Another take on treadmills

To counter the previous posting, watch this video.

Walk it off

Nothing that I could write would be funnier than this video.

It's a cat on a treadmill.

Winter trials and tribulations

Last winter we had maybe two days when it snowed. Thinking back, I'm not remembering it being that big a deal.

Not for me, mind you. I have boots.

I only care when it affects Kate.

When you are dependent on the outside for your bathroom facilities, any impediment must be taken seriously.

This month's snow — and then ice — left some impressive piles of the white stuff here in the City of Poughkeepsie. Granted, a walk down the street this morning revealed even more grass showing than even 24 hours ago — here at the end of December.

Several hard rains and temps well above freezing have decimated the snow, leaving Kate plenty of choice when it comes to doing her bidness. But when the snow first arrived, and the snow shovelers finally did their jobs, there was precious little space for a dog who usually requires grass to complete the task.

And then the freezing rain came, leaving a glassy surface over the mounds of snow. That was an obstacle that could not be overcome. The picture above, taken this morning, showed that Kate could indeed still stand on the snow, but only for a second. Soon after the picture was snapped, two of her paws fell through.

Now we are back to lots of prime real estate for Kate to choose from. For now, no searching for the first available spot. I am certain that eventually the clouds will gather, the weather forecasters will fret and the snows will come. And Kate will be frustrated (I'm projecting again).

And to the person who couldn't be bothered to pick up after your dog when it went on the sidewalk, I hope your New Year is filled with ruined shoes.

Scream therapy?

Maybe this pug is excited about the possibility of a dog park coming to the Town of Wappinger.

Or maybe it is just a very strange pooch.

Thanks, Kathy, for the tip.

Ready for adoption

Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Fuzzmom — Tiger
"A promise to love forever shouldn't end because someone moves away. Especially for a 10-year-old cat who has known no other family. Cats are creatures of habit and experience distress and depression when abandoned by their owners. Fortunately, they do adapt, and we expect that this older white-and-gray tiger female will rebound nicely if someone is willing to take her into their home."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722). Browse our adoptable animals today!

Shelter pets rule.

Merry Christmas, pet lovers

Here's my absolute favorite Christmas song.

It's Darlene Love singing "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" on The Late Show with David Letterman.

Have a wonderful holiday.

Merry Christmas Eve

I haven't been posting much lately. Been trying to take some time off. I know, how selfish.

Anyway, it's Christmas Eve, and I wanted to share something with you.

It's a version of "White Christmas" sung by Clyde McPhatter and the Drifters, with an excellent animation.

No, there's nothing pet-related in this post ... except for the fact that the animation makes me smile, and Kate makes me smile.

Enjoy.

Ready for adoption

Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Kelly — Chow mix
"Chow — Wow! Handsome older male Chow proves the theory that you get better with age. A mellow personality and a realization that good things come to those who wait, Kelly is just biding his time — a new home is just around the next corner."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722). Browse our adoptable animals today!

Shelter pets rule.

Welcome, or not?

Is your dog automatically welcome at your friends' and acquaintances' homes? Do you wait for an invite, or do you just bring Fido along?

A New York Times article takes a look at the sometimes thorny problem of what to do with the pooch when you have to go to a party or visit for extended periods of time.

I only bring Kate when the invitation has been offered. I don't fish around for it either.

When I was living in Shekomeko, I would be invited to dinners where I was told to bring Kate with me. Most if not all of the people were dog owners or dog lovers.

However, I stopped letting her come along after one dinner party where one of the guests insisted on feeding Kate from her plate. I asked her not to — after all, I was the one who would have to deal with the stomach problems, or worse. She refused, so I never brought Kate to another large party again.

Don't worry: Kate's social calendar is just fine.

Requiescat In Pace

Pacino 1997-2007

Pacino, the Italian Greyhound who was my friend Bill Szarka's companion for almost 11 years, died today.

He was ill for the last few weeks and took a turn for the worst during the last couple of days.

The kind of love and the care Bill provided for Pacino truly shows the depth of his humanity.

Pacino was Bill's first dog and will certainly be missed.

In addition to Bill, Pacino is survived by DeNiro and Brando, also Italian Greyhounds.

Ready for adoption

Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — a day early. Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Simon — Orange Tabby
"There's something very special about Simon. It's not just his great personality or even his greater looks, but it's something that is almost tangible yet not quite visible. Simon was rescued by our humane law team, so maybe it's his gratitude showing through. Simon is also FIV positive, so maybe he's happy he's getting a chance at a longer life."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722). Browse our adoptable animals today!

Shelter pets rule.

Another dog park possible in Dutchess County

Good news for the Town of Wappinger.

Councilman Vincent Bettina has proposed establishing a dog park in Castle Point Park. The town board recently passed a resolution that would enable the town planner to study the feasibility of a park there.

“There is a nice fenced in area that wouldn’t require much modification,” Bettina said. “It would be good to have a place where people can go and enjoy being with their pets.”

This would be the second park in Dutchess County, the first being in the Town of Fishkill.

LaGrange town officials are open to the idea of a dog park operating on town land adjoining the highway garage on Stringham Road, but they want to see if there is enough community support first.

The town is willing to fund most of the construction through the recreation fees, but want to $16,000 from residents toward the estimated cost of the fence.

The dog park in Fishkill is paid for completely by the town, though Supervisor Joan Pagones said a fee for non-residents is being considered.

I say, keep 'em coming. Hey, City of Poughkeepsie, are you listening?

It's Santa time

Holiday spirit

I know what I've said in the past (here and here), but I honestly thought Kate would never sit for this kind of stunt.

What's scary is how much the antlers match her coloring.

Christmas poll

Come on, fess up.

How much do you really spend on your pets this time of year? All the new squeaky toys. All the fuzzy catnip-filled mice. The treats.

Cast your vote in the poll on the left side of this page. And leave a comment telling everyone what kind of things you do buy.

The range is on a scale of $0 (Scrooges!) to Sky's the Limit a la Leona's Trouble.

Is your cat prepared?

Keeping your cat healthy and prepared for an emergency just became a little easier.

The American Red Cross just released a 100-page manual of instructions on everything from checking your cat's temperature to making a safety plan in case of a disaster. The manual not only gives step-by-step instructions on almost 70 health topics, but also includes a DVD that has demonstrations on performing many of the first-aid steps described in the book.

The $16.95 book is available through the Red Cross Store.

Don't worry dog lovers. There is a "Dog First Aid" book, too.

The American Red Cross of Dutchess County can be reached by going here.

Ready for adoption

Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — a day early. Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Icey — American Eskimo
"This adorable American Eskimo female may be named Icey, but she'll be sure to keep your lap warm this winter. She's 4 years old, loves TLC and cuddles and would be best suited for a quiet home without other animals and small children."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722). Browse our adoptable animals today!

Shelter pets rule.

Happy, but safe, holidays for pets

This time of year, with all the festivities and decorations, it is important to keep in mind how pets figure into all of this.

Safety is utmost, especially with tinsel, ornaments and lights — not to mention food and treats that are fine for humans but bad for pets.

Martha Stewart's Marc Marrone has some suggestions, as does the Humane Society of the United States.

A couple of hints from the Humane Society:

* Decorations such as tinsel, glass ornaments and garlands can easily attract pets, but are dangerous choking hazards. Electric decorations such as stringed lights can give your pets a shock should they chew on the wires. Keep decorations out of their reach.

* The unusual commotion of the holiday season can be stressful on animals as well as humans. Put your pets in a quiet room or quiet area of the house when guests are visiting.

* Certain plants such as Mistletoe berries, and the leaves, stem and flowers of the Poinsettia can be dangerous to pets. Be sure to keep these plants well out of the reach of animals in your home, or consider using artificial versions.

Photo by Karl Rabe/Poughkeepsie Journal file

Goodbye, Earl

My favorite comic strip, which I read on washingtonpost.com, is Mutts by Patrick McDonnell. It is at times poignant, clever, thought-provoking and amusing.

It stars Earl and Mooch, a dog and cat, respectively, whose owners are doting and loving, as well as loved by Earl and Mooch.

Well, sad news tonight that the real-life Earl has died. He was Patrick's companion for more than 18 years. He is survived by Patrick and his wife, Karen, their cat MeeMow, and the entire Mutts family.

At times like these, I give Kate an extra kiss and hug.

This tops it all

Looking for that special gift for your cat?

Try Kitty Wigs.

I can't even get Kate to wear a Christmas ribbon around her neck.

Peanut butter is sticky

Wild Oats is a lucky feline and a real survivor. The Tennessee feral cat got its head stuck in a peanut butter jar and ended up wearing it for 19 days.

Here's the story from the Associated Press.

A veterinarian said the cat probably lived off its excess fat.

Holiday pix for pets

Today at the Petco in Poughkeepsie you can get your pet's picture taken with Santa. All proceeds go to benefit the Dutchess County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Pictures will be taken from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The store is located at 1933 South Road. Here's directions.

Bring it up again

From the people at PETA, a practical, yet stylist way to avoid, well, cat urpings.

It's a sign in both English and Spanish that alerts you to a hazardous situation — until you've had the time to clean it up.

Truly a Christmas gift for the person who has everything.

Ready for adoption

Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — a day early. Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Mr. Sir — Domestic shorthair
"It's all in the cattitude. Year and a half old all-black shorthair male demands it's all about ME! Pet ME, play with ME, love ME. Multi-toed and multi-talented, this handsome short hair has an air of distinction that makes him seem entitled. Who are we to argue?"

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722). Browse our adoptable animals today!

Shelter pets rule.

Take your medicine

And we do realize that this is a joke, right?

Third time might not be the charm

Baby is a lucky cat who needs a new owner.

She survived two — count 'em, two — falls out a third-story window. The critter has been dubbed the "bionic cat" by its vets because its legs have been rebuilt with pins.

Her owner, Sue (no last name given), has finally decided that some sort of window treatment should be installed before it happens again.

"She never goes out, except for when she fell off the window. She is always on the window."

Well, duh.

Open window + cat = tragedy waiting to happen.

Do you have any children, Sue?

'Tis the season

Does your pet get everything it wants for Christmas?

Perhaps you need to go directly to the man.

A mall in Zanesville, Ohio, had its annual Pets Photos with Santa the other day and the Journal's sister paper, the Zanesville Times Recorder did a story on it.

So, do you put up a stocking for your pet? Do you give your pet wrapped gifts?

Let me know.

Photo by Trevor Jones/Times Recorder

Happy Thanksgiving

Here's a little treat from the Washington Post and its "On Being" video series.

Enjoy the holiday.

Ready for adoption — one day early

Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week — a day early. Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Jo Jo — Golden retriever/Aussie
"When your normal cup of Joe isn't enough, how about a double with a twist? This male golden retriever/Aussie mix has all the caffeine energy of an espresso, cappuccino and an iced coffee, combined with a great personality. Think Disney's Goofy with a graduate degree."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722).

Shelter pets rule.

Traveling with Fido or Fluffy?

New Dutchess County reporter Jenny Lee has an article in today's Poughkeepsie Journal on traveling during the Thanksgiving weekend.

Along with it are tips for traveling with your pets.

The information, from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, includes such suggestions as keeping your pets safe and secure in a well-ventilated crate or carrier, never leaving your animal alone in a parked vehicle and making sure your pet wears a collar with an ID tag imprinted with your home address, as well as a temporary travel tag with your cell phone, destination phone number and any other relevant contact information.

There is one hint that is a "pet" peeve of mine. Please don't let your pet ride with its head outside the window. This, according to the ASPCA, can subject it to inner ear damage and lung infections. And it could be injured by flying objects.

That said, have a great holiday.

Where does Goliath sleep?

Anywhere he wants to!

This is a big kittie.

Take a look.

A reader e-mail

Daniel from Kingston, N.Y., wrote me an e-mail in response to the recent blog about the Dutchess County SPCA rescues.

As the owner of a rescued pitbull (Comet) I often find myself reading through blogs and rescue sites just to find stories of cruelty. I don't enjoy the sickened anger I feel when I read them, but I feel that it is my duty to keep myself aware of what animals go through at the hands of ignorant and cruel people.

My little girl wasn't abused, but she was neglected and allowed to fall at least 15 lbs underweight. A pitbull rescue based in Carmel heard of her and set her free. She got lucky, and now she has it really, really good. I wouldn't have it any other way!

My pitbull prefers to sleep under my blankets with me on these chilly nights! Like any dog, she loves to eat peanut butter off my finger. How's that for vicious?!?

Here's a picture of Comet (click on her to embiggen).


Thanks, Daniel. Comet is obviously in very good hands.

Carry on, all you hunters

It's deer hunting season here in New York.

And for the first time in I don't know how long — now that I live in the City of Poughkeepsie — I can go outside with Kate for her necessities, and she doesn't immediately turn tail and run back inside when there is the sound of a shotgun.

Heck, it's a relief for me too, not having to wear orange. A totally unflattering color.

Quick story.

A friend of mine was weekending up in Shekomeko and was a jogger. She asked a couple of locals if she would be OK running during hunting season while wearing an electric lime green top.

Absolutely not, the locals said. You must wear hunter's orange.

The electric lime green top was color that, under no circumstances, did not exist in nature.

The concept that a hunter would not recognize that fact and blast away was hilarious to me.

My friend, however, chose to wear orange.

DCSPCA handles cruelty cases

Over the last week or so, the Dutchess County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Hyde Park, N.Y., saved the lives of several animals.

DCSPCA Humane Law Enforcement Officers Jami Landry and Stephanie Fitzpatrick rescued six cats from a storage unit in the Town of Dover Nov. 7. The cats had allegedly been in the space for three days without food or water.

The owner of a neighboring unit notified the agency about the animals. The owner of the storage unit where the cats were found was charged with 18 misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty.

Below are two of the rescued kittens. All the cats will be available for adoption once their medical care has been completed.


On Nov. 9, Landry and Fitzpatrick responded to a report of a dead dog tied to a stake in a City of Poughkeepsie yard. There were heavy chains attached to the dog's collar. The dog likely died of starvation and exposure to extreme weather conditions.

The officers removed two emaciated pitbulls from the premises. They allegedly had multiple injuries and open wounds. The owner of the dogs was arrested and charged with four misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty.

The dogs will remain at the shelter while they recover from their injuries.

Below is Animal Services Staff Member Manny Gronenthal, comforting one of the rescued dogs.

Ready for adoption

Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week. Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Josh — Tuxedo cat
"If you are going to be a stray, why not pick a mansion to be your turf? This young adult male tuxedo was found wandering the grounds of Vanderbilt Mansion, and while his current digs are not as deluxe, he knows it won't be too long before he is king of someone else's castle."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722).

Shelter pets rule.

Cat vs. toilet paper

Maybe a scratching post would be appropriate for this cat.

Take a look here.

The party's over

The indignity I suffer.

I give and give and what do I get in return?

Barely a thought. Not even a consideration.

What is all this about, you ask?

I had an early — for me, at least — press conference to attend this morning across the county in Dover Plains. I managed to get back to Poughkeepsie around 12:30 p.m., just the right time to walk Kate again.

I returned home on the early side — about 5 p.m. — because I had an evening meeting to attend. And then, after the meeting was over, I returned home shortly before 9 p.m.

What ties all this coming and going together? What is the connection?

Each time I entered my condo, Kate never bothered to get off the couch.

Sigh.

I guess after 12 years she is taking me even more for granted than she usually does.

You're in good paws ...

Now here's a good idea.

The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies has added pet injury coverage to policies with collision coverage — at no additional cost.

It will pay up to $500 if a customer's dog or cat is hurt or dies in a car accident.

While it is not yet available in North Carolina, Virginia, New Hampshire — and New York! — the pet injury insurance is available in the other 46 states and the District of Columbia.

Is Timmy down the well?

Anybody care to count how many times the dog barks during this video?

I sure wouldn't want to be their neighbors.

Cute couple

Here's a boxer and a cat that get along famously.

Cat doles it out and boxer takes it on the chin.

See the video here.

Ready for adoption

Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week. Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Shadow — Lab mix
"This young lab mix just loves to ham it up for the camera (in typical lab fashion!). He'll ham it up for you, too, if you stop by for a visit. Hurry though, this guy won't stick around for long."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722).

Shelter pets rule.

Good morning!

Does your cat wake you up — like this?

Truth hurts

I just found out that I need to go away during an upcoming weekend. Travel always presents a problem, because Kate can't go with me.

I have to find a kennel or someone who will take care of her. Such is my lot in life.

On a recent vacation, a friend who shall remain nameless, was gracious enough to stay at my place while I was gone and take care of the pooch. Upon my return, both Kate and my friend seemed none the worse for wear. That was great.

So, when faced with the prospect of taking another brief jaunt away from the homestead and man's best friend, I turned once again to my nameless friend.

The weekend is somewhat problematic because it involves a major holiday, but my friend said that there would be nothing that would prevent her from keeping Kate fed and walked.

I agreed, saying that should my friend need to, shall we way, stretch the schedule to allow for more time to revel in the holiday, that Kate would manage quite well, thank you.

Kate is, shall we say, low maintenance.

My anonymous pal concurred, saying, "With Kate, it's like taking care of a plant."

Well.

Needless to say, when I told Kate about the conversation, she stared blankly at me.


I could tell the characterization cut her to the quick.

Does a plant come to the door to greet you after a long day's toiling?

No.

OK, and sometimes neither does Kate.

Does a plant crawl up on the bed and keep you warm at night?

No.

Well, lately Kate's been jumping off the bed in the middle of the night and going to sleep on her pallet. I just assumed I've been taking up too much room.

Does a plant sit directly in front of the television and stare at you?

No.

Obviously I've been ignoring Kate.

The comparison of my beloved doggie to a plant is vile and undeserved.

Nameless friend, you'll get no T-shirt from the big city of Cleveland.

But please remember to give her 1 cup of dry food with a little moist food twice a day and don't forget the two pills every morning. They are chewable.

In Texas, it would be 'a dog thang'

While I'm not a fan of Pedigree dog food — and neither is Kate — this commercial says it all.

A stupid pet trick

Last night on Late Show with David Lettermen, there was a dog who barked when someone gave it the one-finger salute, a cockatoo who danced to the Backstreet Boys (who doesn't?) and a pit bull named Pacy who played the drums.

Here's a link to the Late Show video site where you can see the Buddy Rich of the canine world.

Ready for adoption

Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week. Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Neeto — Tuxedo
"Dressed for success, but too shy to leave the house, this 2-year-old male Tux is hoping the society life comes to him. If your house is set for partying, or even just playing, let Neeto in the door — he'll add so much more."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722).

Shelter pets rule.

Keep your pets safe today

It's the creepiest day of the year: Halloween.

So remember, when you are having ghouls and goblins come to your house, to keep your pets safe and secure.

Here's a link to a previous blog entry with some hints.

Boo.

Battle of the cute guinea pigs

Three guinea pigs duke it out over a piece of cucumber.

Live the experience here.

How many lives was that?

A cat survived being trapped in the engine of a car as well as being dropped onto the freeway.

Maybe "Lucky" would be an appropriate name.

Baby v. dog

Baby opens drawer. Dog closes drawer.

Hilarity ensues.

See the video by clicking here.

Cute Halloween costumes

The Washington Post has a slide show of reader-submitted pet Halloween costumes.

Besides your basic dogs and cats, there is even a ferret and a horse.

I would hate to think of the trick that horse might do if you didn't provide the treat.

Konversing Kitties

It's not that I'm paranoid, you understand.

I know they are talking about me.

See for yourself.

Ready for adoption

Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week. Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Canela — Terrier mix
"Fawn-colored body. Black muzzle. Looks like this female terrier mix stuck her nose in someplace it shouldn't have been. The right place to stick her nose in would be around the playground, as this young girl has plenty of energy and loves to walk, fetch, play ... "

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722).

Shelter pets rule.

A kitten's tail to tell

Nothing says cute like a kitten video first thing in the morning.

Enjoy.

Happy b-day, Carson

Talk-show great Johnny Carson was born on this date in 1925.

He was never funnier than when he had animals on his program.

Here's a clip with Joan Embry and a couple of orangutans.

Shopping gone to the dogs

And that's a good thing.

A new shopping mall Clinton Township, Mich., north of Detroit, welcomes dogs and even provides cleanup bags and water stations.

According to the freep.com Web site (that's the Detroit Free Press), the Mall at Partridge Creek, an open-air shopping center, allows dogs and their owners on the premises.

Shop 'till you drop? Only if you pick it up!

Out of 90 stores, 28 allow dogs inside, including Apple, Eddie Bauer, Lenscrafters, Samsonite and Sur La Table.

That's great. Not only could I buy Kate an iPod, a winter coat, a pair of glasses (or contacts) and some luggage, I could get her a complete set of dinnerware.

Hey, Poughkeepsie Galleria, are you listening?

Can't we all get along?

Here's a video of a dog and a cat tussling.

Each gives as good as the other.

It's probably a good thing that they are the same size.

Keeping pets safe during Halloween

While all the humans are having fun on Halloween, make sure that the critters in your lives are safe.

The American Kennel Club eNewsletter has a few suggestions about the holiday, in particular if you dress up your pets.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals also has some tips about Halloween safety for your pets.

Some hints:

Chocolate and sweets are no-nos, as we all know. But it is suggested that the dog is walked early, while it is still light. In the dark, your dog might find candy and other goodies on the street or ground.

Make sure pets are safe and secure in a room where it can't get out the door when trick or treaters stop by.

Don't leave your pets unattended outside Halloween night, even behind a fence.

Make sure your dog or cat has proper identification.

Ellen update from Fox Noise*

The attorney for Mutts and Moms, the adoption agency that took Iggy back from Ellen DeGeneres's hairdresser, said on the O'Reilly Factor Thursday that the hairdresser and her family were offered the opportunity to formally apply to keep the dog but refused to do so.

Attorney Keith Fink: "We did offer this family the ability to come in and file adoption papers. But Ellen DeGeneres wants it Ellen DeGeneres' way. She refused, and the family refused to come in and fill out the adoption papers."

This story just keeps getting better and better.

I hope the dog is OK and is happy with his new family.

* Shout-out to Keith Olbermann!

Weird story of the day

From the St. Petersburg Times, here's a story about a man who stole a puppy by putting it down his pants.

I've heard of ants in your pants, but puppies?

The dog's dinner?

Here's a Speed Bump comic panel by Dave Coverly.

Enjoy.

Ready for adoption

Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week. Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Carmen — Domestic short hair
"She's the queen of our free-range cat room, but this very friendly female short hair would rather reign over your living room — from a nice window seat perhaps? Carmen is waiting for you to pay her a visit today!"

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722).

Shelter pets rule.

Down memory lane with Ellen

I thought my memory was right about this not being Ellen's first time giving back a dog.

The New York Times reported back in 2003 that DeGeneres had to find a new home for a mixed breed puppy she had because of her cats.

"If there has been any discord in Ms. DeGeneres's life recently, it has been the way her two cats reacted to Lucy, her mixed-breed puppy. They were 'not thrilled with having dog energy' around the house, she said, 'especially puppy energy.' So she had to find Lucy a new home."

She had the dog on the show when she first got it and had a contest to name the pooch.

I think Ellen needs to seriously consider not getting another dog.

Iggy pop culture war?

Poor Ellen. She gave away a dog and can't understand why that was a bad thing.

Here is what others are saying about it:

Los Angeles Times

E Online

Washington Post

Emil Steiner, the Post blogger, asks the question if he is the only person in America who wasn't moved by DeGeneres's on-air sobbing about the dog.

Add me to the list, Emil.

DeGeneres calls the agreement to give the dog back to the adoption agency a technicality. I remember when I got Kate from the shelter in Manhattan back in the stone age that I had to sign a similar agreement.

She could have handled it much differently. If she had called the agency and told them that she had lined up a suitable family for the dog, then the agency could have checked them out.

And someone with her resources couldn't have set aside an area of her home where the dog wouldn't bother the cats? Just wondering, that's all.

Who's a pretty girl?

I was going through some files and ran across old pictures of Kate.

In this one, she must have been around 2 or 3 because we were still living in Manhattan.

Such a look she's giving me.

'Cuz you can never have enough Kate.

Ellen's 'good deed' comes back to bite her

She may play cards with a dog in her American Express ads, but Ellen DeGeneres couldn't handle what was dealt her and gave away one of her pets.

According to this Associated Press story, Iggy, a Brussels Griffon mix, was adopted by DeGeneres and her partner Portia de Rossi in September from Mutts and Moms dog rescue.

The poor pooch didn't get along with the couple's cats, so DeGeneres gave Iggy to her hairdresser.

M&M found out about the trade off and reclaimed the dog. They apparently have a policy where if someone can't keep the dog it has to be returned to the agency.

The talk show host has pleaded on air that the hairdresser's kids desperately want the dog back. (Expect a commercial before the video plays.)

Let's see if DeGeneres can dance her way out of this one.

Cheeky monkey

And a dog that doesn't pay attention.

Here's the video.

Enjoy.

Won't you come home bichon Bailey?

Bailey's getting pampered now.

Free grooming, lots of food, lots of sleep.

All it took for the 10-year-old bichon frise was a 7-mile trek home after getting lost.

Here's the story from the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

Cutie Petutie dog salon?

Is Rosie O'Donnell the owner?

Cat furniture

Looking for more comfortable surroundings for your cat?

Check out The New York Times.

I love the cat cocoon.

Ready for adoption

Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week. Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Archie — Jack Russell Terrier
"Jughead and the rest of the gang aren't around, but that's OK as Archie will keep you in stitches all by himself. Very active (as if they come any other way!), this Jack Russell male prefers to be your one and only. Not that he's trying to be selfish with your time, he just doesn't want any competition."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722).

Shelter pets rule.

Paws in the pumpkin patch

How about a Halloween party for you and your pooch?

Positive Paws Training School is presenting a Doggie Halloween Party Tuesday, Oct. 16, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the American Legion Post No. 1466 in the Town of Poughkeepsie. For directions, click here.

There will be a costume contest, fun and games and for $12 you can get a picture of your dog in the pumpkin patch.

Your dog needs to be on a leash that is no longer than 6 feet, and the Positive Paws people ask that aggressive dogs be left at home. Well, that makes sense.

Call 845-635-8977.

Photo by Karl Rabe.

Teeny tiny doggies

Teacup Chihuahuas.

Who would have thought that these cute, little dogs are the same species as a Great Dane.

It takes a village, or at least a golden retriever

An orphaned kitten who would not use a bottle is being nursed by a golden retriever, according to this Winchester (Va.) Star article.

Honey, the golden who hasn't whelped in 18 months, is indeed a honey.

And Precious, the kitten, is ... well, you figure it out.

Blessing the blessed

Take a look at my colleague Rasheed Oluwa's story in today's Poughkeepsie Journal on the blessing of the animals Sunday at the Hyde Park (N.Y.) United Methodist Church.

The second-annual ceremony marked the Oct. 4, 1226, death of St. Francis of Assisi, animals' patron saint.

Check out the photo gallery by Journal photographer Darryl Battista while you are there.

Kate would have been there but I was too busy sleeping she had other plans.

Toy story

Kate has more toys than she knows what to do with.

And yet, I keep buying more.

The picture above is one of the silliest-looking toys Kate has. It's a Fat Cat Crackler. Embiggen for the full effect.

Kate still has a couple of the Crackler skunks only one of which still makes a squeaky sound.


They are supposedly indestructible, though I've been told by people that their dogs have torn through them.

Kate has more toys than she knows what to do with.

And yet, I keep buying more.

What are your pets' favorite toys? Least favorite toys?

Ready for adoption

Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week. Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Nacho — Pastel Calico
"Hey — that's Nacho kitty! But it could be with just a simple adoption. Beautiful pastel calico female was abondoned at the shelter, hopefully with the intention of finding a better home for her."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722).

Shelter pets rule.

Tuesday morning cat dancing

This video made me laugh out loud.

Enjoy.

Extreme closeup of a cat yawning

The title says it all.

Click here.

Aren't the interwebs great?

Again, a plea for dignity

Early last week — yes, last week — I took Kate out in the evening to do her thing and I heard a strange rumbling sound, almost like a muffled radio transmission.

Then at the end of it I heard "Happy Halloween!" followed by demonic laughter.

October's going to be a looooooooong month.

My neighbors, in addition to a skeleton on their front porch, have put some sort of motion-activated device that plays spooky sounds. And it seems to be able to detect motion from across the street.

So far, every evening, Kate and I have been greeted by the sounds of the season — well ahead of the season.

Speaking of Halloween, take a look at this picture.

Do you do this to your pets?


They don't call it a dog's life for nothing. Please, people, give your dog a break and no costumes this year.

But if you must, take pictures and send them in to me. I'll post them for all to see.

(Photo of Mocha by Kathy McLaughlin/Poughkeepsie Journal)

Give a dog a command

Here's a cute Web site, sponsored by a heartworm medication manufacturer, where you can type what you want a little pooch to do.

Don't try asking the pup to do algebra or anything dirty. He's apparently much too smart for that.

Oh, and you might want to turn the volume down a bit.

Ready for adoption

Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week. Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Winston — Terrier mix
"Winston, a male terrier mix, is one of our special-needs animals who is hearing impaired and has been trained in signing. This guy is full of life and loves to play ball and take walks. As an added bonus, you get the Winston support network, volunteers who will work with you one-on-one to understand his training. He is in need of a special family who is willing to be patient with him and help him become the great companion he is destined to be."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722).

Shelter pets rule.

My pet goat — not that version

The free-thinking, heavily caffeinated city of Seattle now allows miniature goats to be kept as pets.

The story from the Seattle Times gives more details.

The minigoats weigh between 50 and 100 pounds. Previously, they were classified as farm animals.

I would expect to see many more nicely manicured lawns in the Emerald City.

Monday morning rant

I was doing some running around the other day — Kate was home sleeping — and pulled into a parking lot off of Route 9.

A woman in a black car pulled into the same lot just before I did. As I walked to one of the stores, I saw her fiddling with her security and eventually heard the beep.

I was in the store about 10-12 minutes and the woman came out of the store just after I did.

As I was walking back to my car, I noticed that there was a huge golden retriever in the back seat of the woman's car. It was panting furiously.

And no wonder — it was about 75 degrees. There was not a cloud in the sky or a tree or shaded area in the parking lot.

The window was opened about 2 or 3 inches.

Had the woman not come out of the store when she did I would have called the police. I know that when I got back in my car it was pretty toasty.

I have a suggestion for that woman:

Put on a fur coat, get in your car and sit in it for 10-15 minutes in the baking sun.

If you can't take your dog into the store with you, don't take your dog shopping.

That is all there is to it.

Another Sunday feel-good story

A formerly homeless Chicago man who panhandles on the streets was reunited Saturday with his pooch.

Officials at the Anti-Cruelty Society of Chicago believe the dog may have been taken from the man by a person who felt he couldn't adequately care for it.

I would hope the person's heart was in the right place, but the man was devastated by the loss of his beloved dog. And the community pitched in to help him get it back.

Here's the story from the Chicago Tribune.

There's no place like Wisconsin

Her mobile home was destroyed in June and her cat disappeared.

Well, Wanda Ploegler found her cat Smoky more than 2 miles from the former site of her trailer.

It's nice story for a Sunday.

More adoption success stories

Chico, Diamond, Boomer and Cassie.

These companion animals were up for adoption at the Dutchess County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Hyde Park, N.Y., and were featured in this blog's Ready for Adoption entries.

Well, I was recently informed they've all found new homes. Congratulations to their new owners.

There are plenty more animals at the shelter just waiting for the right person to walk through the doors.

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722).

Shelter pets rule.

Ready for adoption

Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week. Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Mommie — Domestic Short Hair
"Lovable black and white domestic short hair won't make you do your chores like most Mommies, but she insists on play time, treats and lots of TLC."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722).

Shelter pets rule.

Greenie meanies?

A class-action lawsuit was settled Monday by the makers of Greenies, a dog treat that supposedly cleans teeth and freshens breath.

In an article published by the Kansas City Star, the attorney for 10 dog owners said the case was settled but the terms were confidential.

The lawsuit claimed that the product injured or killed close to a dozen dogs.

The manufacturer, S&M NuTec, which is owned by Mars Inc., has repeatedly said Greenies were safe when the dogs were given the appropriate size and didn't gulp it down. They have since made the product more digestible and changed the packaging information.

Kate has, on occasion, eaten a Greenie.

Here again is a video I shot and posted in June.



As with all things chewable — food, snacks or toys — it is up to the pet's owner to make sure they are used safely. I have heard stories of dogs woofing down rawhide chews without eating them. They can swell in the stomach and cause blockages.

Once a friend gave Kate a flat piece of rawhide, something I thought was much safer than the pressed, rolled chews. A small piece lodged in her throat (she was acting like she had eaten peanut butter) and I had to go down the street to my vet/neighbor to remove it.

Vet/neighbor said she probably would have coughed it up eventually — and then eaten it again! Dogs will be dogs.

Mess o' kittens

Just add kittens and stir.

Here's a video recipe for cuteness for a Monday morning.

Jump to it

I know the blog has been really dog-centric lately. My apologies, but there just have not been any outdoor cat events.

Imagine Paws in the Park with 500 cats on leashes being walked through the woods of Bowdoin Park.

How about a dock diving event where the cat runs down a ramp, jumping into water to retrieve its favorite toy?

Let's face it: Dogs are silly and cats are smart.

But here's a cat whose curiosity almost caught up with him.

Dignity, always dignity

After watching this video, I was reminded of the words in the headline that come from the movie Singin' in the Rain.

Dogs are, for the most part, so patient with us.

Why do we do things like this to them?

Though I have to tell you that the nun outfit made me laugh out loud.

Thanks, Sarah, for finding the video.

Ready for adoption

Here is the Dutchess County SPCA Pet of the Week. Ready for adoption. What are you waiting for?

This week's featured pet:
Foxy — Coonhound/Foxhound
"Foxy is as foxy does and as a coonhound/foxhound mix, this tri-colored female certainly has a full plate. If long walks in the woods followed by porch time and a nap sound like fun, come look for Foxy."

The Dutchess County SPCA is located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538. The shelter is open Sunday, Monday, Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Call 845-452-SPCA (7722).

Shelter pets rule.

It ain't easy being green

I don't mean to cut into Alice and Jackie's domain, but I've been reading a a lot of serious books lately, many having to do with environment.

One in particular — The World Without Us, by Alan Weisman — speculates on how the Earth would change if humans were to completely disappear. Houses would eventually crumble, streets would turn into rivers, forest and wildlife would reclaim what was theirs.

But there are some things that will be around for quite a while, like plastic bags.

So in my small way, I've started thinking green. I bought a couple of reusable shopping bags for groceries and, for the gift that keeps on giving, I now use biodegradable bags to pick up after Kate.

I was using food-grade gallon-size bags to collect and dispose of dog waste — an average of three a day.

Made from corn, the biodegradable bags are pricey, so I ordered a bunch from a national pet store chain who had them on sale. And there are Web sites that also sell the dog-waste bags, as well as other biodegradable home products.

Maybe if more people start using them the price will come down.

Now I'll have to work on the apartment complex setting aside some space for composting.

This past weekend was for the dogs

The two dog-related events — Paws in the Park and the 2007 Kiki Classic — are behind us for another year.

My colleague Sarah sent me this picture from the dock diving competition at Ledgewood Kennel in the Town of North East.

Sarah, who went to both events, said the Kiki Classic was a real blast.

If anyone has any pictures from either event, please feel free to send them in using the e-mail link on the left side of this page.

I look forward to seeing what you thought were the best moments of a dog-centric weekend.

Paws in the Park — cont'd.

Here are some more pictures — and thoughts — from the Paws in the Park Petwalk, held this afternoon at Bowdoin Park in the Town of Poughkeepsie.

The benefit walk was for the Dutchess County SPCA in Hyde Park, N.Y.


They set up a casino — please, no wagering! — for dogs and their humans to have some fun.


Below is Bucky, a 9-month-old German Spitz, owned by Jill and Ira Weiss of Staatsburg. He is trying his snout at a shell game — and successfully, I might add. If you picked the right cup, you got to eat the treat.


As people and their dogs participated in the fundraising walk part of the event, through the beautiful woods of Bowdoin Park, they passed a memorial section paying tribute to faithful and loved companions.


There were several vendors, some of which were selling dog treats and other goodies. Beacon Barkery set up a booth, along with the Le Bone Appetit, below.


There were a few competitions — you know how dogs are, as well as their owners. Some pooches were dressed up in costumes, some owners competed in the look-alike contest. There was even Kanine Karaoke. Below is a shot from the Doggie Limbo contest, made tricky by the obligatory and well-timed leash toss. "Tally me banana."


But, man, it was toasty out there. Weather reports put the temp in the mid-80s, but the heat index in the mid-90s. Fortunately for the humans, there were Italian ices to be purchased and enjoyed. For the furry ones, there were plenty of water bowls everywhere in the park. During the walk, there were several stations with yogurt and fruit for the bipeds and plenty of water for the dogs.

Always thinking, the DCSPCA people put three kiddie wading pools out and made sure the park's sprinklers in the playground were turned on.

The pools got a lot of action.


Kate commandeered one of the pools — not once, but twice. It was all I could do to get her out of it. After all, I had work to do, people to see, dogs to admire.


She also drank a lot of it, too.

DCSPCA officials estimated the turn out to be around 500 dogs and up to 1,000 family members. They were shooting to raise $40,000, and I was told by Anna Waz, the development director, that she thought they were going to be close.

But it was all about the dogs and the fun we have with them. It was good to be in the park with others who love their animals.


But I have to tell you that Kate was pretty happy to get to the newsroom. The cool, cool floor was welcome relief compared with the steamy September weather we experience here in New York.


Cuz, you can never have too many pictures of Kate.

Make sure you see the article I did on the Paws in the Park Petwalk in the Sunday Poughkeepsie Journal. You will also be able to see Kathy McLaughlin's beautiful photo gallery, full of pooches and the people who love them.