I, for one, I’m thrilled the US is not an environmentally correct “paperless” society–at least, not just yet. Many of us still use snail mail to communicate with friends, mail in bill payments, send out wedding and other invitations and fill up our mailboxes with advertising materials. The more letters, the better!
That’s because the US Postal Service just launched their Animal Rescue: Adopt a Shelter Pet commemorative postage stamps as part of their Stamps to the Rescue promotional campaign.
Animal advocate Ellen DeGeneres announced the program on her show April 30, when the stamps went on sale nationwide. The loving pets you see in on the stamps are actual shelter pets photographed by veteran stamp photographer Sally Andersen-Bruce. She chose five cats and five dogs, and I’m happy to announce all ten animals were adopted from a shelter in New Milford, CT.
Postmaster General John E. Potter said, “This campaign will increase public awareness about sheltered pets, and our hope is that it will encourage pet adoption and promote humane and responsible pet care.”
Amen. Every year 6 to 8 million cats and dogs end up in animal shelters and, of that number, nearly half are euthanized. If everyone who wants a furry, four-legged companion chooses to adopt a shelter pet and spays/neuters their pet, we’d move toward eliminating not only a horrible end for these poor, sweet, defenseless animals, but we’d also help put unconscionable puppy mills out of business.
You can order the stamps from the postal service at StampsToTheRescue.com or by calling 1-800-STAMP24 (1-800-782-6724.) If you’re like me, you believe there’s nothing as wonderful as a beloved pet licking your face. Well, here’s your chance to lick back–and give another sweet pet the chance to love and be loved.
Thank you, US Postal Service, for caring so much, and thanks to every one of you who adopts your pets from shelters and animal rescue organizations. We have two incredibly loving rescued pets at home, and we simply can’t imagine life without them.
The Good Samaritan. You know the story. A man who had been beaten and robbed was left by the side of the road to die. Several people passed by, but no one help. Finally, a man–the Good Samaritan–stopped to help the man and get him to a place where he could stay.
Well, if there was ever a “Good Samaritan” in the animal world, this dog would be it. Amazed at the video, I just had to share. We often see trained animals step in to help someone and even pets do great things to save their families. Yet, rarely do you see a dog leap into action, based purely on instinct, to help another dog. But, that’s exactly what happened. Seeing another dog who had been struck and fatally injured on a busy highway, this pooch protector crosses THREE lanes of rushing traffic to pull the pup to safety and out of harms way. Take a look at this heartwarming video.
Doesn’t that make you just want to put a paw to your chest?! Here’s to the nameless hero who makes us all proud. If there was a dog who deserved a lifetime of dog treats it is this one. The care and concern this dog demonstrated for a complete stranger is amazing. I tell you, people could learn a lot from this dog!
Greetings, everyone! Max here with some exciting news! But first…
Admit it! Sometimes you cringe when a dog (or any dog, for that matter) gives you those big, sloppy, wet kisses on your face, don’t you? It’s not that you don’t love us like crazy. You just might find it a little icky from time. My mom and dad call it “getting slimed.” Well, the next time you get slimed, think about this…
FOX news reports researchers have found that the DNA on my tongue might be the key to new treatments for rare cancers in both humans and dogs.
According to FOX news, “The Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) and the Van Andel Research Institute (VARI), developed the Canine Hereditary Cancer Consortium, to understand why people and their pets get sick. The study used saliva, blood and tumor samples of dogs volunteered by private pet owners for testing in hopes that by studying canine cancer, oncologists can determine the cause of human cancers.”
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Why Dogs Matter!
“Rare diseases in humans also show up in dogs. By studying the DNA of canines, we expect to more quickly discover the genomic causes of disease and more quickly find ways to better treat dogs, and people,” said Dr. Mark Neff, director of the new TGen-VARI Program for Canine Health and Performance.
The testing, approved by the American Kennel Club and Morris Animal Foundation, will be animal-safe, and funding will be supported by private donors, along with a $4.3 million dollar federal stimulus grant.
They said cancer is the cause of death for nearly 50 percent of all dogs older than 10-years-old. Pretty scary, but I think I speak for all my canine comrades when I say we’re glad we can help change that for the better. Since my mom and dad found out about this, they let me slime them to my heart’s content!
Hearing someone say “When pigs fly”, you just know you’re never going to see whatever it is happen in your lifetime. You might have even heard someone scoff at the idea of a tax deduction for your pets. Well, honey, things are a changing!
Maybe not so much for those pigs flying, but if you’ve got one as a pet, there just might be a tax deduction on the way.
People have been trying to get tax deductions for their pets for years. And with legislation introduced by Rep. Thaddeus McCotter, R-Mich, pet owners may be able to deduct up to $3,500 per year for pet supplies, medical and pet care expenses, if it gets through Congress.
It’s called the HAPPY Act, which stands for Humanity and Pets Partnered Through the Years, and you can learn more about it at http://www.opencongress.org/bill/111-h3501/show.
Sounds like a great idea to us! Since we’re the only “kids” our parents have, we don’t see why they can’t get that tax credit. They love us just like they would human kids–even more so, I think! But until that happens, the only tax deductions you can currently get for your pets are for guide dogs, service dogs or animals directly related to your business.
With any luck, maybe when April 15th rolls around next year, we all can take advantage of this new bill. Just think, our Mom and Dad would not only get the benefit of having us around providing constant love and affection, but they’d also get the tax benefit, as well. It’s a win-win for everyone!
Ooooooh, Boy! Here’s a site we knew would pop up eventually! Since Mittens and I and the rest of our kind always get the most hugs, cuddles and kisses in our forever homes, we knew humans would want to get in on the act sooner or later. And here it is—HumanPets.com. Everyone on Human Pets is an animal. You can be fed, combed, pet, taken on trips, nicknamed, and more!
Customize Your Profile, and Then Buy Pets!
Are you a wolf, a cat, or a bird? Choose which animal you want to be and also pick a habitat. Then, check out all of the other human pets, and buy a few to take care of!
Search for Pets
You can find “human pets” near you, and become real life friends! Or, check out the random profile viewer and meet people from all over the world.
Besides online auctions, chats and blogs, games, discussion boards and classified ads, you can create similar interest groups known as “herds,” and discuss your hobbies with new friends. There’s an online market, so you can go shopping and find new items for your pets. You can even open up your own shop and earn virtual points from sales. We think they can take it even further!!
Let’s See How THEY Like It!
You know how much humans like to dress us up in ridiculous outfits they wouldn’t wear in public themselves? Well, Mittens and I think this Web site provides a great opportunity to turn the tables. After all, turn-about is fair play. You know how my Mom and Dad put me in dog sweaters every once in a while? I just suck it up and have fun with it, because it makes them happy. With this new site, you all have a chance to have your pet stroll the neighborhood streets au natural—naked, nude, like pets are supposed to be. Won’t that be fun!? America, get your cameras ready!
And your dogs! And your cats! And your horses! And your fish! Got a ferret, a frog, a hamster, a gerbil, a pot-bellied pig, a python, a rabbit or a chinchilla? No problem. If you’re looking for a place online where your pet, whatever it is, can connect with others of his or her species, we found it. Check out YouPet.com, where all are welcome and revered!
I love this site! Created for people who treat their pets like family (and that would definitely be me,) it features a health center and an encyclopedia of animals, where you can find out about hundreds of potential pets. There are also forums for all kinds of pets and some fun games.
Mostly, it’s about hooking up socially active pets and their people, encouraging inter-species connections, too. Just because you have a dog or a cat doesn’t mean you can’t “hang” with a fish or a rodent. You’re invited to create a free profile for your best friend, where you can share photos, videos and information about favorite activities, favorite toys, even the energy level of your pet. The site covers dog breeds extensively, and you’ll be happy to know the many breeds of cats, horses, fish, birds, etc. are given equal time.
Especially touching is Rainbow Bridge–a place on the site where people can memorialize the pets they’ve loved and lost. The page includes the beautiful work of an unknown author who wrote comforting words about where our deceased pets go and the extraordinary moment when we’re reunited with them.
And, of course, there’s a blog–Cindy’s Blog. She’s a former surgical veterinarian technician and education specialist for the Humane Society. Covering everything from ear mites to raising chickens as pets to heartwarming orangutan/dog relationships, Cindy gives great tips for caretakers of precious pets.
Why not head over there and browse awhile? I think you’ll be amazed, not just at the variety of pets people share their homes with, but the deep, enduring love at the heart of those relationships.
Hi! Max here! If you’re a dog-loving Internet surfer, you already know there’s no shortage of funny dog videos out there. As a species, we’re pretty darn amusing, which is why we’re such a popular pet. And that also means there’s always room for one more funny-dog-videos Web site! I think I’ve found a winner at FunnyDogSite.com. Like everyone else, I’m a sucker for puppies, and this site has some videos starring puppies and dogs that will melt everyone’s heart—including yours.
I’m particularly fond of the video with the dog in the swing. She (or he—I really couldn’t tell) seemed to be enjoying it, so I’m thinking of pushing Mom toward the park playground the next time we’re out to see if she’ll push me in a swing. The two salsa-dancing puppies are so cute, I just want to take them home! (Sound familiar?) If you’re like me, when you see stuff like this, it’s hard to wipe the smile off your face for the rest of the day! There’s a lot of other heartwarming dogs vying for your attention on the site, too, so check it out!
Just when you think there can’t be one more cute word added to the English language, they’ve gone and done it again! Snorable is what you get when you’re so adorable that even when you snore, you’re still irresistibly cute!
That’s the case with Toby. He’s a busy bulldog that’s always up to something–so much so that he has his own blog! Playing with friends and being the center of attention wherever he goes, he’s not one to shy away from the camera. But, I have to admit, I especially enjoyed reading about his trip to Granville Island, Vancouver B.C. and seeing all the cool pics. But the site is not just about Toby. They’ve got lots of helpful–and fun–information for dog lovers. As they say, it’s “Your daily dose of cute dogs and puppies.”
You can read all about him at www.snorable.org. And, if you think you’re snorable, too, post a picture. I know I sure will!
Lions and tigers and panthers! Oh, My! If you’ve been following the NCAA men’s basketball tournament, you’ve already noticed lots of cats were invited to the “Big Dance.” With so many of my species filling basketball courts all over the country, I’ve been glued to Mom and Dad’s big TV. For some reason, I’ve been watching with Dad most of the time. I had no idea cats could grow so tall. They run, run, run and pounce at the basket. Sometimes the ball goes in. Sometimes it doesn’t, and that’s because some dumb bulldog or golden gopher or jayhawk gets in their way. I don’t care who wins, but I’m sure hoping it’s some kind of cat! And I bet they get a lot of cat toys when they win!
Which Teams Have Cat Mascots?
The tournament starts with 64 teams, and 13 of those teams wear some kind of cat on their T-shirts and hats and stuff. That’s about 20% off all the teams in the tournament! Understandably, cats are pretty popular when you’re looking for a mascot that’s fierce, determined, persistent, competitive and, of course, lovable like me. Here’s a list of the tournament teams that have combat-ready catalysts for team spirit:
I’ll be the first to admit that, although my friends and I are loving dogs who would never hurt a fly, there are a few unsavory saps out there who would do much more than that. Terrorizing their neighbors like only a demon dog could, they’ve caused the number of dog attacks to continue to climb year after year. (Why don’t they just get some fun dog toys to play with instead?) And what’s worse, according to an article I just read in the San Francisco Chronicle, their owners are much to blame. Not just a problem in the states, London’s Home Office Secretary Alan Johnson said there was “no doubt that some people breed and keep dogs for the sole purpose of intimidating others. In a country where guns are tightly controlled and even carrying a kitchen knife can bring prison time, some thugs use dogs to menace their victims.” Shame on you for giving us a bad name!!
If it were only just a few bad apples…
I guess it would be different if there were only a few cases. But, there are reportedly 8 million dogs is Britain (yep, 8 million–that’s almost two times the human population of Atlanta where I live.) With what probably seems like a dog on every corner, the sheer volume alone would increase the chances of getting attacked.
With hospital admissions and court cases involving dangerous dogs on the rise, incidents went from 35 in 2002-2003 to 719 in 2008-2009, according to the Metropolitan Police. The number of dog-fighting complaints has also soared tenfold since 2004 with 284 reported cases in 2008. Egad!!
Help is on the way!
What are our four-footed friends and their parents across the pond thinking?! I’m not sure, but I’m glad that there’s proposed legislation to curtail this behavior and hold the owners responsible. If it passes, micro chips and pet insurance would be mandatory. At least this way, authorities could easily identify the owners of vicious dogs, and the insurance would ensure that victims got necessary treatment and compensation for their injuries.
The new legislation was proposed, and postal workers reportedly rejoiced–apparently they’re the butt of a lot of attacks in Britain, with approximately 6,000 incidents last year alone.
However, some don’t feel that it’s the right approach and would essentially create a “dog tax” because of the increased expense of insurance, which dangerous dog breeders could easily avoid getting. According to Ryan O’Meara, chief editor of K9 Magazine, “There is nothing in this that is preventative. If you put a chip in a dangerous dog, the bite will hurt you just as much.” So true, Ryan, so true…
I, for one, I’m thrilled the US is not an environmentally correct “paperless” society–at least, not just yet. Many of us still use snail mail to communicate with friends, mail in bill payments, send out wedding and other invitations and fill up our mailboxes with advertising materials. The more letters, the better!
Postmaster General John E. Potter said, “This campaign will increase public awareness about sheltered pets, and our hope is that it will encourage pet adoption and promote humane and responsible pet care.”
pet, we’d move toward eliminating not only a horrible end for these poor, sweet, defenseless animals, but we’d also help put unconscionable puppy mills out of business.
Greetings, everyone! Max here with some exciting news! But first…
Why Dogs Matter!
Hearing someone say “When pigs fly”, you just know you’re never going to see whatever it is happen in your lifetime. You might have even heard someone scoff at the idea of a tax deduction for your pets. Well, honey, things are a changing!
Ooooooh, Boy! Here’s a site we knew would pop up eventually! Since Mittens and I and the rest of our kind always get the most hugs, cuddles and kisses in our forever homes, we knew humans would want to get in on the act sooner or later. And here it is—HumanPets.com. Everyone on Human Pets is an animal. You can be fed, combed, pet, taken on trips, nicknamed, and more!
Besides online auctions, chats and blogs, games, discussion boards and classified ads, you can create similar interest groups known as “herds,” and discuss your hobbies with new friends. There’s an online market, so you can go shopping and find new items for your pets. You can even open up your own shop and earn virtual points from sales. We think they can take it even further!!
And your 
Especially touching is Rainbow Bridge–a place on the site where people can memorialize the pets they’ve loved and lost. The page includes the beautiful work of an unknown author who wrote comforting words about where our deceased pets go and the extraordinary moment when we’re reunited with them.
Hi! Max here! If you’re a dog-loving Internet surfer, you already know there’s no shortage of
Lions and tigers and panthers! Oh, My! If you’ve been following the NCAA men’s basketball tournament, you’ve already noticed lots of cats were invited to the “Big Dance.” With so many of my species filling basketball courts all over the country, I’ve been glued to Mom and Dad’s big TV. For some reason, I’ve been watching with Dad most of the time. I had no idea cats could grow so tall. They run, run, run and pounce at the basket. Sometimes the ball goes in. Sometimes it doesn’t, and that’s because some dumb bulldog or golden gopher or jayhawk gets in their way. I don’t care who wins, but I’m sure hoping it’s some kind of cat! And I bet they get a lot of
I’ll be the first to admit that, although my friends and I are loving dogs who would never hurt a fly, there are a few unsavory saps out there who would do much more than that. Terrorizing their neighbors like only a demon dog could, they’ve caused the number of dog attacks to continue to climb year after year. (Why don’t they just get some fun 
I guess it would be different if there were only a few cases. But, there are reportedly 8 million dogs is Britain (yep, 8 million–that’s almost two times the human population of Atlanta where I live.) With what probably seems like a dog on every corner, the sheer volume alone would increase the chances of getting attacked.
