Moving to www.ledger-enquirer.com!

Hey everyone!

So the L-E has made it possible for me to move my blog to their Web site. From now on, I'll be updating Girl's Best Friend at www.ledger-enquirer.com/girlsbestfriend. No more Blogspot!

Unfortunately, I won't be able to move my old posts to my new address, so I'll keep this blog up for those who want to read past entries.

See ya on the L-E Web site!

Love,

Andrea & CeCe

Digital x-rays for pets

Hey, make sure you check out Larry Gierer's story about a local vet who uses digital x-rays.

It's James Thorsen at Animal Health Center in Columbus. He talks about the advantages of this type of technology.

Here's the link.

Celebrity pets

Is it just me or do celebrities always have tiny or furry (or both) dogs like chihuahuas and yorkies?

Do you think that's just what you're supposed to get as a celebrity? Is it like, a rite of passage?

Or do you think those breeds are just super-popular in general?

Check out this photo gallery of celebrities and their pets.

Oldest dog in the world

Check out this story on the oldest dog in the world, a 21-year-old dachshund named Chanel.

The Long Island resident celebrates her 21st birthday today.

Make sure you check out the photo gallery as well. There are some pictures of Chanel with her special cataracts glasses (awww.) Can you believe this pooch used to sport an all-red coat?

Happy Birthday, Chanel!

Russell County pet owners: get pets vaccinated!

For all the Russell County pet owners who make sure their pets are up-to-date on their vaccinations, great!

For those who don't...you better get it done soon.

Deputy rabies inspectors will be going door to door to check for pet rabies vaccinations starting Monday, May 11.

If your pet is caught without proper vaccination, you'll have to pay a fine.

I'm guessing this came out of the several rabid animal cases they discovered recently in Phenix City.

Check out the full story here.

Kodi the schipperke

Every now and then L-E videographer and colleague Joe Paull will send me new pictures of his schipperke, Kodi. Check it out:

Isn't he so cute? CeCe and Kodi have yet to meet but we're hoping we'll be able to set a play date soon.

Rabies in the Valley

I hope everyone out there is being careful and making sure their pets are vaccinated.

Some rabid animals have been found in Phenix City as of late. They were found in residential areas after they had attacked people's pets. Check out the L-E story here.

Please take proper precautions! This is really scary.

PAWS Humane and Chili's

PAWS Humane is participating in another fundraising night at Chili's.

It's Monday, May 4 from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Chili's in Columbus Park Crossing, 5555 Whittlesey Blvd. in Columbus.

With each flyer presented, 10 percent of your bill will go to our local animal shelter.

Download the flyer at www.pawscolumbus.org.

Octo-mom wants a pig

So the infamous octo-mom Nadya Suleman wants to add a pet to her family.

She's thinking about a pig.

Is this lady serious? How about finding a job to provide for your 14 kids first?

(Check out the US Weekly story here.)

Anyway, PETA's gotten involved (which always provides for some sort of entertainment.) Check out what they had to say to Nadya here.

PetSmart Charities Spring National Adoption Weekend

Thinking about bringing home a new furry friend?

Adopt one!

PetSmart Charities is holding their Spring National Adoption Weekend this weekend, and the local PetSmart on Bradley Park Drive is participating.

I called and was informed it'll be going on Friday, 4-10 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. They'll have adoptable pets from all over the region.

Help PetSmart meet their goal - they're trying to find homes for more than 13,800 homeless pets.

For more information, click here.

Our local PetSmart is located at 1591 Bradley Park Dr., next to Target. Call 706-323-6788 for more information.

Can pets catch the swine flu?

Supposedly not...so far.

Read more here.

Humans can stay healthy if they follow some common-sense tips from the CDC. Check those out here.

Georgia vets to help service animals

More than 60 vets in Georgia plan to donate 10 percent of their gross receipts May 5 (next Tuesday) for service animals owned by disabled folks and pet owners with financial hardships.

Check out a short L-E post here.

Not sure if any Columbus area vets are doing this, but it would be worth asking them. If local vets want to participate, they can contact the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association office at 678-309-9800.

Happy (Belated) Earth Day

I apologize for posting an Earth Day-related thing a day after, but I found some great tips online for reducing your pets' carbon paw print - something you can do year-round.

Check out this piece from the Houston Chronicle.

Sprinkling yeast/garlic on a dog's food as a flea repellant sounds pretty interesting. Even though CeCe's breath could get stinkier, I actually might try it.

Pet airline ready for take off

Hey y'all...sorry it's been a while. I've been out of town/entertaining guests for the past two weekends and have been trying to catch up at work. The good thing is the first weekend, CeCe got to spend time with her "daddy" (my boyfriend was visiting from out of town - haha) and the second weekend, she got to run and play with other dogs at the kennel (my vet recently got the backyard fence completed.)

Speaking of being out of town, I came across some stories that a new pet airline is scheduled to launch this summer. Pet Airways, based in Delray Beach, Fla., will fly to regional airports in five major cities - NYC, LA, Denver, DC and Chicago. (Sorry, none in Atlanta.)

It's only for dogs and cats who don't want to ride in the cargo hold (or at least, whose owners don't want them to.) Average fare for each pet is about $250 each way.

Read more about the airlines here.

My question is...if this service was available at the Columbus or Atlanta airport, would you use it? I know I've expressed my fear about letting CeCe fly in the cargo area, but $500 to fly roundtrip? Those planes better have a four poster bed and Evian water for her!

Obama dog

So Bo is pretty cute!

If you haven't heard, the Obamas debuted their new puppy Bo, a Portuguese water dog, to the world yesterday.

The Obamas had been deliberating over a family dog for many months. If you recall, I posted something about it in January (click here) - totally routing for the Portuguese water dog over the labradoodle.

Check out this YouTube video of Bo in action.

And here's an Associated Press story about Bo's arrival.

Free kitties

My L-E colleague Sandra Okamoto just e-mailed the newsroom about a mama cat who recently gave birth to three adorable kitties! They're looking for forever homes. Here is Sandra's e-mail:

Everyone,

A mama cat brought her three kittens, one by one, to our covered driveway yesterday. A neighbor wondered where she was taking them and came to our house. He had been feeding the mama and brought over a sack of food. I guess she scouted out the neighborhood and liked what she saw at our house. Even Piiko barking at her hasn’t fazed her.

My mother and I have been feeding her since yesterday.

The kittens look like they are about three weeks old and they are absolutely gorgeous. Mama’s gorgeous, too. One kitten is a dark smoky gray, another is yellow and the third is a tabby. I know all kittens and putties are gorgeous, but these are truly beautiful.

If you’re interested, or know someone who might want a cat, please let me know. Otherwise, we’ll have to take them to PAWS. I have three dogs and you know about Chipper, my devil dog. He’s not happy that they are in our driveway, even though he never goes there. I think just the thought of it bothers him!

Sandra

E-mail her at sokamoto@ledger-enquirer.com if you' interested.

Easter event at 2nd Ave. Animal Hospital

Your pup is going to be super-busy this weekend.

Second Avenue Animal Hospital is also having an Easter event on Saturday, April 11. It's 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the hospital, which is located at 4025 2nd Ave.

They'll have an Easter egg bone hunt (hehe) and pet photos.

All doggies will receive egg prizes, but the lucky pooch who finds the special egg gets a surprise. Oh, and make sure to bring your own basket!

Call 706-507-7297 for more details.

Pup-friendly vehicles

Looking for a car that will accomodate your doggies?

USA Today recently reviewed the 2009 Honda Element, which touts a built-in bed, water bowl, pet net, cooling fans, ramps and more - things to make your pooch more comfortable in the car.

Check out the review here. Make sure you watch the video - it shows great footage of the features.

I think this is great for those interested in SUV vehicles. I wish they had a non-SUV vehicle that had these features (I'm not big on large cars.) CeCe is a small dog and she usually sits in the front seat. That kind of makes me uncomfortable because she's not secured in any way. I will admit there have been times when I've had to brake suddenly and she gets tossed around. =(

I also found this Web site called DogCars.com that reviews different vehicles, according to how dog-friendly the car is. Check it out.

Relay for Dogs update

I got the chance to correspond last week with Mandy Revell, coordinator of the Relay for Dogs event in Columbus April 25. (Check out the original post on the event here.) Two things:

1) Relay for Dogs now has a Web site! Check out and register for the event on www.relayfordogs.com.

2) The event's time has been extended to 3 p.m.

Also, if you plan to go, please remember to bring a record of your pup's rabies vaccination and city permit (for Columbus residents.)

Through a dog's eyes

Sometimes I look at CeCe and I'm a little envious.

Envious because she doesn't have to worry about family issues, her health, the economy, paying bills or a career. In fact, I'm pretty sure she doesn't even know what those are.

Her life is so simple and carefree. All she knows is sleeping, eating, snacking on treats, laying on the couch, watching Animal Planet, going for walks, hanging out at the park and expressing her enthusiasm to play with other dogs (i.e. barking.)

If only human life could be that simple.

Anyway, I found this beautiful piece on the New York Times' Web site. (Check it out here.) As it states, Dana Jennings is a NY Times editor with prostate cancer. In his blog, he writes about lessons he's learned from the family dog, Bijou.

Yes, our lives are probably a lot more complicated than Bijou's or CeCe's...but that doesn't mean we can't enjoy simple pleasures every now and then.

Easter pet parade

Want Sparky to get involved in some Easter festivities?

You're in luck. Longleaf at Callaway Gardens is holding its third annual Easter pet parade on Saturday, April 11 at 10 a.m.

Pets have the chance to win in several categories, including best bonnet and best outfit. There will also be raffles, music and an Easter dog biscuit hunt.

If you didn't know, Longleaf is an environmentally-friendly residential community within Callaway Gardens. Everyone is welcome to the parade, but non-Longleaf residents must pay a $5 registration fee. Proceeds go to the Harris County Humane Society.

You can register that day at the Longleaf post office (the former sales office) located at the entrance.

For more information or to pre-register, call Lorraine Berry at 706-663-7633 or e-mail lberry22@rocketmail.com.

Big pet expo coming to Atlanta

This sounds like a very cool day trip or weekend trip for the whole family - pets included, of course.

Pets and More USA Expo is coming to the North Atlanta Trade Center in Norcross, Ga., on Friday, May 1. The expo will be from Friday to Sunday (May 1-3) and sounds like it will offer everything pet-related that you can think of (at least, that I can think of.)

Like what? Pet adoptions, a micro-chip clinic, a "Muttallica" dog sport and comedy show, vendors (pet wear, vacuums, toys, jewelry, pet insurance, pet furniture, behavioral books and videos, etc.), a reptile exhibit, agility and other educational demonstrations, an art contest, and of course, dog contests for cash and prizes. There will be a "Leave It" contest, "Longest Stay" contest and "I'm So Ugly, I'm So Cute" contest, just to name a few.

The big attraction, I think, will be the featured guests. Joel Silverman, host of Animal Planet's Good Dog U, will be conducting daily demonstrations on training your dog. Atlanta dog trainer Susie Aga will also be on hand.

It's $7 per day or $12 for a 3-day pass.

You can get more info on www.petsandmoreusaexpo.com. Oh, and you can print a $2 coupon off the Web site, too.

Before you adopt a pet...

So one of my girlfriends is thinking about adopting a pooch - specifically, a yorkie. It's been pretty difficult finding a purebred yorkie at the local shelters, considering little dogs are usually the ones that get adopted the fastest (not to mention purebred.)

Anyway, I'm dedicating this post to her (hi Kara!) I found this list of things to consider before adopting a pet. A number of the tips are things I wish people told me before I adopted CeCe! Of course, I don't regret one thing with her.

I just wish someone would have told me earlier how housetraining would make me want to pull my hair out. Thank goodness those days are over!

Vegan pets

Can dogs and cats be vegans?

Is it fair to put pets on a vegan diet?

Those are a couple of issues that's addressed in this ABC News story on vegan diets for pets.

I guess if pets are still getting the nutrients they need out of a vegan diet, and no pet is getting sick from the diet, then it should be OK.

But like the Ohio State professor quoted in the article, I would not do that for my own dog. Dogs are carnivores and I feel I would be depriving CeCe of what canines have been feasting on since the beginning of time.

She loves her chicken, eggs and yogurt - all things that are excluded in a vegan diet. CeCe would probably be very upset if I took that away from her.

Watch your step!

So the CDC has found pets are responsible for more than 86,000 fall injuries every year. Dogs are the biggest culprits.

Check it out here.

It's interesting how the article pointed out that it's not just the elderly who are falling. I, too, have tripped over CeCe (and her toys.) CeCe just loves following me...right on my heels.

Hellooooo...hasn't she heard of the term "personal space?"

(J/k.)

Mutt Strut in Auburn, Ala.

Here's another upcoming event that you and your dog can participate in. It's the same day as the Relay for Dogs in Columbus, but this event is in Auburn, Ala. (for all my Lee County readers!)

The Lee County Humane Society is holding their annual 5-K race Saturday, April 25, at Kiesel Park in Auburn. This is the kick-off to Auburn CityFest.

The race is for humans, but you can bring your dog if he/she is your running partner (as long as the dog is on a leash and has had a rabies shot.)

The race starts at 8 a.m. and you can register that day from 6:30-7:30 a.m. You can download Mutt Strut registration forms at the LCHS Web site.

It's $15 (tax-deductible) to enter. Families can register - $15 for the first member and $10 for each additional member. Everyone gets a prize bag and t-shirt.

All proceeds will go toward the LCHS's general operating fund.

Animal abuse in Columbus

http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/news/breaking_news/story/662085.html

This is outrageous.If this so-called owner couldn't give the dog food and water, why didn't he/she just give them up to the animal shelter? Why did they have to wait until the dog was malnourished and on the brink of death to get help at Animal Emergency Center?

I mean, come on, people.

There's really no excuse for neglecting an animal of something as simple as FOOD and WATER. I don't know the owner's situation, but I really can't think of any excuses for STARVING a poor dog.

Relay for Dogs

Just posted this event on the L-E Web site. This sounds like a really cool local event for the pups! I work on Saturdays, but CeCe and I are going to try to go early and stay for a short while...

1st ANNUAL RELAY FOR DOGS

Local pet owners and their canine companions are invited to the first annual Relay for Dogs in Columbus.

The event will be held Saturday, April 25, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hardaway High School track. Hardaway High School is located at 2901 College Dr.

There will be a dog wash, pet photographer, calendar contest and food - for both dogs and humans. Pet-related vendors will also be on site.

To register your dog, it's $10 in advance or $15 on site. That includes a bandana and goodie bag. People are free.

All proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society.

You can pre-register by e-mailing relayfordogs@yahoo.com or calling Mandy at 706-888-4857.

Free puppies in Columbus

Need a puppy? My colleague Sandra Okamoto forwarded me an e-mail from a friend whose dog recently had a HUGE litter of puppies! (Pictured above.) The mama dog is named Lassie and she was rescued off the street. Lassie gave birth to 11 pups, but three died. The remaining eight are now looking to forever homes!

They think Lassie is a beagle/terrier mix and her male mate's breed is unknown. All the puppies have had their first deworming treatment and first round of shots. The vet said they should grow to be no larger than their mom (45 lbs.)

Interested? Contact Cameron Faucette at cameronfaucette@yahoo.com or cfaucette@maloneoffice.com.

More Petland accusations

I've heard the Petland rumors many times before: the chain uses unsanitary puppy mills.

Whether that's true, I don't know.

Now, some pet owners are suing the chain, blaming Petland for medical and behavioral problems in pets purchased from the store.

Check out the AP story here.

Considering we have a Petland in town, I'm wondering if any local folks have purchased a pup from Petland. What was that experience like? How's your dog now? Any problems? I'd also like to hear from people who bought a Petland pet and are satisfied.

Make your pup a movie star

Just found out from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's pet blog that they will be holding a casting call TOMORROW, Friday, March 20, in Atlanta for a role in a new Disney film.

Sorry people...dogs only!

According to the AJC, the film will be similar to "Beverly Hills Chihuahua," "Bolt" and "Space Buddies."

Sign-ups to audition is SUPER, SUPER limited - 15 slots, to be exact. Sign-ups start at 11:30 a.m.

Check out the AJC pets blog here, and more information on the casting call here.

Martha Stewart Pets

Want to learn how to make your own cardboard cat playhouse? How about a doggy coat?

Martha Stewart has launched a pet Web site. You can learn how to create the aforementioned projects - plus 33 more - if you visit.

Click here.

I was totally eyeing the "simple pet pillow" project...although I'm having second thoughts. CeCe has ripped up every bed I've purchased for her. She had an accident on the last one I bought from Walgreen's.

Maybe I'd fare better with the suede doggy coat project.

Anyway, the Web site has other cool features, like photo contests and a blog "written" by Sharkey and Franchesca - Stewart's two French bulldogs, haha!

No jump!

So I have a problem.

Among other things, I've taught CeCe how to sit, stay, bark on command and stop barking on command.

But I CANNOT get her to stop jumping on people!

It happened again today. A lady from my apartment's management stopped by with the pest control guy. CeCe went straight for the lady and would not stop jumping.

It's actually become kind of embarrassing. As soon as a visitor walks through the door, CeCe will start jumping on him/her. When visitors sit down, CeCe will get on the couch and literally place herself on top of them - licking and even nipping a little.

I've tried to keep her on a leash when a visitor enters, pull her back when she attempts to jump and say firmly, "No jump!"

I've also asked visitors to ignore her when they come in (a tactic I saw on "It's Me or the Dog.")

And when CeCe's on the couch, I've repeated, "Off!" and "Behave!" when she tries to jump on a friend.

All this has not worked.

Is this "enthusiasm" just the terrier in her, or is there a way to keep her from jumping?

Poor kitty

Cats really do have nine lives.

A cat in Spokane was found stuck in a couch after 12 days with no food or water.

That's the cat, Vee Vee, pictured above.

She's currently being nursed back to health at a Spokane animal shelter.

Read the full story here.

Who's the smartest of them all?

Think your dog is the canine version of Einstein?

PetMD recently came up with a list of the world's 10 most intelligent dog breeds.

Wanna see if your pup made the list?

Check it out here.

Don't leave dogs with children!

Got another forwarded e-mail today from a co-worker and decided it was totally worth sharing...

DOG OWNERS BEWARE........

WARNING!!!

Please read!!! If you are an owner of a dog that belongs to a 'dangerous breed' category And you also have a small child please take this as a warning. Don't leave Your dog with the child unattended under any circumstances. Only a little moment was enough for the following to happen. See the photo Attached ....

LoL!

Atlanta cat show

Attention all cat lovers!

The Atlanta Phoenix Cat Society is hosting a cat show this weekend.

Check out more than 300 cats at the show. There will also be vendors, food and adoptable kitties from the Persian Rescue Society.

The show runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

It will be held at the East Roswell Recreation Center, 9000 Fouts Rd., in Roswell, Ga.

$5 for adults and $4 for children or seniors.

For more information, visit this Web site or e-mail donna@kyetrak.com.

Pet diaries

Allison Kennedy, fellow L-E reporter and cat lover, forwarded me an e-mail today that I thought was absolutely hilarious. I've copied it below:

Excerpts from a Dog's Diary......
8:00 am - Dog food! My favorite thing!
9:30 am - A car ride! My favorite thing!
9:40 am - A walk in the park! My favorite thing!
10:30 am - Got rubbed and petted! My favorite thing!
12:00 pm - Lunch! My favorite thing!
1:00 pm - Played in the yard! My favorite thing!
3:00 pm - Wagged my tail! My favorite thing!
5:00 pm - Milk Bones! My favorite thing!
7:00 pm - Got to play ball! My favorite thing!
8:00 pm - Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favorite thing!
11:00 pm - Sleeping on the bed! My favorite thing!

Excerpts from a Cat's Daily Diary...
Day 983 of my captivity...

My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets.

Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength.

The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape. In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomit on the carpet.

Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am capable of. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a 'good little hunter' I am. Bastards.

There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of 'allergies.' I must learn what this means and how to use it to my advantage.

Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow -- but at the top of the stairs.

I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches. The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released - and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded.

The bird has got to be an informant. I observe him communicating with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe. For now................

Schipperkes!

So my pal and Ledger-Enquirer video journalist Joe Paull recently got a puppy! Kodi is a schipperke (Joe pronounces it SKIPPER-key.) It's a breed I knew little about when he first told me. They kind of look like furry little bats! Take a look at Kodi:

(Pictured above is Joe's wife and daughter, Rebecca and Josie, walking Kodi at the park.)

Isn't Kodi cute? Joe says he nips a little, but perhaps that's just the puppy in him.

Read more about schipperkes here.

Killa, the pit bull

So did y'all check out the story we had in the paper today about a Phenix City police officer shooting a pit bull three times for charging?

If not, read it here.

Perhaps the officer should have used pepper spray to stop Killa from charging. Perhaps he wouldn't have pulled the trigger if Killa was say, a chihuahua or beagle.

At the same time, I don't think Killa's owner should have just let her dog out to relieve himself. Unleashed. All by his lonesome.

No matter how much an owner says, "Oh, my dog is harmless, he wouldn't hurt a fly," there will always be people who are just straight up uncomfortable with an unrestrained dog in public.

Really, it's the owner's responsibility...and city law.

I don't think there are any winners in this situation. Both sides share the blame.

Sad news

Not sure if some of y'all checked out the reader comments on my post about Bain, the lost boxer, being found.

Check out the post here.

His owner, Katie, said Bain was hit by a car and killed. The person who was responsible finally called to let them know.

Please keep Bain's family in your prayers in their time of loss.

Go Oprah!

So Oprah has added a new dog to her family.

It's a yet-to-be-named cocker spaniel.

The best part?

She adopted the pup from a Chicago animal shelter!

YAY!

Check out the story here.

Poor pups

I hate to be posting one animal mistreatment story after another, but check this out:

More than 130 doggies were rescued from an unsanitary kennel today in Cherokee County, Ga.

Check out the AJC's story here.

My question is...why was this lady able to keep the 28 other animals?

Cat in a bong

Did y'all happen to see the paper today?

We had a story about a Nebraska man who stuffed his kitten into a homemade (marijuana) bong. He said he did it to calm her down.

Wow. This fool is not right in the mind.

The good news is that the kitty is doing fine now.

Check out the story here.

Bain's been found!

Just checked my e-mail and Second Avenue Animal Hospital reports that Bain has been found! Yay! Our prayers worked.

Doggy yoga at a time like this?

Only in L.A...

Check out this Bloomberg story on L.A. residents who are still spending dough on massages, yoga classes, and - get this - prosthetic testicles for their pets, despite the recession.

I mean, hey, if you got the cheese, I guess you can spend it however you want.

But the piece brings up the significant point that while these pet owners are spending boatloads of money on their pets, the number of homeless animals in shelters nationwide is on the rise.

I feel if you have $100 to spend to get your cat's nails clipped, then why not make a donation to a local shelter?

That could go a long way...

Lost boxer in Columbus area

So on Monday, I picked CeCe up from boarding at Second Avenue Animal Hospital and noticed flyers for a lost dog named Bain (pictured above.)

Today a colleague forwarded me an e-mail about Bain and his story. Apparently he escaped from Second Ave...

So please keep an eye out! Especially those in the Bibb City area. Here's what the e-mail said:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT: Angie LeFranc, 706.888.2661

Plea for Community to Find Dog

Animal Hospital Loses Family Dog, $500 reward announced

COLUMBUS, GA, 2-22-09)—Like many families the Krieg’s took their beloved dog, Bain to an animal hospital for boarding while they were out of town. Upon their return they found out that Bain was lost at 1:30am on Sunday, February 22^nd from the 2^nd Avenue Animal Hospital.

The Animal Hospital did not properly secure the dog, who pushed through an unlocked door and set off the burglar alarm notifying the owner and police. When authorities arrived at the scene the owner opened the hospital door letting the adult, male boxer loose in the streets of Columbus.

For 12 hours the staff at the Animal Hospital looked for the dog before calling the owners. Search parties remained out all day Monday talking to neighbors and putting up flyers. The 2^nd Avenue Animal Hospital is offering a $500 reward for the return of the Boxer, Bain.

If you have any idea of his whereabouts, please contact Angie LeFranc at 706.888.2661.

Additional photos and information on the boxer, Bain can be found on Craigslist at http://columbusga.craigslist.org/pet/1045986607.html

Portuguese water dog for the Obamas

It's a Portuguese water dog for the Obamas!

At least, that's the breed Michelle Obama told People magazine they plan to bring home in April, after Malia and Sasha's spring break.

Check out the story here.

I can't wait until they name the new addition. Whatever, Michelle...I totally dig the name Frank. :)

Winston: Milk-Bone's new spokesdog

Winston, a 2-year-old Great Dane from Wisconsin, has won the Make a Milk-Bone Moment contest, scoring $100,000 for his family and the chance to grace a number of Milk-Bone boxes.

That's him pictured above, with one of his owners Melisa Ruppert.

Isn't he adorable?! I love how he has his paws crossed in the pic.

Check out some video here.

Flying with pets = expensive!

Hey everyone!

Sorry it's been awhile. I took a few days off so I could fly to North Carolina to visit my significant other.

When I checked in on AirTran, I was pretty irritated to discover that they now charge for EVERY BAG you check in - even if you have just one. I knew a bunch of airlines were implementing this kind of charge, but I had forgotten and it caught me off-guard.

It was $15 per bag...so $30 for me, roundtrip. I know it's not a lot, but I mean, what ever happened to the days when you could check in two bags for free, and it didn't matter if they were over 50 lbs. each? I guess those days are long gone.

That's not the only fee that has gone up at the airport.

Apparently the cost to fly with your pets has as well.

Check out this article from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Consider this: I bought my AirTran flight to Raleigh/Durham airport for $49 each way. If I had brought CeCe with me, it would have been an additional $69 each way for her. It would have cost MORE for HER to fly than for ME! And she's the one who would be stuck in the cargo area!

Is it just me or do these pet fees make no sense at all?

Get a $20 vet voucher

In light of these tough economic times, Bayer HealthCare is offering $20 vouchers for veterinary visits.

Sounds too good to be true?

Check it out here.

The downside is that it's pretty difficult to actually obtain one. The promotion runs until Feb. 28 and up to 1,000 vouchers are distributed between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. each day. I tried this afternoon and it said they had reached their voucher limit for the hour (more than 80 per hour.)

But, I'm going to keep trying.

If you score one, let me know. You'll have until May 31 to redeem the voucher, if you get it.

Good luck!

R.I.P. Bagel Cabanban

R.I.P. Bagel Cabanban - Jan. 8, 1999 - Feb. 12, 2009

On Friday, I spent part of the evening crying on the phone with one of my aunties in California. They had to put down their family dog, Bagel, on Thursday because of gallbladder stones and a broken hind leg.

I first met Bagel in the summer of 2005 while visiting my cousins in Los Angeles. She was a beagle mix that my two little cousins, Finina and Regina, picked out from a local shelter. They said she was so well-trained when they brought the 6-year-old dog home: she knew not to mess on the carpet, settled onto blankets they laid out for her and loved to be petted. Her previous owner must have taken good care of her, they said.

My auntie said before Bagel passed, she'd wonder why pet owners would get so upset when their cat or dog died. But then she experienced it and found out why.

She told me she was not giving or throwing away any of Bagel's things. She wondered why the shelter never told her Bagel had medical problems. She said she was trying to be strong and not cry in front of her two girls, one who wakes up in the middle of the night crying for Bagel.

I've never experienced a pet death, but I told my aunt at least Bagel lived a good four happy years with them. Who would have known what would have happened if they never adopted her out of the shelter?

Bagel's passing reminds me of this quote about people coming into our lives. I think it can apply to pets coming into our lives as well:

"Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some stay for awhile and leave footprints on our hearts. And we are never, ever the same."

Chimp on a rampage

This is crazy...

Police shoot chimp after rampage wounds U.S. woman

Tue Feb 17, 2009 11:37am EST

NEW YORK, Feb 17 (Reuters) - Police shot and killed a 200-pound (90-kg) chimpanzee that had once starred in television commercials after the ape nearly killed its owner's friend and attacked a police cruiser.

Read the rest of the story here.

Did the chimp's owner seriously teach him how to drink wine and brush his teeth?! Really, though.

Butt out

A new survey shows that smokers who don't want to quit smoking may have second thoughts if they're told it could harm their pets.

Check out the NY Times story here.

Yes, second-hand smoke affects pets too, the article says.

(That's kind of obvious. If it harms people, I would assume it would harm pets too.)

Anyway, I don't smoke. And I think CeCe appreciates that I don't. :)

Why do we love cats and dogs?

Why do we love cats and dogs?

A PBS documentary is exploring the reasons.

I missed the premiere of "Why We Love Cats and Dogs", but Georgia Public Broadcasting (Channel 28) is showing it again this week:

Tuesday, Feb. 17 at 12 a.m.

Saturday, Feb. 21 at 4 p.m.

Here's the introduction from PBS' Web site:

"Some people are cat people, some are dog people. But regardless of which camp they fall into, most people are simply crazy about their pets. The connections people form with their cats and dogs are often the longest, strongest relationships in their lives. They are our soul mates, our best friends, sometimes even our surrogate children. What makes these creatures such key members of our families?

Perhaps it’s because our furry friends have long provided us with comfort, camaraderie, and unconditional love. Cats and dogs are our unending source of kisses, cuddles, slobber, claws, and laughs. Watch as NATURE shares the stories of pet owners and their beloved animals. From a very special dog named Jerry, to a cat that saved a man’s life, Why We Love Cats and Dogs presents a portrait of some of the most powerful and remarkable connections we experience as humans—the unbreakable bonds with our pets."

Oh, and if you think your pet is the cutest pet ever (what pet owner DOESN'T think that?), you can enter PBS' photo contest. Contest deadline is March 2. Click on the link here.

President's Day Adopt-a-thon

Thinking about bringing home a new furry friend?

PAWS Humane is having a President's Day Adopt-a-thon this weekend.

Adoption fees range from $75 to $200+.

The new center is located at 4900 Milgen Rd. Today, they're open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. On Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. And on Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Call 706-563-DOGS or visit www.pawshumane.org for more info.

Brush your teeth!

So I recently received an e-mail from Second Avenue Animal Hospital informing me that February is Pet Dental Awareness Month.

Yikes.

(That's the first thought that came to mind.)

Why?

Because I am guilty of not brushing CeCe's teeth.

I actually have a pet toothbrush, which I bought when CeCe was just a puppy. She's not very fond of it.

I guess now could be a good time to start brushing regularly, right?

Check out this eHow article for pet owners who need a little assistance: How to Clean Your Dog's Teeth.

And if you need some more help, why not visit your vet? Here's a link for 50% off a dental exam at Second Ave. Vet. (Pets can win a prize for best smile, too.)

Valentine's Day gifts

I know the economy totally stinks right now, and I've been reading all these articles about how Americans aren't spending as much for Valentine's Day this year.

But of course, there are always those who will sacrifice luxuries for themselves before they will for their pets. So here's a question: do you plan on purchasing any V-day gifts for your four-legged friend this year?

I was browsing PeoplePets.com and found these photos of potential V-day presents for your pet.

A dog bed for $125?

Hmmm.

I think CeCe would be equally happy if I just gave her a smooch and a good rub-down.

Congrats to Stump!

A Sussex spaniel named Stump stole the show...the Westminster dog show, that is.

My co-worker cheered when he found out Stump, who won Best in Show, is 10 years old. (He's a fan of older pets.)

To be honest, I can't even tell he's 10. He doesn't look a day over 6 (or 32 in dog years.)

Want more fun facts about Stump?

Check out this article.

Also, here's a link to the dog show Web site.

Economy affects Westminster

So have y'all been keeping up with the Westminster dog show?

Clearly, these are different economic times, and they've affected this high-profile dog show as well.

Check out this Associated Press story to see how.

There's also a link for a slideshow on the page. Call me biased, but I really like this picture of Walter, a Boston terrier!

Miracle dog

A golden retriever and his owner were reunited after the dog survived six months in the Montana wilderness. The cold, cold Montana wilderness, at that.

Check out the story here.

Unbelievable, huh?

Food animal vets

From a Ledger-Enquirer news post today:

Members of the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association will meet with Georgia legislators today in Atlanta. The main issues to be discussed are continued funding for the only veterinary medical school in Georgia and a proposal to forgive some student loans in order to boost the number of food animal veterinarians.

Check out more here.

Autistic children and dogs

Check out this story that ran in the Lexington Herald-Leader about a week ago. It really touched me.

It's about a little autistic boy named Michael. His parents have brought in a black lab named Mercury who's being trained to help their son - to protect him and serve as a companion.

It looks like Michael and Mercury are still learning to work with each other. It'd be interesting to read an update on this in a year or two...

Picking pet food

Is expensive food better for your pet?

Not necessarily, some veterinarians say.

Consumer Reports has published a Q&A with animal experts about choosing the right pet food.

I always wondered if I should be feeding CeCe dry dog food that perhaps costs a little more. She eats Dog Chow and she's just fine. I'm glad vets agree that if she's happy and healthy with what she eats now, I shouldn't worry.

Check out the Q&A here.

The article will also appear in the magazine's March 2009 issue.

Rommel!

Joe should be sending me more photos, but here's another pic of Rommel:

Awwwww!

Foster families for pets!

Isn't this the cutest picture?

Our videographer Joe Paull took it for my story on foster families for pets. The big dog is a Tibetan mastiff mix named Rommel. The little one is a rat terrier mix named Phineas. This was taken at the Decker family home in Columbus. Through PAWS Humane, the family takes in and fosters itty-bitty puppies (Phineas is the foster...awwww!)

My story on foster pets ran in today's paper. You can check it out online here.

Also, Joe took some video of my interviews with the Deckers as well as Diane Fuller, a cat foster. Check it out at www.ledger-enquirer.com (the videos section.)

I'm going to ask Joe to send me more pictures he took during my interview at the Deckers', so stay tuned! I'll post them soon.

Cloning beloved pets

Have y'all heard about the Florida couple who got their yellow Lab cloned in South Korea?

The original dog, who died last year, was named Sir Lancelot. Their clone is named Sir Lancelot Encore.

Read the full story here.

The whole idea of cloning pets freaks me out a little. I think it's wrong - from a moral perspective.

But besides that...some people who do it, like the couple in the article, say it's because they miss their old pet: their physical presence, their cute face, their loving personality.

But if cloning doesn't guarantee the pet will act the same way, why do it?

Isn't a pet's personality the reason why we really love them?

CeCe, my Boston terrier, is a cutie. But what I really love about her is her unique mannerisms: how she cocks her head to the side, how she puts her nose under my hand when she wants me to pet her.

Sorry, but a clone can't do that exactly the way she does.

So what do you think of this?

Ban pit bulls as family pets?

I feel so bad for pit bulls.

Of all the dog breeds out there, they are probably the ones that receive the most discrimination.

(Undeservingly, of course.)

Here is a great column from NBCPhiladelphia.com about the movement to ban these dogs as family pets.

I totally agree with the writer (she says cities shouldn't ban them.) For the cities that are doing this...their reasoning is totally flawed. The pits are not to blame, it's the heartless owners who train them to growl, bite, attack, etc. for dog fights.

I recently had a conversation with a staffer at PAWS Humane who said dog fights definitely happen in the Columbus area...and many times, people will come in looking to adopt a pit bull. Staffers usually can tell right off the bat what their intentions are and don't adopt them out, she said.

Good. I wonder how those people would feel if they had to fend for their lives in a ring...with a pit bull they've trained to fight.

New feline friend license plate

A while back, I posted something about voting for Georgia's newest animal license plate. If you remember, the winning plate featured a black and white kitty.

Anyway, it's available for sale now. Check it out on the Georgia Department of Agriculture's Web site: www.agr.georgia.gov.

Two February events

Want to support animals - and their rights?

Here are two upcoming local events where you can do that:

1) Chili's is holding PAWS Humane Day on Monday, Feb. 9. Between 11:30 a.m. and 9:30 p.m., if you eat at Chili's in Columbus (5555 Whittlesey Blvd. in Columbus Park Crossing), the restaurant will donate 10 percent of your bill to PAWS Humane. You MUST bring in the Chili's/PAWS Humane flyer, which is available at the new PAWS Humane center near Cooper Creek Park. Forget the flyer and they won't donate the 10 percent! :(

2) Cheryl McAuliffe, the Georgia director of the Humane Society of the United States, will be in town to talk about getting better animal protection legislation in our state. She'll be at the Macon Road Columbus Public Library (CB&T Room) Saturday, Feb. 14 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Cheryl says these events are like "condensed workshops on how to lobby for better animal protection laws." I believe she'll touch upon antifreeze safety laws during her talk. Check out the national Humane Society at www.hsus.org.

Top 10 dogs of 2008

The American Kennel Club released the top 10 most popular dogs in the U.S. in 2008.

Think yours made the list?

Check it out here:

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/28695663/

I'm not surprised Yorkies and Shih-Tzus made the list. Too bad Boston terriers didn't make the cut (sorry, CeCe!)

Recall: Grreat Choice Dog Biscuits

Just wanted to spread the word that PetSmart has voluntarily pulled Grreat Choice Dog Biscuits off shelves as the U.S. Drug and Food Administration investigates for possible salmonella contamination of peanut butter and paste.

PetSmart says there have been no reported cases they're aware of and they're doing this recall as a precaution.

Here's a list of applicable items from CNN Money:

The recalled products include only the following types of Grreat Choice Dog Biscuits sold between Aug. 21, 2008 and Jan. 19, 2009:

• Small Assorted 32 oz., UPC 73725702900

• Small/Medium Assorted 4 lb., UPC 73725700601

• Small/Medium Assorted 8 lb., UPC 73725700605

• Small/Medium Assorted 10 lb., UPC 73725702755

• Large Assorted 8 lb., UPC 73725700638

• Extra Large Assorted 8 lb., UPC 73725700779

• Peanut Butter 4 lb., UPC 73725700766

Read CNN Money's full article here.

Be careful out there, guys!

New parents hating their pets?

Hey everyone!

Just got back from a long birthday weekend in Atlanta. My girlfriends from California came to visit, and CeCe got to go to one of her favorite places, the farm!

Anyway, check out this column I found today from the San Francisco Chronicle. It's about the "epidemic" of new parents who start to hate their own pets (and eventually get rid of them) after a baby is born.

Have any of y'all ever seen this before?

A friend once told me a story of another friend who got rid of their Golden Retriever after their baby began crawling. The friend said the dog was shedding too much and she didn't want the baby getting into all the dog hair.

I have no kids so I've never been in the situation before. But it just seems really extreme - to go from loving on your dog to kicking him/her out.

Have any of you pet owners ever been in this situation? How did you work it out so both baby and doggy could co-habitate? Or was there another solution?

This is crazy...

A cross-dressing veterinarian in south Jersey is being held in jail for allegedly practicing without a license and duping dozens of pet owners.

Sound crazy to you?

Read the rest of the story here.

Seriously, what will these con men (or women) think of next?

Pets for free?

On Jan. 24, 300 animals shelters across the country are giving away a limited number of free pets as part of Change a Pet's Life Day.

I checked the list here and no local shelter is participating, but shelters in places as close as Montogomery and Milledgeville are.

Read the USA Today article here.

I can understand why there would be concerns about giving pets away. Adoptive parents may think because they didn't pay for the pet, it isn't highly valuable.

This reminds me of the classified ad the Muscogee County Humane Society usually runs in the pets section of the paper. It starts off with "What's Free?" and mentions the costs associated with accepting a free pet. Of course, a pet isn't free - having a pet means vet bills, food, shelter, toys and other pet costs...and handling that for the pet's whole life.

This sounds like a pretty cool program for people who don't want to pay a fee for an adopted dog, but I hope adoptive parents realize a shelter fee is just ONE of the things they must pay in a dog's lifetime.

Labradoodle or Portuguese water dog?

So what do y'all think? The Obamas are close to picking a dog for Malia and Sasha. (Check out the Chicago Tribune article here.) They're choosing between a labradoodle (top photo) and Portuguese water dog (bottom photo.) Personally, I like the Portuguese water dog. (Apparently the AKC is throwing its support behind that choice as well...check out the article here.) The coolest part about the Obamas' search is that they're looking to rescue a pup from an animal shelter (yay!)

Click here for more 411 on the Portuguese water dog breed.

Labradoodles - a cross between a labrador and poodle - have not been recognized as an actual breed. Click here for more 411 on them.

Working dogs

My friend Reggie recently told me about a very cool thing PAWS Humane is doing for her teen son Jeffrey.

PAWS has sponsored a Labradoodle named Sarah to be trained as a therapy working dog. Once Sarah completes her training, she'll go home with Jeffrey and become his "constant companion."

Here are a few photos Reggie sent me:

I don't think this is an established program at the center but hopefully if things work out with Jeffrey and Sarah, more pets can be trained to pair up with kids who need a helpful friend.

Holy matrimony & Fido

So over the holidays, my big sister Katrina broke some big news: she got engaged! Aaand...I am going to be the maid of honor!

I didn't realize planning a wedding takes so much work. She has already told me "I better do research on the duties of a maid of honor."

I asked her if she had a flower girl already because I had someone in mind (CeCe.) She promptly said the spot was already filled and my girl (CeCe) was not welcome.

Darn!

I've totally seen dogs participate in weddings...at least, on TV. On my wedding day I hope CeCe will be tame enough to walk down the aisle with a basket of flowers in her mouth.

Have any of your pets participated in your wedding? Or if you are not yet married, do you plan on letting Fido participate in your big day?

I found this cool article on wikiHow on how to include a pet in your wedding. Check it out here.

New Year's resolutions

GREETINGS! After a wonderful week with the bf in North Carolina, I am back in Columbus! It's a new year, I've taken on a new look (I have bangs now!) and I have some new goals...well, sorta.

Every new year, I always make the resolution to start exercising regularly. It works...for about two months. Then I stop, then I start again, then I stop, then I start again.

Does this sound like you too? Well, perhaps we can get the dogs involved this year.

Here's an article on ways you can involve Fifi in your resolutions to lose weight/eat healthier/exercise more/etc.