Do You Worry About Sunburned Pets?

With the sunny and hot weather apparently directly in front of us, it's a good time to consider how summer affects our pets, especially dogs, who spend time outdoors.

Denise Morrison Yearian, one of our freelance writers, is working on that very story for the next issue of Delaware Pets. She's found plenty of pet owners who deal with the heat side of summer. What she needs is someone who has to worry about their dogs (or other pets) - because of light-colored or thin-coated fur - having problems with sunburn.

If you pet has been sunburned or you worry about it, please e-mail contact info to me at pets@delawareonline.com, and I'll get Denise in touch with you.

Thanks for the help - and the insight.

Wilmington Kennel Club Dog Shows This Weekend

It's a little taste of Westminster in our backyard.

The Wilmington Kennel Club hosts its annual dog shows Friday (starting at 9 a.m.) and Saturday (starting at 8:30 a.m.) at Lums Pond State Park near Glasgow. Best in Show winners are crowned each day late in the afternoon, but judging goes on all day, each day in 14 different rings.

It's great to see the more than 1,500 dogs compete, first by breed, then by category and, at the end of the day, for Best in Show. Many of the dogs just seem to know how to "work the ring" and the judges.

It's also fun to see all of the variety of breeds, some of which you don't get to see very often. My favorite rarities are Bouvier Des Flandres (absolutely beautiful dogs) and Komondoroks (they look like dust mops with off-white dreadlocks). And the dog handlers and owners are some of the nicest people outside of the ring, too. Most are happy to have you pet their dogs and will tell you plenty about them.

If you go, dog show organizers ask that you leave your own dogs at home. They can distract the dogs that are competing, or cause a ruckus outside of the rings. Leave the pooches at home, and just come to marvel and to learn.

Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors and kids 6 and older, and free for kids 5 and younger. The shows take place near the campground entrance for the park on Del. 71. Bring a chair if you plan to stay for a while, and concessions and pet vendors will be on site.

A portion of the proceeds will go to support the New Castle County K-9 Unit, and Saturday's schedule will include a demonstration by that unit during the noon lunch break.

A Pet-Loving Designer

After Sunday's 5K walk, we made the rounds of the tables at the pet fair at Killens Pond State Park. One of the nicest people there was Catherine Hefferan, a graphic designer who does all things pets under her business, Cathulu! Cards and Gifts. You can see - and shop - her work on Cafe Press. Or e-mail her at rummah2001@hotmail.com.

The great baseball jersey she has on in the photo - love the simple idea and the artwork - is $16.99 on her site. T-shirts go from $8.99 to $26.99 for a hoodie. And one of my favorite items is the Cat Journal ($9.49), featuring a big gray cat on the cover playing with a purple ball of yarn. Don't tell me your cat's antics - or yours - couldn't easily fill the journal's 160 pages.

Meet Nero the Great

One of those happy (I think he was happy?!?) to be at Sunday's Furry Scurry at Killens Pond was Nero, the Great Dane puppy of Larry and Cris Rhoads of Harrington.

Larry says Nero is just 9 months old and weighs 130 pounds. Nero's dad weighed 180, so at least in his genes, there is room to grow.

We saw Nero later on the 5K walk and he did appear to be enjoying himself, and exercising those great long legs.

Great Turnout for Furry Scurry

The weather was cooperative for Sunday morning's Furry Scurry, a 5K run/walk fundraiser for the Kent County SPCA at Killens Pond State Park near Felton. More than 300 people signed up to participate, including the Garrisons (Lisa and John, above) and their sons, Noah and Leon, who participated in the Kiddie K (Noah finished first!).

The Garrisons of Milton brought dogs Serena (a Pekingnese mix), Dorry (a pug) and Jazzy (a Doberman) to the festivities.

After the run/walk, pet vendors, pet agencies, nonprofits and rescue groups set up for a fair in the park. The event is one of the first in the Delaware Week for the Animals. I ran into Patricia Haddock, one of the organizers of the week, and says there are more than 50 events across the state throughout the week. She says she is particularly pleased with the variety of events and the national speakers who will be here.

Check out the week's Web site to find something that is right for you.

Watch here for more from Sunday's Furry Scurry and the pet fair.

Photo of the Day: Puppies

Are those two great faces, or what? Wyatt e-mailed this photo of Drake and Remy, a couple of book-end-matching 3-month-old Labs.

If you have a cute photo of your dog - or any other pet - e-mail it to pets@delawareonline.com and we'll give it a boost here or in a photo gallery for everyone to see.

Thanks for the great photo, Wyatt.

A Week Just for the Animals

I loved this photo shoot of little Brad Olin of Clayton and his dog Doozer. We used one of the photos on the cover of the latest issue of Delaware Pets, and here, you get another one. It's emblematic of the relationship that we all will be celebrating during Delaware's first Week for the Animals, starting Saturday and running through April 27.

There are events that criss-cross the state. Fun things like Sunday's Furry Scurry at Killens Pond State Park - an event I'm attending - and serious ones like Nathan Winograd's April 27 workshop on how to create a no-kill Delaware.

Just find your event - new ones seem to be added every day- and celebrate all that is true and good about the animals we share our lives with.

A Mexican Cat Dance

That's Pork Chop enjoying, OK, not enjoying an oversized sombrero. By the way, we have the same sombrero at home that a stuffed grizzly bear sits on. (Don't even ask!)

Unfortunately, we don't have a cat to wear (or not wear) our sombrero.

What's the funniest thing your cat will (or won't) do? Post here or e-mail me at pets@delawareonline.com.

Photo of the Day: Marmaduke?

Is that Marmaduke poking out his head on Thursday at Battery Park in Old New Castle?

Nope, that's Montego, a 2-year-old Great Dane who was enjoying the sunshine and temperatures in the 70s. Montego is owned by Karin Roseman of Greenville who, along with her mother, Silvya Horn, was walking her two dogs, Montego and Fitzgerald, at the park. Roseman was using her mother's car, because Montego likes to ride with his head sticking out through the sunroof.

Hmmm ... just like Marmaduke.

Petey and Me

I remember the day I picked out Petey at the shelter in Little Rock, Ark. One thing was clear to me: I needed her and she needed me. She was so small that she almost fit in one hand.

Weeks later, I took her to the vet to be spayed. He declared her part terrier, part whippet and part Dalmatian. I declared her my furry companion.

We were inseparable. She slept in my bed - just as much or as little as I did. She walked me in the mornings and the evenings. She raced into the house and back down the hallway when I came home. She romped all over our favorite bark park. She ate with me - I had people food; she had Science Diet.

Eventually, she grew into a 45-pound watch dog who meant business with strangers, especially men. She would stand in a defensive posture, barking, at any man whom she deemed the least bit suspicious. The only guy she ever warmed up to was my future husband, who fed Petey when I was away on business. Petey and I called him "the food guy."

When Petey died years ago, a little of my heart died with her.

I suppose that sense of loss is indicative of the emotional connections we have with the pets who share our lives. It's also at the core of the celebration that is Delaware's Week for the Animals from April 19-27. I'm happy to shine an extra light on this week, and I encourage you to find an event or two that will be meaningful to you - and your favorite pet.

Look for all sorts of details about the week and what you can do be a part of it in a special bonus issue of Delaware Pets, arriving in pet stores, vets' offices and groomers' shops later this week.

Faith, the Amazing Two-Legged Dog

If you saw Sunday's News Journal, you might have read about Faith, the two-legged dog. What's even more amazing is to see her in action.

Seeking Wonderful Quote at Talleyville Vet Clinic

My friend Jean, who used to live in Wilmington with her partner Dan and her beagle Joe, is trying to track down a quote that was hanging in the Talleyville Vet Clinic. Dan even called the clinic, but no one there remembered it. Maybe someone else will. Here's what she e-mailed me:

"In the early part of the decade, Talleyville Vet Clinic had a wonderful quote in a frame in the waiting area. It posed a rhetorical question of what wonderful act we humans had committed in our history to have been blessed with the animals in return. That's all I recall of it. I have searched and searched and cannot find the quotation anywhere. Does anyone remember it?"

Post it here it you remember what it was, or e-mail me at jfredel@delawareonline.com.

Thanks!

A Real Peep Show

I got this in an e-mail from a friend and just loved it. What does it have to do with animals? Well, the Peeps are in bunny and chick shapes, for starters. And they sure are having fun, for another thing.

Just enjoy. My favorite details are the pasties on the one bunny and the tin dollar bills stuck in the G-strings.

Celebrate Your Pets With Us

Meet Brad and his dog Doozer. They are the perfect symbol for how so many people feel about pets and animals in their lives.

Delaware will celebrate it's first Week for the Animals from April 19-27, all coordinated by Patricia Haddock of Georgetown, who is the Mid-Atlantic Regional team leader for Best Friends Network, a national group which works to support the bonds between humans and creatures. During the week, a variety of animal-related events - from an adoption fair, to a walk at the beach, from lectures and workshops, to a party at the pound - are all meant to celebrate that special connection.

As part of the event, Delaware Pets wants to celebrate your connections to your pets and other animals. E-mail us photos of your favorite animal - from a pet dog, cat, snake, mouse or bird, to a cow or sheep on the farm, or even a backyard squirrel - to pets@delawareonline.com.

Include your name, the animal's name (if it has one) and a contact number in case we have any questions. We would love to have photos of you with your favorite pet or animal, so identify any humans in the photos, too.

We will include as many photos as possible in a special April issue of Delaware Pets and at www.delawareonline.com/pets.

For more information on the week, go to the week's Web site.

Celebrate Your Pet

Patricia Haddock took an idea - and with a lot of hard work and help from others who care about animals - is well on her way to making the first Delaware Week for the Animals a reality from April 19-27. That's Patricia in her Georgetown home with two of her dogs, Basil (left) and Jetty.

Patricia is the Mid-Atlantic Regional team leader for Best Friends Network, a national group which works to support the bonds between humans and creatures. During the week, a variety of animal-related events - from an adoption fair, to a walk at the beach, from lectures and workshops, to a party at the pound - are all meant to celebrate that special connection.

As part of the event, Delaware Pets wants to celebrate your connections to your pets and other animals. E-mail us photos of your favorite animal - from a pet dog, cat, snake, mouse or bird, to a cow or sheep on the farm, or even a backyard squirrel - to pets@delawareonline.com.

Include your name, the animal's name (if it has one) and a contact number in case we have any questions. We would love to have photos of you with your favorite pet or animal, so identify any humans in the photos, too. We'll include as many photos as possible in a special April issue of Delaware Pets and at www.delawareonline.com/pets.

For more information on the week, go to www.delawareanimalweek.org

'Marley's' Movie and More From John Grogan

Get your tissues ready. They're making a movie based on "Marley & Me."

It's one of my favorite books about dogs and relationships. Shoot, it's one of my favorite books. Period.

The movie, starring Owen Wilson and Jennifer Aniston, starts filming March 10. The plan is to get the story about the bad-behaving Lab and the people who loved him into theaters around Christmas.

In an interview with Delaware Pets, "Marley" author John Grogan said he thought he might have the grist for a book when he told his stories about "this totally over the top, bigger than life character" at cocktail parties and people thought they were hilarious. Grogan told writer Claire Bushey that what helped "Marley" sell more than 3 milion copies was something a little more complicated than funny stories about a bad-behaving dog.

"It's a love story about a couple and about their journey through life, growing up as a couple into responsible adults and parents."

And I loved Grogan's answer to the question about whether Marley really was the worst dog in the world.

"I always called him the worst dog with a little bit of a wink," he said. "The short answer is, I don't think Marley's anywhere near the worst dog. He may have been the most hyper dog in the world, but he had a good heart, and he gave us nothing but love and commitment through his whole life."

Napoleon Meets Obama

You absolutely never know where you might meet people with their pets.

I ran into Kristina Silvasy of Middletown, who brought along Napoleon, a 2-year-old Yorkie, at the Barack Obama rally in downtown Wilmington.

"Everybody needs support, even from little animals," she joked about why Napoleon tagged along.

Silvasy was there with her husband and 15-year-old son, who were away finding coffee at a Dunkin' Donuts.

"We were coming to see what [Obama] had to say," she said. Sbe brought Napoleon along on the sunny Sunday afternoon for socialization.

Where have you taken your dogs or other pets for socialization?

A Wilmington Video

This really doesn't have anything to do with pets, but I loved this video - and thought you would, too.

The sites start at about 1:15 in, so stay with it. Love that Todd - he's got potential.

Fluffy Is Back Home

Fluffy, the 7-year-old beautiful cat of a friend of mine, is back home. He literally had been holed up under their neighbor's shed, and she and her family tried everything to coax him out. Among their techniques first, to find, and, later, to recover their beloved Fluff:

* Called local shelters to see if they had a cat matching his description.
* Posted fliers around the neighborhood and took out an ad in The News Journal.
* Bought a Havahart humane trap, which was baited with a trail of sardines and catnip, and they used a pillowcase inside to lure him with the smell. They even had a glowstick loaded on the top so they could see if it had been activated.
* Put another cat, Frisk, in a harness and took him out to the shed to try to draw him out.
* Used their video camera, which has a night-vision feature, to see their back yard in the dark.

You get the idea that these people really love Fluff, don't you?

Finally, the humane trap worked, and Fluff was brought back inside their house, where he promptly hid under the bed. Since then, he has reacclimated and has been checked by a vet. A warm ear was nothing and blood work will check for any liver abnormalities because of dehydration. All of which pales in comparison to these thoughts from my friend:

"He spent the night on my pillow, waking me up all night for rubs and kisses which I was happy to dispense."

Fluff is lucky, indeed.

Fluffy the Gray Cat Missing Near Brennan Estates

The cat of a friend of mine is missing. She offers these details:

"Our cat Fluffy is missing. He got out of the house on Friday 1/25/08. He should be around the Clear Creek/Brennan Estates area in Bear off Rt 896. He is a fluffy gray cat, maybe 12 lbs, 7 yo with Fluffy gray fur and a bushy tail. He is timid and would run if chased. ... We are offering a reward for his return."

If you have seen any cat in this area that meets this description, e-mail me at pets@delawareonline.com, and I'll forward the info to her.

Thanks for being the eyes for someone who is so worried.

Another Victim of the Subprime Mortgage Crisis

A fellow editor sent me this news nugget about one of the unintended consequences of the subprime mortgage crisis. It breaks my heart that so many people are losing their homes - and having to give up their pets as well.

"Forget about the lost furnishings and finances, the most pitiful victims of the subprime mortgage crisis rocking the United States are the family pets. Shelters across the country have seen sharp upticks inthe number of people giving up their pets in recent months because they have been forced out of their homes. And - more tragically - neighbors, police and foreclosure agents are finding increasing numbers of pets left to fend for themselves in abandoned homes."

If someone you know finds themselves in this position, please counsel them that the responsible thing to do is to take their pet to a shelter or a rescue group.

Delaware's Top Dogs in 2007

Delaware's top dog in 2007? Make it a retriever, a Labrador retriever. That's Karen and Pete Potocki, of Bear, with their dogs Duke, a Lab, and Lucky, a terrier mix in May at Glasgow Park in a photo taken by Matthew Jonas.

Each year, the American Kennel Club comes out with the top dog breeds for the country, and also by state and city. I thought Delaware's top spot would go to a retriever, but thought it would be the golden, not the Lab.

Anything on the list surprise you? Delawareans love their pugs (a personal fave) and Pomeranians more than they do in the rest of the country. America as a whole has a bigger thing for shih tzu and bulldogs (first time on the top 10 for this great looking dog) than we do here.

If you have a dog on the Delaware list, e-mail a photo to me at pets@delawareonline.com and I'll post it here or in a photo gallery. Include your name and which city you live in and the dog's name.

DELAWARE'S TOP 10
1. Retrievers (Labrador)
2. Beagles
3. Retrievers (golden)
4. German shepherds
5. Boxers
6. Poodles
7. Yorkshire terriers
8. Pugs
9. Pomeranians
10. Dachshunds

U.S. TOP 10
1. Retrievers (Labrador)
2. Yorkshire terriers
3. German shepherds
4. Retrievers (golden)
5. Beagles
6. Boxers
7. Dachshunds
8. Poodles
9. Shih tzu
10. Bulldogs

What Is It about Dogs and Wine?

I posted recently about the Dog Lovers Wine Club, a boutique winery in California that puts real dogs on the labels and shares the proceeds with animal groups. The downside: Residents of Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey - 26 other states - can't be members. You have to live in a state in which it's legal to receive wine shipments. So find someone in New York or Ohio or Wisconsin who will accept orders for you.

For the rest of us without connections, we have options:

I loved Jim Jim's shiraz ($10.99 and found at Cochran Liquors in Middletown), with a great dog illustration on the label and the screw top. This might be a very good weekend to indulge with a glass or two.

Readers mentioned that Jim Jim also makes a chardonnay and a merlot, and that Red Bicyclette has a little white dog chasing a baguette-carrying man on a red bike.

A reporter from Newsday on Long Island says at a kennel-club holiday party that he/she attended last month, the most-coveted grab-bag gift was a doggie-decorated bottle of Australian chardonnay called Jealous Bitch. Has anyone seen this one locally?

If you need a decanter, check out the selection at Whiskazz and Pawzz in Hockessin. Very cute.

And if wine isn't your thing, one reader reported that Spanish Peaks Brewing Co. makes Black Dog ales that come with "the cutest black paw prints on the bottle caps." The black Lab on the label is Chug, the dog of the company's founder. The company's Web site says it is distributed in Delaware. Where has anyone seen it?

Any other wines or beers with a dog (or cat) theme that you'd recommend?

The Miracle of Pet Oxygen Masks

If you think pet oxygen masks are some unnecessary frill, tell that to the family of this cat who was saved during a fire in Smyrna.

Pets are members of the family. It's that simple. And some concerned animal lovers are doing everything they can to supply Delaware's first responders with equipment to help save pets.

Cheryl Costello of the Wilmington Kennel Club, who has been so instrumental in equipping New Castle County fire companies, sent me a note about this recent save:

"Just wanted you to know that there was another save/assist where an animal mask was used here in Delaware - really is wonderful."

Wonderful doesn't begin to describe it.

Cheryl also let me know that the Ladies' Auxiliary of the Delaware Firefighters placed an order for another 40 sets of pet oxygen masks - small, medium and large - as that group tries to get a set on each firetruck, ambulance or emergency vehicle through its Adopt-a-Truck program.

If you're interested in adopting a station or company, or firetruck or emergency vehicle, call Phyllis Roby at 945-6634 or e-mail her at saveourpets@yahoo.com

Photo of the Day

If this doesn't make your day, nothing will.

Meet Miso (he's the pug) and Arman (his little companion), both 3 years old, in this great photo taken by News Journal photographer Bob Herbert. They won Best in Show and Best Lookalike - they both wore stripes - at the Hometown Pet Show on Tuesday in Bethany Beach. Arman is the son of Jen and Larry Lee of Wilmington.

Congratulations to all.

Puppy and the Mirror

This reminds me of that old "I Love Lucy" bit with Harpo Marx. This puppy is amazing with how he/she sticks with it. And love the ending.

How are your dogs or cats around mirrors?

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!