A Green Puppy!! Prank or X File?

OK, everyone, I need to hear some opinions. Read about the Green Puppy and then tell me if you think the story is for real!

Is it like the vet said? (Did the placenta rub off on just one puppy?)

Did the mom eat too many green leafy veggies?

Or... did the owner pull a "Kelly Osborne" (remember when she dyed her dog pink?) and resort to dying her doggie just to get a little publicity?

Post your comments by clicking on the comment link below!

How you Can Help Pets Affected by Hurricane Katrina

How Hurricane Katrina

has affected Pets

and how you can help

Hurricane Katrina has been called the biggest natural disaster in the history of the United States, covering an area larger than Great Britain and affecting millions of lives. The question on everyone's mind lately is, "how can I help?" As concerned as we are about the human survivors of Hurricane Katrina, many of us also wonder how we can help the thousands of pets whose lives have also been affected by Katrina.

The "dog-gift-divas" at Great Dog Gift have compiled an extensive directory of sites you can visit if you wish to volunteer your time, money and/or resources. We hope you'll find it helpful!

Make a Charitable Contribution

Donate Supplies

Help Reunite Pets with Owners

Volunteer Your Time/Skills or Foster a Pet

Rescue and Reunion Stories

Preparing for Future Disasters

Note: All of the charitable organizations listed below are nationally recognized and legitimate .

If you want your dollars to go where the greatest numbers of animals affected by Hurricane Katrina are being rescued and treated, I recommend the Louisiana, Mississippi, and Houston organizations (listed under "Regional").

Although donations of supplies are still greatly appreciated, most of the organizations I contacted are saying that, due to the overwhelming number of animals they're caring for, and the extent of their medical needs, monetary donations are most urgently needed.

** Don't make contributions to any group who solicits your help over the phone, unless you've checked them out very carefully, and are certain they're legit!!

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Charitable Contributions Regional Organizations: The Louisiana School of Veterinary Medicine The Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine has pledged "to provide loving care and shelter for pets until they can be reunited with their families who were displaced by Hurricane Katrina". As of September 10, 2005, they report that they still have plenty of room and are still accepting animals. They also are accepting transfers from other clinics and shelters, and provide contact information on their home page. For evacuees traveling with pets, or people with pets who are preparing to evacuate, the school also has information and assistance. Please Make a Donation to assist them in their efforts. Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association The Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association College of Veterinary Medicine is cooperating with the Mississippi Board of Animal Health, the Mississippi State Veterinarian, as well as other local, state, and federal agencies, to provide relief to pets and animals and the animal-owning public affected by this disaster. To help facilitate this effort, we are assisting these agencies in providing information about animal relief and donation efforts. Financial donations are being accepted through the Mississippi Animal Disaster Relief Fund at the Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association . Click on this link to open a contribution form for the Mississippi Animal Disaster Relief Fund.

The Houston SPCA The Houston SPCA has established an animal emergency hotline (713) 802-0555 and is preparing to receive hundreds more animal victims. They have received more than 900 animal victims of Hurricane Katrina. They took in 263 canines and felines from the Louisiana SPCA before the storm hit and have now accepted animals from evacuees at the Houston Astrodome, Reliant Arena and George R. Brown Convention Center. They anticipate hundreds if not thousands more in the coming days and weeks. Monetary donations are most needed to help care for the hundreds of extra animals in the Houston shelter now, and those they will be taking in and caring for in the coming weeks and months. Click here to donate to the Houston SPCA. back to top North Shore Animal League of America The North Shore Animal League America, the world's largest no-kill pet rescue and adoption organization, has an exemplary record of protecting animals in New York and around the globe. As early as August 30, 2005, they had posted the following information on their site: ""North Shore Animal League has two rescue vans in the Alabama area ready to save animals. Tomorrow morning we will be doing our first rescue of homeless dogs and cats at the Florence Animal Control shelter in Alabama. Our 32-foot mobile unit is also on its way to help rescue more animals and will be in the area by Thursday. We will continue sending rescue vehicles for as long as it takes to help local shelters in the southern states keep up with the tide of animals that have been displaced by this tragedy."." Click Here to view an on-site log of their rescue and relief efforts Help support the NSALA Emergency Response Team by making a financial contribution to their Hurricane Katrina Animal Rescue Fund back to top National Organizations: The Humane Society of the United States In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has launched a massive relief effort to rescue animals and assist their caregivers in the disaster areas. Their highly trained Disaster Animal Response Teams are in New Orleans and Mississippi coordinating a multi-state animal rescue and recovery effort. They now have more than 200 people on the ground doing search-and-rescue and staffing temporary shelters, and have rescued more than a thousand animals in the hardest hit areas of both states since Friday. Make an emergency contribution to the Humane Society Disaster Relief Fund Their entire relief effort is funded by donations from people like you, and they desperately need your support.Your tax-deductible gift will be used exclusively for our disaster animal relief work. To send your gift by U.S. Mail, please make your check payable to HSUS Disaster Relief Fund and mail it to HSUS, Dept. DRFHBM, 2100 L Street, NW, Washington, DC 20037. Thank you! Get the latest news on katrina humane society with Google Alerts. The ASPCA® To make a donation visit the ASPCA Disaster Relief Fund. From this page, you can also view their rescue diary for reports of hands-on recovery efforts, latest press releases, and information about resources for evacuees. On September 3, 2005 -- The ASPCA® (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) announced that it has set up two databases to help in the aid and recovery of animals affected by Hurricane Katrina. You can use these databases to help reunite lost pets with owners or to volunteer your time and skills. back to top The American Humane Association The American Humane Association emergency responder teams immediately assessed the needs of the communities affected by the hurricane, and began coordinating animal rescue operations. The American Humane Association’s Animal Emergency Services’ rescue rig, which serves as both a mobile veterinary clinic and a temporary shelter for displaced pets, is a state-of- the-art emergency vehicle. The AHA deployed the rig to join its fleet of vehicles and volunteer rescue responders. The rig headed for Louisiana loaded up with pet food and supplies donated by PETCO. Read the latest report from the field. American Humane’s Animal Emergency Services program manager and veteran volunteer responder Dick Green is on the scene. Read the entries! Click Here to donate to the American Humane Association Animal Emergency Services. The American Kennel Club The AKC CAR Canine Support & Relief Fund has been established as a permanent charitable fund with the goals of providing resources, support, funds, and other assistance to: Search and Rescue animals and handlers participating in rescue and recovery efforts in connection with natural or civil disasters. The veterinary units providing support to the canine rescue teams. Not-for-profit animal shelters and similar not-for-profit organizations providing care for domestic animals orphaned or displaced as a result of natural or civil disasters. 100 Percent of donated dollars goes to the dogs - No donated funds pay for any administrative costs back to top PetsMart Charities PETsMART Charities provides emergency relief funding to assist pets in times of hurricanes, earthquakes, fire and other natural catastrophes. Your donations will be used for supplies needed at the disaster site such as food, crates, litter, beds and more ... medical supplies used for first aid to injured pets ... vaccinations to displaced pets to prevent disease outbreak ... repairs to shelters damaged by flooding, high winds, and fires. PetsMart Charities has plenty of experience in helping pets find new homes. They have helped over 2 million pets find permanent homes through past efforts. We profile their history in our article on Pet Charties Donate at the Charity Dog receptacle inside any PetSmart store in the U.S. All in-store donations from August 30, 2005 through September 30, 2005 are earmarked for Hurricane Katrina emergency relief and other disasters. You can also mail your donation directly to: PetSmart Charities 19601 N. 27th Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85027 Attn: Disaster Relief/Hurricane Katrina If you have any questions about donating to PetsMart online, please send them an email at info@petsmartcharities.org or call them toll-free at 1-800-423-PETS. Veterinary Medical Assistance Teams Veterinary Medical Assistance Teams (VMATs) are the national backbone of animal disaster preparedness and response. With assistance, funding and support from the AVMF, VMATs provide treatment and aid to animals used in search-and-rescue efforts and animals hurt or endangered by catastrophic events such as floods, hurricanes, fires and earthquakes. Comprised of highly trained veterinarians, veterinary technicians and support personnel, VMATs teams are organized regionally and can be deployed to any state or U.S. territory within 24 hours. Your contribution to the AVMF helps all disaster preparedness and response efforts. To donate click here back to top Donate Supplies The AKC The American Kennel Club and affiliated organization AKC Companion Animal Recovery continue relief efforts with a shipment of bowls, crates and exercise pens to the Louisiana State University Veterinary School staging area in Baton Rouge in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. For people wanting to volunteer much needed equipment, housing and personal resources, such as foster homes and offers of transporting dogs, AKC has set up a web-based donation exchange on its website. Search for people who need your help: searches can be done state by state or nationwide and will show you who has asked for help, and lists the items they need. Noah's Wish Noah’s Wish, a not-for-profit organization that works exclusively to rescue and shelter animals in disasters, is rescuing animals from evacuated homes in Slidell, Louisiana. Although they can't receive packages at their Louisiana location, you can donate supplies as directed on their site: "Individual supplies should go to our St. Louis Area supply staging at the address below: Roger Smith Noah's Wish 8762 Klondike Road Worden, IL 62097 Questions regarding donation items should be addressed to supplies@noahswish.org with SUPPLY AND EQUIPMENT in the subject line. Large truck shipment donors should us at supplies@noahswish.org for special instructions. Please be patient, our Logistics Department staff are processing donation offers as quickly as possible." Humane Society of Houston back to top The Humane Society of Houston's Humane Society doctors and staff are working to give free Vaccines, Services and Evaluations for pet victims of Hurricane Katrina. They have devoted their entire home page to providing updates on the services being provided. They also need Donations of food, towels or money for medical supplies, now more than ever. These can be brought to the shelter at:14700 Almeda Road, (2 blocks south of Beltway 8 and Almeda Road), or to the Animals' Kingdom in Houston Center, 1200 McKinney. Heavy-gauge chain link fencing and labor are also needed to build extra kennel space for the anticipated influx of animals from Hurricane Katrina. Please contact 713-433-6421 if you can help with their building efforts. The Humane Society keeps a wish list on their site of items needed for donation. Scroll down that page to view the most desperately needed items. back to top Help Reunite Pets with their Owners The best resource we found for finding your lost pet or reporting a pet you've found is the Animal Emergency Response Network. There are links here for more than just missing pets. Pets needing help can also be registered here, as well as pets needing foster homes. People offering foster care can search for pets needing a homes or temporary care. (New York, NY) September 3, 2005 -- The ASPCA® (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) announced today that it has set up a database to help in the aid and recovery of animals affected by Hurricane Katrina. To help families find their lost pets, a registry of missing pets has been established.. In order to register your pet, please send your contact information and a description of the pet including name and breed to katrina@ldaf.louisiana.gov. You must register by email, there is no online registration form. In Louisiana, people reporting stranded animals should call: (888) 773-6489 . Outside Louisiana, people should call: (225) 925-3980 If you are an evacuee and need to report pets who may be trapped, Click Here for the ASPCA® Hurricane Hotline phone number and email address. Best Friends Animal Society has a wonderful Information and Resource page with downloadable reports on how to find a lost pet, and grief assistanc. This page also tells who to contact with offers of assistance or if you have an animal that has been left behind or know of one that has been left behind: hurricane@bestfriends.org (435)644-2001 ext. 398 They ask that you include the following information: Name and contact information Address where the pet was left Pet’s name Description of pet – species, breed or special markings back to top Volunteer Your Time/Skills or Foster a Pet Volunteers (minimum age: 16) are needed to work in the pet shelter at John M. Parker Coliseum. In Baton Rouge, please come directly to the Coliseum and ask for the Volunteer Coordinator to sign up or send an e-mail to katrinavolunteers@ldaf.louisiana.gov. You can get more information at the Louisiana School of Veterinary Medicine's home page. They're also in need of veterinarians, vet techs, and animal handling professionals or animal control officers. The Animal Emergency Response Network has links for people who want to foster a pet and/or to volunteer to help pets in need. The ASPCA® (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) announced on Sept 3,2005 that it has set up a database to help in the aid and recovery of animals affected by Hurricane Katrina. If you would like to volunteer with the animal relief efforts, please register via email www.aspca.org/hurricane. Leave your contact information and special skills you possess to help with animal relief. Best Friends Animal Society has a Post Your Story page with a log of personal stories and news from individuals concerned about the disaster. It includes pleas from individual citizens in New Orleans who are trying to help out and looking for people to donate time and supplies. (Sept 9 log entry) back to top 1-800-Save-A-Pet.com helps get homeless pets into loving homes. Foster homes will be needed for the thousands of pets being recovered from the destruction left by Hurricane Katrina. They are compiling a database of foster homes for the various emergency response teams on the ground. Can you open your home to a pet who needs help? Can you provide transportation for foster pets? Please sign up with Hurricane Katrina Foster Homes If you are a rescue or shelter with space for pets, please register as a Shelter with Room for Pets Trained Emergency Animal Rescue Service (EARS) volunteers are being mobilized to respond to Hurricane Katrina. They know that there are many other people who have not yet been trained who might be interested in helping, too. If you are interested in being mobilized as a convergent volunteer or if you have supplies or services to donate, you should sign up now to ensure that you will be one of the first to be called, should they be able to utilize non-EARS volunteers. Rescue and Reunion Stories For more details on the Houston SPCA's relief efforts and some happy reunion stories, please Click Here The Humane Society currently (Sept 09, 2005) has rescue pictures and videos on their home page. The image next to their "Top Stories" feature links to a video of a dog being rescued from the second story of an abandoned home. View the ASPCA rescue diary for reports of hands-on recovery efforts. American Humane’s Animal Rescue Field Report is being maintained by American Humane’s Animal Emergency Services program manager and veteran volunteer responder Dick Green. It began on August 31, and is updated every couple of days. The North Shore Animal League of America keeps an on-site log of their Rescue and Relief efforts. Best Friends Animal Society has a Post Your Story page with a log of personal stories and news from individuals concerned about the disaster. It includes pleas from individual citizens in New Orleans who are trying to help out and looking for people to donate time and supplies. (Sept 9 log entry) "Best Friends on the Front Lines" contains the latest reports and other media from the Best Friends Animal Society rescue team. Hurricane Katrina Disaster Situation Reports is a detailed log compiled by the American Veterinary Medical Association. It gives specific details about veterinary care provided to animal victims of Hurricane Katrina, on a day-by-day basis. PetFinder.com is hosting a page full of Hurricane Katrina updates and links of interest and also has a very active message forum where people can give and receive information and share thoughts. Central Florida animal lovers have united to save pets' lives disrupted by Hurricane Katrina. Read their story here. back to top Disaster Preparedness No one is immune from the possibility of being affected personally by a devastating disaster. Every year, tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, fires, blizzards, and more ravage our country and other parts of the world. Natural disasters such as Hurricane Katrina and manmade disasters such as the September 11th tragedy will continue to be a threat. You need to prepare for yourself and for your animals in case of a disaster. To Learn How to Protect Yourself in the event of a Disaster, please visit the following pages: American Red Cross: Disaster Preparedness Tips This web page has tips for taking care of your pets in a disaster: http://www.redcross.org/news/ds/0205hurricane/tip617.html American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) This web page takes you, step by step, through the process of emergency pet preparedness: http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=emergency American Veterinary Medical Association This page describes several publications designed to help veterinarians, animal owners, and others interested in the well-being of animals to prepare for animal safety in the event of a disaster: http://www.avma.org/disaster/default.asp They also have developed a booklet, which you can view online, filled with information on how to be sure your pet won't be left behind in the event of a disaster: http://www.avma.org/disaster/saving_family.asp#before Cat Fanciers' Association This page describes the activities of the Cat Fanciers' Association Disaster Committee and offers tips for evacuating your cats in a disaster: http://www.cfainc.org/disasters.html Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) This page focuses on preparedness for emergencies and disasters as far as your pets are concerned: http://www.fema.gov/library/anemer.shtm back to top

Finding the Perfect Puppy for Sale

"There, in the pet shop window... was the cutest puppy for sale I'd ever seen!"

I remember it like it was yesterday...I was a senior in college, ready to begin a new life in a few short weeks.

On a whim, my boyfriend and I stopped by the local pet shop; and there, in the window, was the cutest little puppy for sale I'd ever seen!

He had big brown eyes -- one with a pink rim, and the other surrounded by a big splotch of black fur. He was mostly white, with a pale nose, a big round belly, and huge, clumsy feet.

It was love at first sight!

I told my beau that I HAD to have this dog. I wouldn't walk away from the store without the little guy! But my annoyingly level-headed partner broke my trance.

"Why do you want a dog now ?" he asked. "Where are you going to keep him? How will you afford the vet bills? What do you even know about him, or where he came from?" He suggested that I go home and think about it, and not buy a puppy on a whim.

And he kept at me until I caved in. I "caved" because I knew he was right. And as hard as it was to walk away, I went home to my apartment empty handed.

Within a few hours, of course, I realized what a mistake it would have been. I mean, what would my landlord have said? My college roommates? How about the fact that I was about to move to a strange city and had no idea if I'd have time or a place for a dog in my new life? And I didn't know the first thing about the dog's temperament or background. "What", I asked myself, "was I thinking"?

Before you Start Shopping -- Steps you can take to Avoid Big Mistakes

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So... you're searching for a puppy for sale, and you can't wait to get started!

There are so many great places to find a puppy for sale, near and far. And adding a new member to your family is so exciting, isn't it?

If an adorable puppy for sale makes it hard for you to think clearly, I certainly understand! This page is for you!

In many many ways, finding the perfect dog or puppy for sale is like finding the perfect mate. You're going to be sharing a good part of you life and times with this furry creature, and you want the experience to be enjoyable for both of you.

We've all entered into relationships that had us asking ourselves later, "What Was I Thinking?" (Usually, it's because we didn't listen to that "little voice" that told us it was a bad idea in the first place!). Many times it's because we were attracted for the wrong reasons. In the doggie world, this could mean buying a breed that's been popularized by the media but is all wrong for you. Or falling for that dog or puppy for sale who's got so
many problems that you just want to "rescue" him, but then those problems come back to bite you ( literally, sometimes!).

So go into this with your eyes open. Don't be reluctant to walk away from a puppy for sale that doesn't seem like the right choice for you.

Don't get a big, active dog who craves attention if you live in a small city apartment and work long hours. And don't get a dog if you won't have time to train him, socialize him, and play with him. Definitely be prepared to spend money on food, toys, crates and carriers, routine and unexpected vet bills, replacements for chewed up belongings, etc, etc. You get the picture.

Most of all, don't buy that puppy for sale on impulse! (This is how dogs end up in shelters). Do your homework, and you'll be in for a wonderful and rewarding experience with your newest family member!

There are many things to consider before you begin your search; things that will save you mountains of trouble in the long run.

Mature Dog versus Puppy -- do you have what it takes to raise a puppy?

The Adoption Option -- wonderful dogs looking for their forever homes

Which Breed is Right for Me? -- the most important question of all

Buying your Puppy from a Breeder -- reputable breeders vs backyard breeders

Buying from a Neighbor or RelativePet Shop Puppies -- proceed with caution

Health Records -- don't bring her home without them!

Where to Find Your Puppy for Sale -- sources both near and far

Mature Dog versus Puppy

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When they're ready for a new dog, most people instinctively look for a puppy for sale. Puppies are adorable and loads of fun, but they're also a lot of work! Adopting a mature dog is a better choice for many of us, once we think it through. Why?

Well, for starters:

• Older dogs may already be house-trained
  
• Mature dogs don't need to be taken outside nearly as frequently
  
• They often come out of shelters with some obedience basics already mastered.
  
• If you acquire a fully grown dog, you don't need to guess about how big he'll grow or what kind of temperament he'll develop!

The Adoption Option

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There are so many wonderful dogs just waiting for the chance to find their "forever" home, that it seems a shame not to consider the adoption option.

If you'd like to explore the option, you can check with the online Pet Adoption Center at PETCO.com. You can also visit
PetsMart adoptions: follow the link and it takes you to an article called "Adopting at PetsMart", where you'll find general information plus a store locator to the PetSmart nearest you.

Because Petco and PetsMart are such large organizations, they have the resources and facilities to reach out to shelters in their communities, and help place homeless dogs and cats directly from their own store locations.

You can also go straight to your local animal shelter. Shelters have dogs of all ages, sizes, colors and breeds. Shelters do screen their animals for temperament and health, and they screen potential adoption families as well. Expect to be asked some questions about your lifestyle and background -- it's in the best interests of both you and the dog that the shelter make a good match!

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what to look for

Whether visiting a local shelter or a large store like Petco, you'll want to pay attention to the following:

• Is the dog clean and healthy? Is he friendly? Lively? Not to aggressive, and not too needy?
  
  
  
  
• Talk with those caring for the animals; they may be familiar with a particular dog's personality and habits.
  
  
  
  
• Find out whether the dog was a stray or whether his owner turned him in. Some wonderful dogs are reluctantly given up by owners too old or sick to care for a dog, or because their owners died or moved away.
  
  
  
  
• Ask to bring the dog to the holding area so you can see how she reacts to you. It's normal for most dogs to be afraid and anxious. If you can, take her for a walk and spend a little time with her.
  
  
  
  
• Don't be afraid to walk away. Settling for a dog that you feel isn't quite right for you or your situation can be disastrous for both of you.

what it costs

If you came here looking for a puppy for sale, then you came prepared to spend money for your puppy, right? Well, you'll also be asked to pay a "donation" for your adopted dog or pup. It's not that the shelter is trying to make a profit from you: the donation typically covers expenses like shots and neutering, and sometimes even the first trip to the vet.

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Which Breed is Right for Me?

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You know, this is probably the most important question to ask before you start looking for your dream puppy for sale. Personally, I'm married to a man who's the epitome of the "Bull in the China Shop". So of course, we needed an indestructible dog! Cleo is a mastiff, and she's just perfect for rough-housing with a guy like Mark (who's 6'3" and "husky"). But if we had any four legged children living at home, or were still in an apartment, Cleo would be all wrong for us. She'd
still be the right dog for Mark...but she'd be all wrong for our living situation and all of us would suffer the consequences.

choosing the right breed

Check our dog breed page for a complete listing of breeds from PuppyFinder

PETCO also has a great breed selector, which is part of their "follow the path to your perfect pet" feature. I recommend it highly for anyone searching for a puppy for sale, preparing for and naming your puppy, and a lot more.

It's packed with information and offers the best guide to dog breeds I've seen. (Scroll down a bit for an example of their "breed qualities" charts).

New Pet Selector On the page itself, of course, the "steps" along the path are all clickable links. The breed comparison feature is arranged by breed size, so you can decide on a small, medium, or large dog. Then, when you choose your dogs breed, you'll get a page that shows a photo, breed history, and breed characteristics (size, appearance, coat and color, head and tail). But my favorite part is this: back to top That's not all. Before you start looking at those puppy for sale ads, you can already be making preparations and picking out some names. At the top of the breed selection page, you notice that all of the steps are mapped out for you: The feature for "naming your pet" is fantastic; it that allows you to choose, besides male or female, from categories like the following: Popular, Mythological Character, Cartoon Character, Famous Person, Persons Name, Place, Color, Nature, Edible or Drinkable, Love and Beauty, Power, Nickname, Quirks and "isms", Sports and Games, Objects of Desire, Honorary Titles, Terms of Endearment. I'll bet your puppy for sale will already have a few names picked out after you visit this page!

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Buying your Puppy from a Breeder

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If you want a purebred puppy or you plan to enter the show ring with your dog, look for a reliable breeder. The best breeders won't always have puppy for sale ads in the papers. They tend get business by reputation, and have owners lined up before their puppies are for sale, or even born! But they may have a website.

EuroPuppy is a great place to search online, and you don't have to live in Europe to buy from them. They have happy customers all over the world. K9Nation is another good place to search for breeders.

dog shows

If you like to buy locally, a great place to go is an AKC dog show. The type called a "benched show", requires the dogs to arrive early and await their turn in the ring in a designated area. Spectators are free to wander in this area.

You'll not only have a chance to observe the dogs but will often get to talk to an owner/handler or a handler's assistant about their breed. People are more than happy to discuss their favorite subject with you. You'll get answers to your questions , and probably lots of information you never thought to ask about. So, you won't actually find a puppy for sale at the show. But if you hit it off with the breeder or handler, you may end up buying a puppy from their next litter!

You can also ask your local veterinarian for a reputable breeder or any puppy for sale they're aware of, or call the following agencies for a list of breeders in your area:

American Kennel Club at 919-233-9767

United Kennel Club at 616-343-9020

Canadian Kennel Club at 416-675-5511

what to ask a dog breeder

• Will the breeder help you choose the right puppy for your needs?
  
• Are his dogs registered with the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) Hip Dysplasia Registry?
  
• What are their registration numbers?
  
• Are the animals certified free of PRA and other eye diseases?
  
• Are the puppy's hips and eyes guaranteed?
  
• What are his terms if the puppy develops genetic problems?
  
• Can you visit the parents of the litter?
  
• Can you talk to other dog owners who have purchased his puppies?
  
• Does the breeder require that his puppies be spayed or neutered?
  
• Have his puppies received their first shots?
  
• At what age are his puppies placed?

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reputable breeders

There's more than one kind of breeder out there. The most reputable breeders are dedicated to improving the breed they love. And because they love the breed, they belong to local and national breed clubs, are often involved in showing competitively, and will have lots of happy customers who are willing to act as references. Reputable breeders are concerned with producing great-looking, healthy pups, and they go the extra mile and spend what's necessary to do this. The puppy for sale from a breeder
like this can cost several hundred dollars or more. Often, there's not a big profit involved.

Reputable breeders also may have some "pet quality" pups in their litters. These dogs are healthy and will make great pets, they just won't show well in the ring. It could be a minor flaw like an overbite, or a less-than-ideal stance -- things that are purely esthetic and won't make your puppy any less loveable. You can generally get a pet quality puppy for sale from a breeder for less than the going rate.

commercial breeders

Then, there's the other kind...the breeders who are strictly in it for the money. These commercial breeders run large-scale operations, breeding many dogs at once and the same dogs over and over. Dogs from this source often don’t get the early socialization they need and may have behavioral and medical problems. They're also more likely to suffer from inherited diseases such as hip dysplasia. Some of these breeders sell to pet stores. Others sell directly to pet owners. Be very wary of a puppy
for sale from one of these "puppy mills".

backyard breeders

Somewhere in the middle, you have breeders who simply aren't as skilled and knowledgeable as the reputable breeder. They may be breeding pups part time for extra income, or may have had an unexpected litter from their purebred pets. These people are less likely to stand behind their product, especially where unexpected puppies are concerned. They have no reputation to protect. Although reputable breeders will list a puppy for sale in the newspaper, it's more likely that the puppies in the
classifieds are from back yard breeders. Ask the questions listed above, and you'll know right away who you're dealing with.

Buying a puppy from a neighbor or relative

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Still tempted by that cute puppy for sale at the local pet shop? Tempted by the low price? Consider buying your puppy instead from a neighbor or relative.

You'll know a lot more about the love and care the dog has received and the conditions she was raised in.

Your neighbor or relative does have a reputation to protect -- the one they've built with you! And you're likely to get your dog for a lower price.

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Pet Shop Puppies

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I've already pointed out which are the best pet stores to buy from- they're the ones who are helping local shelters find loving families for dogs without a home. Smaller pet stores, unfortunately, tend to buy their stock from puppy mills. There are exceptions, but you have to know what to ask. So, if you must buy that puppy for sale in the window, please ask the following questions:

• Where did the dog come from?
  
• Are you a licensed USDA dealer?
  
• Does the kennel or broker conduct genetic clearance for breeding stock?
  
• Can you have a copy of the dog's eye and hip certifications?
  
• What health problems are common to this breed?
  
• Does the breed tend to bark a lot?
  
• How much socialization does this breed require?
  
• How much exercise does this breed require?
  
• How much grooming does this breed require?
  
• How much do they shed?
  
• What happens to the puppies that are not sold?

The store clerk or manager should be able to provide you with answers.

Health Records

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Health records and vaccination certificates should be provided with any puppy. Accept a puppy without them, and you're taking a big risk. Plan a visit to your veterinarian within a few days of adopting your dog. If you don't have a vet, you should select one right away. Take a copy of your dog's vaccination and worming records and any other medical records you may have.

That's it! Now, you're armed and ready to find that perfect dog or puppy for sale and you know exactly what you're getting into, don't you? You can start shopping locally or search far and wide!

How to give pills to cats and dogs

Sorry folks, but I couldn't resist! This is too funny, and so true.

To fully appreciate the article, you must read all the way to the end. Trust me, it's worth it.

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CATS



1. Pick cat up and cradle it in the crook of your left arm as if holdinga baby. Position right forefinger and thumb on either side of cat'smouth and gently apply pressure to cheeks while holding pill in righthand. As cat opens mouth, pop pill into mouth. Allow cat to close mouthand swallow.

2. Remove pill from floor and cat from behind sofa. Cradle cat in leftarm and repeat process.

3. Retrieve cat from bedroom and throw soggy pill away.

4. Take new pill from foil wrap, cradle cat in left arm holding rearpaws tightly with left hand. Force jaws open and push pill to back ofmouth with right forefinger. Hold mouth shut for a count of ten.

5. Remove pill from goldfish bowl and cat from top of wardrobe. Callspouse from garden.

6. Kneel on floor with cat wedged firmly between knees, hold front andrear paws. Ignore low growls emitted by cat. Get spouse to hold headfirmly with one hand while forcing wooden ruler into mouth. Drop pilldown ruler and rub cat's throat vigorously.

7. Retrieve cat from curtain rail, get another pill from foil wrap. Makenote to buy new ruler and repair curtains. Carefully sweep shatteredfigurines and vases from hearth and set to one side for gluing later.

8. Wrap cat in large towel and get spouse to lie on cat with head justvisible from below armpit. Put pill in end of drinking straw, forcemouth open with pencil and blow down drinking straw.

9. Check label to make sure pill is not harmful to humans, drink 1 beerto take taste away. Apply Band-Aid to spouse's forearm and remove bloodfrom carpet with cold water and soap.

10. Retrieve cat from neighbor's shed. Get another pill. Open anotherbeer. Place cat in cupboard and close door onto neck to leave headshowing. Force mouth open with dessert spoon. Flick pill down throatwith elastic band.

11. Fetch screwdriver from garage and put cupboard door back on hinges.Drink beer. Fetch bottle of scotch. Pour shot, drink. Apply coldcompress to cheek and check records for data of last tetanus jab. Applywhiskey compress to cheek to disinfect. Toss back another shot. Throwaway T-shirt and fetch new one from bedroom.

12. Ring fire brigade to retrieve the friggin' cat from tree across theroad. Apologize to the neighbor who crashed into fence while swervingto avoid cat. Take last pill from foil wrap.

13. Tie the little bastard's front paws to rear paws with garden twineand bind tightly to leg of dining room table, find heavy duty pruninggloves from shed. Push pill into mouth followed by large piece of filletsteak. Be rough about it. Hold head vertically and pour 2 pints of waterdown throat to wash pill down.

14. Consume remainder of Scotch. Get spouse to drive you to theemergency room, sit quietly while doctor stitches fingers and forearmand removes pill remnants from right eye. Call furniture shop on wayhome to order new table.

15. Arrange for SPCA to collect mutant cat from hell and ring local petshop to see if they have any hamsters.




DOGS



1. Wrap it in bacon.

Bow Lingual -- Want to Know what your Dog is trying to Tell You?

Hang on to the leash, 'cause I'm about to introduce you to the coolest high-tech doggie device on the market, and at a price you won't believe...

If you ever wondered what your dog was trying to tell you, wonder no more! With Bow Lingual, your dog finally has a voice.

This innovative product analyzes your dog's barks to determine what he or she is feeling. Pre-programmed for over 80 common breeds and over 200 translations, it uses voice print and behavior analysis developed in the renowned Japan Acoustic Laboratory

Although most people view this dog lover gift as a high tech toy, others take it quite seriously:

The Japanese government believes so much in the technology that when Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi visited Russian President Vladimir Putin, he gave him two Bow-Linguals as gifts to use on the Russian leader's two dogs. Not exactly the moment for a gag gift.

Oh yeah, Bow-Lingual comes in two colors, red and navy, so you can talk to at least two dogs at time. (They run on different frequencies so there's no interference).

The translator detects 6 different emotions and pairs each one with an appropriated phrase.

"Mark Patinkin of the Providence Journal is a believer:" "... I held up the stick but refused to throw it. (My dog) got peeved and let me know it. Translation: "C'mon, play with me." I still wouldn't throw. "Just listen to me," he said. I continued to hold back the stick. He barked again: "Can't you hear me?" Finally, I threw it. Right hand to God, the translation came out as, "We're having fun now."

My experience? Well, just the other day, Cleo asked me if I could make the cats go away. (More or less!). I think it's great fun.

Not interested in what Fido has to say? Bow Lingual has other modes:

Home Alone mode allows you to record your dog's barks when you have to be away, helping you spot dog health issues or identify behavioral problems that can be corrected with dog training. The MBF Score shows what kind of a friend you've been to your Man's Best Friend. Body Language mode is used along with the Bark Translator to understand your dog's body language and behavior. Training mode provides tips and advice on how dog training can help you beat the ten most common dog behavior problems experienced by owners.

Here's Where it Really Gets Good...

Voted by Time Magazine as one of the best inventions of 2002, Bow-Lingual was originally available only in Japan, where it sold for around $100

Now you can buy it in the US, where it goes for as much as $129.(But that's not what you're going to pay. Not even close!)

Right now, all the major retailers are running sales on the Bow-Lingual. This seems to have started a major price war (Don't you love those? I just flew from Boston to LA for $85. But that's another story).

The best price? At PETCO, for only $12.99! That's 70% off retail, and they sold out of them over the Holidays. If you find they've run out again, you can also get Bow Lingual at PetSmart, for $14.99

Haloscan commenting and trackback have been added to this blog.

The Great Dog Gift Site Map

Looking for a Specific Page or Subject on our Site?

Many readers have asked me for an updated site index so that they could find pages quickly, so here it is...

"The Great Dog Gift Site Map"

You can go straight to the page you are looking for from here without searching around the site and wasting valuable time that could be spent with furry friends...

Enjoy your visit!

Great Dog Gift Home Page

Gifts for Dogs


• Delight your dog with great dog gifts.
  
  
  
  
  
  • Dog Toy--tips for choosing a dog toy wisely, great selection of unique toys.
  
  
  • Puppy Toy--Tips on choosing the best puppy toy for your puppy, safe play, and lots of great
  
  
  • Dog Gift Baskets
  
  
  • A Dog Bed for every kind of dog and every kind of need--pamper your best friend!
  
  
  • Dog Clothes for fun & function and great shopping tips
  
  
  • Dog Jewelry
  
  
  • Rawhide, Bones & Chews
  
  
  • Treats & Biscuits


• Doggie Divas --The newest section of our site for the most pampered dogs in the universe!!!!







Gifts for Dog Lovers




• Dog Portrait artists draw, paint, or digitize a beautiful work of art from your dog's photo


• Dog Art
  
• accessorize your dog art
  
  
• Dog Themed dog Jewelry from classic to whimsical, 14K gold to sterling
  

• Custom Dog Themed Jewelry in 14K gold, sterling, and bronze
  



• ordering custom dog jewelry by design and dog breed
  
  
• Dog Jewelry for Dogs


• Dog T Shirts in every color, size, style and theme--even search by breed


• Dog lover gift collectibles A to Z
  


• Betty Boop
  
• Cool Cats and Hot Dogs


• Cow Parade


• Disney


• Dog Breed Figurines & Sculptures


• Dog Breed Pewter Plates


• mother and puppy dog sculptures and figurines


• adorable and detailed puppy figurines


• Dr. Seuss Collectibles


• Dog themed Mugs


• Sealed With a Kiss Jones Hounds


• Snoopy and Baby Snoopy Collectibles


• Stuffed Animals


• the Heroes collection from Vanmark


• Wizard of Oz


• Zelda Wisdom
  


• Soft, cuddly and unique stuffed dogs for children and dog lovers--for dogs too


• Learn which stuffed dogs are best and safest at which age

Ways to Make Your Gift Shopping Easier



• The Dog Gift Shopper's Guide for Dog Lovers
  


• Match the dog lover gift to the dog lover: Shop By Recipient
  
  
• Baby Gifts for Dog Lovers
  
• Dog gifts for kids of all ages


• Dog Gifts for teens


• Dog Gifts for college students


• Dog Gifts for Senior Citizens


• Dog Gifts for Her


• Dog Gifts for Him


• Dog Gifts for Dog Walkers


• Dog Gift Certificates for Dog Lovers
  
• Dog Gifts for Pet Sitters
  
• Dog themed gifts for the Hunter in your life


• Dog Gifts for a Game Lover


• High tech dog gifts for dog lovers


• Dog Gifts for Golfers
  
• Dog Gifts for Travelers --people who take their dogs everywhere
  
• Dog Gifts for Office Workers
  
• Dog Gifts for Outdoors Lovers


• Dog Gifts for American Heroes (firemen, rescue, law enforcemnt)


• Dog Gifts for Brand Name Lovers


• Dog Gifts for Urban Decor
  
• Dog Gifts for Rustic Decor
  
• Homeowner's Dog Gifts
  
  general
  
  entry way/welcome
  
  kitchen
  
  baby's room
  
  bath
  
  kid's room
  
  bedroom
  
  living/dining room
  
  den/study
  
  rec room/bar
  
  laundry area
  
  garden
  
  
• Shop by Popular Gift Categories
  
  
  
  
  • Dog T Shirts in every color, size, style and theme--even search by breed!
    
  • Dog Art
  
  
  • Dog Portrait
  
  
  • Stuffed Dogs
  
  
  • Mother and Puppy Dog Figurines
  
  
  • Puppy and Dog sculptures
  
  
  • Dog Jewelry
  
  
  • Dog Supplies
  
  
  • Dog Lover Mugs
  
  
  • Dog Lover Gift Baskets
  
  
  • Dog Lover Gift Certificates
  
  
  • Collectibles Gifts for dog lovers categories





Dogs Supplies



• Discount Pets Supplies
  
• Dogs Supplies shopping made fast, easy and convenient
  
• Active Dog


• Aging/Older Dog


• Auto Travel Gear


• Beds


• Books & Media


• Clean Up for Yard and Home


• Dog Clothes


• Collars & Leashes & ID Tags


• Containment , Crates & Kennels


• Feeders & Bowls


• Flea & Tick


• Food


• Gifts for Dogs


• Grooming & Dog Care


• Health Care


• Houses


• New Dog/Puppy


• Pharmacy


• Rawhide, Bones & Chews


• Treats & Biscuits


• Safety


• Toys


• Training Aids
  


• dog crate sources, purchase and training tips


• choose your dogs house wisely--useful tips and housing choices
  



Dog Health and Nutrition

• All about Premium Dog Food, dog Nutrition, and where to shop
  
• Your Dogs Health basic guide and resource center
  



Dog Picture Gallery

• Dog Picture Gallery and Resource Page
  


• dog breed picture gallery A to B
  
• dog breed picture gallery C to G


• dog breed picture gallery H to M
  
• dog breed picture gallery N to R
  
• dog breed picture gallery S to Z


• dog picture gallery bad dogs
  
• dog picture gallery dog noses
  
• dog picture gallery dogs in water
  
• dog picture gallery dogs with accessories
  
• dog picture gallery dogs with children
  
• dog picture gallery dogs with friends
  
• dog picture gallery dogs with toys
  
• dog picture gallery leaping dogs
  
• dog picture gallery mad dogs
  
• dog picture gallery puppy poses
  
• dog picture gallery sad dogs
  
• dog picture gallery sleeping dogs
  
  
• Send us Your Dog Pictures!
  



Great Names for your Dog or Puppy



• Over 5000 free Dog Names plus tips on choosing them


• Over 5000 free puppy names plus tips on choosing them



Great Dog Articles

• Keep up with your Canine Current Events RSS news feed
  
• Great Dog Articles to educate , inform and entertain
  
  
• A dog gift for the 20th century
  
• Are you spoiling your pet? Read the story of how "monters" are created
  
• Charming dog jewelry
  
• Dog and friend make unusual bedfellows
  
• Dog clothes make great gifts
  
• Dog gifts for the homeless
  
• Dog t shirts in every color, size, style and theme--even search by breed!
  
• Dogs and dog lovers in the news
  
• Finding great gifts for the gift-shopping challenged
  
• Holiday Safey for Pets
  
• Inexpensive dog gift items for homeless pets


• learn which stuffed dogs are best and safest at which age


• Pet Charities help Homeless Animals


• Raleigh couple and dogs bike across US to help disabled people


• Safety information for stuffed dog toys


• Training your German Shepherd


• Your dogs health relies on healthy teeth





How to Reach Us




• Great Dog Gift Contact Us page
  



How to Keep Your Ear to the Ground




• Cold Noses News e-zine
  
• Cleo's Corner


• Dog Gift Daily blog





Dog Gift Resources and Links




• Links to favorite Resources






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