Pets for Vets is a wonderful program that matches returning veterans with shelter dogs.- a perfect pairing.  Many of our soldiers return from deployment with broken bones, broken spirits and broken hearts. It is estimated that as many as 25% of returning vets suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Their physical and emotional injuries often make it very difficult for them to transition back into civilian life. Studies have shown that companion animals, primarily dogs, can greatly improve the health of traumatized veterans.

I just got an email from a good friend with great news.

I read today in my daily bulletin form Dr. Becker of Healthy Pets, that the  chicken jerky treats suspected  of causing illness and death in dogs since 2007, have been found to be contaminated with an "unapproved" antibiotic. Apparently this antibiotic has been approved for use in China and some other countries but NOT in the U.S.

The N.Y.S. Department of Agriculture told the FDA it found small amounts of this unapproved poultry antibiotic in  certain lots of "Waggin Train, Canyon Creek Ranch, Milo's Kitchen and Chicken Grillers" chicken treats.

While answering the quiz questions from my daily freekibble.com email the other day, I found out about this wonderful organization called "Architects for Animals". Founded by Leslie Farrell, this fundraising initiative was created to help solve the feral cat over-population in New York City. In conjunction with the Mayor's Alliance Feral Cat Initiative, talented architects worked for several months creating wonderful habitats for NYC's feral cats communities.

On January 10th they held their 3rd annual "Giving Shelter" benefit.

I just found out  that January is National Train Your Dog Month. I also just found out that only 4% of Americans enroll their dogs in some sort of obedience training. I was shocked and somewhat disturbed to learn that statistic.

Training a dog for obedience, manners, etc. is not only sensible but it helps to keep your dog happy, safe and well-adjusted.

Some people think only puppies require training and that just for housebreaking. Not true. Puppies need to learn good manners and especially need to be socialized.