Let's start the year out right - here are some stories I have been reading that make me go, "Hmmm..." I wonder if they won't do the same for you.
First, in our local paper, the American Red Cross posted a notice that they are offering CPR classes for pet owners. I don't see much on the local American Red Cross website, but, here's what they say,"Those who take the class will learn how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation and administer first aid to their pets." 
Next in line is this great article over at Cool Dog Hall of Fame. Titled, "Hotels go to the dogs," it talks about the adverse effects of allowing pets in hotels. I have to admit I am guilty of not thinking about this - the point of the article is that people with allergies are against having pets in hotels. While I can understand, to a point (some of my friends are allergic to Wabby Wibby), I think hotels should just learn to clean better. Or, have a floor or wing that is pet-friendly. That's what they do for smoking. What's the difference? (the article, quoting from an article in the Ventura County Star, mentions that it's impossible to get rid of pet dander - to which I heartily disagree - but, I do agree it's not easy.)
On we go to our next article...one that has me sputtering in my chair because this is MY idea! I TOLD a hundred people that this idea was a winner. Congrats to Critter Company for actually following through on it. "Dog ear piercings provide much bling," the article in the Shreveport Times cries. The story is about giving dogs earrings, pierced earrings. Now... I'm not sure it's a good idea. I never did follow up on it... but, it sounds harmless. What do you think? Would you do it to your dog?
The last bit of information I want to share today is from The Register-Herald, in Beckley, W. VA. This article, "These days, pets are being treated more like children," gets it right - in most respects. It talks about the commitment pet people have to the health of their pets. As if the pets were children.
What's wrong with that? We pet people love our pets, just like we love the other members of our family. This article says, "Take a close look at the advertising strategy and you'll soon discover that the basic pitch is always to the owner's heart - not his wallet."
Again, what's wrong with that? Since, as they note, "...the number of pet-owner households has increased by more than 10 million," it follows that those pet-owners would want the best nutrition for their pets. I will give them some slack. Here's a paragraph close to the end of the article, "Is this weird? Maybe, but when you consider how much companionship pets can provide and combine it with the idea that as we take better care of ourselves, we're more willing to do the same for Rover. Those things that used to seem like nonsense begin to make sense, after all."
Sometimes the truth is just that - true.
Give your pet a hug, today. And every day.
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