NYC ROUNDUP

Actress and animal advocate Bernadette Peters lent her star-power last night to help raise money for the city's needy animals. The passionate animal advocate, who described her rescued pit bull Stella and mutt Kramer as her "rocks," was among the packed crowd of big-hearted supporters who came out to support Friends of Animal Rescue. The fledgling non-profit group, founded by Betsy Goldman, a former television producer who works in PR, raises money to help local animal rescue groups pay for medical and other costs needed to help find homes for adoptable animals.  Unlike other fundraising groups, FOAR pay the bills for a specific animal directly to the vendor - vet, kennel, etc. - so donors know exactly where their money is going. NYC Mayor's Alliance president Jane Hoffman was also among the overflowing crowd at STIR, an Upper East side lounge, along with this beautiful dog named Caymen, who is available for adoption at NYC Animal Care & Control.  If interested in Caymen contact Jennifer Panton at United Action for Animals.

Rachel Ray's Dog Food Helps Feeds the Needy

Celebrity chef Rachel Ray is now into dog food. The dog lover, who cooks for her pit bull Isaboo, has launched the Nutrish brand of "healthy" dog food and treats. The cool thing about her company is that through her non-profit Rachel's Rescue, Ray will donate 100 percent of the proceeds to animal rescue. Yesterday, at a PR lunch held in midtown, the company presented a check for $10,000 to the ASCPA. Ray's own veterinary consultant Dr. Ernie Ward was on hand to tout the benefits of Nutrish, which he says is all natural, based on a chicken and beef diet with no by-products or fillers, but is affordable and will be sold on the grocery store shelves. My dog Ruby scarfed down the Bacony Burger flavored chewy treats, which look like little hamburgers, and are supposedly low in calories. (While the first ingredient is beef - soy flour, corn flour and high-fructose corn syrup are the next ingredients so decide for yourself). The food is manufactured through Ainsworth Pet Nutrition, a privately-owned company and not part of the big conglomerate Menu Foods, which made most of the pet foods involved in last year's pet food recall.

Gung Hay Fat Choy!

The 15-day Chinese New Year begins today, ushering in the Year of the Ox.

The Chinese calendar has a 12-year cycle and each year is named after an animal. People born in the Year of the Ox are said to be dependable, patient, methodical and calm, hardworking, materialistic, and ambitious. They are also honest, reliable and logical, that is why people go to them for advice. People born in this year are also said to be stubborn, narrow minded, and with low public relations skills.

President Obama is an Ox, born in the year 1961. The characteristics seem to suit him, although so far his public relations skills seem stellar. I am also an Ox (though I won't say which year), and initially thought that meant this would be MY year. But according to some Chinese predictions, it may not be so.

Here's today's gloomy report from the Associated Press:

If the global economy fails to recover in 2009, the housing bubble or credit crunch may not be to blame. It could be a lack of fire. Chinese fortunetellers say fire — one of the five elements mystics believe form the basis of the universe — is essential to financial well-being. And fire is nowhere to be found in the mythology of this coming Year of the Ox, the Chinese lunar year that begins Monday.

"Fire is the driving force behind economic growth. Without it, the market lacks momentum," said Raymond Lo, a Hong Kong master of feng shui, the ancient Chinese practice of trying to achieve health, harmony and prosperity through building design, the placement of objects and auspicious dates and numbers.

Chinese soothsayers see a deepening recession, millions more losing their jobs, and stocks and home prices continuing to fall. That's more or less in line with what some economists are predicting, but some fortunetellers are throwing in other dire predictions — massive earthquakes, rising U.S.-Russian tensions and trouble for President Barack Obama.

Obama, born in the Year of the Ox, is taking office in a particularly bad year for his Chinese astrological sign. The ox sign is in direct conflict this year with a traditional Chinese divinity called the "God of Year," considered a bad omen. Obama also is the 44th president, a number the Chinese deem extremely unlucky, because "four" is pronounced the same as "death" in Chinese.

"The new U.S. president is not having good luck this year. His honeymoon will only be short-lived," said fortuneteller Alion Yeo, predicting Obama may even face impeachment in his first year in office. "The Year of the Ox looks slightly better and less dire than last year, but it will still be bumpy."

Yeo also predicted that the U.S. mortgage crisis would worsen and the stock market would plunge to new lows.
But Malaysian numerologist Weng Shi Ming suggested Obama's birth year would offset his bad luck. Weng said the symmetry of 1961 is "the perfect mix of ying and yang," rendering Obama "immune to the effects of 44."

The ox, one of 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac, symbolizes calm, hard work, resolve and tenacity. According to legend, the ox allowed the cunning rat to ride on its head in a race to determine the animals' order. Shortly before the ox crossed the finish line, the rat leaped off to claim victory. The Year of the Rat was marked in 2008.
Among the world's luminaries born in the Year of the Ox: former U.S. President Richard Nixon (1913), former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher (1925), Princess Diana (1961), and Hollywood actors George Clooney (1961) and Richard Gere (1949).

The lunar new year is the biggest annual festival for ethnic Chinese, who make up about one-fifth of the world's population. It is a time of lavish spending, when loved ones exchange "hong bao," or red envelopes stuffed with money. But this year's festivities will likely be more subdued amid the economic slump.

"What's important is that the family has a good time. There's no need to overspend," said Ooi Lee Mui, a Malaysian housewife shopping in Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown, where the season's gold lanterns and bright-hued flowers bedecked streets and stores.

Joey Yap, a feng shui expert in Malaysia, saw no economic recovery before 2010.

"It will be a daunting year. We haven't really reached the peak of the problems yet," Yap said. "We haven't tasted the main dish, and will most likely experience it during the second half of the year."

But feng shui master Lo saw a glimmer of hope. The combination of two elements changes every lunar year, and this time it's two earths, the element that represents harmony and peace. Not since 1949, when the world order was settling down after World War II, has an Ox Year seen two earth signs.
"It is a year for healing ... from the turbulent time the world has experienced," Lo said.

According to one Chinese prediction, a male Ox can look forward to new romances. Sadly, the female Ox may not be as lucky in love. The good news is the Ox will progress and developments will be recognized and achieved.

But the unlucky stars are also shining upon the Ox, could cause poor interpersonal relationships, financial disputes and blackmailing. These unlucky stars can cause turbulence to the Ox’s otherwise beautiful career path for the Year of the Ox 2009. It is advised that he should work on and improved his interpersonal relationships skill, as this is his weakest department, and the area he is likely to go wrong.

Despite the less than rosy outlook, I am hoping the Year of the Ox is a prosperous and happy one for all.

PetSmart Voluntarily Recalls Dog Biscuits

The peanut butter recall has gone to the dogs.

PetSmart Inc. is voluntarily recalling seven of its Grreat Choice-brand dog biscuit products that contain peanut paste made by the Peanut Corp. of America. That company is the focus of a FDA investigation into potential salmonella contamination of peanut butter and paste made at its Blakely, Ga., plant.

The recalled Grreat Choice dog biscuits were sold between Aug. 21 and Jan. 19. If you have the biscuits, you can return them to PetSmart for a full refund.

A list of treats involved in the recall can be found here.

While healthy adult dogs are fairly resistant to illness from Salmonella bacteria, pets with health issues, young puppies and elderly or pregnant dogs that may have compromised immune systems may be at greater risk for becoming ill. And it can pass between pets and humans, so wash your hands good!

Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine of the ASPCA, says adult cats are relatively resistant and most dogs infected with the bacterium appear normal, but can pass Salmonella through their feces.

Dogs who do become ill from Salmonella may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy, and drooling or panting—an indication of nausea. In severe cases, the bacterium may spread throughout the body resulting in death. Cats may develop high fever with vague non-specific clinical signs. If you suspect that your pet may have ingested a contaminated recalled product, please contact your local veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435.

For a complete list of affected brands and more information on the recall, please visit FDA's recall page at www.fda.gov/oc/opacom/hottopics/salmonellatyph.html. As recall information can change rapidly, it is important to check information often.

Rescued Goldendoodle for First Dog?

Now that President Obama (doesn't that sound sweet!) has been sworn in, it's time to settle one of the top orders of business . . . finding.the peftect First Dog. A rescued "golden doodle" might just be the answer to the doggie dilemma, says the Best Friends Animal Society.

Two golden doodle puppies from Missouri fit the Obama Family’s criteria, one that would be easy on allergies, and a pooch from a shelter. Described as having a “ridiculous amount of adorable,” the standard poodle, golden retriever mixes, who were rescued from a puppy mill, are patiently waiting at their foster home in Colorado Springs for a call from The White House.

“Our two Golden Doodle Girls—Stella and Susie—are only four months old and waiting for a loving home—and The White House would be just fine with them,” said Theresa Strader of National Mill Dog Rescue. “They were not in very good shape when we got them; they had various infections including pneumonia, which is common with dogs rescued from puppy mills. But now they are in perfect health and are ready to get on with the rest of their lives.

National Mill Dog Rescue often partners with Best Friends helping to find homes for dogs—usually purebred animals—rescued from puppy mills, large scale commercial mass breeding operations that supply pet shops across the United States.

“Puppy mills are out-of-sight, out-of-mind with the general public,” says Julie Castle, director of community programs for Best Friends Animal Society. “If the Obamas were to adopt Stella or Susie, it would go a long way toward educating Americans about the conditions in puppy mills, which will decrease the demand for these dogs in pet shops.”

Best Friends’ national campaign against puppy mills made the headlines recently when the management of the upscale mall, The Beverly Center, announced it was terminating the lease of “Pet Love,” a store that sold puppy mill dogs for thousands of dollars. This followed months of peaceful, informational protests by Best Friends and other animal welfare groups.

The adoption of Stella and/or Susie would go a long way toward sending a strong message to current and future pet owners: Adoption, coupled with effective spay-neuter programs, enables abused, abandoned dogs to obtain a new lease on life and helps control pet overpopulation.

Strader said, “After helping Stella and Susie to become healthy, their foster family here in Colorado Springs has taught them so many new things. They are both really smart, in just one week they have already learned the basic commands; come, sit, lie down and stay.”

Stella and Susie are housetrained (which should put White House housekeepers at ease). “Stella is more laid back with a very sweet and outgoing temperament but happy to have several naps a day,” Strader added. “Susie is a bit more of a wild child - very energetic and a bit nosy, but also very loving and sweet.”

“We truly believe that adopting either of these darling girls would be a great choice for the First Family,” Strader added. “They definitely had a very difficult beginning but are perfect models for what can be achieved when tender, loving care is given to animals in need.”

Strap on some Cojones and Fix Your Dog

He may be tough as nails (or a staple gun) but actor Mickey Rourke is a softee when it comes to his animals. The once down-and-out screen star thanked his dogs for when accepting his Golden Globe award. "Sometimes when a man is alone, that's all you’ve got is your dog," he said. "They meant the world to me." Now he's putting his Hollywood comeback in "The Wrestler" to help combat animal overpopulation in a new spay neuter ad for PETA. Cradling his Chihuahua, Jaws, Rourke urges people to "have the cojones to fix your dog. When dogs get knocked up, puppies get put down because there aren't enough homes for them."

Stop the Army from Using Animal Cruelty in Training

Farm Sanctuary, in upstate NY, is reporting that the US Army plans to stab, shoot, and break the legs of pigs and goats this week as part of a training program at Fort Dix. The idea is to create combat injuries so that medics-in-training can fix them. Instead, animal advocates say it is an exercise in cruelty.

Better methods exist to ensure wounded soldiers get medical care. In fact, the Department of Defense has an animal welfare regulation that requires the use of non-animal methods when such methods are available. The training starts today and runs through Friday, so there is no time to waste. Farm Sanctuary is urging the public to write letters to Colonel Thaxton, the Installation Commander at Fort Dix immediately. Click here ">here to send a letter now.

TAINTED PET FOOD IN CHINA REASON TO EAT LOCAL?

The recall in China of an imported pet food that has reportedly sickened and killed dozens of dogs is raising many questions about the unregulated pet food industry.

Dozens of dogs are believed to have died due to aflatoxin poisoning after eating a U.S. brand pet food, Optima Puppy Lamb and Rice Dry Dog Food.   Unlike the 2007 massive pet food recall, which was blamed on melamine imported from China, this pet food recall is being blamed on quality control.

The "US-made" food was reportedly sitting in an overheated warehouse past its time limit due to logistics and restrictions during the Beijing Olympics.

CNN reported this week that Natural Pet Corporation, which is the distributor for Optima dog food from Australia, has ordered a recall.

A local Chinese paper reported that the food wasn't authorized to be imported from Australia.

Import records show the food came from Australian-based Doane International Pet Products. The food is made by U.S-based Doane Pet Care, in Nashville, TN.  Its web site doesn't mention the recall. Doane Pet Care is owned by Mars, Inc,, which makes the Sheba, Cesar, Pedigree brands, among others. In Novmeber, 2008, Mars recalled pet food that was tainted with Salmonella. Mars makes no mention of the Chinese recall, either.  

Sound familiar?  The largely unregulated pet food industry was responsible in 2007, for the recall of over 150 brands of foods after sickening an killing thousands of dogs and cats.   Pet owners and veterinarians alike were surprised to find that so many foods - from gourmet to grocery brands - were made by the same manufacturer, Menu Foods, in Canada.

Whether the recalls are blamed on quality control or tainted products, isn't this a big wake up call to feed our pets foods made with locally grown products? 

CINCI FREEDOM: COW THAT ESCAPED SLAUGHTER IN 2002 DIES

Cinci Freedom, a cow that escaped from a Cincinnati meatpacking plant in 2002 and ran free in a city park for 10 days, lived out the second half of her life in bucolic splendor at the Farm Sanctuary, in upstate New York, reports the Associated Press.

Cinci was euthanized Dec. 29 after losing one of her hind legs from spinal cancer.

Although she never lost her intense fear of humans, the 13-year-old Charolais put on as much as 800 pounds and found plenty of room for frolicking on a 175-acre animal sanctuary with a herd of feisty soul mates rescued from factory farms, stockyards and slaughterhouses.

Cinci, which had slimmed down to 1,200 pounds after years of breeding, jumped a 6-foot fence to elude slaughter in February 2002. In tracking her down, authorities searched a 57-acre park by foot, Jeep and helicopter, left out hay and even brought in other cows to lure the runaway.

She was eventually tranquilized and captured by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. On April 1 that year, she was presented with a key to the city. But she was kept out of a parade for the start of the baseball season when she became too balky and had to be tranquilized a second time.

In the meantime, animal-welfare activists stepped forward to guarantee her a new home. Artist Peter Max took custody after offering paintings to help in the expansion of the Cincinnati-area animal society.

"She arrived at the shelter with abscesses on her face," Coston said. "She was pretty thin and dirty and just didn't look healthy."

But she hadn't lost any of her high spirits.

"We usually quarantine animals for three to six weeks," Coston said. "She actually got out of the barn, smashed a gate and then another gate, and put herself in the herd within the first week. After being here for a year, she was close to 2,000 pounds, her coat was really clean and white and she was very muscled.

"She was always very aware of people present but she didn't have that constant fear because she was a part of a herd and that's the structure they live in" out on the pasture.

While dairy cattle can often live to 30 years, the age span for large breeds such as Charolais is typically 15 years to 20 years, Coston said.

As Cinci lay dying in a snowy field, the herd of 55 gathered around and some stepped forward to lick her face and back.
Her death was "sad and emotional" for those who cared for her, Coston said, but also a triumph for "anyone who feels that all beings should have the right to be free and to live out their lives in peace."

DOGS' DEATH LINKED TO IMPORTED FOOD IN CHINA

A brand of imported pet food has been linked to the deaths of dozens of dogs across the China, reports the China Daily.

Since the end of November, at least 30 dogs have died from liver complications after eating Optima dog food imported from Australia.

It is suspected of containing aflatoxin, an extremely toxic and carcinogenic fungus found on corn and other grains that can cause liver damage.

Aflatoxin contamination made the news in 2006 when a number of dogs died after eating the Diamond brand of dog food made in the United States. Read full story.

BATTLE IN THE GARDEN GENERATED SOME HEAT

Saturday's NY Daily News "Critters" story, "Battle in the Garden," seems to have generated a lot of buzz, with most people sensitive to the feral cats Clarence and Betty, not the gardeners. Most readers believe Clarence and Betty, who have lived in the St. Marks Prospect Heights Community Garden for more than a year, are part of the community and deserve to stay in the garden.  Alexandra Bonacarti, who cares for the cats at the garden, says she was bombarded with calls and emails from as far as Ft. Lauderdale, by people willing to help relocate the feral duo.   She's hoping the story will create enough community support so the cats can stay right where they are.  What I didn't mention was that Bonacarti removed 10 other cats and kittens from the garden and had them adopted out.   Clarence and Betty are no longer adoptable, but they aren't a nuisance, Bonacarti says.  In fact, their presence keeps other critters and cats out of the garden.   Last week, Clarence and Betty were waiting for Bonacarti when she came with food, but after eating they scampered out of the garden into nearby yards. The photog managed to get this great shot of Clarence.

You can learn a lot more about feral cats at www.neighborhoodcats.org.   

GIANT PINK LIZARD IS NEWEST SPECIES

[AP} - Hard to believe a giant, pink lizard could be overlooked for almost two centuries.

Charles Darwin missed it during his 1835 study of the Galapagos Islands that led to his theory of evolution. Park rangers ignored the pink and black-striped reptiles after accidentally happening upon them in 1986. Some thought the stripes were just stains.

But scientists now have documented a new species, the iguana "rosada," which may be one of the archipelago's oldest, according to research published this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Blood and genetic tests on 36 pink iguanas - which average 3-5 feet in length - show the lizards belong to a previously undiscovered species that appears to live exclusively around Isabela Island's Wolf Volcano, an area Darwin never explored.

Researchers from the University of Rome Tor Vergata and Galapagos National Park began to investigate in 2001 whether the lizards were a different species or an adaptation for environmental or food reasons of the Galapagos' two known land iguanas: the Conolophus subcristatus and Conolophus pallidus.

But the pink iguana, it turns out, is older and likely the predecessor of the two, said Cruz Marquez, a biologist who is part of the research team. It dates back more than 5 million years, researchers say.

The pink iguana has not yet been given a scientific name.

"To discover a large vertebrate that was unknown in an area where there has been a lot of research is very special," Marquez told The Associated Press by telephone from the park.

The pink iguana population size, eating and reproductive habits are still unknown, and no young animals have been discovered, according to a park statement. Further research will determine what resources are needed to guarantee the lizards' survival.

"We need to clarify if reproduction is impeded and for what reasons," lead researcher Gabriele Gentile told the AP, noting that feral cats in the area may be eating the iguana's eggs.

The Galapagos islands, an archipelago located about 620 miles off Ecuador's Pacific coast, were protected as a UNESCO's Natural Heritage site in 1978. In 2007 UNESCO declared them at risk due to harm from invasive species, tourism and immigration.

The islands are known for their unique flora and fauna, including marine and land iguanas, blue-footed boobies and giant tortoises that live up to 150 years of age. The variety of finches on the islands inspired Darwin's theory of evolution.

LABRAPORT OR PORTUDOODLE FOR FIRST PUPPY?

The Obama family has narrowed their choice for First Dog to two breeds - a Labradoodle, a cross between a Lab and a poodle, and Portugese water dog, writes the NY Daily News. But will the First Family still be able to keep the promise to adopt from a shelter? A peek on Petfinder.com shows only 10 Portugese Water dogs in the whole country, and most of them are mixed. Of the more than 18,000 labradors in shelters, it's likely many are a mix between a lab and a poodle.

So how to solve the ruf dilemma: How about a mix of a Portugese water dog and a Lab? Check out Gus, who's up for adoption at the Angels in Fur Dog Rescue, in Grenada Hills, CA.

Or Blackie - a mix between a Portugese water dog and a poodle.  She's 3 years old and looks like a labradoodle.   Either could be a good fit for Malia and Sasha.

LOCAL ROUNDUP

The New Year hasn't started off with a bang for New York's shelter animals.

Today, the NY Daily News' Lisa Colangelo reported that an outbreak of Strep Zoo, a rare and potential deadly bacterial infection, forced the Brooklyn Animal Care & Control Shelter to close its doors last week.  At least several dogs died and animal rescuers say many have been infected.  Read the story here.

On Long Island, 180 cats were removed from a Moriches home, reports Newsday.  The animals were taken to a vet to be spayed and neutered.

But here's a bright spot:  The League of Humane Voters of NYC is spreading its wings.  The non-profit animal welfare group announced yesterday it was going statewide and changing its name to New York League of Humane Voters (NYLHV). Stay tuned for the launch of the new web site at www.nylhv.org.

Temple Grandin Discussed "Animals Make Us Human" on NPR

Animal advocate Temple Grandin was just on NPR's Fresh Air with Terry Gross, to discuss her new book, "Animals Make Us Human: Creating the Best Life for Animals."  The book looks at common notions of animal happiness and concludes that dogs, cats, horses, cows and zoo animals, among others, have an emotional capacity similar to humans. Grandin explains how to fulfill their needs, such as how to keep pigs from being bored, or how to know if the lion pacing in the zoo is miserable or just exercising.

For those not familiar with her work, Grandin, who is autistic, is totally fascinating. As one of the nation's top designers of livestock facilities, she audits and advises company's, including McDonalds, on implementing humane conditions for housing animals - and for slaughtering them. 

Her previous books include Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior and Thinking in Pictures.

Grandin discussed the connections between animal behavior and autistic behavior. She also explained how overbreeding has lead to structural and emotional issues in farm animals. For example, manipulating chickens o produce more eggs has resulted in chickens that are hype-rexcitable. The result of over-breeding pigs so they produce more meat has caused leg deformities, such as legs that are too straight, and dew claws that are too long. She advises the industry how to breed the animals so they are structurally and mentally sound.

Grandin, who has written extensively on her life with autism as well as other books on animals, says she doesn't like physical contact with people, but enjoys physical contact with animals.  "I really enjoy stroking an animal," she said on NPR, describing them as firm strokes like mother's tongue, and enjoys stroking cattle on the neck. "I do get pleasure from stroking an animal and seeing that animal be happy."

Underdog to Wonderdog Kicks off at Prohibition

"Underdog to Wonderdog" host Ryan Smith joined celeb dog trainer Andrea Arden at a kick-off party for the new Animal Planet series, held Saturday night at Prohibition, in Manhattan.  Each week, the series follows a shelter dog from its rescue and rehabilitation to the dog's first meeting with its new adoptive family and dream home.  Ryan and Arden make up half of the Wonder Team that helps the rescue dog find its second leash on life. The Critters column covered it in Saturday's NY Daily News. 

Creature Comforts

In case you missed it, check out Rebecca Skloot's story on service animals, from miniature pony's to parrots, in Sunday's NY Times Magazine right here.  

Advocates Protest Central Park Carriage Horses

A handful of animal advocates gathered in frigid temperatures at Central Park Thursday to protest horse-drawn-carriage rides as the City Council gets ready to consider a ban on the tourist attraction, writes the NY Daily News.

One advocate noted that as horses went to work in a snowstorm last month, and one slipped on an icy street.  The Council is set to debate a bill later this month that would shut down the industry.

The plight of NYC's carriage horses is highlighted in the one-hour award-winning documentary, "Blinders: The Truth Behind the Tradition."

A horse-drawn carriage rides around Central Park has long been a favorite activity of tourists from around the world. But the future of this industry is the subject of a debate being aired on the streets, in the press and at City Hall. Carriage operators say that horse-drawn carriages should stay because they are a cherished symbol of New York City that bring in tourist dollars. Advocates for animals say the industry should be banned because it's inhumane and unsafe. They believe Hollywood has romanticized horse-drawn carriages and claim that life on congested city streets is anything but romantic for these nervous animals that are easily spooked.

As a result of three dramatic and fatal accidents since 2006 that received international media attention, the plight of the beloved New York City carriage horses is now in the public eye more than ever before. But the public doesn't know much more than what they see on the streets and in the news.

Company that Went Bust Cloning Cats is Now Cloning Dogs

Today's NY Times story, "Beloved Pets Everlasting?" highlights Lou Hawthorne's "successful" attempt to clone his mother's dog Missy. It's not in the Science section, as one might imagine a cloning story would be, but in Home and Garden, under Living Together. That's strange in itself.

Animal lovers may remember Hawthorne from his last cloning company. He ran the Sausalito-based Genetic Savings and Clone, which was in the business of cloning cats.  That company was also founded as a result of the efforts to clone Missy.  But dog cloning proved more difficult than cats.

Instead of cloning Missy, Tabouli and Baba Ganoush were born after being cloned from Hawthorne's son's one-year-old female Bengal cat. In 2004, he delivered the world's first commercially cloned cat, Little Nicky, who was sold to a Texas woman for a $50,000. In 2006 the company went bust and Hawthorne was forced to notify all of the sad people that put out $50,000 that in fact, they would not be receiving a replica of their favorite kitty.

The company spurred widespread debate regarding the ethics and morality of pet cloning especially in light of the fact that animals are euthanized by their owners every day.

So now he has "successfully" cloned Missy. There is Mira and MissyToo, who don't really look or act exactly like the orignial Missy, he says. Hawthorne's mom has MissyToo, but the dog doesn't live in her home - after all, she had already adopted and fell in love with another puppy after Missy died. And anyway, MissyToo isn't really like her original Missy. So MissyToo is relegated to live with a handler in her very wealthy companion's pied-a-terre.

“It’s kind of weird,” Mr. Hawthorne says in the article. “They spent 10 years waiting for this to happen and then they don’t even want the dogs living with them."

Meanwhile, Nina and Ed Otto paid $155,000 to clone their labrador Lancelot. But the puppy has to be flown back from Korea before they can see him.

Is this weird or what? Isn't the memory of a beloved pet enough? And how long before we Hawthorne's new venture goes bust after dashing people's dreams?

NATIONAL ROUNDUP

Georgia Inmates Care for Rescued Horses
The high price of hay and the crappy economy are being blamed for the high number of horse owners who are giving up and abandoning or neglecting their animals around the country.

In Georgia, a dozen inmates at Pulaski State Prison are helping to rehabilitate abandoned and neglected horses that have been impounded by the state.   In the state's first prison horse-rescue farm female inmates are learning skills needed to become a certified veterinary technician through Middle Georgia Technical College in Warner Robins. Read.

Rapper DMX pleads guilty to drug, theft charges

Rapper DMX has reached a plea deal on multiple drug possession, theft and animal cruelty charges, reports the Associated Press.

DMX, whose real name is Earl Simmons, pleaded guilty Tuesday to one count of animal cruelty, one count of theft, and one count each of felony possession of marijuana and a narcotic drug.

A Maricopa County Superior Court commissioner has set a sentencing hearing for Jan. 30.
Additional charges will be dismissed then.

The 38-year-old rapper has been arrested several times in Arizona in the past year and missed several court dates.

Authorities alleged that DMX gave a false name and Social Security number when being treated at a Scottsdale hospital in April. He was indicted on felony charges of theft and taking someone's identity.

The animal cruelty charge, a misdemeanor, came from an August 2007 raid that Maricopa County sheriff's deputies conducted at DMX's Cave Creek home. Authorities investigating a report of animal abuse found three dead dogs, guns, ammunition and drug paraphernalia.

Humane Society University Offers Online Training

Despite the bleak economy, the $43 billion pet business is still booming, which means opportunities in the diverse industry abound. But if staying competitive means updating your skillset, check out new low-cost online classes from the Humane Society University - the educational arm of the HSUS.

Current course offerings range from interviewing, staff selection and marketing your non-profit to interpreting animal behavior for safe handling. Prices range from $25 and $35 and some are free! For more information on Humane Society University, and to register for on-line courses, go to http://www.humanesociety.org/university and click on the left menu entitled “Online Courses.”

Prince Edward Investigated for Beating Dogs

Prince Edward today is feeling the heat. The 44-year-old Prince is being investigated by British welfare organizations after a photographer caught him raising his 4-ft walking stick at two labradors while on a hunting expedition. The photographs show him rushing at the animals with his shotgun tucked under his arm and a long stick raised in the air. Buckingham Palace said Edward waved his stick to try and break up a fight between his animals over a dead pheasant. Check out the photos at the Mail Online.

Uncle Sam or Felix the Lamb?

If  you're thinking about making a monetary donation this year but would rather it not go to Uncle Sam, consider helping care for some farm animals at the Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary, about two hours from the GWB.    Felix, a three-legged lamb rescued from a Bronx slaughterhouse is among the menagerie of animals that are living out their life upstate on a big old farm.  Read about them at www.woodstockfas.org.

LOCAL ROUNDUP

Red-Tailed Hawk Spotted in Washington Square Park

Rumor has it a red-tailed hawk - and possibly a mate - have once again taken up residence in Washington Square Park.  One passerby said he spotted a hawk hovering yesterday near the playground, where it appeared to be pining after a child holding a paper airplane. 

Last January, park-goers sighted a red-tailed hawk flying and nesting throughout the Greenwich Village park, which was - and still is - under construction.  Photographer Brian Dube, who lives on the North side of the park, was stunned to spot a young red-tailed hawk finishing up its pigeon lunch on top of the air conditioner outside his apartment (see photo). Let us know if you've seen the hawk.

Agriculture Secretary a Good Pick for Advocates

President-elect Barack Obama's recent pick of former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack as incoming Agriculture Secretary was disappointing to at least some of the interest groups focused on a food reform agenda for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). 

But many animal advocates are happy about the new cabinet pick.

The Humane Society of the United States is among those groups that are endorsing Vilsack.  On his blog, HSUS head Wayne Pacelle notes the former Iowa governor had a strong record on many animal protection issues that came up in Iowa—everything from cracking down on animal fighting to vetoing legislation that would have classified puppy mill dogs as "farm products" and allowed mourning dove hunting in the state. In his new post, Vilsack will have to confront major food policy issues, and we'll be advocating strongly for a fresh new perspective at the agency, Pacelle said.

DawnWatch: Year-End Roundup

Animal advocate and "Thanking the Monkey" author Karen Dawn ties together this year's major animal stories. Read

Vick's Pit Bull Graces Cover of Sports Illustrated

The story, "Vick's Dogs: The Good News out of the Bad Newz Kennels," by John Gorantz is an upbeat look at the aftermath of Michael Vick's criminal conviction and current federal jail term for overseeing and financing a dog fighting ring on his Virginia farm. It focuses on the successful efforts of animal rescue groups that helped rehabilitate and find homes for the dogs and includes a wonderful photo gallery. Read the article here.

NATIONAL ROUNDUP

Former First Cat Battling Cancer

Two famous figures in the Bill Clinton White House -- his personal secretary and ailing pet cat, Socks -- are back in the public eye, reports the Associated Press.

Clinton secretary Betty Currie is working for John D. Podesta, co-chairman of President-elect Barack Obama's transition, at the same time reports surfaced that her adopted pet Socks has cancer.

"It's not a happy prognosis," said presidential historian Barry Landau, a friend of Currie's. Although Currie opted against invasive tests, Landau believes Socks has "days or weeks" to live.

Currie is remembered for picking up from Monica Lewinsky gifts that the former president had given the White House intern in 1997. Currie later testified during investigations into Clinton's affair.

Currie went to the Clinton White House after serving in his transition, but it was unclear whether she would follow a similar path with Obama.

Socks has lived with Currie since the Clintons left the White House. The black-and-white cat didn't get along with the Clintons' dog, Buddy, and aggravated the president's allergies.

Purr-Fect Holiday Reading

Here's my round-up of books to curl up with this holiday season, published in the NY Daily News today. My personal favorite is "Old Dogs Are the Best Dogs," with beautiful photos of senior dogs whose soulful eyes tell us that have been around the block many, many times. The list will be updated as there a slew of new tomes. Read List

Stranded Military Family and Pets Find Refuge in Snowstorm

With record snowstorms, twins on the way, and a dog and cat in tow, it seemed like the Pardun family, from an upstate NY military base would never get home to Portland, Oregon, But with a little luck—and a lot of help—they made their way back home for the holiday.

On Christmas eve, Private Blaine Pardun, a military officer who is heading for Iraq, was stranded at JFK with his pregnant wife Katie, who is expecting twins, Rex, a five-month old German Shepherd, and Mr. Jegger, a year-and-a-half-old Siamese mix cat. The Parduns had already made the seven-hour drive from their home on the Fort Drum military base in New York to catch a flight to Portland in time for Christmas.

The family reached out to out to Oregon U.S. Senator Ron Wyden’s office for help. Patrick Kwan, New York Director for the Humane Society of the United States said Senator Wyden’s office secured temporary housing options for the Pardun family, but the facilities cannot accept pets. Though the JFK Airport has a pet boarding facility, the cost—$50 per night, per animal for the family’s dog and cat—was outside the family’s reach.

The HSUS arranged for the family - including their pets - to stay at the Howard Johnson hotel near JFK. On Christmas Day, Kwan drove out to the airport to see them off.

Kwan said the family made the crazy trip with their animals so Katie to be with her family when she delivers her twins.

Many stranded pets never make it on the plane. “Sadly, many travelers abandon their pets at the JFK Airport,” said Kwan, who has been campaigning for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which operates JFK Airport, to address the issue, including the plight of the feral cats at the airport.

“Some of the pet owners are plainly irresponsible, but there are also those, like the Pardun family, who feel like they have no other choice.”

Seized puppies at LAX wag way into home

http://www.dailynews.com/news/ci_11280630
Here's an interesting story about an auction of pure bred puppies from a puppy mill that were seized in Los Angeles. Ed Boks, who was the former director of NYC's Animal Care & Control shelters and now in charge of LA's animal services was behind the auction. Read full story.

Ban Breed Bans and other Ideas for Obama

This came in an email from John Bozak, author of Demo: The Story of a Junkyard Dog, about a special dog he came to love:

I'm not sure if you've heard, but there's a movement of citizens
inspired by the presidential campaign who are now submitting ideas for
how they think the Obama Administration should change America. It's
called "Ideas for Change in America."

One idea is titled: Ban Breed Specific Legislation. I thought you
might be interested in getting involved and recommend you check it
out. You can read more and vote for the idea by clicking the
following link:

http://www.change.org/ideas/view/ban_breed_specific_legislation

The top 10 ideas are going to be presented to the Obama Administration
on Inauguration Day and will be supported by a national lobbying
campaign run by Change.org, MySpace, and more than a dozen leading
nonprofits after the Inauguration. So each idea has a real chance at
becoming policy.

FLEAS NAVIDAD!

From Ada Nieves and her Chihuahua Quartet

NATIONAL ROUNDUP

Pierced and Studded Kitties Sold on Ebay Now in Care of SPCA

A Pennsylvania woman was busted for selling kittens whose ears, backs, and necks had been pierced with metal studs and rings, writes kitty Helena Sung at the NY Small Dog Examiner. Read story.

NATIONAL ROUNDUP

Biden's Promises Second Puppy Coming From a Shelter
Vice President Elect Joe Biden took a lot of heat from animal rights groups after his wife Jill bought him a German shepherd puppy from a breeder. With thousands of shepherds living in shelters across the country, animal advocates were hoping he would adopt - not buy. Pressure has mounted on the Obama family to get the First-puppy from a shelter. Today, Biden told ABC News' George Stephanopoulos that a second puppy will be heading with the Biden family to Washington, and it's coming from a shelter.

Help Protect Carriage Horses During the Holidays

Tourists travel year-round to Central Park to ride in one of New York’s legendary horse-drawn carriage, but the future of this industry is the subject of a highly charged debate. Earlier this year, the documentary Blinders helped raise awareness of the plight of NYC's carriage horses. taking viewers on a behind-the-scenes look at the truth behind the tradition.

Carriage operators say that horse-drawn carriages should stay because they are a beloved symbol of New York City that bring in tourist dollars. Advocates for animals say the industry should be banned because it’s inhumane and unsafe. They believe Hollywood has romanticized horse-drawn carriages and claim that life on congested city streets is anything but romantic for these nervous animals that are easily spooked.

This holiday season the ASPCA reminds the public of city and state laws designed to protect carriage horses:

• Carriage horses cannot be worked when the temperature reaches 18 degrees and below.
  
• During the winter, horses must be blanketed while awaiting passengers.
  
• Carriage horses cannot be driven faster than a trot.
  
• Carriage horses can only be worked nine hours during any 24-hour period.
  
• Horses must be given a rest period of at least 15 minutes for every two hours they work.
  
• Fresh water must be made available to them during their rest periods.
  
• Horses must be provided with enough food and water and allowed to eat and drink at reasonable intervals while they are working. (Carriage horse drivers may carry water on the carriage or make use of troughs in the park. The law does not specify how to provide water--only that it be provided.)
• Horses cannot be worked when they are lame or suffer from a physical condition, illness or condition that makes them unsuitable for work.
• The law prohibits “abuse “of carriage horses which means physical maltreatment or failure to provide the care required by the regulations.
• Horses are prohibited from working during “adverse weather conditions,” which means any condition that is hazardous to the health and safety of the horse, driver or the public. This includes, but is not limited to, ice, snow, heavy rain and other slippery conditions.
• Carriage horses are not allowed on bridges or in tunnels.
• Carriage horse operators must obey traffic laws. This includes traffic lights, signs, prohibitions on U turns, etc.

In addition to the New York City code and rules, state law makes cruelty to horses a crime. Cruelty means knowingly causing injury or death to a horse, or allowing someone else to do so.

Reports of suspected animal cruelty should be made to the ASPCA at (212) 876-7700, ext. 4450, or humanel@aspca.org.

NATIONAL ROUNDUP

Protests in China Over Eating Cats

While animal lovers in Beijing protested the killing of cats for food on Thursday, a butcher in Guangdong province — where felines are the main ingredient in a famous soup — just shrugged her shoulders and wielded her cleaver, the Associated Press reported. Story

LOCAL ROUNDUP

Council Members Vote on Humane Education
Despite the best efforts of the League of Humane Voters of NYC and dozens of protesters that took to City Hall on Tuesday, City Council Speaker Christine Quinn opposed Resolution 497.  The Humane Education resolution required teachers to be notified of an existing law that requires elementary schools to teach students about the humane treatment of animals. Read about it issue and the vote breakdown at www.humanenyc.org.

Here Kitty Kitty! FooPets Launched Online

If you can't adopt a kitten or puppy with real fur for the holidays, a new breed of pets are available for adoption and they're waiting online to fetch you a bone.  FooMojo announced today the launch of FooPets, a realistic virtual pet that users can play with, train, fetch, and feed. The company's CEO Ron Hornbaker, a veterinarian, said each of the animals is "alive in the online domain," which may be a little farfetched - but admittedly, they are sort of cute. The effort is backed by the Humane Society and the ASPCA, among other animal welfare groups. Check them out at www.foopets.com. A story here on Virtual World News explains it best.

NATIONAL ROUNDUP

Recession-proof Cat Toys 

Entertaining your feisty feline doesn't have to break the bank.   A ball of tin foil, a Trader Joe's paper shopping bag to hide in, or hair scrunchie can keep my cats busy for hours.  There are a lot of ways to pamper your feline for free, the Associated Press reports.  Read

Pets and Owners Barking the Same Language

Today's NY Daily News ran and Associated Press story that reports sixty-seven percent of pet owners understand their animal's woofs, meows or other sounds, and women understand their pets better than anyone, a poll shows.  Read

NATIONAL ROUNDUP

Pit Bull Ad Blitz: Spay Now or Pay Later
Here is an excellent story on the ASPCA's low-cost spay/neuter urban grafitti campaign that helps Bronx pit bull owners keep their dogs, by Jessica Firger in City Limits.  Read

Report Questions Safety of EPA-Approved Pesticides for Pets
At least 1,600 pet deaths linked to so-called “spot on” treatments with pyrethroids, a class of synthetic pesticides, have been reported to the EPA over the past five years, according to a report by the Center for Public Integrity. These treatments are currently approved for sale by the EPA and are easily available over-the-counter at grocery and hardware stores and specialty pet retailers.

The number is about double the number of reported fatalities tied to similar treatments without pyrethroids, such as Frontline and Advantage — products that also have its critics.

The safety of these anti-flea-and-tick treatments is the subject of the latest addition to the Center's Perils of the New Pesticides project. Pyrethroid-based products from Hartz, Sergeant’s, Farnam, and Bayer have stirred the ire of pet owners, the concern of veterinarians, and the attention of regulatory agencies. Pyrethroid spot on treatments also account for more than half of the “major” pesticide pet reactions reported to EPA over the last five years.  

Is Biden in the Doghouse?

The Vice-president elect's choice to buy a pure bred German shepherd from a breeder and not adopt is causing animal advocates to cringe, the LA Times reports.

NATIONAL ROUNDUP

Michael Vick's Dog on Today's Ellen

Georgia, one of 22 dogs rescued from Atlanta Falcon's quarterback Michael Vick's illegal dog-fighting ring, made an appearance today on the Ellen Degeneres Show.

Trainer John Garcia, star of the National Geographic Channel series Dogtown, taped the Ellen show with Georgia on Thursday.

Ellen and her partner, Portia de Rossi, are donating to Best Friends Animal Society, in lieu of holiday gifts for friends and family. Ellen is encouraging others to do the same. The Kanab, Utah animal sanctuary provides refuge to thousands of homeless animals.

Vick is now serving a 23-month prison sentence on a federal dog-fighting conspiracy charge.

Jet Blue Launches Petiquette Program
Now that the pet-friendly airline charges $100 one-way for each pet, Jet Blue wants your doggone business. The pet-friendly airline is now offering two bonus award points per flight so your cat or dog can start earning free flights. The airline is also selling a custom-made carrier co-designed by columnist Cindy Adams, founder of Jazzy Park Avenue Dog Products. The $45 carrier is available online at www.jetblue.com/jetpaws. And through Dec. 30, customers can enter the 'JetBlue Pet Look-Alike' photo contest for a chance to win a trip for two to a top pet-friendly destination. The grand prize winner will receive roundtrip travel for two to any of the airline's 51 destinations, and four runner-ups will receive the JetPaws Pet Carrier and Pet Travel Kit.

HSUS Busts Three Animal Abuse Rings
It was a big week for the Humane Society of the Unites States, which helped bust three major animal abuse enterprises in three different communities in North America—a reported dogfighting don in North Carolina, a massive suspected cockfighting breeding operation on the north coast of California, and a puppy mill in Quebec. Read More

Barney's Last White House Christmas

Farewell Barney. . .

LOCAL NYC ROUNDUP

Tips for Adopting a Shelter Animal

If you're thinking of adopting a cat, dog, bunny or bird for the holidays - and there are thousands of needy animals that need homes - there are many things to consider before making the commitment.  NYC's Animal Care & Control Shelters is offering tips for the prospective adopter.  Go to www.nycacc.org

Boarding for the Holidays

If you're traveling for the holidays but have to leave your pet behind, my Critters story today in the NY Daily News gave ideas for last-minute boarding options. In addition to dog boarding and cat sitting, options also abound for bunnies, reptiles, and birds.  

Bird owners can find private bird sitter through the Long Island Parrot Society at www.liparrotsociety.org.

It's a jungle at Birdcamp, on E. 53rd St., where birds, from finches to macaws, are each housed in an appropriate-sized cage, and receive daily rations of fresh bottled water, fruit and veggies. (www.birdcamp.com).

If you have to leave your bunny behind, check with your local Rabbit House Society chapter for names of volunteers and veterinarians that board rabbits (www.rabbit.org). Reptile owners can contact Sean Casey Animal Rescue (www.scarny.org) for boarding. Holidays guests already include two sulcatta tortoises, a leopard turtle and a box turtle.  

NYC ROUNDUP

Holiday Pet Photos

Check out the photo gallery from the NY Daily News

NYC ROUNDUP

109th Annual Christmas Bird Count 

The city is for the birds. Nearly 8,000 birds of 57 species were spotted by binocular-toting bird lovers in 2008 - the highest number in four years.  This year, bird lovers from amateur to serious hobbyists from across the city can help tally the bird count, which will be added to a national database.  The tradition was started in 1990 by ornithologist Frank Chapman. The Central Park Bird Count will take place on Sunday, December 14, at 8 a.m., at the Pump Station at 85th and Fifth Ave.  For info on other boroughs go to www.nycaudubon.org/home.

A Hawk and Its Prey Visit a NY Times reporter's Harlem Home.

Humane Education in NYC Schools

On Tuesday, Dec. 16, New York City Council is expected to vote on

Resolution 497, which is aimed at increasing compliance with New York's Humane Education law.  The League of Humane Voters of NYC is expected to hold a press conference in the steps of City Hall on Tuesday at noon, and is urging the public to come and speak out in favor of the important legislation.  The law, enacted in 1947, has not been enforced, and few educators even know about it.  Here's a story I wrote last year on humane education.  For info go to www.humanenyc.org.

ASPCA Mobile CSI Unit Turns One

The state-of-the-art “Mobile Animal Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Unit” was hard at work yesterday, assisting in the raid of a major dogfighting operation in North Carolina.

The raid of “Wildside Kennels,” an alleged dogfighting operation in McGrady, N.C., was a result of a three-year investigation by the Wilkes County Sheriff’s Office, the Wilkes County Animal Control Agency, and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).  Authorities found suspected dogfighting paraphernalia on the property and seized 127 dogs—several of which had scars consistent with dogfighting. Dr. Melinda Merck, senior director of Veterinary Forensics for the ASPCA, was on-site with the Mobile Unit, assisting with the raid and evaluating the seized dogs for evidence of animal fighting.

A man alleged to be the owner of the operation, and two others, were arrested. Each was charged with one count of felony dogfighting and baiting; additional charges are pending. The alleged owner of the operation, Ed Faron, was previously convicted of dogfighting and is reportedly one of the 10 most influential figures in the underground dogfighting circuit. It is a felony in North Carolina to possess a dog for the purpose of dogfighting. Those involved in illegal dogfighting can receive up to 10 months in prison.

The ASPCA’s Mobile Animal CSI Unit – a specially-designed vehicle outfitted with state-of-the-art forensics tools as well as medical equipment tailored for animal patients – was unveiled exactly one year ago today on December 11, 2007 in New York City. A “forensics first,” the “Animal CSI” vehicle was created to significantly advance the prosecution of animal cruelty and help strengthen cases against offenders by incorporating the emerging field of veterinary forensics in crime scene investigations. Yesterday’s raid also took place on the one-year anniversary of Michael Vick’s sentencing in a federal dogfighting case.

Santa Helps Adopted Pups at Rockefeller Center

Gaggles of adoptable pups from NYC Animal Care & Control Shelter got a nod from Santa yesterday, as they posed together at Rockefeller Center.   The event kicked off a month-long awareness and holiday drive for NYC's neediest animals.  For information on how to pitch in to help the city's shelter animals go to animalalliancenyc.org or nycacc.org.  

NATIONAL ROUNDUP

Santa Clawed

A New Jersey Santa is nursing his wounds after getting attacked by a bobcat at a fundraiser.  More

Woman Busted for Hiding Monkey Under Shirt on Flight

A Washington woman who was hiding a monkey under her shirt on a flight from Thailand was busted for violating wildlife laws.  More