Speaking of Pets

May is Pet Cancer Awareness Month, a time for  pet owners to be aware of the threat of cancer in their furry friends and ways they can minimize the risk.

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Being kind to animals is more than just an idea.  It's a way of treating them with respect and encouraging others to do the same.  That would include making sure that our own pets are spayed or neutered to help prevent the problem of pet overpopulation.

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Have you ever hugged your pet, buried your face in its fur, and found comfort and acceptance there?  If so, then you can appreciate the mission of these special dogs - trained to be hugged and petted, to comfort and console humans who are struggling to cope with their emotional reactions in the aftermath of a disaster.

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In many disasters, there are both human and animal victims.  After the fertilizer plant exploded in the town of West, Texas, people and organizations came from near and far to help those who were affected, whether they walked on two legs or four.

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Who wouldn't like a faithful companion who will be attentive and loyal and follow you anywhere?   All you have to do it tune in!

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Most folks know that expenses related to the care and well-being of a pet are not deductible on an individual's income tax return.  Or are they? 

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With the deadline coming up for filing personal income tax returns, a lot of us are looking for deductions wherever we can find them.

If your pet is biting at its feet or fur, or scratching its ears, this time of year the problem may be a seasonal allergy.

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Easter baskets make us smile, with all the pretty colors and yummy goodies and treats.  The sweet-smelling candies and chocolate are tantalizing to a pet's sensitive nose and that Easter grass wiggling in the breeze entices a curious pet.  Plan now to keep your four-footed friend safe from the dangers that lurk inside (and outside) that basket this Easter.

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Seasonal pets are rarely a good idea for either the humans or the animals.  That includes the baby chicks and bunnies that are so popular at Easter.   They may be cute and fuzzy but they come with certain requirements for basic care, and a commitment for years, not just days or weeks!

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DNA tests are now available to find out what your pet's breed heritage really is, but on St. Patrick's Day that doesn't really matter.  What's important is that you are Irish in spirit!

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The Pit Bull is really not a separate breed but one of several, or even a combination of two or more.  Because they have been used and abused as fighting animals, some communities have banned them.  But people who really know these dogs will tell you what wonderful pets they can be. 

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Keeping an animal as a pet brings with it certain responsibilities.  One of those is to make sure your furry family member is safe and protected.

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Early in life we learn  to count and to do simple arithmetic, but there's nothing simple about counting the animals - dogs, cats, and even rabbits - who are victims of the pet overpopulation problem.

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New York City is going to the dogs this coming week, as the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show takes center stage!

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