Bark in the Park picnic rescheduled for November 5th.

Animal Friends has rescheduled this year’s Bark in the Park dog picnic for November 5, 2006 at 9:00 am. It has also been moved to the Caryl Gates Gluck Resource Center. Check the Bark in the Park website for more information.

 

Sandcastle Canine Pool Party September 9th

Sandcastle Water Park is hosting The Ultimate Canine Pool Party on Sept. 9, in which 300 dogs will be admitted. The larger dogs will have a chance to swim in the wave pool (sans waves) and those under 35 pounds will get their own smaller kiddie pool. Other festivities include a canine bathing suit contest.

The event is a fund-raisers that benefits Animal Friends.

Admission to the Sandcastle event is $15. Call Animal Friends at 412-847-7055 to register or for more details.

Community Education Dog Training Classes Fall 2006

Community College of Allegheny County is offering several community education dog training classes this fall. Starting September 16, 2006 they offer 8-week Puppy Kindergarten ($45) and Dog Obedience ($59) classes. Also, First Aid for Dogs ($35) and Shiatsu Massage for Dogs ($35) one-day seminars are scheduled in September and October.

Classes are available at Boyce, North, Allegheny and South Campus. There are also many other dog training opportunities in western PA.

Course Name and Title	Meeting Information	Location	Faculty	Cost
YBA-001-1101 Dog Obedience: Pup Kindergart	09/16/2006-11/04/2006 Saturday 02:30PM – 03:30PM, Exterior Space Boyce, Room UNPARK	Boyce Campus	A. Halloran	$45.00
YBA-002-1101 Dog Obedience	09/16/2006-11/04/2006 Saturday 01:00PM – 02:30PM, Exterior Space Boyce, Room UNPARK	Boyce Campus	A. Halloran	$59.00
YBA-002-1411 Dog Obedience	09/16/2006-10/21/2006 Saturday 10:00AM – 12:00PM, North Campus, Room 1111	North Campus	K. Rock	$59.00
YBA-012-1101 First Aid for Dogs	09/16/2006-09/16/2006 Saturday 12:00PM – 03:00PM, West Wing, Room W415	Boyce Campus	C. Ginter	$35.00
YBA-012-1211 First Aid for Dogs	09/23/2006-09/23/2006 Saturday 09:30AM – 12:30PM, Milton, Room M109	Allegheny Campus	L. Paluti	$35.00
YBA-012-1540 First Aid for Dogs	10/09/2006-10/09/2006 Monday 06:30PM – 09:30PM, B Building, Room B511	South Campus	L. Paluti	$35.00
YBA-014-1210 Shiatsu Massage for Dogs	10/14/2006-10/14/2006 Saturday 01:00PM – 04:00PM, VAC, Room V012	Allegheny Campus	T. Chaney	$35.00

Bark in the Park – Pittsburgh’s Biggest Picnic for Dogs on August 27th

Animal Friends is holding this year’s Bark in the Park dog picnic on Sunday, August 27 from 9 am until 1 pm in North Park, South Ridge Loop. Sponsored by Del Monte Pet Products and hosted by Jim Krenn.

Cutting Edge Pet Fashions

The New York Pet Fashion Runway Shows will present cutting-edge product innovations and the latest trends in pet fashions…a trend vision of what the future in pet fashion / accessories / products holds.

Pet Fashion Week NY ‘06 is the only all pet-accessory & product trade event in the world exclusively targeting high-end and innovative products.

Dog Park Etiquette and Perils

I love my local off-leash dog park! Unfortunately, some dogs and their handlers make my visits less than ideal.

In today’s mail, the September issue of The Whole Dog Journal arrived. It has an exceptional article about off-leash dog parks. It is subtitled: Rules of Dog-Park Etiquette and Deportment for Dogs and their Handlers.

It details many common problems, gives advice and has a list of simple rules to make these parks a healthy and happy place for all dogs and humans.

Rescuing Dogs in the Line of Fire

In times of emergency, the suffering of companion animals is often overlooked. We saw this in New Orleans a year ago. Now, the conflict between Israel and Lebanon has put many animals in the line of fire. There are heroic efforts underway to relieve their plight.     

Washington Area Humane Society Volunteer Meeting August 22nd

On Tuesday, August 22, 2006 the Washington Area Humane Society (WAHS), a no-kill shelter, is holding a Volunteer meeting at King’s Restaurant on Route 19 at 7:00 p.m. Volunteers are needed for shelter activities, fundraisers, pet therapy, fostering animals, vet care, grooming, etc.

“Dog Night” at PNC Park on August 29th

The Pittsburgh Pirates have joined a growing list of Major League Baseball teams sponsoring a “Dog Night.”

Your dog is welcome (one dog per person) at PNC Park on Tuesday, August 29th, 2006.

Watch the Pirates play the Cubs with your WHOLE family. Plenty of “pup-friendly” pre-game activities are planned as well…     

Chinese Explain Dog Slaughter

Statement on cases of rabid dog bites in Yunnan Province

Dogs of the Sewickley Valley Poster

By Adam Brandolph – Sewickley Herald Staff Writer – Dogs can get slippers, the newspaper and fleas, but only a Sewickley-area dog can help raise money for an independent preparatory high school in Pittsburgh.

The Child Health Association of Sewickley (CHAOS) is conducting a new fundraiser and promotion for its annual black-tie event in November by producing a poster featuring — who else? — the dogs of the Sewickley Valley.

At $25 for each puppy picture, CHAOS hopes to raise at least $2,000. Cost is $15 for additional dogs from the same owner.

The 25-inch by 39-inch poster will feature 100 pooches from owners who reside in the Quaker Valley School District.      Read More »

Mad Dogs in China

China has a rabies epidemic. The virus killed an estimated 2,400 Chinese in 2005. Dog bites were the most common cause of transmission to humans.

In response, local officials have started culling all dogs in rabies affected areas. In southwest China, 50,000 dogs were culled/killed/slaughtered in Mouding County, Yunnan Province.    

“The Dog Diet” talk in Shaler CANCELLED

“The Dog Diet” author Patti Lawson and Sadie have cancelled a luncheon and book signing program at Shaler North Hills Library, 1822 Mount Royal Blvd. She was to talk about her healthy lifestyle and new book from 1 to 3 p.m. Aug. 12. Call 412-486-0211.

Editorial: Dog days / China is coping cruelly with a rabies problem

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – Admittedly, Americans adore and pamper their pet dogs, with vaccinations, professional clipping, even booties. Some owners take bereavement days when their pets die. Veterinarians send condolence cards. The beloved creature may be cremated and the ashes ensconced in an urn displayed on the mantle.

China is a different story. There, only 3 percent of dogs are vaccinated against rabies, perhaps because the shot costs $25, far more than the price of a pet. The country has the world’s second-highest rabies infection rate in humans, and last year 2,375 Chinese people died of the disease.

The official response to that situation was not vaccinating the dogs. China slaughtered them instead.     Read More »

Newfoundland Club of America Water Test at Pymatuning State Park this Weekend

The Penn-Ohio Newfoundland Club will sponsor the 18th Annual Newfoundland Club of America Water Test at Pymatuning State Park in Jamestown, PA on August 12 and 13, 2006. The Water Test Premium List is available as a PDF File. Contact: Bethany Karger at bethanykarger@verizon.net.

Directions to Pymatuning State Park from Pittsburgh: Take I-79 North to US 322 and Route 6 exit at Meadville. Stay on US 322 West through Jamestown and approxiamately 2 miles past Jamestown make a right into Pymatuning State Park. Make an immediate right onto the Park road and cross the dam to the test site on the left. [Pymatuning State Park, 2660 Williamsfield Road Jamestown, PA 16134 (724) 932-3141]

Penn’s Woods Pointing Dog Trainers A.K.C. Hunt Test Saturday

Penn’s Woods Pointing Dog Trainers will hold a Hunt Test at the Oak Ridge Pointing Dog Club grounds in Rimersburg, PA on August 12, 2006. They will run two continuous courses — one for Junior and one for Master and Senior Dog events. The Hunting Test Premium List is available in PDF format.

The Annual Pig and Turkey Roast will be conducted after Saturday’s events. A small food fee will be charged for Non-Club Members. Campsites are available. Contact Hunt Test Secretary Linda Reutzel, 724-744-3825.

Directions to the Oak Ridge Pointing Dog Club Grounds from Pittsburgh: Take Route 28 North through Kittanning. Proceed North on Route 22/66 into the town of New Bethlehem. After crossing a bridge with convenience store/gas station on the right, make next left. Follow this road across railroad tracks to the end. Make a left onto Route 861. Proceed on 861 until the junction with Route 68. Make a right onto Route 68. Look for signs for the Hunt Test. It will be the second main road. Make a right. Proceed about 1/4 mile and make a right onto a gravel road.

Obituary: Susan Butcher / Four-time Iditarod champion who brought attention to race

By Jeannette J. Lee – AP – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – Four-time Iditarod champion Susan Butcher, who in 1986 became the Alaskan sled dog race’s second female winner and brought increased national attention to its grueling competition, has died. She was 51.

Ms. Butcher died Saturday in a Seattle hospital of a reoccurrence of leukemia after a recent stem-cell transplant, her doctor said.     

Pet project nears completion

By Laura Wilcox – TRIBUNE-REVIEW – Four Footed Friends in Indiana County — a sanctuary for unwanted animals until they find permanent homes — will move soon to a spacious, new facility.    

PA Turnpike Plazas May Get Dog Walking Trails

By Joe Grata – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has signed a 30-year deal with HMSHost Corp. to redevelop travel plazas in exchange for operating, maintaining and making over $100 million worth of improvements at the facilities.

The state-of-the-art plazas are to include Internet access for wireless laptop computers, food courts, special services for tractor-trailers, dog-walking trails and restroom attendants at the busiest sites.    Read More »

Keystone Waterfowlers Hunting Retriever Club August Training

Keystone Waterfowlers Hunting Retriever Club will hold training sessions Aug. 20, 2006 at 9 A.M. Call Doug Ross at (724) 468-0312 or email dcross6usa@netscape.net.

Pleasant Hills Dog License Fee Quintupled

Pleasant Hills Borough Council approved an amended ordinance that substantially increases the costs of many services in the borough. The dog license fee was increased from $2 to $10. Also, if you own exotic pets, please contact the borough office at (412) 655-3300 for new permit information.

Pittsburgh Zoo African Wild Dog Grand Opening

African Wild Dog Grand Opening - Sunday, August 6, 2006 at the Pittsburgh Zoo, Pittsburgh can celebrate the grand opening of the new African wild dog exhibit. There will be live African dancing and drumming performances, African mask making, introductions to the wild dog keeper and a chance to see the dogs receive special treats.

Dog slaughter in China to fight rabies

By Quentin Sommerville – BBC News, Shanghai – A county in south-west China has ordered all 50,546 dogs to be killed to fight a rabies outbreak which has killed three people, state media say.

It has taken five days, but authorities in Mouding County in south-west China say they have killed almost all of the 50,000 dogs in the area.

Some of the dogs were clubbed to death in the street as their owners watched.     

Twilight Walk in Peters brings out people, their pets for Montour Trail fund-raiser

By Janice Crompton – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – As many as 500 people turned out last weekend for the Montour Trail’s fourth annual Twilight Walk in Peters, which is part fund-raiser, part fitness promotion and part block party, a very long block party.

There were almost as many dogs as walkers during the event July 21. For a $5 entry fee, participants walked about 1.5 miles on the Arrowhead Trail along Valleybrook Road, from My Big Fat Greek Gyro and Farmhouse Coffee to the St. Petersburg Ice Creamery.     

Babies, pets can bond

By Linda Wilson Fuoco – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – The pretty cocker spaniel puppy was welcomed with great enthusiasm into a home where she quickly became the much-loved center of attention. All was well until the new baby arrived, and the dog was banished from the house. Tethered to a dog house in the back yard, she sulked, misbehaved and ultimately ran away.

That particular dog is the fictional “Lady” from the 1955 Disney animated movie “Lady and the Tramp.” But the situation is true to life. The arrival of a new baby is a life-altering event for people and for pets, who often fare far worse than Lady.    

Laps for Learning PAWS Walk Looking for Sponsors

Laps for Learning PAWS Walk is scheduled for Saturday, October 14, 2006 at the Mall at Robinson from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., spotlighting Paws With A Cause Assistance Dogs. Bring the family, including the dog and enjoy watching the fun all day!

Paws With A Cause and The Mall at Robinson will be hosting this fun-filled day with events such as pony rides, a petting zoo, children dress-up and games, doggie dress-up and games, train rides, pumpkin patch, flea market, a dancing dog, and dog music played by Shrimper Dan and more!! For information or Sponsorship Opportunities contact Penny Layne, Pennsylvania Regional Liaison at 412-264-0366.

‘Bridal party’ puts on the dog for entertaining canine ceremony

The bride wore fur — so did the groom – By Linda Wilson Fuoco – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – There’s nothing like a wedding to elicit tears and smiles from assembled guests, even when the bride and groom and all of the attendants are canines.

The bride, a collie-mix named Peaches, wore a white satin “gown” and a frothy tulle veil. The groom wore the built-in tuxedo he was born with, for Buck is a Bernese mountain dog with a mostly-black coat and a white chest. All he needed to complete the look was a black collar with a bow tie, nestled in the white fur under his chin.    

Lucky place to be a dog

‘This is the cause that found us,’ says Angel Ridge Animal Rescue owner – By Lynda Guydon Taylor – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – Five dogs followed Nancy Shannon to the top of the hill as if she were a Pied Piper of the animal kingdom. Along the way, a German shepherd and a mixed-breed collie playfully nipped at one another in their version of tag.

Before reaching the summit, the site of her contemporary brick home, Mrs. Shannon pointed to one of three dog “condos,” a 12- by 24-foot home for handicapped canines. The air-conditioned quarters are furnished with dog-size cots and surrounded by a large fenced-in yard where dogs can run, play and bark as much as they like.

Pup gets a taste of future as therapy dog

By Margaret Smykla – Tri-State Sports and News Service – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – As she grows, Anastasia will find she not only has almost two dozen fashionable outfits to grow into, but she also has some very big shoes to fill.

Anastasia, a 16-week-old Rottweiler, is in training to be a pet therapy dog and took a large step toward that goal Sunday at the annual Family Day at the Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children in Oakland.For her first visit, Anastasia, wearing a head band and bikini top with coordinating skirt, had students, families and staff laughing as she licked hands and faces.     

Wolf dogs killed owner, autopsy determines

By Linda Wilson Fuoco and Chico Harlan – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – Sandra L. Piovesan bled to death after being mauled by a pack of nine wolf dogs that she had raised as pets and was so devoted to that she once told a neighbor they “give me unqualified love.”

Ms. Piovesan, 50, of Salem, was found Monday morning in a caged rectangular enclosure in her backyard, home for nine half-wolves, half-dogs that were later euthanized. The autopsy, performed by Dr. Cyril H. Wecht, found that the Westmoreland County woman suffered multiple soft tissue injuries.

Woman’s body found in pen of 9 hybrid wolves

By Moustafa Ayad – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – The body of a Westmoreland County woman was found mauled inside a pen where she kept a pack of nine hybrid wolves, but authorities were awaiting results of an autopsy to determine whether she was killed by the animals or died of an illness.

The body of Sandra L. Piovesan, 50, of Salem, was found inside the 40-foot by 150-foot enclosure she kept in her backyard, where she raised the nine part-wolf and part-dog canines. Mrs. Piovesan’s body was intact but had been partially eaten.

Unto, popular former Bethel Park police dog, dies

By David Templeton – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – Unto, the popular police dog who retired from the Bethel Park Police Department last year due to paralysis, has died at the age of 8.

A Bethel Park K-9 officer since March 2001, Unto suffered from a degenerative disease that initially attacked his spine, leaving him partially paralyzed in January 2005, when he was forced to retire. He was put down at 2:35 p.m. Thursday in the arms of his partner and handler, Officer Frank Marks.

Meet Mt. Lebanon’s K-9 Team

Mt. Lebanon Public Library hosts “Barks and Badges” for kids entering grades 1 – 5 on Thursday, July 13th, 2006 from 1 to 2 p.m. Meet Mt. Lebanon’s hairiest police officer. Location: Meeting Room A- Lower Level. Contact: Judy Sutton (412) 531-1913.

The cat’s curious as 4 African wild dogs join zoo neighborhood

By Anita Srikameswaran – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – Jasmine the Cheetah had the best view of the four African wild dogs that yesterday became her new neighbors at Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium.    

Hospice Provider Requests Pet Therapy Volunteers

Odyssey HealthCare, a hospice provider, is seeking volunteers to visit with and provide emotional support to hospice clients. Volunteers are needed to converse with or read to clients and stay with them while their caregivers go to appointments. Volunteers are not involved with personal care, feeding, transportation or medication.

Volunteers are needed to work with clients in Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Lawrence, Washington, and Westmoreland counties.

Volunteers also are needed to provide pet and music therapy, create crafts for clients and help with administrative tasks in the hospice provider’s Robinson office. For more information, call Barbara Coulter at 1-800-861-8584.

Murrysville park to have diverse appeal (including dog park)

By Laurie Bailey – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – The Murrysville Parks and Recreation Department unveiled an initial master plan last week for a park slated to fit the needs of all.     

Pet stocks can endure tough markets

By Karen Richardson – WSJ – Even when times are tough, pet lovers typically don’t scrimp when it comes to health care for their furry and feathered friends.That is lucky for pets — and for the companies that make money providing veterinary care.    

NextSteps: Pets are survivors, too, and require planning

By Jan Warner and Jan Collins – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette -
Q: I am unmarried, in my late 70s, have no children and am financially OK. I never thought much about doing any type of planning because I receive enough income from Social Security and my teacher’s retirement to take care of me; I am very healthy for my age (knock on wood!), and I own my house and have no debt.

Of late, I have become concerned, however, about my two dogs, ages 4 and 8, and my cat, who is 7, if I need a nursing home or die. I checked with my veterinarian, who told me he would be happy to board them, but I can’t bear to think about my “children” being caged like that. I want to make sure someone takes care of them who will treat them kindly if I am not able to do so. These guys are the only members of my family, and I love them deeply.    

In pet custody battles, courts treat animals as property

By Sally Kalson – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – In a divorce, pets are considered property and treated as such by courts in this state and others. That doesn’t stop people from loving them like family and, at times, fighting over an animal’s “custody” as bitterly as they would over children.

In one recent local example, Ritchie Scaife attempted to make off with Beau, the dog of her estranged husband, Pittsburgh Tribune-Review publisher Richard Mellon Scaife. According to police, she saw the yellow Labrador being walked outside his Shadyside home and tried to wrest the animal away, attacking Mr. Scaife’s maid, secretary and security guard in the process. The dog, she said, had been taken from her residence the day before.    

Meet a Seeing Eye Dog in McCandless

The Northland Public Library on Cumberland Road in McCandless will host Meet a Seeing Eye Dog Thursday, June 29, 2006 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. No registration is required. Contact: Children's/Young Adult Department at 412-366-8100 extension 123.

"Have you ever wondered what a seeing eye dog does, or how one is trained? Join us as Lisa Motta demonstrates commands and shares her seeing eye dog's talents with school-age children."

 

Calming with the canine

By Ben Muessig – Tribune-Review – Toby slowly extended his front paws in a stretch, and a room of adults followed his lead, learning the Downward Facing Dog pose from a downward facing dog.

Before the first "doga" class at Animal Friends last Sunday, dogs barked and yelped, socializing with their leashes dragging behind them. By the end of the class, the room had become calm with relaxing dogis wagging their tails.

"The most important thing is the connection between you and your dog," said Leta Koontz, founder of Schoolhouse Yoga in Lawrenceville, who instructs alongside Toby, her golden retriever. Her doga classes are light on exercise and meditation, but heavy on bonding.     

Pet Sitters International’s Take Your Dog To Work Day

Today is: Take Your Dog to Work Day!!

Police dog to help in drug prevention

By Joan Greene and Greg Latshaw – Tribune Review – A drug-sniffing dog will patrol Seneca Valley starting this fall, the latest drug-prevention tactic at a district known for its aggressive anti-drug policies.     

Honesty is best when a family is losing pet

4 Kids Early Learning Network Post-Gazette column – Q. Our family's dog is very old and he'll have to be put to sleep one of these days. I know it will be hard on my two younger kids, who are 3 and 4. Is there any way I can prepare for this?

A. Often, the death of a pet is a young child's first experience with the loss of a loved one. It's difficult — but preparation and honesty can help.      

Rescued springer spaniels romp at picnic

By Linda Wilson Fuoco – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – Sunny but pleasantly cool weather was a perfect recipe for a picnic in South Park Saturday, especially because many of the participants were wearing fur coats. More than 30 English springer spaniels romped and frolicked with the people who have given them a second chance at a happy life.

People and dogs traveled from all over Pennsylvania and surrounding states for the Mid-Atlantic English Springer Spaniel Rescue picnic. The group takes in dogs whose owners are unwilling or unable to keep them.     

Dog park progress slow-going

By Kathryn Sheranko – Cranberry Journal Staff Writer – For canine owners in Cranberry, fundraising is no walk in the park.

But township residents involved in planning the proposed dog park are nothing if not enthusiastic.

The recently-formed Cranberry Citizens for a Dog Park launched a campaign just before Memorial Day soliciting area businesses and community organizations for donations. However, responses are few and far-between.      

Carnival time in Saxonburg

Valley News Dispatch – The 75th annual Saxonburg Carnival kicked off with a thousand whimpers.

 The pet parade, a yearly staple and family favorite of this small, quaint town, was not your typical dog-and-pony show — it showcased a variety of animals.

Children and adults of all ages herded bunnies, dogs, hens, guinea pigs, turtles, llamas, goats, horses — and Trixie, a winner for the Most Unusual Pet. Her owners proudly displayed a sign that said: "Trixie: Saxonburg's only three-legged cat!"     

For Disabled Travelers, Many an Obstacle Along the Way

By SARA J. WELCH – NYT – In March, Carol Cocuzzi and her boss flew to Denver on a business trip. When they arrived, two men who worked for a company hired by the airline came aboard to help Ms. Cocuzzi, who uses a wheelchair, get off the plane.     

Dog will sniff out drugs at Seneca Valley

By Ken McCarthy for the Post-Gazette – Two dogs are joining the Jackson police force, and one will walk the halls with students on the Seneca Valley School District campus.

Jackson police have added a drug-sniffing dog to the force, and police Chief Len Keller said the dog would be in school regularly.

"It will greatly enhance what we can do over there," he said, referring to the campus, the site of the intermediate high and senior high schools. "The dog will be a constant presence."      

Washington Area Humane society launches anniversary event

By Ron Paglia – FOR THE TRIBUNE-REVIEW NEWS SERVICE – Washington Area Humane Society is celebrating its 100th year as a nonprofit shelter for abandoned, orphaned and neglected pets. And it's inviting the public to join the festivities with a unique event.

"A Hundred 'doptions in a Hundred Days" is the theme of a community challenge that began Thursday.     

Mid-Atlantic English Springer Spaniel Rescue Picnic, June 10 in South Park

By Linda Wilson Fuoco – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – People will be seeing spots, and freckles, at a picnic in South Park on June 10, 2006 sponsored by Mid-Atlantic English Springer Spaniel Rescue.

A highlight will be a "parade of rescues," springers that were placed in new homes after their owners became unwilling or unable to care for them.

Steps put pets on top of the world

By Linda Wilson Fuoco – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – While many people struggle mightily to keep dogs off couches and beds, other people are producing and promoting products that make it easier for dogs to gain access to furniture designed for humans. Have you seen the television commercials for Doggy Steps?     

Canine Mutiny: Dog Owners Fight Insurers

By M. P. MCQUEEN – WSJ.com – State Lawmakers Aim to Stop Practice of Denying Coverage To Homes With Certain Breeds – Dog owners are biting back at the insurance industry.

There is a push by lawmakers and animal-welfare groups to ban the growing insurance-industry practice of refusing to write homeowners' policies for people who own dogs of certain breeds. Some big insurers, including Allstate Corp. and Farmers Insurance Group, won't cover homes in some states if certain breeds are present. Others exclude the breeds from liability coverage or charge extra for it. The so-called vicious-breed lists include such popular pooches as German shepherds, Akitas and Siberian huskies, along with Alaskan Malamutes, Chow Chows, Doberman Pinschers, American pit bull terriers and their cousins.     

Dogs have nose for drugs in Armstrong County

By Tom Mitchell – Kittanning Leader Times – They can't read or write, but they are "bilingual" and they have a discerning sense of smell. And anyone who gives their bosses a bad time may find that their bite is far worse than their bark.

Three "drug dogs" report for work almost every day to several law enforcement agencies in Armstrong County. Their names are "Sir Gallahad," "Hera," and "CoCo."

Perhaps the best known of this K-9 trio is Sir Gallahad, or simply "Gallahad" to his friends. Gallahad's trainer and handler is Earl "Bud" Floyd, a deputy of the Armstrong County Sheriff's Department. Floyd said Gallahad, a German Shepherd, joined the department in April, 1997. Gallahad, who will turn 11 in September, makes his home with Floyd and his wife "Honey," in Boggs Township.      

Guide dog training gets warm welcome in China

CHINAdaily.com.cn – DALIAN: "Stop. Sit. Go!" You Liang, 33, instructs "Stone," a Labrador Retriever, at a simulated crossing in Dalian. 

A trainer with a seeing-eye dog training center in Dalian Medical School plays with a dog named "QQ" May 17, 2006. Six seeing-eye dogs are to become the first batch of graduates from the center next month, and will be put up for adoption. People with impaired eyesight can fill out an application and wait for approval from the China Disabled Persons' Federation. [Xinhua]

You and Stone are taking training courses at the China Guide Dog Training Centre, established late last month, in this city in Northeast China's Liaoning Province. The centre is the first of its kind in the country.    

Dogs, cats in need to get a chance for fun at fair

By Linda Fuoco – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – It's not every day that a dog gets a chance to attend a church fair, so June 24 will be a big day out for a dog named Tank, for dozens of other canines and felines and, perhaps, for a parrot or ferret or two.

For some lucky animals, it could be a life-altering event.

The third annual Pet Adoption and Care Fair at Christ United Methodist Church in Bethel Park has three goals: educate the public about pets and pet care; have a bit of fun meeting and greeting animals, playing games and eating fair food; find permanent homes for animals that are living in shelters or with volunteers from rescue groups.

Fire marshal uses Coal to probe crime scenes

By Jill King Greenwood – TRIBUNE-REVIEW – Coal flunked a seeing-eye dog training school in Virginia.

But the high energy and curiosity that made the black English Labrador retriever a bad candidate to lead a blind person made him perfect for sniffing out the source of suspicious fires.

Coal, 4, works for the Allegheny County Fire Marshal's Office, and is the only canine certified by the U.S. bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in accelerant detection in Western Pennsylvania, said his handler, Chief Deputy Fire Marshal Donald A. Brucker.

Man sues vet over dog’s death

By David Hunt – TRIBUNE-REVIEW – A basset hound's induced death in 2004 has led a Hempfield Township man to file a five-count malpractice lawsuit Thursday in Westmoreland County court.

Randy Slagle, 55, is suing Cathy M. Schweingruber and East Suburban Animal Hospital, of Export, over an allegedly hasty decision to euthanize 11-year-old Ezekial Watson Slagle.

Woof and Whisker Walk – Butler County Humane Society

The Butler County Humane Society's Woof and Whisker Walk is June 10, 2006 at the Deal shelter in Butler Memorial Park, rain or shine.

Registration begins at 9 a.m.; the 2-mile fun walk begins at 10 a.m. Activities are planned for dogs, adults and children. Dogs must be 6 months old with a valid license. Refreshments will be served.

For more information or to register, call 724-789-1150.

West Deer Township Rabies Clinic

Rabies clinic from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 27, 2006 at the West Deer Dog Shelter, 109 E. Union Road. Cost is $6 per inoculation. Proceeds benefit the shelter.

For more information, call 724-265-3680.

Beef-flavored beer for dogs available online

By Bob Batz Jr. – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – Lots of dog-owning beer drinkers know how much dogs like beer. But did you know there's a beer made especially for dogs?    

Sto-Rox Middle School bans dogs

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – A problem with dog owners has prompted the principal at Sto-Rox Middle School on Ewing Road to erect signs banning dogs from school grounds.

Principal Janell Logue-Belden said this week that she was getting the signs for health and safety reasons after nine months of recurring incidents which left "a few spots" of dog waste on the property. She said the signs would be similar to those on nearby ball-field property.

Dieting With Dog Helps Lose Weight

WPXI-TV - PITTSBURGH – People read books and try all kinds of products, but the weight loss answer may be as close as the nearest animal shelter.

The latest way to lose weight has a little more bite to it.

It's the dog diet. (www.thedogdiet.com)

Dog Dieter Credits Canine With Eating Tips

John Cater Reporting – (KDKA) PITTSBURGH – It has been said that a person can find their key to a successful diet by looking at life through the eyes of their dog if they're willing to listen.

North Side Animal Walk

The 17th annual Animal Walk on the North Side of Pittsburgh will be held Sunday, May 28, 2006.

Collect pledge money and walk 5 kilometers with your pet to benefit Animal Care and Welfare, the Animal Rescue League of Western Pennsylvania, the Western Pennsylvania Humane Society, the Homeless Cat Management Team, Going Home Greyhounds and the National Aviary.

On-site registration starts at 9 a.m. at the National Aviary, on Arch Street and West Ohio Street.

For further information call 412-231-6500.

GTOTC Agility Trial Memorial Day Weekend

The Golden Triangle Obedience Training Club agility trial is on Memorial Day weekend – May 27-29, 2006 at the Pittsburgh Indoor Sports Arena, 220 Rich Hill Road, Cheswick from about 8:30 a.m. until 2 or 3 p.m. each day. There is no admission charge.

For further information: www.gtotc.com or 1-800-281-0920.

Curtain closes on canine’s career as a celebrity

By Barbara Rankin for the TRIBUNE-REVIEW – Kody, a cancer survivor, enjoys relaxing after a long and enjoyable career on the stage.

After 180 stage performances spanning seven years, Kody, a yellow Labrador retriever, has now retired to a relaxing life with his owner, handler and trainer Lorraine Kelly on their farm in Coal Center.

Fund pays to neuter pets

By CS Glessner for the Tribune-Review – The Nardecchia Spay and Neuter Fund, an organization started by a small group of big-hearted people in Cambria and Somerset counties, has vowed to make a difference in the lives of less forunate dogs and cats living in those counties.

Del Monte puts Meow Mix into its kitty

By Teresa F. Lindeman – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – The brand that cats ask for by name is now safely in the Del Monte Foods Co. portfolio with yesterday's closing of the $705 million acquisition of the Meow Mix cat food business.

The Meow Mix acquisition will bring about 60 jobs to Pittsburgh, bringing total local Del Monte employment above 650, according to a company spokeswoman. The company is keeping a regional headquarters here despite selling off the North Side soup and baby food plant it bought in December 2002 from the H.J. Heinz Co.     

Hopewell policeman opens home, heart to rescued dog

By Patrick O'Shea – Beaver County Times – HOPEWELL TWP. – A big puppy who's been through a big adventure has found a new home with a big-hearted Hopewell Township police officer who loves big dogs.     

Whitehall to get new four-legged friend

By Genea Webb – Pittsburgh Tribune-Review -  Her owner was sent to the slammer. Now she'll work to sniff out drugs to send dealers and users to the same place.

Keela, an 8-month-old Belgium Malinois, will become the newest member of Whitehall's police force this fall. The canine will replace Alex, a 10-year-old Belgium Malinois, who is retiring. Keela was donated to the department by Bob Chambers, a canine handler for the Allegheny County Sheriff's Department.

"Keela's owner went to jail and the family didn't want her, and they gave her to the Animal Rescue League, from my understanding," Chambers said. "The Animal Rescue League was going to put her to sleep because she didn't pass the temperament test to be placed with families."    

School police may get canine patrol

By Eleanor Chute - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – Pittsburgh Public Schools is considering adding two new tools named Quincy and Mack to help school police find drugs, guns and explosives.

Quincy and Mack are Labrador retrievers the Pittsburgh Police Training Academy has offered to donate. It would train both dogs and handlers, saving the district $11,400.

Pioneer police canine prepares for retirement

By Jim McMahon – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – After a decade as Whitehall's first police dog, Alex, a 12-year-old Belgian Malinois, will retire this fall and learn to be content to sniff out doggy treats instead of contraband.

Donated to the borough's police department by a West Newton trainer who specialized in police dogs, Alex made a lasting impression as an alert, agile, energetic and muscular dog that was always up to a given task, whether it was locating drugs or tracking criminals or missing people, Whitehall police said.

Dangerous Dogs in Collier

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – On May 6, police received a complaint about two dogs fighting with a cat on Prestley Street. The cat, which was 15 years old and a pet, was subsequently put to sleep. The owner of one of the dogs, Bruce Goolsby, 37, of Fourth Street, Carnegie, was charged with violating dog laws against keeping dangerous dogs and not confining dogs. Triangle Pet has the other dog. Its owner is being sought.

For ‘famous’ Doberman, there are no strangers

By Linda Wilson Fuoco – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – The Doberman pinscher had 15 minutes of fame in February when a driver in Avella found him huddled under her school bus in an apparent effort to get warm. The woman was saddened and sickened, for he was emaciated and both of his front paws were so badly deformed, he couldn't walk. He crawled.

Who could starve such a dog and then abandon him in the dead of winter?

Perhaps you read about the dog in the Post-Gazette. Perhaps you saw him on television news reports. Perhaps you wondered what became of him.

Letter carriers worry about being bitten by dogs

By Tom Mitchell – LEADER TIMES – KITTANNING — When a 250-pound, not so friendly St. Bernard decided that it didn’t like postal letter carrier Mark Jones, Jones realized it was time to “discourage” the slavering jaw-snapping K-9 with a dose of pepper spray. To Jones’s horror, the spray can was empty.

It all happened in a split second, so when my dog spray didn’t work, I did the only thing I could think of, I dropped by mail bag and ran. Thankfully, after I had sprinted 15 or 20 feet the dog gave up and I was spared what may have been a nasty bite.”

Jones said he later learned that this same “friendly” bundle of fur had bitten its owner several times and each attack required the owner to have stitches to close up the wounds.

Jones said his experience with the St. Bernard happened several years ago but is still fresh in his memory. He said that while dog attack incidents of that type are not common place, they do happen.

According to U. S. Postal Service officials, about 3,000 postal carriers are dog attack victims annually.

Animal-loving seniors get a hand to adopt and care for furry companions

By Linda Wilson Fuoco – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – There were the ever-popular bingo games and nutritious $1 lunches. As always there was the chance to chat with "the regulars" and maybe meet a new friend. But there was an added element one recent day at the Elder-ado Knoxville Center. There was the opportunity to talk to and cuddle with four cats and two kittens.

"Regulars" at the senior community center watched with bemusement as kittens played with tiny, plush toy mice. Many of the women asked for, and were granted, permission to hold the cats and pet them.

A brown tabby named "Bob," who earned "favorite" status during earlier visits, was allowed out of his crate because he is known to be a good boy who will stay out of the kitchen and away from the exit door. He walked around the main room, visiting only with people who welcomed his attentions.

The cats live in the East Liberty shelter of the Animal Rescue League of Western Pennsylvania. They're also up for adoption as part of the Pets for the Elderly program at that shelter. The 1-year-old program has been funded by a $25,000 grant from the Birmingham Foundation.    

As Seen On TV: ‘Direct response’ advertising becoming more popular

By Teresa F. Lindeman – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – OK, so there's this pig and a dog on a leather couch. They're in counseling. She's been chewing on his big pink ears.

How was this relationship saved?

The marriage counselor recommended Better Than Ears dog treats. Oh, and by the way, here's a Web site where customers can get a $1 off coupon.

That commercial, filmed in January at the Carnegie Library of Homestead, marked the 73-year-old Meadville company Dad's Pet Care's first foray into what the marketing industry calls direct response television advertising.

They don’t have to go it alone anymore

By Marilyn Forbes – Connellsville Daily-Courier – Ruffin' It, a new dog and cat day-care and training facility in Uniontown, has the answer to the dilemma of leaving your best friends at home alone while at work.

"Many pets left to their devices for long periods suffer from depression or destructive separation anxiety," says Lori Coffman, owner/operator of Ruffin' It. "The facility offers responsible pet owners a fun and rewarding alternative to dealing with the problems."    

Rendell fires state’s dog law advisory panel – Seeks to reverse image as puppy mill capital of East Coast

By Tracie Mauriello and Tom Barnes – Post-Gazette Harrisburg Bureau – HARRISBURG – Trying to rid Pennsylvania of its reputation as the "puppy mill capital of the East Coast," Gov. Ed Rendell has fired all 14 members of the state Dog Law Advisory Board.

Mr. Rendell, a pet lover who owns two golden retrievers, said the board, an advisory panel to the state Agriculture Department, was ineffective. He plans to name new members who share his concerns about poorly run breeding facilities, his spokeswoman, Kate Philips, said yesterday.

Rendell dismisses dog-law advisers: He cites the poor conditions at Pa. “puppy mills.” Board members contend they are not at fault for inaction.

By Amy Worden – Philadelphia Inquirer Harrisburg Bureau – HARRISBURG – Members of the Pennsylvania Dog Law Advisory Board have received pink slips from Gov. Rendell, in what he called the first step toward addressing inhumane conditions at the growing number of commercial dog breeding operations.

The action comes as animal-welfare advocates increase pressure on officials to end crowded and unsanitary conditions in so-called puppy mills and as the Department of Agriculture makes its first attempt in a decade to toughen the state's 24-year-old dog law.    

Dog Law Violations in Scott Twp.

Danielle Cosentino, 32, of Scott, was charged Saturday with dog law violations after someone complained that her dog had soiled his yard and knocked over a solar lamp.

Boy Scout Fundraiser for Police Dog

Castle Shannon Boy Scout Troop 350 will sponsor a spaghetti dinner, 3-7 p.m. Saturday, May 13, 2006 at the St. Anne School gym, 4040 Willow Ave.

Part of the proceeds will be used to buy a bulletproof vest for Nitro, the Castle Shannon police dog. Cost: $6 adults; $4 children; free for children younger than 5.

For more information call 412-344-6456.

Westmoreland County humane officers joining forces

By Rachel Smith – TRIBUNE-REVIEW – Westmoreland County's two humane officers are joining forces to protect the county's animals better.

Elaine Gower, who has worked for the Action for Animals shelter in Latrobe for more than 10 years, will team up with Jan Dillion, who recently joined the Humane Society of Westmoreland County, to enforce Pennsylvania's dog law, serve search warrants, seize animals in severe distress or danger and prosecute animal abusers within the court system.

‘Dog Whisperer’ sued by his TV producer

MSNBC – Man claims Labrador retriever was injured at Cesar Millan's training facility – LOS ANGELES – A television producer sued dog trainer Cesar Millan, star of TV’s “Dog Whisperer,” claiming his Labrador retriever was injured at Millan’s training facility after being choked with a collar and forced to run on a treadmill.    

Fat cats, hog dogs – Overfeeding, table scraps lead to an ‘epidemic’ of overweight pets

By Linda Wilson Fuoco – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - In this era of pet resorts, doggie yoga, feng shui pet gardens and Retin-A acne treatments for cats, it was just a matter of time.

A weight-loss contest for your pet.

Your dog or cat can win money, a year's supply of pricey pet food and free airline tickets to stay at an "upscale pet-friendly hotel" by entering Hill's 2006 National PetFit Challenge. The contest started in mid-April and ends Sept. 1.    

Does Your Pet Suffer From Separation Anxiety?

WPXI-TV Channel 11 Investigates Pet Panic – PITTSBURGH – If your dog's destructive behavior only happens while you're away, it's very likely it may be suffering from separation anxiety.

Lend me an ear

By Marjorie Wertz for the TRIBUNE-REVIEW – Tammy Catalano, of Mt. Pleasant, doesn't go anywhere without her black Labrador, Windy. Restaurants, shopping malls, grocery stores and Westmoreland County Community College, where Catalano works as a secretary in the athletic department, all welcome Windy, her hearing assistance dog.    

More hotels cater to four-legged guests

By Nate Guidry – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – Three years ago, Pam Woitas of Plum searched the Internet looking for hotel accommodations for both her family and their new pet, Sandy, a small mixed-breed.

Some tours welcome pets

The Associated Press – According to the Travel Industry Association of America, more than 29 million Americans took trips of more than 50 miles with their pets during the past three years.

In addition to hotels that accommodate pets, a growing industry of tours caters to dogs.

How to Rescue Dogs From Puppy Mill System

Sheldon Ingram – WTAE-TV Channel 4 Action News Pittsburgh – The images from a Channel 4 Action News Extra on puppy mills triggered tears and outrage on Thursday.The gripping image of a Boston terrier haunted many viewers. She is losing her uterus because she has been overbred.

Donna Walker rescued her dog McGregor from a puppy mill when he was 6 months old.How did she do it?    

Action News Extra: Puppy Mills Investigated

Sheldon Ingram – WTAE-TV Channel 4 Action News Pittsburgh – For those who have never heard of a puppy mill, it's equivalent to solitary confinement for young dogs, with substandard conditions.

As a result, some of the dogs that emerge from puppy mills look either malnourished or in overall bad health.

Channel 4 Action News went undercover to investigate dogs pulled from puppy mills.    

South Park, Paw Prints in the Park

Angel Ridge Animal Rescue, a Washington County shelter and sanctuary for aged, abused, handicapped and abandoned animals, will hold its spring dog walk and festival, Paw Prints in the Park, on Sunday, May 7, 2006 in South Park.

The event, set for noon to 5 p.m. at the park's community house and grounds, will include a picnic lunch, games for people and their dogs, a ticket auction, raffles, framed digital photos, pony rides, crafts, food booths and a microchipping clinic.

Cost is $8 a person, $15 a couple and $30 for a family of four. Proceeds will benefit the shelter's emergency veterinary fund.

To register, call 724-229-7053.

Man acquitted of cruelty to pit bull

By Ryan Haggerty – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – A McKees Rocks man who said he shot his neighbor's pit bull after it attacked him in his house was acquitted by a jury after a one-day trial Monday.

Gary L. Richter, 54, testified that the pit bull, which is still alive, entered his home Dec. 22, 2003, attacked his beagle and bit him on the hand. When Mr. Richter went outside a short time later to retrieve groceries from his car, he brought a gun with him and shot the dog in the neck when it threatened him again, he said.

Oxford breeder, 2 others guilty of animal cruelty

By Bonnie L. Cook – Philadelphia Inquirer – Oxford dog breeder Michael Wolf and two others were found guilty yesterday on all counts of animal cruelty for keeping 333 dogs, two cats and two birds in filthy conditions at Wolf's illegal kennel in Chester County.

Magisterial District Judge Harry W. Farmer ruled that Wolf, a nationally known breeder and handler of show dogs, must give up formal ownership of the neglected animals so the Chester County SPCA can find them new homes.

Farmer also held Wolf, 65, liable for restitution and court costs totaling $358,357 and prohibited Wolf from ever owning animals again.   

Vet sued by dog’s owners

They claim he faked euthanizing their ailing pet so he could give it to another owner for further care. (AP) A couple who thought they were watching their epileptic dog being euthanized actually witnessed a sedation procedure concocted so the veterinary clinic could later give the canine to another owner, they claim in a lawsuit. Read More

Swinging Tails Dinner Dance

Little Bit of Snuggles Dog Rescue is sponsoring a Swinging Tails Dinner Dance at 7 p.m. Friday, April 28, 2006 at Banquets Unlimited, 200 Bridge St in Wilmerding, PA. Also available are door prizes and a Chinese auction. Donation is $25.

Call 412-628-2877 for more information.

Dead dog dressed in human clothes found

By Jonathan D. Silver – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette – A road-rage incident in which an off-duty Pittsburgh police detective was the victim inadvertently led investigators to the carcass of a dog dressed in human clothing in the same Stanton Heights neighborhood.Police yesterday were in the process of obtaining an arrest warrant for the man in the road-rage episode.

Investigators did not make a connection between that incident and the case of the dead dog, which was bludgeoned and stabbed. Someone put blue jeans, a T-shirt, socks, shoes and a ball cap on the animal.   

Animal Friends offers pet care classes

By Kellie B. Gormly – TRIBUNE-REVIEW – When children reach age 10, or the fifth grade, they can and should actively start helping their parents care for Fido, Fluffy and Bugs, animal experts say.

Animal Friends — a no-kill shelter that recently moved from the Strip District into its new Ohio Township facility — will be offering classes in the coming weeks that teach kids how to take care of their dogs, cats and rabbits. The classes — designed for kids in the fifth through eighth grades, but open to younger children who attend with a parent — cover the basics of pet care, feeding and cleaning.

Green Tree couple earns best new franchise award for Camp Bow Wow USA

The Signal Item – Camp Bow Wow USA, the first and largest dog daycare and boarding franchise in North America, recognized its Pittsburgh Camp Bow Wow location as the Best New Franchise of 2005.

The company presented the award to Jordan and Barbara Murray of Green Tree at its second annual meeting in Las Vegas earlier this month. The husband-and-wife team just opened its dog care facility in November 2005.