Pet News, Views, and Animal Stories

NEWSBRIEFS: Gorilla Turns 55; Iguanas, Sea Lions Killed

Fri, 09 May 2008 17:35:49 +0000

SECAUCUS, N.J. – Below is a look at some noteworthy stories from the animal kingdom this week.… full story

Discussion

Neglected Tiger Ranch Cats On The Mend

Fri, 09 May 2008 14:34:19 +0000

CLARION, Pa. -- Some 260 surviving cats rescued about two months ago from a disease-ridden, would-be animal sanctuary are displaying strong recovery signs, according to the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.… full story

Discussion

I'm glad they had a place to take them without risk of infecting healthy cats. How did the woman tak… (by Darra E. (Darra))

I'm so glad to hear that these cats are making a rebound! I hope that they can be reunited with own… (by Melody (MelodyJ))

It is a shame that so many died before they could get the kind of care they need. It sounds l… (by ourstaff)

According to the receipt left at Tiger Ranch, some 360 cats were seized. And why did PSCPA close 5 … (by Pat S. (PatSphar))

It's hard to see how the former owner of the Tiger Ranch can plead not guilty, when 380 cats were fo… (by Teresa C. (IResQK9sNKy))

Lending a Helping Paw: Dogs Better Students' Reading

Fri, 09 May 2008 08:59:35 +0000

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- “I’m reading magic schoolbus in a beehive,” said Jerred Lakey, a third grader at Bond Mill Elementary School. He’s part of a program that’s helping kids like him learn to read better. … full story

Discussion

This is sooooo cool. And it does wonders for the kids. A quick example from our library in Peters T… (by LBC)

This is absolutely wonderful. Animals have a way of bringing out a person's best, just the way they… (by Christine (kikgirl2))

FANTASIC! This sounds like a wonderful program. I hope that this catches on, and MAYBE, they will tr… (by Rachel E. (Ladybug8))

What an inspiring idea !!!! I volunteered in our Public School System,and people would be shoc… (by 3devinecats)

That was really sweet! (by 3devinecats)

Fewer Honey Bees Hurts Haagen-Daz

Thu, 08 May 2008 19:26:18 +0000

SAN FRANCISCO –- The number of commercially managed honey bee hives in the nation dropped 36.1 percent since last year, falling victim to new diseases, pesticide drift and parasites, according to the Apiary Inspectors of America, who promote better beekeeping conditions in North America.… full story

Discussion

Isn't it amazing to think about how one little creature impacts our greater ecology. (by Beagle Mutz (beaglemutz))

Bees not only effect Haagen - Daz, but many other things, like crops, honey production, pollenation … (by Rachel E. (Ladybug8))

It isn't looking good in NY. A friend of mine lost her entire hive, and she has said that many in th… (by Beth M. (bandcman))

You are right about the whole range of products suffering. Most folks don't think about it, but mayb… (by betty p. (peytonplace2001))

To some, this whole story with fewer bees might sound funny, but it is not. This is really serious. … (by betty p. (peytonplace2001))

Gibson, World’s Tallest Dog, Pens Children’s Book

Thu, 08 May 2008 14:28:24 +0000

GRASS VALLEY, Calif. –- At seven-foot-six inches long when standing on his hind legs, Gibson is the world’s tallest dog, and possibly its best known, but the harlequin Great Dane had far more humble beginnings.… full story

Discussion

Not happy that she breeds and has a stud service. Even pure breeds wind up in a shelter. Maybe she s… (by cathy l. (cathyleistikow))

I loved the story about Gibson and his exploits. Now for what I didn't like. I wish … (by Beaglepawz)

It's she - not he and Gibson has been neutered. I doubt that he will be doing much in the way of bre… (by Bill G. (1OldGuy))

The story states that even though she is a breeder, Gibson has been neutered and does not breed. (by Melody (MelodyJ))

I hate it when they give measurements when the dog is standing on its hind legs. That's not how you… (by danewillow)

Goat, Owner Share In New Leg

Thu, 08 May 2008 09:18:09 +0000

WOODSTOCK, N.Y. – Brooklyn is one of the last places you’d expect to find a male goat wandering the streets, but after being found there originally earmarked as food, Albie is now instead part of a loving home.… full story

Discussion

I think it is neat that not only the goat is being helped, but that people were willing to try to he… (by Lisa (Puparazzi))

I love it when Zootoo puts up heartwarming stories. It seems that these two were meant to find each… (by Beaglepawz)

This story was both happy and sad at the same time. I'm so happy that Albie was saved ,and tha… (by 3devinecats)

You've made a great point. We do live in a world where perfection is coveted and that's so sad. We… (by Melody (MelodyJ))

Isn't it so amazing how one person's situation, was used for good later on to help an animal in a si… (by Rachel E. (Ladybug8))

HSUS Uncovers More Downer Cows

Wed, 07 May 2008 18:39:04 +0000

SECAUCUS, N.J. -- The Humane Society of the United States released video footage today of sick and injured livestock the organization says were mistreated at auction sites and stockyards where cattle are sold for slaughter.… full story

Discussion

What do you mean, "Just cows?" In some countries cows are worshiped! They provide us w/ mo… (by Sarah B. (sbutler1976))

the real shame should be on those who arent doing the right thing for whatever reason they think to … (by Michael (Panther1))

*****five stars to HSUS-keep up the good work (by LINDA421419 B. (linda421419))

Thank goodness for the HSUS's determination and persistance in this case. Otherwise, who knows what … (by Rachel E. (Ladybug8))

GO VEGGIE! ~ no worries! (by Tracy Moser Re Pets (tracyatouterloop))

Settlement For Woman Who Dyed Poodle Pink

Wed, 07 May 2008 13:10:11 +0000

Boulder, Colo. –- Joy Douglas’ practice of dying her poodle pink appears to have itself died.… full story

Discussion

WOW, this "pink" story is getting people to see "red" !! Personally, I treat my … (by deedee)

The law is still on the books, and until it is taken off, there are consequences for not following i… (by Karen A. (kehala))

Die your own hair pink to mae the statement and leave the pooch alone! Beet Juce or cool a… (by Devon W. (DEW3160))

Actually my dogs are quite clear on what foods they like, what treats they like and each does show a… (by Beagle Mutz (beaglemutz))

I agree. Seriously, would we feel the same if Paris Hilton had done it? (by Beagle Mutz (beaglemutz))

Canine Amputee Makes Prosthetic History

Wed, 07 May 2008 09:59:10 +0000

FT. COLLINS, Colo. –- A dog found hobbling in the Kuwaiti desert is expected to become the first to receive an experimental prosthesis that could eventually help other dogs.… full story

Discussion

I am sickened by the thought of the abuse, BUT absolutely thrilled with ANY medical advancements for… (by deedee)

I love that the dog got adopted! I hope they do a update on theis story to see how the new leg does… (by Tracy Moser Re Pets (tracyatouterloop))

I think its good that they are doing that for the dog. I'm sure the dog would love to be able to run… (by maryannrohrabaugh)

This poor puppy has been through so much. I'm glad that she was found by a rescue group and that sh… (by Divaspaw)

My clinic has worked with smaller dogs and prosthetic limbs before but this is a real breakthrough. … (by Gizmokat75)

Pet Seat Belt Law Passes Cali Assembly

Tue, 06 May 2008 18:46:37 +0000

SACRAMENTO, Calif. –- A proposed law aimed at banning motorists from keeping pets on their laps while driving passed the Assembly Monday.… full story

Discussion

Renee, Most autoparts stores and Walmart like stores carry an inexpensive device design… (by Brea (Brea1))

THEN GET TICKETED AND PAY A WHOPPING FINE. What will happen to your dog if you are in… (by Esther S. (GarisMom))

Without there intervention, people will just keep doing it. It is not just your choice, you are put… (by Shannon (apegirl))

I think this is a law that is much needed in EVERY state. Pets shouldn't be in your lap whe your dri… (by Rachel E. (Ladybug8))

I totally agree with this. People need to take care of their animals. I hate seeing pets hanging t… (by Maria (acedogg2001))

Trio Nabbed Springing Impounded Dog For Funeral

Tue, 06 May 2008 14:27:01 +0000

WILSON, Okla. –- When there’s only one police officer on duty in this town of about 1,800, and he happens to catch your group red handed, allegedly trying to bust a dog out of the city pound, you know it’s just not your day.… full story

Discussion

Rumors and misinformation can fly around pretty fast in small towns! Fortunately so does caring abo… (by Karen A. (kehala))

Well - here is the perfect opportunity for a little compassion and the potential for a real learning… (by Bill G. (1OldGuy))

I hate that all this time the dog is in a shelter instead of a home! (by Tracy Moser Re Pets (tracyatouterloop))

How I wish we had that "no dogs tied up" policy in our city. Everyday, on the way to my ki… (by janette48)

WHERE is this dog, THere has GOT to be someone that can do something about this!!!!! Can you PLEASE… (by Tracy Moser Re Pets (tracyatouterloop))

Like Their Dough, Pet Bakeries Are Rising

Tue, 06 May 2008 11:24:07 +0000

CHICAGO –- It’s a case of banker turned baker. … full story

Discussion

Hey Zootoo, here is a thought. Why not a section on homemade treats. Folks could enter their receipe… (by betty p. (peytonplace2001))

I always look for dog bakeries when I travel. I make treats for my furkids and for our shelter's ba… (by Beaglepawz)

We found one of these at the outer banks last year when we visited. It was a wonderful place. Doggi… (by Patricia C. (lovepuppy227))

Ok, so in the video, do you really think that the reporter enjoyed eating the dog treat? Anyway, I … (by selena s. (sstarr79))

I was a chef for 20 years and have been thinking about getting into this. I have looked and it does … (by Brian K. (ntzr1972))

Spooked Horses Dump Riders: One Returns, One Missing

Mon, 05 May 2008 20:46:43 +0000

SECAUCUS, N.J. -- A horse becoming spooked is not terribly unusual, however, this weekend brought two separate cases of riders being thrown off their mounts, which are of merit. … full story

Discussion

Would be very nerve wracking not knowing where your pet, or in this case, your partner is. Things l… (by Rachel E. (Ladybug8))

I don't think people will ever learn. I've been on many trail rides for different events which took… (by Melody (MelodyJ))

seems like you couldn't miss a horse walking along the road. especially if it still had its saddle o… (by lisa f. (diddle))

I hope Antz makes it home! (by Gwen J. (KatrinasMolly))

Actually, it takes quite a bit to spook one of NYC's police horses; they are so accustom to all the … (by criscil)

Giving Pets Emergency First Aid Care

Mon, 05 May 2008 16:25:33 +0000

DENVER, Colo. -- In case your pet is suddenly injured or needs emergency medical care for any reason, the American Red Cross is giving first aid classes to treat pets.… full story

Discussion

Well its about time.......Its true my pets are my family and i will do any thing for them.I am so gl… (by d g. (kandykitty20012))

I think many Red Cross offices offer this class and it would be a good idea for pet owners to take i… (by Beaglepawz)

That sounds like a great program! It really is important to know some basic first aid when it comes … (by Crystal (crys9876))

We had that class in our area. Perhaps because I am a retired nurse, I did not feel I learned much … (by Lisa (Puparazzi))

This is great, I would be very interested in a program like this. I have read how to give your anim… (by Christine (kikgirl2))

Latest Unique Birth at Iowa Farm: Goat Quintuplets

Mon, 05 May 2008 10:07:50 +0000

MECHANICSBURG, Iowa –- One expert estimates that quintuplets happen only once in 10,000 goat births, but the owner of Honeybear, who delivered five female kids last week, says it’s really no big deal, even on a farm that’s produced other unorthodox animal offspring.… full story

Discussion

I can see your point of view, BUT I come from a long lne of farmers, AND I run a rescue that support… (by Tracy Moser Re Pets (tracyatouterloop))

Come on folks, get with the program and get the cat spayed!! as mentioned there are many homeless an… (by patty (mikkizmom))

OK..well Boots needs to be spayed!!! Thats for sure. Maybe Honeybear too. (by Carryl D. (carryld))

wow i amm amaze that is wanderful but like some have mention,they should give her a break and the ow… (by bell o. (lala14))

Wow spay and neuter people! (by Paul1115)

Animals of Domestic Violence Find Shelter to End Cycle

Sun, 04 May 2008 10:11:45 +0000

LAS VEGAS -- Breaking the grips of her boyfriend’s control seemed an impossible feat for Connie Goodall, when she couldn’t ensure the safety of the one being who loved her unconditionally: her dog Porter. It wasn’t until she found the nation’s first animal shelter for domestic violence victims that she finally left her abuser. … full story

Discussion

You can go to www.hsus.org and search for safe haven. There is a number of stories there about Domes… (by betty p. (peytonplace2001))

This is wonderful. Not only is it helping woman get out of a horrible situations but it helps get t… (by Tanya b. (tanya5))

While I think this is a much needed program,I have a hard time understanding anyone who would sacr… (by JOMAMA1)

what a wonderful story! My dream is to start a safe house for homeless people w/their animals, get t… (by Irina (irinkad83))

Hallelujah! Reading this story has made my day! The link between domestic violence and animal abus… (by criscil)

Birders Flock to Watch Soaring Migrants

Sat, 03 May 2008 09:41:02 +0000

CHICAGO -- Notions of bird watching might herald images of it being a little old ladies’ pastime, but the hobby draws a crowd of various people who find the activity incredibly social, active and deceivingly addictive.… full story

Discussion

Very interesting. I'm a more passive bird watcher, but I could see how this would be addictive. Th… (by Beaglepawz)

This is a fun, healthy, entertaining and educational hobby. Also during bird count season it helps u… (by Avis I. (Blanchec))

So out of all the birding stories, they use a violent example. I'd like to add that birders have on… (by Photo Pam (Tanyableu))

birding...yet another hobby that i tilt my head to and say, "I wanna try that." (by Shanna T. (diablo72187))

My parents are avid bird watchers. We have a perfect back yard for it, and I must say, sitting on th… (by Jasmine R. (SymphonySuicidal))

NEWSBRIEFS on the Animal Kingdom At-Large

Fri, 02 May 2008 18:39:12 +0000

SECAUCUS, N.J. -- This week, news in the animal kingdom abounded. Below is a nutshell of three separate news events.… full story

Discussion

The oil company needs to be fined big time for neglect. They need to pay some big bucks into a fund … (by betty p. (peytonplace2001))

Sounds like the animal kingdom has had one crazy time! I can also agree with Betty about the oil com… (by Rachel E. (Ladybug8))

It is so sad about the ducks.. (by lisa g. (mule))

i like elephants.and they should not bealowed to kill them or any other animal either. (by john c. (johncundiff94))

Sad for the ducks because of carelessness. Happy for the monkey that he will be better. Don't beli… (by kittypassion)

Roto-Rooter Man Finds Cat In Drain -- Alive

Fri, 02 May 2008 14:22:27 +0000

HARRISBURG, Pa. –- Linda Grudi says her three-year-old Maine Coon, Bud, behaves more like a dog, but it’s a good thing he’s a cat since he appears to have used up at least one of his nine lives.… full story

Discussion

Wow! Talk about being rescued just in time! The rain started the evening of his rescue!? What a l… (by Silver Dragon Pets N. (SilverDragonRescue))

Glad the kitty is ok- sounds like the owners should make a little screened in outdoor area for kitty… (by dawn h. (dawnt))

Next time I have a plugged up drain, I'll count my cats first. Three cheers for the Roto Rooter Man.… (by Sharon S. (sfsanders))

You've got to love this story! This has to be the luckiest cat alive! Maybe Roto Rooter could use th… (by Bill G. (1OldGuy))

Poor Bud! Wish her owners would keep her in ~ the outside world just isn't safe for cats. Speaking… (by Lynn C. (Lynn1))

Fla. Case Sets Tone for Upping Pet Value

Fri, 02 May 2008 06:53:58 +0000

TAMPA, Fla. -- Many pet owners consider their animals family. But in many states, the strict letter of the law considers them property -- like a car, chair or pencil. However, a recent court decision in Florida may lead to changes in that mindset, and provide pet owners with more rights for animals. The change stems from a judge's ruling in a case that began with a Dalmatian attacking a Yorkie.… full story

Discussion

I don't think that the case made any precedent setting decisons about the status of pets as property… (by kc2la)

Pets are not property; they are family. And, how do you put a value on a family member? It definit… (by kittypassion)

We have neighbors that act like the dalmations owner. They are not responsible for their animals. … (by Maria (acedogg2001))

It's awful that the Dalmation's owner wouldn't take responsility for her dog. People like that don't… (by kit10s)

tell me if thiws was a mixed breed would it's value be 0 (by daryl b. (darylob))