khou.com | News for Houston, Texas

September 29, 2006

Kermit the Frog hosts MSU's homecoming

Yes, I know Kermit's not a real animal, but, hey - I've been a fan as as long as I can remember. I used to watch the Muppet Show religiously and I am still wondering what, exactly, the Great Gonzo is.

Anyway, my favorite green frog is hosting homecoming up at Michigan State University. Seems appropriate for a school whose colors are Green and White, and whose on-campus PBS station was one of the original Sesame Street homes.

Kermit led the parade Friday afternoon, will speak at the sold-out alumni banquet Saturday morning, then watch the game this weekend from the press box. Earlier today he read to students at a local elementary school, sharing Dr. Seuss's famous book Green Eggs and Ham.

September 29, 2006

Ridiculously cute baby pandas

Nine new-born panda babies of this year in the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding of the southwestern Sichuan province in China made their debut to the visitors on Thursday to celebrate the National Day holiday. Here's the video!

September 29, 2006

Man who tortured cat sentenced to 8 years in prison

Here's an update to yesterday's post about a man who admitted to torturing a cat then eating its ear. Even the prosecutor said the defendant was "genuinely scary." Well, he can be as scary as he wants in prison, where he'll be spending the next eight years.

The Dallas Morning News has all the details on its website here, and our good friends at ReadLarryPowell.com:

REGARDING CRIMES: Our reliable tipster who was a witness to much of the trial of Ryan Coleman, 21, the guy who tortured and killed Tiger the Cat, plans to send thank-you notes to the folks who prosecuted this human oddity and persuaded the jury to give him 8 years in prison.

And she thought other people might want to join in thanking the prosecutors. So, here are the names and the address: Dallas County Assistant District Attorneys Jennifer Bennett and Josh Healey, District Attorney's Office, Frank Crowley Courts Bldg., 133 N. Industrial, L.B. 19, Dallas, Texas, 75207.

These cases can't be easy -- the facts may be a slam/dunk, but when you deal with motive and method, it's got to stick with you for a while.

September 29, 2006

Escaped hamster interrupts jet flight

INNSBRUCK, Austria - It wasn't "Snakes on a Plane," but an Austrian Airlines jet made an unscheduled stop Friday after a passenger sneaked a hamster aboard and the rodent escaped.

The flight from Palma de Mallorca, Spain, to the southern Austrian city of Graz made a stop in Innsbruck so officials could search for the hamster and make sure it didn't gnaw through any wiring, the airline said.

It said the flight was diverted after a passenger notified the crew that he had brought a hamster aboard and had lost track of it. Passengers were ordered off the plane, and some were taken by bus to Graz. It was not immediately clear how many people were aboard.

By midafternoon, a search of the aircraft still had not turned up any sign of the hamster, authorities said.

Austrian Airlines said the jet would remain grounded until the hamster was found "because it can't take off that way for safety reasons."

September 29, 2006

New Houston dog park opening this weekend

Click the pic for a map to the park

The Houston Parks and Recreation Department, in conjunction with the Houston Parks Board, is pleased to join the Upper Kirby Management District at the dedication and celebration of Levy Park Phase II and Paws in the Park. Houston Mayor Bill White and Council Member Anne Clutterbuck, District C, will attend the celebration on Saturday, September 30, 2006, from 9:00 a.m.-11:00a.m. Levy Park is located at 3801 Eastside, Houston, 77098.

Tucked away on a cul-de-sac street in the Upper Kirby District, the 64 year-old-park has blossomed under the care of the Upper Kirby Management District’s adoption agreement with the Houston Parks and Recreation Department. Since adopting the park, The Upper Kirby District has shown their dedication to the upkeep of Levy with a two-phase renovation project. Phase I, completed in 2003, included the construction of a community garden and gathering space on the north end of the park. Phase II improvements have added a new playground with a fall surface, new benches and picnic tables under an arbor, a new granite gravel walking trail, fresh landscaping with raised planters, and a rebuilt parking area with drainage and lighting improvements.

A Paws in the Park event, complete with a Blessing of the Pets ceremony performed by Father Bill of St. Anne Catholic Church, will celebrate the opening of the Levy Park Dog Park. Pets of all types, furred, feathered and finned, are invited to participate as long as they stay on a leash.

September 29, 2006

Vote for your favorite Animal Planet Hero

Animal Planet has narrowed its list of Animal Hero finalists to 10. On the list is Tammy Grimes of Dogs Deserve Better, who was recently arrested for freeing a chained dog (taking it off someone's property) who she believed was dying. I blogged about it here, and you can read more here. You can vote in the Animal Planet contest at this website.

September 28, 2006

Man details torture and killing of cat

Uh.. this really makes me wonder what goes through some people's minds... This is from KHOU.com's website..

A 21-year-old Dallas man calmly testified Wednesday about how he tortured a cat for "a big laugh," cutting its tail and ear off while the animal was still alive before setting it ablaze.

Then, he said, he ate the severed ear as a friend videotaped the episode.

Ryan Coleman seemed detached as he recounted the abuse he inflicted on the cat, including cutting off its tail with a kitchen knife.

"It came off pretty easily," Mr. Coleman said in court. "Inch-thick-steak easy."

Mr. Coleman, who has been in jail since February, pleaded guilty to a charge of animal cruelty on Tuesday. He said he hoped for probation but did not expect it.

"I deserve whatever you give me," he told the jury Wednesday as they prepared to determine his punishment.

Mr. Coleman's father, Robert Coleman, asked for leniency but described his son as a "sociopath" who had been an "ugly rotten kid."

"I've never heard him say he's sorry for what he did," he said. "I don't think he's capable of it."

Read the rest of the story on KHOU.com's website here.

And there's also this disturbing addendum from ReadLarryPowell.com:

FROM THE COURTHOUSE: One of our reliable tipsters has been attending the Dallas trial of Ryan Coleman who pled guilty Tuesday to animal cruelty in the case of Tiger the Cat. The trial is now in the punishment phrase, which means that evidence is being presented and that evidence will be used by a jury to determine what punishment should be applied. Tiger was mutilated before being killed in Nov. 2003 and it took a while to make the case, it seems.

As often happens in criminal cases, defense attorneys summoned family members to testify on the bad guy's behalf. The father of the accused, we're told, "first made sure that the courtroom knew he and his family were Mensa members and that the son he raised was a DISD chess champion -- 'a prodigy,' according to him."

The father also said he thought the son's killing of the cat stopped his bipolar son's out of control spiral. (Aside: Mensa member? I'll bet Mensa's reviewing those membership rules.)

The father, noting that his son had been in jail since February, testified that "enough is enough," says our courtroom monitor, who adds, "I wonder how much little Tiger thought was 'enough' as he was being tortured, shot, had his ear and tail cut off and was set on fire."

September 27, 2006

Teens allegedly fed kittens to a pit bull

Police are trying to learn the names of several teenagers and one of their mothers after the teens allegedly fed kittens to a pit bull at a northeast Dallas apartment complex Monday night.

A police report states that the juveniles took several kittens from a blue plastic box, threw them on the ground and kicked them to a pit bull, which tore them apart.

A woman who stopped with her family to check her mail at the Sienna Springs Apartments at 9455 Skillman St. in far northeast Dallas about 7:20 p.m. Monday said a group of children and teenagers had gathered around to watch the spectacle.

"It was very disgusting," said Elia Brown, 33, of Dallas. "There were 20 kids watching. Some of them, like the younger children, were scared, some were shocked, and some of the older ones were enjoying it."

Ms. Brown tried to intervene but said she was assaulted by the pit bull owner's mother, who allegedly told her to "mind her own business."

Some of the teenagers allegedly scooped up the kittens' bodies in a yellow bucket while others chased Ms. Brown and her family with sticks and bats.

"My two children were very afraid," she said Tuesday. "We couldn't stay there that night. ... We're going to have to move. We can't be around that."

Read more of the story on KHOU.com's website here.

September 26, 2006

Pet Evacuation Bill goes to President Bush

A year after Katrina and Rita devastated families not only by destroying homes and lives but separating them from their pets, a bill that would allow animals to evacuate with their people has finally gone to the White House.

Here is some background of the Pets Evacuation and Transportation Standards Act (PETS) from the Humane Society of the US:

"The House PETS legislation, which originally passed overwhelmingly by 349-24 in May, was introduced by Rep. Tom Lantos (D-CA) and Rep. Chris Shays (R-CT) just weeks after Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast, and was followed by a Senate version that was introduced by Sen. Ted Stevens (R-AK) and Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) and passed unanimously in August. The final bill that will be sent to the President contains provisions to help with disaster planning, including:

--requiring that local and state emergency preparedness authorities include plans for pets and service animals in disaster plans to qualify for grants from FEMA

--granting FEMA the authority to assist states and local communities in developing disaster plans to accommodate people with pets and service animals

--authorizing federal funds to help create pet-friendly emergency shelter facilities

--allowing FEMA to provide assistance for individuals with pets and service animals, and the animals themselves following a major disaster

With the President's signature, this bill would become a LAW!

September 26, 2006

BARC's pet of the week

Meet Pearl... right here! She's one of many, many animals at Houston's BARC, the city pound, looking for a permanent, loving home. BARC information and adoption hours are here.

September 26, 2006

Cities that are tops for traveling with your pets

From Triple-A...

Four Texas cities -- Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas -- top the list of North America's most accommodating cities for travelers with pets, based on the number of pet-friendly lodgings included in the latest edition of Traveling with your Pet: The AAA PetBook. The AAA PetBook, with more than 13,000 listings of hotels and other accommodations that allow pets, is a comprehensive travel guide for pet owners.

"Houston is ranked number one as the 'most-accommodating city' for pets, not only in the U.S., but in North America," said Rose Rougeau, spokesperson for AAA Texas, who is based in Houston.

According to the Travel Industry Association , 29 million travelers have taken a pet with them on a trip in the past three years, and 29% stayed in hotels and motels with their pets. Dogs are the most common type of pet to take along (78%), with cats a distant second (15%), according to the TIA. In addition, of the people who said that a hotel's pet policy made an impact on their decision of where to stay, 35% said it was the most important factor in their decision.

This ranking of cities is based on the number of AAA Approved and Diamond rated pet-friendly hotels. The list also notes pet-friendly AAA Approved attractions, the number of local dog parks listed on official city Web sites and other outside sources, and the number of American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) accredited animal clinics.

1. Houston, TX --This Texas city made it to the top of our list with 108 pet-friendly accommodations available, including three AAA-RATED Five Diamond hotels. The city of Houston reports maintaining two off-leash dog parks, and 20 AAHA accredited emergency veterinary hospitals.

2. San Antonio, TX -- You won't have any problems finding a place to stay with Fido while visiting the Alamo. San Antonio boasts 98 AAA-RATED lodgings that accept pets, maintains one dog park and nine accredited emergency vet hospitals in the city.

3. Austin, TX -- The live-music capital of the world is a great place to vacation with your pet, with 72 AAA-RATED hotels and motels that accept pets. There are 15 accredited animal hospitals, and the city of Austin reports maintaining 12 off-leash dog parks!

4. Albuquerque, NM -- This southwestern city has 300 years of history to share with you and Rover. While you're there, choose from Albuquerque's 66 AAA-RATED lodgings and visit one of the city's eight dog parks. The city has 10 accredited animal hospitals.

5. Phoenix, AZ -- Known for its native artwork and laid-back atmosphere, Phoenix also welcomes four-legged friends in 64 AAA-RATED accommodations, and encourages them to take a vacation of their own at one of the city's five leash-free dog parks. There are 12 accredited animal hospitals, just in case.

September 25, 2006

Running for a Reason

I had a reader, who was checking out the post about the Astros fundraising calendar for Saving Animals, leave a comment about "Run for a Reason," the charity drive of the Houston Marathon. He remarked that two of the charities of the 35 "official" charities listed for the marathon are Citizens for Animal Protection and the Houston SPCA.

On my top three list of things to love -- besides 1)my family and friends, and 2)animals -- is running. I would not be a sane human being if I didn't have the ability to lace up my running shoes and go out and run. I've done a few marathons, and Houston's big race is near and dear to my heart. They're hoping to raise $1 million for their 35 chosen charities this year!

You may know someone who is raising money for one of the Houston Marathon charities, and you can donate to them. If not, check out the main page for the Marathon charity drive here. You can also make marathon donations to the SPCA (here) and CAP (here).

September 25, 2006

Best Friends airlifting animals from Lebanon

Crates that will carry the dogs to the US
Courtesy Bestfriends.org

What an effort this has been. Best Friends has been working with Beirut for the Ethical Treatment of Animals to airlift 295 dogs and cats from the city to its no-kill shelter in Utah. As you know, Lebanon had been involved in a conflict with Israel and there was a great deal of destruction on both sides. Not only were humans displaced but so were animals. Best Friends has gone in to help re-home some of the four legged victims.

The plane landed in New York at 3PM Houston time to refuel before making its final stop in Las Vegas. There is just way too much to blog about here/ Best Friends has a site with all the updates here.

September 21, 2006

Promoting the Astros/Saving Animals 2007 calendar...

Uh.. that IS my dog Bailey.
She just didn't want to sit still!

No, that is not some crazy devil dog in that picture. In fact, both dogs were being wiggle worms while Max Mixson and I posed for this picture. We teamed up today to promoted the upcoming 2007 Astros Pets calendar (previous blog post about the Astros photoshoot here). Today I headed over to VT2 studios, which donated its time and people power to help Saving Animals Across Borders produce some announcements about the calendar. Max, formerly of Animal Planet's Animal Cops Houston, and who is now working with Saving Animals to head up their pet adoption center at Northwest Mall, worked as "animal handler" for the shoot. He brought this beautiful little girl pup who let him carry her around as if she were a baby. She starred in the promos, and my girl Bailey hung out and collected belly scratches. I'm happy to say the BARC pup was adopted by one of the people at the studios.

The calendars will be out soon, and feature Houston Astros posing with either their pets, or pets from BARC. You'll be able to purchast them through Saving Animals' website here or pick them up at all Houston area Petco stores.. We have to thank Evin Thayer for taking the photos, the Astros for being such good sports, and Active Imagination. Proceeds will benefit Saving Animals' Pet Adoption Center at Northwest Mall and the Astros in Action Foundation.

September 21, 2006

Bottled water for your dog?

Hmmm... I heard about this on Paul Harvey (GOOD DAY!) today... designer dog water. It's from the K9 Water Company and it comes in four flavors... Gutter water/Beef, Toilet water/Chicken, Puddle Water/LIver, and Hose Water/Lamb. It's fortified with vitamins and costs $7.49 for a pack of four, with discounts if you buy in quantity.

I spoil my dogs. Yes, I do. But, for my dogs, who think gourmet is drinking straight out of the toilet, why would I buy them bottled water?

September 20, 2006

What a little foster love (and money) can do

BEFORE

AFTER

Last month, I blogged about two strays in the Pinemont/Acres Homes area, which has become a dumping ground (according to at least one animal rescuer) for stray dogs. Remember this guy?

Yeah! He - named Sugar Ray, for his fighting spirit - is a walking miracle with fur. He was picked up, fostered, and is enduring some pretty tough heartworm treatments. Here's an update from his rescuer and his foster mama:

"I'm happy to report that Sugar Ray made it through the weekend, although it didn't pass without incident, and he did have to see the doctor on Monday. Gail found some droplets of blood in his cage Saturday morning, and then about 1:00 a.m. Sunday morning, he let out a very loud bark and when she went to check on him, she found he had sprayed blood out through his bark. That was very frightening. Then I went to visit him Sunday afternoon and he was very excited to see me - started with the
tail wag and then the whole-body wiggle. While it was wonderful to see his reaction, we soon realized he was dripping blood from his nose and had to quickly get him back to being SUPER quiet, and soon the bleeding stopped. It was so hard to not just get down and love all over him - we did the best we could, as he buried his head in my lap - it was so sweet and I almost cried.

That being said, he actually looks pretty darn good! All of his hair has completely grown back in and you can barely see his ribs anymore - he is starting to fill out some and has gained 5 lbs. since he went to live with Gail (she's a good cook!). But the best part is his eyes, which looked brighter and more alert - no longer that glazed, dull look.

It's hard to believe he looks so much better on the outside, but is in worse shape on the inside right now! But he had a favorable report on Monday and they say he is healing, even though it will be a slow process. It will be harder to keep him super quiet as he starts to feel better, but right now he seems to be quite content in his "den".

September 20, 2006

Houston kennel ordinance amended by city council

Updating a story I posted last month, about kennels being prohibited within 100 feet of houses, churches, schools and hospitals in the city of Houston: today, Houston's city council today amended an ordinance that banned kennels from operating within a hundred feet of homes and schools. Kennels that existed before homes were built around them had to shut down or move...but not any more. The new amended ordinance grandfathers kennels that were there first.

September 19, 2006

Pet of the week is in!

Dollly is adorable. You can learn more about here here.

September 15, 2006

Katrina Dog that swam for his life still needs a home

This dog was made famous after photographer Troy Snow, working wtih Best Friends animal rescue, took his picture during rescue efforts in New Orleans. He (Ripper) and a buddy (named Domino) had been standing on a car roof, waiting for ANYONE to come by. When Ripper saw the Best Friends boat, he jumped in the water and swam for them.

Domino was adopted out, but Ripper's still in foster. He's trained and ready to go! Contact Leah at Spindletop at SPINDLETOPRESCUE@aol. In the meantime, you can read the rest of the story at Best Friends' website here.

September 15, 2006

The Rainbow Bridge - and the Rescuer's Rainbow Bridge

One of the pet owners here at Channel 11 lost her cat suddenly last night. She is broken up about it, and bless her heart, she's soldiering on here at work. If you're reading this website I wager you would share my sentiment that the loss of a pet brings about REAL grief. We mourn for our lost family members.

Do animals have souls? I won't even touch that theological discussion with a ten foot pole (you can sneak a peek at these links here, here, here if you want) but I'd wager most folks reading this - who believe in an afterlife - are certainly hoping their pets will be there, too.

If you've already heard of The Rainbow Bridge, you know its significance to a pet owner in mourning. If you haven't, read on. I still don't know who the author is, but the it's common over the internet...

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then, you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

I have also seen another version of this that is especially for rescued animals:
UPDATE! The author of the following is Benny Archuleta, who is the president of The Dachshund Rescue Web Page, Inc. This has been slightly altered from his original story.

Unlike most days at Rainbow Bridge, this day dawned cold and gray, damp as a swamp and as dismal as could be imagined. All the recent arrivals were confused and concerned. They had no idea what to think for they had never experienced a day like this before. But the animals who had spent some time waiting for their beloved people knew exactly what was happening and began to gather at the pathway leading to the Bridge to watch. They knew this was something special.
It wasn't too long before an elderly animal came into view, head hung heavy and low with tail dragging along the ground. The other animals on the pathway...the ones who had been at Rainbow Bridge for a while...knew the story of this sad creature immediately. They had seen it happen far too many times.

Although it was obvious the animal's heart was leaden and he was totally overcome with emotional pain and hurt, there was no sign of injury or any illness. Unlike the pets waiting at the Bridge, this dog had not been restored to his prime. He was full of neither health nor vigor. He approached slowly and painfully, watching all the pets who were by now watching him. He knew he was out of place here. This was no resting place for him. He felt instinctively that the sooner he could cross over, the happier he would be. But alas, as he came closer to the Bridge, his way was barred by the appearance of an Angel who spoke softly to the old dog and apologized sorrowfully, telling him that he would not be able to pass. Only those animals who were with their special people could pass over the Rainbow Bridge. And he had no special beloved people...not here at the Bridge nor on Earth below.

With no place else to turn, the poor elderly dog looked toward the fields before the Bridge. There, in a separate area nearby, he spotted a group of other sad-eyed animals like himself...elderly and infirm. Unlike the pets waiting for their special people, these animals weren't playing, but simply lying on the green grass, forlornly and miserably staring out at the pathway leading to the Bridge. The recent arrival knew he had no choice but to join them. And so, he took his place among them, just watching the pathway and waiting.

One of the newest arrivals at the Bridge, who was waiting for his special people, could not understand what he had just witnessed and asked one of the pets who had been there for some time to explain it to him.

"That poor dog was a rescue, sent to the pound when his owner grew tired of him. The way you see him now, with graying fur and sad, cloudy eyes, was exactly the way he was when he was put into the kennels. He never, ever made it out and passed on only with the love and comfort that the kennel workers could give him as he left his miserable and unloved existence on Earth for good. Because he had no family or special person to give his love, he has nobody to escort him across the Bridge."

The first animal thought about this for a minute and then asked, "So what will happen now?"

As he was about to receive his answer, the clouds suddenly parted and the all-invasive gloom lifted. Coming toward the Bridge could be seen a single figure...a person who, on Earth, had seemed quite ordinary...a person who, just like the elderly dog, had just left Earth forever. This figure turned toward a group of the sad animals and extended outstretched palms. The sweetest sounds they had ever heard echoed gently above them and all were bathed in a pure and golden light. Instantly, each was young and healthy again, just as they had been in the prime of life.

From within the gathering of pets waiting for their special people, a group of animals emerged and moved toward the pathway. As they came close to the passing figure, each bowed low and each received a tender pat on the head or a scratch behind the ears. Their eyes grew even brighter as the figure softly murmured each name. Then, the newly-restored pets fell into line behind the figure and quietly followed this person to the Bridge, where they all crossed together.

The recent arrival who had been watching, was amazed. "What happened?"

"That was a rescuer," came the answer. "That person spent a lifetime trying to help pets of all kinds. The ones you saw bowing in respect were those who found new homes because of such unselfish work. They will cross when their families arrive. Those you saw restored were ones who never found homes. When a rescuer arrives, they are permitted to perform one, final act of rescue. They are allowed to escort those poor pets that couldn't place on Earth across the Rainbow Bridge. You see, all animals are special to them...just as they are special to all animals."

"I think I like rescuers," said the recent arrival.

"So does God," was the reply.

September 15, 2006

3rd rare white buffalo born on Wisconsin farm

A farm in Wisconsin is quickly becoming hallowed ground for American Indians with the birth of its third white buffalo, an animal considered sacred by many tribes for its potential to bring good fortune and peace.

"We took one look at it and I can’t repeat what I thought but I thought, 'Here we go again,'" said owner Dave Heider.

Thousands of people stopped by Heider's Janesville farm after the birth of the first white buffalo, a female named Miracle who died in 2004 at the age of 10. The second was born in 1996 but died after three days.

Heider said he discovered the third white buffalo, a newborn male, after a storm in late August.

Over the weekend, about 50 American Indians held a drum ceremony to honor the calf, which has yet to be named, he said.

Read the rest of the story on KHOU.com's website here.

September 14, 2006

Clifford the Big Red Dog, American Humane promote Adopt-A-Dog Month in October

™ and © Scholastic Inc.
CLIFFORDTHE BIG RED DOG,
™ Norman Bridwell.
All rights reserved.

Clifford the Big Red Dog is using his considerable crimson presence to help millions of homeless dogs throughout October as the official "spokesdog" for American Humane’s Adopt-A-Dog Month, American Humane announced Thursday.

The month-long event is observed every year to encourage people to help homeless animals by opening their hearts and homes to dogs in need.

"There is a great need for people to go to a shelter and find their new best friend," said Marie Belew Wheatley, American Humane Association president and CEO. "With Clifford's help, more people will recognize that by adopting a dog from a shelter, they’re saving the lives of these precious animals and giving them much-needed, loving homes -- while also enriching their own lives."

Read the rest of the story on KHOU.com's website here. You can also see the American Humane's Clifford website here.

September 14, 2006

BARC's pet of the week

BARC director Kent Robertson is showing off his animals again.. check them out here..

September 14, 2006

Update on the Liberty Pit Bull Pups

This story just keeps getting sadder. Turns out many of the pit bull puppies that were supposed to be auctioned off after they were seized in Liberty County (a judicial ruling, not the Humane Society's decision) are very sick or dying, and they have been for some time.

"...the pits contracted not only Parvo but a blood-transmitted disease called Babesiosis," says HHS spokesperson Courtney Frank.

They were able to save some of the parvo pups, but because HHS has to send out the test for Babesiosis (they don't do it 'in-house'), they didn't know many of the pups had that, too.

Courtney goes on..."As I understand it, Babesiosis presents a lot like parvo, with listlessness, weight loss, and ultimately internal bleeding and bloody waste, preceding death. It is transmitted most often via labor and delivery of pups, ticks, and bites (which obviously is common among the fighting pit population.)"

She also says they've known the pups were sick for a while, HHS had been asked "to keep this information quiet for the past few weeks, because it would have been presented at trial, if Ms. Laban (the dogs' owner) had appealed. Both of these diseases speak to the condition in which these puppies were kept, and would have been evidence against her appeal for custody."

There's much more information in today's article in the Houston Chronicle.

September 13, 2006

Pit bulls kill cat, attack owner

Rhonda Trujillo-Lambert watched
the dogs kill her cat then
turn on her

Watch the story here

A Texas City woman survived a terrifying ordeal after being attacked by two pit bull dogs.

"There was nothing but hate and viciousness and the desire to kill. that's all those dogs had right then," said Rhonda Trujillo-Lambert .

From her hospital bed at Mainland Medical Center, the tubes and bandages are testament to just how close Rhonda Trujillo-Lambert came to death.

"And they attacked me, biting and biting," she remembered.

They were two pit bulls from just down the street and only moments earlier they had killed her cat.

"And I was screaming and screaming. and nobody heard me," said Trujillo-Lambert.

You can read the rest of the story on KHOU.com's website here.

ADDED late night, September 13th.......... Two of you have commented so far about the media always doing bad stories on Pit Bulls, and one of you wonders why we haven't done any stories about toy breeds attacking or injuring their owners. Here's why: we, the media, often hear about dog attack stories when animal control contacts us or the victim does. When someone is mauled, they let us know about it. I'm sure that if we were contacted about a toy breed (or a Golden Retriever.. whatever breed) putting another person in the hospital that we'd certainly do a story.

The reporter on today's story, Brad Woodard, also went out of his way to talk to others who had known the dogs, and included a neighbor who said the attacks were out of character and had always been good around his family. Additionally, we (and I mean KHOU-TV and this blog) have also reported on the efforts by people to help the breed, including insight and coverage on the recent Liberty County Pit Bull seizure and the story of Red, the Pit Bull Katrina Survivor, who found a new home months after the disaster, thanks to the work of caring volunteers.

What one sees in a broadcast is colored by one's own personal biases. Someone in our viewing audience will have watched that story and thought, "I can't believe they wasted my time with another animal story." Another will think, "The media are always bashing Pit Bulls," and yet another will think, "Those dogs are so bad no one should be allowed to own one."

I'll finish by sharing this one story with you: a few years ago, 60 minutes aired a piece on President George W. Bush. Channel 11 recieved quite a bit of viewer feedback and surprisingly - or maybe not - both Republicans and Democrats thought it was biased. They saw the same story, but processed it in totally different ways. Go figure.

September 13, 2006

Two women charged after starved animals found

By Scott E. Williams /Galveston County Daily News

LA MARQUE -- Officials announced Tuesday that two women each face eight counts of cruelty to animals after about 20 animals in their kennel were found unfed, in the dark and surrounded by feces.

Although it is part of that office, the county's animal-control office was not the branch of the Galveston County Health District that started the probe of All About Pampered Pets, 10515 FM 1764. It started on Aug. 15, with an environmental-health investigator.

"We had received an odor complaint, and our initial thought was that it could be due to a problem with the septic system," said Kurt Koopmann, spokesman for the health district.

The investigator found that the source of the stench was within All About Pampered Pets, a pet-boarding business where 13 dogs were without food or water in a building with no electricity. That meant no air-conditioning, on a day in which temperatures reached 95 degrees in outdoor, shaded areas

Read the rest of the story on KHOU.com's website here.

September 13, 2006

Two women charged after starved animals found

"We had received an odor complaint, and our initial thought was that it could be due to a problem with the septic system," said Kurt Koopmann, spokesman for the health district.

Read the rest of the story on KHOU.com's website here.

September 13, 2006

Animal activist jailed in Pennsylvania

All links now working in this blog post. Sorry!
Living in Houston, we've all seen more than our share of dogs chained up who live outside. This picture, here, to the left, is the scene of a dog confiscation that temporarily put an animal activist in jail.

Tammy Grimes runs Dogs Deserve Better, a grassroots group trying to bring dogs that have lived their lives outdoors chained up.. inside. Tammy had been called to help a dog that witnesses said couldn't stand up at a home in East Freedom, Pennsylvania. She says the area Humane Society had not responded to calls for help, and felt it her moral duty to take the dog - she calls Doogie - for medical attention. Not long after treatment, she was arrested.

Janice Blue, of KPFT's Go Vegan Texas radio show, emailed "I just spoke with Tammy. She is out of jail but was charged with four misdemeanors, including theft and trespassing. But Doogie is in safe hiding and on meds and getting TLC. She said she thought he just gave up the will to live but is now finding out it might be nice to stay around a while longer."

Tammy's account of what happened is here, as are phone numbers/email addresses if you'd like to get involved.

September 13, 2006

Dogs as bed warmers

"Sleep Pictures" by David Bleiman Ichoika

Do you let your dog up on the bed? How about sleep on the bed with you? My girl Bailey used to sleep at the foot of the bed before her arthritis made jumping too hard for her..

Anyway... check out this picture of a woman snoozing with her big dog. It's actually part of a series by photographer David Bleiman Ichioka (website here) of how people look when they're sleeping (the Chronicle had a story about it earlier this week). He calls them his "Sleep Pictures," and he takes photos of couples, families, children - and yes, their pets - after they hit the sack. They're photographed in their own homes, by a camera set to shoot pictures every 20 to 30 minutes. What he ends up with is a very cool "story" of how you sleep, what you do, and what you look like.

Of course, the dog series cracked me up. This big gray pup was actually quite calm and didn't even steal the sheets or drool on his owner. Of course, my dogs were never this during the night - or they stole my blankets. You can see the entire series of human/dog sleep photos here, and even more samples of the sleep pictures at David's site here.

September 12, 2006

10 stingrays killed since "Crocodile Hunter's" death

SYDNEY, Australia - At least 10 stingrays have been killed since "Crocodile Hunter" Steve Irwin was fatally injured by one of the fish, an official said Tuesday, prompting a spokesman for the late TV star's animal charity to urge people not take revenge on the animals.

Irwin died last week after a stingray barb pierced his chest as he recorded a show off the Great Barrier Reef.

Stingray bodies since have been discovered on two beaches in Queensland state on Australia's eastern coast. Two were discovered Tuesday with their tails lopped off, state fisheries department official Wayne Sumpton said.

September 12, 2006

10 stingrays killed since "Crocodile Hunter's" death

Irwin died last week after a stingray barb pierced his chest as he recorded a show off the Great Barrier Reef.

September 12, 2006

New baby hippo born in my hometown

Oh, so cute! This hippopotamus was born last Thursday at Busch Gardens TAAAM----pah (if you're from Tampa you'll get it) and tips the scales at a whopping 65 pounds. Check out video of the big baby here. Busch still doesn't know the sex of the calf; its mother has not allowed any staff member to approach the baby, but it's already swimming and nursing.

A hippo calf weighs around 60 to 110 pounds. A fully grown hippo weighs upto 3,000 to 8,000 pounds.

You might be able to catch a glimpse of mom Moxie and her calf on the park's webcam here.

September 11, 2006

Lawsuit filed in the St Bernard Parish dog killings

You might remember this one: 33 dogs and cats left behind in by evacuees from St. Bernard Parish in Lousiana during Hurricane Katrina evacuations: shot and left to die - in many cases - slow, painful deaths (previous blog posts here and here). Pasado Safe Haven led the investigation and spearheaded a reward to find the killers. Now, a civil suit is being filed against the people many of the pet owners believe responsble: the deputies of St. Bernard Parish. Read the full story at the Los Angeles Times here.

September 8, 2006

Is deadly danger for your dog lurking in your back yard?

Tag the dog gets ready to
receive a life saving vaccine

Ever heard of Leptospirosis? If not, read on! Our reporter Chau Nguyen filed this report this evening. Watch it here, and keep an eye out for a cameo by her dog, Ally - a big drooly Bulldog!

Even though Tag, a golden retriever, has already had his annual shots, he's back at the vet, this time for a new vaccination that protects him from a dangerous and rare disease.

"Often times it will move to the liver also," said Dr. Danielle Rosser, a local vet.

Dr. Rosser is talking about is leptospirosis.

Dogs get it when coming into contact with rats, namely rat droppings.

In fact there have been at least 10 recent cases in which dogs that have ingested rat droppings have gotten sick, many dying.

Dr. Rosser has treated several of them. "It's definitely something that’s becoming more and more prevalent in the last 10 years I’d say."

Read the rest of the story on the KHOU.com website here.

September 7, 2006

Spay Yo' Mama

Lark Tedesco. Isn't that a cool name? It sounds - to me, at least, like a female private eye's name. It just rolls off the tongue.

However, there is indeed a REAL Lark Tedesco, and she is a friend to animals, and wanted to do something to put a dent in the homeless animal population. One of her friends told me Lark has started something called "Spay Yo' Mama." Here is her email...

".... (Lark is) asking "Angels" to pledge as little as $5 a month to spay the pets of low-income pet owners who cannot afford to have their pets spayed, even at a low cost spay/neuter clinic.

By August 1, 2006, Spay Yo' Mama had a handful of Angels and started scheduling spays at Animal Alliance Spay & Neuter Clinic (of Galveston County.. website here.) In the first month, Spay Yo' Mama had eight dogs and cats spayed, most from low-income households dealing with physical disabilities, multiple dependents, and the like.

....August 2006, eight pets spayed! That was a real stretch. Spay Yo' Mama can only afford to spay one pet a week now, but they are only a few Angels away from being able to increase the number to two a week. Spay Yo' Mama's goal is ten spays a week by August 1, 2007....For more information about Spay Yo' Mama, contact Lark at finnefarm@wildblue.net or 409-927-2624. (Please do not ask her to spay an animal right now. Spay Yo' Mama needs Angels, not animals to spay. Funds currently pledged are already obligated through October.)

Now, before you roll your eyes and say "Yeah! She's pocketing the money!" read on...

To make a contribution, make your check payable to Animal Alliance with "Spay Yo' Mama" on the memo line. Mail it to Lark Tedesco, Spay Yo' Mama, 5731 Casey Beaver Road, Santa Fe, Texas 77517. (Remember, checks should be payable to Animal Alliance, not to Spay Yo' Mama. Checks will be handed over to Animal Alliance Clinic to pay for Spay Yo' Mama spays.) If you provide a mailing address and/or email address, Lark will send you a tax deductible receipt and monthly updates about the animals (and people) you help.

Spread the word. Spay Yo' Mama!"

September 7, 2006

Pretty cool dog quote

Found this on a dog owner's page:

He is my other eyes that can see above the clouds; my other ears that hear above the winds. He is the part of me that can reach out into the sea. He has told me a thousand times over that I am his reason for being; by the way he rests against my leg; by the way he thumps his tail at my smallest smile; by the way he shows his hurt when I leave without taking him. I think it makes him sick with worry when he is not along to care for me. When I am wrong, he is delighted to forgive. When I am angry, he clowns to make me smile. When I am happy, he is joy unabounded. When I am a fool, he ignores it. When I succeed, he brags. Without him, I am only another person. With him, I am all-powerful. He is loyalty itself. He has taught me the meaning of devotion. With him, I know a secret comfort and a private peace. He has brought me understanding where before I was ignorant. His head on my knee can heal my human hurts. His presence by my side is protection against my fears of dark and unknown things. He has promised to wait for me...whenever...wherever - in case I need him.
And I expect I will - as I always have. He is just my dog. ~ Gene Hill

September 7, 2006

Update on Dustin: a neglected Weimaraner is looking much better

I had posted this entry about Dustin the Weimaraner two weeks ago. He was rescued at the beginning of August and looked BAD. Really bad.

Dustin then

Dustin now!

Can you even BELIEVE this is the same dog? Dustin is well on his way to recovery. Click here for full updates and a personal message from this lucky dog.

All in all, this is just a wonderful tribute to all the dog rescuers out there - be they breed rescuers, mutt rescuers or cat rescuers. They deal with the heartache, the "before" pictures, the dogs and cats that smell and have mats in their hair, fleas and heartworms. They deal with the poop and the pee. But, their commitment gives many of us lucky dog owners the opportunity to bring in a new member of the family.

I think I'll go home and snuggle my rescue doggies tonight.

September 7, 2006

Ever think your dog oughta be in pictures?

Well, maybe an advertisement? HEB Grocery is sponsoring the "Top Dog of Texas" contest. The winner gets a $1000 HEB gift card and a year's supply of dog food. HEB's contest webpage says your dog could be included in printed advertising materials. Click here for a link to the registration form. I noticed in the rules says no people in the photos, but props are allowed.

September 7, 2006

House passes ban on horse slaughter

Here is 11 News reporter Brad Woodard's latest story (warning:graphic). You can read previous blog posts about it here and here and see Brad's initial horse slaughter story (warning:also graphic) here.

Remember - this is not the end of this issue. It has only been passed by the House
and must be passed by the Senate as well.

From the Associated Press:

WASHINGTON --The House voted on Thursday to ban the slaughter of horses for meat, a practice that lawmakers thought they already had ended.

Instead of banning it outright, Congress last year yanked the salaries and expenses of federal inspectors. But the Bush administration simply started charging slaughter plants for inspections, and the slaughter has continued.

The House vote was 263-146 to outlaw the slaughter of horses for human consumption.

Opponents of the practice showed photographs of horses with bloodied and lacerated faces, the result of being crammed into trailers that would carry the animals to slaughterhouses.

"It is one of the most inhumane, brutal, shady practices going on in the U.S. today," said Rep. John Sweeney, R-N.Y., a sponsor of the ban.

Sweeney argued that the slaughter of horses is different from the slaughter of cattle and chickens because horses are American icons.

They're as close to human as any animal you can get, said Rep. John Spratt, D-S.C.

The administration contended a ban would do more harm than good
for horses.

"We have serious concerns that the welfare of these horses would be negatively impacted by a ban on slaughter," Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns said in a letter released Thursday.

Defenders of horse slaughter said it offers a cheap and humane way to end a horse's life when the animal no longer is useful. They say many owners cannot afford to care for an unproductive horse. "These unwanted horses are often sick, unfit or problem animals," said Rep. Collin Peterson, D-Minn. "Many of them are already living in pain or discomfort, and tens of thousands more could be neglected, starved or abandoned if their owners no longer have processing available as an end-of-life option."

American horse meat is sold mostly for people to eat in Europe and Asia; some goes to U.S. zoos.

If the slaughter ended in the U.S., plants in Canada and Mexico probably would take over some of the business, supporters say.

Unlike other countries, U.S. law requires that horses and other livestock be unable to feel pain before they are killed.

The chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, GOP Rep. Bob Goodlatte of Virginia, said that from some horses, "these facilities provide a humane alternative to additional suffering or possible dangerous situations."

Horse slaughter is a tiny business in the United States when compared with the beef, poultry and pork processing industries. Horses are slaughtered at three foreign-owned plants -- two in Texas and one in Illinois. In all, about 88,000 horses, mules and other equines were slaughtered last year, according to the Agriculture Department.

Opponents of horse slaughter include oil tycoon T. Boone Pickens, country singer Willie Nelson and actress Bo Derek, who watched Thursday's debate from the House gallery. Supporters include former Dallas Cowboys tight end Jay Novacek, who is now a rancher.

Opponents also include the National Thoroughbred Racing Association and the Humane Society of the United States. Proponents include the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Association of Equine Practitioners, the biggest horse doctors' group.

The bill's future is uncertain. The Senate has not acted on a similar bill, and Congress intends to finish its current session by the end of the month.

September 6, 2006

Deputy changes "death row dogs" into crime fighting canines

Jack and Egan /
Courtesy Privilegedpets.com

There is some extraordinary work being done with dogs in Katy . You might even call Jack Richards the "Katy Dog Whisperer."

Richards of Privileged Pets, LLC has been working with dogs for more than 11 years and is changing the lives of dogs and their owners every day.

"I love my work and what I get to do every day. I train dogs but I also learn so much from them at the same time,” Richards said.

Jack often trains rescued dogs that might be euthanized, turning their noses into crime fighting weapons. You can read more at the Katy Times online here.

September 6, 2006

Dog wash to help beaten dog

I know this is tough to read; you can click on the picture to make the brochure larger and read the whole story, but this is the version in a nutshell:

According to his owner, this Boston Terrier, Ace, was playing with the neighbor's dog August 23rd when the neighbor attacked him with a metal pipe. It happened in front of the owner's pregnant wife. He was rushed to the vet, where they patched the pup up. His owners called police, but the neighbor said he'd felt "threatened." The dog owners were told they could only pursue this case in civil court.

In the meantime, Ace's vet bills are growing. Friends are throwing a dog wash party to try to help with the cost. The day is September 9th at 3730 Cartwright Rd (map here) Aaal's Parking Lot, in Missouri City, from 8 in the morning until one in the afternoon. Small doggies, 30 lbs and under are $5, big doggies are $10. They're inviting anyone to stop by - pets or not - and I'm willing to bet by the end of the day everyone will be taking baths!

For more information email Brandi Jo at brandijo@sbcglobal.net or Brynn at brynnz@capbarbell.com.

September 6, 2006

BARC's Pet of the Week

Is up! Take a look at this week's adoptable animal!

September 6, 2006

The Pits are going up for auction..

Turns out the owner of the seized Pit Bull pups from Liberty County did not post bond. That means they're going up for auction. I won't even discuss the possible consequences. Many of you have posted about it already.

From the Houston Humane Society:
"In the matter of the pit bull puppies from Liberty County, defendant Julie Laban did not post the $10,000 bond yesterday which would have entitled her to an appeal. She now no longer has a chance at regaining custody of the puppies, which are currently being cared for at the Houston Humane Society. The HHS and Liberty County officials are working together to come up with the best solution for the future of the puppies.

We'll give you more info as soon as we hear anything from (Liberty Assistant County Attorney) Mark Beausoleil or Liberty County."

September 5, 2006

American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act supporters rally in D.C

Supporters of the American Horse
Slaughter Prevention Act rallied
in the streets of the nation's
capital Tuesday.

Watch today's story by Brad Woodard

It is only days away from a congressional showdown over what some call America's dirty little secret: the slaughtering of horses for human consumption.

Texas will be a major part of the debate because two of the nation's three slaughter houses operate in the state.

The 11 News report last week about what goes on in one Texas slaughter house drew international response from people appalled at the practice.

It is a cherished American icon, and yet it's ending up on the dinner tables of Europe. The meat is considered a delicacy in Europe and Asia.

Nearly 100,000 horses are slaughtered and sent overseas each year -- thanks, in part, to places like the Dallas Crown slaughter plant in Kaufman, Texas.

During a recent visit to the Belgian-owned plant, 11 News showed how horses are slaughtered each week by having a steel bolt driven into their brains.

Read more about this story on KHOU.com's website here.

September 4, 2006

Save the Horses Rally

I saw this in the comments section of the post I blogged about our reporter, Brad Woodard, and his heart-wrenching story on horse slaughter:

Save the Horses Rally @ Bear Creek Park Pavillion (follow signs) on Clay Road, Tuesday, September 5, 2006 at 6:30pm. Come out and show your support for Congressional Bill HR 502 which will amend the Horse Protection Act to protect horses from slaughter and shipment to Europe and Japan for human consumption. Guest speakers will be present.

That's all the info there, but it was posted by Kathy Austin, who left an email of jkaustin02@gmail.com.

September 4, 2006

The Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin, dies in Stingray accident

I was stunned when I heard about this: the "Crocodile Hunter" has died. Steve Irwin was filming an underwater documentary on the Great Barrier Reef in far north Queensland, Australia. He was killed by a stingray barb to his heart while fiming a new television series.

I'm still shocked. Wildlife documentary maker Ben Cropp said the way Irwin died was "a one-in-a-million thing." Even if you'd heard "Crikey!" one too many times, there's no denying the impact Irwin had on the animal world and his home country of Australia.

Australia's National 9 News has full coverage with video here.

September 4, 2006

Help find missing Maggie!

Maggie has been stolen! Can you help find her? Here's the information I have:

On 31 Aug at approx 9:30 am, my 65-year-old widowed mother was traveling through the Houston area (Brookshire) and stopped for gas at a CITGO Station, I-10, exit 732. While paying for her gas someone stole her 6-month-old rottweiler puppy from her car. The person may have been caught on tape, we are currently waiting their call back. My mother is devastated. It is the only thing she has; even the car she was driving was not hers. I am begging for anyone’s help. All the animal shelters and hospitals have been contacted. I will offer an award, buy them a puppy, give them first pick of Maggie’s first litter, anything. No charges or questions asked. We just desperately want Maggie back. My mother is racked with guilt for going to the gas station. She had the car locked but the window was cracked enough someone reached in and took her puppy! Please help.

When she was taken she was wearing a red collor with white paw prints. She had a AKC tag on (black w/ silver writing) and a green rabies tag (FL) on. We appreciate any help. My mother (in the picture) lost her dog earlier this year and was so depressed. I bought her Maggie for Mother's Day and she is so attached. I can't begin to explain how much she means to my mom. She has had so much loss in her life already.

Thank you
Carianne Melnick
530-329-1204

September 1, 2006

Is Houston trying to ban horse stables?

This was forwarded to me.. looks like it's from a mailing list from the Greater Houston Horce Council. If you're with the Council, could you email me or leave a comment on this post to fill us in? Here it is:

Subject: GHHC- HOUSTON CITY HALL PLAN IN THE WORKS TO BAN HORSES AND STABLES!
Date: Fri, 1 Sep 2006 17:10:26 EDT

Texas Horse Talk has learned from highly placed sources inside Houston City Hall that a plan described as "pretty far along" is in the works to ban horses and stables throughout the city limits of the nation's fourth largest community. We were told that developers want horses and their stables removed from near property they own, and proposed developments on property they want to own. A prime target, we were told, is the beautifully wooded Acres Homes section of the city in North Houston. The large neighborhood is near the posh Inwood Forest area. Other areas scattered throughout the city where horse stables are located are targeted as well. Such "gentrification" has radically changed parts of Houston including the Fourth Ward and Bellaire, where longtime residents lost their homes. Acres Homes is largely populated by minorities. In their place, our source said, the developers would build half million dollar mansions. The ban will threaten unincorporated areas outside the city limits as well if they are subject to annexation.

September 1, 2006

11 News reports on the Texas horse slaughter industry

11 News reporter Brad Woodard has worked hard to get this story on air... It's one I'm sure many Texas horsemen and women didn't know about.

They say you don't ever want to know how sausage is made. This is about horsemeat - and that it's made in Texas and shipped overseas to countries that eat it.. Undercover video of horses being killed by a bolt to their brain was stomach turning - and I had turned my head way when we aired the story last night on 11 News at 10.. I just heard it the pnuematic WHOOSH of the "bolt gun" and the THUD when the horses fell.

Here is the video. There is some pretty graphic footage in it. Be warned.

Here are a couple links if you want to get involved:

** http://www.endhorseslaughtering.com/

** HSUS: End the slaughter of America's horses

** American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act

** ASPCA: Urge your representative to end horse slaughter