with Animal Rescue New Orleans, a non-profit that was hit when Hurricane Katrina struck. Bacon and wife Kyra Sedgwick volunteered there and Bacon was so moved by the organizations volunteers and animal residents that he went on to narrate the film New Orleans Animal Rescue — which tells the story of the animals from Hurricane Katrina.

Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen DeGeneres knows how to give back — and not just to human-related causes. DeGeneres has continually proven to be a voice for animals on her self-titled daytime television show, through her charity work and with the partnerships which she has formed and aligned herself. DeGeneres draws attention through posts on her website to several worthy animal-related charities and organizations. She has supported, donated, visited and/or volunteered with many of the organizations she mentions, including: Animal Tracks, Inc., The Gentle Barn, Halo (an organization she co-owns), and Farm Sanctuary.

More info about some of these charities:

The Gentle Barn “We provide a place for people and animals to be reminded that they matter,” said founder Ellie Laks. Roughly 120 animals live at the Gentle Barn and once they’ve been rehabilitated, they are able to help children who’ve also suffered from abuse, who have special-needs or those on probation or in foster care.

Farm Sanctuary’s mission is rescue, education and advocacy when it comes to farm animals which are treated according to its website as “unfeeling commodities” with “their basic needs completely ignored.”

Halo Pet Foundation focuses on encouraging and promoting the relationship between pets and owners. Co-owned by Ellen herself, the foundation provides pet advice, recipes for dog food and animal adoption events.

Rachael Ray 

Rachael Ray’s love and appreciation for animals can be seen in every aspect of her life. Viewers of her daytime talk show have met and heard plenty about Isaboo — the dog Ray calls her baby. And she’s created Nutrish, a line of healthy pet food, made from natural ingredients. It’s not only healthy for your pet; it also helps others, as a portion of the proceeds go to organizations that her group Rachael’s Rescue supports. Rachael’s Rescue identifies integral organizations that help at-risk animals, including the ASPCA, America’s Vetdogs and the North Shore Animal League. In addition, readers can get training tips, pet-friendly recipes and view adorable reader-submitted pictures of pets.

Denise Richards

She’s worn many hats over the years — model, actress and devoted mother — but one of her lesser-known roles is animal lover and pet-adoption advocate. For many years, Denise Richards has partnered with Best Friends Animal Society and its ‘Pup My Ride’ program to promote pet adoption. “When I was little, I swear I brought home every stray dog, hoping my parents would let me keep it,” Richards wrote in her blog. Richards wrote that she’d made many trips to a shelter to save between 30 to 50 dog, all scheduled to be euthanized. The dogs then go to Best Friends where they get the chance to be adopted. She has helped more than 2000 dogs find homes. While on her journey with Best Friends, Richards adopted several dogs herself including one with no eyes, one with cancer and one that came from a hoarding situation.

Paul McCartney

Vegetarian and PETA supporter, Paul McCartney is known for speaking out against experimentation on animals. He’s protested for pigs, stood up for seals and defended countless bunnies. “Sometimes people place too much faith in people in white lab coats and assume that there’s a need for animal testing just because it has been going on for so long,” McCartney said in an interview with PETA. McCartney also has supported Animal Defenders International, specifically its ‘Wild Animal Circus Ban.’ “I hate to see wild animals in circuses. It is heartbreaking to see these poor animals confined in small cages and carted around the country with little respect for their welfare and well-being,” he said on his charity blog.

Alyssa Milano

Alyssa Milano uses Twitter to make a difference for animals. With 140 characters, she inspires followers to change the lives of animals across the world. A humanitarian at heart, Milano has been involved with many charities — the animal-related ones include PETA, tonic.com and Adopt-A-Pet.com’s ‘TwitterACritter.’ Milano said about the importance of animals: “They are one of the most beautiful gifts we have and, you know, if there are people that have compassion, there are very few people that put their money into animal rescue organizations. And if there is someone that has that passion, animals need all the help they can get.”

Casey Affleck

“When people ask me why I don’t eat meat or any other animal product, I say because they’re unhealthy and they’re the product of a violent and inhumane industry,” Casey Affleck said in a film montage for PETA. Affleck is a longtime animal rights activist and has campaigned for PETA as well as Farm Sanctuary. In an interview with PETA2, Affleck said that he was currently working on developing his own animal-related charity.

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What do you think of this teaser ad called ‘The Bark Side’ from Volkswagen? The full ad will air during the Super Bowl, so make sure to tune in.

Kayaker finds dog in Gulf of Mexico

Donna Chen was jogging with her dog Barney when she was struck by a drunk driver. A strange unexplained twist of events led Barney into the Gulf of Mexico, where he was rescued by kayaker Rory O’Connor. “He was shaking a lot. Had a bunch of wounds on his leg and was bleeding,” said O’Connor who brought the dog to shore and then a nearby vet. Barney was returned to Chen’s family.

Unwanted pig became guest at dog pound

A 14-week-old pot-belly pig named Bacon Bits was abandoned by his owners after leaving him with a pig sitter. Unable to care for him, the sitter took him to the Paulding County dog pound in northwest Ohio. Bacon Bits was rescued three days after his arrival by Lisa Bartel, co-founder of Heritage Farms Animal Rescue in Liberty Center.

Tips to keep your pet safe in the winter 

Photo by Todd Plitt, USA TODAY

Keep your pet safe this winter with these tips from pet experts:

From the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals: Don’t leave alone in a car: “The vehicle can act like a refrigerator, holding in the cold and freezing your pet to death.”

From the Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital: Antifreeze can be fatal to your pet. Antifreeze poisoning symptoms include: drunk-like behavior, excessive urination and vomiting.

From the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center in Urbana, Ill.: Use pet-friendly versions of products that melt ice, such as Safe Paw and Safe-T-Pet. Also, keep common cold and flu medication for you away from your pet. It can be fatal for your pets. Get more tips from these animal welfare organizations.

A French bulldog has replaced Kim Kardashian for the 2012 Skecher’s Super Bowl commercial. The ad will feature a French bulldog racing a pack of greyhounds at the Tucson Greyhound Park. Grey2K USA, an animal rights group has petitioned to have the ad removed because it claims the greyhounds were mistreated at the park and that it showcases dog racing. Skechers president Leonard Armato has defended the commercial as “a metaphor for a remarkable, underdog achievement.” Note: The American Humane Society has stated that no animals were harmed while making the advertisement.

Lucy, a 3-year-old mini Yorkshire terrier is the newly crowned 'world's smallest working dog.' Photo by STEPHANIE HEBRON, GANNETT

Small dog wins world record

Lucy a mini Yorkshire terrier was named the “world’s smallest working dog” by the Guinness Book of World Records. Lucy, who weighs only 2.5 pounds, works as a therapy dog for Leashes of Love, a program in south New Jersey. Owner Sally Leone Montufar rescued Lucy, nursed her back to health and trained her so that she could help make others happy.

Dog survives avalanche, returns to hotel

Tragedy struck in Montana, when a weekend avalanche separated Ole, a Walsh corgi, from the Gaillards, his owners. Four days later, Ole appeared at the hotel where he’d stayed with his owners. His survival “cheered everyone up,” said Bill Whittle of Cooke City who drove Ole back to his family.

Bring your pet to … Mass?  

Father Roy Snipes is assisted by Bendito. Photo by Douglas A. Young, for USA TODAY.

Father Roy Snipes from Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Mission, Texas, believes in the power of pooches — literally. Along with being a priest, he’s also a dog rescuer who brings his dogs to church with him. “In this dehumanized era, I believe dogs are the angels that will keep us human,” he said. Snipes is not alone, other faith leaders also choose to bring their well-behaved ‘ministry dogs’ with them. Take a look at Father Snipes and his canine companions in this photo gallery.

When an animal runs in front of your car what should you do?

Do you swerve to avoid it? Brake and risk being rear-ended? Or hope that the animal moves? The size of the animal and traffic should be taken into account — but often there isn’t enough time to make a rational decision, says Russ Rader, spokesman for Insurance Institute of Highway Safety. Unfortunately, in most cases, the safest thing to do is hit the animal, he says.

What happens if the animal on the road is your pet? If your pet gets out don’t chase it, but do whatever you can to keep it away from the road. “Try calling and running in the opposite direction, like you are playing,” suggests Cheryl Conway, spokeswoman for Aurora Animal Shelter in Colorado.

Next time you tell your pup to sit, think about this

Photo by Dan Kitwood, Getty Image

Dogs possess skills similar to those of a 6-month old human infant, according to a new study. The study found that making eye contact is helpful when communicating with your dog. Previous studies have echoed that dogs are intelligent and can communicate with their owners. “Dogs have the developmental abilities of a human 2-year-old, with the average dog capable of learning the meanings of 165 words,” said canine-intelligence expert Stanley Coren.

Donation for Detroit’s first no-kill shelter

Founders of the Detroit Dog Rescue (DDR) were surprised to receive an anonymous donation of $1.5 million. DDR, which was founded nine months ago to rescue and rehabilitate strays, plans to use the money for Detroit’s first no-kill shelter. “The problem in Detroit is an epidemic and the system that is in place to control it is broken,” said Monica Martino, co-founder of DDR. There are roughly 50,000 stray dogs in Detroit.

‘New Year’s miracle’ dog reunites with family

The Goss family was reunited with their dog, Tasha after a fatal car crash on Christmas Eve, that left mother Chris Goss dead, and the family pet missing. Fortunately, for the South Florida family, Tasha was found by search and rescue just in time for the new year. She needed several stitches but is otherwise fine.

Owner spends thousands to save her pit bull

Nicole Andree’s pit bull boxer mix Prada was taken more than a year ago to Nashville’s Metro Animal Control after repeatedly fighting with neighborhood dogs. Since then, two courts have ordered Prada to be euthanized, but Andree said that she will continue to appeal until Prada is home. Andree has paid an estimated $17,000 for her dog to stay at the Animal Control (which costs $18 a day) and in legal fees to keep her dog alive. This case raises larger questions about the misunderstood pit bull breed and about euthanizing animals.

Thoughts on euthanasia to control pet population?

Pet owners don’t feel that euthanasia is the solution to controlling shelter’s population problems, according to an AP-Petside.com poll. Most pet owners say that pet shelters should only be allowed to euthanize animals when there is no chance they’ll be adopted — as in they’re too sick or too aggressive.

Interesting takeaways from the poll:

• Pet owners who don’t agree with euthanasia (seven in 10) say that an alternative way to alleviate shelter overpopulation is to promote spaying and neutering.
• 79 percent of young pet owners (under age 30) say euthanasia should only be used on unadoptable animals.
• In 2011, fewer than 4 million abandoned animals were euthanized.

Scruffy helped Dockery overcome his heroin addiction and was euthanized just hours after he brought it to an Arizona Humane Societ. Photo from Gannett/courtesy of Daniel Dockery

Daniel Dockery brought Scruffy, his 9-month-old cat, to an Arizona Humane Society and was devastated when his cat was euthanized because he couldn’t afford to his bill immediately. Dockery had raised Scruffy since birth and said that the cat helped him overcome his heroin addiction.

UPDATE: The Humane Shelter apologized to Dockery and has recently changed its policies. Now, there is an emergency pet fund and credit cards are accepted over the phone. “The agency is immediately taking steps to ensure that the Daniel Dockery situation never repeats itself,” said Humane Society spokeswoman Stacy Pearson.

Hospice for pets 

Stan and Rebecca Burcham, display a memorial to their 13-year-old beagle-shepherd mix, Ruby at their Oak Hill, Tenn. home. Photo by DIPTI VAIDYA, GANNETT

Hospice for pets has been around for nearly 20 years, however, it’s only now beginning to gain national attention. Nearly 1 percent of pet owners have used pet hospice to say goodbye to their pets in their own, personal way.

Dog experts share their pet peeves

Six dog experts offer their best tips for dog owners and animal lovers. One tip: “Love all dogs, not just yours,” said Andrea Arden, a regular on the Today show and author of “Barron’s Dog Training Bible.” People need to “Look at the bigger picture,” when it comes to their pets. Read on to see more helpful tips for training and methods that annoy trainers.

Curiosity didn’t kill this cat

Wayne Polk came across an unexpected surprise in his engine while traveling across Ohio. After four hours of driving, Polk pulled over to a rest stop and found Eclipse – a cat that was stuck in the engine of his car. Eclipse survived the 200 mile trip unscathed and is doing well at an Ohio animal shelter.