The Petcast

What is the only Nevada lake to empty into the sea? Know it? E-mail TheStripPodcast [at] aol.com or call 702-997-3300 by June 29. If we draw your correct answer, you pick from the prize list at TheStripPodcast.Com.

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Open & Banter: Start to 24ish
Ken Ehrlich Part I: 24-58ish
Trivia/Poll/Letters: 59-59ish
Ken Ehrlich Part II: 1:00-1:25ish
TSTToTW: 1:25-end

This week on The Strip: It was by far the most hyped – and to our minds the best – new show to hit the Vegas Strip this year. Celine Dion has returned to the Colosseum at Caesars Palace in a self-titled production that is radically different and vastly better than “…A New Day,” her groundbreaking first run in the vaunted showroom. Legendary TV producer Ken Ehrlich directed “Celine,” so we spoke to him at length about the intriguing decisions he, the singer and her husband made. Why didn’t they include the closing-number special effects when they opened in March? Was it weird to rehearse Celine’s duet with herself? What’s the story behind that French song that makes her cry every night? Why wasn’t the songstress at the United Center when Ehrlich produced two star-studded final-week shows for Oprah Winfrey last month?

In Banter: Anniversaries! Wynn Politics! TV Show Tapings! Maloofs! Monorail Bashing! and more.

Every day when I walk Black, Jack and Aces, this bird comes out of the tree next door and swoops down to frighten my dogs. Birdy Bin Laden never actually pecks the dogs, but he does follow us for about a block on our walks. I have no idea why. They have nothing to do with American foreign policy regarding Israel. Heck, they're (I think legal) Mexicans. They're innocent. Visit the podcasts TheStripPodcast.Com or ThePetcast.com or read the blog VegasHappensHere.Com.

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After all these years of considering it, Steve adds a new member of his family. Hear the exciting story of how he and Miles came to rescue this 8-pound Chihuahua they've named Aces. The original Petcaster, Emily, joins Steve for this discussion, which includes some questions and answers and plenty of discussion of how Black and Jack, the original Smith-Friesses, are faring.

Plus, Emily suggested we get Aces a Puppia harness and Steve reminds listeners to buy "Some We Love, Some We Hate, Some We Eat" by Hal Herzog in advance of the next interview with Herzog coming in January.

Web: ThePetcast.Com

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No. 282: The Author of 2010’s Most Fascinating Book On Pets

The way we navigate our relationships with our pets and other animals has fascinated researchers for centuries. Why is one species a member of our family and another our dinner? Western Carolina University psychology professor Hal Herzog sought to answer these age-old questions in an absolutely brilliant and extremely readable new book, “Some we Love, Some We Hate, Some We Eat: Why It’s So Hard To Think Straight About Animals.”

Plus, Steve’s life partner Miles makes his Petcast debut as the guest host and we get new insight into Steve’s pet home life. Also, should Michael Vick get a puppy and is it news that Barack Obama picks up after Bo?

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Very often, being pet-friendly doesn’t mean being eco-friendly. But that doesn’t have to be the case. Four years ago, Barbara Savidge and Gina Quiroga formed Olive Green Goods For Modern Dogs, a company devoted to creating natural and organic products for use by animals. They’ve got 10 products so far including cookies, blankets and poop bags made from natural materials. Barbara Savidge is on the line to talk about the company and various ways people can save the earth and be good to their pets.

Plus, guest host Cindi Moon Reed discusses at length her amazing long-form cover piece for Vegas Seven magazine about Bobby Berosini, who became synonymous fairly or not with animal abuse in entertainment. The case also powered the national reputation of a relatively new animal-rights group called PETA.

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A few weeks ago, the South Florida Sun Sentinel reported that Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control was reopening its late-night dropoff for unwanted or lost pets. It had been closed for two months because of a disease outbreak, but we were trying to understand how the whole late-night dropoff thing worked to begin with. Joining us today to explain and discuss her line of work is Dianne Sauve, director of Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control.

Plus, thanks to Vegas Seven editor and writer Cindi Moon Reed for co-hosting. Cindi talks about her experiences doing Doga, or dog Yoga, and the Petcasters chat about a case of an old woman whose dog was returned thanks to a micro chip.

See iTunes or ThePetcast.Com for the re-issue of show No. 72, about doga!

Reissue from 4/2007

Yoga instructor Brenda Bryan of Bellevue, Washington, explains her doggie yoga class, created for the Seattle Humane Society to encourage people to do stuff with their animals. Plus, Emily tells all about her and Archie's eventful recent three-day dog agility trial competition. Later, Emily explains how she and Archie once one a -- get this! -- dog dancing contest!

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[See links to stories discussed on this show via ThePetcast.Com]

Earlier this month, Missouri voters narrowly approved Prop B, a measure that puts some significant new restrictions on dog breeders in a state that has long been a puppy mill capital of the United States. It wasn’t a landslide, but it did make it through and that’s largely because of years of work by attorney Barbara Schmitz, the Missouri director of the Humane Society of the United States. She served as campaign director for Prop B, but she also helped convince voters to bar cockfighting 12 years ago. The cause even made it onto The Daily Show.

Plus, the Petcasters mull the American who stole 299 stuffed birds from a London museum, a Reno, Nev., case of animal hoarding and a claim that bird-feeding is the second most popular hobby in America.

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Mary O’Connor-Shaver, a businesswoman from Lima, Ohio, has made it her mission to end the wholesale auctioning of dogs bred in puppy mills in her state. She joins Steve and guest host Amy Turner to discuss her efforts to get this matter more public attention and before the voters of the Buckeye State.

The Petcasters discuss a new study explaining why it is that cats drink more neatly than dogs, Las Vegas Weekly piece about casino mogul Steve Wynn’s new vegan zealotry and Shanghai’s new one-dog policy.

(See links to these stories via ThePetcast.Com)

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We take it for granted these days that dogs, cats, birds and other animals make wonderful pets. But how did it come to be that way? How did earlier humans figure out that these creatures could be loving and loyal, good company and partners in various activities? Anthropologist Barbara J. King explains in her latest book, Being With Animals: Why We Are Obsessed With the Furry, Scaly, Feathered Creatures Who Populate Our World. King is chancellor professor of anthropology at the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. King writes the Friday Animal Blog, too.

Plus, the Petcasters chat about the Missouri ballot measure regarding breeding, India urges against owls as pets, Palm Beach County has a nighttime pet drop-off and farm owners worry about the decline in vets who work on large animals.

ORIGINALLY POSTED ON APRIL 30, 2009

When it comes to owls, today’s in the one whooo knows. She is Karla Kinstler, director of the Houston Nature Center in Houston, Minn, where she oversees the Owl Hall of Fame and the International Festival of Owls. She also authors a blog with Alice, a great horned owl, who is a full time resident at the nature center. Plus, Steve discovers -- and is repelled by -- Cesar Milan but is intrigued by Dogtown.

Web: ThePetcast.com

Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

It’s not something many pet owners think much about, but if their animal ever needs surgery, they’re going to need blood transfusions. And where does that blood come from? Other pets. Dr. Beth Davidow, who oversees the Animal Critical Care Emergency Services Blood Bank in Seattle, explains how an animal blood bank works.

Plus, it was National Pit Bull Awareness Day, guest host Jen Prosser is scared of spiders, Reno is home to the world’s longest cat and Missouri voters may change the law regarding dog breeders.

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The loss of a pet can, of course, be a very traumatic experience. In 1989, the college of veterinary medicine at the University of California at Davis came up with a novel idea to help people cope, a pet-loss hotline. Cornell University’s vet school copied that model, and we have two guests here to discuss how it works, Dr. Margaret McEntee, the faculty adviser, and fourth-year vet student Ingrid Rhinehart.

Plus, as it happens, guest host Jennifer Prosser and her husband lost their 19-year-old cat since our last recording.

http://www.vet.cornell.edu/org/petloss/

Web: www.thepetcast.com
E-mail: thepetcast@yahoo.com
Voicemail: 702-997-3300

Five years ago, Americans watched with heartache and horror as thousands of companion animals were abandoned in a drowning city. Karen O'Toole was moved to do more. In her beautifully moving account, Orphans of Katrina: Inside The World’s Biggest Animal Rescue, O'Toole recounts her experiences of rescue and frustration, disillusionment and redemption in the Gulf region

Plus, Emily – remember her? – calls in to provide the update on Archie’s recent health dramas. Amid all that, there’s a new Consumer Reports study about pet insurance. Our guest host for this episode is Jen Prosser.

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More and more these days, pet owners are trying to figure out how to keep things natural for their pets. Scares related to tainted pet food and toys have prompted many to see out more holistic products and ideas, and that’s where our guest comes in. Stacey Turis is the co-owner of a website called PawsforPeace.Com, which provides advise and ideas for folks looking for holistic health information for their animals. They’ve also recently come out with an iPhone app

Plus, guest host Jen Prosser talks all about her turtles and cat life. Desert night lizards have mates and families.

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Dr. Nicholas Dodman writes pet-related columns for the AKC Family Dog, Life Magazine and Martha Stewart’s Body and Soul and has written seven books including “The Dog Who Cried Too Much” and “The Cat Who Cried For Help.” His latest book, “Good Old Dog,” comes out in November, and it deals with the important issues that face people as their dogs grow old. In this interview, Dodman tells the Petcasters about new medicine and

Plus, guest host Amy Turner and Steve banter about the annual pet blessings around St. Francis of Assisi Day and, in Boston, the fire trucks now have oxygen masks for imperiled pets. Also, the U.S. Navy is bombing Guam with frozen mice stuffed with Tylenol to poison brown tree snakes. Really.

Web: ThePetcast.com

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Twitter: @ThePetcast

REISSUE FROM DEC. 2008; DR. DODMAN WILL APPEAR ON SHOW NO. 272, WHICH WILL BE ISSUED ON MONDAY, OCT. 11.

Vet and author Dr. Nicholas Dodman of Tufts School of Veterinary Medicine joins us to discuss his book, “If Only They Could Speak,” which the Wall Street Journal recently named as one of the best pet books of all time. Dr. Dodman and answered questions about the overmedication for animals, how to identify a pet with a form of Alzheimer’s and whether there’s a second-hand smoke risk for animals. Also, poinsettia plants may not be toxic.

Plus, the Petcasters mull holiday-season concerns about pets and told stories of pets eating wild.

Animal welfare organizations are financially stressed enough, and every little bit helps. That’s where organizations like Linens for Animals steps in. Since 2006, Lori Birdsong and her husband have been collecting and donating more than 2 million pounds in blankets and other linens to shelters, rescue organizations and pet owners who have adopted abandoned animals. It’s another innovative way to help out.

Plus, guest host Amy updates us on her pet life – including teaching Lola tricks that you can see on YouTube. Also, convicted animal killer Michael Vick is back at the helm for the Eagles and President Obama’s new Chief of Staff is a crazy cat guy.

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E-mail: thepetcast@yahoo.com
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From Aug. 28-Sept. 1, Emily, Archie and Steve drove 2,100 miles from Nevada to Michigan to deliver Emily and Archie to Ann Arbor for a prestigious eight-month academic fellowship in journalism at the University of Michigan. It was a wonderful trip, full of cool sights and lots of interesting pet experiences. (We didn't even mention the dog park we found in Salt Lake City!) Archie had a traumatic health week prior to the trip, so there was much nervousness. It was all amazing. Hear us recap it en route to the airport as Steve returned to Las Vegas on Sept 1.

Also, keep watch on Steve's blog, VegasHappensHere.Com, for links to the Flickr set of photos.

Web: ThePetcast.Com

Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

We read about animals taking up unusual hobbies all the time, but usually those activities don’t tug at the heartstrings quite like the special skill of Ricochet. Ricochet is a SURFice dog. Yes, we said SURFice, not service. Her owner, Judy Fridono, joins the Petcasters to explain. Fridono is the founder and executive director of puppy prodigies, a non profit organization that trains service dogs for people with disabilities.

Plus, Amy talks birds and Steve raises a news item in which a dog chews off a man’s diseased toe while he was passed out drunk. Also, seven puppies died in a cargo hold from Tulsa to Chicago on American Airlines.

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E-mail: thepetcast@yahoo.com
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Co-host Emily Richmond begins a prestigious fellowship at the University of Michigan in early September, so this is her final episode in the Petcast studio until sometime next month. She vows to call in from time to time and both Petcasters will be recording and reporting from their road trip from Vegas to deliver Emily to Michigan, but in honor of this Steve corralled a quartet of special call-in guests to wish Emily well.

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E-mail: thepetcast@yahoo.com
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Each year, a half-million dogs and cats wind up in shelters when their owners die without making arrangements for their pets’ care. Attorney Chris Jones of Trusted Pet Partners joins the Petcasters to provide some steps you can take to make sure your animals is protected even when you’re no longer there to do it yourself.

Plus, Emily winds down in Vegas and Emily gets bossy with American Airlines over boarding with Archie.

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E-mail: thepetcast@yahoo.com
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Several months ago, bartering was a hot topic in the news when a candidate for the U.S. Senate suggested it was a way to reduce health care costs. That suggestion actually helped sink her candidacy, but it is actually true that people barter for all sorts of services, including veterinary care. Joining the Petcasters to explain how bartering works in the 21st century and how pet owners can take advantage is Alan Zimmelman, executive vice president for the nation’s largest bartering exchange known as Itex

Plus, more chatter about Emily’s big upcoming change!

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One of the most fascinating topics in animal research -- and a growing field – is the relationship people develop with animals. Joining the Petcasters is Dr. Alan Beck, one of the nation’s leading experts on the subject, as well as an author, researcher and professor. Beck is the Center for the Human-Animal Bond at Purdue University’s School of Veterinary Medicine.

Plus, Steve rushes Black to the vet for an eye problem and then, as usual, had a complaint.

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Web: www.thepetcast.com

E-mail: thepetcast@yahoo.com

Voicemail: 702-997-3300

When it comes to pet publications, Dog Fancy magazine represents the gold standard. It’s the world’s most widely read dog magazine and today’s guest is its new editor. Ernie Slone is also an expert dog handler, pet therapy volunteer and officer with the Cairn Terrier Club of Southern California. Slone referenced Pilots N Paws, a group that transports dogs all over the country.

Plus, the Petcasters bantered about an amazing story from Dog Fancy about the $1 million winner of a cutest dog competition who gave the money away. And Sherry V wrote in again to show us her cats and tell us about their unusual names. Emily found a Veterinary Pet Insurance’s unusual names report.

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E-mail: thepetcast@yahoo.com
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(originally posted 8/31/2006)

Mario Garza, owner of Stuffonmycat.com , talks about his hilarious site where folks pass along pictures on cats with stuff on it.

Plus, Emily talks about her car crash en route to a blind date and how the first thought she had was that it was good that Archie wasn't there. And a listener has a female dog that likes to hump. Why?!?

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Keegan-Michael Key knows funny. He’s a comic and actor who spent six seasons on Mad TV and has also appeared on hilarious shows such as Reno 911. That makes him perfectly qualified for his current gig as host of “The Planet’s Funniest Animals” on Animal Planet. During the discussion, Emily names her favorite pet videos, the Good Night Sweetheart to Puppies and the Standing Cat. Here’s list of top animal videos on YouTube and Keegan recommended the Fancy Catz video on Second City’s YouTube channel.

Steve’s experience covering World Series of Poker leads him to a pet-related poker nickname for Emily and Emily celebrated Archie’s birthday by getting nervous about the 9-year-old’s middle age. She also checked on something recently in “Speaking For Spot,” the book by Dr. Nancy Kaye, guest on Petcast No. 201.

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When it comes to the protecting the legacy of America’s Western frontier, wild horses are too often forgotten. Many herds face lives of abuse, neglect and slaughter as a result. But there was some good news recently thanks in part to Lifesavers Wild Horse Rescue of Lancaster, Calif., which recently negotiated a successful deal with the U.S. government to save 169 wild horses that were scheduled to be sold at auction. Wild Horse Rescue board member Stephanie Hoefener joined the Petcasters to explain.

Emily follows up on the AnimalOff product that Steve referenced on No. 257.5 that they sell on late night TV and Steve questions the claims in a new Purina commercial. Also, Emily ponders what sort of seatbelts to have for our big drive across at the end of August.

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Freelance writer Jason Cochran took a novel approach to the age-old dog-v-cat debate, this time focusing entirely on which costs more money. Cochran did his report for WalletPop.Com and is also a widely published freelancer writer and regular commentator on TV and radio

Plus, Emily takes Archie in for his teeth checkup and had great news, but she also just learned what it’s like to GET advice from nosy fellow pet owners. And the photo of Black and Jack bathing in 110-degree sunlight.

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There are special challenges that come with caring for a disabled pet but there can be special joys as well. Barbara Techel knows this especially well and has written extensively about her life with Frankie, a daschund partially paralyzed after a spinal injury. She’s the author of several books and runs the website JoyfulPaws.Com. Frankie’s wheelchair, incidentally, came from Eddie’s Wheels in Shelbourne, Mass., and the owner was a guest on Petcast No. 142. That show was reissued in the Petcast feed.

Plus, Steve does not confront a guy who had left his dog in a van in 100+-degree weather at an Arby’s. And Emily cites her favorite book, “The Cat Who Came For Christmas,” in a discussion of why airlines only permit two pets in coach on airplanes.

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Leslie Grinnell, co-owner with her husband Eddie of Eddie's Wheels (http://www.eddieswheels.com), joins Emily and Steve by phone from Shelbourne Falls, Mass., to explain the origin of their business creating custom carts for mobility-disabled pets. The Grinnells found the company after their Doberman named Buddha lost use of her hind legs and Eddie figures out a solution.

Also, the duo is joined by Mayor Scott Mangold of Powell, Wyo., whose council passed a new law dictating the number of rabbits.

(Originally posted 4/4/08)

Edie Jarolim is a prolific travel writer who led a dogless life until 2004 when a small terrier mix named Frankie entered her life. Clueless about dogs in general and Frankie in particular, Jarolim put her research skills to use to learn about all things canine. She lives in Tucson, Arizona, where she is the Pet Travel Correspondent for KVOA TV and blogs at http://willmydoghateme.com. She’s also the author of “Am I boring My Dog?”

Plus, Animal Planet is about to air a series on animal hoarding called “Confessions: Animal Hoarding, Emily gets a tranquilizer for Archie for July 4 and occasional guest host John Katsilometes is still doing the vegan thing.

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For soldiers serving in our military, deploying overseas often means having to find a new home for a loyal pet. Linda Spurlin-Dominik is helping to change that, with an innovative approach that focuses on keeping companion animals safe and sound until their loved ones come home. She is founder, president and CEO of Guardian Angles for Soldier’s Pet, and joins us from her home in Texas.

Plus, the Petcasters plan a cross-country drive and Emily refers to all the nifty car-related equipment to make travels with Archie better and a letter writer addresses Emily’s problems with the film 8 Below.

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When it comes to canine IQ’s, it’s hard to find a breed that scores higher than the border collie. But with that intelligence comes a high-energy package that requires special handling. Sheepdog expert and trainer Joyce Geier, who served as an educational consultant for the new Hallmark Channel film “You Lucky Dog” starring Natasha Henstridge and Harry Hamlin, about a border collie that helps to bring together a family.
Also, the Petcasters discuss and debate a controversial Slate piece on the serial deaths of pet bunnies at the hands of a family dog.

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Erick Wolf is chief executive of Innolytics, which is helping to lead the way in contraceptive research that could have important implications for helping to control two key animal populations – pigeons and feral cat colonies. The company was recently awarded a prestigious challenge grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to help further their work.

Plus, the Petcasters ponder their big road trip at the end of August to Michigan, including some cool gizmos Emily is considering getting to keep Archie cool, calm and collected.

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When it comes to solving crimes against animals, today’s guest is the sleuth you want on the case. Dr. Melinda Merck is one of the nation’s pioneering veterinarians, and senior director of veterinary forensics of the ASPCA’s anti-cruelty team. She’s an old friend of the Petcast, and we’re pleased to have her back to talk about a new innovation that uses 21st century technology including DNA testing to help investigate and prosecute dog fighting.

Plus, the Petcasters confirm Christine Dorchak’s claim that greyhounds are the only dog referenced in the Bible and discuss an Iranian fatwa versus dogs. Also, Emily still doesn’t get snakes as pets.

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Animal forensic investigation pioneer Dr. Melinda Merck, who chatted with Emily and guest host John, chats with Steve at the ASCPA headquarters in mid-December about the $220,000 van is dubbed the Mobile Animal CSI unit. Steve, in NYC on family business, quizzed Dr. Merck about the first specially equipped vehicle for an investigator to take to process animal-related evidence at a crime scene. Dr. Merck will use it in her work in the Atlanta area. Also, why are Steve’s dogs afraid of the bathroom?

Web: www.thepetcast.com
E-mail: thepetcast@yahoo.com
Voicemail: 702-997-3300

Dr. Melinda Merck,
one of the nation's pioneering forensic veterinarians,
discusses the emerging field of using information
about cruelty and attacks on animals to solve
violent crimes. Merck, based in Atlanta, has a
new book out called "Veterinary
Forensics: Animal Cruelty Investigations"
and is co-founder and vice president for Georgia
Legal Professions For Animals, an association
of professionals who facilitate the education
of state prosecutors, judges and law enforcement
on veterinary forensics. The Hoarding Consortium,
which Dr. Merck discusses, is here .
Plus, guest host John Katsilometes relates childhood
memories of his father's vet practice in southeastern
Idaho, including an emergency call to save an
owl.

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Web: www.thepetcast.com

E-mail: thepetcast@yahoo.com

Voicemail: 702-997-3300

Dog racing is losing favor in the United States, in part
because of increased awareness about inherent cruelties in the sport, and
mistreatment of animals at many of the nation’s tracks. Leading the way in
advocacy is Greyhound 2K USA, a nonprofit coalition that recently helped to
bring about an end to dog racing in Massachusetts. Christine Dorchak is
president and general counsel of Greyhound 2K USA, and she joins us from her
home in the Bay State.

Plus, guest host John Katsilometes announces his plan to go
vegan this summer for a blog series and Emily discusses Archie’s recent weight
loss. Also, there’s a guy near Emily and John’s office who scares people with a
lizard.

Web: www.thepetcast.com

E-mail: thepetcast@yahoo.com

Voicemail: 702-997-3300

Amanda Fortino has done everything from dressing up as a cow
in Washington DC to hand out soy hot chocolate at President Obama’s
inauguration to stripping down to her to her underwear to protest fur. In fact,
when it comes to fighting animal injustices, it seems there isn’t much she
isn’t willing to do. Fortino is a campaign coordinator for the People for the
Ethical Treatment of Animals and joins us today to talk about an important new
initiative to protect our furry friends from the summer heat.

Plus, Steve learned the difference between dog and cat food
and Emily tells of a sparrow hawk with a nest outside her house that has been
grabbing hair chunks from a neighbor’s dog’s mane. And the Petcasters continue
to ponder the prospects of their Great American Road Trip.

Site: ThePetcast.Com
Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Voicemail: 702-997-3300
Twitter: @ThePetcast

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Las Vegas is known for its beautiful creatures, and we’re
not just talking about its showgirls. Joining the Petcasters this episode is
Robin Haeffner-Matos , the wildlife manager
at the Flamingo Las Vegas where visitors can behold exotic fish, turtles and
birds including, of course, pink flamingos. The attraction is free and every
day there are attendants who do feedings and answer questions daily at 8:30
a.m. and 11 a.m.

Plus, a funny (to Steve) comic reminded Steve of our odd
wallaby episode, but that has Emily remembering the interview with the guy who
makes music via bunny noises.

Site: ThePetcast.Com

Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

Voicemail: 702-997-3300

Twitter: @ThePetcast

When it comes to planning a cross-country trip, there’s no
better resource than the American Automobile Association. Making that journey
with your pets can be made even easier with the AAA’s newest edition of the Pet
Book. Spokesman Michael Geeser joins the Petcasters to discuss the do’s and
don’ts of summer travel and to provide the story behind the nearly 800-page
tome, which you can buy online or, if you’re a member, at a discount at your
nearby AAA office.

Plus, the Petcasters discuss the importance of the dog in
the last frame of Lost and whether it was the same dog. Also, Emily saw the
film 8 Below and Steve noticed something about HBO’s Real Sports report on an
Iditarod champ.

Site: ThePetcast.Com

Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

Voicemail: 702-997-3300

Twitter: @ThePetcast

As we celebrate our 250 th episode of the Petcast,
your hosts are feeling very pleased with themselves for the successful rescue
effort of a cat in Emily’s neighborhood. In the studio for this big episode is
none other than Caesar, formerly known as the Cat who Stalked Archie, along
with his new – and smitten – owner, Las Vegas resident Dawn Christensen.

Plus, Steve mocks some of the odd and silly
things he read in a recent issue of Dog Fancy.

​ Site: ThePetcast.Com
Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

Voicemail: 702-997-3300

Twitter: @ThePetcast

There’s an important network of volunteers out there who play a critical role in preparing service animals for their important work. Puppy raiser Kelly Haugh joined the Petcasters in the studio with Sully, a 5-month-old Golden Retriever/Black Labrador mix on behalf of a chapter of Canine Companions For Independence.

Plus, Steve blogged some cool Vegas-themed dogs that were sold at a shelter fundraiser and Emily reveals that she’s landed a major journalistic fellowship.

Site: ThePetcast.Com
Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Voicemail: 702-997-3300
Twitter: @ThePetcast

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One of our great friends, blogger Christie Keith, just
welcomed a new puppy, Wally, into her household. Keith, who also writes the
Your Whole Pet column for SFGate.Com, explains why she chose a Scottish
Deerhound and discusses her column about myths about puppies.

In Banter, more of the dramatic pet background – bear
traps!?! -- of new guest host, Jen Prosser.

Site: ThePetcast.Com

Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

Voicemail: 702-997-3300

Twitter: @ThePetcast

​​

Each spring, the nation’s already crowded animal shelters
brace for the phenomenon known as kitten season, an influx of unwanted felines
caused by a troubling mix of biological science and unfortunate, irresponsible
human behavior. Gail Buchwald, the senior vice president of the Adoption Center
for the ASCPA explains what kitten season is and why it happens. (Here’s the
ASCPA’s 10 things you can do to help a stray cat.)

In Banter, our new guest host, Jen Prosser, explains why she
doesn’t consider herself her pets’ owners.

Site: ThePetcast.Com

Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

Voicemail: 702-997-3300

Twitter: @ThePetcast

When today’s guest wrote an essay for the New England
Journal of Medicine about a nursing home cat’s habit of showing up when
patients were nearing death, he never expected it would lead to a book tour.
Dr. David Dosa is a geriatrician and an assistant professor of medicine at
Brown University in Rhode Island, and he joined the Petcasters to discuss his
memoir, “Making Rounds With Oscar: The Extraordinary Gift of An Ordinary Cat.”

Plus, Vegas journalist Jennifer Prosser, editor of Where Las
Vegas, describes her extensive pet family -- turtles, cats and fish, oh my! -- in her first episode substituting for Steve.
And after several tries with Steve and Dayvid, Emily finally finds a
sympathetic ear with Jen on her on-going complaint about JetBlue’s pet policy.

Site: ThePetcast.Com

Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

Voicemail: 702-997-3300

Twitter: @ThePetcast

It’s always difficult when a pet dies, but being prepared
can make the grieving process more bearable, especially for the younger members
of the family. Today’s guest, author Bill Cochran, has written a wonderful
children’s book, “The Forever Dog,” on that tough topic, to help kids
understand that happy memories and beloved pets are always with us.

In Banter, Emily and guest host Dayvid Figler discuss some
great viral pet-related videos (i.e. dog-hates-birthday-song and standing-cat)
and Emily told all about a dancing-with-your-dog story that is not to be
missed. Also, Emily has some, uh, thoughts about English bulldogs. Eek.

Web: ThePetcast.Com

Phone: 702-997-3300

E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

Twitter: @ThePetcast

For some pet owners, the high cost of veterinary care is
forcing some tough choices. In some cases, people are opting for euthanasia
over treatment or abandoning their pets at shelters or the vet’s office.
Fortunately, the American Animal Hospital Association has set up a program to
provide financial assistance for these kinds of situations. Today’s guest,
Tamara Fox, is the coordinator of the associations’ Helping Pets Fund.

Plus, Emily and guest host Dayvid Figler debate airline pet
policies.

Web: ThePetcast.Com

Phone: 702-997-3300

E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

Twitter: @ThePetcast

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An April 4 New York Times Magazine piece examined the science and the
controversy surrounding the long-wondered question of whether homosexuality
exists in lower species. One expert quoted in the piece was Dr. Marlene Zuk, a
biology professor at the University of California at Riverside, author of
“Sexual Selections: What We Can and Can’t Learn About Sex From Animals.” Dr.
Zuk joins the Petcasters to discuss.

Plus, Emily discusses her niece’s miserable visit to Sea World.

Web: ThePetcast.Com

Twitter: @ThePetcast

Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

Phone: 702-997-3300

Dr. Patricia McConnell is something of a renaissance woman when it comes to animal affairs – she’s a blogger, public radio star and certified animal behaviorist. McConnell is author of “The Puppy Primer,” a newly updated guide for dog owners who want to start out on the right paw. The former host of NPR’s Calling All Pets discusses biting dogs, misunderstandings about the notion of dominance and much more. McConnell’s blog is The Other End Of The Leash.

Plus, Emily and Steve rap about the great Petcast triumph regarding Caesar the Cat!

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Twitter: @ThePetcast
Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Phone: 702-997-3300

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Our guest failed to call in but the Petcasters had quite a
lot to catch up on, including an important update on the orange tabby hanging
around Emily’s home. The discussion led to a number of interesting ethical
questions. Also, we reveal for the first time – believe it or not – the story
of how Emily named Archie. Also, Emily wrote about Calamity Jane from a
previous show for PawNation.Com.

Web: ThePetcast.Com

Phone: 702-997-3300

E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

Twitter: @ThePetcast

Guest host John Katsilometes of the Las Vegas Sun isn’t just a terrific and witty writer and fill-in for Steve, he’s also the son of a retired veterinarian in Pocatello, Idaho. Dr. George Katsilometes joins the Petcasters to tell some terrific tales of their life in animals and explains how veterinary medicine has changed through the decades. He also clarifies some tall tales Kats Jr has been telling all these years.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Phone: 702-997-3300
E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

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What the Humane Society of the United States set out to find
the nation’s most heroic canine, a three-legged rescue dog named Calamity Jane
quickly rose to the top of the list. This brave Golden Retriever, which had recently
been shot and left to die, scared off armed robbers holding neighbors hostage,
potentially saving lives of several adults and two children. She was recently
chosen as the People’s Hero by online voters and was runner up for Dog of
Valor. Shar P auley of Aledo, Texas, joined the Petcasters to tell the amazing
tale.

Plus, a horrific fire at an animal sanctuary in Las Vegas
killed dozens of birds.

Web: ThePetcast.Com

Phone: 702-997-3300

E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

Twitter: @ThePetcast

A growing number of dog owners are partaking in the hobby of geo-caching, the act of going on treasure hunts using GPS coordinates. Wendy Drennan, the CEO of the Paws Awhile Online Community. The site has a subsite regarding Dogcaching.

Plus, John Katsilometes of the Las Vegas Sun sits in for Steve and discusses his new cats and Emily has some good news regarding Archie.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Phone: 702-997-3300
E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

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The tragic death of a trainer at Sea World Orlando has
renewed debate over keeping marine mammals in captivity. The advocacy group In
Defense of Animals say it’s time to stop capturing and breeding dolphins and
orcas only to condemn them to a dismal life performing in a concrete tank. The
Petcasters welcome Dr. Elliot Katz, the group’s founder, to discuss this
important topic.

Web: ThePetcast.Com

Phone: 702-997-3300

E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

Twitter: @ThePetcast

If you’ve been lucky enough to see a hummingbird in action,
you know what amazing creatures they are. Attracting them to your backyard may
be easier than you think but please keep in mind they should be considered
welcome visitors and not pets. Dr. Ross Hawkings, the executive director of the
Hummingbird Society, joins the Petcasters to talk about the birds, how to take
care of them and concerns about a certain breed impacted by the tsunami caused
by the Brazilian earthquake.

Plus, Steve, Black and Jack take a road trip to Arizona and
the Petcasters are appalled by an Arkansas story where a man’s family had his
2-year-old dog put down and buried with him after he died because that was his
dying wish.

Web: ThePetcast.Com

Phone: 702-997-3300

E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

Twitter: @ThePetcast

If you look out at the world and wonder what you can do to make a difference, consider the example of the Pet Project Midwest. Born of local concerns about animal welfare in Iowa, is now a thriving non-profit that offers an emergency alert system for lost and found animals and supply pantry to help financially struggling families keep their pets. Founder Becky Mollenkamp joins the Petcasters to explain.

Plus, Emily gets a terrifying call regarding Archie and Steve's dogs have a tough day at the dentist that left them looking stoned. Also, a shout-out to listener Tracy who introduced herself at Porchlight SF n California.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Phone: 702-997-3300
E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

He’s known affectionately as the pigeon guy of North las
Vegas and recently ran afoul of authorities for running what they said was an
unlicensed bird sanctuary. The Petcasters chat with Nephi Oliva of Nevada
Pigeon Control about his plight and why pigeons need protection, too.

Also, the Petcasters commandeered the Wynn Las Vegas
sportsbook to watch the Westminster Dog Show finale when Sadie won and Steve
relates an evidently erroneous understanding of Scottish Terriers. Plus,
there’s an important update on the horrible cat hoarding and abuse case of
FLOCK discussed two years ago.

Phone: 702-997-3300

Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

Site: ThePetcast.Com

Twitter: @ThePetcast

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We’ve all heard incredible tales of animals coming back after
long disappearances, but the recent return of a Canadian cat after a 14 year
absence might set the record. Her owner joins us to share the incredible story.
Ingrid Kerger, welcome to the Petcast!

Plus, kitty dreams at Steve’s house, some thoughts on the
debarking controversy and guest-host John Katsilometes has a cat intruder.

Web: ThePetcast.Com

Email: ThePetcast@aol.com

Twitter: @ThePetcast

Phone: 702-997-3300

When a kitten showed up in an underground Boston train station, commuters began posting cell phone snapshots of their sightings, and urging animal control to catch the wiley feline. But the cat, nicknamed “Kenmore” after the stop on the Green Line, eluded authorities until a few months ago. Here to share Kenmore’s story is Kenmore's new owner Karen Ingram, who actually drives one of the MBTA trains and used to spot Kenmore on her daily route.

Plus, Emily is delighted by Archie's physical progress of Archie and the Petcasters are grateful for a lovely reader letter.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

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Web: ThePetcast.Com

Email: ThePetcast@aol.com

Twitter: @ThePetcast

Phone: 702-997-3300

No one wants to leave their pets
behind when they move, but finding convenient and affordable transportation
options can be tough. Today’s guest is Dean Jutilla, marketing director uShip.Com,
which offers another way of safely getting your pet to its new home. The site
is also a fascinating reflection of modern pet life.

Plus, Steve has fun with pet-related iPhone apps such as the
Screen Cleaner and there’s an update on Archie’s kitty stalker.

No. 230: S-s-snakes In A Box On The Strip
What would it take to convince you to spend 10 days living in an oversized glass box full of venomous snakes set right on the Las Vegas Strip? Today’s guest actually volunteered. And as a result, he’s raising awareness, and dispelling myths, about the human-snake relationship. He is Donald Schultz, a venom expert and host of Animal Planet’s “Wild Recon.” Schultz joined the Petcasters live via phone from the snake house outside O’Sheas Casino, which is co-sponsoring the adventure.

Plus, the Shiba Inu puppycam is back! And, in a related note, you can read Steve's piece from AOLNews.Com on being the first to go inside the snakebox or watch the Petcast video.

http://www.ustream.tv/sfshiba

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Email: ThePetcast@aol.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast
Phone: 702-997-3300

With Steve away, it was an opportunity for Emily to have her mom, Alberta, on the show for the first time without Steve to interject snarky questions or brisket demands. Instead, it’s a mother-and-daughter show about their early life in the Boston suburbs and Alberta’s own animal history. All of this, of course, is our way of give you Emily’s backstory.

Plus, Emily chats with young listeners Hudson and Samuel about their pet turtles.

Web: ThePetcast.com
E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

When it comes to setting the odds, no one knows more than Johnny Avello, director of race and sports operations for Wynn Las Vegas. And this week he’s letting the sportsbook go to the dogs, as joins the Petcasters to name his top picks for the Westminster Kennel Club Show, which runs Feb. 15 and 16 at Madison Square Garden.

Plus, some Petcaster thoughts on Temple Grandin and the HBO film about her, and there's a cat with a cat on its back. No, really!

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Email: ThePetcast@aol.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

The video became a YouTube sensation, a golden lab jumping to attention in California before an earthquake hit. The owner of Sophie, Times-Standard copy editor Jessica Richelderfer of Eureka, Calif., joins Emily to talk about what happened, what it could mean and what it's like to be an Internet phenom.
Plus, Emily flies solo for the first time, providing a brief, relevant monologue about animal alertness in natural disasters and engineer Kaan hops on the mike at the end to talk about his cat, an adopted stray.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

The big game, when fierce – and furry – athletes take to the field is upon us! We are talking about Animal Planet’s Puppy Bowl, of course. Keeping the canine chaos in check along with a menagerie of other furry friends is the official referee of Puppy Bowl XI, Andrew Schechter. The Puppy Bowl airs 3-5 pm ET/PT on Sunday Feb. 7, 2010 and is rerun regularly thereafter.

Plus, Steve is in a poopy mood! Actually, he's in a great mood but he wonders about whether he should look at or away from Black and Jack when the go poop and Emily is excited that a cat she knew way back when still remembers her. Also, some homework for everyone out there: Go read the New York Magazine cover on dogs. The link will be on ThePetcast.com.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

Feral cats in the Chicago area have a friend in Jennifer
Schlueter, program manager for the Treehouse Humane Society serving Cook
County, Illinois. A new law lets people who take care of feral cat colonies
register with animal control and get support in trapping, spaying and releasing
the cats. But the program isn’t without controversy and challenges, as
Schlueter explains to the Petcast.

Emily relates the story of a beagle in her 'hood that doesn't get
walked and guest host John Katsilometes recalls a cat he had that amazingly
returned to an earlier house where he lived in Idaho. Thanks again to John Katsilometes for guest-hosting.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Email: ThePetcast@aol.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

After reading about a horrific case of animal neglect involving a chocolate Lab named Sunbear, Wisconsin resident Anna Nirva resolved to publish a web site in the dog’s memory that would encourage people everywhere to help companion animals in distress because he did not get help. Seven years later, the Sunbear Squad (SunbearSquad.org) helps people set up neighborhood watch groups to keep a caring eye out for animals in trouble, and offers valuable guidance on what to do when trouble arises. Nirva talks to the Petcasters about why such volunteers are needed now more than ever in light of the home foreclosure crisis.

Also, with Steve away, it's time for the return of guest host John Katsilometes, Las Vegas Sun entertainment writer and veterinarian's son. Kats talks about what's new in his pet life since his last guest stint in 2007 (!) and Emily praises the tribute he wrote to his late cat Bonnie. Read that here.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Email: ThePetcast@aol.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

On Jan. 19, Steve Friess (@TheStripPodcast) of Sphere.Com and
VegasHappensHere.Com was the first journalist to go inside the glass
box with dozens of venomous snakes across the street from Caesars
Palace on the Las Vegas Strip where herpetologist Donald Schultz, star
of Animal Planet's WILD RECON, is living from Jan 16-26. This is a
short version of the video assembled from that visit. Go to
VegasHappensHere.Com and search "SNAKES" to find a link to the
Sphere.Com piece. The stunt is for a two-hour Animal Planet show called
"Venom in Vegas," a special of the Wild Recon series.

Hamsters can be delightful and educational pets as long as you understand how best to care for them. Journalist Tim Pratt didn’t get the memo. He bought two hamsters for his kids in November and they died within weeks because Pratt wasn’t briefed on how to live and care for hamsters.

Plus, Emily brings up a recent study from the University of Missouri about who’s a better walking companion, other people or dogs, and she relates a story of why her vet thinks someone tried to break into her house.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Twitter: @ThePetcast.com
Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

After a lengthy process that began when Steve's widowed Aunt Susan found comfort in his dogs during a visit, Aunt Susan has finally adopted a lovely 7-year-old bichon frise. She named him Teddy after her late father's childhood dog. The Petcasters hear about Aunt Susan's experience with the ASCPA in New York City and Emily answers some questions from this first-time canine owner.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

Nowadays, most people think of Neverland Ranch because of the controversy surrounded Michael Jackson in the final years of his life there, but not a lot of people realize that it once boasted the largest and most impressive collection of exotic animals anywhere in the nation. Big Al Scanlon, who worked at the ranch for 15 years, joins the Petcasters to discuss the lives of those animals and the mission of the ranch in its heyday.

Plus, Steve is aggravated by some nonsensical Cesar Millan crap.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

In this kibbitz session, the Petcasters first discuss the ASPCA’s tough decision to euthanize Oreo, an abused dog that physically survived being tossed off a New York apartment building but could not be rehabilitated emotionally. Then Steve tells his horror story of almost adopting a third dog from the Nevada SPCA and the drama the ensued therein. Plus, Steve and Emily follow on No. 221’s interview with Beverly Washburn by considering how “Old Yeller” would’ve been done differently today and Emily explains why she’s lost faith in her doggie dentist.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

In a New Year’s special, Emily has compiled her list of the five biggest stories of 2009. Here’s a hint at her No. 1: Steve spent much of the year promulgating conspiracy theories about this. Plus, Emily talks about the stalking cat in the video she shot and Steve talked about Pebbles, his childhood poodle who took a particular liking to one of his neighbors.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

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When it comes to child stars of the 1950s and 1960s, today’s guest has one of the most memorable in a key role from one of the most iconic dog movies of all time, “Old Yeller.” Today, Beverly Washburn remains a working actress as well as author of the recently released memoir, “Reel Tears.”

Plus, Emily is amused by the Snuggie-for-dogs phenomenon and explains why the foam dog stairs she bought on Overstock.Com have turned out to be a great investment.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

If you’re looking for a way to get more involved with your community with your pet at your side, one of the best ways to do so could be to find a group near you affiliated with the Bellvue, Wash.,-based Delta Society. Marketing director JoAnn Turnbull of the organization explains how pets can help people. According to the DeltaSociety.Org site, the group is “a human-services organization dedicated to improving people's health and well-being. We do this through positive interactions with animals.

Petcast guest host Dayvid Figler sits in for Steve and updates everyone on the status of his dog.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

It's not just the holiday season, it’s also time for final exams for college students across the nation. In Orange, Calif., the Active Minds Club came up with a fun and furry way to alleviate some of their academic stress, they brought in puppies for students to play with in the quad area near the library and main class buildings. One of the project’s organizers, sophomore Jimbo Rozzano, explains the program, called “Furry Friends for Finals.”

Plus, Emily provides a list of very helpful tips for pet safety around holiday time and talks about her visit to the Marine Mammals Center in Sausalito, Calif. (See Episode #41 for an interview with Jim Oswald from the Center.) And Steve, who brought in a pair of awful cute guests to the studio, is surprised that doggie life preservers and dog-sledding in Washington State exist.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

REISSUE FROM 12/18/06

Emily
gives a spooky, hilarious reading of a news story
about sea lions biting humans and then Jim Oswald
of the Marine
Mammals Center in Sausalito, Calif., discusses
that case and more. Plus, we play a clip of David
Letterman cracking wise about a Sea World orca
gone wild and could dolphins be used as emissaries
of nuclear destruction?

Web: ThePetcast.Com
E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

Sea lions and orcas and dolphins, oh my.

REISSUE FROM 12/18/06

Emily
gives a spooky, hilarious reading of a news story
about sea lions biting humans and then Jim Oswald
of the Marine
Mammals Center in Sausalito, Calif., discusses
that case and more. Plus, we play a clip of David
Letterman cracking wise about a Sea World orca
gone wild and could dolphins be used as emissaries
of nuclear destruction?

Web: ThePetcast.Com
E-mail: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

Sea lions and orcas and dolphins, oh my.

What would you do if you found a baby kangaroo? If you’re Christina Cooper, you turn your sweatshirt into a pouch, pick up the joey and begin work as a surrogate mom. Cooper, co-owner of the non-profit Global Wildlife Center near New Orleans, had to after one of the resident kangaroos abandoned her offspring. She explains that and the broader work of the Global Wildlife Center.

Emily read up on medication for Archie and took Speaking For Spot’s Nancy Kaye’s advise and suggested it to her vet. The vet gave it to Emily and she filled it at Walgreens, which entertained Emily quite a bit.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Twitter: @ThePetcast.com
Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

No 218: The USA's Oldest Pet Cemetery

Hartsdale Pet Cemetery owner Ed Martin joins the Petcasters to discuss
the oldest pet resting place in America, some of the more notable
animals and how the whole business works.

Emily discusses a story she did for the Las Vegas Sun about a
fundraiser for retired police dog costs and discusses that Vegas cops
teach their dogs to bark-and-hold, not bite-and-hold. She also related
a story of a police dog that a suspect thought was cute and tried to
steal him, too. Also, we learn about the Zhu Zhu pets, the IT toy for
2009 Xmas season, and FEMA certification for gude dogs.

Web: ThePetcast.Com

Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

Twitter:@ThePetcast

Is elaborate, decorative grooming of dogs some form of abuse? We don't think so, but commenters of Steve's PawNation.Com piece lodged just that accusation against Cat Opson, a California-based groomer who won $2,000 at the SuperZoo 2009 trade show. Opson joined the Petcasters to explain her craft and how much the animals usually love it.

Plus, the Petcasters discuss ways to indicate for emergency personnel that there's are pets inside and Emily explains the difference between turtles and tortoises.

Web: ThePetcast.com
Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

The Petcasters took on SuperZoo 2009 with video commentary, interviews and product demonstrations! See the Pet Tops, the Amazing Treat Machine, The Pink Gourmet, The Port-A-Poo, the remote-control cat toy, the crazy creative grooming competition winners and much more! Don't miss the montage of fun photos at the end, too!

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

The
only subtropical wilderness in the U.S., the Everglades, is being taken
over by non-native former pets, in particular a variety of snakes that
cause eco-system problems. Jenny Novak Tinnell of the Florida Fish and
Wildlife Conservation Commission joins us to discuss an amnesty program
and to explain where all these foreign critters came from.

Plus,
Emily’s dog, Archie, had a bad reaction to a rabies vaccine and now is
suffering a leg problem that could end his agility career. Also, Emily
is Tweeting @ThePetcast!

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Twitter: @ThePetcast
Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

Today's guest is Corey Levitan, a columnist for the Las Vegas Review-Journal who does unusual jobs for his "Fear and Loafing" pieces. This month, he assisted at Heaven Can Wait Animal Sanctuary as they spayed and neutered cats. He came in to describe the experience which touched on some controversial topics, including kitty abortions. Plus, he brought his dog, Sammy, with him to the studio and Sammy wore a digicam on his collar to shoot photos of us!

Steve is now a blogger for PawNation.Com, AOL's pet subsite, but decided -- yet again -- not to adopt a new dog to the home. Emily describes her sister's visit to Cronkite Beach near San Francisco where they saw the Sausalito Wildlife Animal Center folks push sea lions into the sea.

As most pet owners know, a well-trained dog is usually a happier dog. But what happens when owners can't manage the training on their own? That's when today's guest takes over, providing intensive intervention at the Lockwood Canine Training Center in Frazier Park, Calif. Julie Isles, the owner, has more than 25 years experience in the field and has authored a correspondence course used by the nation's largest dog training company.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Twitter: @ThePetcast

Note: This is our first show in our new studio at the Las Vegas Sun's studio, so the audio is a bit uneven.

When 2-year-old mastiff-pitbull mix Sid started picking fights with other dogs, his owner knew there was a problem. And when conventional interventions didn't work, his owner took the unusual and expensive step of sending his dog away for training to a high-end bootcamp for wayward dogs. The owner of that center, Lockwood Canine Training Center in Frazier Park, Calif., will join us on Petcast No. 214, but first Sid's owner, Hunter Hillegas, is our guest.

Plus, Steve relates his travels in the northeast where he covered the possible closure of the nation's first racetrack-plus-casino.

Email: ThePetcast.Com
Site: ThePetcast.com

Founded in 1884, the American Kennel Club is the world’s largest purebred dog registry with more than 5,000 licensed clubs and affiliates. But the AKC has also evolved as a strong advocate for responsible dog ownership. As the organization prepares to mark its 125th anniversary, the AKC continues to broaden its scope and reach. Joining the Petcasters is Lisa Peterson, director of club communications, who has also spend 25 years as a professional breeder and handler of Norwegian elkhounds.

Plus, Steve recalls a story about a house fire from the start of his career that had a significant pet angle and the Petcasters discuss the Bo Obama photo scandal.

ThePetcast@yahoo.com
ThePetcast.com

There are comic strips about animals and then there’s the gold standard. Since 1994, Patrick McDonnell has been delighting readers with the antics and wisdom of Earl, Mooch and all their pals. The “Mutts” comic strip now appears in more than 700 newspapers and 20 countries and its creator has won his industry’s highest honor, Cartoonist of the Year.

Plus, Emily discusses some of the stranger problems with summer haircuts for pets.

Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Site: ThePetcast.Com

Someone once said, "If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog." And to be sure, from Fala to Millie to Buddy to Bo, The Man's best friend is often a four-legged sweetie. Joining us today is Cathy Trost, the director of exhibit development at the Newseum in Washington D.C., which has an informative and entertaining gallery of First Dogs. The Newseum is a museum devoted to media history.

Plus, Steve tells of giving his mom's dog gifts for Mother's Day and Emily issues a warning about how not to hold your leash in the event of emergencies.

Web: ThePetcast.Com
Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com

http://www.newseum.org/news/news.aspx?item=nn_DOGS090422&style=f

No. 208: Pet-Loving Condo-Dwellers Unite!

Today's guest is Maida Genser, founder of Citizens for Pets in Condos Inc., a Florida-based advocacy group seeing to educate the public on the health benefits of animal companionship and about responsible pet ownership. The long-term goal is to increase acceptance of companion animals in common interest ownership communities.

Plus, Steve tells the tale of finding an elderly, blind, obese, heaving lost dog in his neighborhood. See Steve's blog entries about this at VegasHappensHere.Com.

http://thestrippodcast.blogspot.com/search?q=renegade
http://www.petsincondos.org

Web: ThePetcast.Com
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As medical advances are made and more complex treatments for animals become more commonplace, pet owners often find themselves in a quandary as they try to balance their love of their animals with their ability to balance their checkbooks. Whereas the notion of chemotherapy for pets or artificial limbs once were unthinkable, now they’re real options that can prolong and improve the life of dogs and cats, but how do you know when it’s worth it physically, emotionally and financially? With us to discuss this minefield of ethical and practical issues is Dr. Nancy Kay, of Sebastapol, Calif., author of the new book "Speaking For Spot: Be the Advocate Your Dog Needs to Live a Happy, Healthy, Longer Life." Dr. Kay earned her veterinary degree at Cornell and is owner of the Animal Care Center in Rohnert Park, Calif.

Plus, Steve saw the Popovich Comedy Pet Theater in Vegas.

Links to download shows with Steve's sister (#194) and Gregory Popovich (#11) are found on ThePetcast.Com.

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As loyal Petcast listeners know, we love songs about pets. So naturally when we found out about an enterprising crew of canines that had actually taken up songwriting, we knew we had to find out more. Here to enlighten us is Bob Dorman of Mabel Dog productions, and the human talent behind “Dog Tracks: Songs by Dogs.” Find him at DogTracksCD.Com.

Plus, a brief chat about PetAir, the new pet airline concept.

From doggie day spas to prozac for Pekinese with separation anxiety, Americans are spending more time and money than ever making sure their canine companions live happy lives. Today’s guest, author Michael Schaffer, delved deep into the fluffy underbelly of pet industries, and our increasing fascination with, and dependence on, our four-legged friends. The result was “One Nation Under Dog,” which was recently published and is available at bookstores nationwide.

Plus, a discussion of kitten season and the joy of multiple pet ownership.

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Animal shelters nationwide are seeing an increase in surrendered pets, a sad side effect of the ongoing economic crisis. Today’s guest, Everett Croxson, is doing his part to help pets whose owners can no longer care for them because they’ve lost their homes, either to outright foreclosure or a change in financial circumstances. Visit them online at http://forecloseduponpets.org

Plus, some tips on keeping pets safe in the summertime.

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Whether its tips for keeping an indoor cat happy or brokering a peace treaty at the dog park, today’s guest has the answers. Christie Keith is a contributing writer for the San Francisco Chronicle, where she pens the “Your Whole Pet,” column. She is also a contributing editor for Universal Press Syndicate's Pet Connection, and past director of the Pet Care Forum on America Online.

Plus, who would be against banning training dogs for fighting or leaving animals outside tethered for excessive lengths of time? The AKC?

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ThePetcast.Com

There isn’t a person alive who doesn’t see an animal out in public wearing something silly or being carried in the purse of an airheaded celebrity heiress wannabe and hasn’t felt pity for the poor, tortured creature. Well, following in the great tradition of StuffOnMyCat.Com and CatsInSinks.Com, Duncan Birmingham of Los Angeles has created PetsWhoWantToKillThemselves.Com, a blog on which he posts photos of all sorts of probably-suicidal animals. Birmingham, a writer whose screenplay, Swingles, is about to become a movie starring Cameron Diaz, joins us to discuss the website.

Plus, a new CDC study shows that shows pets make people fall a lot.

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Welcome back to the Petcast everyone. You might have heard of Dewey the library cat, the famous orange feline that became world famous just for living his life in a library in Spencer, Iowa. Well, Dewey’s life, which is now the subject of a best-selling memoir and may become a movie starring Meryl Streep – as the librarian, not the cat – is actually less unique than you might think. Our guest today, documentarian Gary Roma, traveled the nation for his 1997 award-winning film Puss in Books: Adventures of a Library Cat and found library cats all over the place. His website, IronFrog.Com, in fact, offers an interactive map that tells visitors what libraries in their states have resident felines. Gary Roma joins us from Chicago to discuss the topic.

Plus, Steve tells the tale of Renegade, the blind, obese, tumorous, heaving, shedding lost dog he found and helped.

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One of the most expensive issues facing owners of even generally healthy pets is their dental care. Nothing sends a shiver up the spine like the vet telling you your animal needs a serious and costly teeth-cleaning. Emily, in fact, is still paying off the $700 bill from having five of Archie’s teeth pulled and she’s since switched to a special kind of treat to maintain his oral health. So what’s the truth behind this issue? How do dogs and cats differ in terms of their dental issues? Joining us to address all of this as well as a listener’s question is Dr. Tony Woodward, a past president of the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association who practices in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Plus, guest host Molly steps in and discusses her pregnancy and the potential issues she may have with her cats and Emily calls in from DC to report on the Newseum's exhibit on presidential pets.

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In 1987, today’s guest, Claudia Presto, met her very first greyhound, and her life would never be the same. A few years later she would give up a successful corporate career on the east coast, sell everything she owned and head west, where, it turned out, there was no shortage of greyhounds in need of her help. Today she is the leader of the Greyhound Gang in Southern Utah, which hosts an annual Greyhound Gathering for friends and fans of these sleekly charming dogs.

Plus, Steve goes to school on quail.

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The White House has a new First Dog, and it’s a breed that few Americans have even heard of, let alone seen. The Portuguese Water Dog came close to extinction in the 1970’s, saved by a few determined enthusiasts who cherished the breed for its temperament and talents. Joining us today is Dr. Jim Brannan, a Las Vegas dentist who has shared his home and hearth with porties for 15 years. He’s competed with them in agility and obedience trials, and has also been active in breed rescue. We invited him to join us today to talk about the this fascinating dog.

Plus: Emily and Archie triumph in agility!

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If you need any more proof that there is no end to the ways you can contribute to the welfare of animals, look no farther than Steve's sister, Julie Friess, who walks dogs for the Humane Society of Sedona in Arizona, where she lives. Julie explains how she got into this and why it's so rewarding.

Plus, Amy of GritsToGlitz.Com uses ice as a treat, NPR halts Calling All Pets and Steve's dog gets all gooey.

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Owning a pet is a lifetime commitment, and not everyone’s ready for the challenge. A good way to test the waters is through foster care, providing a temporary loving care to an animal in need while it waits for a forever home. Joining the Petcasters is Kristin Anderson, a veteran dog foster mom, who is chronicling the journey online at caninefostering.com.

Plus, Emily has another dramatic tale of pet-related intrigue in her neighborhood and Steve is baffled that anyone would NOT think that animals can get jealous. (Steve is reacting to a study reported recently.) Also, the Petcasters went back again to the PETA-sea kitten!

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For pet owners with allergies, nothing can be more frustrating than the sniffling, sneezing and red eyes that can come from being with the ones you love. Joining the Petcasters to shed -- har har -- some light on the issue is Dr. Bob Grubbe of Oxford, Ala., a board-certified allergist who divides his time between private practice and clinical research.

Plus, Emily discusses Archie’s improved teeth and Steve asks a trivia question and Emily knows the answer, of course!

Email: ThePetcast@yahoo.com
Site: ThePetcast.com