One Time It's a Shame We Don't Live Elsewhere

The Dog Lovers Wine Club is one -- no, make it two, great ideas.

Carivintas Winery, a boutique winery in California with the slogan "Love My Dog, Love My Wine," blends its love of wine with its love of philanthropy. With every club membership - monthly, bi-monthly or quarterly - you get a premium crafted bottle of wine at your doorstep bearing the inspirational story of a real dog. Proceeds from the memberships help homeless animals in need. Win-win-win.

This month's wine - a 2004 Santa Barabara County Syrah - is named for Wheeler. The club rates the wines with an informal "Wine Hounds" rating. Wheeler gets 4.95 out of 5 bones. (Sounds pretty good.) You can even get your dog on a label.

Alas, none of this is to be for residents of Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland or New Jersey, or 26 other states. You have to live in a state in which it's legal to receive wine shipments. Know someone in New York or Ohio or Wisconsin who could accept orders for you?

You can check out the club's Web site for things you can receive at home, including very cool watercolor prints of dogs.

A Christmas Blessing for All Rescues

Yes, pet lovers, there is a Santa Claus. Actually, many who are filled with the Christmas spirit every day of the year.

For those who rescue animals, adopt them from groups or shelters, donate to sustain these efforts, or who keep all of these pet lovers in their thoughts, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

And say a special blessing for Gigi, and for Marlene Oetzel, the Lost and Found Dog Rescue, and all of those who work tirelessly to find these creatures forever homes.

Marlene sent me this e-mail about Gigi (left):

"This our little Gigi. She was rescued from a hoarder in Virginia who when she died, her husband put all the dogs in an outside pen with no shelter. Gigi and all the dogs lived in filth and pure muck. Gigi came to us with pneumonia and thankfully lived but it was really touch and go for almost a week. Gigi still does not like to go outside when it's raining. She now lives the life she deserves with her beloved parents in West Chester Pa. This is how we use donations ... to keep saving animals like Gigi."

Amen.

Frodo, the Burping Christmas Dog

Come back tomorrow for a more inspiring Christmas pet message.

In the meantime, enjoy - and laugh - at Frodo. Does your dog burp?

I Met My First Jug

Coming out of the post office this morning, I held the door for a woman with a puppy. It seemed to be a curious mix, so I asked her what it was.

"He's part Jack Russell terrier and part pug," she said as she picked him up. "He's a jug."

She told me about having to put down a dog and how her heart was broken. This 5-month-old puppy named Chase - she said she always has to chase him around the house - was helping to mend that heart.

Chase is a spark plug, with a great face and a very sweet and loving nature.

The Dog Breed Info Center has some more details about this hybrid, including breeders and rescue groups.

Do you have a jug? E-mail me a photo of you cutie to pets@delawareonline.com.

That's One Amazing Dog

You know him. Tillman, the skatingboarding dog made famous in the iPhone commercial.

I've put his video on my blog before. Still, he amazes me.

How can you teach a dog to do that? To be that nimble? So natural on wheels? So nonplussed by all of the people watching him?

What's the most amazing thing that your dog can do?

Cute Dog Afraid of Snow

Is your dog afraid of the snow?

Meet Sushi. Not afraid OF the snow. Just of falling IN it.

Something to make Monday morning a little easier to take.

A Puppy for Christmas, or Not?

Some animal advocates say, please, don't get or give a puppy for Christmas. There will be too much stress on the animal, too many things going on in the home to give the young pup the attention it deserves and, especially if it's a gift to a child, too many other things to grab that child's attention.

Far better to introduce a puppy - or any new creature - when families are in their more normal day-to-day rhythms. Good points all.

On the other side are usually those who run shelters or rescues. If a puppy or any animal is introduced into a family willing to accept the responsibility, what greater gift could there be than taking in and loving another living creature?

I side with the shelter/rescue advocates. They do a good job of screening applicants and if they think someone is trying to adopt just to "please" a child, it's an adoption that's not likely to happen. If you buy from a breeder or some other source, they have the right to say, "Let's wait until after the first of the year or until the spring" if they suspect your motives are good, but the timing isn't quite right.

If you are thinking about a pet as a Christmas gift, make sure you've thought this through and that your whole family is ready to embrace - and care for - this brand new member of the family.

Join a Week in Delaware Devoted to the Animals

In spring, Delaware will get a formal chance to honor the animals. Best Friends Network, which celebrates all animals and supports the bonds between humans and creatures, is planning Delaware Week for the Animals.

Patricia Haddock, the Mid-Atlantic Regional team leader for Best Friends, is working with Mary Ann D'Amato of Delaware Animal Care & Control and other animal advocates to schedule events from April 19-27 (more than a week, but who's counting?). Patricia wants to involve not only big pet and animal groups, but also teachers, scouts, businesses - anyone who cares about and loves animals.

There is so such to celebrate about animals - much like Sean Williams (above) is doing with his dog Sophie - but especially how they make us better human beings. For many of us, our daily defenses and emotional barricades are lowered just by being around animals. Have a pet or two (or more) at home and the unconditional love they provide can't help put lift your spirits, too.

To get involved with Delaware Week for the Animals, go to Best Friends Network or e-mail phhaddock@comcast.net. Join the celebration - and do what you can to build a better relationship between humans and the animals we love.

Watch this blog, too, for more details.

Do Cats Talk?

I'm not sure if they talk, but it's certain they communicate somehow. Look at how these two cock their heads when they "talking" to each other. There's recognition there - and plain old affection.

What do you think? Do animals "talk"?

A Beautifully Haunting Wyeth at Auction

Speaking of the Wyeths, this 1971 Andrew Wyeth painting, "The Intruder," will be available at auction Thursday at Christie's New York.

As you saw this summer in Jamie Wyeth's "Dog Days of Summer" exhibition at the Brandywine River Museum, the artistic Chadds Ford clan does love all animals, especially dogs.

"The Intruder," signed by Wyeth in the upper right, is tempera on panel. His last painting sold at Christie's - "Ericksons" - went for $10.34 million in May. So sadly, the only way for most of us to get this beautifully haunting painting - love the use of light and dark - is to find a print for sale. Good luck.

Master of the Couch and a Bonus Question

Life clearly does imitate art. I found this photo while cleaning out e-mail from our Jamie Wyeth Dog Days of Summer Contest. The image comes from Kathleen Kendall of Newark, with these words:

"There was no mention to send a photo - but I want to share a photo of my dog Dax under the Andrew Wyeth print here at home ... I call it 'Master of the Couch.' "

We call it priceless. Wonder what Andrew Wyeth and Jamie Wyeth would think? Bet they would love the symmetry - and the irony.

Bonus prize (A very cute "I love cat" coffee cup) to the first person who correctly identifies the source of this quote: "Life imitates art far more than art imitates life. "

Why Should Dogs Have All the Fun?

Why should dogs have all of the fun, especially when it comes to Loofas?

For years, Multipet has made the fun Loofa Dogs in all sorts of styles, tied to holidays and other events. Anyone remember Uncle Sam Loofa?

Now, equal time for cats with the creation of Loofa Cat. What self-respecting cat wouldn't thoroughly enjoy chewing on a canine replica, especially one filled with catnip and one that crinkles?

The mini Loofa Cat ($3.99) comes in all sorts of great colors. I found this lavender one at Concord Pet in Middletown.

I'll mail out Loofa Cat to the first person to e-mail me at pets@delawareonline.com about why their cat would love it.

Vick Goes to Prison, But Dogfighting Persists

If you think dogfighting is no longer a problem because Michael Vick is is prison, think again.

I stopped by a Delaware shelter this week, and saw a woman literally drag in a female pit bull mix who had just given birth. The dog was so scared -- her tail was down and between her legs, she was shivering and she lowered her body close to the floor to try to stop from going forward.

The dog was so malnourished that her ribs clearly could be seen through her white hair and skin.

Still, when approached by a welcoming staffer at the shelter, the dog wagged her tail. It is clear evidence of the unconditional love that exists inside these wonderful creatures.

The woman bringing in the dog said the dog was her son's. The staffer asked about the puppies, and the mom said she would bring those in next. The staffer said the dog would have to go to the SPCA because of the apparent abuse.

Unsaid in all of this is that the puppies likely were conceived to be raised for dogfighting. Likely, the ones that didn't "measure up" would end up at the shelter. The others likely would be raised to fight - for sport and for money.

Michael Vick might be in prison, but dogfighting continues in Delaware and across this country. It will take courageous people standing up by alerting the authorities. Dogs like the one dragged into a Delaware shelter deserve the chance to wag their tails for owners who truly respect their right to live.

Philadelphia Dog Shows Add a Twist This Weekend

This weekend's Kennel Club of Philadelphia Dog Shows are adding a twist: Four new breeds, including the Swedish vallhund (above), will make their major U.S. competition debuts.

The beauceron, Tibetan mastiff and plott also will be among the more than 1,200 dogs in 150 breeds competing for Best in Breed, Group Winner and Best in Show honors in Philadelphia. If you can't make the shows in person, the newcomers will be introduced to a nationwide audience from noon to 2 p.m. Thanksgiving Day on NBC's "National Dog Show Presented by Purina."

Like the Wilmington Kennel Club's dog shows the last weekend every April at Lums Pond State Park, visitors are encouraged to see the dogs up close outside of the rings, and to talk to their handlers, owners and breeders. It's a great way to learn about a particular breed or how to handle your dog better.

The Kennel Club of Philadelphia Dog Shows return to Philadelphia this year at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1101 Arch St., in Center City. The shows run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with Best in Show judging winding up each day. Admission is $12 for adults and $6 for kids 11 and younger. For more information, visit http://www.philadogshow.com/ or call (610) 627-1911.

The addition of the four new breeds brings the number of breeds and varieties recognized by the American Kennel Club to 169. The AKC has placed both the vallhund (long a farm dog used for herding cattle and sheep) and the beauceron (related to the long-haired briard) in the Herding Group, while the Tibetan mastiff is part of the Working Group, and the plott (a hunting hound) is in the Hound Group.

Anyone have any of these new breeds? Drop an e-mail and photo to me at pets@delawareonline.com.

Make Time to See Winterthur's 'Pets in America'

If you enjoy pets -- and who among us does not? -- you owe it you and your family to see Winterthur's "Pets in America: The Story of Our Lives with Animals at Home," opening Saturday.


This wonderful exhibit was curated by Katherine Grier, who also wrote "Pets in America: A History," and is a professor in the Winterthur/University of Delaware Program in Early American Culture. She's down to earth, has plenty of her own pets (including a horse named Sipper) and has assembled an exhibit that reflects her personality.

Consider her take on kitty litter. In 1946, Edward Lowe, who sold granulated clay to absorb grease spills, realized that same clay could also be used by cats.

"When kitty litter came along, it rally changed things for cat owners," she says. "The indoor cat -- the one who never goes outside -- might not have been possible without this."

That's driving history home. "Pets in America" even has one of the original five-pound bags from the company's historical vaults on display. That's got to be a first for Winterthur.

One of Grier's favorite items -- and mine, too -- is a small amateur oil painting on black velvet (has to be another Winterthur first) of a cat named Tippy. Grier bought the painting in the '70s for $5 at a junk store in San Antonio, Texas, while she was a student. She was touched by the personal nature of the art.

"I guess because it was homemade," she says of what drew her to it. "It was not some big fancy pet portrait. Even then, I was a curator at heart." She was determined to get it into the show, and it's there.

"Pets in America" continues through Jan. 20. If Grier has one wish for the exhibit, which she's taken to other museums, it's this: "Visitors talk their way through the entire show. I'm really hoping we're going to see that phenomenon here as well." So leave that museum quiet voice behind. Talk. Have fun. Enjoy. Bring the kids.

P.S.: If you are inclined to share, take along a photo of your pet -- the exhibit has a place for pet lovers to post photos and to leave notes. "We're giving visitors an opportunity to join the exhibit," Grier says.

And don't miss the little gift shop -- filled with hundreds of pet-related items -- at the end of the exhibit. I have to get the paw print ornament balls -- black paw prints on a white ornament, or white paw prints on a red one -- for $12. So festive.

A Kitty Miscalculates

Ah, the kitten. So curious. So smart. So adventurous.

Keep watching to find out what happens when kitty makes a serious miscalculation. (Note: No kitty was harmed in the making of this video.)

Coming to Delaware Pets: Bengal Cats

Look for a story and photos in the next issue of Delaware Pets about Bengal cats. Kathy Canavan who wrote the story is so impressed by the athleticism of this fairly recent breed.

"It was stunning the way they caught balls on two legs," she says of Karen Williams' two Bengals, which will be featured in the December issue.

"The main point of the story is the cats are really doglike, enjoy people, being part of the pack.
Also very athletic and muscular."

A fascinating breed you'll read all about in the December issue.

Goodbye, Halloween

We'll leave you with one last Halloween image sent in by HoundManager, with these parting words: "Mr. Bones and Gulliver dressed up as Pancho and Lefty."

Don't you just love the holidays!

Four-Legged Red Sox Fan a Winner

Theresa Minichiello and her dog - both Boston Red Sox fans - dressed for Halloween and bragged about their favorite team at the same time Sunday at Howl-o-ween hosted by Whiskazz and Pawzz in Hockessin.

Minichiello and pooch must have had a very good vibe, because only hours later, the Red Sox won Game 4 against the Colorado Rockies and claimed the World Series title. Both presumably toasted the team's victory. Hopefully, the pooch got a really good bone to chew.

God Save the Corgis

"The Queen," featuring Helen Mirren's Oscar-winning performance as Queen Elizabeth II, details the queen's public and private response to the 1997 death of Princess Diana. It also features the award-winning turn of Poppy, Anna, Alice, Oliver and Megan - five corgis who always brought much-needed levity to "The Queen" and helped to paint a richer picture of Elizabeth's private side.

The dogs won Britain's first-ever Fido Awards for canine cinematic excellence. Trust me, they had to scramble about in the scenes at the queen's country estate. And as you can see from the still photo above, they love the queen. Elizabeth has owned more than 30 of the breed during her 55-year reign.

Mirren, who is filming in the United States, sent a message praising her co-stars.

"I know one should avoid acting with animals and children, but these little chaps were a pleasure to work with and deserve all the plaudits for their fine performances," she said.

If you have a corgi, send me a photo to pets@delawareonline.com, and tell us what you like about this breed.

One Excited Pug

What Kind of Monster Would Strangle a Dog?

It's a question without the possibility of a satisfying answer: What kind of monster would strangle a dog?

On Monday afternoon, a security camera at a Centreville home on Dogwood Slope Road caught a man in a white shirt struggling with the family's 4-year-old golden retriever Kelsey. At 6:10 p.m. that day, the dog's owner found Kelsey dead underneath a large pine tree. The family's vet determined that the dog died from asphyxiation.

But Kelsey really died from cruelty. From meanness. From someone without a heart or a soul. From someone with a wanton disregard of another creature's right to live.

How else to explain looking into Kelsey's sweet face and deciding that he would strangle this dog that apparently was in his way. New Castle County police have determined that it is a trespassing case, and are investigating because of the violence involved.

If you saw anything unusual on Dogwood Slope Road about 2:40 p.m. Monday or soon after, please call the police at 395-8005. Do it for Kelsey.

The Backstreet Boys Never Had Such Moves

Snowball is all that ... and a whole lot more. Check out the moves - and stay tuned for head-banging bow at the end.

Do your birds or other pets dance, sing or tell jokes. OK, the telling jokes part might be tough. If they can do a great trick, e-mail me at pets@delawareonline.com. If you can point me to video online, do that, and I'll post it in the blog.

Ellen, Iggy and What to Do Next

Here's where I stand: Every creature deserves the best home that can be found.

Maybe it's a rescue placing the creature. Maybe it's one person giving the animal to another. Maybe it's someone taking in a stray. Animals deserve a loving home. Period.

You've heard about the Ellen DeGeneres controversy, no doubt. She adopted a dog named Iggy from a rescue group called Mutts and Moms. The black Brussels Griffon mix terrier didn't get along with DeGeneres' cats and she gave the dog to her hairdresser and her two daughters.

That made the rescue angry because it violated its rules for determining the best home. So be it.
Many of us have taken in pets that others couldn't handle or couldn't keep for one reason or another. I took in my friends' cat Thyroid when they moved to London and didn't think he would survive quarantine. I gave Thyroid the best home I could.

That's what it sounds as if Ellen DeGeneres was doing, too - giving Iggy the best home possible.

A Smiling Dog Story That Will Make Your Cry

Meet Baby, the smiling 8-year-old Chihuahua of the Wilson family. Dorothy Wilson writes that the family rescued her from a breeder when she was about 4.

Baby had her eye removed about 6 months ago, Dorothy reports, when she was diagnosed with glaucoma. As you can see, the surgery had no effect on that smile.

Last Wednesday, the Wilson family's sweet little dog they called the "smilin' chi-wawa" and "lil' smiler" passed away.

"She will be missed dearly," Dorothy writes. But, now, everyone can enjoy that great big smile.

Who Wouldn't Want to Read to Her?

This is Annabelle, who along with her owner, Deanna Pedicone, participate as READ (Reading Education Assistance Dogs) volunteers. Each Monday evening, Annabelle and Deanna go to Woodlawn Library in Wilmington to read with kids.

Each child gets a chance to read aloud to Annabelle or another dog. The kids relax, pet the dog while they read, or lean up against it, and don't have to worry about anyone saying they're reading too fast, too slow or pronouncing words incorrectly.

It's just nonjudgmental reading fun.

Deanna reports that Annabelle will be wearing a new costume for READ's Halloween event from 6:30-8 p.m. Oct. 29. And kids are encouraged to come in costume, too. The library will have Halloween-themed books, snacks and craft activities.

For more information, call Woodlawn Library, 2101 W. Sixth St., at 571-7425.

Baby Porcupine Eats a Banana. Really.

This baby porcupine - also called a porcupet - eats a banana. Really.

The tiny squeaks are hiccups.

The video poster writes that his mother was killed when she was hit by a car and he has been cared for by a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Good for her.

The orphan porcupine is now living at a nature center in northern Minnesota. What this proves is there is a place for each creature.

And a place for cute videos.

Cat Photo of the Day

Delaware Pets' Cutest Cat Contest has long since passed, but this photo looks as if it would have made this cutie a contender.

Maureen Moss e-mailed this photo of Abby, whom she adopted through Dumpter Cats Rescue League in Kirkwood. She wrote this bit of background about her beauty:

"Abby was adopted from Dumpster Cats Rescue League about 3 years ago. She has grown to be a beautiful, loving girl."

And curious.

Congratulations, Maureen and Dumpster Cats for making this forever connection.

Why One Family Loves Their Ferrets

Jennifer and I traded e-mail about a pet issue, and in one e-mail she included photos of her family's pet ferrets. In the top photo, that's Gizmo near the dandelions, and the bottom one is Missy, looking exceptionally cute.

Jennifer says they adopted Missy about two years ago from a family that planned to take her to the SPCA. "She is a delight!" she says. They've had Gizmo for about three years.

"Ferrets are a lot of fun," Jennifer wrote. "Both of them have very different personalities. Gizmo is very laid back and, sorry to say, lazy. Missy is on the other end of the energy spectrum. She is always into something. Knocking things off shelves, etc. She is also a huge kleptomanic. We find her 'treasures' everywhere."

And here's a special shout-out to Jennifer's daughter. She's a lover of all kinds of animals, and that's pretty special in my book.

It's Time to Walk for the Animals

One of my favorite pet events each year is the Delaware Humane Association's Walk for the Animals at Banning Park.

It's a place where you meet cute dogs -- Brussels Griffons Horatio (left) and MacDuff -- and really nice people -- that's Arden Lantz of Newport, who is featured in the current issue of Delaware Pets.

Patrick Carroll, the association's director of development, and I were talking about how much we both enjoy seeing so many dogs in one place -- so many happy dogs, I might add -- and so many different breeds. The only other event with so many breeds in the same place would be a dog show, and those pooches are in full competition mode. This is pure fun.

Patrick says the humane association is hoping to top the 600 registered walkers from last year. You can still register the day of the event -- $35 per adult; $5 for ages 6-16; ages 5 and younger free. Kids 15 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m.; the 1-mile walk at 11:30 a.m.

Delaware Humane has plenty of additional info about the walk on its Web site. Think seriously about spending part of your Sunday to benefit dogs and other animals through the work the Delaware Humane Association does.

Banning Park is on Maryland Avenue in Newport, not far the Wilmington city limits. And on Sunday morning, it will be THE place for dog (and people) watching.

See the Yoga Dog Dish Winners

We found the coolest dog dish -- it's covered with animated images of dogs doing yoga poses -- for the latest issue of Delaware Pets, and offered it as a prize to our readers. The winners, chosen at random, were Deneen and Ron of Wilmington, and their two Jack Russells, Jake and Cody. (Deneen reports they are sharing the dish.)

Deneen found the photo above of the dogs. Here is her cute entry:

"I feel our dog deserves this yoga dish (actually we have 2 dogs). They are both very hyper Jack Russells and on top of them never being able to truly settle down, my husband and I just bought a new home. Of course anytime a pet owner makes drastic changes in the home environment the animals are affected.

"Both Jake and Cody have truly been so accommodating and acclimated fairly well so far to the changes. Now if we could really get them to practice yoga they may entirely relax for a change :)"

Congratulations, Deneen and Ron -- and Jake and Cody. Glad to hear Jake and Cody can share.

Kent County SPCA Provides Low-Cost Spay/Neuter

If you've been thinking about getting your pet spayed or neutered, the Kent County SPCA has a deal for you.

Mary Ann D'Amato, community outreach manager for the SPCA, has gotten a grant to provide low-cost treatment of pets -- no strays, no wild animals, no rescue group animals -- for pet owners who cannot afford standard veterinarian fees. She says the money should last through the end of the year.

For a $20 co-pay for a cat or a dog, the pet owner gets:

* Their pet spayed or neutered.
* A heart worm test for dogs; feline leukemia/AIDS for cats
* A microchip implanted.
* A rabies shot.
* And for $10 more, a distemper shot. There's a $20 additional fee if the pet is pregnant.

You need to make an appointment at the shelter by calling 698-3006 or (888) 352-7722, and your have to bring the pet to the shelter, 32 Shelter Circle, in Camden. The folks at the SPCA will take it from there.

There really is no excuse with programs like this -- and dedicated people like Mary Ann and the vets who contribute their services -- not to get your pet spayed or neutered. We all owe it to the world of animals to do what we can to prevent unwanted animals from being born, to significantly reduce the number of homeless animals and to greatly decrease the number of animals who end up being euthanized.

A Dumpster Cats Success Story

In each issue of Delaware Pets, we spotlight a local shelter or rescue group. They all do important work with little accompanying media attention, so this is our way of shining a little light on the good that's done.

With each story, we ask pet lovers who have adopted animals from the groups or shelters to e-mail us photos.

Cori Calvert of Newark sent in this photo and a few others of the most adorable cat - Joe - whom she adopted from Dumpster Cats Rescue League. She also attached this note:

"When Gail Price rescued a brother and sister pair of abandoned kittens in the summer of 2000, I contacted Dumpster Cats about adopting one of them. The male, Joe, came home with me and turned out to be an absolute joy! I cannot recommend Gail Price's Dumpster Cats rescue and adoption services more highly. To anyone looking to adopt a kitten, I would encourage them to choose one from the many homeless Dumpster Cats that Gail has rescued."

Why So Many Pooches as Pimps?

Sandy Camacho e-mailed in these two great guys with these words: "Reggie and Samson look so stylish in their purple pimp outfits."

Can't argue with that one bit. That is a classic pose, and Reggie and Samon do pull off the whole look. Love the bling.

I have just one question: Why do so many dog lovers dress up their pooches as pimps? It must be the contrast -- these loving creatures dressed as neighborhood tough guys.

Or maybe they just look good in purple.

E-mail your photos of your pets in their Halloween costumes to pets@delawareonline.com. We'll assemble them into a photo gallery - a rogues gallery -- to give you plenty of ideas for this year. Plus, we'll pick one submitter at random to receive a $25 Concord Pet gift certificate.

Great Smile, Molly Gwen Bennett

Pamela Bennett of Middletown sent me this sweet photo of her smiling dog Molly Gwen Bennett. We received so many photos of smiling dogs that we couldn't include all of them in the September issue of Delaware Pets. (Look for the first photo gallery of more smiling dogs elsewhere are on this page. I plan to build another.)

Molly is an almost 2 years old part border collie who loves to smile. Molly's note to me says:

"I have a great mom and dad. They adopted me from the Delaware Humane Society. I have a baby sister, Lucy May, and she also was adopted from the Delaware Humane Society and she is more than 1 year old (part black Lab).

"I love to play with Lucy and run in my big back yard and play with my toys. Dad and I are trying to teach Lucy how to smile, but it's taking a little longer for her as she is still a baby. She does smile some but not like me."

Great smile, indeed, Molly.

Shop at Macy's, Help the Animals

Our friends at the Delaware Humane Association will be one of the beneficiaries of Macy's annual Shop for a Cause event from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Oct. 13 at Christiana or Concord malls.

Here's how it works: Buy a ticket for $5 from Delaware Humane. That ticket entitles you to 10-20 percent off on most purchases at Macy's on Oct. 13 only. Delaware Humane keeps 100 percent of the ticket money it collects. You get some great shopping bargains at a wonderful store. Everybody wins, but most importantly, the animals get even more help.

To get tickets, call Debby Armstrong at Delaware Humane at 571-8171, ext 301, e-mail her at darmstrong@dehumane.org, or stop by the shelter, located at 701 A Street in Wilmington, DE.
For more information, visit http://www.macys.com/campaign/shopforacause.jsp.

Why Our Pets Mean So Much

I don't know why I'm still amazed at the love people have for their pets - I see it all of the time. Yet, that selfless act still touches me. Take this note I received from Michael in Wilmington, who entered our Yoga Dog Dish Contest:

"I have two golden retrievers who are mother and daughter. Their names are Rain and Skyy. I used to free feed the two of them so each of them would eat out of the same bowl at different times. In early June, Rain who is 6 1/2 was diagnosed with leukemia. She is now on a special diet and I have to take turns feeding them.

"Rain has undergone six rounds of aggressive chemo with Dr. Pullen at the Vet Specialty Center on Maryland Avenue. She takes about 10 pills a day. Now, Rain is always fed first, since she is ill and is older. Skyy waits patiently for Rain to finish and then is fed afterwards. I've been meaning to get another bowl, so I can feed them at the same time and Skyy doesn't have to wait. Rain has been through so much."

Godspeed, Rain and Michael and Skyy.

Yoga Goes to the Dogs

You've heard of yoga for dogs, right? (Dogs do the poses with their owners.)

Now, you can carry the pilates inspiration over to their food. Danica makes this 6-inch dog dish ($10.99) featuring the warrior pose on the bottom and additional scenes -- leg lift, lotus and the pilates lion pose -- ring the outside.

We found this dish at Pet Kare II in Pencader Plaza on Del. 72 near Newark.

Send an e-mail -- put "Yoga Dish Contest" in the subject line -- to pets@delawareonline.com, and let us know why your dog needs this dish. Include your name and daytime contact info. Deadline for entry is Sept. 28.

A Cat Prison Break

What's the smartest thing that your cat can do?

This one's not bad -- and love the accompanying music -- but my sister's cat Sylvester could turn on the radio. He loved to listen to bluegrass music.

The Worst Possible Jury for Michael Vick

A pet-loving friend of ours sent us of this cartoon. (We got permission from the artist's syndicate to publish it here for a small sum. We do respect the sanctity of the copyright.)

Anyway, I love the cartoon. Scooby-Doo and Snoopy sure have the hate vibe going on, don't they? And the best thing is that Michael Vick looks, well, just a bit unsure of what he's up against. This is probably why he pleaded guilty -- too afraid to face a jury of his peers.

The cartoonist's name is Gary Varvel, and he's got a blog on the Web site of his home paper, The Indianapolis Star, if you want to see more of his work. Here is Gary's blog post for this cartoon:

"I just had a contest for guessing the caricatures so I'm not going to do another one so soon. But I will name for you the cartoon dogs in my cartoon. Back Row from the left: Scooby Doo, Goofy, Underdog, Astro (from the Jetsons). Front Row from the left: Snoopy, Droopy, Grimmy (from Mother Goose and Grim comic strip) and Ren (from Ren and Stimpy animated TV show)."

Gary's syndicate rep says lots of papers picked up this cartoon, so enjoy -- and share it with your dog-loving friends.

A Doggone Fun Wine

I am a wine store wanderer. I like to walk the aisles looking at the bottles and especially the labels. (I do have a thing for shiraz, but after that I'm not too picky.)

I stopped by a new wine store in Middletown -- Cochran Liquors on Main Street (not far from Lowe's and The Home Depot) -- and wandered the aisles. What I found was Jim Jim (The Down-Underdog) 2005 Shiraz ($10.99).

The label tells the story of the half Labrador and half kelpie -- an Australian sheep dog -- who is at home in the vineyard of south Australia. Jim Jim, the label says, starts eating the grapes of his favorite variety -- shiraz -- right off the vine when they reach "optimum ripeness." With that kind of knowledge, it's no wonder a smart dog like Jim Jim gets a prime spot on the label. And his own Web site and MySpace page (of course!)

How does the wine taste? I'll let you know as soon as I try it, but I love the screw top.

Do you know of any other wines that feature dogs on the label? Or cats?

Have You Heard the One About the Dogs Talking?

If you don't have a sound card, send yourself this link to a computer that does.

These dogs are great, especially the last one, so stay with it.

Amazing!

They Made Me Wear This!

This has got to be one of my favorite Halloween pet costumes EVER -- Frankenpug.

We need some cutlines in the comments on this one. Post away. Prize to the funniest one.

Would You Want Vick's Help to Fight Dogfighting?

If you ran an animal organization, would you want Michael Vick -- NFL star quarterback, dogfighter, felon -- to make a public-service announcement for your group about what a bad thing dogfighting is?

That's the question I asked Jane Pierantozzi, the executive director of Faithful Friends, when she called she me Tuesday. Would his celebrity, and now, infamy, and his ability to reach people outweigh his obvious drawbacks?

Jane says PR, no. Getting out in the community, yes.

"I don't think they're going to respond to Vick on TV" in a public-service commercial, Jane says. If she thought he was sincere about getting involved in community outreach, in contributing money to the cause, in talking with people about why dogfighting is wrong or starting a tipline, she would take his help.

Jane was struck by something Vick said after pleading guilty Monday. He said he needed to grow up. "It's more than just growing up," she says. What he did involved violence and criminal activity, and he lied about it, she says. You shouldn't have to grow up to understand any of that.

Would you accept Michael Vick's help, his money, his community service if he offered it?

Coming Up: Lots of Smiling Dogs

In the September issue of Delaware Pets, writer Claire Bushey gets some answers to the question: Do dogs smile? Look for the issue in pet-related businesses, starting Sept. 13, and look for a photo gallery featuring lots of the photos we received in the next few days. To whet your appetite, here are two:

TOP PHOTO: That's Abby, the 6-year-old German shepherd of David and Melissa Hopkins of Newark, finding a great spot to relax.

BOTTOM PHOTO: That's Massimo -- love the name -- sent in by Lindsay Ballas of Wilmington. What breed of dog do you think Massimo is?

This is What They Call a Moveable Feast

Nancy Stephens sent four years worth of Halloween costumes for her "pups." The one above is pure creativity. The dogs went as an Italian dinner -- (from left) -- Side Salad, Spaghetti and Meatballs, and Bread Basket.

Totally yum.

Send Us Pics of Your Halloween-Costumed Pets

Dan Long e-mailed us a photo of Bruzer, the Pug Pimp. I never thought I'd write these words, but ... That pimp is precious in purple.

E-mail photos of your pets in their Halloween costumes to pets@delawareonline.com. We'll assemble them into a photo gallery to give you plenty of costume ideas.

Plus, we'll pick one submitter at random to get a $25 Concord Pet gift certificate!

Dogs Can Make a Statement With Their Paws

You know those yellow LiveStrong bands that adorn everybody's wrists? Now, dogs get the chance to wear a message of their own.

Aria's Banter Bands, elasticized to fit easily over a paw, carry the funniest directives:

"Bite hard"

"Bark loud"

"Run fast"

"Fetch it"

And my favorite, "Beg smart." As if they need further encouragement to do that!

Banter Bands (99 cents each) can be found on the counter at Pet Kare II, 250 Pencader Plaza, near Newark.

Arrrrgghh, Turn Your Pooch into a Pirate

Let the pet costume season officially begin.

I was in Concord Pet in Middletown this weekend, but didn't see any Halloween costumes. But leave it to Disney to get a jump start.

Love this pirate getup ($9.50) -- even if the pooch doesn't looked that thrilled -- from "Pirates of the Carribean." The Disney Store online also has Minnie and Mickey costumes, Tinker Bell (so adorable), "Incredibles" and a generic princess (oh so pink). All for $9.50.

Do you have a favorite photo of your pet in a costume -- Halloween or otherwise? E-mail it to pets@delawareonline.com. We'll share some photos on this blog and also in a photo gallery on this site.

Michael Vick Should Make a Plea Deal

Michael Vick's co-defendants in his dogfighting indictment are caving, making and taking their own legal deals. When Vick hired Billy Martin -- who famously represented Monica Lewinsky -- many took that as a sign that he would make a deal as well.

ESPN reports that lawyers for the Atlanta Falcons star quarterback are working on a deal, and they want their multimillionaire client to spend less than a year in prison. Vick is scheduled to go on trial Nov. 26.

According to a statement signed by one of those co-defendants, Tony Taylor, Vick was the money behind "Bad News Kennels'" dogfighting activities at Vick's Virginia property. That's pretty damning, and I'm sure the other two co-defendants will have much the same story to tell the court.

Vick needs to make a deal. Do it now and prosecutors will agree to less than the five years of prison he could face. Will they agree to less than a year?

It might depend on what else Vick is willing to do. He needs to volunteer to join forces with the national SPCA or Humane Society organizations to speak out against the cruelty that is dogfighting. Let him confess his sins publicly on "60 Minutes" or "Dateline NBC," and offer to cooperate with federal authorities to help break up more dogfighting rings.

Americans love someone who admits his faults, asks for forgiveness and works hard to change his behavior. A plea deal now would be the first step for Michael Vick on this path.

With This Paw, I Thee Wed

Switzer is getting married.

All 100 pounds of his loving Rottweiler dog self (right) to his longtime girlfriend who he met at the park -- the bark park at Carousel Park. His fiancee is Nana (left), a petite -- 50 pounds, OK not that petite -- Huskie/chow mix from the SPCA.

"He loves her," says Switzer's owner, Sharon Naylor, describing how the two love birds like to play and especially wrestle with each other.

And when the two exchange vows, I mean paws, at 4 p.m. Sept. 30 at the bark park, the local animal community will benefit. Naylor is working with all sorts of pet shops and shelters to make this into a real event. In lieu of gifts, the happy couple ask that donations be made to Faithful Friends, through which Switzer is a therapy dog, and the SPCA.

More details on the blessed event: Whiskazz and Pawzz in Hockessin is making the bridal gown. Happy Dog Healthy Dog in Trolley Square is making the wedding cake. Invitations are going out to the couple's favorite human friends and family. Someone will officiate, someone will sing, the couple will have a groomsman and a flower girl, and the happy pair will exchange matching collars and leads.

And, yes, Naylor says, there's even a prenup. Since Nana can't have children, she has agreed that Switzer could father pups with -- horrors! -- another female partner. Oh, that's what they call an open marriage.

Are Polar Bears the New Penguins?

As always, I notice animals and other creatures and the attention they get. I think polar bears are usurping the pop culture stage from penguins. Here's my evidence:

* "Arctic Tale," a new documentary in theaters Aug. 17, featuring two narratives that show how difficult life is in the Arctic: the life cycle of a polar bear and her cubs, and the same thing with a walrus and her calf. Rated G. Starbucks, which is helping to market the movie, is selling stuffed polar bears and walruses.

* The Philadelphia Zoo is having Bear Awareness Days from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Satuday and Sunday (Aug. 11-12). Zoo staff and representatives from the National Wildlife Federation and Defenders of Wildlife will talk about conservation efforts, and teach little ones about polar bears and all other bears.

* Knut is the most thing in Germany since bratwurst. This little polar bear cub - who's not so little anymore - was rejected by his mother at a Berlin zoo. A few animal rights activists advocated that he should be killed; the zoo and the German public said no way, and he is being raised by zookeepers. Now, there are Knut T-shirts, mugs, keychains, stuffed animals, Web sites, videos, and a huge adoring worldwide public.

* A polar bear pops up in the middle of "The Simpsons" movie, and anything the Simpsons touch must be pop culture gold.

The Shame of Dogfighting

I hope you read Cris Barrish's story Sunday on dogfighting in Delaware. It's here, and if we close our eyes and ears to it and say it's someone else's problem, it will continue to slink around the shadows of our cities and towns and rural areas.

It is, in a word, unconscionable.

I don't want to hear about cultural differences or geographic differences or whether people grew up in the city or the country. Those are excuses. Plain old, run-of-the-mill excuses.

No one who has been around animals for any length of time can justify one animal fighting with another. We used to separate the cows that got unruly with each other on the farm, and the same thing with the neighborhood dogs who felt compelled to show who was the biggest, baddest alpha dog of them all.

For those who thought the photos that went with Sunday's story were too graphic, I say we need to show the effects of dogfighting to the general public. They need to see what these abusers consider to be "sport." Words alone won't get people to call the SPCA or the police when they hear dogs yelping in a park, or growling and barking on a nearby farm.

They need to see the consequences of doing nothing.

Believe It: A Michael Vick Dog Chew Toy

It's almost a given in America: Have a tragedy or a controversy, and someone surely will try their darndest to profit. Enter the Official Michael Vick Dog Chew Toy ($7.95, plus $2 shipping and handling).

The Web site says it was created "to help the Humane Society shed some light on this horrendous sport of dogfighting." A portion of the profits, it says, will go to the Jacksonville, Fla., Humane Society to help spread awareness.

Part of me cringes - we're going to line someone's pockets and give a dog the likeness of a human being to chew? And part of me yells "Absolutely!" - help the humane society, let your dog chew on this apparent villain and keep this issue in the spotlight anway you can.

But why couldn't someone sell buttons that say, "Dogfighting Stinks" instead? That, I would buy and wear.

That Loveable Lenox

Joseph sent me this video link of Lenox, a 4-year-old dog with his own MySpace page and kids who love to sing to him.

Also, check out the back yard at Grandma's "where he has a half-acre to run around and act like a cazy man."

Bulldogish on the Pet Business

If you get a chance, pick up last week's Business Week (Aug. 6) with a bulldog wearing a tiara and plenty of other bling. The cover headline, "The Pet Economy/Americans now spend $41 billion on their pets. And a lot of humans are getting rich."

My favorite facts from the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association and this story:

* 42 percent of dogs now sleep in the same bed as their owners, up from 34 percent in 1998. (Petey, my old mutt, always slept with me and slept as long as I did. Her head right next to mine on the pillow.)

* 77 percent of dogs and 52 percent of cats have been medicated in the past year -- a 20 percentage-point increase since 1996.

* After consumer electronics, pet care is the fastest-growing category in retail, expanding about 6 percent a year. (Good to know, right, stock market players?)

* Americans spend $9.8 billion on vet services, which doesn't include the medications and other supplies.

* Half of all dog owners say they consider their pets when buying a new car.

* Almost a third of dog owners buy their pooches gifts for their birthdays (and I'm sure Christmas, too).

What do you think? Do people spend too much on their pets? Not enough, or just the right amount. Or is it all the owner's business and everyone else can just butt out?

Who Knew?

Who knew .. that bunny jumping was a competitive sport?

Winner Chosen in Wyeth 'Dog Days' Contest

We have a winner. Nah, not the Shar-Pei (above), but more on him later.

N. Larry Gladnick of Wilmington was chosen at random from the more than 140 entries for the signed copy of "Dog Days of Summer: Works by Jamie Wyeth" exhibit catalog. Wyeth signed it, "To another dog lover! Jamie Wyeth."

Larry sent along a photo of his dog, Dr. LiJie Fu, the very cute Chinese Shar-Pei named after a good friend of his. His son took the photo in 2006. For the contest, tied to an art exhibit at the Brandywine Art Museum in Chadds Ford that celebrates dogs, we asked contestants to tell us what they love so much about these creatures. Here is Larry's entry:

"I love dogs because they are unconditional. I like each dog I meet for different reasons. Dogs will always show their love, care, and concern, whether you do or not. Their natural poses are so comforting to all. You know there must be a God after loving a dog."

Hard to argue with any of that. Congratulations and enjoy the catalog, Larry.

The Interlopers Speak Up

We cooked up the "Dog Days of Summer: Works by Jamie Wyeth" catalog contest and we excluded people from distant states or countries. Seems fair to me that the the signed catalog should go to someone nearby -- a perk for living here.

I called the faraway people "interlopers," and a couple of them had cute responses that I thought I'd share:


Nathan: "Being an interloper from Illinois, I am not able to enter the contest, but would like to tell you my story anyway. On the day Jamie Wyeth was signing books at Brandywine River Museum, I had flown into Philadelphia to surprise my granddaughter, who was turning 12 years old that day. She lives in Wilmington, DE. and loves the Blue Rocks baseball team, so I had bought tickets to the game. I read the Delawareonline news most everyday. And saw that Jamie was going to be signing books, but problem was, he was signing same time as the ballgame. So I will buy a book, because I am an animal lover (have Pomeranian named Snickers) but won't have signed copy. But just wanted to let you know how things worked out for me. Thanks, and keep up the good stories. I am not the chosen one, but am one of the chosen few."

I told Nathan it was a pleasure to read about someone with his priorities so much in order.

Gary and Dr. Kathleen: "What? No interlopers? Those of us who still read delawareonline everyday are pretty upset. Since we are unable to get to Jamie's exhibit because we are out of state, is there another way to purchase a "signed" copy. We are dog lovers, Wyeth fans and former colleagues of Jamie. If possible, please forward this e-mail directly to him. We thought this might be our chance to get the signed catalog but since you have excluded us, we'll have to search for other means to obtain one."

I've shipped this e-mail off to a couple of people who might be able to help. Good luck, kind interlopers!

STAY TUNED: Winner will be announced Wednesday!

Win a Free Jamie Wyeth Signed 'Dog Days' Catalog

Jamie Wyeth loves his dogs, he loves his work and he totally embraced the idea of pairing the two when someone suggested he assemble an exhibit featuring his paintings and drawings of dogs. That's how "Dog Days of Summer: Works by Jamie Wyeth" came to be at Brandywine River Museum in Chadds Ford, Pa.

Wyeth was kind enough to sign an exhibit catalog for us to give away through Delaware Pets with these words, "To another dog lover! Jamie Wyeth."

If you go to see the exhibit, make sure you see his regal painting "Newfoundland," (above) featuring one of his favorite dogs Boom Boom, with the ocean full behind him and a threatening sky. In the catalog, Wyeth remembers Boom Boom, "He would shake his head and the saliva would end up on the ceiling and he had a sort of majesty about him. The tragedy of big dogs is they die so young. That is what I hate - and the death of a dog wrecks me infinitely more than the death of a person. So after Boom Boom, I said no more big dogs."

Wyeth was featured on the cover of the July issue of Delaware Pets with his Jack Russell terriers -- true to his word about smaller dogs -- at his Chester County farm.

Now, to be eligible for a random drawing for the "Dog Days" catalog, you must:

* E-mail us in 50 words or less what you like best about dogs. Include your name, mailing address, and a daytime contact number to pets@delawareonline.com
* Be from Delaware or nearby surrounding counties. You interlopers from Texas, California and South Africa are out.
* Send that e-mail by midnight Tuesday, July 31.
* Not be a News Journal employee or a member of his or her immediate family.
* Be a dog lover. OK, we'll fudge that part to include art lovers, Wyeth fans and cat people, too.

Ah, to Love a Dog ...

We've received a flood of entries for our contest to win a free, signed catalog of Jamie Wyeth's "Dog Days of Summer" exhibit at the Brandywine River Museum. (If you're planning to enter, send that e-mail to pets@delawareonline.com by midnight Tuesday.

In the meantime, enjoy this soliloquy from John Waldorf of Chadds Ford, Pa., on why he loves dogs. (This doesn't mean he's going to win. The winner will be chosen at random from all entries.)

"Dogs are great. They are always happy to see you and love even your worst cooking. Sure, they pee on your floor and eat all the food you don't secure, but I'm sure you've had human friends (who weren't nearly as sorry) do that too."

Have truer, more heartfelt words ever been written?

A Football Field Is No Place for Michael Vick

Take care of your legal problems, Michael Vick. Your football career can wait.

Someone in Vick's inner circle should tell him the best thing for him to do is to take a leave from his team -- the Atlanta Falcons -- and from the NFL. Already, the NFL has made it clear it does not want him in training camp, and the Falcons have done likewise by naming a new starting quarterback.

Everyone wants to stay as far away from the dogfighting charges that Vick faces because they're afraid of the backlash from fans, sponsors, advertisers. But the NFL and the Falcons have to walk a fine line -- Vick has a right to due process, and the presumption in our legal system is that he is innocent. The prosecution has to prove his guilt.

Wayne Pacelle, president of the Humane Society of the United States, said the NFL did the right thing in ordering Vick not to attend training camp.

"Officials from the NFL rightly recognized that it just cannot be business as usual for Vick and the Falcons with this chilling set of facts laid out in the federal indictment," Pacelle said in a statement. "It is our sincerest hope that Michael Vick not suit up for play prior to the resolution of these serious charges in federal court."

Vick has done one smart thing so far: He's reportedly hired a pretty good lawyer -- Billy Martin who represented Monica Lewinsky -- to help him answer the charges. His first date in court is Thursday.

Now, it's time for the legal system to work. For the charges to be presented against Vick and three others. For Vick and the others to defend themselves. And if needed, for a jury to decide his guilt or innocence.

Above everything else, Michael Vick needs to learn quickly that this not the time even to think about his place on a football field.

Win a Signed Jamie Wyeth 'Dog Days' Catalog

This is your chance to win a signed Jamie Wyeth catalog for his ongoing exhibit, "Dog Days of Summer: Works by Jamie Wyeth" at the Brandywine River Museum in Chadds Ford, Pa.

Wyeth was kind enough to sign one of the 411 catalogs the museum sold last Tuesday with these words, "To another dog lover! Jamie Wyeth."

The artist was featured on the cover of the July issue of Delaware Pets with his Jack Russell terriers at his Chester County farm. His exhibit, featuring more than 60 paintings and drawings of dogs (and at least one presidential cat), continues at the museum through Sept. 3.

Now, to be eligible for a random drawing for the catalog, you must:

* E-mail us in 50 words or less what you like best about dogs. Include your name, mailing address, and a daytime contact number to pets@delawareonline.com

* Be from Delaware or nearby surrounding counties. You interlopers from Texas, California and South Africa are out.

* Send that e-mail by midnight Tuesday, July 31.

* Not be a News Journal employee or a member of their immediate family.

* Be a dog lover. OK, we'll fudge that part to include art lovers, Wyeth fans and cat people.