Out of the Shelter

Interview with the 2011 Bark in the Park Spokesdog

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 18:47:00 +0000

Meet Carolina Girl, a.k.a. Girlie, an 8-year-old Yorkshire terrier who was recently named the 2011 Bark in the Park Spokesdog by the Chesapeake Humane Society (CHS). The title of the Spokesdog is given to the pet who, along with his/her human companion, had the highest amount of funds raised for the CHS Bark in the Park Dog Walk. All the funds raised benefit the homeless pets and the Chesapeake Humane Care Clinic which provides low cost spay and neuter.

I met Girlie and her wonderful human mom June during a photo shoot with them last week. And after the photo shoot, I also had the privilege of knowing Girlie some more through this brief interview:

How did you become the spokesdog for 2011 Bark in the Park?

My Mom and I collected $1,300 dollars for the Chesapeake Humane Society, and won 1^st place.

How does it feel being a spokesdog?

I am so excited! I get to meet new friends, walk in the Christmas parade, get my picture taken for a magazine, and hopefully help find new homes for my friends at CHS.

What’s your favorite food?

I like everything. My Dad is always giving me a taste of his food, and my Mom fusses at him.

What’s your favorite past time?

I love playing with my toys, riding in the car with my Dad , and meeting new friends.

Can you do any tricks?

I can sit, down, stay, and most fun is when I bow. People laugh. (See Girlie’s photo on the right for a picture of her bowing.)

I understand that you’re also a therapy dog. Could you explain what that means, and what you do as a therapy dog?

When I was a little, I went to school with a lot of other dogs to learn how to sit, stay, and mind my Mom. Then I had to take a test so I could visit people in hospitals to make them feel better, and go to the library and have kids read books to me (they always read the Big Red Dog). All I know is when the patients’ pet me, and I snuggle in their bed and give kisses, it makes my tail wiggle real fast. That is so much fun!

Any advice to your fellow canines?

Yes. Run and play with your toys, chew on your bone, enjoy every day, and at night snuggle in with your favorite friend.

See more photos of Girlie by visiting my photo blog Everywhere Photos.

Petsmart Adoption Event

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Thu, 25 Nov 2010 03:07:00 +0000

My husband and I enjoy volunteering with the Chesapeake Humane Society in their monthly adoption events at Petsmart. We love seeing the dogs come to Petsmart with the hope that they might find their new forever home that day. Off-site adoption events like this are one of the best ways to increase the chances of finding homes for orphaned pets.

Two weeks ago, we had seven dogs and eight cats from the Chesapeake Animal Control for the Petsmart Adopt-a-thon. The day started out slow with people just petting the animals or only wishing they could bring them home. There were no "serious takers." Then slowly, one-by-one, the cats were getting adopted. And then the dogs, too! At the end of the day, five dogs and all eight cats found their furrever homes. What a joy! :)

The Chesapeake Humane Society van which carries the adoptable dogs and cats

A Spitz was one of the lucky dogs who found a new family at the adoption event

Dog handler volunteers

A surprised kitty

For more behind-the-scenes photos of the November Petsmart adoption event, check out my Everywhere Photos blog.

Kitty Rides a Turtle Video

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Sun, 14 Nov 2010 16:41:00 +0000

It used to be the "owl and the pussycat." Now, it's the "turtle and the pussycat!" I stumbled upon this funny video of a cute black kitten riding on the back of a turtle. For more than a minute, the turtle does not seem to mind the cute kitty who is riding on his back comfortably. Where they are going, I think only the kitty knows. But with this video, I can't help but think of them "sailing away for a year and a day to the land where the Bong-tree grows."

Enjoy the video!

Hollywood Stars Who Shine for Animals

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Entertainment celebrities are often tapped to endorse a product, event or even a political candidate. That's because when they talk, many people listen. And it could be powerful when they use their influence for the greater good, like promoting animal advocacy. Here are 10 Hollywood celebrities who promote the adoption of homeless animals and battle overpopulation of pets:

1. Ellen DeGeneres
Comedian and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres has been recognized for her promotion of animal rights issues by various animal advocacy groups such as the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Aside from supporting several animal rescue groups, DeGeneres never fails to talk about animal adoption on her highly-rated TV show, The Ellen DeGeneres Show. DeGeneres is also a co-owner of all-natural pet food company, Halo.

2. Oprah Winfrey
Oprah Winfrey, one of the most influential women on the planet, has made “puppy mills” almost a household term. Thanks to her expose on the cruelty of puppy mills, many people have become aware of the realities behind dogs being sold in pet stores. In addition, her website, Oprah.com, also continues to promote animal welfare issues.

Oprah also walks the talk. Three of her dogs, a cocker spaniel and two springer spaniels, were adopted from PAWS, an animal shelter in Chicago.

3. Betty White
Even with her very busy schedule, Betty White never stopped helping animals in need. And now with her new wave of popularity, the Golden Girls superstar is busier than ever doing charitable activities including posing as the pin up girl for her own Betty White 2011 calendar. Proceeds from the calendar sale will go to the Morris Animal Foundation where White serves as a trustee. Currently, White is helping promote feline health awareness through the Foundation’s “Happy, Healthy Cat Photo Contest.”

4. Linda Blair
She may be known as a young possessed girl in the movie “The Exorcist,” but Linda Blair is really possessed by her strong love for the animals. Blair started the Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation, an organization that helps neglected and abused animals and save those that are in “death row.” Through the Foundation, she works with several rescue groups to find foster parents and eventually forever homes who will give these animals a second chance. Blair also educates communities about the horrors of dog fighting and the need for spay/neuter of pets to stop overpopulation of pets.

5. Katherine Heigl
Katherine Heigl, who is famous for her role as Dr. Izzie Stevens on Grey’s Anatomy, is a certified animal advocate. She and her mother established The Jason Debus Heigl Foundation which assists in funding the transport of animals from high kill shelters in Los Angeles, free spay/neuter of pets, and promotion of humane education.

6. Sarah Mclachlan
Who would not be touched by Sarah Mclachlan’s commercial for the ASPCA where sad abandoned pets are being shown while her song “Angel” is played in the background? It’s truly a tear jerker! Sarah’s support to the ASPCA commercial has helped the organization raise almost $30 million and brought nearly 200,000 new donors. Talk about an effective fundraising campaign!

7. Pamela Anderson
When the BP oil spill broke out, Pamela Anderson immediately thought of the animals that were affected by the crisis. When she learned about families leaving the areas hit by the oil spill and are abandoning their dogs, Anderson flew to New Orleans to save the canines. She teamed up with the People’s Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and rescued approximately 50 abandoned dogs. The dogs were then brought to the Virginia Beach SPCA for adoption.

8. Carrie Underwood
She may be an "American idol," but Carrie Underwood is also an idol to a lot of pet lovers. Carrie is truly an animal advocate and has helped a lot of lost and stray pets. She founded the C.A.T.S. Foundation in her hometown Oklahoma which helps with community issues including responsible pet ownership. Carrie was also tapped as a spokesperson for the Pedigree Adoption Drive.

9. Mary Tyler Moore
Combining her talent and love for animals with friend and fellow actress Bernadette Peters, Mary Tyler Moore decided to do something to help the animals by launching Broadway Barks in New York City. Broadway Barks is an annual dog and cat adopt-a-thon and fundraising event that benefits local animal shelters and rescue groups in the state. It involves Broadway stars and other celebrities presenting the adoptable dogs and cats.

10. Pierce Brosnan
Former Remington Steele and James Bond heartthrob Pierce Brosnan is a philanthropist supporting many causes including animal rights. In June this year, he donated his original artwork creation for the California Spay Neuter License Plate program that will help raise awareness and funds for subsidized spay and neuter for pets. His artwork featured his family’s dog Shilo and cat Coco.

Join "Project Dog"

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 01:16:00 +0000

Combining her passion for photography and her love for dogs, Kira Stackhouse is bringing together rescue dogs and recognized dog breeds of the American Kennel Club (AKC) through an exciting project simply called, “Project Dog.” Stackhouse, who is the owner/photographer of Nuena Photography in San Francisco, launched Project Dog as a new “grassroots movement” which aims to photograph each of the AKC’s more than 150 dog breeds and their equivalent rescue dogs, and create a book that will both entertain and educate readers about man’s best friend.

A dog search is now ongoing through the Project Dog website, www.joinprojectdog.com. If you would like your dog to be featured on the website or be possibly included in the book, simply submit some information and upload a photo of your pooch on the Project Dog website. Although submission is welcomed across the U.S., only dogs from major cities will be featured in the book. These cities include San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, Portland, Phoenix, Denver, Austin, St. Louis, New Orleans, Minneapolis, Chicago, Milwaukee, Knoxville, Atlanta, Miami, Washington DC, Philadelphia, New York and Boston. Once dogs are chosen, Stackhouse will start a cross country adventure to photograph the dogs. I really wish that the cities are not limited to the above mentioned, but I can understand the limitation if she’ll be doing a cross country road trip.

According to the website, Stackhouse has already received over 850 dog submissions, covering over half of the breed list. You can visit the website and browse the pages to check the submissions. Dogs are sorted by breed, so they’re easy to find. There is also a page dedicated to rescue organizations that are associated with each rescue dog.

A lot of people may not be aware that there are many rescue dogs that are purebred. I think this is a good opportunity to correct the misconception that you cannot find purebreds in animal shelters. Also, it’s not often that we see purebred and rescues together in one book, so this is something worth looking forward to. And, if you were counting the number of dog breeds earlier, yes, Stackhouse will be taking photos of more than 300 dogs for this project! I wonder if this will also go down into the Guinness Book of World Records for the most number of dogs photographed in a single book.

So, grab the best photo of your dog and participate in Project Dog now. And by the way, our adopted beagle Comet has been featured today on Project Dog. He's officially a star! :)

5 Best Selling Books on Dogs

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 19:26:00 +0000

Are you ready for some autumn reading? Here are five best selling books about dogs that are heartwarming and a joy to read. Feel free to post your comments if you have other recommended readings.

1. Red Dog

Already considered almost a classic, Red Dog is a collection of stories of Tally Ho, better known as “Red Dog” who charmed his way into the hearts of many “mates” in Western Australia. This book will make you laugh, cry and cheer for Red Dog as you read about his independence, adventures and loyalty to a man named John. Red Dog was written by Louis de Bernieres, who wrote the award-winning novel Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. For this book, De Bernieres got his inspiration from a famous bronze dog statue in Western Australia during his visit to the country in 1998.

2. The Art of Racing in the Rain

Meet Enzo, a dog whose main obsession is to become human. On the eve of his death, Enzo recounts his life from a dog's perspective - his relationship with his owner who is an ambitious race car driver, his relationship with his owner's wife and daughter, and his lifelong dream of someday becoming one of us. Throughout the book, Enzo gives a very good analogy of life and car racing. Beautifully written by Garth Stein, The Art of Racing in the Rain will give you some ideas of what your dog might possibly be thinking in some familiar situations. Be prepared with a box of tissue as you read through the pages of this book.

3. Marley and Me

Would you love a stubborn, mischievous dog? For author Josh Grogan, the answer is yes, no matter how difficult it was to train their dog Marley. This “dramedy” of a book is told like a journal and takes us into the issues of marriage, raising a family and a misbehaving yellow Labrador. I wonder if the Grogans have ever heard of Cesar Millan during the time when they were raising Marley.

4. A Dog's Purpose

We often read stories about man’s search for life’s meaning, but rarely do we read about dogs understanding their purpose on earth. This book shows a dog’s journey in four separate lives through reincarnation as he tries to see his purpose as a dog. Now I’m not a fan of reincarnation, but this book was wonderfully written with a lot of poignant and moving moments and laugh out loud scenarios. A Dog’s Purpose was written by W. Bruce Cameron who authored humor books How to Remodel a Man and 8 Simple Rules for Marrying My Daughter. I've read that this book is going to be a movie soon.

5. Amazing Gracie: A Dog's Tale

I first saw this book on a Wal-Mart shelf along with dog treats in their pet section. Gracie is indeed amazing and an unlikely canine who launched a bakery! It’s the story about a deaf and partially blind albino Great Dane named Gracie and how her sensitive stomach forced her owners to create homemade food for her. It’s an inspiring story of hope and salvation written by Three Dog Bakery co-founders Dan Dye and Mark Beckloff.

Videos of Dogs Praying

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 21:26:00 +0000

There's an interesting viral video going around about a dog named Djaingo who prays before eating his breakfast. I was so amazed when I've watched it and wondered if I could also teach our beagle to say grace before every meal. I must congratulate Djaingo's owner for teaching his dog to thank the real Master for his food. In case you haven't had the chance to watch it, here's a video of Djaingo saying grace before breakfast.

Interestingly, when I searched for "dog praying" on YouTube, there are many videos about dogs who know how to pray. Here are some cute videos that I've found (although I think Djaingo's video is still the best):

Southern dogs praying

Chihuahua praying

Great Dane praying

Black Cats Give Love Not Bad Luck

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 23:03:00 +0000

A black cat crossing your path signifies that the animal is going somewhere. - Groucho Marx

Black cats have been associated with witchcraft, sorcery and bad luck. It is no surprising that they have become one of the popular icons during Halloween. Sadly, this reputation might have also something to do with black cats having the lowest adoption rate in animal shelters and also the highest euthanasia rate. How unfair it is that black cats are ignored and persecuted simply because of their color!

I think Marx said it rightly. A black cat crossing your path does not have anything to do with bad luck. It is simply going somewhere. And the truth is, black cats give love NOT bad luck.They are no different from other cats. They can just be as rewarding as any pet. Let's help in stopping these myths against black cats. Here are some ways you can help:

1. Adopt a black cat. There is nothing more rewarding than saving a life. Black cats can be affectionate and loving too. Plus, they can be stylish (black goes with anything).

2. Help promote adoption of black cats. Volunteer at your local animal shelter or with rescue groups and help spread the word about black cats that are available for adoption.

3. Educate people about the truth. Start with your family and friends. Give the facts that black cats do not have anything to do with bad luck.

With Halloween coming up, NOW is the best time to help black cats find a home.

Photo: The beautiful kitten above is Simcoe who was recently adopted from the Chesapeake Humane Society.

October is "Adopt A Shelter Dog" Month

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 16:52:00 +0000

Annually, the ASPCA, the American Humane Association and other animal welfare groups celebrate October as "Adopt A Shelter Dog" month. During this time, there is increased efforts to heighten public's awareness on adopting a dog from a shelter instead of buying from pet stores. Shelter dogs have suffered from a lot of stigma and misconceptions. Contrary to the beliefs that they are unhealthy and untrained, shelter dogs give so much love and affection. We got our beagle Comet from an animal shelter and we are blessed to have him in our lives. Comet had a clean bill of health when we adopted him. His shots were updated, papers complete, and he even has a microchip! Also, Comet is well-behaved, house broken and crate trained. He is really a perfect dog!

Right now, thousands of dogs in animal shelters in the US are eagerly and patiently waiting for a family to bring them home. Shelters are becoming overcrowded with lots of people surrendering their pets or dogs that are left alone in the streets. We all have a role to play to help this over pet population. Please consider adopting a shelter dog. Or if you can not, how about donating your time or resources to help them?

Above photo: Bucky, a retriever mix puppy from Chesapeake Animal Control, who is in need of a forever home

We're walking for the homeless pets!

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 03:19:00 +0000

My husband and I are excited to participate in this year's Bark in the Park and join hundreds of walkers and their dogs to raise money for homeless animals on October 3 in Chesapeake, VA. This is a passion that is very dear to our hearts.

We've named our team Gehron's Comet in honor of our newly-adopted beagle, Comet. We adopted Comet from the Chesapeake Animal Control in June. He was surrendered by a family who couldn't take care of him anymore. Getting Comet was one of the best decisions we've ever made! He has been a blessing to us.

There are many homeless, loving animals in the shelter that are patiently waiting to find their “furever” home. We believe these homeless pets deserve a second chance to be given a decent home, a family and for them to show their unconditional love. As the Bible tells us, those who realize their need to be rescued will in turn show all the more love towards he/she who rescued them (Luke 7:40-47). Any adopted-pet owner has and continues to experience this love from their rescued pet.

Help us save more lives like Comet! Your donation will go a long way in caring for the homeless animals and helping them find a home. The Chesapeake Humane Society works and struggles to find loving homes for these animals. But because they do not receive any government subsidies, they are completely dependent upon private donors, such as you, for its funding.

Visit our page on First Giving to learn how you can help pets looking for a "furever" home.

Commendable Shelter Project

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 05:28:00 +0000

Brilliant minds in the advertising industry led by The Ad Council joined forces with compassionate groups The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and Maddie's Fund to increase awareness of pet adoption from animal shelters across the United States.

Called The Shelter Pet Project, the campaign aims to break the stereotype perception about animals that end up in shelters. It is also a call to action for people to consider adoption of shelter pets instead of buying from pet stores or other sources.

The Shelter Pet Project was launched in mid-2009 and includes a public service announcement featuring a talking dog who was ditched by his owner and explaining that not all animals that end up in shelters are "crazy or emotionally damaged." The Shelter Pet Project's website offers vast resources and useful links for anyone who is looking for the perfect pet and a forum to discuss questions about pet ownership.

Statistics from the HSUS and Maddie's Fund reveal that eight million pets enter shelters and rescue groups each year. Three million of these pets are healthy and treatable but are euthanized due to lack of adoption.

I commend the advertising industry for taking this initiative. Advertising can be a powerful medium to influence or change public's perception and I am glad that this industry realizes the big help that homeless animals need. Help spread the word about The Shelter Pet Project. Visit their website and learn how you too can be a voice for the homeless animals.

Best Buddy

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 16:17:00 +0000

Buddy is a red male German Shepherd Dog and Chow Chow mix that was surrendered to the Peninsula because his owners were moving and could not take him with them. Now, Buddy is looking for a new home where he could give his love and loyalty.

Buddy may already be 8 years old, but don't let that age fool you. He is still as charming as a puppy, and has the wisdom of an adult dog. He is a good dog that loves to run and chase a tennis ball. He understands basic commands such as come, sit, down, head down, off, stay, shake, and wave. He is totally a smart dog and would definitely make a wonderful addition to any household!

Buddy has been neutered, microchipped and tested negative for heartworm. For information about his adoption requirements, visit the Peninsula SPCA or call (757) 595-1399.

Celebrate Adopt-A-Shelter Dog Month

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 15:06:00 +0000

October is Adopt-A-Shelter Dog Month! Small dogs, big dogs, whatever size they come, dogs guarantee love and loyalty, and they bring health benefits too. Visit your local animal shelter and adopt a dog now!

Hey Pooch!

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 15:26:00 +0000

Pooch is a brindle and white female Boxer mix. She is approximately two years old and weighs about 50 lbs. She has been spayed, microchipped, and tested negative for heartworm.

Pooch is a sweet girl who shakes her behind when she’s happy to see you! With no tail to wag, she’s gotta shake something! Pooch loves to be petted and be given kisses. She’s a smart girl and would do exceptionally well in obedience classes, which we recommend for all adopted dogs. Take Pooch home today and give her the family she’s been looking for!

For details about Pooch's adoption requirements, please visit the Peninsula SPCA website.

Pet Adoption Ads

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 04:36:00 +0000

I made these several ads for the Peninsula SPCA:

Giving voice to the voiceless: Stop dog fighting!

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 01:38:00 +0000

Everyone should watch this eye-opening video about dog fighting from the point of view of the dogs themselves. I found this on the blog of Parker & Company and after watching it, I felt the need to repost it to further spread the awareness about the cruelty of dog fighting.

Michael Killen is the brilliant mind behind this video. After hearing about the Michael Vick dog fighting ring, Killen was moved to take action and let the dogs speak this time. You can read more about the making of this video through his website, Peace for Dogs.

Dog fighting is a serious form of animal abuse. Because of this barbaric and brutal "act", certain dog breeds such as American Pit Bull Terriers and Staffordshire Bull Terriers, are suffering the stigma of being branded as "aggressive dogs."

Sadly, dog fighting continues to be widely-practiced among many countries. Please help stop dog fighting. If you know any information about dog fighting in your area, please report them to the authorities. You may also sign this petition against dog fighting.

Start spreading the news...about Sinatra!

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 03:08:00 +0000

Start spreading the news....Sinatra is here!

Sinatra's a brindle male German Shepherd Dog and Boxer mix that is approximately 2 years old. He weighs about 50 lbs. He's got a big love and is a big goofball! He is very energetic and would love to have a lot of toys to keep his attention and energy focus.

Sinatra will be best suited for a home where the owners are used to big, strong dogs. He would benefit greatly from some obedience training, but with a little work, he will definitely make a fantastic pet.

Sinatra has been neutered, microchipped, and tested negative for heartworm. He is ready and waiting to find a new home where he will be loved for who he is.

To learn more about Sinatra's adoption requirements, please visit the Peninsula SPCA website or call (757) 595-1399.

Christian, the pet lion

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 13:09:00 +0000

Lion hug, anyone?

I was amazed at this video posted on YouTube about two guys who reared a young cub and named it Christian. However, they had to let it loose back into the wild in Africa after authorities thought there was not an ideal place for the lion in London. Watch and bawl:

Mama Mia!

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 16:21:00 +0000

Mama is a beautiful black female German Shepherd Dog and Chow Chow mix. She is approximately 3 years old and weighs about 45 lbs. She has been spayed, microchipped and tested negative for heartworm.

As her name suggests, Mama is very loving and likes to give kisses every now and then. A real Mama mia! Mama is also mature and seems to be friendly toward other animals (including deer as can be seen from her photo), although a proper introduction is still advisable. Mama is all set to go to her new home!

Mama is one of the adoptable dogs available at the Peninsula SPCA. Information about her adoption requirements can be found at the Peninsula SPCA website or call 757-595-1399.

Family Day Happy Endings

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 14:27:00 +0000

It was a happy ending for two Peninsula SPCA dogs as they found their forever homes during the “Sunday in the Park” Family Day held at the Peninsula Fine Arts Center in Newport News , VA on Sunday, July 20. Adopted were Toby, a male beagle and hound mix, and Hula, a female rough collie mix. Each went home happily with their new families.

The Family Day provided a great venue for the adoptable dogs to meet and greet families and hobnob with other dogs that came to the event. Even the sweltering heat did not hamper Toby, Hula and lovable senior dogs Lucy and Lany from mingling and charming park visitors.

The Peninsula SPCA joined other local groups for an afternoon of crafts, music and other fun activities. PSCPA product lines such as shirts, caps and chip clips were sold that day, while Petting Zoo tickets and “paw tattoos” were given out to lucky visitors. But what made the day for the PSPCA were the adoption of Toby and Hula, which both have found a loving family.

The Peninsula SPCA is a non-profit organization that provides shelter for animals that are surrendered by their families and animals that are caught by Animal Control. It serves the cities of Newport News, Hampton, York County and Poquoson in Virginia. It maintains an open-door policy accepting all animals regardless of age, health, temperament, or species. More information about the Peninsula SPCA and animal adoption can be found on its website, www.peninsulaspca.com.

Home again with a microchip

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 04:35:00 +0000

There's a story on NY Post today about a beagle named Rocco that has been found after missing for five years. Even the family who owns it could not believe that they have been reunited with their beloved pooch after all these years. According to the article, it was a "combination of chance and chip" that brought them together. But when a pet is lost, one may not have control on chances, but there is certainly something one can do with the chip part.

What is this chip anyway? A microchip is a tiny capsule, as small as a grain of rice, that is implanted in an animal's skin for identification. Consider it like the social security number for your pet. Each microchip contains a unique identification number. The chip is inserted between the shoulder blades for dogs and cats. Although the procedure does not require an anesthesia, it is usually quick and not traumatic for the animal.

When I first heard of microchipping on animals, I thought it is like a GPS navigator or a lojack for cars. But as high-tech as it may sound, a microchip does not work that way. It may not tell you where your pet is, but it serves as a useful identification both for your pet and you, as the pet owner. When a pet is lost or stolen, and is found and surrendered to an animal control office or taken to a shelter, it is scanned to check if a chip exists. If they detected a chip, the authorities call a recovery service and gives them the ID number and location of the animal. Thus, a reunion is set between a pet and its owner.

Many families have benefited from having their pets microchipped, as it prevents loss, theft and provides proof of ownership of the animal. It is more reliable than just buying a collar for your pet. Animal shelters are also microchipping animals before they become available for adoption. It is something that every pet owner should consider.

If you haven't done so, ask your veterinarian about microchipping. You'll never know when you might get separated from your pet. With its microchip, you can always have that hope that it can be home again.

Photo shoot with Koala

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:06:00 +0000

Taking photos of animals can be challenging. We may not be able to make them "pose", but the "natural poses" they do are far better than a staged one.

Here is a behind-the-scenes photo shoot with Koala, an adorable black and white female Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix:

Koala tries to be comfortable with her surroundings. However, she gets distracted by people coming in and out of the shelter. So, I tried to let her lie down and rubbed her stomach, which she totally loved.

Once she got comfortable, this little "love bug" showed how she can pose for the camera naturally:

Perfect shots Koala! But, I guess she got tired after doing those poses. Must be tough being a model.

She definitely deserved a treat after the photo shoot!

Koala can be adopted through the Peninsula SPCA. Koala has an outgoing personality and has lots of love and kisses to share. She has shown to be accepting of other dogs and would certainly want to have a little brother or sister to play with. She has been neutered and micro chipped. Please visit the Peninsula SPCA website or call (757) 595-1399 for more information on Koala or on other adoptable animals.

Update (July 14): Koala's been adopted! :)

The Fabulous FBI Working Dogs

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 14:53:00 +0000

I have always had a high regard for working dogs - those that are used for search and rescue, detect bombs and narcotics, and assist physically-challenged individuals. Working dogs are truly heroes, not just of the dog world but in the human world too. Just imagine the rigorous training and discipline they go through to perfect their "craft." That is why I was pleased to learn that the FBI has a dedicated website for their working dogs. I think it is one way of showing appreciation for such amazing canines.

Simply called FBI Working Dogs, the website is targeted at children to understand and learn how such dogs work. The site is very educational and explains about working dogs in a fun way - from the point of view of the dogs themselves, which are featured based on their duty.

For chemical explosives, there's Kurt, Power, Atwood, Bismarck and Disco. They can "sniff out" 19,000 different combinations of explosives. Wow, that's truly a lot to remember! Three of them are based in Washington, DC., one in Philadelphia and one in Los Angeles. I think Disco, being in Los Angeles, has the most "glamorous" duty, going to such events like the Academy Awards and the Golden Globe to help ensure safety of the Hollywood stars.

For detecting narcotics, there's Axel, a German Shepherd-Rotweiller mix, that was rescued from the pound. In her story, she mentioned about going through a truckload of pineapple searching for drugs. Yeah, that was "prickly" indeed!

The FBI also has Lady and Drago for search and rescue. They help during rescue operations especially when natural disaster strikes like earthquakes or hurricanes. They track people who are trapped or missing, and they can sniff them out even when they are underground or underwater.

Finally, there's Malea, a service dog. She knows 50 commands such as, turning on and off the light. But according to her, her favorite is "lap" where she put her front paws up while her handler gives her a hug. Malea is probably similar to those that wear a vest that says, "Don't pet me. I'm working."

These working dogs' stories are truly heartwarming. They work hard, but they play hard too. They take their duties seriously, but they never forget the "pet" side of them. But what is more interesting is, not all the dogs were from a special breeder. Axel, the narcotics dog, came from a pound, while Lady was adopted after she was hit by a car. Both are now helping rescue or protect people.

The next time you are thinking of getting a pet which you might want to train as a working dog in the future, check out your local animal shelter. You may just find the world's next canine hero.

For more information on the FBI Working Dogs, visit their website at http://www.fbi.gov/kids/dogs/doghome.htm.

Freedom

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 19:55:00 +0000

Today, the whole United States of America will be celebrating its independence day with patriotic parades, concerts and lavish display of fireworks. Its that time of the year to commemorate how the country earned its freedom from the Kingdom of Great Britain and become one of the freest nations of the world.

But freedom applies to all living creatures, not just to us humans. Inside animal shelters across America, dogs and cats are also dreaming of their own independence day. A day where they will be accepted into a loving family, out of the shelter.

Adopt a pet now!

In photo: Goldie, a 4-month-old Golden Retriever mix. She can be adopted through the Peninsula SPCA.

5 Important Things To Consider When Owning A Pet

noreply@blogger.com (Pink Paper) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 18:38:00 +0000

You come home tired from work and you see your pet excitedly welcoming you and giving you that unconditional love and loyalty. Truly, having a pet can be rewarding. Some people even say a house is not complete without Fido or a feline at home. But even with the great rewards, there is also a big responsibility attached to owning a pet.

So before you rush to the nearest pet store, consider these 5 important factors which may help you decide if you really are capable of owning one.

Own a pet for the right reason

Ask yourself why you want to have a pet. A lot of people wants to get a pet for the wrong reasons such as, make a money off of them or giving the animal as a gift. Dogs and cats are living beings. They are not toys you just play with and then disregard after you’re tired with them. Also, it is not good to get a pet just because your child wants one, unless they are old and mature enough to help care for the pet.

Committing yourself to give an animal a loving and caring home is the perfect reason for owning a pet.

Devoting Quality Time

As in every relationship, having quality time for your pet is important. They also need your attention. Evaluate your schedule if you can devote the much-needed time for your pet or if you are too busy to even feed it. Dogs, for instance, need their regular walk and exercise. Perhaps you can look at it this way, now you have more motivation to have a good exercise outside.

Financial Consideration

Not a lot of people are aware of the real cost involved in owning a pet. Regular check ups at a veterinary clinic, vaccinations, food and grooming are the regular expenses you need to shell out for your pet. Add to that the extra expenses like toys, treats and training. The average cost of owning a dog or a cat is estimated to be more than $1,000. With the prices of goods rising, evaluate your budget if you are capable of financially supporting a pet.

Providing a Good Place

Pets are family members, thus, they are also entitled to have a comfortable and appropriate place to stay in. They also need a good place to move around or a venue to jump and play. Chaining a dog outside the house is NEVER the proper place.

Also, if you are renting, make sure that the pet you want to own is in compliance with the guidelines of your landlord. I love big dogs and would like to own one. But since we are not allowed to have pets in our apartment (not even a fish!), we can’t have one yet.

Consider Adoption

What better way to find a pet than in an animal shelter. Visit an animal shelter and you might find a diamond in the “ruff.” Animals in the shelter can make good pets too. Plus, you can be sure that they have been vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and even microchipped. Talk to an adoption counselor who would be happy to help you find the perfect pet for you.

Also, check out several websites that provide listings of animal shelters and rescue groups and animals that are ready for adoption. Some of these websites are Petfinder.com, 1-800-Save-a-Pet, and Pets911.

Being aware of these factors is the first step to becoming a responsible pet owner. If you think you are not yet ready for such responsibilities, then you shouldn't be bringing an animal home, lest they might end up neglected or being surrendered to an animal shelter. Please remember that no matter what type of animal you want to get, animals also deserve love and respect from us humans.