Horse in Training - Super Bowl Commercial

Every year around this time I like to post some classic animal related super bowl commercials - check this one out!

Chimpanzees mourn their dead just like humans

According to a report by scientists from the respected Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, chimpanzees appear to mourn their dead infants just like humans.

The scientists have filmed how one chimpanzee mother, whose 16-month-old infant died, apparently begins the grieving process. The ape continues to carry the body of her baby for more than 24 hours before tenderly laying it on the ground. Then from a short distance she watches over her child.

Periodically she returns to the body and touches the face and neck with her fingers to establish it is dead. She then takes the body to other chimpanzees in the troop to get a second opinion.



Source

Eternally cute



Photo Credit

Beauty in the eye of the beholder?

I've had the most fun this morning. Exploring, hunting, learning - THIS is what the internet was meant for, isn't it?

I started at Albert's Window, where the portrait to the left caught my eye.

AND - I had a little moment of Déjà vu. Something about that painting was so familiar. Now, why would such a bizarre piece of art be familiar to me? I thought I'd keep exploring.

The letter which Antonietta Gonzalez the subject of the portrait is holding says,
"Don Pietro, a wild man discovered in the Canary Islands, was conveyed to his most serene highness Henry the king of France, and from there came to his Excellency the Duke of Parma. From whom [came] I, Antonietta, and now I can be found nearby at the court of the Lady Isabella Pallavicina, the honorable Marchesa of Soragna."
Now I detoured to Wikipedia, to read about hypertrichosis, also known as "werewolf syndrome." There, I learned that Antoinetta's father, Petrus Gonzales, has gone down in history as the first recorded case of hypertrichosis.

There are more recent people who are afflicted with hypertrichosis, but they unfortunately are ostracized, or treated as freaks of nature and put on show in traveling carnivals. This was not the fate of Petrus Gonzales and his children.

In Failure Magazine, Merry Wiesner-Hanks, author of “The Marvelous Hairy Girls”, states that,
"They lived at court and Petrus and his sons were given minor positions, Petrus being an assistant bearer of the king’s bread. The Gonzales family was at court because of their hairiness, in a situation similar to that of court dwarves. They were not exactly free to come and go as they pleased, but they were not slaves. Their noble patrons dressed them in luxurious clothing."
In reading an article which Merry Wiesner-Hanks wrote for National Sexuality Resource Center (NSRC), I was thrilled to see that the portrait of Antonietta Gonzales now hangs in the castle of Blois in France.

Then, I had that "Aha moment." See, I've visited Blois! In 2006, we made a trip to France to visit some of the Chateaux of the Loire Valley. I had visited the Chateaux of Blois and had seen that painting before! It just took me about four and a half years to learn its history.

I'm so glad that I did!

(click for larger)
Portrait of Antonietta Gonzales
, by Lavinia Fontana

Soldier's Pets Have Their Own Guardian Angels

By Linda Cole

Before 2005, military personnel who were also pet owners were left with a hard choice to make when the time came for them to deploy overseas. If they couldn't find a temporary home for their pet with family or friends, or a new permanent home, they were forced to relinquish them to a shelter. Linda Spurlin-Dominik and Carol Olmedo decided there should be help for soldiers and their pets. They established an organization called Guardian Angels for Soldier's Pet (GASP), because they felt that no one should have to give up their pet when their chosen job is protecting our country.

Guardian Angels for Soldier's Pet is a nonprofit, all volunteer operation. Their stated goal is to provide a suitable and loving home environment for a soldier's pet when they are called to defend or represent our country anywhere in the world, whether it's in peacekeeping, humanitarian relief, or for combat duty.

It can be difficult in the best of times to find good homes for pets when circumstances force someone to have to give up their pet. Shelters across the country have seen the number of relinquished pets skyrocket over the years because of home foreclosures and military personnel who had to give their pets up before going overseas because there were no other options. It must be heartbreaking for a soldier to turn their beloved pet over to a shelter and then worry if they found a home or had to be put down to make room for other abandoned pets.

GASP created an option for military personnel deploying overseas that allows soldiers to keep their pets. Volunteers around the country care for military pets in a loving home environment until the pet and owner can be reunited. Guardian Angels for Soldier's Pet also provides emergency help for soldiers returning home who may need short term care in the VA system and can't care for their pets at the moment. Care for the pet will continue until the soldier recovers and can reclaim their pet.

As a military support organization, Guardian Angels for Soldier's Pet recruits and interviews potential foster homes to insure they are a loving and suitable home for military pets. The foster home agrees to provide care for a pet according to the wishes of the pet's owner, and they agree to give the pet back. Foster homes are not paid for their service and expenses are taken care of by the pet's owner. GASP can provide help for emergency medical care when needed, if the pet's owner can't be reached because of their duties or if financial aid is needed by the owner.Volunteers help to promote the organization and their programs both nationally and around the states they are in.

GASP has been working on building the first Guardian Angels for Soldier's Pet “Military, Veterans, and Pet” (MVP) Sanctuary that will be located 14 miles west of Fort Hood in Texas, according to their 2009 Annual Report. This sanctuary will be a home-like setting for pets when foster homes can't be found for a military pet, and they hope to be able to build sanctuaries in other states in the near future.

Guardian Angels for Soldier's Pet depends on generous contributions from the public to help them provide foster homes for military pets, help with emergency funds when needed, transport pets to foster homes and build needed sanctuaries throughout the country. Military personnel have enough on their minds when they are preparing to deploy overseas. Taking the worry of what happened to their beloved pet away is just one small way of thanking them for the job they do, and gives them peace of mind knowing their pets are cared for in a loving home.

If you would like to help, you can do so by making a contribution of whatever you can afford, by volunteering to help transport pets or applying to become a foster home for a soldier's pet. This is a great way to show your support for a soldier who is also a pet owner.

For more information about Guardian Angels for Soldier's Pet, including how to sign up as a foster care provider, volunteer or to contribute, please visit the GASP website. You can also help by forwarding this post to your family and friends. GASP is a great organization that is providing a much needed service not only for military personnel, but for animal shelters, as well by keeping pets out of the shelters and in a home environment where they belong.

Read more articles by Linda Cole

Walk your dog on Superbowl Sunday

If you're not watching the Superbowl this Sunday, check out Animal Planet's Puppy Bowl.

And, instead of just watching, why not take a break and get outside and walk your dog? Subaru is making that idea even more tempting, with their Game Day Dog Walk Event. Participants who sign up and pledge to walk will be named on Subaru.com and will receive a free doggy MVP pack including Subaru-branded water bowls, flying discs, stuffies, blankets, engraved dog tags and more (while supplies last.) Pledge to walk your dog on game day at Subaru.com/dogs or Facebook.com/SubaruofAmerica.

Now, for a sneak peak! Two new commercials for Subaru, featuring two cute car-driving canines, Olive and Zelda.




(Dramatization! Do not attempt! Always secure your pets!)

According to a press release, two-thirds of Subaru owners are pet parents.

Video: A Cat Rescue Fail



via Say OMG

Video: The Penguin Dilemma - Translation

Goldfish - Classic Super Bowl Ad



Another classic pet related Super Bowl commercial. In this one, "Sparky" the goldfish plays dead until a boy holds a Pepsi over his tank and he performs tricks. Dad is clueless, though, and flushes the lifeless fish (a common practice).

Later, we see Sparky in the ocean doing back flips for a fisherman.

Another example of how pets help sell products.

Paper Art FAIL

I think these guys must have seen my last post, the one about Paper layers can create stunning art, but I really don't think that this is the correct way to do it.

The stars of the above photo are Jake (Jacob Sylvester, when in trouble) and Fergi (The Lovely Miss Fergi) who have a wonderful blog, Two Special Wires.

Got lots of spare time?



from Paper layers can create stunning art

via Reddit

The Right Way to Walk Your Dog

By Tamara L. Waters

Have you ever seen a dog walking a person? Perhaps you have even been walked by your own dog. If so, you know how exhausting it can be to walk a dog incorrectly. The ideal way is for YOU to be walking the dog. Check out a few of these tips to help you learn the right way to walk your dog and ensure that you aren't the one worn out at the end of the exercise.

Walk in Front

From my own experiences with walking my dogs, the proper way to walk a dog is with you in front and the dog following along. A better way to look at it is for you to lead the walk, not your dog. Putting yourself in the role of leader during a walk allows your dog to relax and follow along.

To help start the walk out correctly, do not allow your dog to go first out of the door or gate of his pen. Begin the walk in the position of leadership so your dog understands that his only job is to enjoy the exercise – not to lead you along.


Use an Anti-Pull Harness or a Chain Collar

If you have a dog that tends to pull when you are walking (my Chocolate Lab did this), I found that an anti-pull harness did a great job with helping her learn to not pull and to follow me. I also found that a pull chain (sometimes called a "choke chain") works well when it is put on properly. The proper method for using a chain as a walking lead is to form it into a P before putting it into place around the dog's neck. I make sure the chain is high on the dog's neck, directly behind the jaw and skull. This helps keep the dog from pulling (yes, it really does work) and also doesn't choke them if they do pull.

Keep Your Dog on a Short Lead

Yes, those long leashes might seem like a good idea, but when you are walking your dog you want to keep them close to you and under control. A long leash gives them too much distance, and what happens if they try to run while you are walking in traffic? Don't take a chance on having a tragic accident while walking your dog.

A short lead helps you maintain control and leadership as you are walking your dog. In the event of a problem (another animal, vehicle or person) that upsets your dog or puts him at risk, you have him close enough to take care of the issue.

Use a special lead or leash just for daily walks. My dog Scooby came to recognize her leash and knew that when I had it in my hand it meant we were about to take a walk. She would get very excited just to see the leash. Store your leash in a place where your dog can see it and he will probably let you know when it's walk time by standing next to the leash or even bringing it to you.

Walk Your Dog Regularly

Dogs of every breed need regular exercise to maintain their health and happiness. If your dog runs laps around your yard, living room or pen, chances are they aren’t getting enough exercise. Be sure to walk them regularly and you will probably notice a calmer attitude and demeanor.

Finish Your Walk with a Reward

After a proper walk (which includes your dog following and not leading), be sure to offer a reward. A reward can be as simple as a good session of belly scratching and affection, or a delicious treat like CANIDAE Snap Bits™. Remember to be consistent with your walks and with your rewards, and your dog will love the daily exercise and time spent with her favorite person.

For more dog-walking tips, check out Linda Cole's article, How to Teach Your Dog Proper Leash Etiquette.

Read more articles by Tamara L. Waters

Smile!

Magical Mystery Mutt Tour

Question: What is this breed of dog pictured? (Answer appears at the end of this post.)

A few weeks ago, Edie, of Will My Dog Hate Me fame posted Name that Breed, a challenging quest to identify the breeds that worked together to make the adorable Wilson. I thought that would be fun to garner reader input on Kelly's possible breeds too. I Still Want More Puppies thought the same. Then, Edie took it a step further, suggesting it would be even more fun to open this up to all of you and your furkids!

So, I'm here to announce the Magical Mystery Mutt Tour Blog Hop, Friday February 4th. Here's what you do: simply write a post including at least two pictures of your dog. Describe your dog's:
height
weight
pertinent personality characteristics.

Post next Friday (2/4), and see what comments you receive.
You can also grab the linky tool, available here or on Will My Dog Hate Me, after 12:01am EST on Friday 2/4, and join the hop. We can't wait to see all the mystery mutts!

So join the fun in the Magical Mystery Mutt Tour and blog hop.
Oh, and the answer to the Question at the top of the post: Morkie (Maltese poodle + Yorkshire terrier.)

Shoveling again


via Bunny Food

Pug joins list of Top Ten dogs

They are stubborn, affectionate, fiercely loyal – and small enough to cuddle in one hand.

Now, more than 300 years after they were popularized, the pug has entered the nation’s top ten best loved dogs. They are now more popular than boxers, whippets, beagles or bulldogs.

Chihuahua numbers have also gone up threefold, while last year saw the miniature smooth-haired dachshund make it into the top 20 for the first time.


Source

Can't sew them back on

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — A valuable pedigreed cat that went missing from its New Zealand home turned up two days later a little different — it had been surgically castrated.

Owner Michelle Curtis said she was furious when Buddy, her prized Siamese-Bengal cross, came home "fixed."

Curtis had owned Buddy for almost two years and was considering using him as a stud cat.

"What am I supposed to do now? I can't exactly get someone to sew them back on," she said.

Source

What Pets Do to Amuse Themselves

By Linda Cole

Pets are quite creative in finding ways to entertain themselves when they're home alone, and it's not always something destructive. I had a cat who loved to unroll toilet paper, but it had to be a new roll before she would touch it. She didn't just unroll it, she would take the loose end and wind it around chairs and table legs and she somehow always managed to unroll the entire roll without tearing it. I'd come home from work to find my dining room had been TP'd by my cat.

Pets do crazy things sometimes whether they're home alone or not. I've had cats over the years that would while away the hours sitting in a window watching what the neighbors were up to. In fact, I would go so far as to say they were spying on the neighbors. I suppose to them that's just as productive as when we sit in front of the TV staring at it for hours at a time. However, one cat took more of an interest than the others. She would cock her head back and forth as if she couldn't believe what was going on outside her window. Anytime she heard a car door shut, voices outside or the mailbox lid flop down, she would race to her window to investigate. New Year's Eve parties were really hard on her.

I've learned to never underestimate the imagination of a pet. I had a brother and sister pair of Collie/Shepherd/Setter/Great Dane dogs that made up a game they played in their pen. Pets do think; I have no doubt about that. I have a small hill on each side of the pen. The dogs would run around the pen picking up speed as they ran. They would look at each other as they ran toward one side or the other where the hills are located and jump the fence at the same time as if their looks had been a signal. Then they would turn around and jump back into the pen, run in the opposite direction and jump over the fence on the other side, turn around and jump back in.

I had a cat that was so fascinated with the timer on the stove, one day while he was home alone he figured out how to turn it on. I came home to a singing stove with no idea why the timer was buzzing. A few nights later, the mystery was solved. All of a sudden, the timer began to buzz in the wee hours of the morning. I thought at first it was my alarm clock, but it was only 3 A.M. Following the buzzing, I found my cat sitting in the middle of the stove watching the timer.

Once he learned how to turn the timer on, that became his entertainment of choice. That is, until I started removing the knob when I left the house or before going to bed. My cat spent months sitting on the stove trying to figure out how to turn the timer minus the knob. I would catch him biting it and trying to turn it using his front paws. It's a good thing cats don't have thumbs because if he had succeeded, the stove would have had to go.

The same cat also loved playing in water. He discovered that the one-handled kitchen faucet was easy to push up and could give him endless hours of water fun. So, shortly thereafter, I replaced the faucet with one he couldn't turn on. He then turned his attention to the wind chimes that dangled from the living room ceiling. They were a gift from a friend and I didn't want to hang them outside. They hung low enough that if my cat stretched far enough from the top of the couch, he could reach the bottom just enough to make them chime – day and night. I took them down after one too many of his late night serenades.

I've learned over the years that pets do find ways to entertain themselves whether they're home alone or not. Sometimes it's destructive, but often what they dream up is quite funny when you realize their amazing ability to find ways to amuse themselves. For more on this topic, be sure to check out Julia’s humorous article, The Funny Things Cats Do. Julia also investigated whether DVDs made just for pets might provide some amusement when they’re left home alone. Find out by reading Do DVDs for Cats Really Keep Them Entertained?

My pets have entertained me for years, and I’ll bet yours have too. Now it’s your turn! I'd love to hear your stories on what your pets do for fun when they're home alone.

Read more articles by Linda Cole

An unusual painting

While we often see dogs in art, one very seldom finds a cat. Painted many, many years ago - but preserved forever ...

I love this painting:

Francois Boucher, La Toilette (A Lady Fastening Her Garter). 1742, oil on canvas.
Fundacion Coleccion Thyssen-Bornemisza.

(click for larger)

via

'Godzilla-like creature' nabbed in Calif. town

RIVERSIDE, Calif. — The 5-foot Monitor lizard wandering around a condo complex in the city of Riverside had residents freaking out and reporting a Godzilla-like creature in their neighborhood.

Black-throated Monitor lizards are carnivorous, legal to own in California and native to the African grasslands and parts of Asia. Juveniles go for about $100 in pet stores, but they grow.

The animal was captured and taken to Riverside County Animal Services.

Photo: Riverside County Department of Animal Services

Source

Sleeping with pets carries disease risk

Nonsense! Nonsense! Nonsense!

Sleeping with and “kissing” your animals on their little pet lips puts you at risk for some serious medical problems — even when those pusses and pooches are seemingly healthy, according to “Zoonoses in the Bedroom,” a study published in the February issue of the CDC journal Emerging Infectious Diseases.

“The risk of contracting something is rare, but if you’re that person who gets a disease from a pet, rare doesn’t matter that much,” says the paper’s co-author Bruno Chomel, a professor at the University of California-Davis school of veterinary medicine and an expert in zoonoses, the transmission of disease from animal to human. “I know this will make me unpopular, but pets really don’t belong in your bed.”

Source --- Please remember: you can't believe everything you read on the internet.

The American Veterinary Medical Association doesn’t have a formal recommendation about pets sleeping with their humans. But AVMA president Larry Kornegay affirms that zoonotic diseases are “uncommon, if not rare.”

He should be the next mayor of Chicago

Ann at paper bag & string blogged about Freddy, the unofficial mayor of the Village of Sharon, in Walworth County, Wisconsin.

The cat known as the mayor of Sharon, or Freddy, lives at the Village Hall, greeting folks who come to pay water or property tax bills. He meows to go out twice a day to make his rounds in the small downtown, visiting the post office, the back doors of restaurants and at least one tavern, as well as stopping to catch mice in a wooded area across from the Village Hall.

"This is his town," said Sharon Postmaster Scott Vinke. "Everyone looks out for him. If he's crossing the street, everybody stops and gives him the right of way. He's the mayor."

Read more

Wouldn't it be great to get Freddy's name on the ballot for Mayor of Chicago?

Animal cruelty laws among fastest-growing

Incidents of abuse and a shifting national consciousness have made animal anti-cruelty laws one of the fastest-growing fields in the legal profession. In 1993, just seven states had felony animal cruelty laws; today, all but four do.

"Animal law is where environmental law was 20 years ago. It's in its infancy but growing," said Pamela Frasch, who heads the National Center for Animal Law at Lewis & Clark Law School in Portland, where she has been an adjunct professor for 10 years.

Lewis & Clark opened the first Animal Legal Defense Fund chapter in 1992. Today it has branches at more than 115 law schools in the United States and Canada.

In 2000, nine law schools had animal law studies. Today about 100 do.

READ More

How Much Is Too Much to Spend on Pets?

By Julia Williams

I recently found a great blog called “24 Paws of Love” that chronicles life with six big dogs. I’m sure it’s not easy to meet the physical and emotional needs of six dogs of any size, but these wonderful people do it willingly because these dogs are family. What inspired me to write this post was their commentary about some of the things people say to them about their dogs. They’re asked how they can afford to feed so many dogs, or told that they’ll never get ahead financially unless they “get rid of some of the dogs.”

Wow – really? I have to wonder about the type of person who could say such things. They’re not pet people obviously, and they seem to be lacking in self censorship and social decorum. Would they walk up to “Octomom” Nadya Sulleman and tell her, “It must be hard to feed 14 children, you should give some of them up.” Unthinkable, right? Never mind that Nadya herself admitted on Oprah recently that she was financially destitute. It’s just not socially acceptable to tell a parent how many children they can or should have. It may or may not be the best choice for someone to have 14 kids, but it’s their choice. Likewise, it should never be acceptable to comment on how many pets a person chooses to have or how much money they spend on them – the exception being, animal hoarders who aren’t capable of caring for vast numbers of dogs and/or cats.

If someone wants to have six big dogs and they’re able to feed them and keep them all in good health, so be it. What they spend on dog food and other pet expenses is nobody’s business. Yet I know from personal experience that some people do feel it’s acceptable to comment on such things. Years ago I casually mentioned an expensive vet visit to my mother and she said matter-of-factly, “It would be cheaper to put him to sleep.” When I recovered from my shock and told her how offensive that was to me, she said she didn’t mean I should do it, just that it would cost less. Well yeah, that was true…but still. I’m just at a loss to understand how anyone can even think such things. I’m 100% sure that if her human grandchild needed costly medical care, my mother would not say something similar.

This illustrates to me what a gigantic gap there is between the thinking of “pet people” like myself, and non-pet people like my mother or strangers who comment on how many dogs someone has. It’s a chasm bigger than the Grand Canyon, really – a hole so deep and wide that neither group will ever be able to see the others point of view. Pet people know that you can’t possibly put a price tag on the unconditional love an animal gives so freely.

So how much is too much to spend on pets? There is no such figure, because it’s an individual decision. However, I read an article stating that with recent advances in veterinary medicine, pet owners are increasingly faced with that question. One pet owner reportedly paid $25,000 for a procedure to save their pet’s life. Is that too much? There’s no right or wrong answer; it’s an individual choice. One thing I do know, though, is that those who’ve never had a special relationship with a pet will never understand how someone could spend that sum on “just a pet.” 

My cats never have been, and never will be, “just pets.” They are my family. They are true healers who can make everything right with just one lick or a soulful gaze. They are loving, giving beings that deserve the very best. Pets give so much, and ask for so little. Sometimes I marvel at how lucky I am that these angels with fur are in my life. And sometimes, I feel sad for those who will never know what a great, priceless gift it is, to be loved by an animal. In the end, I’m just happy to be a “cat mom,” and eternally grateful for their love.

Read more articles by Julia Williams

Got a great dog photo?

Your dog is sooooo cute!
You know he's special. You know she makes you smile. So why not share that adorable mug with everyone?

Guideposts magazine online announces its new dog slide show. They're looking for smiling dogs, happy dogs, funny dogs. Could that be yours??!

Simply send a photo of your dog (or family member's or friend's dog) that makes you smile, to:


inspireus@guideposts.org (Or if that isn't working, use inspireus@guideposts.com)
Include:
Dog's name
Owner's name
Location
Dog's age
A little sentence about the dog.

The slide show is being updated frequently, so hurry and get those photos in right away!
And don't worry cat owner, kitties turn is coming up soon!

New News:

Just heard of another opportunity to get your pet photos out there now too! (Kitties too!) Thoughts Fur Paws is holding a January Funny Pet Photo Contest. Prizes include treats, toys and more. Send your photos to thoughtsfurpaws@gmail.com.
Smile!

Here's a real Christian for ya

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Authorities have charged a South Carolina woman with felony animal cruelty, saying she hanged her nephew's pit bull from a tree with an electrical cord and burned its body because the dog chewed on her Bible.

Animal control officers said Monday that 65-year-old Miriam Smith told them she killed a female dog named Diamond because it was a "devil dog" and she worried it could harm neighborhood children.

Source

World's oldest dog?

Meet Uncle Chi-Chi, A miniature poodle who has had three owners, traveled the world, survived a rescue home, cataracts, glaucoma and at least two near-death experiences is being hailed as the world's oldest dog.

Believed by his current owner to be at least 23, and possibly 24, he takes eight short walks a day in Manhattan's exclusive West Village where he has been doted on by film producer Frank Pavich for the last 15 years.

Source

Nursing Homes are going to the Dogs!

By Suzanne Alicie

People who love pets can’t imagine having to live without the comfort of a furry back to stroke or a purring foot warmer. However, as responsible pet owners age they may have to face the fact that they can no longer live alone and must move to a nursing home. Because there are so many people with different ailments and afflictions in a nursing home, more than likely the person won’t be able to take their beloved pets. New residents in a nursing home may experience depression due to the changes in their life and the loss of their pets.

Just imagine raising a puppy and providing it with wonderful care, attention and all the best in natural pet food like CANIDAE for years and then finding out that you are unable to care for him anymore. You are going to be moving to an assisted living facility and have to give up your precious pet to another family. It’s heartbreaking.

Because of this, many nursing homes provide animal therapy for their residents. There are dogs and cats that make regular visits to nursing homes and even hospitals, to allow the elderly to interact with an animal, to feel the soft fur and look into their loving eyes. This can make a huge difference in the quality of life that the person has in the nursing home. Therapy dogs and cats are trained to provide comfort, company and attention to all sorts of people. CANIDAE is a proud sponsor of several therapy dogs through their Special Achievers program.

Another option that the elderly pet lover and their family may want to consider is finding a nursing home that has a resident cat or dog. Many times these animals are allowed to wander around the place and visit with all the residents. Of course, these nursing homes can be difficult to find because so many people have allergies and other problems with animals, and the administrators want to be as accommodating as possible to all the people who need their services. Still, it's worth looking into.

The benefits of pets for the elderly are well known. Pets provide entertainment, companionship, comfort and therapeutic energy. Why should aging lead to the loss of the comforting love of animals that a person has enjoyed throughout their life? It shouldn’t. There are ways of making sure that the elderly, even in nursing homes, have the opportunity to enjoy a pet.

Responsible pet owners who have animals that are good with people or who are trained therapy dogs may want to consider contacting their local nursing homes to see if a visit can be arranged. Your pet will enjoy the interaction and excitement of a visit as much as the residents of the nursing home. Be sure to take along plenty of CANIDAE Snap-Bits™ so that your dog’s new friends can give him a treat!

Read more articles by Suzanne Alicie

Giant new crayfish species

A new species of giant crayfish, Barbicambarus simmonsi, has been found in Tennessee. At about 5in (12 cm) long, the huge crayfish is twice the size of other species. Its 'bearded' setae on the antennae, bright red highlights and aquamarine tail fins add to its distinctiveness.

Photograph: Courtesy of Carl Williams
Source

Baby's Day at the Beauty Salon

Mrs. R, "Baby" and Nurse Kim
Have you ever found yourself needing a change in outlook, or maybe a change in perspective? Hospice patients are no different. Sometimes a patient's time on hospice contains seasons of depression, discouragement or downright boredom. Some days are good and they feel like doing things, or going places, while other days are a struggle. Like the rest of us, patients need the support and encouragement of family and friends for those days when things aren't going so well.

Our story this month comes from Hospice of North Central Oklahoma. PPOM Coordinator Melanie Wright tells the story:

"Mrs. R. has a small elderly white poodle named Baby. The patient is very attached to the dog and thinks of her as family--they have been together many years. Baby needed a grooming visit, so I asked the patient's daughter for information. When I called the dog's long-time groomer, he loved hearing about Pet Peace of Mind and he wanted to help. On the morning of the appointment, I called the patient's home. Her daughter said that Mrs. R. had a very rough night and wasn't doing very well. The hospice nurse confirmed to me that she thought the patient was declining. With the caregiver's permission, I came by to pick up Baby and took her to the groomer for the day. The patient woke later that morning and asked for her dog. She was told about Baby's trip to the groomer. The patient began to rouse and said, "Well, then, I need to go get my hair done, too!" Later that afternoon, I picked up Baby. She was transformed-- beautiful, with bows in her ears. The groomer refused to charge for his services. I invited the hospice nurse to meet me at the house to see the patient's reaction. When I came in, the patient was dressed and sitting in her recliner with her arms held out to take her dog. It was a very emotional setting for us all, witnessing the two old friends greet each other with joy." 

Pet Peace of Mind is about keeping old friends together--through the good times and the hard times.

Remember Leo the Lion?

Leo the Lion is the mascot for the Hollywood film studio Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and one of its predecessors, Goldwyn Pictures, featured in the studio's production logo.

Slats was the first lion used for the newly-formed MGM studio. He was born at Dublin Zoo, Ireland on March 20, 1919. The photo above is Slats the Lion being filmed for his cinematic debut as the MGM Logo, c. 1924.

Slats was used on all black-and-white MGM films between 1924 and 1928. Slats was trained to growl rather than roar (although in the logo he did nothing but look around), and for the next couple of years, the lion would tour with MGM promoters to signify the studio's launch.

Slats died in 1936. His skin is now on display at the McPherson Museum, in Kansas.


The original logo was designed by Howard Dietz and used by the Goldwyn Pictures Corporation studio from 1916 to 1924.

PHOTO 1: via The Daily What
PHOTO 2: Wikipedia

How to Use a Clicker to Train Your Dog or Cat

By Linda Cole

Clicker training has been rising in popularity over the last several years as a useful tool for dog training. Many professional dog trainers never leave home without their clicker and use it in conjunction with treats and positive reinforcement. It works well for training both dogs and cats, but there is a trick to using a clicker the right way to reinforce the behavior you want to teach. It's not hard, but it is all in the timing and knowing when to click.

Dog training doesn't require a lot of time, but it does require commitment. A puppy's training should begin the minute you bring him home. This way he grows up knowing what you expect from him, and he's not as likely to develop behavioral problems down the road. An older dog whose training was neglected when they were young and now has behavioral problems can still be taught appropriate behavior using positive reinforcement. A clicker enhances the reinforcement with a quicker response from the person doing the training.

When used correctly, clicker training can give your dog or cat a response at the exact moment they've accomplished the task you want them to learn. The time it takes to say “Good boy/girl” or any other praise is not at the exact same time of their compliance. Using a clicker gives the pet instant acknowledgment for the act they just performed, which allows them to learn quicker. Clicker training doesn't replace the need for praise and treats though. You still want to have plenty of CANIDAE Snap-Bits™ or Snap Biscuit® treats on hand for earned rewards. A treat should be given after each click so your pet associates the sound of the click with a reward – the treat. The advantage of clicker training is that it takes away the variations in our tone of voice which can confuse some pets. And it allows every member in a household to train a pet using a clicker, giving a pet a consistent marker for completing a task.

Using a clicker isn't difficult, but getting the timing right may take a little practice. The first thing you want to do is get your pet to learn what the clicker means and associate the sound with a treat. Always remember – click first and then give the treat. When your dog or cat hears the click, it should be at the exact moment they sit, shake hands, come or do any command you're teaching.

Start by calling your pet to you. Use the treat as an incentive to get their attention. When you have it, click and then give the treat. This teaches your pet that the sound of the clicker gets him a treat. When your pet looks at you every time you click, then you're ready to move on to the next step.

Take a treat and hold it in your hand close to your face. Most pets will focus on your hand where the treat is hidden. Stay patient and wait for them to look at you and not your hand. The exact moment they look at your face, click and treat. Do this until your pet automatically looks you in the eyes. Give an immediate click followed by a treat. Don't forget to give praise as well. Clicker training reinforces faster than verbal praise.

When your dog or cat understands what the click means, you're ready to move on to anything you want to teach them. Keep the training sessions fun and make sure you give your pet plenty of opportunities to succeed. In other words, if they appear frustrated or not really into the training session, give it a rest. Training sessions should be done when your pet is hungry, otherwise the treat may not be as interesting.

Knowing how to correctly use a clicker is an important tool you can use that will reinforce your pet's positive actions. He will learn to associate the sound of the click as a positive reaction from you. If you're interested in clicker training, you can find clickers in most pet stores and online. They aren't expensive and are small enough to carry in a pocket for quick access. It takes a little practice to get the timing down, but once you get the feel of the clicker, you will get faster results with your training.

After your dog has learned basic commands, you might be interested in getting him certified in the AKC Canine Good Citizen program. Julia Williams outlines the ten different tests your dog will need to pass before getting their certificate.

Read more articles by Linda Cole

The Cover Revealed!

I can't wait to share this with you all.
As many of you know, my first book is coming out this summer. It's about families, changes, love, losing weight, and of course, Kelly.
After accepting my manuscript, one of the first things my publisher needed was a book cover. This is because, even before the book is actually ready, the cover is displayed in their catalog to help promote and market the book. So, they created a great design, and one day the photographer came over to do a photo shoot.


























































And voila! The book will be released in August. Kelly and I are so excited! Here it is!

Video: Now THIS is L-O-V-E!



via Say OMG

Jasper Thrives on CANIDAE, and Now He Eats for Free!


By Julia Williams

The sponsor of this blog, CANIDAE Natural Pet Foods, selects one reader every three months to receive a free six month supply of their premium quality pet food. It’s yet another gesture of goodwill from a company I’ve come to know as being exceedingly generous and kind to both their two- and four-legged friends. The free pet food winner is chosen at random from every new reader who subscribed to the Responsible Pet Ownership blog via email during the past quarter, and they get to pick any formula of CANIDAE dog food or FELIDAE cat food.

The lucky winner from last quarter is Heather Cann of California, or perhaps I should I say Jasper Cann, since he is the one who will actually be enjoying the food! Jasper is an adorable 2-year-old Miniature Poodle that Heather said is “very sweet, a little spunky and always playful.” Heather’s family adopted Jasper from a local shelter in 2009 when he was about 4 months old.

They searched rescues and shelters for 2 months for a dog that was more asthma/allergy friendly before they found Jasper. “He was a small, scruffy little puppy at the time and looked more Fozzie the Bear than a poodle. But Jasper was totally fearless of our toddler Stella, so we knew he was a good fit for our family,” said Heather.

According to Heather, Jasper often gets mistaken for a terrier/poodle mix because he has a “natural” tail that follows him like a horse’s tail when he runs really fast (awwww, how cute!). Jasper enjoys the dog park, long walks, sneaking Cheerios from little Stella, and playing keep-away food games with the family’s five chickens, who always manage to keep him in line.

The Cann’s are already fans of CANIDAE pet food – they’ve been feeding Jasper the All Life Stages formula for the past five months, and Heather said he is thriving on it. She wrote: “Jasper was diagnosed with Gastroesophageal reflux disease last year and is sensitive to many dog foods, but is in excellent health on CANIDAE. We are happy to have found a holistic dog food our Jasper does so well on. Thanks CANIDAE!”

Now, Jasper will get to chow down on a free six-month supply of the CANIDAE ALS formula he loves. ALS is made from four high quality meat meals (chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish) and also contains balanced Omega 6 & 3 fatty acids, wholesome brown rice and essential vitamins and minerals. Like all CANIDAE pet food products, the ALS formula contains no corn, wheat, soy, grain fractions or fillers, and is naturally preserved.

Congratulations, Jasper! And for those of you who have yet to subscribe to the Responsible Pet Ownership blog – do it before the end of March to be entered in our next drawing for free pet food. Who knows, your dog (or cat) could be the next big winner!

Read more articles by Julia Williams

Video: Feline Fruit Stacking



via

Purina One Promotion

Purina ONE® is celebrating the launch of Purina ONE® beyOnd™ with a special Facebook promotion that will offer 250,000 consumers a coupon to try Purina ONE® beyOnd™ brand dog or cat food. On a first come first serve basis, consumers can log onto Facebook.com/PurinaONE to redeem a coupon for $2.00 off a package of beyOnd™ brand dog food or brand cat food (any size, any variety). Simply click on the “beyOnd Coupon” tab to download the coupon (limit of one sample per person).

Both of these natural pet food recipes are made from ingredients like real meat, whole grains and accents of fruits and vegetables. The Purina ONE® beyOnd™ packaging also goes above and beyond to make a difference, using at least 92 percent renewable materials.

Smile!



Source: one of my favorites, Awkward Family Pet Photos

Phone keeps ringing in croc's tummy

KIEV, Ukraine — Gena, a 14-year-old crocodile at an aquarium in the eastern city of Dnipropetrovsk, has been refusing food and acting listless after eating a cell phone dropped by a woman as she tried to photograph him.

Aquarium workers initially didn't believe Rimma Golovko, a new mother in her 20s, when she complained that the crocodile had swallowed her phone.

“But then the phone started ringing and the sound was coming from inside our Gena's stomach and we understood she wasn't lying,” said Alexandra, an employee.

The mishap has caused problems for the crocodile, which has not eaten or had a bowel movement in four weeks and appears depressed and in pain.

"The animal is not feeling well," said Alexandra. "His behavior has changed, he moves very little and swims much less than he used to."

Source

The Alaskan Malamute, a True Arctic Breed

By Ruthie Bently

The Alaskan Malamute’s origins go back 2,000 to 3,000 years, and their creation is credited to the Mahlemut Inuit tribe of northern Alaska. Most experts agree that the Malamute is one of the earliest dog breeds of North America. It is debated that they owe their existence to the breeding between domesticated Arctic wolves and early dogs owned by the tribe. It has not yet been scientifically confirmed, but the Alaskan Malamute might be the nearest living relative to the “First Dog” according to Mietje Germonpré, a paleontologist at the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences. He feels that 30,000 year old dog remains recently found closely resemble the Alaskan Malamute due to their size.

I find it easy to believe that this breed is descended from wolves, as they do tend to howl more than they bark. I have had the chance to hear wolves howling, and the similarity is interesting. An extended family member owns a Malamute with ice blue eyes (this is a disqualification in the confirmation ring). When she looks at you, you get the impression that she is looking into your soul.

The Malamute was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1935. An adult male may range in height from 24 to 26 inches at the withers and weigh between 80 to 95 pounds. An adult female may range in height from 22 to 24 inches and weigh between 70 to 85 pounds. They have a life expectancy of twelve to fifteen years. A Malamute is a large, deep-chested breed and is prone to hip dysplasia, cataracts and bloat. It is a member of the AKC’s working group and is a good example of the group.

Malamutes have a long, dense double coat of hair, well suited to the northern climes and cold weather. If you live in a state like Arizona, you might want to think twice before getting a Malamute. They blow coat profusely in the spring and the fall, and brushing several times a week outside is suggested. The undercoat comes out in clumps. Coat colors can be solid white, black and white, sable and white, red and white, blue and white, or gray and white.

The early Mahlemuts used Malamutes (their only mode of transportation) for pulling travel sleds, hauling sleds loaded with supplies and food, and for hunting polar bears. Malamutes were highly prized for their willingness to work and their endurance and strength. They are still used for hauling freight over long distances and moving heavy objects.

Highly athletic dogs, Malamutes are frequently used for skijoring, bikejoring, canicross (the sport of cross-country running while hitched to a dog), agility, backpacking, carting, dog sledding, jogging, mushing, packing, search and rescue, and weight pulling. In long distance races, they are slower and heavier than their smaller cousin, the Siberian Husky.

As sled dogs, Malamutes are suited more for hauling and transport due to their accomplished sense of smell, courageous tenacity and sense of direction. These traits make them an invaluable addition to any expedition. Malamutes were used in 1896 during the gold rush in the Klondike. They were used frequently in Admiral Byrd’s expeditions to the South Pole and were used during World War II for search and rescue in Greenland, as well as being immortalized in books written by Rudyard Kipling and Jack London. The Alaskan Malamute was voted as the state dog of Alaska in 2010.

Malamutes need daily exercise. They like to wander, and a stout fenced yard or a dog run is suggested. If you build a dog run, the fence should be buried several inches below ground, as they will dig their way out. They make a good family pet, but if there are smaller household pets, care should be taken due to the Malamute’s strong prey drive. Due to their size, care should be taken when they are around small children, as they may knock them over. Obedience training is strongly suggested, and Malamutes need to be properly socialized with other dogs and humans. This breed needs an owner who is a strong alpha; otherwise they may be unruly and try to rule the roost. 

If you live in a northern climate, love exercise and winter sports, and don’t mind cleaning up dog hair, this affectionate, versatile arctic dog may be the right one for you.

Read more articles by Ruthie Bently

1,022 words - largest vocabulary of any known dog

Chaser, a border collie who lives in Spartanburg, S.C., knows 1,022 proper nouns, a record that displays unexpected depths of the canine mind.

John W. Pilley, Chaser's owner, bought her as a puppy in 2004 from a local border collie breeder and started to train her for four to five hours a day. He would show her an object, say its name up to 40 times, then hide it and ask her to find it, while repeating the name all the time. She was taught one or two new names a day, with monthly revisions and reinforcement for any names she had forgotten.

It was hard to remember all the names Chase had to learn, so he wrote the name on each toy with indelible marker. In three years, Chaser's vocabulary included 800 cloth animals, 116 balls, 26 Frisbees and a medley of plastic items.

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Best 2011 Cars for Pet People

What is the best car, designed with your dog in mind? If you're considering buying a new car this year, FIDO Friendly magazine has done the research for you, and put together a list of the Best 2011 Dog-Friendly Cars. These vehicles are tops in traveling safely and comfortably with your dog. Last year the Honda Element earned high marks. Here are some award-winners this year:
Honda Odyssey
* more crate space in the back
* this year's model is lower and wider than before
Toyota Sienna
* tri-zone climate control means dogs in the back can be comfortable too

Jeep Grand Cherokee
* hooks and removable storage bins for all your pet's needs
* power-lift tailgate

Kia Sportage
* five door design
* squared off back for more crate space
* a lot of space for a smaller size vehicle
Chevrolet Traverse
* serious cargo space
* three rows of seats that fold flat

Check out FIDO Friendly for the complete article.
What about you? What features do you look for in a dog-friendly vehicle?

Ways to Help Your Local Animal Shelter

By Tamara L. Waters

Most local animal shelters are not-for-profit organizations and work on a shoestring budget while relying upon donations and volunteers to help the animals in their care. This year, why not make plans to give a helping hand to your local animal shelter with a few of these ideas.

Volunteer

Your local animal shelter is probably understaffed. Most often, these organizations need every willing body to keep things running and to take care of the animals that end up here. There are so many ways to volunteer your time to help out.

Are you handy with a screwdriver and good at fixing things? Your local shelter may appreciate having someone who can come in and replace and repair things in the building. How about volunteering to do some laundry? Blankets and towels that are used for the animals always need to be washed.

Shelters always need people to clean cages, show affection to animals, do maintenance, answer phones, sweep floors and many other necessary tasks. Maybe you don't have the time to go and do physical work at the shelter, but you might be able to spread the word about the shelter and its needs. You can volunteer to do fundraising or share information about the shelter. You can write letters, post fliers, help with newsletters and many other tasks.

Donate

While your first thought when you hear the word "donate" might be "But I really don't have any extra money," that's not the only type of donation shelters need. Sure, they need funds, but they’re also glad to have donations of items they spend their money on. Cleaning supplies, paper towels, blankets, pet toys, pet cages and carriers, and many other pet supplies are always needed at local shelters. Maybe you could make a donation of healthy pet food like CANIDAE and FELIDAE.

If you don't have anything to donate, perhaps you could collect donations. One barrier to a shelter receiving donations is often that the person making the donations has difficulty finding time to stop by and drop it off. Offer to pick up donations for the shelter.

You could also organize a donation drive among friends, family and neighbors. Create a collection box to place in a central location and outline specific donations needed. Take the responsibility of collecting and delivering the donations to the shelter.

Spread the Word

In the same way your local shelter is always in need of volunteers, they also need caring people who will help spread the word. In my area, there is a Facebook page for the local no-kill shelter. When they have a fundraiser, they post on their Facebook page. It takes very little effort to share posts on my own Facebook wall about fundraisers and needs for this shelter. This is an easy way for me to help out without leaving my own home.

Do you have a way with words? Offer to write press releases for the shelter and contact local media sources to get the information out to the public. Do you have a knack for computers and web programming? If so, offer to help the shelter with creating and maintaining a website.

Advocate for the animals at your local shelter. Write letters to your local newspaper about the shelter and show your support for its purpose. Encourage friends and family members to be responsible pet owners and get their pets spayed or neutered to cut down on the population of unwanted pets – which is one reason why so many shelters are full.

Transportation

My local animal shelter is always in need of people to transport animals to other locations like rescue groups and veterinary appointments.

Call Your Local Shelter to Find Out More

If you are trying to think of ways to help your local shelter, your best bet is to pick up the phone. Call them and find out what their specific needs are. Their needs may already be on this list, or they may have a completely different need. Become familiar with what the shelter uses for day-to-day operations and let them tell you what you can do to help. The animals in their care may not be able to express it, but the people involved with the shelter will be very appreciative of every caring person who makes the effort to help out.

Photo by Bethan Hazell

Read more articles by Tamara L. Waters

Drug-Smuggling Pigeon Nabbed

Colombian police say they have captured a carrier pigeon that was being used to smuggle drugs into a prison.

The bird was trying to fly into a jail in the north-eastern city of Bucaramanga with marijuana and cocaine paste strapped to its back, but did not make it.

Police believe the 45g (1.6oz) drug package was too heavy for it.

Police, who believe the bird was trained by inmates, say they've caught other pigeons attempting to carry phone cards into the jail.

Source

Jim Carrey to star with penguins

Think penguin movies peaked about five years ago when March of the Penguins and Happy Feet were playing?

Hollywood believes audiences will come waddling back on Aug. 12, when 20th Century Fox releases the big-screen adaptation of the 1930s children's book Mr. Popper's Penguins, starring Jim Carrey, Angela Lansbury and a half-dozen real-life, flightless water fowl.

Audiences will be watching the real penguins for roughly half the movie. In some scenes, CGI animals were used.

Source

N. America's oldest Asian elephant dies

VALLEJO, Calif. -- North America's oldest Asian elephant has died at a Northern California theme park at the age of 71.

The average life expectancy for Asian elephants is 44.8 years.

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom on Tuesday announced the death of Taj, who had lived at the Vallejo park for 33 years.

The elephant was one of Discovery Kingdom's most popular attractions. Her tricks included stacking logs and playing tug-of-war with guests. The park retired her three years ago.

AP Photo
Source

Dogs Were Man's Best Friend Even 9,400 Years Ago

PORTLAND, Maine -- Nearly 10,000 years ago, man's best friend provided protection and companionship - and an occasional meal.

That's what researchers are saying after finding a bone fragment from what they are calling the earliest confirmed domesticated dog in the Americas.

University of Maine graduate student Samuel Belknap III came across the fragment while analyzing a dried-out sample of human waste unearthed in southwest Texas in the 1970s. A carbon-dating test put the age of the bone at 9,400 years, and a DNA analysis confirmed it came from a dog - not a wolf, coyote or fox, Belknap said.

Because it was found deep inside a pile of human excrement and was the characteristic orange-brown color that bone turns when it has passed through the digestive tract, the fragment provides the earliest direct evidence that dogs - besides being used for company, security and hunting - were eaten by humans and may even have been bred as a food source, he said.

Source

Do Dogs and Cats Get Cabin Fever?

By Julia Williams

Around this time every year, the side effects of winter start to take their toll on my household. My three cats and I all become irritable, depressed, bored, restless, frustrated, and just plain ticked off at the world. The bitter cold and knee-deep snow make the outdoors inhospitable, so we hole up indoors. On good days we are able to stay out of mischief; on the darkest days of winter we go stir crazy, which generally results in some sort of bad behavior. What that behavior is varies with the day (and the species), but yes – just like humans, pets can and do get Cabin Fever.

While not an actual disease as the name suggests, Cabin Fever is a state of mind. It’s a claustrophobic reaction brought on by an extended stay in a confined space or a remote, isolated area. Although Cabin Fever is more prevalent in winter, it can occur any time of the year.

Normally well-behaved dogs and cats suffering from Cabin Fever may begin to pick fights with other family pets. They might stare vacantly out the window all day, chew on things they’re not supposed to, or race around the house like something possessed. So what’s a responsible pet owner to do when the weather outside is frightful? Find ways to make being indoors more enjoyable!


Active Play

All dogs need regular exercise and active play. Even though the harsh winter weather might prevent you from taking them out for long walks, runs or playtime at the dog park, they still need to get sufficient exercise for their breed. An indoor tug-of-war session is a great way burn off excess canine energy – and you’ll burn calories too!

Playing hide-and-seek not only keeps your dog moving, but gives him mental stimulation as well. Most dogs quickly learn how to play this game. “Tell your dog to stay (or have someone hold him) and then go hide,” suggests certified dog trainer Robin Bennett. “Once you're hidden, call your dog and let him use his nose to find you.” Other active ways to play with dogs are to create a mini agility course in your basement or playroom, or lay broomsticks over chairs and teach your dog to jump over them.

Cats need exercise and active play too. Keep them fit and stave off Cabin Fever with interactive toys that stimulate their hunting instincts – such as feather wands, kitty “fishing poles” and remote controlled mice. Cats love to climb and scratch, so satisfy both of these natural feline urges by giving them their own cat tree/tower with multiple perches and scratching surfaces. Lastly, you can set up a Feline Agility course in any room with a little extra space.

Mental Stimulation

Winter is a great time to teach your pet some fun tricks. You can invest in a dog training book that gives step-by-step directions for all the basic tricks, but there’s plenty of info online too. We’ve written several “how to” articles about teaching tricks on this blog, including Teach Your Dog to Roll Over, Train Your Dog to Ring a Bell, and Teach Your Cat the High Five Trick.”

Hiding your dog’s favorite toy or some CANIDAE Snap-Bits™ treats around the house will work his mind, which can be just as helpful as physical exercise for combating Cabin Fever. Refresher obedience exercises can also help stimulate his mind. For cats, a window perch with several bird feeders outside will provide lots of stimulating action. Some dogs and cats even enjoy watching Pet Sitter DVDs on your TV.

High Quality Food

Feeding a premium pet food like CANIDAE or FELIDAE won’t “cure” Cabin Fever, but it can certainly help, because good food is the foundation for good health, and a healthy pet is a happier pet. When their nutritional needs are met, our dogs and cats have better digestion, and more vitality and energy.

Extra Attention

One of the simplest things you can do for a dog or cat with Cabin Fever is to spend more time with them. Plenty of grooming, petting, hugging, playtime and just hanging out can help keep the winter doldrums at bay – for both of you!

Get Outside on “Nice” Days

I put “nice” in parentheses because I think the only pleasant thing about winter is that it eventually leads to spring. (Yes, I hate winter!). Nevertheless, on those winter days when the skies are calm and the sun provides a welcome respite to the bitter cold, get your dog outside. You can take a winter hike, go snowshoeing or try skijoring, a fun sport that involves getting pulled along on cross-country skis by an intrepid canine “driver.”

For more great suggestions on how to keep your pets from going stir crazy in winter, check out these articles: How to Deal With Canine Cabin Fever, and Games to Play with Pets on a Cold Winter Day.

Read more articles by Julia Williams

Bad hair day

These wild haired primates prove that being a real life gorilla in the mist can wreak havoc with your hairdo.

Looking in desperate need of some frizz-ease, the grizzled gorillas have the local weather to thank for their curly look.

Aren't they cute?





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