Pet Christmas Shopping Survey
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Pet Supplies Plus, the nation's third largest pet retail chain, published the result of a poll about it's shoppers' Christmas gift-giving habits for pets.
It asked its shoppers whether they liked giving gifts to their pets more than they liked gift giving for humans.
- 93% said it's more fun to shop for their pets than human relatives
- 95% said it's easier to find the right gifts for pets, versus humans
- 26% said they spend more on their pets than human relatives
- 78% said they include their pets in their holiday cards
I think that last one means whether or not they're pets "sign their names" on cards.
It kinda goes along with other studies showing that pets provide an element of stress-free relationship for their owners.
Labels: Christmas, Dog Ownership
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One Nation Under Dog
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
The acrylic painting to the right is entitled, "One Nation Under Dog" and is the work of a pop-artist, Nathan James.
He painted it after hearing so much news about animal abuse, particularly that of Michael Vick and his dog fighting exploits. The dog in the painting is that of a pit bull, which James meant to portray as a gentle, and sophisticated breed...
The painting, reminiscent of monastery icon artwork, depicts a saintly mutt deep in reflection, adorned with a glowing halo, sacred bone, and holy garb. ... I think we would all be much better off if more people possessed the same innocence and love that I often see in dogs.
Of course, there's the long standing joke that "God spelled backwards is dog", which James' title seems to play on.
But then again, if the evolutionary scale had wolves evolving into intelligent beings with "opposable dew claws", and monkeys simply remained as monkeys, then it's likely they would be keeping monkeys as pets, and wishing they were more like us.
I agree with him though, there is so much unconditional love being wasted these days. I mean, we've got people claiming to "humanely euthanize" in the name of Love.
Visit One Nation Under Dog online...
http://www.poparf.com/bp_nation_under_dog.htmlLabels: Dog Paintings
3 comments | | Perma Link
K9 Genetics - DNA-Based Dieting for Dogs
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
K9 Genetics Corporation, based in Orange County, CA, announced that they're now accepting a limited number of pre-orders for what they're billing as the "World's first completely personalized diets for dogs".
The way it works is that you submit a sample of your dog's DNA, and a questionnaire asking you about your dog's breed, age, and weight, and K9 Genetics will run an analysis on the two to figure out the exact diet your dog should be on.
The idea is to identify potential diseases your dog is susceptible to, such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and then come up with a meal that doesn't wake these monsters from their sleep.
They've gone on to establish this as a new science called, "Nutrigenomics".
I'm curious to know how much of the diet plan is based on the DNA itself, versus the questionnaire you provide. DNA is just so "sexy" these days, that people seem to be forking over all kinds of money to take advantage of a variety of services. Obviously, there is a market for this kind of stuff.
K9 Genetics is only accepting reservations for 1,000 personalized diets at this time. So, you better take advantage now. I mean, you don't want to be on the outside looking in, right?
Visit K9 Genetics online at...
http://www.K9Genetics.comLabels: DNA Testing, Dog Food
4 comments | | Perma Link
Bandabling - Snap on Doggie Bandanas
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Bandabling is the name of a bandana for dogs that attach with a snap, instead of having to tie them, or rip them apart with velcro.
They offer a wide variety of designs, trims, and charms. If you want to deck out your dog with a bandana, Bandabling seems to offer a lot of custom choices.
They sell their products through several pet boutiques across the country, as well as online retailers.
Browse their collection and their retailer directory online...
http://www.bandabling.comLabels: Dog Apparel
0 comments | | Perma Link
DNA Disease Testing for Dogs
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
A new DNA testing kit that screens pets for dozens of inherited diseases is now available from a company called, PinPoint DNA Technologies, Inc.
Pawsitive I.D. identifies more than two dozen hereditary diseases, including Progressive Retinal Atrophy and Von Willebrand Disease.
The at-home test also reveals a pet's DNA fingerprint, a unique genetic code that never changes, giving owners a permanent and positive form of identification.
The Pawsitive I.D. kit contains a profile form with customer ID number and sterile cheek swabs. Owners simply fill out the profile, and rub the swab against the inside of their pet's cheek for about 10 seconds, then mail it out with the included postage paid envelope.
Pawsitive ID uses a complex system of DNA Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (pronounced SNiPs) to test for your pet's susceptibility to certain genetic diseases. The cheek samples are examined by lab professionals who analyze selected regions of the chromosomes in the DNA. Within the regions, scientists can identify an individual within a species and compare the genotypes to identify the potential for genetic disorders.
In about two weeks you get the results back. It contains a certificate with DNA disease and trait screening information as well as fingerprint data. An interpretive guide explains the results and what action should be taken if a positive or carrier results is listed.
Pawsitive I.D. keeps a duplicate certificate for up to 15 years, in a secure database, for owners in case their pet becomes lost or legal ownership needs to be proven.
"If a genetic disorder is identified early it could provide effective cost savings for veterinary treatments and save the pet's life," says Rick Dobbins, CEO of PinPoint DNA Technologies, Inc.
The kit retails for $49.95. Bulk pricing is available for breeders.
For more information, visit Petgadgets.com...
http://www.petgadgets.comLabels: DNA Testing
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Circuit City Firedog Needs a New Dog
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Do you think your dog has what it takes to be the next "Firedog"?
Firedog is the mascot of Circuit City's technology services team. They've launched a promotion with Kodak, to find a dog to star in their upcoming television commercial.
All you have to do is upload a photo of your dog at this website...
http://kodak.eprize.net/firedogcontest/The grand prize winning dog will have the chance to star in a Firedog TV commercial along with other prizes, including:
- A $50,000 donation to your local humane society
- KODAK EASYSHARE V1253 HD Digital Zoom Camera
- KODAK EASYSHARE HDTV Camera Dock
Submissions will be accepted through December 8th.
Labels: Contests
0 comments | | Perma Link
Dogs for Rent
Monday, November 26, 2007
I guess in Japan, you can just rent a dog, instead of buying one.
The Telegraph, a British newspaper, lists the prices of pet rentals, from dogs, to cats, hamsters, turtles, and others.
You can rent a dog for a day, for about $97.56 USD, or for a week for $371.69...
Customers are provided with a small bag containing cleaning materials for cleaning up dog mess, as well as a drinking bowl for water. All food fed to the animals must be purchased from the store.
I guess it's one way to get some quick friendship without the committment.
Source:
The TelegraphLabels: Pet Rentals
2 comments | | Perma Link
Tree-Gnawing Dog Busted in Altoona, PA
Monday, November 26, 2007
If you allow your dog to run loose in Altoona, Pennsylvania, and that dog happens to gnaw on a tree, it'll cost you $3,100.00 in fines.
That's what happened to Tyler Port, who happens to own a dog that really likes trees...
This summer, Tyler Port allowed his dog, Rossman, to run loose in a park. The dog apparently had a habit of chewing bark off trees, and Port was cited for failure to keep the dog under control.
The city fined him $3,100.00 for damage to trees.
Source:
Associated PressLabels: Pennsylvania Dog Laws
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Wag Hotels - Hilton for Dogs
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Wag Hotels is a basically a doggie day care and kenneling facility, except it plays up the posh angle.
Offering a variety of accomodations from small rooms to large suites, Wag Hotels takes the concept of "two hots and a cot" and stretches it out to full service luxury.
There's plenty of stuff to do at a Wag, from swimming in the pool, getting a massage, or joining in on a playgroup. And if "Mr. Barky Butt Schnauzer" doesn't want to socialize, he can just sit in his room and watch television.
Wag Hotels are located in California, with hotels in Sacamento and San Francisco, and with future hotels on the way in Sunnyvale and SoCal.
Visit Wag Hotels online...
http://www.waghotel.comLabels: Dog Daycare
1 comments | | Perma Link
Calming Dog Chews from Pet Naturals
Monday, November 19, 2007
Pet Naturals of Vermont is coming out with a chewable form of its Calming Formula for Dogs.
The Supplement is said to help alleviate anxiety related behavior problems in dogs without affecting their personality or energy level. Can be used to reduce stress from thunderstorms, car, or plane travel.
It is sold in a 21-count, resealable pouch priced at $4.49.
Ingredients: Thiamin; L-Theanine; Lecithin; Calming Decapeptide; Chicken Liver Flavor; Corn Oil; Fish Oil; Glycerin; Natural Mixed Tocopherols; Propionic Acid; Soy Lecithin; Sursweet; Whey; Brewer's Yeast
It's not yet available from the company's website, however. Probably soon though.
http://www.petnaturals.comLabels: Nutritional Supplements
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Sittin Pretty Natural Dog Bakery
Monday, November 19, 2007
Sittin Pretty Natural Dog Bakery is a new brand into the world of all-natural dog treats.
The Tustin, CA-based business bakes their treats on location, using natural and organic ingredients.
Their Turkey Breast Sticks are described as being made from free range California turkey breast and giblets.
Check out their entire line of products...
http://www.sittinprettynaturaldogbakery.comLabels: Dog Treats
0 comments | | Perma Link
Zuke's Jerky Naturals - New Formulation
Monday, November 19, 2007
Performance Pet Nutrition, of Durango, CO, has relaunched their line of "Jerky Naturals" dog treats with a new formulation.
Now, the treats are made with blueberries, flax seed, carrots, and apples. They continue to be made with rice. Varieties still include Salmon, Beef, and Lamb.
The treats are also free of wheat, corn and soy.
You can buy them online from the company's website...
http://www.zukes.comLabels: Dog Treats
0 comments | | Perma Link
LostPetCollar.com - New Lost Pet Tracking Service
Friday, November 16, 2007
LostPetCollar.com is the newest web-based pet-tracking service, featuring a pet collar with an ID#.
You purchase the pet collar from LostPetCollar.com, and replace your dog's existing collar with it. The collar has the LostPetCollar website address printed on it.
So when someone finds your lost Buddy, they're supposed to see the website address, and punch in the ID#, to find out who it belongs to.
The website also publishes news stories about how microchips are causing cancer in dogs.
The collar seems like an idea, but I'm not sure how it's better than just a dog tag with my cell phone number on it. But there's no problem with having more solutions at our disposal.
Visit LostPetCollar.com at...
http://www.lostpetcollar.comLabels: Lost Pet Tracking
5 comments | | Perma Link
Woolite Pet Oxygen Carpet Cleaner
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Bissell Homecare Inc. recently relaunched its "Woolite Pet Oxygen" carpet cleaner claiming to come in a new fresh scent.
Woolite Pet Oxygen's claim to fame is that it's particularly effective on cleaning barf stains.
Visit Woolite Pet Oxygen at...
http://www.woolitecarpet.comLabels: Pet Carpet Cleaners
2 comments | | Perma Link
Purina Carvers - Dog Treats
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Nestle Purina PetCare Co. recently launched a new line of dog treats called, "Purina Carvers", meant to mimic slices of hand-carved meat.
The product claims to contain over 80% "real chicken". The package's ingredients list doesn't specify what type of chiken meat though it says it contains no by-products.
The best I can tell, it appears to be the same as, or similar to, Purina's "Cheweez Carvers" dog treats. Cheweez claims a higher 85% "real chicken" content.
The guaranteed analysis reads...
Crude Protein (min.) 38.0%
Crude Fat (min.) 4.0%
Crude Fiber (max.) 3.0%
Moisture (max.) 28.0%
The Purina Carvers treats comes in a 3.5 oz. (99g) resealable pouch, with a suggested retail price of $2.29 each.
Labels: Dog Treats
0 comments | | Perma Link
Dog Pain - How to Know
Thursday, November 15, 2007
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) published in its Sep/Oct 2007 Journal a guide for pet owners and veterinarians on how to detect if your dog or cat is feeling pain.
The guide says that animals have an instinct to hide their pain so as to protect themselves from predators. If you don't know if Fifi's got a stabbing pain in her belly, a minor problem can grow into a big one.
You can download the 14-page PDF file here...
http://www.aahanet.org/..../PainManagementGuidelines.pdfIt's not light reading however. I can't imagine this was written for pet owners, more like veterinarians exclusively.
However, the AAHA did provide from some very quick "tell-tail" signs to know if a problem might exist...
Pet owners should contact their veterinarian if they observe:
- Abnormal chewing habits
- Drastic weight gain or loss
- Avoidance of affection or handling
- Decreased movement and exercise
- Excessively licking or biting itself
- Uncharacteristic "Accidents"
These signs can help uncover underlying medical issues and pain.
Of course, I look at that list and think, "Duh!". If you know your dog, you'll always know when something's not right.
The main thing is taking action immediately.
Consider that dogs get aches and pains just like people, and just like people, they may shrug these off and act like they're ok when you're giving them attention. It's when you're not giving them attention that they show their true selves.
Labels: Dog Health, Dog Pain
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Dog Tethering May Become Illegal in Orange County, NC
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
The Board of Commissioners in Orange County, North Carolina, are considering a proposal to make dog tethering illegal.
The News & Observer, a local newspaper,
reports that an ordinance is likely to be adopted, making exceptions in few cases...
The advisory board's recommendation includes an exemption for certain activities, including hunting, for up to seven days. It also would allow for tethering a dog for up to three hours a day, which advisory board chairwoman Kris Bergstrand called a compromise position.
There's no need for an anti-dog tethering law, because states already have laws against animal cruelty. County and City animal control departments simply need to enforce these animal cruelty laws by identifying dogs that are suffering injury or illness from tethering.
The problem starts with "ideology". That is, animal rights activists have a fundamental belief that any kind of tethering is "inhumane". Even if a tethered dog is sitting happily with food and water, they don't care. They just want to make everyone do as they say.
Unfortunately, they've raised the "public safety" card in a day and age where pitbull attacks are all over the news channels. Lawmakers are buying it because they're out of ideas on how to curb dog attacks.
Does anyone reading this think that by banning dog tethering, the number of dog attacks will come down?
Labels: Dog Tethering, North Carolina Dog Laws
6 comments | | Perma Link
Salmon Poisoning Disease in Dogs
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Recently, a 10-month old Yorkie was diagnosed with Salmon Poisoning Disease after ingesting raw fish from Lake Irvine in Orange County, California.
VCA Antech, Inc., which operates 375 animal hospitals across the United States, published the following article about Salmon Poisoning Disease so that dog owners can be better prepared to deal with it...
SPD is an acute, infectious disease that affects dogs, wolves, ferrets and foxes, when they ingest uncooked salmon, trout, steelhead, and similar freshwater fish. While the disease is typically more prevalent in the Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon and northern California), since the disease has surfaced locally from a dog ingesting raw fish from Lake Irvine. Pet owners in the greater Los Angeles area need to be aware of how dogs can contract this disease and what treatment is required to keep pets safe and healthy.
Symptoms of SPD include vomiting, loss of appetite, fever, diarrhea, weakness, swollen lymph nodes, and dehydration.
"Most people in this area are unfamiliar with the symptoms of this disease, which appear within five to seven days after eating infected raw fish. Left undiagnosed, SPD can be fatal within several weeks," explained Mike Moore, DVM, at VCA All-Care Animal Referral Center. "SPD is treatable if diagnosed quickly. If your dog has been around raw fish or you are unsure of what they have ingested and symptoms appear, consider SPD a possibility and see your veterinarian immediately for evaluation and treatment," he added.
The standard diagnosis for SPD is the presence of fluke ova, which are found through a fecal examination in the majority of cases. Left untreated, animals usually succumb due to dehydration, electrolyte and acid-base imbalances, and anemia. Therefore, general supportive therapy to maintain hydration and acid-base balance, while meeting nutritional requirements and controlling diarrhea, are essential. Treatment generally involves antibiotics and a "wormer," as well as intravenous fluids. Upon receiving treatment, most dogs show initial improvement within several days, but the course of antibiotic treatment usually lasts for three weeks.
While SPD symptoms can be confused with other gastrointestinal conditions, due to the serious nature of the disease, it is critical to obtain a timely diagnosis and as necessary, initiate supportive veterinary treatment to minimize the serious risks of this disease.
Labels: Dog Diseases
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Doggy Java - Coffee for Dogs
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Doggy Java takes the trendy concept of young bohemian unemployed-types enjoying some fairly-traded gourmet coffee at the local Ratbucks, and gives it to the dogs.
While Doggy Java is not "real" caffeinated coffee, it could very well be as far as your dog is concerned.
The beef flavored, liquid vitamin treat comes in a coffee bag, looks like coffee when mixed with water, is served in a specially designed Canine Cappuccino Cup and comes with a Bonescotti Biscuit.
The concept behind Doggy Java is to provide an alternate method of administering vitamins.
Mari Justin, creator of Doggy Java explains, "Vitamin pills can cost $40 to $50 dollars per month, and can be extremely difficult to get your dog to swallow. Doggy Java has created a fun new way for your pet to get its daily vitamins while enjoying a tasty treat."
The company sells Doggy Java separately, or in a combo pack with cup and bonescotti. You supply the rainbow-colored headsock and clip-on dreadlocks.
Visit Doggy Java online at...
http://www.doggyjava.com/Labels: Dog Vitamins, Strange Stuff
0 comments | | Perma Link
Indian Man Marries Dog
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
A man in southern India married a female dog as part of a cure for his physical maladies.
The groom, P. Selvakumar, is a 33 year old, who claims that he had stoned two dogs to death some 15 years ago. Since then, his conscience has become so stricken with grief and anxiety, that he claims to have lost use of his hands and legs, and has lost hearing in one ear.
Hindu tradition apparently says that such physical losses can be remedied by atoning for one's sins, in this case, marrying a dog.
The photo, however, shows him using his arms and hands. So, I'm not sure what's going on.
The Associated Press reports that it was a stray dog that got picked out to be the bride. She was bathed, prepped, and adorned with decorations, just like the real mccoy.
Source:
Associated PressLabels: Strange Stuff
2 comments | | Perma Link
The Perfect Pet Blanket
Monday, November 12, 2007
A company called Invisible Health, Inc. is marketing a pet blanket called, "Perfect Pet Blanket".
They say the reason why it's "perfect" is because it's designed to kill dust mites, bacteria, fungal spores, and other microscopic creatures. The blanket is specially coated with an EPA, FDA, and NASA tested and approved technology that disrupts the cell membranes of these tiny pests, killing them instantly.
The idea behind the coated blanket is reduce microbial pests that cause allergies, trigger asthma, or reduce dermatitis on pets. The company claims a 99.9% kill rate on these little buggers.
The company claims the coating is 100% safe, and is non-toxic and environmentally friendly, except for course when it comes to these microscopic creatures.
Invisible Health actually sent me one of their blankets to try. So far, my dogs seem to like it, just like any other of their blankets. I can't really tell if the microbes and bacteria are dying or not; I've yet to examine the carnage under a microscope.
Neither my wife nor I have asthma, nor do we have any allergy problems associated with our dogs, so it's hard for me tell if I feel any better as a result. Mia does have allergy problems, but it only seem to flare up when the winds start blowing. If this blanket is indeed reducing the microscopic life in our household, I'm sure we're all better off.
The blanket is soft to the touch. It has a feel reminiscent of polyester. There seems to be foam padding inside. I've laid the blanket over our dog's pet bed, which is located in my office, and is where they tend to lay, and I'm not getting any complaints out of them.
It can be machine washed, and tumbled dry, and won't lose its special coating.
The "Perfect Pet Blanket" comes in small, medium, and large sizes, with prices of $49.95, $59.95, and $69.95 respectively.
You can buy it online from the company's website...
http://www.invisiblehealth.netLabels: Pet-Blankets
0 comments | | Perma Link
African Puppy Scams
Thursday, November 08, 2007
A couple months ago, I posted an article here about
Online Puppy Scams.
I wanted to bring this issue back to the top, after someone posted the following comment to the above article...
I never knew about puppy scams until this week because it happen to me and know I'm tryin to make sure that everyone know about this woman that tried it on me! Her name(or so called)is Rev. Sister Melanie Green. She is claiming that she will send you a FREE puppy as long as you pay shipping and give a donation to AWWAH MOTHERLESS BABIES FOUNDATION in Cameroun. She told me that she had already paid for the puppies flight but when I called there was no such reservation. When I emailed her and told her that I checked she said that she needed a Western Union code before she would put the puppy on the flight. I put a hold on the western union money...THANK GOD!!! I called one more time to the airlines and they had no reservation but found out that there was a puppy put on board...so I went to dallas and to my suprise NO PUPPY!!! SO BEWARE!!!!
The so-called African Puppy Scam is real, as evidenced by this person.
In the navigation bar at the top of this website, I put a link for "Adopt a Dog". This link takes you to
PetFinder.com. PetFinder is a place you can go to adopt a puppy, without being scammed. The puppies there are from shelters and rescues in your local area.
If you're going to adopt a dog, adopt one from your local area so that you can see it in person, touch it, play with it, and know that you're not going to get scammed.
Labels: Puppy Scams
10 comments | | Perma Link
Cedar Flea and Tick Repellant
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Cedar is one of nature's insect repellants, and has been used for centuries, particularly for clothes storage.
Recently, it's been gaining popularity as a way to keep fleas and ticks away from pets. Popularity is growing because of other chemical solutions like Frontline and Advantix have been negatively portrayed in pet journals as shortening the lives of dogs.
Even solutions made from all natural ingredients, such as
Sentry Natural Defense, have produced a lot of negative comments from actual users.
A company called Cedarcide is benefitting from this turn of events, and offers a wide variety of solutions made from cedar oil. The cedar spray depicted above seems like a very practical solution. You can spray it on your dog, on their bedding, or inside their dog house...
http://www.cedarcidestore.comI haven't used any of their products, and am not endorsing them in any way. And they have not paid me for this mention either! I'm just passing it along.
But I do use stuff cedar shavings into our dogs' beds. The stuffing inside the bed is where fleas tend to lay their eggs. So basically, it forces fleas to lay their eggs elsewhere.
So far so good. Neither of my dogs have fleas or ticks, and I do check them every once in awhile.
If your dogs stay outside, you can also buy a cedar dog house, made by a company called Blythe Wood Works. Not only does it help keep fleas and ticks out, cedar wood is very durable, it won't warp and split like pine. And wood is also a natural insulator, keeping things quite warm inside. Here's their website...
http://www.blythewoodworks.com/Labels: Flea and Tick
2 comments | | Perma Link
Dog Wine Labels
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
It's said that the piece of printed paper that labels a bottle of wine is the most expensive part of the wine, which is why many wine connoisseurs become label collectors.
Critter Wines is a website that features an online library of wine labels themed after animals, and they have an extensive dog collection.
Here's a sample of cute and funny wine label names...
- Alex's Ruff Red
- Basset Blush
- Three Legged Red
- Merlot Over and Play Dead
See all the dog wine labels here...
http://www.critterwines.com/Dog.aspLabels: Strange Stuff
1 comments | | Perma Link
Irving, TX Bans Dog Tethering
Saturday, November 03, 2007
The Dallas Morning News reported yesterday that the Irving City Council approved an ordinance that bans the tethering of a dog, while unattended. The law seems to emphasize unattended tethering, suggesting that attended tethering is ok.
According to the Dallas Morning News...
Irving's ordinance goes beyond a state law that went into effect in September that limits the time dog owners can tether their pets to between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.
The report goes on to say that this law is "aligned with a growing national movement of dog lovers and lawmakers who believe tethering dogs can make them more aggressive".
I've stated before on this blog, that tethering alone, is not what makes dogs more aggressive. It's the lack of socialization.
That is, dogs that are tethered and left alone for several hours, or even days, will become defensive and dangerous if approached. But if the owner socialized the dog, the dog would remain calm,
even while tethered. A tethered dog can be a calm dog if socialized.
This is ideology turning into law. There is a
perception that tethering a dog is tantamount to suffering. Tethering alone hasn't caused any form suffering. It was the lack of food and water, lack of dry bedding, a collar too tight, lack of veterinary care, that created the suffering.
Source:
Dallas Morning NewsLabels: Dog Tethering, Texas Dog Laws
1 comments | | Perma Link
Australian Lawmaker Proposes Pet Sales Ban
Friday, November 02, 2007
Clover Moore, a legislator in New South Wales, a state of Australia, has proposed new legislation to ban the sales of any animals from pet stores.
The bill has motivated the Pet Industry Association of Australia (PIAA) to fight.
"The Bill blatantly discriminates against highly visible and increasingly regulated pet store retailers as a legitimate place to sell pets", says Colin Bransgrove, CEO of the PIAA. "Pet shops account for an estimated 6% of pet sales in Australia while unregulated internet; classified and market pet sales proliferate. The unregulated market is where government should be putting its energy." he said.
Not just pet sales, but this bill also makes it illegal to give pets as gifts.
Ms. Moore explained that too many people purchase animals from pet stores as impulse buys, without giving a lot of thought into the lifelong care that animals need. However, Brangrove countered that puppies sold through pet stores costs between $500 - $1,500 each, hardly making them an impulse buy.
I have to agree with the PIAA that pet shops are hardly the problem. It's the classified ads. While puppy mills certainly do use some pet shops as their outlets, the bulk of these animals are sold through cheaper avenues, particularly newspapers. Newspapers don't screen breeders to figure out who's ethical. Instead they shift the burden to the reader, telling them to figure out who to trust. These days, newspapers are desperate to boost their classified sales.
But the REAL problem is lack of law enforcement. There already are laws against animal cruelty, and there are plenty of laws to put puppy mills out of business. It's just that government can't afford to track them down and prosecute their cases. Legislators prefer to spend money on entitlement programs instead of going after the bad guys. They opt for the cheaper solution, putting the burden on law abiding citizens.
For more information, visit...
http://www.petnews.com.au/Labels: Australia Dog Laws
1 comments | | Perma Link
Dog Performs Heimlich Maneuver on Owner
Friday, November 02, 2007
Toby the Golden Retriever was honored by the ASPCA has the "Dog of the Year" for performing the Heimlich Maneuver on his owner, saving her life.
When Debbie Parkhurst choked on a piece of apple at her Maryland home, her dog jumped in, landing hard on her chest and forcing the morsel to pop out of her throat.
Parkhurst, chalked it up to divine intervention, perhaps suggesting that God send down a grace of intelligence into Toby, landing down on his owner's chest, similar to what Hulk Hogan might do in a professional wrestling match.
You can read more about Toby's heroics on CNN...
http://us.cnn.com/2007/US/11/02/animal.heroes.ap/index.htmlLabels: Golden Retrievers, Strange Stuff
1 comments | | Perma Link
Portable Pet Stain Cleaner
Friday, November 02, 2007
Ever since Dysan came out with the vacuum cleaner specifically for pets, it seems like every other carpet cleaning manufacturer is jumping on the bandwagon.
Dirt Devil has a portable carpet cleaner called, "Purpose for Pets Portable Extractor" that ought to make pee-pee patrol a little bit easier. The small portable design allows you make cleanings more convenient. No more having to haul out that big carpet cleaner.
It comes with a blacklight tool to illuminate the doggie stains.
Source:
PetGadgets.comLabels: Pet Carpet Cleaners
0 comments | | Perma Link
Do Something! For Dogs
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Do Something! is a non-profit organization dedicated to motivating young persons into doing something good for their community.
Recently they teamed up with Del Monte Foods to launch a program called, "Do Something Good for You", which donates grant money of $2,500.00 to people wanting to improve or promote healthy lifestyles for their community.
It's open to anyone aged 26 years or younger, and to those living anywhere in the United States or Canada.
Health-concious projects may include...
- Starting or improving a dog park
- Helping obese dogs get fit and trim
- Building dog houses for outdoor dogs in Winter months
All you have to do to get the money is to write an essay explaining your goals.
The deadline for submissions is November 9th, 2007.
For more information, visit online...
http://www.dosomething.org/node/36048Labels: Dog-Charities
0 comments | | Perma Link
Funagle is a Board Game You Play with Your Dog
Thursday, November 01, 2007
A Portland, OR-based company called Darf, Inc. recently launched a new board game that you play with your dog.
Funagle let's people match wits with friends and family to see who is best at getting their dog to complete activities like the Moonwalk, The Wave and the Hollywood Kiss.
Players have one minute to "funagle" their dog into performing tasks on the game board's tags. Players can use their voice, treats and gestures to get their dog to complete the activity and earn the tag. Collect the most tags, and win the game.
It's like a way to teach the fundamentals of dog training, but through a board game. With a little encouragement, instruction and some treats, dogs and their owenrs become more self-confident, while relishing some laughter with friends and family.
Funagle can be played by two to four people and one to four dogs. The game comes with a board, 50 tags, a die, four bone-shaped carabiners (to hold the tags) and a sand timer. The game is available at select dog boutiques, pet stores, doggy day cares, game stores, gift stores and from Funagle's website.
Visit Funagle online at...
http://www.darfinc.com/Labels: Dog-Games
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Pet Health Network Takes Vet Clinics into the Digital Age
Thursday, November 01, 2007
A company called Pet Health Network sells these veterinary information monitors to vet clinics across the United States, allowing vets and their clients to discuss pet health in a new way.
The monitor hangs on the wall, and is connected to a central computer inside the vet's office.
The system contains a digital library of animal health information, with 3D models, photos, and videos. Instead of trying to explain verbally to pet owners about the anatomy of a dog's hip, the PHN monitor will show it to them in sharp detail.
Clients can compare between "sick" and "healthy" images, and review homecare instructional videos.
The network also stores each pet's health history, and can be e-mailed to the client's home.
The system also offers pet trivia entertainment while clients wait.
Learn more about Pet Health Network online...
http://www.pethealthnetwork.netYou can also read about them in the Portland Press Herald...
http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/story.php?id=143003&ac=PHbizLabels: Information-Technology
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Classy Custom Pet Doors
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Classy Custom is a brand of pet doors that claims to cater to pet owners who love their pets and their homes.
The pet doors offer high quality construction and design, with dead-bolt locks, weather tight silicone seals, and stainless steel materials.
They offer an assortment of customization features from a selection of colors, frames, and matching mats.
If you already have a pet door, Classy Custom is compatible with the rough-openings of other leader brands, like Petsafe, Staywell and Ideal, making it easy to replace.
Visit Classy Custom online at...
http://www.classycustom.comLabels: Pet-Doors
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