Jedi is a seven-month old, neutered male, Domestic Shorthair kitten. His Animal ID# is: A246918.

Jaxon is a two-year old, neutered male, Lilac Point colored Domestic Shorthair cat. He is declawed. His Animal ID# is A246358.

Spike is two-month old, neutered male, Labrador Retriever puppy. His Animal ID# is A245080.

And, last but certainly not least is Molly! She is a two-month old, spayed female Labrador Retriever puppy. Her Animal ID# is A245073.

The adoption fees are $80 for dogs and $70 cats. They are all spayed or neutered, fully vaccinated, de-wormed, dogs are tested for canine heartworm disease and cats are tested for feline leukemia. All are reviewed by a vet.

This weekends Friday's Friends came from Harris County Public Health & Environmental Services and are just a few of the animals up for adoption this weekend at the Saving Animals Across Borders Houston Northwest Mall Pet Adoption Center at Northwest Mall, Northwest Freeway (Hwy 290) at 18th Street (Please Use Entrance D). The Pet Adoption Center is open Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Sunday from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 PM. Call (713) 680-0282 or click here for more information.

For more information on Harris County Public Health & Environmental Services, go to www.countypets.com.

Click to watch the video.

The ordinance intends to reduce the number of animals in shelters and eventually eliminate the thousands of euthanizations conducted in Los Angeles' animal shelters every year, which costs the city about $2 million a year.

Villaraigosa said, "Animal experts agree spay and neutering is the best long-term solution for the problem of pet overpopulation. This is not only the best thing to do, it is the right thing to do."

Councilman Tony Cardenas added, "We will, sooner rather than later, become a no-kill city and this is the greatest step in that direction."

Some animals are exempt from the ordinance including animals that have competed in shows or competitions, guide dogs, animals used by police agencies and those belonging to professional breeders.

Owners who do not comply with the law will receive information on subsidized sterilization services. They have 60 days to spay or neuter their pet, and if they fail to comply, they could be fined $100 and ordered to serve eight hours of community service. A third offense could result in a $500 fine or 40 hours of community service.

Bob Barker, a supporter of the law, happily stated, "The next time that you hear me say, 'Help control the pet population, have your pet spayed or neutered,' I can add, 'It's the law in Los Angeles.'"

Source: News for cats and dogs - Los Angeles Passes Pet Sterilization Law

Each dog is specially trained by THSD to help its partner live more independently. Hearing Dogs alert their deaf partners to important sounds such as the oven timer, knock at the door, telephone/T.D.D., baby's cry and smoke alarm.

"Trooper wakes me up in the morning when the alarm goes off," says Carolyn Wilson about her Hearing Dog, an alert Boston Terrier mix who was once abandoned in an animal shelter. "He tells me when the water is ready to make tea and when it"s time to take the cookies out of the oven. He reminds me when I forget to buckle my seat belt or forget to take my keys out of the ignition."

Wilson, a graduate of the University of Texas School of Law never practiced in a courtroom because at the time none of the courtrooms were equipped with listening devices for the deaf. She now serves on the City of Austin Community Emergency Response Teams Advisory Board. Trooper attends every meeting at her side. "He keeps me informed about the sounds in our environment. He helps me stay safe," she says.

Service Dogs pick up dropped objects, open and close doors, nudge paralyzed arms and legs into position, push elevator buttons and perform other customized tasks. Over THSD's twenty years, Service Dogs have done everything to pick up dropped keys and books to literally saving their partners' lives. One Service Dog named "Blue" searched a remote park for nearly an hour and brought back help when his partner's wheelchairs had turned over during a hike down a hill. Another named "Honor" pressed a special emergency button connected to local emergency services when her partner was knocked unconscious by a collapsing porch swing.

THSD adopts every dog in its program from an animal shelter or rescue organization. "We are saving dogs as well as helping people," says THSD Founder Sheri Soltes. "There are marvelous dogs in shelters. With our positive training methods, we turn strays into stars."

Best of all, THSD provides the dogs and training completely free of charge. Donations and special events, such as the annual Mighty Texas Dog Walk, pay for the cost of training. "We carefully match recipients with a Hearing or Service Dog that fits their needs, lifestyle and preference," explains Soltes. "They attend a five day class at our training center in Dripping Springs. Then we move the dog into their home and conduct 13 weeks of personalized training with them in their home and community."

Graduates are permitted by law to bring their dogs with them to public places. Training includes lots of practice in stores and restaurants. In twenty years, THSD has never had a complaint about a Hearing or Service Dog's behavior in public.

It is very easy to apply to THSD for a Hearing or Service Dog. Everything you need is on their website. Just click on "Apply for a Dog" at the top of the home page. You can even fill out the main part of the application and submit it online. Or call (512) 891-9090 to receive a mailed application.

Photo: Service Dog team David DiTraglia and Clifford

The officer was conducting a traffic stop in the 13000 block of Townwood about 1:30 pm when a resident reported that the dogfight was taking place just down the block. The officer investigated the report and found a crowd gathered in a driveway cheering on as several dogs on chains were fighting. Five men were arrested by police and seven dogs were confiscated by the Houston Humane Society. Those arrested face animal cruelty charges.

Click here to watch the video.

"All 20 of our police dogs — German and Belgian shepherds — are currently being trained to walk in these shoes," Andre Hartwich said. "I'm not sure they like it, but they'll have to get used to it."

The unusual footwear is not a fashion statement, Hartwich said, but rather a necessity due to the high rate of paw injuries on duty. Especially in the city's historical old town — famous for both its pubs and drunken revelers — the dogs often step into broken beer bottles.

"Even the street-cleaning doesn't manage to remove all the glass pieces from between the streets' cobble stones," Hartwich said, adding that the dogs frequently get injured by little pieces sticking deep in their paws.

The dogs will start wearing the shoes this spring but only during operations that demand special foot protection. The shoes comes in sizes small, medium and large and were ordered in blue to match the officers uniforms, Hartwich said.

"Now we just have to teach the dogs how to tie their shoes," he joked.

Source: Associated Press

This nine-year-old basset hound and blue heeler mix went missing for nearly 2 1/2 weeks after a tornado damaged the Harris' home and Pongo's dog house in early February.

When the tornado hit the Arkansas house, Katresa Harris and her two children were inside the house with their other two dogs. But Pongo was outside, and he ran away during the storm when the tornado broke open the fence.

The family put up posters of Pongo and put them all over the city. They searched animal shelters and everywhere else to find their missing dog. Since they couldn't live inside their house because of the extensive damage, they drove by everyday to check to see if he was there and to put out food and water for Pongo just in case he came by.

But this last Friday, Harris went back to the house to check to see if Pongo was there, and the dog poked his head out of the dog house and ran to his owners. The Harris family took Pongo to the vet to make sure he was okay. Besides being dirty and hungry, Pongo was doing well after being missing for more than 2 weeks.

Click here News for cats and dogs - Dog Reunited With Family After He Went Missing During Tornado for the rest of the story.

Researchers analyzed 4,435 participants, 30-75 years of age, from the second National Health and Nutrition Examination Study. All participants were free of cardiovascular disease at the start of the study. Researchers used the Cox proportional hazards analysis during 20 years of follow-up to determine relative risk of death from all causes, heart attack and cardiovascular diseases, including stroke.

Previous or current cat owners represented 55 percent (2,435) of the study participants. Researchers adjusted results for differences in age, gender, ethnicity/race, systolic blood pressure, cigarette smoking, diabetes, cholesterol levels and body mass index. They observed a 40 percent higher relative risk of death due to heart attack in participants who had never owned a cat as a pet compared to those who had previously or currently owned a cat.

Researchers also found a 30 percent higher relative risk of increased risk for death due to cardiovascular diseases among participants without cats. Researchers concluded, "cats as pets may represent a novel strategy for reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases in high-risk individuals."

Researchers found no such correlation in those with a pet dog.

Source: News for cats and dogs - Cat Owners May Be Less Likely to Suffer Cardiovascular Disease

They are representative of what constitutes a bad day for most people. But in this case, they aren't people, but cats that were in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Comic cats

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

MALE CATS ONLY! Appointment for surgery required. No food after 10:00 pm the night before surgery. Cats must arrive at the clinic in a carrier or a pillowcase. If your cat already has its rabies vaccination, you must bring the rabies certificate.

SNAP Mobile Clinic at Harris County PHES Veterinary Public Health, 612 Canino, Houston, TX. Call 281.999.8531 to make an appointment. Please leave a message if there is no answer.

Spay-Neuter Assistance Program, 1603 Shepherd Drive, Houston, TX 77007. Call 713.863.0010 or send an email to appointments@snapus.org to schedule an appointment.

CALL TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!! Only a few appointments are still available.

"No-Birth Is The First Step To No-Kill"

Funded by Chris & Don Sanders

Ashley is a 1.5 year old spayed female Domestic Shorthair cat. She is declawed in the front. Her Animal ID# is: A246892.

Montana is a three-month old, spayed female Domestic Shorthair Orange Tabby kitten. She has been living in foster care and is ready for adoption. Her Mom says Montana likes to sleep on her shoulder. Montana's Animal ID# is A241813.

Jeffrey is two-month old, neutered male Border Collie. His Animal ID# is A246629.

And, last but certainly not least is Roger! He is a 1.5 year old neutered male Rat Terrier. His Animal ID# is A245830.

The adoption fees are $80 for dogs and $70 cats. They are all spayed or neutered, fully vaccinated, de-wormed, dogs are tested for canine heartworm disease and cats are tested for feline leukemia. All are reviewed by a vet.

This weekends Friday's Friends came from Harris County Public Health & Environmental Services and are just a few of the animals up for adoption this weekend at the Saving Animals Across Borders Houston Northwest Mall Pet Adoption Center at Northwest Mall, Northwest Freeway (Hwy 290) at 18th Street (Please Use Entrance D). The Pet Adoption Center is open Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Sunday from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 PM. Call (713) 680-0282 or click here for more information Saving Animals Across Borders.

For more information on Harris County Public Health & Environmental Services, click here countypets.com.

On Thursday, February 13th, the line stretched out the door of the Houston Humane Society as cat owners lined up for the Tomcat 500. HHS neutered 488 male cats in just one day! That translates to literally millions of lives saved. Thank HHS!

Go to Houston Humane Society for more information.

After an 11-month investigation into an alleged national dogfighting ring, the Pima County Sheriff's Department and The Humane Society of the United States raided four properties. Pima County Animal Care Center seized about 150 dogs, some bearing scars consistent with animal fighting. The Humane Society of Southern Arizona helped in the execution of the raid. Nine people were detained; three of the nine were arrested. Among the nine are two men alleged to be nationally recognized figures in the multi-million dollar world of criminal dogfighting.

"We applaud the Pima County Sheriff's Department for taking on this alleged dogfighting ring," said John Goodwin, manager of animal fighting issues for The HSUS. "People who profit from the suffering of animals should pay a heavy price for their crimes."

"Dogfighting is a terribly inhumane and damaging activity that has no place in our community," said Dawn Henke, public information officer for the Pima County Sheriff's Department.

One of the properties housed what appeared to be a breeding kennel and had a trailer containing 50 guns. Also seized at the properties were tools commonly used in hard-core dogfighting operations. These include treadmills specifically modified to exercise the dogs to exhaustion, injectable substances and break sticks used to pry apart the jaws of dogs locked in battle.

"Since the Michael Vick case, the number of dogfighting busts has tripled nationwide," said Goodwin. "Here in Arizona, law enforcement agencies are taking a bite out of these cruel and degrading spectacles."

Here are some links to the latest from KOLD-TV (CBS) in Tucson, Arizona:

For the latest from the CBS affiliate in Tucson

Tucson Area Raids Target Dog Fighting Ring

Dogfight Suspect Speaks

The Humane Society Legislative Fund encourages animal advocates to contact candidates with their questions about animal welfare and provides a snapshot of each candidate's animal welfare record.

The Humane Society Legislative Fund (HSLF) is a social welfare organization incorporated under section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code. HSLF works to pass animal protection laws at the state and federal level, to educate the public about animal protection issues, and to support humane candidates for office. HSLF was formed in 2004 as a separate lobbying affiliate of The Humane Society of the United States.

Bring your altered, healthy bunny with you and find a friend, or just hang out and play on Saturday and Sunday, February 23rd and 24th between 11 am - 8 pm in the adoption lobby!!

The Houston SPCA BUN-ANZA will feature bunny education services, goodie bags for the first 10 adopters, rabbit and small mammal adoptions, free nail trims, prizes and snacks for your honey bunny.

WHERE: Houston SPCA, 900 Portway Drive, Houston, TX 77024

WHEN: Saturday and Sunday, February 23rd and 24th

TIME: 11 am - 8 pm

For more information call 713.869.SPCA ext 121 or click here.

The cat was nowhere to be found and Schulte had given up hope that she was never going to get her cat back.

But two weeks ago, Schulte received a call from someone in Pueblo, Colorado informing her that Miko was safe and sound.

"I was like, 'Great I'll pick her up!"' Schulte said. "I figured she was here at the shelter but they said, 'We're in Pueblo, Colorado,' and I said, 'How on earth did she get to Pueblo, Colorado?' and they said 'I don't know, where are you?' I said, 'We're in Albuquerque."'

Employees at the Pueblo shelter think that Miko got scared and tried to keep warm by hiding in a tractor-trailer and rode it up Interstate 25 to Colorado. When employees at the Pueblo animal shelter found Miko, they scanned her microchip and traced her back to Schulte. Donna Straub, head of Pueblo Animal Services, drove Miko to Santa Fe on Sunday. Rick DeReyes of Albuquerque's Animal Welfare picked her up there and drove her to Albuquerque.

And now Miko is back home after her long road trip.

Source: News for cats and dogs - Cat Reunited With Family After Wandering Over 200 Miles Away

Matsu said Leeloo and her other dog stayed in her gated kitchen during the day. The other dog was still there when she got home, but Leeloo was gone.

Matsu said the poodle couldn't possibly have gotten out of the locked gate on her own.

Read more.

Officials said it was the largest beef recall in the United States, surpassing a 1999 ban of 35 million pounds of ready-to-eat meats. The recall will affect beef products dating to Feb. 1, 2006, that came from Chino-based Westland/Hallmark Meat Co., the federal agency said. Secretary of Agriculture Ed Schafer said his department has evidence that Westland did not routinely contact its veterinarian when cattle became non-ambulatory after passing inspection, violating health regulations.

Federal officials suspended operations at Westland/Hallmark after an undercover Humane Society of the United States investigation showed crippled and sick animals being shoved with forklifts. Two former employees were charged Friday. Five felony counts of animal cruelty and three misdemeanors were filed against a pen manager. Three misdemeanor counts - illegal movement of a non-ambulatory animal - were filed against an employee who worked under that manager. Both were fired.

Authorities said the video showed workers kicking, shocking and otherwise abusing "downer" animals that were apparently too sick or injured to walk into the slaughterhouse. Some animals had water forced down their throats, San Bernardino County prosecutor Michael Ramos said. No charges have been filed against Westland, but an investigation by federal authorities continues.

Click here for the full story.

Statement by Secretary of Agriculture Ed Schafer regarding Hallmark/Westland Meat Packing Company two year product recall.

Click here for the Animal Attraction archives to read the original story and watch the investigation video posted on February 7, 2008.

Take action today by sending an email to the USDA. Despite claims that downers were being eliminated from the food supply, downed animals may be falling through the cracks as a result of poor oversight, anemic enforcement, and a loophole created by inconsistent agency regulations. The result is a losing proposition for animals who are beaten, kicked, and dragged to their death and consumers who unknowingly consume the meat from sick and injured animals. Demand that the USDA eliminate this dangerous loophole and immediately put in place a "bright line" ban on all downers.

Meet some of the dogs that will be at Highland Village this weekend! The animals will only be there for one more week before they have to go back to BARC.

If you are interested simply go to their location at 4030 Westheimer. They are open Friday from noon to 6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Right now, there are thousands of healthy, behaviorally sound pets of all breeds, colors and sizes waiting for homes in local animal shelters. You can find your new true love today!

The Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Citizens for Animal Protection, HCPHES Veterinary Public Health, Houston Humane Society and the Houston Department of Health and Human Services - Bureau of Animal Regulation and Care encourage Houstonians to "Have a Heart for Homeless Animals" Thursday, February 14th through Monday, February 18th. Each shelter will be promoting the shelter adoption option and offering half price or 2 for 1 pet adoptions to approved adopters. Adoption policies and costs vary by shelter and specific shelter promotions can be found at each web site.

Visit a "Have a Heart" shelter and discover true love!

Radar, Rex, Razer, and Reba are two-month old, Domestic Shorthair kittens. They are all spayed or neutered. Their Animal ID#'s are: A246575, A246576, A246577 and A246579.

Murphy is a two-month old, neutered male, Domestic Shorthair kitten. His Animal ID# is A246493.

Wink is two-year old, neutered male Chihuahua. His Animal ID# is A246429.

And, last but certainly not least is Jenny! She is a two-month old spayed female Border Collie. Her Animal ID# is A246366.

The adoption fees are $80 for dogs and $70 cats. They are all spayed or neutered, fully vaccinated, de-wormed, dogs are tested for canine heartworm disease and cats are tested for feline leukemia. All are reviewed by a vet.

This weekends Friday's Friends came from Harris County Public Health & Environmental Services and are just a few of the animals up for adoption this weekend at the Saving Animals Across Borders Houston Northwest Mall Pet Adoption Center at Northwest Mall, Northwest Freeway (Hwy 290) at 18th Street (Please Use Entrance D). The Pet Adoption Center is open Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Sunday from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 PM. Call (713) 680-0282 or click here for more information Saving Animals Across Borders.

For more information on Harris County Public Health & Environmental Services, click here countypets.com.

Dennis decided to name him Nubbs. Dennis wrote to his mother back in the U.S. of how he found out that Nubbs' ears were purposely cut off by an Iraqi to make him look more tough and more alert. Nubbs was supposed to have been a fighting dog.

During the four months they knew each other. Nubbs and Dennis became close. Dennis shared his frustration and distress with his mother whenever Nubbs was hurt and abused like when he had been stabbed with a screwdriver.

Dennis nursed Nubbs back to health, and the two even slept together to stay warm in the frigid temperatures.

All was well except when one day, Dennis was ordered to move his squadron 70 miles away and had to leave Nubbs.

But two days later after Dennis had moved, Nubbs came along and gave Dennis the surprise of a lifetime. The dog had walked 70 miles in the desert in 18 degree temperatures while he was still recovering from his wound to find Dennis.

But then someone reported that Dennis had a dog, and Dennis was told that he had four days to get rid of the dog or Nubbs would be shot.

Dennis would not abandon Nubbs after all that they had been through and he wanted to bring the dog to safety. He wrote to his mom, "Nubbs was going to America, this dog had been through a lifetime of fighting war, abuse, and had tracked our team over 70 miles of harsh desert (and) was going to live the good life."

An email campaign was started by Dennis and within two days, three thousand dollars was raised to bring Nubbs home. Nubbs was transported to the U.S. and a family will take care of him until he and Dennis can be reunited again. Dennis' mother said, "I almost feel like Brian is his guardian angel and maybe he is Brian's guardian angel."

Click here, News for cats and dogs - Dog Walks 70 Miles Through Desert To Find Marine, for a picture of Nubbs and Major Dennis.

From purebreds to mutts, show dogs to stunt dogs, Pugs to Great Danes and agility dogs to dogs who dance the Tango - CBS wants all types of talented canines. The winning team will walk away with the bragging rights and title of "America's Top Dog" and a significant cash prize!

Apply to be a contestant on America's Top Dog by clicking here.

METRO officer John Wiggins, and his partner Vigo, placed first in the Patrol competition and officer Charles Wheeler, and his dog Rock, placed second.

Patrol dogs are used to find criminal suspects. They search buildings and open areas, track suspects who have fled from a crime scene, and locate any evidence that a suspect leaves behind. Using their keen sense of smell, patrol dogs can search faster and more accurately than officers can alone.

"Our unit was one of 75 K-9 teams from Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana that attended this seminar," said Sgt. Tim McClelland. "So, it's great to come home with top honors."

METRO's K-9 program was established in 1998 with a single narcotics canine. Since then, the unit has grown to eight K-9 teams. These teams have provided assistance at many major events and continue to help agencies across Houston with narcotics detection, explosive detection and criminal apprehension.

All METRO police K-9 teams have successfully completed certifications in obedience, patrol and respective narcotics and explosives detection.

Source: ridemetro.org

This new 10,000 sq. foot building is equipped with special kitty condos, dog kennels, an operating room, and visitation rooms to view a pet and a drive thru to drop off any animals for adoption. Diamond Commercial Construction is the construction company that built this structure following the special design by Edward & Associates Architects. The cost for this building was $1.4 million dollars. The Montgomery County Humane Society will be housed in this building managing the day to day operations regarding pets up for adoption that include dogs, puppies, cats and kittens. The City of Conroe and the Montgomery County Humane Society work in concert with each other to ensure the upkeep for this brand new structure that will house pets up for adoption.

The City of Conroe is proud to offer this facility for the citizens of Conroe, Texas and surrounding areas of Montgomery County.

Source: http://cityofconroe.org

More fun than hanging out at the dog park! Dogs on leash and their owners are invited to join other nature and canine lovers for refreshments and music in the meadow, weather permitting.

WHERE: Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, 4501 Woodway Drive, Houston, TX 77024-7708

WHEN: Saturday, March 1 from 3 to 5 pm - Join the Pack at the Bow-Wow Bash

Your host in March will be Oliver, a friendly Golden Retriever, who will be there to greet everyone with a complimentary sniff. Dog owners can enjoy poochie punch and receive a doggie bag with a treat and bottled water for their favorite canine. Lawn chairs and blankets allowed.

Admission: Members $8, non-members $10. Limited space available. Please click here to RSVP.

For more information on Party Animals, click here.

The Houston SPCA hosted a Farm Animal Adoption Weekend on Saturday, February 9 and Sunday, February 10. They reported yesterday that the event was a success! They adopted 11 horses, 6 ducks, 3 fowl, and two goats into loving new homes. They also received farm animal adoption applications from many new adopters that were unable to attend the event but will be visiting the shelter searching for a forever farm animal friend in the coming weeks.

There are still a number of farm animals available for adoption at the Houston SPCA. For more information, click here.

Baying and barking to his heart's delight, Uno lived up every bit to his name Tuesday night, becoming the first of his breed to win best in show at the nation's biggest canine competition.

The only breed consistently among the nation's most popular dogs for nearly 100 years, a beagle had never won in the 100 times the Westminster Kennel Club had chosen a winner. That changed when judge J. Donald Jones pointed to this nearly 3-year-old package of personality.

"He's perfect, he was a 10," Jones said. "He does cuteness well."

Click here, for the complete story.

The Great Backyard Bird Count is an annual four-day event that engages bird watchers of all ages in counting birds to create a real-time snapshot of where the birds are across the continent.

Anyone can participate, from beginning bird watchers to experts. It takes as little as 15 minutes. It's free, fun, and easy - and it helps the birds. Participants count birds anywhere for as little or as long as they wish during the four-day period. They tally the highest number of birds of each species seen together at any one time. To report their counts, they fill out an online checklist.

As the count progresses, anyone with Internet access can explore what is being reported from their own towns or anywhere in the United States and Canada. They can also see how this year's numbers compare with those from previous years. Participants may also send in photographs of the birds they see.

In 2007, participants reported a record-breaking 11 million birds of 616 species. They submitted more than 80,000 checklists, an all-time record for the ten years of the count.

Click here, to get a checklist of birds that live in your zip code, state or province.

Click here, for more information on the Great Backyard Bird Count.

Take home a puppy!

Call these wonderful BARC stars for more info:
Julie Keeton
(713) 922-4748

Elizabeth Medwick
(713) 303-6549

He barked and bayed. He nipped at a newly printed sign. He tried to grab his leash. He took a flying leap at a piece of filet mignon.

"Snoopy would be proud," handler Aaron Wilkerson said Monday. "He was being his merry little hound self."

He also did something out of character: He became the first beagle to win the hound group at the Westminster Kennel Club show since 1939 -- that's 483 years, in dog years.

America's top dog competition has presented best in show 100 times and a beagle has never won. Uno's victory assured him a place in the final seven Tuesday night.

Beagles are always among the most popular dogs in the country, yet Wilkerson was at a loss to explain why they’ve never done better here.

"I can't really say," he said. "All of them are just good."

Getting ready for the show

A repeat standard poodle, a prize-winning Sealyham terrier and an Australian shepherd also locked up spots in the final ring. A perfectly trimmed toy poodle and a top Akita hoped to win their groups Tuesday.

They were among the 2,627 entries at this year’s show, coming in 169 breeds and varieties. Included were four newly sanctioned types
• the Tibetan mastiff, Beauceron, Swedish vallhund and Plott.

Also in the building: Patty Hearst and "How to Look Good Naked" reality show host Carson Kressley.

Far, far removed from the days when her image as a machine gun-toting revolutionary captivated a nation, Patricia Hearst Shaw was in more genteel surroundings. She was tending to Diva, petting her French bulldog's soft head on dogdom's biggest day.

"When people find out it's me, it's like it doesn't make sense," Shaw said. "The Frenchie people know me because I've been around. But others, they seemed surprised."

Shaw has been working with dogs for three years, and her first trip to Westminster was well worth it. She came away with a red ribbon for Best of Opposite Sex—a male won the breed, and hers was judged the top female.

"It's overwhelming," she said.

Kressley, who formerly starred on "Queer Eye For The Straight Guy," had his hair "zhooshed" just like the dogs. He found himself looking at more than the pooches. "I was mesmerized by the handlers' outfits," he said. "And they have to wear sensible shoes."

While Uno aimed at best in show, the precocious package of personality certainly deserved one title: noisiest in show.

"Ah-rooo!" his howls echoed all over the arena. It didn't take much to get Uno going, either. A click of a spectator's pen, a wave of the judge's hand, any effort by Wilkerson to hush him. "Ah-rooo!"

Though the Disney movie "Underdog" was a big winner last year, a beagle is forever a long shot at the Garden.

Tri-colored and nearly 3, with pleading, golden-brown eyes and a most playful nature, Uno wanted to break out of the Westminster doghouse. His official name is K-Run’s Park Me in First, and he topped 12 other entries in the 15-inch beagle category.

Beagles also come in the 13-inch variety, though both types can come from the same litter.
Uno already has won 32 best in show titles and finished 2007 as the sixth-ranked show dog in the nation.

He retreated to the safety of his crate after winning best of breed, complete with his favorite stuffed frog toy and a fluffy pillow sporting a Hollywood star.

Judge Ralph Lemcke picked Uno over 25 others in the hound group, praising his "soft expression" and the neat "brush on his tail."

In December, Uno won the hound group at the big AKC/Eukanuba show in Long Beach, Calif. The winner of that event, a Sealyham called Charmin, won the terrier group.
Charmin is "squeezably, wonderfully soft," co-owner and handler Margery Good said. He has a dark gray patch over his left eye and a tremendous pedigree—his brother is the top-winning dog in Canada.

A standard poodle with white pompoms on his feet and tail won the nonsporting group for the second straight year. Merci was a clear pick for judge Michael Manning.

"Beautiful is beautiful," he said. "His personality went on for miles."

Deuce, a 4-year-old Australian shepherd, won the herding group. She took a year off to have nine puppies and returned to the show ring last month.

Judge Stanley Saltzman said Deuce never missed a step, complimenting how she had "a lot of reach and drive in her stride."

U.S. Representative Tom Lantos' passion for advancing humane values has left a rich legacy, and The Humane Society of the United States mourns his passing today. As a founder and co-chair of the Congressional Friends of Animals Caucus and leader on many bills, Congressman Lantos was in the forefront of efforts to create greater public awareness and legislative action on a wide range of animal welfare issues.

Congressman Lantos was constant and steadfast in his leadership in championing the needs of pets such as his beloved dog Gigi and other animals in disaster planning. He worked to stop cruel seal hunts, call attention to the killing of dogs in foreign countries, and address animal fighting, horse slaughter, puppy mills, antifreeze safety, canned hunts, bear baiting, non-animal methods in chemical testing, marine mammal protection, downed animal mistreatment and other farm animal welfare issues.

Throughout his life Lantos also sought to be a voice for human rights and civil liberties. He and Annette Lantos, his childhood sweetheart and wife of nearly 58 years were, as Lantos put it, "full partners both in Congress and in life," and they continued their work right up to his final days. Tom Lantos was the founding co-chairman of the 24-year-old Congressional Human Rights Caucus, which Annette directed as a volunteer since its inception. He also founded the Congressional Friends of Animals Caucus.

Annette said that her husband's life was "defined by courage, optimism, and unwavering dedication to his principles and to his family."

"Today, as we mourn the passing of Representative Lantos, we remember him as a remarkable leader and advocate for the protection and defense of all animals," said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The HSUS. "In recognition of his devoted work for animals, The HSUS will honor Representative Lantos with the Joseph Wood Krutch Medal, its highest honor."

The Joseph Wood Krutch Medal is named for the distinguished public intellectual who spent his last years defending nature and animals. The life and spirit of Joseph Wood Krutch epitomize the same commitment to celebrating animals and preventing cruelty that have motivated The HSUS since its founding in 1954. Representative Lantos is the 40th person to be honored with the award. Previous recipients have included Joy Adamson, Dian Fossey, Jane Goodall, James Herriot, and Richard Leakey.

The date for a public memorial service has not yet been set.

Sources:

http://www.hsus.org
http://www.lantos.house.gov

The Humane Society of the United States has deployed its disaster services strike team to Tennessee, including experienced animal handlers and emergency shelter managers and its shelter and operations trailers from Florida and Maryland, to assist in the aftermath of the deadliest tornadoes in the United States in more than two decades. The storms hit Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Mississippi and Tennessee.

Already, The HSUS has picked up dozens of injured and frightened animals and is housing them in its shelter transport vehicle at the Macon County Fairgrounds. And many more displaced animals are known to be wandering around in Tennessee, where The HSUS is supplementing overtaxed local resources.

"We have been working under the direction of Tennessee DART (Disaster Animal Response Team), to perform field rescue, and provide emergency sheltering and medical help," said Scotlund Haisley, senior director of disaster services at The HSUS. "We've been assigned to handle the needs of pets."

Since the storm as subsided, more and more animals are coming out of hiding and need attention. One of those is "Toto," a Jack Russell Terrier who "fell from the sky," according to the Tennessee citizen who brought him to the HSUS' mobile shelter.

"The things this boy has seen, we'll never know but we can imagine," Haisley said. "We're just glad we have him with us now and in one piece."

Leighann McCollum, The HSUS state director for Tennessee, said she's glad to see everyone working so well together. "The Humane Society of the United States applauds the State of Tennessee and its local emergency management agencies, who have put an enormous amount of work into building their DART teams. "These storms are a tragedy for all involved. I'm glad we are able to help."

Are you and your community prepared for a natural disaster? Click here to find out.

Photos courtesy of the HSUS.

What better time than Valentines Day to fall in love with a new four-legged friend! Right now, there are thousands of healthy, behaviorally sound pets of all breeds, colors and sizes waiting for homes in local animal shelters. You can find your new true love today!

The Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Citizens for Animal Protection, HCPHES Veterinary Public Health, Houston Humane Society and the Houston Department of Health and Human Services - Bureau of Animal Regulation and Care encourage Houstonians to "Have a Heart for Homeless Animals" Thursday, February 14th through Monday, February 18th. Each shelter will be promoting the shelter adoption option and offering half price or 2 for 1 pet adoptions to approved adopters. Adoption policies and costs vary by shelter and specific shelter promotions can be found at each web site.

Visit a "Have a Heart" shelter and discover true love!

During a special event held in Louisiana, also known as "the pelican state" and a major contributor to the bird's recovery, Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne announced the Service is proposing to remove the pelican from the list of threatened and endangered species.

"Thanks to decades of coordinated efforts on the part of state and federal agencies, conservation organizations and private landowners, the pelican has rebounded to historic levels," said Interior Secretary Kempthorne.

In southwest Texas, the Texas Park and Wildlife Department, the Nature Conservancy and numerous conservation organizations helped purchase important nesting sites and develop monitoring programs to pelican rookeries were thriving.

Click to read the complete press release.

Click here for a Brown Pelican Fact Sheet.

Moody Gardens in Galveston returned five sea lions to the New Orleans Zoo.
It has been taking care of them ever since Hurricane Katrina destroyed the zoo.
The zoo is scheduled to reopen on Valentines Day.

A team of Oklahoma State University (OSU) veterinarians, virologists and pathologists at the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (OADDL) recently published a paper in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology on their findings from a Canine parvovirus (CPV) study. Led by Dr. Sanjay Kapil, the group is the first to describe the CPV type 2c variant in the United States.

"We were quite fortunate to discover this variant," explains Kapil. "It has been known for six years in Italy but nobody paid attention to it here until we found it last year."

Shortly after Kapil joined the OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, he received a case at the OADDL. The adult dog had been vaccinated multiple times and still became sick with Parvovirus. "This was very unusual and we were totally surprised that it was CPV type 2c, which had not been found in the U.S. until then," says Kapil.

According to Kapil, the disease presentation is different in that normally parvovirus does not affect adult dogs only puppies. However, since publishing their findings, the OADDL has received samples from adult dogs in Minnesota.

"Veterinarians are confused because the in office diagnostic tests come up negative," explains Kapil. "Clinically it looks like parvovirus so they send it to us. The OADDL tests it and it is parvovirus. Now world-wide (except for Australia), this particular variant can attack the heart and intestines." He goes on to say that the mortality has been quite heavy.

Of 80 cases tested by the OADDL, 26 were from Oklahoma puppies/dogs. Of those 26, 15 tested positive for CPV-2c.

Source: News for cats and dogs - OSU Laboratory Discovers New Canine Parvovirus and OSU press release.

ChemNutra Inc. of Las Vegas along with Xuzhou Anying Biologic Technology Development Co., and Suzhou Textiles, Silk, Light Industrial Products, Arts and Crafts I/E Co., were charged under two separate but related indictments. The indictment alleged that Chinese shipments of wheat gluten tainted with melamine were falsely labeled to avoid inspection.

Click here for more information, News for cats and dogs - 3 Companies Indicted In Tainted Pet Food Case

Martin is a seven-month old, neutered male, Domestic Shorthair Orange Tabby-colored cat. He is declawed. His Animal ID# is A244717.

Molly is a four-month old, spayed female, Domestic Shorthair kitten. Her Animal ID# is A245022.

Timmy is two-year old, neutered male, smooth-coated Fox Terrier. His Animal ID# is A245750.

And, last but certainly not least is Chloe! She is a two-month old Labrador Retriever puppy. Her Animal ID# is A245767.

The adoption fees are $80 for dogs and $70 cats. They are all spayed or neutered, fully vaccinated, de-wormed, dogs are tested for canine heartworm disease and cats are tested for feline leukemia. All are reviewed by a vet.

This weekends Friday's Friends came from Harris County Public Health & Environmental Services and are just a few of the animals up for adoption this weekend at the Saving Animals Across Borders Houston Northwest Mall Pet Adoption Center at Northwest Mall, Northwest Freeway (Hwy 290) at 18th Street (Please Use Entrance D). The Pet Adoption Center is open Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Sunday from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 PM. Call (713) 680-0282 or click here for more information Saving Animals Across Borders.

For more information on Harris County Public Health & Environmental Services, click here countypets.com.

Last week, the HSUS released the videotape findings of its lengthy probe at the Hallmark Meat Packing Company in Chino, Calif. Americans were shocked by the appalling mistreatment of "downed" dairy cows - those who are too sick or injured to walk. Such downer cows are at a greater risk of being infected with mad cow disease and other harmful foodborne pathogens that can jeopardize human health.

School districts rushed to purge their systems of meat from the plant. Restaurants announced an end to purchases from the company. Political leaders across the nation denounced the shocking conditions at this slaughter plant - the nation's No. 2 supplier of ground beef to the National School Lunch Program.

On the day that The HSUS broke the investigation, the USDA suspended its food procurement contracts with Westland Meat Company and announced a formal investigation to be handled by the Food Safety and Inspection Service and the Office of Inspector General.

"On Feb. 4, the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) suspended inspection at Hallmark/Westland Meat Packing Company based on the establishment's clear violation of Federal regulations and the Humane Methods of Slaughter Act," read the statement from Dr. Richard Raymond, Under Secretary for Food Safety for the USDA. "This Notice of Suspension is a regulatory course of action available when FSIS finds egregious violations of humane handling regulations." The USDA shutting down the slaughter plant is a major and relatively rare action by the agency.

The HSUS is also urging Congress to take action in the wake of the revelations. It should pass the Downed Animal and Food Safety Protection Act and the Farm Animal Stewardship Purchasing Act. You can write to lawmakers by clicking on the above links to the HSUS.

Click here to watch a CBS News report on this story, News for cats and dogs - Agriculture Department To Investigate Abuse At California Slaughterhouse

DON'T LET YOUR ANIMALS EAT CHOCOLATE
Chocolate, a popular gift around this time of year, can be dangerous to pets. A ten-pound dog can come away with vomiting/diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures and an abnormally elevated heart rate from just two ounces of baking chocolate or 20 ounces of milk chocolate. Cats are sensitive, too, but they don't normally eat large enough amounts of chocolate to cause anything worse than gastrointestinal upset. Chocolates also contain fat and caffeine-like substances known as methylxanthines, which can potentially cause the above symptoms and, in severe cases, death.

PUT ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES SAFELY AWAY
Many a curious pet has explored an alcoholic beverage left in a glass. If ingested, this could cause vomiting, diarrhea, a lack of coordination, central nervous system depression, tremors, difficulty breathing, metabolic disturbances and coma. Alcohol can even cause death from respiratory failure if a large enough amount is ingested. It is important to keep in mind that animals are not only smaller than us, they often metabolize substances differently. This makes pets more susceptible to alcohol in smaller amounts.

DON'T LET YOUR ANIMALS INGEST SUGAR SUBSTITUTE
Another potential hazard is gum or candy sweetened with the sugar substitute xylitol, which can cause a fairly sudden drop in blood sugar (known as hypoglycemia). This can result in depression, loss of coordination and seizures. "If you suspect your dog may have eaten products containing any of these harmful ingredients, please seek veterinary treatment immediately," says Dr. Steven Hansen, veterinary toxicologist and Vice President of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.

KEEP HOLIDAY FLOWERS OUT OF REACH
Many varieties of lilies are highly toxic to cats, so if these are your Valentine's flower of choice, make sure your cats can't get near them.

Other potentially poisonous flowers may include:
- tulips (especially if potted, as the bulbs are the most toxic)
- amaryllis (same as tulips)
- Calla lily (can cause intense oral and gastrointestinal irritation)
- daisies
- chrysanthemums
- baby's breath

Safer alternatives might include:
- African violet
- asters
- camellia
- Canna lilies (they are not of the genus Lilium)
- jasmine
- orchids

KEEP YOUR PETS AWAY FROM THORNS
Pet owners are urged to take caution with roses and other flowers containing thorns, which could be potentially harmful to pets if played with, bitten, stepped on or swallowed. "It's all too easy for pets to step on thorny stems that fall to the ground as a flower arrangement is being created," says Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine for the ASPCA's Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital. "Be sure to keep your pets clear of your workspace as you arrange your beautiful flowers, since they can develop serious infections from thorn punctures."

DON'T LEAVE CANDLES BURNING
Candlelit dinners are romantic, just don't leave the room while the flames are still burning.

CLEAN UP AFTER WRAPPING AND DECORATING
Make sure to keep balloons, cellophane, tape, ribbons, bows and other wrapping items or festive decorations out of your pets' reach. Choking on any of these items, or ingesting them, may prove hazardous to your pet's health.

THE RIGHT WAY TO GIVE PETS AS PRESENTS
It may seem very tempting to give your loved one a new puppy or kitten for Valentine's Day. They sure are cute and cuddly! But the ASPCA wants to remind you that bringing a new companion animal into your home is a big decision. Why not present your loved one with a gift certificate to adopt from your local shelter, or take a trip to the shelter together? You might just make another love match.

The event will take place at SoVino at 507 Westheimer R.. Tickets to the "Toast to the Animals" are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. To pre-order tickets, call 713.341.3321 or click here.

There will be several wine tasting stations with wine experts on hand. Hors d'oeuvres will also be served. While sipping delicious wines, attendees can bid on silent auction items like impossible-to-get Hannah Montana tickets and SO much more! This event allows the Houston Humane Society to raise money and awareness for all of the animals cared for at the shelter located at 14700 Almeda Rd. SoVino's founders have offered to keep the wine flowing for any ticket holders that decide to enjoy a full meal at SoVino the night of the event.

ABOUT THE HOUSTON HUMANE SOCIETY

The Houston Humane Society (HHS) is a non-profit animal shelter dedicated to eliminating cruelty, abuse, and the overpopulation of animals. They receive no federal, state or local funds and rely solely on donations and special events. HHS provides a wide variety of animal welfare programs to Houston area residents and their pets, including pet adoptions, humane education and Houston's only $30 spay/neuter clinic that is open to the general public.

Spring Break is just around the corner! And, the Houston SPCA is offering a Spring Break Critter Camp that is perfect for your animal lover! This day camp for children 8-14 years old is filled with age-appropriate crafts, games, activities, and animal interactions! Space is limited to 15 campers per day. The application deadline is Friday, February 29th at 5pm to be considered for this fun and educational experience.

Camp dates: March 17 - 20, 2008
Age Range: 8 - 14 years old
Time: 9am to 3pm
Fee: $50 per day/per child

The camp fee includes all camp activities and craft materials, an afternoon snack and drink, and a camp T-shirt. The camp day activities will include a behind-the-scenes tour and visiting shelter cats, dogs, puppies, and farm animals.

For more information, please contact Amber Benn by phone at (713) 869-7722 ext. 143, by email at education@hspca.org or just click here.

During the big game Sunday, Americans were treated to more than a dozen commercials featuring animals ranging from household pets like dogs, to lemurs. And while these ads placed many an animal in outrageous and comical situations, most advertisers made sure safety representatives from the American Humane's Film & TV Unit were on hand to ensure that no animals were ever in danger.

The number of spots monitored by American Humane represented what is believed to be the most ever for Super Bowl-bound commercials. In every ad American Humane monitored, the advertiser succeeded in earning the "No Animals Were Harmed" credit.

"Thanks to decades of leadership from American Humane, film and television directors, producers and actors rely on American Humane to ensure the safety of animal actors," said Karen Rosa, director of American Humane's Film & Television Unit in Los Angeles. "Now, it is especially exciting to see so many advertisers calling on our services as well. It shows that across our society, there is recognition of the importance of the human-animal bond and our fundamental responsibility to care for the animals that we interact with every day." Rosa noted that most TV networks will not air a commercial featuring an animal without American Humane's sign-off letter stating that the production did not harm any animals.

American Humane is a 130-year old organization dedicated to preventing cruelty to children and animals. American Humane is the exclusive authority to grant the "No Animals Were Harmed" end credit seen at the end of movies and television shows. All domestic productions working under the Screen Actors Guild contract are required by that agreement to inform American Humane when using animal actors.

The advertisements certified by American Humane include spots from some of the biggest brands in America, including Anheuser Busch, Bridgestone, Disney, FedEx, Pepsi and Vitamin Water. In each case, the advertiser worked closely with American Humane's highly trained animal safety representatives to ensure the safety of the animals in the production.

According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, more than 85 percent of dogs and cats show signs of oral disease by age four. The trouble begins when food particles and bacteria build up in the mouth to form plaque and tartar, which leads to reversible gingivitis. Gingivitis, if ignored, will progress to periodontal disease. Irreversible periodontal disease leads to tooth decay, bad breath, bleeding gums and, in severe cases, tooth loss. When bacteria from periodontal disease travels into a pet's bloodstream, the lungs, heart, kidneys, liver and nervous system can be affected. These infections usually are treatable when caught at an early stage. However, if they are not caught in time, they can cause serious organ damage and even death.

The American Veterinary Dental Society recommends that pet owners follow three basic steps:

Take your pet to the veterinarian for a dental exam. Don't wait for his annual checkup if you suspect a problem.

Begin a dental care regimen at home. Your veterinarian can suggest steps that may include brushing your pet's teeth.

Schedule regular veterinary checkups. These are essential in helping your veterinarian monitor the progress of your pet's dental health routine.

Source: News for cats and dogs - National Pet Dental Health Month

I received this plea for help from the Homeless Pet Placement League.

"Sometimes, circumstances force our dogs to be kenneled versus being in a foster home until adopted. Such is the case for a sweet young girl named Phoebe. She is a brindle terrier mix and around 7 months old. She has been boarded now for about 2 months. We have not been able to find a foster home for her. Sadly, she is declining rapidly because of being kenneled day and night."

There is also Obie, the German Shepherd (featured last spring in the HPPL newsletter and later here on Animal Attraction), is also back in boarding. He needs that special home! Here is Obie's story...

"My name is Obie. I am big and beautiful, and I am begging you to help me. In the late summer of 2006, I was found wandering in a field after having been attacked by other dogs. My overall condition was pathetic. I was so malnourished (now I am 80 pounds!) that every rib showed, and I was full of heartworms, infested with mange and fleas, and had ears so badly damaged from infections that they will never stand up (to make me even more handsome!). Now it is early 2008 and my physical health is great. But let me tell you, I have been through six surgeries and more medicines than I can count. The amazing thing is that with all the treatments, I remain the most loving and gentle dog you could meet. I was lucky enough to be admitted to the Homeless Pet Placement League's rehabilitation program and many, many people have contributed to my costly care. But the one thing I am desperate for is a HOME. Can you believe that I have lived at the veterinary hospital where I get my care for going on one year! Someone actually adopted me for a few months, but due to my separation anxiety brought me back. It's true that when you live in a place for a very long time and get used to people being around you for most of the day and evening, you get a little nervous when you are all alone. But this issue has many ways of being resolved and so I know I can be someone's perfect guy with special effort and affection."

If can help Phoebe or Obie by providing foster homes or forever homes, please call (713) 862-7387. Donations are warmly welcomed and greatly appreciated.

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

MALE CATS ONLY! Appointment for surgery required. No food after 10:00 p.m. the night before surgery. Cats must arrive at the clinic in a carrier or a pillowcase. If your cat already has its rabies vaccination, you must bring the rabies certificate.

SNAP Mobile Clinic at Harris County PHES Veterinary Public Health, 612 Canino, Houston, TX. Call 281.999.8531 to make an appointment. Please leave a message if there is no answer.

Spay-Neuter Assistance Program, 1603 Shepherd Drive, Houston, TX 77007. Call 713.863.0010 or send an email to appointments@snapus.org to schedule an appointment.

CALL TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!! Space is limited.

"No-Birth Is The First Step To No-Kill"

Funded by Chris & Don Sanders

Jackie is a seven-month old, spayed female, Domestic Medium Hair Orange Tabby-colored cat. Her Animal ID# is A244654.

Gabana is a one-year old, neutered male, Domestic Shorthair Tabby-colored cat. His Animal ID# is A244872.

Reilly is a five-month old, neutered male, Australian Cattle Dog. His Animal ID# is A244900.

And, last but certainly not least is Stacey! She is a four-month old Manchester Terrier puppy. Her Animal ID# is A244741.

The adoption fees are $80 for dogs and $70 cats. They are all spayed or neutered, fully vaccinated, de-wormed, dogs are tested for canine heartworm disease and cats are tested for feline leukemia. All are reviewed by a vet.

This weekends Friday's Friends came from Harris County Public Health & Environmental Services and are just a few of the animals up for adoption this weekend at the Saving Animals Across Borders Houston Northwest Mall Pet Adoption Center at Northwest Mall, Northwest Freeway (Hwy 290) at 18th Street (Please Use Entrance D). The Pet Adoption Center is open Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Sunday from 12:00 Noon to 6:00 PM. Call (713) 680-0282 or click here for more information Saving Animals Across Borders.

For more information on Harris County Public Health & Environmental Services, click on countypets.com.