Abuse against animals would include “malicious and intentional maiming, mutilation, torture, wounding or killing of a living animal.” “It would also target pet hoarders and operators of animal-fighting rings (such as dog-baiting and cockfighting) who have felony convictions,” according to Time Magazine.

Senate majority leader, Dean Florez introduced the California bill in February.

"We think California is primed for this kind of a bill. We've progressed to the point where we as a legislature are moving in a direction of this bill, which is ultimately, How do we in essence prevent repeat offenses when it comes to cruelty to animals in the state of California?"

Florez estimates that 60% of California residents have pets, and when farm animals are added that number jumps to 80%. Humans care about pets and animals in a profound way and Florez thinks that California is ready for a law such as this.

In Utah, an animal bill is currently under review that would require shelters and animal adoption agencies to attempt to reunite pets with their owners. Under the current system, if a lost dog comes in most shelters do not take the steps to contact the owner, even if the animal is wearing a licensing tag.

- I'm allergic to cats and dogs.
- I'm not much of a pet person.
- I've never had a pet, but I think they're nice.
- I like fish - does that count?

Call me an animal snob, most people do anyway, but I know that anyone who will be in my life for any length of time will need to love pets as much as I do. I think most true pet people would agree.

If you're looking for love from a pet, please come to the Humane Society of Huron Valley and adopt, but if you're looking for human love, we might be able to help in that category as well!

One day many of the staff members at the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) were talking about how they meet compatible people to date, and out of that conversation came an idea that we hope single pet people will embrace - Speed Dating for Animal Lovers.

Help animals in need at HSHV and meet other pet lovers by attending "Speed Dating for Animal Lovers" on Tuesday, March 23.

This fundraiser will benefit HSHV's Hardship Fund, which pays for critical veterinary services for low-income pet owners in our community that need assistance. Registration is $75, and includes appetizers and non-alcoholic drinks. All proceeds from the event go to the Hardship Fund. The event will take place in Ann Arbor and specific details on location and time will be given at the time of registration.

How Does it Work?
The structure of the event is quite simple. Singles are paired up to begin their first "date." Following seven minutes of conversation, a bell is rung, and the men move on to meet their next date. Following each date, participants mark on a card whether they would have an interest in meeting their date again. If (and only if) a mutual interest is noted, speed-dating organizers provide each party with the other's email address and/or phone number the day after the event.

How to Register
The easiest way to register for "Speed Dating for Animal Lovers" is to register online. You can also register by calling 734-661-3525. In both cases, we'll ask you a few questions about yourself and who you're looking for. After you've registered, you'll receive information on the exact time and location of the event. Please note, you must be 21 or older to register.

PETA previously announced it would erect a billboard in Windermere — near Woods' home — with his picture and the words: "Too much sex can be a bad thing ... Always spay or neuter!"

The group, which is known for edgy campaigns, says it decided to put the Woods billboard on hold after talking with the golfer's attorneys.

PETA wouldn't say whether Woods' attorneys threatened to sue.

Instead of Woods, the ad will feature South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford, whose widely known dalliances have also made frequent headlines.

Best Friends Animal Hospital is allowing pet owners to bid on spay and neutering procedures. For the next nine days, the hospital is offering two options for pet owners. There is a choice to either neuter any size dog for $100 or spay any size dog for $150.

Dr. Muhammad Bajwa, who works at the hospital, believes that many animals get put down because they haven't had the proper procedures performed.

"I noticed that there were a large number of pets being euthanized just because of the spays and everything so this is just helping our goal to reduce the pet population," said Bajwa.

Lisa Luksa, who works alongside Bajwa, appreciates how the hospital is trying making a difference.

"I think it's great everyone uses a computer these days. So hopefully the opportunity to do this, will help encourage people to help spay and neuter their animals", said Luksa.

This bid will last for the next nine days.

Guilford County Animal Control officers seized the dogs and cats after being alerted to “unsanitary conditions” at Battleground Pet Inn, said Leigh Anne Garrard, an animal control field supervisor.

Garrard planned Friday to file animal cruelty charges against the business owner, Kaye Jones of 830 Wiley Lewis Road. Jones operates the business from her home. All of the animals taken were Jones’ personal pets, and most of them were dogs.

The state Department of Agriculture also revoked Jones’ license to board, Garrard said.

The animals were at the Guilford County Animal Shelter late Friday, Garrard said, where they were being checked by a veterinarian. “It was obvious that the animals were in need of medical attention,” Garrard said, but she did not provide specifics.

Friday was not the first time animal control officers had visited Jones’ business. “I know that we have been out there multiple times,” Garrard said. “It was the same thing — unsanitary conditions.”

But Jones said there was nothing wrong that couldn’t have been remedied quickly or that warranted taking her animals away from her.

She said the inspector arrived at her home between 8 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. Friday, before the business opened. The inspector raised concerns about dirty runs.

Jones said bad weather had blown leaves and limbs around her runs, and that the weather also had prevented her from clearing out the debris.

She also admitted that a few of her dogs needed haircuts and one had matted hair.

About two-thirds of the animals had up-to-date rabies shots, she said.

Jones said most of the animals taken are older than 12 and had been abandoned or were headed to the shelter to be euthanized, but instead were living out the rest of their lives on her property.

They included Maltese, poodles, and Siamese cats. “I can give them what they need and what they love,” Jones said. “Is death better than being alive?”

Jones said she hasn’t boarded any animals in more than a year. She only had a few animals that she was grooming on site Friday.

Jones said animal control previously had visited her property for noise complaints. A disgruntled customer also made a complaint about the condition of her cages, Jones said.

Records on the N.C. Department of Agriculture’s Web site show that Jones’ pet boarding business passed its annual inspection in February 2009.

"Denis can't watch Animal Planet," Ann tells Animal Radio(r) listeners, "He's afraid of seeing any animal cruelty."

Ann told Animal Radio(r) producer Judy Francis that when Denis made it big, he bought her a horse. Her furry family includes 4 dogs and 3 horses. She says she constantly has to keep her animal hoarding tendencies in check at all times.

Ann says she loves being a guest host on Animal Radio(r). "You know how I ended up on this show? Your producer emailed me to get Denis on, I said ‘how about me?' I pulled a real Lucy Ricardo move!"

Ann's writing and talking about animals is second only to her love for them. "As soon as I get off the air, I'm gonna tweet about Animal Radio, you need a lot more followers and I love to Twitter. I'm on all the time. There are so many people that tweet about their animals."

Hear this special Animal Radio(r) broadcast on XM Satellite Radio ch. 158 (America's Talk) Saturday March 13th at noon EST and rebroadcast Sunday the 14th at 5pm EST. Animal Radio(r) also broadcasts on 99 AM/FM radio affiliates, including KOST 103.5 Los Angeles. See more listening options at AnimalRadio.com

But Beefcake arrived at home with kennel cough, and three weeks later he died of pneumonia. Devastated, Kibler set out to learn more about her dog, joining a growing national movement to educate pet buyers about where their animals come from.

Kibler learned that "Beef" had come from a federally approved breeder in Missouri, a state notorious among animal advocates who target so-called puppy mills.

The pet store offered to replace the puppy, but emotionally spent, Kibler refused. "They said if it wasn't born with a defect they didn't want to give you a refund," said Kibler, who eventually got half her money back.

In Illinois and elsewhere, animal rights activists are growing more strident in their demands that pets be adopted from rescue centers or shelters rather than from retailers who buy dogs from large-scale breeders.

They want retailers to reveal more information about the breeders that produce the bouncing, irresistible puppies they offer for sale, believing that consumers will turn away from pups from big breeders. They use the negative term "puppy mill" to describe not only breeders who mistreat animals, but also those who run legal commercial businesses.

"A good quality breeder breeds the dogs in their homes," said Jordan Matyas, Illinois director for the Humane Society of the United States "When you are talking about someone who has 100 to 200 dogs, that is a massive endeavor and there is no way to socialize those dogs."

The critics also argue that federal standards are not tough enough. The U.S. Department of Agriculture, the main enforcement agency, has not revoked or suspended any Illinois dog breeder's license in five years.

The Humane Society is pushing for a bill pending in the state legislature that would require pet stores to identify breeders who supply their cats and dogs. A companion bill would add more restrictions to licensed kennel operators and breeders.

Some commercial breeders say the activists are going too far.

"They are trying to stir the pot, trying to get uneducated individuals seeing everything their way," said Ryan Rauch, who keeps up to 200 dogs at his R 2 Farm in downstate Beecher City. He raises 10 different breeds of dogs in wire cages, saying it is the only way to keep them clean and healthy, before delivering them to stores such as Petland and Lambs Farm in Libertyville.

Rauch, 40, said he employs eight workers and contracts with a St. Louis veterinarian to care for his puppies. He houses the dogs in four prefabricated buildings off a private rural road, surrounded by farm fields dotted by oil pumps. On Thursday, he declined a request to tour or photograph his operation, where muffled barking could be heard.

Although he takes pride in his business, Rauch said he didn't want to be targeted by animal activists.

"I know there are some individuals out there that are very, very, very poor-quality breeders," he said. "I am a professional breeder. Our dogs are not kept like that."

The Department of Agriculture, which regulates wholesale breeders that sell to pet stores, does not limit the number of dogs kept by breeders and allows animals to be kept in wire cages, which advocates oppose. The state licenses pet retailers that sell directly to the public.

"Sometimes that term ‘puppy mill' gets tossed about and winds up incorrectly covering the vast majority of these breeders," said Dave Sacks, a USDA spokesman based in Riverdale, Md. "Our folks just continue to hold all the breeders accountable to abiding by federal regulations."

Federal and state laws provide for minimum standards of care, prohibiting animal cruelty or suffering, but are difficult to enforce unless an animal is in imminent danger, experts say.

In Illinois, a state budget crisis and historically weak enforcement options also limit animal welfare investigations. Statewide, the Illinois Department of Agriculture employs six inspectors charged with overseeing more than 1,400 pet dealers, including 840 kennel operators and breeders, a spokesman said.

Since June 2008, the state has issued 342 citations for violations, including unsanitary conditions and failure to keep required records on the dogs' health.

"Obviously, we are in a budget crunch and do the best we can with what we are given," said Colleen O'Keefe, a licensed veterinarian and manager of the state Agriculture Department's Food Safety and Animal Protection division.

When the state has revoked licenses, some of the breeders moved and reopened elsewhere, she said.

In March, 2008, authorities removed 49 undernourished and filthy dogs from cages stacked atop each other in an unheated barn in Peotone.

"Some were in cages that were too short for them, and they could never stand up straight," said Susan Murawski of Worth, a former animal shelter volunteer who adopted one of the puppies. "The pans underneath the cages would overflow with urine and feces that would fall to the cage below."

The owner was not a licensed breeder at the time, but applied for and received a license, despite the problems uncovered in the raid. The owner no longer holds a breeder's license, state officials said.

Other cases are not so clear cut.

Jennifer Cantoral said that an employee told her that the miniature poodle she bought for $1,200 at a Naperville Petland store came from a local breeder. Later, Cantoral said, she discovered the dog, Ralphy, came from a USDA-licensed facility in Loogootee, Ind.

A veterinarian who contracts with Petland deemed the dog healthy during an exam within the first week, according to the store's co-owner, Mike Isaac.

Cantoral said the dog was diagnosed 45 days later with kennel cough, which turned into pneumonia. The animal continues to suffer health problems, possibly stemming from an immune disorder, and she blames the breeder and store.

"The pain my family has been through with this entire situation is immeasurable," Cantoral said. While Petland offered to refund her money, she has decided to keep the dog because her children were attached to it.

Isaac disputes that any employee told Cantoral that her puppy came from Naperville, saying that he personally visits the breeders who supply the store's dogs.

"We take a great deal of pride in monitoring our breeders," he said. "We do random checks. We call the veterinarians."

Although Illinois gets harsh reviews from some activists, the nonprofit Animal Legal Defense Fund in December ranked the state the best in the nation for animal protection laws. The Cotati, Calif.-based organization based its rankings on the "relative strength and comprehensiveness of laws," giving Illinois high marks for its felony penalties for cruelty and neglect, mandatory reporting by veterinarians and other measures.

Some cite room for improvement, saying past attempts to strengthen regulations have been opposed by large and small-scale breeders, veterinarians, pet stores, hunters and the Illinois Farm Bureau.

Steve Dale, a Chicago dog behavior consultant, said that he shares the activists' concerns but fears some proposed laws are over-reaching and will penalize good breeders. Dale, also a blogger for Chicago Tribune Media Group's ChicagoNow.com, said the public can more effectively wipe out irresponsible pet dealers by refusing to buy "designer dogs" in pet boutiques.

In January 2009, state Rep. John Fritchey, D-Chicago, proposed a law that would prevent breeders from having more than 20 unaltered dogs older than a year, and prohibiting anyone convicted of a felony under animal welfare laws from getting a license.

It also would have prohibited wire flooring and required consistent cleaning, as well as sufficient heating, cooling and ventilation. But the bill, which would have been among the nation's strongest, never got out of committee, Fritchey said.

Since then, two bills have been introduced that would require pet stores to disclose breeder information to buyers. Both are in committee and face opposition from the same groups that opposed Fritchey's bill.

"One would think that there would not be a lot of opposition to a bill requiring humane treatment of puppies," Fritchey said. "And one would be wrong."

Around 4 pm, a malnourished mountain lion chased a small dog into the home of Michele Bese and her two young children. The lion entered the home through a doggie door leading to the outside yard.

When the lion first entered the home, Michele was unable to tell if it was a coyote or a mountain lion. She made the mountain lion determination after one of her 5 dogs confronted the animal.

Michele was able to secure her children in a bedroom and dial 911. Deputies arrived to the house and were able to get Michele and her children out through a window.

Meanwhile, officials attempted to lure the mountain lion out of the home. When the lion would not leave, wildlife authorities shot it with a tranquilizer gun.

A search of the house turned up 4 of the 5 family dogs. Those 4 dogs were transported to a veterinary clinic where one died from wounds sustained from the mountain lion encounter. Two other dog suffered serious injuries. A secondary search of the family home turned up the 5th dog who had been hiding.

Authorities eventually ended up euthanizing the mountain lion. The young male weighed only 40 lbs, significantly under the 60 lbs that a lion of his age should weigh. Perhaps his hunger is what lead him to make such a bold move into a house full of people and dogs.

Pet owners in rural areas, or those living in developments which border greenbelts or other forested lands should take note from this traumatic story. Housing developments are spilling over into wildlife areas, pushing the animals into smaller and smaller spaces. Human/wildlife encounters are on the rise.

A local Western Washington news station reported just this morning about the high number of coyotes in the greater Seattle area. Encounters with the coyotes are on the rise. Several stories have also been reported in the past year about the increase of raccoons in neighborhood yards.

As the line between natural, wildlife areas continues to blur with residential housing areas, pet owners will need to become more vigilant. Cats and small dogs left unattended in yards are easy prey to a hungry coyote, mountain lion, or even raccoon.

Dog-doors are wonderful for allowing in/out privileges to pets, but owners should be aware that wildlife can enter the home too. You can purchase electronic dog-doors that open only for your pet(s) who are fitted with a special collar.

By midmorning, the two dog parks – one each for dogs under and over 30 pounds – were mosh pits of joyous, stinky abandon. These are the lucky dogs; there's even a vending machine in the parking lot full of squeaky toys and tennis balls.

But a new breed has emerged. You can sometimes see them when the park closes at night. Their owners have removed the dog collars and walked away.

Jim Christian, 76, a regular at the park with his three large dogs, estimates as many as 50 dogs have been abandoned at the park during the past 18 months. Once he tried to confront a man who was leaving his pet. When that didn't get a response, he flagged down police officers patrolling the lake on bikes.

"The policeman looked at me like I was crazy and said, 'We don't have any laws against dumping dogs,' " Christian said.

"The dumping policy needs to be looked at," said Christian, who has rescued two of his three dogs and paid for shots and exams for others so that they could be put up for adoption. "If there is no policy, there needs to be one."

Christian frequents the park for large dogs, but it's a similar story in the small dog park. Just last weekend, regular park visitors Betsy Hanson and Debra Gardenier said they saw two dogs being abandoned while theirs were playing. They said they tried to contact authorities but were told it would take a couple of days to arrange a pickup. So they called another regular, Cyndi Carmichael, who took the dogs to her home and gave them a bath.

By Thursday night, she'd found the dogs a new home with some neighbors, who she said "love them. They are so pleased."

Carmichael and the others are part of an unofficial corps of dog lovers who are troubled by what they see as a growing problem of dog abandonment. They know the no-kill shelters are full and the city is struggling to provide what services it can. But they can't abide the sight of an abandoned pet.

They believe the tough economy, whether it's unemployment or a foreclosed home, causes some people to decide they can't afford to keep their pets.

"What happens is, the first thing people do is let their pets go," Hanson said.

Although the city of Dallas notes on its Web site that its animal shelter has a "night drop box" for unwanted or stray animals, some worry about having to pay a "surrender" fee to give up a pet. Others may believe that their abandoned pet will fare better if left at a dog park than a shelter because there are so many dog lovers around.

The pet owners who found a home for the abandoned dogs last weekend say they can't keep up with the demand unless something changes.

"I wish I had the money and space to adopt every single one I find," Gardenier said.

Terry Humphrey had to take his cat, Kitty Tom, to the shelter after the indoor cat got outside and then bit him. Humphrey's finger swelled up and he went to the doctor to get it checked out. That's when the Health Department caught wind of the incident and insisted the cat be quarantined.

While at the shelter, Kitty Tom was mixed up with a group of Ferrel cats and was later euthanized.

Chief Humane Officer John Davis tells WSAZ.com that the accident has not only left the pet owner heartbroken, but the whole shelter.

"This is the last thing we would ever want to see happen to someone's family pet," Davis said. "There's no way something like this would be considered acceptable."

Davis says that a volunteer mixed up the identity cards that are on the cages. He says that a sign labeled "quarantined" was also missing from the cat's cage.

"We are no longer going to allow volunteers to have any contact at all with quarantined or impounded animals," said Davis.

Quarantined cats and small dogs will now be held in separate room from the other animals.

The identity cards on the cages will also include a picture of the animals to cut down on confusion.

Michael Baughman has worked at PARC for about 18 years. He says that unfortunate incidents like this one show what weaknesses the shelter needs to improve.

"We didn't supervise them as closely as we should have supervised them and we had bad come from it," Baughman said. "I'm certainly going to do what I can to make sure it never happens again."

John Davis says if Humphrey decides he would like to adopt a new pet, the county would be more than willing to handle the fees involved.

The results of the three studies, according to contributing author Dr. Kevin Hahn, director of research and chief medical officer at Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc., show that the dogs that were fed the foods experienced less pain associated with the disease and greater mobility.

"Many of us write off mobility problems in dogs as a part of the aging process," Hahn said. "These studies demonstrate that feeding a food containing omega-3 fatty acids to a dog with osteoarthritis significantly improves mobility and quality of life. All three studies showed significant mobility improvement as assessed by either pet owners, veterinarians, or both."

The studies, published in the January 1, 2010, and March 1, 2010, issues of JAVMA, included 274 dogs with osteoarthritis that took part in clinical studies at dozens of privately owned veterinary clinics and two university veterinary clinics. The researchers focused on three areas: the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on clinical signs of osteoarthritis in dogs; the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on weight bearing in dogs with the disease; and the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) dosage in dogs with osteoarthritis.

In the first study, dogs with chronic pain associated with osteoarthritis showed improvements in their ability to play and rise from rest at six weeks after being switched to a diet containing high concentrations of fish oil omega-3 fatty acids. The second study showed that limb strength in dogs improved with omega-3 dietary intervention, Hahn said.

In the third study, veterinarians were able to reduce the dosage of carprofen, a common NSAID used for pain relief in dogs with osteoarthritis, while still providing pain relief to dogs that were fed food supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids.

These studies show that omega-3 fatty acids provide pain relief and improve mobility in dogs with osteoarthritis. They also indicate that proper use of a food containing a sufficient amount of omega-3 fatty acids may result in a lower dosage of medication required to manage joint pain and improve mobility in a dog with osteoarthritis. This finding is especially important because it allows veterinarians to better understand that complications that may arise from pain relief medications could be reduced when the medications are used in combination with proper nutrition.

"First and foremost, dog owners should always rely on their veterinarian when making decisions regarding their pet's health," Hahn said. "But it's also very important for dog owners to know that osteoarthritis can be a silent and unrecognized problem that affects both the pet's and the owner's quality of life. With proper nutritional intervention, we can enrich and lengthen that special relationship between people and their pets."

Starting March 20th, the 10-year old broadcast facility becomes "The Gift For Life(tm) Studios"

St. Roch De Vita(tm), makers of the highly successful "Genostim GS-6™" supplement, has chosen "The Gift For Life(tm)" name to promote their new canine chewable tablet.

"The Gift For Life(tm)" is a new science in anti-aging, cellular rejuvenation, vitality and longevity in all canines.

"Every dog in the world," says company President Lauriston Crockett, "should be taking 'The Gift For Life(tm).' Our product is going to cause a major paradigm shift in the way people will look at canine health and disease prevention." The Gift For Life(tm) is beyond supplements.

The studio naming is part of an aggressive national branding campaign on traditional and satellite radio, as well as print and online.

"We couldn't think of a better venue for introducing such a powerful modality," says Animal Radio(r) GM Bob Roth. "We've seen dramatic changes in the studio animals' health, and we're proud to share it with a half-million pet lovers every week."

Animal Radio(r) is the "most-listened-to" animal programming in the U.S.; broadcast on 99 AM-FM stations and XM Satellite Radio, and created to educate, reduce surrenders and to help animals live long, healthy and happier lives.

St. Roch De Vita(tm) is the manufacturer/owner of Genostim Performance Labs(tm) "Genostim GS-6(tm)". Mr. Crockett is also the creator of The Ultimate Sex Shot(tm) and Chocolate Extremo(tm) Energy drink. The Gift For Life(tm) is the first true anti-aging formula for K-9's; this product is far beyond the repetitive pet supplements we see in market today. In only a few days you will witness the life giving results of this advanced product. The Gift For Life(tm) is the future in Canine health and longevity. Learn more at www.thegiftforlife.com

"Mr. Max travels with us wherever we go," Montel tells Animal Radio® listeners. "As a matter of fact, I'm angry, I'm going to start petitioning airlines to give animals frequent flyer miles."

"What annoys me is, and I'm not complaining cause I have children myself, but you'll have a screaming hollering child – no one says a thing. They don't even say a thing when that mother takes that child and changes his diaper on somebody’s eating table," raves Montel, "but if Mr. Max makes one little peep, some butthead in first class gets an attitude and makes noise….I say get a grip!"

Hear this special Animal Radio® broadcast on XM Satellite Radio ch. 158 (America's Talk) Saturday March 6th at noon EST and rebroadcast Sunday the 7th at 5pm EST. Animal Radio® also broadcasts on 99 AM/FM radio affiliates, including KOST 103.5 Los Angeles. See more listening options at AnimalRadio.com

Animal Radio® is the "most-listened-to" animal programming in the U.S.; created to educate, reduce surrenders and to help animals live long, healthy and happier lives.

Listen to this special show now!

The doctors behind the opinion piece called for banning pets from plane cabins due to the risk of allergic reactions or even asthma attacks. 

"The preferences of pet owners should not supersede the well-being of their fellow passengers. Pets can be accommodated comfortably and safely in airplane cargo holds, which is where they belong," said the authors. "Airlines must choose to put the needs of their human passengers first, or be forced to do so."

Pet guardians usually shy away from keeping their animals in the luggage holds of the aircraft.  Although pressurized, pets may suffer temperature fluctuations that can be traumatic. Also many stories of lost animals surface because of careless baggage handlers.

The editorial appeared in response to Air Canada’s decision to allow small pets to travel in the passenger cabin.

Victoria Bensch disappeared from her home, in the US state of Arizona, with her pet Queensland heeler on Thursday night.

The three-year-old was dressed only in t-shirt, pants and tennis shoes, despite the cold weather, local TV news station KPHO reported.

But Victoria was able to avoid dying of exposure by holding on to her dog Blue during the 14-hour ordeal before she was spotted by a rescue helicopter at dawn the next morning about a kilometre away from her home.

"She was able to stay warm with the dog," Yavapai County sheriff's office Sgt Jeff Newnum said.

"It's probably what saved her life — it was extremely cold out here."

The loyal dog was initially protective of the girl when help arrived but reportedly moved away when it realised the rescuers were there to help.

"I don't even like animals and I hugged that dog so hard," Victoria's aunt said after the ordeal.

The girl was taken to Phoenix Children's Hospital for an examination but appeared healthy and in good spirits.

Why limit those 140 character conversations to the two-legged. Your pup has so much to say, doesn't it? And besides, it is the latest fad!

The company plans on releasing "Puppy Tweets" a plastic tag for your dog's collar.  The tag is programmed to randomly generate one of 500 Tweets from your dog whenever it senses barking or movement. 

When it hits store shelves, Puppy Tweets will retail for 29.99

The missing pooch disappeared for three weeks. After offering a 5-thousand dollar reward and hiring pet detectives a woman brought back the wayward pup to James’ Long Beach chopper shop. Cinnabun was a bit dirty and 15 pounds lighter.

In his blog statement, James said he was planning on getting his dog micro-chipped and affixed with a GPS tracking device to avoid a repeat.

Dubbed Giant George, the animal from Tuscon, Arizona has been crowned the world's tallest dog. Measuring 43 inches (109 cm) from paw to shoulder and 7 ft 3 in (2.2 metres) from nose to tail, George's giant status was verified by a Guinness World Record adjudicator.

David and Christine Nasser, George's owners, have cared for him since he was seven weeks old. George now weighs 111 kilos and eats about 50 kilos of food every month.

Over the years the dog breed has had a strong hold on the title; the previous two record holders were Great Danes.

The Guinness World Records hopes that people will be encouraged by the tale of Giant George and is launching a series of new pet-related records including the world's oldest cat, smallest dog and the record for the dog with the longest ears.

Animal Friends are a specialist pet insurance company providing dog insurance and cat insurance to British pet owners since 1999 and we now offer horse insurance too.

Central Garden, which is the biggest supplier of PetSmart, PETCO and most independent pet stores, said it would offer $300 million in senior subordinated notes due in 2018.

The company also said it would offer to buy back $150 million in senior subordinated notes paying 9.125 percent interest due in 2013. Debt holders have to tender their notes by 5 p.m. EST on March 5 to participate.

Shares fell 5 cents to $10.06 in aftermarket trading after rising 8 cents to close at $10.11.

When officers called at his flat in Euskirchen, near Cologne, the door was opened by an acquaintance of the missing man who was holding the dog.

The acquaintance said he did not know where the owner was.

But when the dog was set down, it led police to the cupboard, where it stood expectantly with its tail wagging.

Officers who opened the cupboard, which was just a metre (3ft 3in) high and 80cm (2ft 6in) wide, found the fugitive "hunched up inside".

A police spokesman did not say what offence the man was being sought in connection with but told AFP news agency it was "not a capital crime".

Neither the name of the suspect, 52, nor that of the pet was given but, according to AFP, the dog was a Jack Russell terrier.

Five months after her 5-year-old maltipoo, Daisy, was snatched by a coyote, Simpson revealed on Monday that she's finally mulling a new animal companion.

"I'm thinking about getting a pet pig," Simpson, 28, Tweeted. "Does this mean I'll have to give up pork?"

PETA wasn't amused by Simpson's Tweet. A rep for the animal-rights group tells UsMagazine.com exclusively: "Pigs, who are smarter than dogs and every bit as sensitive to pain and stress, don't belong in Jessica's stomach or carted around as her latest accessory."

Should Simpson ignore PETA and go the pig route, she won't be the first in Hollywood: Paris Hilton adopted a miniature "teacup piglet" named Princess Pigelette last fall. The addition to Hilton's menagerie reportedly cost $4500.

Simpson has been without a pet since Daisy, a gift from her ex-husband Nick Lachey, was dragged away by a coyote from her L.A. backyard in September. Following a frantic week-long search, the pooch was never recovered.

"I haven't really thought about another dog yet, but maybe sometime," Simpson told UsMagazine.com in October. "[Daisy] would want that...Daisy meant the world to me."

Convicted animal abusers would be required to register with law enforcement and their picture and information would be found online. The bill is projected to cost about a million dollars -- paid for by pet owners.

The Valley Animal Center in Fresno is home to hundreds of abandoned cats and dogs. Many of the animals arrive at the shelter after suffering extreme abuse.

"We get animals daily and weekly," said Shelter Manager Ralph Elliot. "We have an animal in there with no eyes that someone had chained on a porch."

Elliot believes a registry for animal abusers would give animals a voice and possible curtail abuse -- that often goes unpunished. "They either move, or they just take the animals from them -- and they just start all over again. They go somewhere else and they just start the cycle all over again."

The bill by Senator Dean Florez would require convicted abusers to register with law enforcement. Their name, picture, address and even place of employment would be available to anyone online -- a useful tool for pet adoption centers or shelters.

Senator Flores said, "The practical goal is to make sure we can find whether someone has been convicted of animal abuse and whether we want these sold to that person."

John Shafer, owner of Whitie's Pets in Fresno said he supports the registry -- but isn't thrilled that it would be paid for by pet owners. Florez has proposed a 2-3 cent fee on pet food.

Shafer said, "I support it on a moral basis, but not on a taxation."

Chris Mathys of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association said imposing a fee or tax when so many are out of work --- is simply a bad idea. "Yet another tax creates another layer of expense that frankly the people in the neighborhoods that are trying to make it, just can't afford."

The exact amount of the pet food fee has not yet been establish -- but Senator Florez said any excess funds would go towards spay and neutering programs.

If passed, the animal abuse registry would be the first of its kind in the country.

"Who knew?" said Thomas. "Had I thought he was in danger, I would have looked into it."

Like many pet owners, Thomas was faced with a dilemma: As drug companies continue to develop new veterinary vaccines for numerous diseases and conditions, those who have animals must decide which vaccinations are right for their dog or cat.

"I was given a whole list of shots that Henry needed," Thomas said. "It got kind of confusing. And kind of expensive."
Video: Important pet vaccines
RELATED TOPICS

* American Veterinary Medical Association
* Veterinary Medicine
* Pets

Until recently, vets simply gave all pets booster shots every year. That's because vaccine manufacturers suggested the regimen. And although veterinarians still believe a yearly checkup will keep pets healthy, the number of vaccines given yearly has diminished. Although the American Veterinary Medical Association stresses that shots are the best way to keep your pet and the general public safe, they do admit that yearly boosters and a slew of shots at one time are not always necessary.

"Studies are starting to show that we don't need to vaccinate them every year, said Dr. Ashley Shelton, assistant director of the AVMA. "Some need to be boostered more frequently, others need to be less."

And for some pet owners, that's a bit of a relief, not only for their pocketbooks but for their state of mind. Many animal lovers, like Thomas, shy away from too many inoculations for their pets. "Sometimes I feel they [the medical community] come out with these new vaccines and they push them on us," she said. "I'd like to know what I'm giving my pet."

The AVMA says "core" vaccines, such as rabies, distemper and the vaccine for the parvovirus, are recommended for most dogs in a particular area because they protect from diseases most common in that vicinity. For cats, rabies, feline leukemia and a respiratory vaccine are core vaccines. "Noncore" vaccines are reserved for individual pets with unique needs such as the protection against Lyme vaccine. And they work.

For example, since most states in the U.S. require pets to be vaccinated for rabies, the number of cases in dogs and cats has fallen drastically. More than 90 percent of all animal cases reported annually to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now occur in wildlife. Before 1960, the majority of rabies cases were in domestic animals. According to the AVMA, improved vaccination programs and control of stray animals have been effective in preventing rabies in most pets.

Although human rabies deaths are rare, the AVMA estimates public health costs associated with disease detection, prevention and control have risen, exceeding $300 million annually. These costs include the vaccination of companion animals, animal control programs, maintenance of rabies laboratories and medical costs. But the effort has worked. The CDC estimates one to two people a year die of rabies in the United States.

What once was a yearly vaccine, rabies vaccines are now certified for three years of protection in most areas of the U.S. However, some states still require yearly rabies shots, so talk to your vet.

Drs. Sarah Bowman and Wendy Knight, co-owners of CityPaws Animal Hospital in Washington, D.C., agree that vets should tell pet owners when their pets should be vaccinated and what the vaccines are for.

When the canine flu vaccine became available a few years ago, Knight only mentioned it to her clients. But last year, when the virus became widespread, the clinic made sure owners knew about the vaccine. Not because humans could catch the flu from their dogs -- that appears not to happen -- but because vets were seeing serious consequences in animals.

"There was an outbreak in the last year, and a lot of the dogs were not only getting upper respiratory symptoms, but also pneumonia," Knight said. "We felt it was important that our owners knew it could be a problem. We didn't push it, but we made it clear it [canine flu] was becoming a problem.

Bowman also says it is important that vets and owners talk before coming up with a vaccine program, because a boxer can require different shots from those needed by a bichon frise.

"You can tailor a vaccine series for an individual animal based on age, where the animal lives, is it traveling a lot, whether they go outside," Bowman said.

"Vaccines are no longer one-size-fits-all, Shelton said. "People need to set up a schedule with their vets and keep an accurate record of their pet's vaccines. That way, they'll be able to know what their pet is vaccinated for should an outbreak or problem occur."

Following years of preparation by international travel experts together with veterinarians and customer support veterans, the company developed a unique service that promises to ease pet travel for the millions of families with pets who relocate internationally.

The flight management service allows families traveling with pets to fly with the peace of mind that all the paperwork, regulations documentation and preparations have been professionally managed with emphasis on their pets' safety and health.

"Pet travel is new to aviation and the industry is struggling to cope with its complexities" says Dr. Eytan Kreiner, Head Veterinarian of Animal Airways, "Working with pet owners and concerned for the safety of pets, we recognized a strong need for pet travel and relocation solutions that will allow families to travel together with their pets-simply and safely."

Animal Airways, constantly expanding, provides service to families worldwide, in cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, London, Moscow, Johannesburg, Tel Aviv, Buenos Aires, Mexico City and Madrid.

The company's vision is a world where pets travel as family with the same ease and comfort as their owners. Focusing specifically on relocation of family-owned domestic animals such as cats, dogs and ferrets, Animal Airways plans to advance its vision both by assisting its customers with all their pet travel needs, and by voicing the interests of pets and their owners in the aviation and transport industries.

Daddy, a pit bull that frequently made the rounds with the TV personality and dog trainer, passed away at age 16, surrounded by his family of human caretakers.

The loyal companion to Millan had successfully battled cancer and endured chemotherapy.

The dog trainer is known for his popular television show, “The Dog Whisperer” and for his Dog Psychology Center in Los Angeles. He has made appearances in Orange County to promote his books and training materials, most recently with a visit in October to Passionate Pet’s grand opening in Irvine.

Millan is known for his ability to rehabilitate aggressive or traumatized dogs. He emphasizes training the dog owner first by teaching them to put exercise and discipline first over affection.

“I train people, not dogs,” Millan says.

Millan has been criticized in the past by animal behaviorists who contend his methods of using choke chains with some dogs can be harmful. The American Humane Society, however, announced in February that the group shares a number of areas of interest with Millan and invited him to participate in a symposium on humane dog training, according to Wikipedia.

The research done by the U.K.’s University of Bristol revealed cat owners were more likely to be college graduates than dog owners. The study, which compiled data from almost 3 thousand people, asked about their education, pets and where they lived. 

Dr. Jane Murray led the study and said "cats require less time per day than dogs, so they are more popular with educated people who work late and have long commutes."

Murray said the higher intelligence of cat owners isn’t exactly directly related to the feline mystique, rather pet owners with more education work longer hours.  The cats fit into their lifestyles since they don’t have to be walked like their canine counterparts. 

But dog owners need not feel “dumbed- down”, yet another study showed dogs themselves were smarter than cats.

Stephen and Sally Miller of Las Vegas and their company, ChemNutra Inc., were fined $35,000 and barred from importing pet food ingredients in the future.

Evidence doesn’t indicate that the Millers knowingly or intentionally distributed poisoned ingredients, U.S. Magistrate Judge John T. Maughmer said. But he said they did not exercise due diligence to ensure the product was safe.

In February 2008, a federal indictment charged the Millers with importing more than 800 metric tons of tainted wheat gluten, received at a port of entry in Kansas City, over the course of about four months.

The gluten — which was laced with melamine to make it appear to have a higher protein content than it actually did — was then sold to pet food manufacturers.

The FDA estimates that roughly 1,950 cats and 2,200 dogs died after eating the contaminated food. More than 150 brands of pet food were recalled in 2007.

The Millers pleaded guilty in June.

Two Chinese companies that allegedly added the melamine to the gluten then falsely labeled it to avoid inspection were indicted, too.

However, the United States has no extradition treaty with China that would enable the court to prosecute those companies or their leaders.

As of last Saturday, more than 246,000 people had joined a Facebook page called Demand Justice for Buddy, and more than 114,000 of them signed a petition asking for the harshest possible penalties against the driver.

The Denver Post regularly carries stories about infants being injured or killed by parents or other caregivers. There are probably dozens every year. So there should be Facebook
pages for each of them with scores of members, right?

Don’t bet on it.

Do we care more about animals than people? Journalists inevitably face this question every time a story like Buddy’s grabs so much attention.

A book excerpt in the current issue of The Week, a magazine featuring synopses of national and world news. offers another theory: It’s just too hard for humans to wrap their minds around massive misery. It’s easier to focus on just one creature with a face and a name.

“The brain is simply not very good at capturing the implications of mass suffering,” says Shankar Vandantam, author of “The Hidden Brain.”

“Our hidden brain – my term for a host of mental processes that subtly bias our judgment – shapes our compassion into a telescope. We are best able to respond when we are focused on a single person.”

Vandantam cites as evidence a series of experiments at the University of Oregon. In those tests, two groups of people were asked if they would spend humanitarian money on different-sized groups of needy people. In both cases, they said they would help the smaller groups.

The author also tells the story of Hokget, a small dog left alone on an oil tanker adrift in the Pacific Ocean in 2002. When the world learned of Hokget’s plight, it spurred massive attention
and the expenditure of tens of thousands of dollars to rescue the canine.

But eight years earlier, he said, the world sat on its hands when tens of thousands of Rwandans were killed in a genocidal episode.

“Our empathic telescopes are activated when we hear a single cry for help,” Vandantam said.

“When we think of human suffering on a mass scale, our telescope does not work. because it has not been designed to…”

The affected products are limited to the Nature’s Variety Chicken Formula Raw Frozen Diet packaged in the following forms:

* 3 lb chicken medallions (UPC# 7 69949 60130 2) with a "Best If Used By" date of 11/10/10
* 6 lb chicken patties (UPC# 7 69949 60120 3) with a "Best If Used By" date of 11/10/10
* 2 lb chicken chubs (UPC# 7 69949 60121 0) with a "Best If Used By" date of 11/10/10

The "Best If Used By" date is located on the back of the package above the safe handling instructions. The affected product was distributed through retail stores and internet sales in the United States, and in limited distribution in Canada.

If you are a consumer and have purchased one of the affected products, please return the unopened product to your retailer for a full refund or replacement. If your package has been opened, please dispose of the raw food in a safe manner by securing it in a covered trash receptacle. Then, bring your receipt (or the empty package in a sealed bag) to your local retailer for a full refund or replacement.

Nature’s Variety became aware of a potential problem after receiving a consumer complaint. Subsequent testing indicated that the lot code related to the consumer complaint tested negative for Salmonella. However, additional subsequent testing found the "Best If Used By" date of 11/10/10 to be contaminated with Salmonella.

No pet or human illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this lot code.

Reed Howlett, Nature’s Variety CEO, stated, "Because pet health and safety are our top priority, Nature’s Variety takes every step necessary to ensure the quality and safety of our products. In addition to our industry best manufacturing practices, and in an abundance of caution, all Nature’s Variety raw frozen products now will undergo a ‘test and hold’ period before being released for sale."

Salmonella can affect both humans and animals. Even though no illnesses have been reported, consumers should follow the Safe Handling Guidelines published on the Nature’s Variety package when disposing of the affected product. People handling raw frozen pet foods may become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not followed the safe handling guidelines set forth by the company.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella may experience some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping, or fever. Although rare, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis (inflammation of the lining of the heart), arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, or urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with the affected product should contact their health care provider.

Pets with Salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, or vomiting. Some pets may experience only a decreased appetite, fever, or abdominal pain. Infected, but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed any of the affected products and is experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

Consumers with additional questions can call our dedicated Customer Care line 24 hours a day,
7 days a week at 800-374-3142. Or, consumers can email Nature’s Variety directly by visiting naturesvariety.com.

According to American Kennel Club® (AKC) 2009 registration statistics released today during a press conference at Grand Central Terminal in New York City, the German Shepherd Dog overtook the Yorkshire Terrier last year and is now ranked second most popular in the nation for the first time in more than three decades.

An American favorite since the time of Rin Tin Tin, the German Shepherd Dog became the number one breed of the 1920s, but then slipped in popularity until after World War II.

“Labs have been America’s top dog for nearly two decades due to their loyal and gentle nature,” said AKC Spokesperson Lisa Peterson. “But the German Shepherd Dog has gained ground recently, quite possibly due to the increased attention they receive for their security efforts at home and abroad. Hailed as the world’s leading police, guard and military dog, this energetic and fun-loving breed is a loyal family pet, ideal companion and dependable K-9 partner when duty calls.”

2009 Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.
1. Labrador Retriever
2. German Shepherd Dog
3. Yorkshire Terrier
4. Golden Retriever
5. Beagle
6. Boxer
7. Bulldog
8. Dachshund
9. Poodle
10. Shih Tzu

WORKING K-9s “SNIFF OUT” THE TOP 10

The German Shepherd Dog isn’t the only breed Americans will spot at the airport or train terminal when they travel – Labradors, Golden Retrievers and Beagles work throughout the country to keep the homeland safe. These AKC registered breeds are used by law enforcement military and homeland security personnel for a variety of tasks ranging from border patrol, bomb and narcotics detection, to searching for missing persons and tracking down fugitives.

These four breeds were developed for various forms of hunting or herding, but the traits that made them so effective at these jobs, such as strong scenting ability of the Beagle, the eager-to-please attitude of the Golden Retriever and Labrador, and the bold nature of the German Shepherd, make them effective in their careers today.

“Despite advances in security technology, the canine and its unique abilities remain a valued resource for the military and law enforcement agencies that work to keep us safe,” said Peterson. “The loyalty, intelligence and hardworking nature which make these breeds desirable as K-9 partners in the field also contribute to their status as valuable companions in the hearts of dog owners around the nation.”

PET PREFERENCES: FIFTY OF THE LARGEST CITIES

Top trends in 50 large cities in the U.S. include:
• The ever-popular Lab is slowly losing ground in some towns – more U.S. cities featured a breed other than the Labrador Retriever in its top spot this year than in 2008. The breeds responsible for ousting the 19 year national favorite? The German Shepherd ranked first in Columbus, Detroit, Honolulu, Memphis, Miami, Providence and West Palm Beach; the Yorkshire Terrier triumphed in Oakland, Tampa, NYC, and Philadelphia; the Bulldog rose to the top in L.A.; and the Bull Terrier was a favorite in Newark, NJ.
• The Bulldog is a favorite in California, perhaps due to celeb owners such as Adam Sandler, Kelly Osborne and John Legend. The breed reached the top spot in Los Angeles, the only city where it currently reigns as number one. The wrinkled pooch nearly reached the top in San Diego as well, coming in at the 2nd spot.
• South Florida loves its German Shepherd Dog. The breed ranks first in West Palm Beach as well as Miami, where it has held the top spot since 2002, the first year the American Kennel Club started tracking city registration statistics.
• Providence is the only U.S. city where the Labrador Retriever does not factor into the Top 5. Despite ranking second in 2008, the breed dropped off the list, making room for the German Shepherd in first place, along with the Yorkshire Terrier, Golden Retriever, Boxer and Poodle.
• Unusual breeds on local top five lists include the Bull Terrier (1st in Newark), the Mastiff (4th in Des Moines), the Miniature Pinscher and Shetland Sheepdog (3rd and 5th, respectively, in Richmond) and the Chihuahua (3rd in Honolulu).

PET PREFERENCES: 1999– 2009

Some of the most notable recent trends in the past decade include:
• The most popular pets with the biggest increase in rankings over the last decade included the Bulldog (from 21st to 7th); French Bulldog (from 73rd to 24th); Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (from 58th to 25th) and the making the largest leap the Havanese (from 92nd to 32nd).
• Working K-9 breeds favored by law enforcement and the military have shown modest gains as pets including the Belgian Malinois (from 95th to 81st), the Border Collie (from 71st to 52nd) Bloodhound (from 51st to 43rd), and the Doberman Pinscher which served heroically with the U.S. Military during WWII (from 23rd to 15th).
• A trend toward easy-to-groom breeds is seen with the rise of the Mastiff (from 39th to 27th) and the Rhodesian Ridgeback (from 56th to 48th) as well as the decline of higher maintenance breeds such as the corded breeds the Komondor (from 132nd to 154th) and the Puli (from 123rd to 149th) and on the Irish Terrier (from 108th to 132nd) and Sealyham Terrier (from 138th to 157th) which require hand-stripping.
• Among rare breeds on the decline are the Curly-Coated Retriever (from 114th to 142nd), the Sussex Spaniel (from 135th to 159th) and the Irish Water Spaniel (from 130th to 150th).
• Even before the Obama family selected the Portuguese Water Dog it was on the rise in popularity ranked 80th a decade ago to 60th currently. However, it did make a jump from 64th a year ago when all the interest in this mid-sized, hypoallergenic breed began.

Dog lovers can see and learn more about all of their favorite breeds on Saturday, February 6, 2010, when the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship — where the country’s top dogs compete for $225,000 in prize money and the title of “National Champion” — airs on Animal Planet and the Discovery Channel, 8-11 p.m. (ET/PT). You can also catch the AKC Humane Fund Awards for Canine Excellence honorees, which include the Golden Retriever “Robin” in the Law Enforcement category.

The House voted 71-26 for the bill on Tuesday and sent it to the Senate for consideration.

Supporters say the legislation is critical to protect consumers looking for a family pet.

The bill would require pet stores to put information about the dog or cat on its cage in the store. That includes the animal's medical history, the name of the breeder and any congenital disorders.

Customers could get other information, including the address and size of the breeding operation, upon request or when they buy a dog or cat.

"I asked what's for dinner and she said chicken," LouRee Gayler told Oprah Winfrey on her show today. She remembered her mother Wanda Barzee and her second husband Brian David Mitchell just picking at their meals, "but she had a smile on her face the whole time," Gayler said.

When Gayler went to feed her pet rabbit the next morning, she found the cage empty.

"What happened to Peaches?" she asked her mother, referring to the pet. "You had it for dinner last night," she said her mother replied.

Gayler, the youngest of Barzee's six children, was 14 at the time and had some of the harshest memories of her mother and her two husbands. She recalled being so starved for affection that she would turn to her dog, stay in the doghouse with the pooch and eat dog food out the dog's bowl.

Her older brother Derrick Thompson, who wrote a book about his childhood entitled "Raised By Wolves," said he would escape the physical abuse and cold atmosphere in their home by staying in the large back yard, living there instead of in the house. He would use a pellet gun to shoot birds and cook them over a spit. A sister identified only as Andrea remembered "brainwashing" sessions with her mother.

"We would be called up to her room, and she would sit there and drum into us, 'If you weren't a part of this family, then the family would be fine,'" Andrea said.

"I think the media portrayed my mother as being a victim of Brian David Mitchell, and I think one of the reasons I wanted to come on this show is to kind of expose her for the monster she is," Andrea said.

Mitchell and Barzee have been charged with kidnapping Smart from her home when she was 14 in June 2002. Smart, who was chained and repeatedly raped, was rescued nine months later.

Barzee has pleaded guilty to federal charges, but has not yet been sentenced. She is confined to a mental hospital while awaiting state charges in the Smart case. Mitchell has not yet been tried.

Wanda Barzee's Children Say She Shouldn't See Light of Day

Barzee's children either left home or were thrown out of the house by the time they were 13 or 14, they told Oprah.

Gayler said she left after the rabbit dinner, but it was the "last straw" after years of abuse. She wasn't allowed to watch any television except National Geographic programs and was made to kneel and pray for two or four hours a day.

She recalled one disturbing prayer session.

"My mom was praying and I was kneeling there, and Brian actually nudged me and he pulled out some photos of some nude women and laid them up on the bed, and it seems that they were trying to get me to participate with them that day," she said.

Gayler remembered a toy kitchen she was given as a little girl. "It was one of my favorite things," she said. One day she came home and it was gone, and her mother "got a sense of happiness about it. She had a smirk," Gayler said.

Rhonda McLeod, the oldest of Barzee's children, said she had the closest relationship with her mother and keeps in touch with her by mail.

"I've told her that I've forgiven her," McLeod said. She read part of a recent letter from Barzee in which Barzee said all of her children were "precious" to her.

Gayler shook her head and said the letter "kind of makes me sick."

When asked what punishment they believe their mother deserves, Andrea said her mother should be put away.

"I don't think she should see the light of day again," she said.

Barzee issued a statement to the show through her lawyer saying she couldn't comment because of her upcoming trial, but said she hopes to continue to repair relationships despite her "serious and unique circumstances."

Since she and her husband separated, Frank can't be with her dog, Scout, every day, but she can share news about her and get updates on Dogbook, a third-party application of Facebook.

"It left a big hole in my life when she went to live with my husband ... then we got connected on Dogbook," said Frank, 58, of Silver Spring, Md., who also maintains a profile of her cat, Cinnamon, at Catbook. "The fun part is that I can send little messages to Scout," which are read by friends.

Frank says she can give the pup virtual hugs and scratches behind the ear. She's also been able to hook up with old friends and their pets through the applications, including a woman she went to high school with and her cat. "It makes me feel like I'm more connected," Frank said.

At Dogbook, canine owners can create Facebook profiles for their animals, find dog parks and products, and tag their dogs in photos. Major advertisers on the app include Purina, Toyota and Coke.

Geoffrey B. Roche, co-founder of Poolhouse Enterprises, which produces Dogbook and other pet pages, said the idea came to him a few years ago at the dinner table, and took off quickly. Now, there are about 2 million users on Dogbook and about 1 million on Catbook, he said.

The sites work, he thinks, because people see their pets as more than just animals.

"The dog goes way beyond what was just a dog. It becomes a family member," he said.

"This is a great way to keep track of pets' lives." Users "are as excited to show you pictures of their dog as much as their kid, if not more," he said.

Dogbook's recently launched iPhone application passed 80,000 downloads after just two weeks.

Brandee Barker, a Facebook spokeswoman, said Dogbook has nearly 800,000 active monthly users, followed by about 175,000 on Catbook, 31,000 on Horsebook, 3,900 on Rodentbook and nearly 1,900 on Fishbook.

"From the beginning, our goal has been to provide a platform for people to connect and share about anything that might interest them, and clearly people are very passionate about their pets," Barker said. "So, I think it's a natural extension."

Facebook doesn't allow pet profiles on its main site, where it tries to foster "the real-name culture" and keep up security, Barker said.

Other social networking sites, including Twitter and MySpace, also allow people to post updates and create profiles for pets. One popular cat page at Twitter goes by the handle "Sockington" and boasts more than 1.5 million followers who receive Sockington's (or Sockington's owner's) random thoughts. At MySpace, there are thousands of pet pages and nearly 200 pet-related applications listed in its applications gallery.

Pet-related businesses are using social networking sites to reach and educate customers. For example, PETCO has more than 15,000 fans on Facebook, and joins conversations on Twitter in which customers ask each other and the company questions and share advice on products.

Natalie Malaszenko, director of e-commerce for PETCO, said establishing a relationship with customers is good for business. "It helps us to have an insight and a seat at the table in the life cycle of their pets," she said.

Karen Pudelski, a dog and cat owner from Harvest, Ala., who owns a pet sitting business on the side, said she had been going on Dogbook and Catbook only every few months to update her pets' profiles, but now has become a more regular visitor because of the iPhone application.

The sites are a great way to find pet-friendly businesses or dog parks, she said, or just chat with other pet lovers.

"It's a great way to connect and meet new people who are just like you ... animal lovers, or a way to find a play date for your pet," said Pudelski, 43.

Pudelski, who has two daughters ages 13 and 21, said she has fun posting to her pets' profiles, and virtually throwing a bone or sending a dog toy to business clients.

"My kids laugh at me — I have pictures of the dogs in my wallet but I don't have pictures of them," she said.

The ‘Blind Side’ actress and her biker spouse Jesse James – who wed in 2005 – are so distraught their beloved pet dog Cinnabun is missing, they have enlisted the help of a pet recovery service.

Colleen Busch, from pet detective agency Find Toto, told website E! Online: “I'm in contact with Sandra and Jesse all day. We've been going back and forth checking on tips.”

As well as hiring a detective, the couple have started an online campaign to raise awareness of the missing mutt and help bring her home safely after she went missing from their home in Seal Beach, California, on Monday (25.01.10).

In a plea for information, Jesse – who runs West Coast Choppers motorcycle company - wrote on the company’s website: “We’ve had a few leads, but all dead ends so far, but the search is still definitely on. She’s a great little dog, and we want to find her as soon as possible.

“Please keep your eyes out for our little gal, she’s a light brown and white pit bull, 9 months old, cropped ears, full tail, hazel eyes. Last seen wearing a large pink collar near West Coast Choppers and Cisco Burger on Anaheim St./710 Freeway in Long Beach.”

Jesse also offered a $2,000 reward to anyone who safely returns the pooch.

This is not the first time a celebrity has hired a pet detective to find a missing beloved animal.

Last year, Jessica Simpson also telephoned Find Toto after her dog Daisy was snatched by a coyote. Sadly the Maltipoo was never found.

West Hollywood has been on the forefront of animal related legislation for quite some time, including passing a cat declawing ordinance and referring to animals as "companions" instead of as "pets". There were many animal advocates who spoke strongly in support of this ordinance, which would allow pet stores to sell animals only from rescues or shelters. Ideally, this would take animals out of shelters and reduce the number of pets which are euthanized each year.

Advocates hope that this legislation will now spread to other cities including Los Angeles and surrounding areas, which still allow sale of animals in pet stores.

Judge Jennifer Rymell of Tarrant County, Texas, Court said Saturday that U.S. Global Exotics cannot regain custody of the animals, seized Dec. 15 by the city of Arlington, Texas, in one of the biggest animal cruelty cases in U.S. history, the Fort Worth (Texas) Star-Telegram reported.

An earlier ruling by a city judge had ordered the seizure of mostly reptiles and amphibians from the wholesaler after it was determined they were confined in dirty cages without the proper amounts of food and water.

Rymell's ruling upheld the earlier decision and cannot be appealed, the newspaper said.

Arlington city officials have indicated they will turn the exotic pets over to the SPCA of Texas, which has provided care for them since the December raid.

She takes him to an off-leash beach in the mornings, she teaches him to heel and to wait for her before crossing the street. And throughout the day, he follows her faithfully around her Vancouver condo.

But to say he belongs to her is only partly true.

Ms. Huntley shares ownership of Jay with two other women, who shuttle him between their homes on alternate weeks and take turns caring for him. Jay’s dog tag bears the cellphone numbers of all three of his owners. His registration papers list three addresses, and all of his veterinary bills and food costs are split three ways.

The joint-custody arrangement is less demanding than sole ownership, and ensures Jay always has company, Ms. Huntley said.

“This is amazing for me,” said Ms. Huntley, a full-time university student. “I have a very busy lifestyle, so sometimes, even though I’m sad to give Jay back … I do kind of relish the week off.”

Like time-sharing property, pet-sharing allows animal lovers to split the perks and responsibilities of ownership.

While the practice is old hat for couples sharing custody of pets after a break-up, the advantages of joint ownership are now being explored by busy individuals, frequent travellers and those unprepared for a full-time obligation.

Ms. Huntley had considered getting a dog, but wasn’t sure she was ready to make the commitment. So when, about a year ago, two acquaintances from school who had been dog-sitting Jay suddenly found themselves saddled with him when his owner refused to retrieve him, she accepted their proposal that she share him with them.

“From their angle, the financial burden was quite big … even though they loved the dog,” Ms. Huntley said.

She and Jay quickly became attached to each other, and now she sometimes dreads dropping him off at his other owners’ homes.

“There’s a side of you that wishes he would only want to stay with you and not go to them, but it actually makes me feel great that he gets so excited to go to their house, too,” she said.

Sharing Jay involves compromise, Ms. Huntley said, especially as the three owners have different lifestyles. She considers herself somewhat preppy, but describes the other two as “sort of hippies.”

She doesn’t care if the food they give Jay is organic, but she buys organic anyway because it’s important to her pet-share partners.

Meanwhile, the others tolerate a flea collar she bought for him, despite expressing initial concerns about its potential toxins.

The co-owners have bonded over their common affection for Jay, Ms. Huntley said.

“It’s brought three very unlikely people to actually connect and really respect each other, even though we don’t have any other ties besides our dog.”

In Toronto, writer and editor Kristin Jenkins has been sharing custody of her black cockapoo, Charlie, since June.

The other owners are a couple who were mourning the death of their own dog.

She met Barbara and Robert Langford by chance on the street, when they remarked upon Charlie’s close resemblance to their dead dog – who was also a black cockapoo, named Charley.

Their initial encounter led to an agreement to have the couple dog-sit, and eventually that evolved into sleepovers at the Langfords’ home.

With Ms. Langford in her early 60s and Mr. Langford in his 70s, “they were at an age where they knew they weren’t going to get another dog,” Ms. Jenkins said.

Charlie now spends two to four days a week with the couple, and the rest of the week with Ms. Jenkins.

“He still knows I’m his mother, but Barbara is his other mother,” she said, adding that since the arrangement began, she and Ms. Langford have become tennis partners. “It’s more than dog-sharing. It’s like a wonderful friendship.”

Since pet-sharing requires trust, co-operation and geographical proximity, the practice is unlikely to take off in a big way. Still, those who pet-share say they see few disadvantages, as long as the animals’ needs aren’t put before the owners’ convenience.

As snowbirds who winter in Phoenix, Ariz., Edmontonian Bernie Bykewich and her husband wanted a pet-sharing partner to take care of their two Bichon Laksa-cross dogs for six months at a stretch. They posted an ad on the classifieds site Kijiji in early December.

Although they received a few responses, Ms. Bykewich said, they eventually decided to pay an acquaintance to dog-sit for the winter rather than risk leaving them with strangers.

Since they left Canada in late December, however, their sitter’s young daughter has fallen in love with the dogs, Ms. Bykewich said in a phone interview.

She would hate to break the little girl’s heart by taking the dogs back upon her return, she said, so a shared ownership could still be in the cards.

“It sounds like they’re really becoming close. The dogs are enjoying it, and we’re really happy they’re being looked after and loved, so we shall see.”

When authorities raided the Kansas City drug den, they discovered that the woman had been keeping dozens of chickens in an abandoned house, with no heat, electricity or water. A local dog and cat shelter took temporary custody of the birds, while the search for a permanent home began in earnest.

Catskill Animal Sanctuary director Kathy Stevens said, “We’re delighted to be able to help, and so grateful to our wonderful volunteers for their super-human effort.”

The chickens will be given thorough health exams and any necessary medical treatment when they arrive. As soon as they’re healthy, they’ll be available for adoption within a two-hour radius of CAS. “Chickens are delightful animals,” adds Stevens.

The first shipment of veterinary assistance landed in the Haitian capital this week from the Dominican Republic.

A group of animal rescue organizations have formed ARCH - Animal Relief Coalition for Haiti.

One group, 'In Defense of Animals' Executive Director, Anand Ramanathan, said, "Many of the animals in Haiti were already in poor shape before the earthquake hit...our approach is twofold, deliver immediate relief to animals and ensure lasting progress in Haitian animal welfare."

With a dog population estimated at half a million, only 100,000 Haitian dogs have been vaccinated against rabies. The island nation's government lacks sufficient vaccines and medicine to protect farm animals against cholera or anthrax.

Haiti's Minister of Animal Production said, "We are now at high risk of disease, which is why it is so important to start a vaccination campaign as soon as possible." Plans for members of ARCH go beyond dealing with the tragedy in Port-au-Prince, they plan on setting up veterinary aid for animals in cooperation with the local government.

Haitian's Minister of Environment, Jean Marie Claude Germain, said, "We had not considered including animals in the plans we’re working up now, but after meeting the ARCH team, we can see that it would be good to do so."

ARCH is led by the International Fund for Animal Welfare and the World Society for the Protection of Animals in partnership with over a dozen other animal protection organizations.

Hear Dr. Anand Ramanathan on Animal Radio®

The food is distributed by Merrick Pet Care with a package date of 'Best By 111911.' The treats come in a 10 oz. green and red plastic bag. The 'Best By' date is printed on a part of the bag that is torn off when it's opened. The FDA suggests consumers who are unable to read the 'Best By' date - discontinue use of the product to be safe.

Salmonella can be spread between pets and people. Humans can become infected simply by holding the pet-food. Pet guardians should wash their hands immediately after holding any pet-treat or food.

No illnesses have been reported, however the FDA is warning pet-guardians that already have the questionable pet-treat 'not to handle or feed them to their pets.'

Last December, Merrick Beef Filet Squares had tested positive for Salmonella. A follow-up inspection found problems with the packaging and manufacturing processes.

If you have the treat, you should dispose of it by securing them in the trash, away from prying animal noses.

You should see your doctor if you get any of these symptoms:
Vomiting, diarrhea, cramping or fever.

Untreated, Salmonella can cause endocarditis, arthritis and urinary problems.

You should get your pet to the vet if you see any of these symptoms:
Lethargy, diarrhea, vomiting, fever, decreased appetite.

Infected pets can infect other humans or pets.

As part of a Department of Transportation mandate that went into effect last year, airlines must make sure there are relief areas for service animals like Seeing Eye dogs. As a result, airlines have been working with airports to add or upgrade dog parks in the last year.

For example, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport opened a 1,000-square-foot dog park on the south end of the ground transportation center in November with biodegradable bags for pet waste. American Airlines installed a patch of natural grass near its terminal at Kennedy airport in New York City complete with a fire hydrant.

And Phoenix Sky Harbor airport installed has a Bone Yard outside the baggage claim level with water buckets and water faucets. There is also a park called Paw Pad outside Terminal 3 and another called Pet Patch outside Terminal 2.

Petfriendlytravel.com, focused on travel with pets, has pulled together a list of airport dog areas.

How times have changed. A surge in the popularity of household animals, coupled with the licensing of several new veterinary drugs, is seeing thousands of American dog owners replace comforting marrow-bones with a chemically enhanced modern alternative: Pet Prozac.

Lifestyle drugs to treat troubled canines for depression, anxiety, bad behaviour and even obesity are being launched by pharmaceutical firms anxious to cash-in on the nation's booming love affair with man's best friend. Most of the new pills are almost identical to those popped by humans – and some are proving very controversial indeed.

This month, the American Veterinary Medical Association's (AVMA) annual convention in New Orleans, attended by more than 10,000 of the country's leading vets, saw a heated debate about the doggie anti-depressants Clomicalm and Reconcile, and a product called Slentrol – the world's first canine anti-obesity pill.

In a country where fawning-but-influential celebrities treat pets like furry child replacements, campaigners are worried by developments that further "humanise" domestic creatures, saying they will have a negative impact on animal welfare. When Reconcile, which (apart from a strong taste of beef) is virtually identical to Prozac, was officially licensed in the United States in May last year, the RSPCA issued a critical press release saying it would create an entire generation of "pill-popping pets". Behaviour-altering drugs encourage animal owners to neglect traditional training techniques, it said, in the mistaken belief that they can turn to a miracle medicine if things go wrong.

Pet endorsements from trend-setting film stars already mean that far too many dogs are ending-up in unsuitable homes, where they receive insufficient care and training and often end up suffering from psychological problems.

The Kennel Club blamed Jessica Alba this year for a 220 per cent rise in pug registrations, and said Scarlett Johansson was partly to blame for a doubling in the number of pet chihuahuas. The trend towards miniature dogs is expected to get worse this summer, with the release of a Disney film called Beverly Hills Chihuahua.

Drugs are increasingly seen as a "quick fix" to psychological problems such as "separation anxiety", which now affects 14 per cent of America's dogs. As a result, pet pharmaceuticals represent a lucrative future market for manufacturers. Aside from consumer electronics, domestic pet care is the fastest-growing retail market in the US, up from $11.5bn (£5.8bn) in 2003 to $49bn this year. Major drug firms such as Pfizer are seeing rising demand and their profits from animal medicine increasing by roughly 25 per cent a year. Some have even created their own "Companion Animal" division.

Most new products are aimed at combating "separation anxiety", a condition that typically sees animals become highly agitated when their owner leaves the house. If left alone, they bark, drool, and often defecate, despite having been house-trained. In the company of other dogs, a sufferer will also often behave in an aggressive manner.

"There are animals out there who are literally worrying themselves to death," said the former AVMA president Dr Bonnie Beaver. "As a vet, if the situation is appropriate, then I will prescribe a pill.

"If you have a dog that's constantly hiding under chairs and tables, and it's impossible to even take him to training class, these drugs can at least make it possible for them to learn."

Dr Beaver said that a range of medicines developed for humans can be used on mentally unstable canines. "There's a generic Prozac called Fluoxetine, which can be used if the label version is prohibitively expensive," she said. "Valium is often used to calm down dogs who are having seizures, but you can also use it to help a dog who is scared to death by, say, going in a car. Xanax is used on dogs frightened of thunderstorms."

In the glitzy world of Hollywood dog trainers, many experts now find themselves working with pooches who are wide-eyed, thanks to anti-depressants. Caryl Wolff, a behaviourist who runs the Doggie Manners school in the upmarket suburb of Brentwood, said that increasing numbers of his animal clients have been prescribed psychiatric medication by vets.

"I have a patient now who is on Clomicalm," she said. "It's a recently adopted Malinois mix. When the owner is around, it is affectionate. But as soon as they prepare to leave the house it starts drooling. Then it becomes agitated and barks. While they're away, it will salivate all over the property; it pees and poops, barks and howls and whines."

Although Ms Wolff would rather treat dogs with a mixture of new-age techniques – from aromatherapy to acupressure massages to soothing music – she has no objection to the use of drugs to treat severe conditions. "When you see how these owners are torn apart and see how the dogs are torn apart by separation anxiety, it's difficult not to think that if something can help, and it's a drug, then why not."

However, others, like the television dog trainer David Reinecker, have reservations. Mr Reinecker – who has been hired to look after the welfare of several Hollywood pooches, including Sammy and Spunky, the problem labradors of Arnold Schwarzenegger – fears that psychiatric drugs are increasingly being used as a first resort, rather than a last. "Very, very rarely, once or twice a year, I will have a case where there's nothing that's going to help except drugs but it's a very rare condition," he said. "I would say that 95 per cent of the time you should cure a dog's mental problems without drugs."

Mr Reinecker says he gets a lot of clients coming to him after feeding their pets Clomicalm or Prozac or Reconcile straight off, and then finding that the drugs don't work for them,He prefers to perform what he calls "magic" on a client's dog, which involves a form of "dog-whispering" to diagnose what's wrong. Then he will advise treatments such as aromatherapy or changing an animal's diet to modify behaviour. He's currently spending three days a week at Arnie's home, helping their new puppy, Gustav, who is named after the actor-turned-politician's father.

The most influential member of the anti-drug lobby is the vet Dr Ian Dunbar, who founded the Sirius Dog Training empire, with branches across California. He believes that almost all forms of psychiatric
drugs are unnecessary. "If all puppy owners knew how easy and how much fun it is to raise and train a puppy, we wouldn't need drugs, and we wouldn't need to retrain them as adults," he said.

"People seem to have the impression that all they have to do is to buy the perfect puppy and it will magically turn into the perfect dog. Then they come to me and say, 'When I'm out of the house all day it barks or chews things'. My answer to that is: 'What did you expect it to do? Needlework?'"

"Drug companies are in the business of making money, they have a huge advertising budget and they target pet owners directly. I actually feel sorry for the vets because of this. It means that people come to them having seen the adverts saying 'I want a pill' because they think it will be quick and easy. Mostly it isn't."

Other experts worry that the drugs, which are still relatively new, may end up causing physical or mental dependency among the animals that take them. "I've not seen a physical dependency like you'd get with nicotine or caffeine, but that is to a certain extent an open question," said the Beverly Hills animal psychiatrist Richard Polsky. "There haven't been enough cases for long enough for us to be sure."

Perhaps those bearing the greatest burden,though, will be the pet owners who have to fork out an extra several hundred dollars a month to keep their pooches in happy pills. Indeed, such is the demand for cheaper versions that many Californians are crossing the border into Mexico to secure cheap veterinary drugs from their relatively unregulated market.

In some instances, the wheel has come full circle: as well as animals using human drugs, humans are using the trip to secure animal drugs for home use. A recent Reuters report revealed that euthanasia campaigners are even coming home with liquid pentobarbital, commonly used to put cats and dogs to sleep, to help with assisted suicides.

The canine must-have medicine cabinet

Clomicalm About 14 per cent of American dogs suffer from "separation anxiety" – a fear of being left alone – and Clomicalm claims to deal with the barking and "destructive behaviour". Its human equivalent is Anafranil, an anti-depressant.

Reconcile The chewable anti-depressant is a beef-flavoured Prozac. When used with a training plan, it is supposed to relieve separation anxiety. More than half the dogs using it suffered from short-term side effects
such as lethargy and depression.

Slentrol The world's first canine anti-obesity pill. The makers say it works in the small intestine by preventing all the fat from being absorbed. And voilá, your dog will be the envy of all its canine counterparts.

Anipryl It's not just humans who are living longer, but dogs are too – with the average age of an American dog now at 13. This new drug, also known as L-deprenyl, the identical drug prescribed to people with Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, is used for Cushing's Disease and Canine Cognitive Dysfunction.

Alprazolam (Xanax) It is available on pet prescription to treat anxiety. It has been used to calm canine irritable bowel syndrome as well as "thunderstorm phobia".

“Animals, that's what I want to devote my life to now, ” Emmylou Harris tells Animal Radio® host Hal Abrams. “Animals can teach us how to be better human beings. They've certainly taught me that.”

The singer has been wowing audiences for decades while her true love lives in the legacy of her dog “Bonaparte.” She created a dog-rescue reserve in his name.

“Besides being a great musician, Emmylou has a never-ending passion for the four-legged,” said Animal Radio® producer Judy Francis.

Hear this special Animal Radio® broadcast on XM Satellite Radio ch. 158 (America’s Talk) Saturday February 6th at noon EST and rebroadcast Sunday the 7th at 5pm EST. Animal Radio® also broadcasts on 99 AM/FM radio affiliates, including KOST 103.5 Los Angeles. See more listening options at AnimalRadio.com

Animal Radio® is the "most-listened-to" animal programming in the U.S.; created to educate, reduce surrenders and to help animals live long, healthy and happier lives.

Sam Gosling, professor of Psychology at the University of Texas in Austin, is publishing his findings in the journal Anthrozoös saying it is the first study to break down what cat and dog people tend to be like. Gosling says his study involving over 4500 participants shows dog people and cat people have distinct differences.

According to the findings dog people are more outgoing, easygoing and conscientious, cat people on the other hand tend to be neurotic. But on the up side, cat people are more open than their dog loving counterparts.

Gosling said, "This research suggests there are significant differences on major personality traits between dog people and cat people."

Gosling with the help of grad student Carson Sandy asked 4,565 volunteers 44 questions and ranked them according to the "Big Five" personality dimensions used by psychologists to study personalities. Forty six percent said they were dog people with just 12 percent claiming to be cat lovers. About 28% of those surveyed said they liked both dogs and cats while just 15% didn't like either pet.

When Animal Radio® host Judy Francis asked actress Betty White if she was a 'Cat Person' or 'Dog Person,' she replied "I'm an anything with four-legs person."

Hear Betty White on Animal Radio®.

"My first baby sitters, my first friends were dogs," he says.

But when he came to the United States and wanted to start a circus show with pets, he didn't know where to find any. Animals had always just been around him.

This was after his days with the Moscow Circus, and after he ventured stateside to join the Ringling Brothers Circus.

"I was new in America," Popovich says. "I didn't know where you find pets. The pet store was kind of expensive. My American friend recommended a visit to the local animal shelter. I was surprised--Russia doesn't have animal shelters."

With one trip to a shelter, Popovich found what would become his calling card.

Today he's the ringleader of Comedy Pet Theater, a Las Vegas show made up entirely of animals rescued from shelters.

Playing daily at the Variety Theatre inside the Planet Hollywood Hotel & Casino, Popovich and his pets have been voted best afternoon show and best family show in Vegas.

Occasionally Popovich takes the show on the road, which is what he's doing this week, including a Fresno stop Thursday at the Tower Theatre.

He's coming to town a day early, at the request of the Central California SPCA, to appear at a ribbon-cutting for its new "puppy/cattery" at 1 p.m. Wednesday.

This is his show's third year coming to Fresno.

"I would it call it a Cirque de Soleil with animals," says Tower Theatre manager Susan Neville. "I love the fact that all the animals are rescued animals. People are amazed by that. I want to bring my cats. I want to show them what he does: 'Pay attention.' "

The show is more than just animal tricks. Popovich calls it "theater" for a reason. He says the animals are like actors.

The pets in the show are essentially family to Popovich. He's trained them. And they all live with him and his family. That's 20 cats, 16 dogs and four geese.

"In my show, I try to send a message to the audience," Popovich says. "Hey look, these pets are very talented and have a great personality. If you're looking for a pet, try your local animal shelter."

Hear Gregory Popovich on Animal Radio®

Doctors found poison tucked inside raw hamburger meat in one of the dog's stomachs.

And now, neighbors want to know why.

"Matilda," a Basset Hound puppy and "Rufus," a Chocolate Lab were both loving family dogs. But, Staci Palmer says her children were heartbroken when they mysteriously turned up dead Saturday.

"That was the hardest part is watching my child sob uncontrollably because she lost her friend," said Palmer.

Rufus was found along the road, but Palmer had to watch Matilda suffer.

"When I left, my basset hound was laying on the front porch, and I loved on her for a second, petted her and got back and my basset hound was not there," said Palmer. "So [I went] next door to the neighbor's and there's Matilda. She is having a seizure...at this point she's dying."

And, this was apparently not an isolated incident. Just talking to residents in this area, we heard of nearly 20 cats and dogs dying.

Dr. John Brown at Lake Palestine Animal Hospital saw a couple of these dogs. He was out of town Wednesday but said he found traces of gopher poisoning or Strychnine in raw hamburger meat in one of the dog's stomachs.

"Not only are they poisoning our animals, it's a possibility they're going to poison one of our children," said Palmer.

Henderson County has sent out deputies and animal control to investigate, but need anyone who suspects their pet was poisoned to report it.

"First thing, if there's that many out there to make a case, we're going to have to prove the dogs were poisoned," said Sheriff Ray Nutt.

For families like the Palmers, who have lost their best friends, catching whoever did this won't come soon enough.

"It's a malicious act by a miserable human being," said Palmer.

She scooped up the mushrooms in a plastic bag, grabbed her dog, Maggie, and headed to the vet. Wilson feared Maggie, an 18-month-old beagle formerly used in medical research, had eaten poisonous mushrooms.

She lucked out. Maggie was fine — she apparently did not eat the mushrooms — but other dogs in the Bay Area have not been as lucky. Every year, people and dogs die from eating mushrooms containing deadly toxins. With all the fog, rain and mild temperatures we've had, this must be a banner year for the growth of "death cap" and "death angel" mushrooms.

Wilson's sister works with Northern California German shepherd rescue, and that group got so worried after hearing that four dogs had died of mushroom poisoning that they put out an alert. All of that was weighing on Wilson's mind when she found what she thought were half-eaten mushrooms in her yard.

If you fear your dog has eaten mushrooms, possibly poisonous, "the cheapest, most effective way to handle this is to get them in quickly before the mushrooms are absorbed," said Dr. Brien Bates, Maggie's veterinarian and owner of De Anza Veterinary Clinic. "You can give them medication to make them vomit and activated charcoal."

It's a good lesson for us all. The same mushrooms that kill people can kill cats, dogs and any other critter that
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eats them. The most common culprit is Amanita phalloides, and it is extremely toxic, causing mild to severe vomiting and diarrhea that can lead to more severe problems such as liver damage and death.

"The Bay Area is a very common area for where the poisonous mushrooms are grown," said Dr. Birgit Puschner, a University of California-Davis professor in the Department of Molecular Biosciences and a diplomate on the American Board of Veterinary Toxicology.

In addition to killing dogs, cats and people, "we recently found out Amanita phalloides can also kill cows," she said. "We don't know of any animals not susceptible."

Puschner said an added difficulty with poisonous mushrooms is that often by the time you realize there's a problem with your dog, it can be too late. For the first couple of hours, the dog seems normal, she said.

"By the time the dog shows diarrhea and vomiting, it's already hours past" ingestion. "Tons of things can cause vomiting and diarrhea in a dog, but any suspect exposure to mushrooms should be looked upon as serious."

The highly toxic "death cap" and "death angel" mushrooms are both common in Northern California, especially at Point Reyes National Seashore, Puschner said. They often grow under trees because they like the moisture and can be found under live oak and cork trees.

"A single mushroom of either type can kill a dog," Puschner said.

Ever since the scare with mushrooms and Maggie, Wilson and her daughter check their yard every day and keep a close watch on what Maggie sniffs on her walks.

If there are mushrooms growing in your yard and you catch your dog sniffing around them, it's best to clear them out. If you'd like to check on them first, Puschner said she finds that local mushroom or mycological clubs are "excited to be contacted." You can get their help and advice on what kind of mushrooms are growing in your back yard.

I've always found it safer to just get rid of any mushrooms. I'm sure that makes any self-respecting mycologist cringe, but it seems safer to me. No risk to cats, dogs, kittens or puppies.

Villani is one of America’s leading experts in grooming and pet care, with more than 35 years of experience. He’s a four-time nominee for the Cardinal Crystal Achievement Award and has appeared on numerous television shows, including Animal Planet’s ‘Dogs 101,’ ‘Groomer Has It’ and NBC’s ‘Today Show.’

“Joey Called me during the holidays and said he wanted to be part of all the fun,” said Animal Radio® VP Programming Hal Abrams, “it was a no-brainer… he fits in perfect with our family of neurotic animal loving broadcasters.”

Villani happily spends his time with his wife, Elaine; his three cairn terriers: Myles, Buster, and Simon; and his 29-year-old umbrella cockatoo, Gurney.

Joey Villani joins Animal Radio® Veterinarian Dr. Debbie White, Satirist Vinnie Penn, Animal Communicator Joy Turner, Fido Friendly Publisher Susan Sims, Animal Radio® News Director Bobbie Hill, Musician Britt Savage, Producer Judy Francis and Host Hal Abrams.

Hear Animal Radio® broadcast on XM Satellite Radio ch. 158 (America’s Talk) Saturdays at noon EST and rebroadcast Sundays at 5pm EST. Animal Radio® also broadcasts on 99 AM/FM radio affiliates, including KOST 103.5 Los Angeles. See more listening options at http://AnimalRadio.com

Animal Radio® is the ‘most-listened-to’ animal programming in the U.S. according to Arbitron; created to educate, reduce surrenders and to help animals live long, healthy and happier lives.

Further investigation indicates this isn't the first brush with the law for Esco.

The story, first reported by radio station owner Jerry Lousteau, told of a local animal control officer fired. In a small town, while this is normally news, the undercurrent of why he was fired and the circumstances surrounding it, became the real story.

In this case, Animal Control Officer Alonzo Esco was accused of shooting over 200 dogs, then discarding their carcasses in different rural areas.

Nepotism in government agencies is abundant, and in this case, Esco was the cousin of the previous mayor. During the mayors six years in office, he assigned Esco to two different city departments.

After the revolation that Esco was stealing gas from the fire department, instead of getting rid him, they 'demoted' him, making him an animal control officer, "perhaps thinking that he wouldn’t cause any more trouble," says Lousteau. A new mayor was appointed in July of 2009.

The investigation conducted by the Canton Police Report states that Esco killed over 200 dogs. But, Lousteau says "it's more like 100."

Esco was also an auxiliary policeman, which allowed him to carry a weapon. This is the weapon he reportedly used to shoot the dogs.

It is reported that Esco shot the dogs and then disposed of them in rural areas outside of town over some time, with one body actually being dumped within the city limits. The others bodies have been spread out in many different areas. Some of the bodies of these dogs are still being discovered today.

There is a large stray population of animals in Canton according to Lousteau. "It is thought that Alonzo was under extreme pressure to deal with it. However, he went way outside the policy on how to deal with them. There was actually a mechanism in place to properly handle the situation, but that meant he had to drive to an animal shelter about an hour away."

Alonzo Esco has since been fired for 'improperly disposing of dogs.' The case is being handled by the Madison County District Attorney’s office, and is being treated as a misdemeanor.

There are two petitions to encourage the state of Mississippi to enact a felony penalty for animal cruelty. Mississippi is currently one of a few remaining states where animal cruelty is just a misdemeanor. To sign the petitions, please visit www.wmgoradio.com

Listen to Jerry Lousteau on Animal Radio®

“People who think cats are self-maintaining creatures, you put out a dish of water, a dish of food and you leave the house and the cat’s happy… boy they’re wrong,” Easton tells Animal Radio® listeners.

“One of Sheena’s cats, ‘Puffy’, named after Puff Daddy, has peeing issues,” says Animal Radio® Executive Producer Judy Francis, “she says she’s removed the carpets and couches because of this problem, but she would do anything for the ‘gangsta’ cats.”

Hear this special Animal Radio® broadcast on XM Satellite Radio ch. 158 (America’s Talk) Saturday January 16th at noon EST and rebroadcast Sunday the 17th at 5pm EST. Animal Radio® also broadcasts on 99 AM/FM radio affiliates, including KOST 103.5 Los Angeles. See more listening options at http://AnimalRadio.com

Animal Radio® is the "most-listened-to" animal programming in the U.S.; created to educate, reduce surrenders and to help animals live long, healthy and happier lives.

Two-legged fans of the famed Chargers running back have been bringing their four-legged friends here for more than a year to be boarded, primped, pampered, massaged, healed, trained, fed, watered and walked.

Everyone here cheers for the Chargers. They also bark, howl, meow and purr for the team, too. But only on command.

It's not in every NFL city that you'd find the dark-visored face of a franchise lending his mug to care for your pug. But L.T. isn't your run-of-the-(puppy)mill-type of athlete who would big-time the little creatures.

Tomlinson, 30, who could be playing his final Charger games in this postseason that continues with the AFC divisional playoff on Sunday against the New York Jets, has left his mark with this city's pet lovers. And in this sports age, when adoration endures as long as your last touchdown dance, you can never have too many loyal friends or man's best friends.

Snug is really more the pet project of Tomlinson's wife, LaTorsha, who partnered with Toni Menard, a family friend and experienced dog trainer, to create the unique, one-stop, state-of-the-art pet-care facility. Grooming, boarding, training and veterinary services are all done under one woof, er, roof.

"We tried to think out of the box and give people one comfortable, safe, clean and modern place they can take their pet for everything they need," said LaTorsha. "We considered what we liked at spas as people and how we liked to be pampered and applied it to pets. Oh, and we like football, too."

LaTorsha, who is expecting her first child, called her pets "my first babies." She has a Chihuahua named La Perla. L.T. has Sweetness, an American pit bull terrier he named after his football idol, Walter Payton.

"Sometimes he (Tomlinson) is like a little kid and comes over here and just plays with all the dogs," said LaTorsha, giggling. "He's really supportive with what we're trying to do here. And he'll bring Sweetness here to get his teeth cleaned."

Snug is more than fit for a pet. It's a posh palace, certainly cleaner and more pleasantly aromatic and elegantly decorated than the postgame locker room at Qualcomm Stadium. The pet resort has all the amenities you'd expect to find at a (human) spa, and it's affordable enough so nobody has to break the kitty.

Tranquil music drifts through a spacious grooming room with warm beige walls. Sweet fragrances waft from essential oil burners, calming pets... and a visiting columnist. A full-time groomer massages dogs – but sadly not people – from head to wagging tail, brushes well-conditioned coats and trims nails.

It's all very peaceful and delicate, quite the opposite of football, though there are No. 21, Chargers-inspired doggy shirts available for sale in the first-floor boutique.

On a busy weekend, more than 200 animals stay here. The cats lounge in plush beds, bat at wanded toys and scratch carpeted posts in the second-floor, glass-enclosed "Catery" while the dogs mark their territory in digs ranging from the "Snug dorm rooms" to the "Snug deluxe suites."

The suites – here's where L.T.'s "Ritz Carlton" promo isn't such a stretch – are 200 square-foot penthouses with hardwood floors, an outdoor view from a private window, a ceiling-mounted Vizio flatscreen and a Webcam allowing owners to watch Princess around the clock.

Snug employees bring the boarded pets food, water and, if necessary, medication, and let the pets outside eight to 10 times a day. Penthouse residents get a private, gated outside courtyard while the other dogs get supervised group playtime in a giant backyard covered in Easy Turf.

There's also a rock-bordered dog pool and plenty of room beneath the shade of beach umbrellas. Really, a dog's life doesn't seem so bad – unless, maybe, the pet is here to visit the staff veterinarian in Snug's animal hospital. Or get house trained, taught not to attack the mailman or curbed from tearing up sofa cushions.

"This project has been a dream for us," said Menard, who met the Tomlinsons several years ago when Chargers cornerback Quentin Jammer recommended her a dog trainer. "We're happy to see so many Chargers fans bring there dogs here."

A few even have their dogs stay at Snug while they go to watch the Chargers play at Qualcomm. Perhaps, with a victory on Sunday, both the two- and four-legged Charger fans will get a treat.

The puppy, Tully, had come from a puppy mill, an operation set up by dog breeders who keep their animals in poor condition and over-breed them for profit.

Schlosser, 27, and her husband have taken in more than 40 animals — many from puppy mills. They sign on to care for the neglected dogs until they become adoptable, which "can take anywhere from three days to five months," she said.

Missouri has a reputation as the leading puppy mill state in the country, said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States.

An estimated 3,000 puppy mills operate in Missouri, he said. Oklahoma, the state with the second-most puppy mills, has an estimated 2,000 breeding mills.

Barbara Schmitz wants to change this.

Schmitz, Missouri's director of the Humane Society of the United States, is working with other animal organizations to gather 100,000 signatures to secure the Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act, a spot on the November 2010 general election ballot.

The act would set strict standards for large-scale dog breeders and make violating the standards a misdemeanor. Although puppy mills are illegal under current Missouri law, there is currently no criminal prosecution. Breeders in violation lose their license.

"Dogs raised in puppy mills typically live in confinement in wire cages," Pacelle said. "They're exposed to the elements, bred continuously and denied love and affection from people — all because someone wants to make a profit."

Puppy mills have a significant impact on the Central Missouri Humane Society at 616 Big Bear Blvd.

Two hundred dogs were brought from puppy mills during 2009 alone, Executive Director Alan Allert said. This is one-third of the 600 puppy mill dogs housed at the shelter between 2005 and 2009.

“It’s a big issue in the entire state,” Allert said. The Humane Society in Columbia receives dogs from a large area because it is the only society in mid-Missouri, he said.

The shelter can handle 250 dogs but operates as an "open shelter" so no animal is rejected. When puppy mills are raided, often dozens of seized dogs arrive at once, straining the shelter's resources.

The recent increase in dogs taken to the Humane Society might result from last February's Operation Bark Alert online, Allert said. The Web site allows citizens to report inhumane breeders or puppy mills to be inspected.

On Dec. 15, complaints led animal control officers to an unlicensed kennel near Columbia where 10 toy dogs were being kept outdoors with inadequate protection from the cold.

Officer Debbie Christoff inspected the owner's property and found the animals sick, cold and living in cages with little insulation or support.

"If it were to rain, the water would just come pouring right in," Christoff said.

The owner was cited and told to relinquish the dogs. Christoff said the owner intends to fight the allegations.

Since Operation Bark Alert was initiated, formal complaints have led to 200 investigations. Those investigations resulted in crackdowns on 200 unlicensed breeders and the rescue of 2,900 dogs, said Jon Hagler, director of the Missouri Department of Agriculture.

"We've accomplished more in one year than all the others combined," he said. "We're really proud of these results."

Although Schmitz applauds the outcome, she points to scores of puppies who still aren't given proper food, water, veterinary care and exercise. It is detrimental to these animals, she said.

“When these puppies are raised in dirty, factory-like conditions and then sold to unsuspecting families, everyone is harmed," she said.

As a foster parent, Schlosser said she has seen firsthand how puppy mill dogs behave. Their temperament and personality are noticeably different from most other dogs, something unsuspecting pet buyers may not realize at the time of purchase.

"They don't know they can trust people," she said. "They're timid and terrified because of a complete lack of socialization and human interaction."

Schlosser also said basic fostering steps, such as potty training, are complicated and frustrating.

"The vast majority of these animals are forced to live in their own waste, so it's extremely difficult for them to learn bladder control," she said.

Yet, many of these dogs overcome their past.

"The neat thing about dogs is the vast majority of them are ridiculously resilient," she said. "With a little bit of time and a lot of patience and coaxing, they realize that people are good."

The proposed Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act would require large-scale dog breeders to provide sufficient food, clean water, housing, veterinary care, exercise and adequate rest between breeding cycles.

Pacelle said the act is not meant to attack all dog breeders, but rather to "fight puppy mills that essentially treat their dogs like breeding machines."

The act would also prohibit any breeder from having more than 50 breeding dogs for the purpose of selling their puppies as pets. The most recent legislation on inhumane dog breeders, 1992's Animal Care Facilities Act, has no cap on the number of dogs a breeder can have.

The Missouri Department of Agriculture enforces the current law, and Hagler said it is intended to ensure dogs under the care of breeders “receive adequate shelter, health care and proper socialization."

To obtain a license, a dog breeder must submit an application and pay a fee of $100. Only breeders with three or more females are required to be licensed.

An initial inspection is performed to ensure the breeding facility complies with standards, Hagler said. Currently, 12 animal health officers from the department perform these inspections.

The state is divided into 12 sections, one for each officer. Each licensed breeder is inspected once a year, sometimes more if a facility receives serious complaints from neighbors or other residents.

A breeder who does not pass inspection has the license revoked.

Hagler said the number of current inspectors is insufficient; ideally, there should be 15 to 20, but funding is not available to add more.

Having a license doesn't necessarily mean a breeder's dogs are treated well, Schmitz said.

"Getting people licensed is important, but making sure that everyone who is licensed is treating their animals humanely is also extremely important," she said.

She also thinks the current is law vague and “completely inadequate.”

"It focuses on revoking licenses as a punishment, but with no other deterrence, this leaves an awful amount of room for animal cruelty," she said.

Schmitz and Pacelle believe enforcement would be more successful because any law enforcement officer would be able to apply the misdemeanor charge to offenders. Fines and jail time could result.

Christoff is skeptical about the success of stiffer regulations.

"Since a lot of people doing this breeding don't have a permit or are under the radar anyway, I'm not sure that passing more laws will help the problem," she said.

Hagler believes the key to cracking down on Missouri's puppy mills lies in programs like Operation Bark Alert that seek out unlicensed breeders.

"We have seen consistently in the majority of cases, whether it be neglect or abuse, that failure to meet standards comes from illegal breeding operations," he said.

Setting up in secluded locations seems to be a tactic puppy mill operators use to stay undetected, Schmitz said.

"It's easier to partake in this kind of activity in rural areas," she said. "Since people make a great deal of money this way, it seems as if a subculture has taken root out there."

Pacelle said the Humane Society has attempted to take three bills regarding puppy mills to Jefferson City — one in 2001, another in 2005 and a 2009 antecedent to the current proposal.

"They were dead on arrival," he said.

Schmitz speculated that special interests have gotten in the way of the legislation.

"There are people who make a very large profit engaging in this kind of activity," she said. "When you go into a state capital and try to get an opposite message through, those special interests become very apparent."

The Humane Society has never failed to collect the required signatures and has submitted about 30 statewide ballot initiatives.

The shelter has also been successful in generating financial support. Last February, a flier urging adoption noted that "nearly 300 dogs and puppies came from puppy mills."

More than $15,000 in donations was generated from the flier, Allert said.

"The bottom line is that animals need to be cared for properly," Schmitz said. She will be giving a presentation from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday in the Columbia Public Library's friends room at 100 W. Broadway to raise awareness of and discuss the state's puppy mill issue.

The Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act is supported by the Humane Society of the United States, the Humane Society of Missouri, the Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Supporters hope to have 100,000 signatures by May 2. Once the petition is official and on the November ballot, they will begin campaigning for passage.

Norman Buwalda, 66, went into the tiger’s cage on his property in Southwold, Ontario, to feed the animal on Sunday and was attacked and killed, police said. The tiger weighed some 660 pounds (300 kilograms).

Ontario Provincial Police Constable Troy Carlson said Monday there were no witnesses.

A family member discovered the man’s body and was able to lock the tiger in a separate part of the cage, isolating Buwalda from the pacing tiger until an ambulance arrived.

The attack is not the first one to occur on Buwalda’s property, which houses a number of exotic animals.

In June 2004, a 10-year-old boy was attacked by a tiger that was led out of its cage on a leash so the child could take its picture.

It's 10 a.m. in downtown New York and Casey Butcher is ready for work, but he's forgotten his paper. A lot of New Yorkers start the day with the morning paper. For Butcher, though, the newspaper serves a whole different purpose.

He's in the dog-walking business, and his first client of the day is a French bulldog puppy named Mochi who is about to take care of his own business.

"A lot of dog walkers invest in the blue poop bags, but I try to use an AM New York when I can," Butcher says. "I'm a little aware of my carbon footprint — I can go through, like, 20 bags a day."

Butcher works for a company called Club Pet NYC. It's not the most glamorous way start to a day, but even in this economy, poop pays. How much does it pay? That can be a little controversial.

An article in a 2004 issue of the New York Daily News asked people how much they made. A dog walker named Sammy Swale reported about $50,000, prompting some dismayed online responses such as, "I went to grad school for five years for a Ph.D. and I still make less than the dog walker!" Another reader replied, "The dog walker is lying, we make much more than that!"

Butcher agrees, although he won't say how much he makes. "I have a friend who's making $100,000, and that's with the company taking half. So he brings in about $200,000 a year just walking dogs." That would be a pretty good income even with Manhattan's high cost of living.

But not just anyone is cut out for this line of work. According to the walkers, it's a lot harder than it looks. First, there's the physical toll. Sherman Ewing, the guy who started Club Pet NYC, says his foot grew a size and a half in his first year from walking about 10 miles a day.

Then there are the logistics. Like the keys to 200 apartments.

"What is amazing is I can tell if any are missing just from the sheer weight of it," says Eric Hahn, who has worked for Ewing for the past seven years and considers himself somewhat of an expert walker.

Even so, walking five dogs at a combined weight of 350 pounds can be a little tricky.

"There is a method. People see you with a bunch of dogs and they think it's just random," Hahn says. He explains his system this way: "Whoever is full and has not been emptied yet is on the outside of you — it's a matter of rotation. I need to keep track of who's empty and full because if a dog's about to go and you go into a lobby ... ."

But what makes dog walking truly challenging is that you have to be good with both dogs and people.

"I have people where their kids call me Uncle Eric," Hahn says. "I've had dinner with my clients. It's not like I'm the help, necessarily; it's more like [an] extended member of the family."

The people at Club Pet NYC won't call dog-walking recession-proof. But it certainly will never require a government bailout or a stimulus package. Unlike the banking industry, dog walkers can always count on a high rate of deposit.

Phones are ringing at animal shelters and pet rescue centers as new pet owners try to figure out how to gracefully give away the gift that has stopped giving and instead become an unmanageable drain on time and finances.

"It’s a common problem after the holidays," says Sandra DeFeo, co-executive director of the Humane Society of New York.

"Lots of people come to us before Christmas and say they want to get an animal as a gift for their fiancée, or their mother, or their brother. Then after Christmas, it hits home with the recipient, who didn’t realize how much time a pet would take. People admit they are not prepared and they want us to take care of the animal."

DeFeo says larger breeds are returned more often, and that they’ll probably get even more dogs in February and March.

"That’s because even though a dog can be little and sleepy as a puppy, as they grow they get more energetic and need more training," she explains.

Labs and "any type of hound mix," such as beagle or bassett hound, are brought in very often she says.

So are breeds that require more medical attention, such as allergy-prone bulldogs, DeFeo says.

Pet drop offs have already begun at Animal Haven, an adoption center in downtown Manhattan, says Jennifer Bristol, director of operations. One couple brought in a puppy that a family friend had given to their 4-year-old for Christmas, she said.

It was a mixed-breed shepherd and collie mix. "I felt so bad for this guy," Bristol recalls. "He didn’t want to give up the puppy but was not prepared and couldn’t handle the puppy."

An older woman brought in a dog that her family had gotten her for Christmas - a small mixed breed terrier, Bristol recalls. "I am assuming that in the coming weeks we will see many more dogs brought in," she says.

"People feel sad, but they realize they’re making the right decision to not keep the puppy if they can’t handle it."

Patrick Kwan, New York State director of field Services at The Humane Society of the United States, says his office gets calls from new pet owners who want to work with a shelter or rescue group that does not euthanize the dogs.

"Many of these organizations are overwhelmed by people trying to return an animal," Kwan says.

He notes that the number of animals coming into Animal Care and Control of New York City is on the increase, after decreasing for the last six years.

Joanne Yohannan, senior vice president of operations at The North Shore Animal League America in Port Washington, L.I., which does nearly 20,000 adoptions annually, has not seen an increase in pet returns this month.

"Some of the best commitments can be made if the proper thought is put into it," she says.

"There are a lot of successful adoptions at the holidays. But you have to think about the commitment that goes along with adopting a dog or a cat. Unexpected gift adoptions are not a good idea."

At Animal Care and Control of New York City, which rescues 120 animals a day, spokesperson Richard Gentles says there has been an increase in interest in the "Pets for Life" Program.

"If pet owners have financial hardship or high vet bills, the program gives them alternatives," he explains. "If a family can’t afford an operation, for instance, the program could give a list of vets who might do the operation for free."

Kwan says the best way to avoid the sad scenario of having to give up a puppy is to give a gift certificate for a pet instead of the actual pet.

"This way, after the holidays someone can go in and use the certificate toward an adoption," he says. "Or the person might decide that this is just not the right time to get an animal."

Two days before Thanksgiving, Ms. Young received a call from someone who knew a dog had been picked up by animal control and she was asked to pursue getting the dog so the caller could help place or even adopt the animal herself. When Mississippi Animal Rescue League, the private kennel where dogs are held for a five-day period, was contacted about this dog, it was learned that Canton’s animal control officer, Alonzo Esco, had not arrived at the shelter and had not been seen there for several months, which led to the question, “what is he doing with the dogs?”

Speculation was that Esco had been selling them as bait for dogfighting. But what became clear after an investigation by the Canton Police Department as a result of Debbie Young’s formal affidavit was that Esco had shot at least 100 dogs and dumped their bodies in a Canton waterway. The findings were turned over to the Canton City Council on Tuesday and Mr. Esco’s employment with the city was then terminated.

Because the crimes were not a felony, the case would have to be taken up in a lower court. And the Mayor of Canton said that because it was a misdemeanor, the city would not take up the case at all, leading Debbie Young to file multiple misdemeanor charges on behalf of IDA, which is also seeking the Department of Environmental Quality to file its own charges for an environmental hazard.

“We will not let go of this,” said Doll Stanley, director of IDA’s Project Hope. “It is absolutely appalling and disgusting that an animal control officer working for any municipality would take it upon himself to violate city policy by shooting animals entrusted to his care. We know this goes on in different communities in Mississippi, and we’re hoping that when these same communities see that Mr. Esco is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law that they will wake up and smell the coffee.”

Esco is facing at least 100 counts of animal cruelty for shooting the dogs. IDA is also looking into the fact that he used city property to act illegally.
Sources revealed that Esco was let go from the Canton Fire Department for stealing gasoline and “demoted” to animal control.

“What is very disconcerting is that a city employee would be demoted to animal control. It is really disturbing that an animal control position is not considered respectable. Sadly, here in the Mississippi, animal control is often viewed as a gateway to the police or fire department. As an auxiliary policeman, Esco did have a police weapon and this is the weapon he used to kill these animals.”

On Wednesday morning, WLBT, a local Mississippi TV and radio station, conducted a poll asking listeners what they thought about animal cruelty and should the state statutes be stronger. There was an 86 percent lead in favor of strengthening Mississippi state laws, which IDA’s Doll Stanley has vigorously dedicated herself to for years regarding legislation about animals.

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This year at the 121st Tournament of Roses Parade®, Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance pet food made a big splash with snowboarding dogs careening down a 60 foot slope, complete with Gondola.

Not only was this float fun to watch but also was one for the record books. Danny Girton Jr, an official from Guinness World Records, measured and determined the entry to be the longest single chassis parade float.

Nervous on-watchers cheered as the 113 foot float turned onto Colorado Blvd, more than a 90 degree turn, a feat few thought might not happen. The biggest hurdle wasn't training the dogs, but maneuvering the float through the parade route! Natural Balance President, Joey Herrick (John Davidson Show Band Drummer) told Animal Radio® Executive Producer Judy Francis "our biggest fear is turning the corners - so we've made some practice runs."

The float was made of coconuts, olive pits, corn husks and was created by Fiesta Parade Floats, a float-builder that also constructs props for television commercials, feature films, exhibits and theme parks. Inside sources say that Natural Balance is already working on something bigger and better for 2011.

1. Iams Home 4 the Holidays: Arguably the most successful pet adoption campaign ever, finding homes for over a million pets in 2009 and another million in 2008, not to mention at least another million since the program's inception a decade ago. Founder Mike Arms, of the Helen Woodward Animal Center, Rancho Santa Fe, CA, maintains, "We've only just begun." Here's proof that not all news stories bring bad news!

2. Fighting Dogfighting: Over 300 dogs were confiscated in the grandest dog-fighting bust ever, encompassing eight states. It took federal, state and local officials making arrests on various charges of about 30 people in Missouri, Mississippi, Nebraska, Illinois, Iowa, Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas.

"It's pretty shocking and sad that dog fighting is everywhere, but law enforcement is taking this felony more seriously than ever," says Ledy Van Kavage, senior legislative analyst at Best Friends Animal Society. Also, near Chicago, there was even a dog-fighting bust at a day care center.

3. Foreclosure and Evictions: When people lose their homes, pets do, too - and they often lose their lives. Having nowhere to move with pets, many families are being forced to give up animals to relatives, friends, or local animal shelters. Some pets are just dumped on the street. In some places, animal control reports more stray dogs than they've seen in decades. According to experts, foreclosures and evictions are likely to rise in 2010, and with them, the number of homeless pets.

4. Military Bases Bust Dogs: In January, 2009, the Department of the Army announced a new pet policy for families living on military bases: Pit Bulls (including American Staffordshire Terriers and Staffordshire Bull Terriers), Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, Chow Chows and wolf hybrids are now banned, even if they're model citizens. The decision was made by the Residential Communities Initiative Consortium, made up of six private companies that manage on-base housing.

No one can argue that pets are family members. Michele Obama and Jill Biden both claim to be advocates for military families. I wonder why they haven't spoken out on this issue. It's also interesting that our government refuses to profile potential terrorists at airports but is profiling dog breeds.

5. Catnipped: This summer, a record was set for microchipping of cats. Over 59,000 cats now have permanent identification through the HomeAgain Pet Recovery Service. This is actually the second consecutive year HomeAgain sponsored a summer promotion encouraging microchipping of cats. Also, for each cat microchipped, HomeAgain donated $1 to Winn Felilne Foundation, a non-profit funding cat health research. Not only are thousands of cats now identified, but thousands of dollars will now help all cats.

6. FIP Hope: Many renowned researchers worldwide are engaged in a great race to save kittens from Feline Infectious Peritonitis, a fatal disease. Dr. Al Legendre, a professor, department of small animal clinical sciences at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine-Knoxville, is encouraged by a drug he's working on (Polyprenyl Immunostimulant), which he says is particularly promising for cats with dry FIP.

7. H1N1: Swine flu is on a list for pets because scientists were surprised when a pawful of pet cats caught H1N1 from their human families. Still, the number of feline cases of H1N1 is miniscule. No one knows what made these few cats susceptible. European ferrets are particularly susceptible to all flu bugs.

8. Fido's Flu Shot: While dogs aren't susceptible to H1N1 or any of the human seasonal flu strains, they are at risk to canine influenza. A new vaccine was approved for the dog flu in 2009. It is generally suggested for dogs who are social - those that boarded at kennels, visit dog parks, or even socialize with dogs on walks.

9. Vick Ticks: Convicted dogfighter Michael Vick has enjoyed quite the banner year. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said Vick could play in the NFL if he showed remorse and a team picked him up (which the Philadelphia Eagles wasted no time in doing). Another mandate was for Vick to reach out to the community and provide education about dogfighting. Vick and Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States, made a few well-orchestrated appearances. Who knows, maybe Vick has snuck into at risk neighborhoods without fanfare, but by all accounts, so far that's the extent of his concern.

Vick landed a gig to produce his own reality TV show on BET. In December, he received the Ed Block Courage Award, presented annually to an Eagles player who exemplifies commitment to the principals of sportsmanship and courage. Vick's response: "I've had a lot to overcome, more than probably one single individual can bear."

10. Senator Ted Kennedy's Final Legacy: A Dog Named Bo. The First Family's Portuguese Water Dog was a gift from 'Teddy.' From all accounts, Bo has fit into the White House very well. Arguably, he's more well-behaved than Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel. Certainly, Bo is better looking.

RUNNER-UP TOP PET STORIES

Massage Dave: Marjean Ballner's YouTube video on cat massage has received over 700,000 hits. After the video went viral, Ballner accepted an invitation to appear on the "Late Show with David Letterman." Perhaps Dave needed a rubdown.

Rock 'n Rant: Comedian Chris Rock's rant on the "Jay Leno Show" cost him the lead in the upcoming biopic on Richard Pryor's life. Rock said, "What the hell did Michael Vick do? Pit Bulls aren't even real dogs! Dogs have never been good to black people." Jennifer Pryor (Richard's widow) was outraged at Rock's comments and said they encouraged dogfighting. She pointed out that her husband was a dog lover - and even he wouldn't have gone that far for a laugh.

Franken Yelps for Service Dogs: Sen. Al Franken (D-MN.) could have chosen any initiative for his first effort as a U.S. senator. Impressed by seeing how a service dog changed the life of an injured veteran, he discovered how difficult and expensive it is to procure a service dog. So, Franken successfully sponsored a bill to make these dogs far easier and less expensive to come by for veterans.

Yo Quiero: In July, Gidget, the Taco Bell Chihuahua, died at the age of 15.

Gone Too Soon: Uga VII, the beloved University of Georgia mascot Bulldog was only 4 years old when he died in November.

The 15 animals left Wednesday morning, flying in the main cabin of Virgin America flights, which left from San Francisco International Airport.

Officials from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals were to meet the animals at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and help find them homes.

San Francisco animal control officials say Chihuahuas are in abundance at California animal shelters, but they’re in demand in other states like New York.

Experts say pop culture is to blame for the overpopulation of the dogs in California, with fans imitating Chihuahua-toting celebrities like Paris Hilton.

The Tree of Hope fundraiser, which was held during the holiday season in more than 1,000 Petco stores across the U.S., invited customers to make a donation to help fund grants to animal shelters and rescue groups. On Jan. 6, the San Diego-based retailer reported the campaign raised $4 million, up nearly 30 percent from 2008’s event.

“Donations from thousands of Petco customers will enable the Petco Foundation to help animal shelters and rescue groups worldwide in caring for thousands of homeless pets,” said Paul Jolly, the foundation’s executive director. “Despite the tough economy, our customers continue to give hope and help us address the growing needs of our animal welfare partners.”

Half of the funds raised during the campaign will go to animal welfare organizations in the areas where the money was donated. The Petco Foundation will use the other half for regional programs and relief efforts.

In addition to customer donations, Iams donated $1 to the Petco Foundation for every bag of Iams cat or dog food sold at Petco stores during the Iams Home 4 the Holidays adoption drive. The pet food company also donated a lump sum of $60,000. In total, Iams ended up donating $110,000, according to Petco spokeswoman Brooke Simon.

Petsmart of Phoenix has also reached new heights in its efforts to help homeless pets. Chloe, a collie-mix, is the 4 millionth pet to be adopted from a Petsmart Charities Adoption Center in the U.S.

The Jancarek family of Randolph, N.J., adopted Chloe at a Petsmart store in nearby Rockaway, N.J. Chloe was a rescue from Eleventh Hour Rescue, an all-volunteer, nonprofit agency that takes in dogs who are slated for euthanasia.

On Jan. 9, Chloe, her new family and representatives from Petsmart Charities Inc. and Eleventh Hour Rescue will celebrate the adoption milestone at the Rockaway Petsmart. The event also aims to shed a light on how pet adoption can put an end to euthanasia.

If there's anything Laura Vanderpool enjoys more than watching her new television, it's the company of a faithful four-legged friend -- including her her pet Dalmation Oreo.

But Oreo isn't the only canine cookie that belongs in this dog lover's home.

In mid-November, Laura got ready to put Oreo and Chance outside on leashes. The front door opened too soon, the two dogs ran out and little Chance never came back.

"He took off," Vanderpool said. "I could not catch him. I searched everywhere in ditch lines, out Route 5, into Ashland, out to the interstate -- everywhere."

She even went to the Web site petfinders.com and drove four hours to Ohio to see a pet she thought could be Chance. It wasn't Chance, but she adopted the pet anyway and named him Chance Jr.

Vanderpool posted a reward for chance on the Internet site craigslist.org. She first offered her laptop computer as the reward. When no one one bit on that, she upped the reward ante -- offering her new 50-inch flat screen TV for the return of her missing dog.

"It's the most valuable thing I own besides my car and home," she said.

Laura Vanderpool isn't just any dog lover. She routinely takes in strays and homeless dogs. She adopts some out and keeps a small kennel full. So, why the intense, all-out search for one little mix breed mutt?

"He's my baby," she said. "I'll search until I find him, hopefully alive, but if not, I want to bury him and find out what happened. "

Chance weighs about 20 pounds, he has black wiry hair and a single white toenail on a front paw. If you by chance have Chance or if you've seen him, Vanderpool asks that you call her at 606-615-3231.

We appreciate the ministry’s concern that apartments and industrial areas are not ideal places for the keeping of macaques.

Life in captivity would be stressful for the animals, in addition to the stress experienced as a result of captivity and confinement.

SAM is therefore pleased that the department is reviewing the licences of pet owners in urban and apartment buildings.

The other area of concern is the keeping of macaques by villagers for agricultural purpose. These macaques are acquired when they were babies and trained in the skill of coconut plucking. Often they are tethered to a tree with a chain attached to their necks.

Similarly, village macaques in a socially deprived environment, often kept on their own with little stimulation, would result in welfare and development of stereotypic behaviour, such as pacing or over-grooming as a result of boredom.

The welfare of primates should override all other priorities. The ministry should look into the appointment of an independent consultation body, made up of personnel qualified, specialised and experienced in primate care, who would be able to advise inspection and enforcement officers on the welfare needs of kept primates.

Licence applications by owners should then be subject to a review of the inspection report with recommendations agreed by the body as a whole.

Such a system would greatly benefit the work of local authorities, which are overstretched, lack guidance and are demonstrably, and understandably, inconsistent on the issue.

SAM calls for the prohibition of the buying and selling of primates and the keeping of them as pets.

Does the plan to forbid discrimination against dogs also include cats? And does it include regulations on the practice of charging more monthly rent for having a dog/cat- in addition to the additional deposit? I understand the additional deposit (which should be regulated) but what do they need more monthly rent for?

Garrison Keillor proposed a public option for pet health care a while back, "People love their animals, and if we could just agree that everybody in America should receive the same level of care enjoyed by an elderly golden retriever, we could be done with this and get ready for the World Series." Stumble Upon currently records 1,251 views of "Prohibited Pets." People sure do get worked up about their animals.

To answer your first question, how could you exclude Mr. Mittens, here, from any proposal requiring pets? The answer is unequivocally no, any ordinance of this sort could not exclude cats. In fact under the rubric of the Americans with Disabilities Act, a companion animal can be almost anything. We've argued for and received reasonable accommodations for bunnies, birds, cats and, of course, dogs. I don't know if I'd try it for a companion Komodo Dragon, but who knows? A call to PAWS (Pets Are Wonderful Support should get you a good set of guidelines.

That is one of the problems of an ordinance requiring landlords to accept pets. What sort of pets? The other issues that are being hotly debated are: How does a landlord accommodate existing tenants with allergies or phobias? Landlord liability? (Although I think liability is a red herring. Remember that the landlords were informed and did nothing in the Diane Whipple case.)

It is also interesting to note that landlord groups did not seem to be opposed to a disastrous proposal by the Commission of Animal Control and Welfare that landlords would be allowed to jack up rents 5% to accept pets. See Commission meeting minutes of January 11, 2007. And that several of the commissioners supporting the idea found themselves out of a job by the meeting on June 14, 2007. Hopefully that answers your other questions. To clarify, you'll have pull the Rent Ordinance from my and many, many other tenant advocates' cold, dead hands before we will allow illegal rent increases to buy rights for tenants.

The scuttlebutt I hear is that the Animal Control and Welfare Commission and a progressive supervisor originally supportive of the proposal may be backing away from the current proposal because, even in the tenant community, the issue is not so clear cut.

A compromise that is currently being discussed is an amendment to the Rent Ordinance based on West Hollywood's revision to its Rent Stabilization Ordinance and creating exceptions to limits on pet ownership for seniors, disabled and persons living with HIV/AIDS. While many would argue that it doesn't go far enough, especially in light of local landlords' flip-flopping when there's no dough in it for them, it would address some very real tenant constituency concerns.

* After a walk, remove any ice or snow from your pet's paws and towel him/her off to avoid a chill.
* Make sure your pet has plenty of high-quality protein if he/she is outside - staying warm burns more calories.
* Always give the hood of your car a sharp knock before starting the engine. Cats and other small animals sometimes climb up under the hood of a car to get warm. The noise will wake them up and give them time to escape.
* Never leave your pet in a car in cold weather. Your car is like a refrigerator and may cause hypothermia.
* Make sure your pet has a warm place to sleep.
* Never use metal water bowls outside. When it is cold, your pet's tongue may stick to the metal. Check water frequently to ensure it has not frozen.
* Save that shaved look for warm weather. A dog can use a bit of a fur coat when temperatures dip.

So when San Francisco filmmaker Geralyn Pezanoski traveled to New Orleans and surrounding areas to shoot footage for public service announcements for the Humane Society, the focus was on animal rescue and adoption. Little did she know that the situation would get a whole lot more complicated.

"When I found out close to a year after Katrina that people were fighting over these pets - that there were these custody battles, and (foster families) were resistant to returning them, I saw that there was a much bigger story here than just animals being rescued," Pezanoski said.

The result is a documentary, "Mine," that is touching hearts. It won Audience Awards at the prestigious South By Southwest Film festival in Austin, Texas, and at the San Francisco DocFest in October. On Friday, it opens at the Roxie and also becomes available on iTunes.

The film follows several dog owners - such as 86-year-old Malvin, homeless advocate Jesse and the elderly Gloria; foster families who adopted pets, such as Tiffany and Jeremy, a Florida couple; and rescue workers and shelter volunteers.

Jesse saw his dog featured on a television show, but found it next to impossible to get him back. Tiffany adopted another dog, but when the owner came to claim him she felt the dog had bonded with her family, and refused to send the animal back.

For Pezanoski, this is a story not only about animal rights and bureaucratic malaise but also about how we as human beings treat each other in times of crisis.

"It's about the animals and our love for animals, so all kinds of animal welfare issues come out," Pezanoski said. "But I kept coming back to the issues that involved compassion and empathy and understanding what other people are going through, having a perspective on other people's suffering."

As to those animal welfare issues, Pezanoski points out that because pets are considered property, some situations became contentious legal situations, and some successfully got their pets back after treating their cases as a property issue in court.

Pezanoski, who herself adopted a dog rescued from Katrina - a pointer-boxed named Nola, said ultimately what she took away from her experience of making "Mine" was the resiliency of New Orleans and its people, who still have a long way to go.

"In Malvin, for example, I see that spirit of New Orleans in him, in how he tackles life every day," Pezanoski said.

Hear 'Mine' Director Geralyn Pezanoski on Animal Radio® January 23rd.

The Animal Legal Defense Fund conducted a study recently which ranked Idaho among the five worst states for animal protection legislation. The group’s study showed a lack of felony abuse or neglect provisions along with inadequate regulations on fighting. With no felony neglect or cruelty laws in the state, animal control officers are saying they’d like to see legistation with “more bite”.

The other four states to make the Worst of list are Hawaii, Kentucky, Mississippi and North Dakota. The best five states are New York, Illinois, Michigan, Oregon and California.

“It’s amusing though, most people think I’m dead ...but I’m not really. I’m just out-there,” Jones tells Animal Radio® listeners. He says he’s regularly visits the other Monkees in their rest-homes.

“Davy Jones gets nostalgic and engages the listener on every word…he’s a great entertainer and the true talent on this week’s show…he’s also still petty cute” says Animal Radio® Executive Producer Judy Francis.

Hear this special Animal Radio® broadcast on XM Satellite Radio ch. 158 (America’s Talk) Saturday January 9th at noon EST and Sunday 5 pm EST, or on any of the 99 AM/FM radio affiliates, including KOST 103.5 Los Angeles. See more listening options at http://AnimalRadio.com

Animal Radio® is the "most-listened-to" animal programming in the U.S.; created to educate, reduce surrenders and to help animals live long, healthy and happier lives.

"The yolks, first of all, are orange — deep, deep orange," said Nikki Stoddart, 29, whose 4-year-old daughter has also grown fond of the chickens. "The flavor is so rich, just really tasty."

The eggs are one of the biggest draws for many Peninsula residents who have brought chicken farming from the country to the suburbs in an effort to "eat local." But backyard chicken enthusiasts say there are plenty of other reasons for tending your own flock, including the entertainment of a new pet and teaching children about where their food comes from.

"They're great animals with a lot of personality," said Ken White, president of the Peninsula Humane Society. "It's an opportunity to get a 'pet with benefits' — an animal you enjoy that also gets you breakfast."

In the tech-savvy Bay Area, chicken farmers say tending livestock has found a natural partner on the Internet, as a vibrant online community of blogs and user forums has emerged to help residents share advice on everything from feed mixes to which coop to buy.

Nikki Stoddart, whose family has been raising five hens since the chicks hatched in May, started a "San Mateo Chickens" message board through Yahoo.com. So far, the group has about 60 members, "which doesn't sound
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like a lot, but just for the small geographical area we serve, there's quite a lot of interest," she said.

One popular blog, urbanchickens.net, was founded by Redwood City resident Thomas Kriese, 40, when he and his wife decided to buy two chicks in April 2007.

When the idea first came up, Kriese's first desire wasn't for the eggs — he was after the chicken poop.

"I've had gardens each year and what's worked well (for fertilizer) is chicken manure," Kriese said. "I thought, 'Instead of going out and buying big bags of it, what if we had our own source?' "

Rather than build his own coop, Kriese went online and bought an "eglu," a bright orange, dome-shaped plastic enclosure made by a British company that costs about $500. He got the 2-week-old Barred Rock chicks from a store in Half Moon Bay and bought feed from San Mateo Pet Supply.

Adelina Mendoza, a manager at the San Mateo store, said chicken feed sales have gone up sharply in the past two years, as has the number of people asking about the birds.

"They'll have a lot of questions about feeding and how they should feed them and where should they feed them, should they feed them at certain times," Mendoza said.

The Kriese family's hens — which his 5- and 7-year-old daughters named Sophia and ZsuZsu — grew up to be hearty egg producers, churning out one each per day at their peak in addition to being fun pets.

The Krieses kept the hens until Sophia died in August of an unknown ailment. The family gave ZsuZsu away because chickens don't do well on their own, Kriese said. The family plans to get another pair early next year.

Part of raising chickens in urban areas is being aware of local laws, which vary from city to city. Many Peninsula cities outlaw roosters, which tend to be more noisy than hens.

San Carlos and Mountain View allow residents to keep up to four chickens, Redwood City allows up to three chickens and Palo Alto allows up to six chickens. Menlo Park residents can keep up to 50 chickens per acre. Palo Alto and San Carlos both require chicken farmers to obtain permits from the cities.

Liz Song, a 27-year-old photographer who lives in East Palo Alto, helps take care of the three chickens her housemate owns. She said they're surprisingly easy to manage, mostly requiring food and clean water and an occasional cleaning of the coop.

Another benefit of having your own chickens is knowing exactly what went into the eggs, Song said. "If you want to have nutrients from flax seeds, you can feed them flax seeds," she said.

Song and Stoddart said they've had no complaints from their neighbors about the chickens so far, but bringing chickens into crowded neighborhoods doesn't always go over easy.

Kriese said an anonymous neighbor once called Redwood City's code enforcement officers on him for excessive noise, insisting that the family was keeping a rooster. The family was cleared after the enforcement officers verified both birds were hens.

In addition to their soft clucking, Kriese said chickens also have a louder "egg call" that may have bothered a neighbor. "As you can imagine, passing something that size, they like to announce it," Kriese said.

Still, he said chicken sounds are "no competition" to the constant barking of the neighborhood dogs. He thinks people simply aren't used to hearing chicken sounds in the suburbs.

White, of the Peninsula Humane Society, said chickens are hearty animals and are relatively easy to raise, but prospective owners should make sure they have a safe enclosure that will protect the birds from predators like raccoons. He said his organization almost always has chickens available for adoption.

The hens will stop laying eggs at some point, but most people keep the hens as pets instead of putting them on the dinner table, Kriese said.

"By that time there's such an emotional bond with the bird," Kriese said. "I think 99 percent of people have a difficult time eating something they've named."

A group of 25 dogs has already arrived at the Humane Society for Greater Nashua in New Hampshire, thanks to "Grey's Anatomy" actress Katherine Heigl, Kinder4Rescue in Studio City and American Airlines. And 43 left for New Hampshire last week.

The Nashua shelter found homes for the first 25 and had a waiting list of 100 people, said Kathy Davis, interim general manager of Los Angeles Animal Services, who announced Project Flying Chihuahua this month.

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

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

The Chihuahua crisis in California developed as Hollywood featured the dogs in such movies as "Beverly Hills Chihuahua" and "Legally Blonde." The animals became constant companions to the rich and famous, after which backyard breeders saw a chance to make money and the recession forced some owners to abandon their pets.

California shelters soon found that Chihuahuas made up 30 percent or more of their dog populations.

Officials on both sides of the country are optimistic they can work out the imbalance.

In the last 12 months, animal shelters in the city of Los Angeles have taken in 4,700 Chihuahuas, 1,000 more than the 12 months before that.

Los Angeles has more than 300 Chihuahuas in its shelters now, Davis said, and they are taking in about 340 a month.