Across the United States, an estimated 4.7 million people are bit by dogs each year.

Closer to home, figures compiled by Hillsborough County Animal Services reveal the local problem is growing.

Last year, 2,279 incidents were reported. That was up by 320 incidents over the previous year and up by more than 1,000 since 2000.

Pinellas County logged 1,262 dog bites last year. But officials note that many incidents go unreported.

There are ways to combat this problem, say the American Veterinary Medical Association, the U.S. Postal Service and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. To help draw attention to solutions, they have declared this coming week National Dog Bite Prevention Week.

The causes of dog bites vary. Some speculate that more bites are occurring because more families own dogs.

Others blame improper training or poor socialization of the pets. Some point out that people, children in particular, don’t know how to safely interact with pets.

Whatever the reason, children are especially vulnerable to dog bites, according to figures from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

About half of all children in the United States will be bit by a dog by the time they reach their senior year of high school, that group reports.

Nationally, the rate of dog bite-related injuries is highest for ages 5 to 9, and the rate decreases as children grow older.

And when children are bit, it tends to happen near their head or neck.

Why are kids so vulnerable?

“Children can do things that are completely misinterpreted by Rover,” says Mary Birrell, master canine behavior therapist and trainer with Bark Busters Home Dog Training.

For instance, children may be playfully staring at the dog - but that’s not how the dog sees it, Birrell says.

“From Rover’s viewpoint, staring is an aggressive challenge. It’s often a precursor to an attack, so Rover might think he’s going to be attacked.”

Dogs can also misinterpret hugs.

“A child hugging a dog is a common reason for bites,” Birrell explains. “Kids think they’re showing affection by hugging, but the dog might think he’s being dominated through this behavior.”

When children are hugging a dog, their face is a likely place to be bit.

Most Bites Occur At Home
You may feel most vulnerable to a dog attack while you’re at dog parks or in unfamiliar neighborhoods. But statistics show most dog bites occur in homes.

Family members, friends and invited guests are most often the victims of a dog bite.

“Regardless of behavior issues, dog owners need to be the ‘pack leader,’” Birrell says. “Dogs won’t feel safe and secure if there isn’t a clear pack leader, which opens the door for aggression.”

Any dog, no matter how cute or apparently docile, is capable of biting.

The key to preventing dog bites is making sure the owner is in charge of his pet. When that’s the case, the dog will respect the human pack leader, Birrell says.

Another way to reduce your dog’s chance of biting someone is to have your dog neutered, experts say.

“Seventy-one percent of the traceable dogs that bit last year were intact,” says Bill Armstrong, director of Hillsborough County Animal Services.

“You can’t say that a sterilized dog won’t ever bite, but statistically, they are significantly less likely to bite.”

Questions also often arise about whether a dog’s breed makes it more likely to bite.

Along those lines, insurance companies, homeowners associations, even entire cities and townships have jumped on the breed banning bandwagon. Many communities have singled out pit bulls, Rottweilers and chows as dangerous.

In Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, reports show that pit bulls, Labradors, chows and German shepherds accounted for the greatest number of bites in 2006.

But Hillsborough’s list also included less likely breeds in the top 10, including Jack Russell terriers, boxers and hound dogs.

Hillsborough’s bite report also notes it’s unfair to draw conclusions from these numbers because it doesn’t have accurate statistics for the number of dogs, by breed, in the overall canine population.

“I do not believe there is a ‘dangerous’ breed,” Birrell says. “It’s not the breed that is important, but the temperament and the people or the environment that cause dogs to be dangerous.”

“If an animal is under control, we don’t need to worry about a specific breed,” agrees Kenny Mitchell, director of Pinellas County Animal Services.

But Birrell doesn’t entirely discount the role heritage can play in a dog’s propensity to be harmful. “What is dangerous is when people use powerful dogs as a status symbol.”

Armstrong says, “"In Florida, we have a statute that says you’re responsible for what your dog does. Don’t put your dog in a situation where it can hurt someone.”

Helpful Tips
Be aware that serious dog attacks tend to happen when:

•Male dogs are not neutered.

•Dogs are continually tied up or restrained.

•The dog perceives a human is threatening its food source.

•Young children are left unattended with dogs.

•Children make erratic moves and/or high-pitched noises.

When you encounter an aggressive dog:

•Don’t run, though that may be your first inclination.

•Stand tall, stop, and face the aggressive dog, but don’t make eye contact. (Dogs consider eye contact to be a challenge.)

•Stand your ground. Don’t move until the dog goes away. If you look dominant, the dog will lose interest. If you run, the dog will likely chase you.

•For information, go to http://www.doggonesafe.comand check out the “Be a Tree” program for children.

3 Things A Dog Owner Can Do
•Spay or neuter your dog. Neutered pets are calmer, healthier and less likely to be aggressive.

•Condition your dog for the world. Give your puppy or new dog lots of new, positive experiences. Seek the advice or instruction of a dog trainer, and use positive training methods.

•Supervise your dog at all times around children. Do not allow kids to hug and kiss the dog. If visiting children are bothering your dog, put the dog away or send the children home.

3 Things To Teach Your Kids
•Don’t hug or kiss the dog. Hugging and kissing are common causes of dog bites to the face. Instead, teach kids to scratch the dog on the chest or the side of the neck.

•Stand straight and tall, like a tree, if a strange dog approaches. Eventually the dog will go away. This works for strange dogs and any time the family dog gets too frisky or becomes aggressive.

•Never tease a dog, and don’t disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating or protecting something.

Important Things Parents Can Do
•Supervise your dog. Don’t assume it is good with kids. If a toddler must interact with your dog, you should have your hands on the dog, too.

•Train the dog. Take it to obedience classes where positive reinforcement is used. Never pin, shake, choke or hold down the dog or roll the dog over to teach it a lesson. Dogs treated this way are likely to turn their aggression on weaker family members.

Involve older children in training the family dog while under supervision. Do not allow children to punish the dog. Condition the dog to enjoy the presence and actions of children through positive experiences.

IF A BITE OCCURS •Seek medical attention if the bite is serious. Dog bites requiring medical attention or resulting in an injury to another animal must be reported to the animal services agency that serves your county. Dog bites to people may also be reported to your county’s health department. Hospitals and doctor’s offices are required to report bites on humans.

•Depending on the severity of the bite, animal services may quarantine the animal for 10 days to determine whether the dog was infected with rabies. If the bite or attack is serious enough, animal services may maintain custody of the dog until the case has been fully investigated and a determination made about whether the dog is safe to maintain as a pet. Dogs can be declared “dangerous” or “vicious” by the county, based on the severity of the incident. In some cases, fines and ownership restrictions may be imposed under Florida law.

•Report a dog bite with Hillsborough County Animal Services by calling (813) 744-5660; after hours (5 p.m. to 8 a.m.), call (813) 654-6006. In Pinellas, call (727) 582-2608. In Pasco, call (813) 929-1212.

Additional Resources

•The Hillsborough County Animal Services Web site offers bite prevention tips and instructions on how to report a dog bite; www

.hillsboroughcounty.org/animalservices.

•Pinellas County Animal Services offers classes in dog bite prevention. For information, call (727) 582-2600 or go to http://www.pinellascounty .org/animalservices.

•Be a Tree Program: http://www.doggonesafe.com

•Bark Busters Home Dog Training offers free dog bite prevention lectures. For information, call Mary Birrell at (813) 340-7868 or go to http://www.barkbusters.com.

Sources: Hillsborough County Animal Services, Pinellas County Animal Services, http://www.doggonesafe.com, Mary Birrell

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Are pets capable of the kind of love that humans feel?

Pet owners will insist that they can, and they say there are plenty of signs of it: Tails wagging, purring, sloppy and scratchy kisses.

But do those truly represent feelings of love, the way we humans feel that emotion?

Or are our animals simply exhibiting a bond based on instinct, dependence and social hierarchy?

It’s a question without easy answers.

“It can be difficult to know whether two people who profess to be experiencing ‘love’ are experiencing the exact same emotion, much less whether other species are experiencing something similar,” says E’Lise Christensen, an animal behavior veterinarian for NYC Veterinary Specialists in Manhattan.

At the same time, it’s apparent that dogs and cats develop social attachments to people.

“This is especially obvious in animals with separation anxiety syndrome,” Christensen says. That syndrome results when a dog or cat develops a hyperattachment to its caretaker and becomes destructive when the caretaker leaves.

But that’s an extreme example.

There are many pets that do not have separation anxiety, that simply prefer being near their owners - or even on their owners - when there are plenty of other places for them to relax, she says.

But does that prove that they love us?

Perhaps.

Are pets, like people, drawn to certain personality types?

Can a strong-willed, alpha-type dog get along with a submissive owner? Or would it prefer an owner who likes to take charge?

How about timid dogs? Do they prefer laid-back owners?

And what about cats?

People often say cats are aloof - too independent to bond with their owners. But, clearly, there are cats that enjoy human companionship. They’re just not as demonstrative as their canine counterparts.

Want to know whether your cat loves you?

If it brings something half-dead and drops it at your feet - that’s a sign.

A less gruesome way some cats show their affection is by following you around the house or by casually entering a room a few minutes after you arrive, as if by mere coincident.

Jumping on your lap, greeting you at the door or rubbing you with its head are other signals of feline affection.

So, how do you know your dog loves you?

Sorry, but a dog licking your face probably isn’t a true sign of love, Jon Rappaport, founder of PetPlace.com, says in a recent online story.

When a dog licks our face, we tend to respond to them with attention, praise and hugs or kisses - which tends to encourage their licking, he notes.

But when they lick our face, aren’t they seeking our affection?

It’s a point to ponder.

Whether they feel true love may remain one of life’s mysteries, but we do know that animal magnetism works both ways.

Studies show the mere presence or touch by a preferred person can reduce a pet’s heart rate. And the same goes for us when we touch or spend time with our pets.

“In my experience, most cats and dogs bond with their families; however, like in humans, each relationship will have its own unique characteristics,” Christensen says. “This is why our companion animals are irreplaceable”.

CRITTER CALENDAR
Spring Pet Adoption Expo

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and No More Homeless Pets in Hillsborough County are hosting a spring pet adoption expo from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 19 at the Florida State Fairgrounds’ Special Events Center, 4800 U.S. 301 N., Tampa.

More than 20 animal rescue groups will be offering hundreds of dogs, cats, puppies and kittens for adoption. Vendors will be selling pet merchandise, and there will be door prizes, demonstrations and information available on a variety of pet-related topics.

Admission and parking are free at the Orient Road entrance. Rescue groups will be accepting donations.

For information, call (813) 920-8359 or go to http://www.tampapets.org.

Weimaraner Meet-Up

Meet with Weimaraner enthusiasts and their dogs at 10 a.m. May 19 at Fort DeSoto’s Paw Playground and beach, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde. For information, go to http://www.meetup.com.

Pet Palooza

Camden Apartment Communities and the Humane Society of Tampa Bay roll out the welcome mat for pets at the third annual Pet Palooza from 1 to 4 p.m. today, Sunday and May 20 at various Camden properties in Tampa. The furry fun includes adoptable pets on-site, hurricane preparedness tips for pet owners, information on pet microchipping, spay-neuter and training tips, and activities for pets and people.

Additionally, Camden will donate $50 to the society for every new pet lease signed and will waive the initial pet deposit in honor of national pet month.

Events are today at Camden Citrus Park, 8102 Sheldon Road; Sunday at Camden Preserve, 6501 S. West Shore Blvd.; and May 20 at Camden Woods, 250 Belle Chase Circle, Tampa. For information, call 1-866-362-3757 or go to http://www.camdenliving.com.

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My husband and I don’t have children, but we do consider ourselves parents.  Our pets are our “kids”. 

Zeke, Buck, Tank, Bilbo, Timmy, Cocoa, Scooter, Izzy and Willow (2 dogs, a cat, four goats and two miniature donkeys) depend on my husband and I for their every need, and then some. Doesn’t that make us parents?

While we are the minority in our circle of friends, we’re part of a growing number of couples choosing pets to fulfill their nurturing needs.

A survey of pet owners by the American Animal Hospital Association in the late nineties revealed that 61 percent of dog owners surveyed believe that caring for their pets fulfilled a need of parenting. The previous year, 69 percent of dog owners surveyed said they give their pets as much attention as they would to their children and 54 percent of the survey respondents said they felt an emotional dependence on their pets.

Additionally, 61 percent of U.S. households include pets, while just 39 percent have children, according to the 2007-08 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, Inc. (APPMA).

So, we are not so unusual after all. There are many couples, married or not, who have chosen to parent pets over children for various reasons. 

For some, pet parenting can be a warm-up to the commitment and responsibilities necessary in rearing children, but for those I spoke to for this column, pets are their kids—and they’re proud to say so.

“We can’t imagine life without her,” says Richard DeBow of Riverview. He and his wife, Sheila, think of Rhiannon, their 11-year old Labrador, as their child. “When people ask us if we have any children, we tell them ‘yes a four-legged one’.” The DeBows also admit to calling themselves Mommy and Daddy when speaking to her.

Certainly the commitment level, responsibility and love for children is different for that of pets, (although you may get an argument from some pet owners about that). But choosing to share your life with animal companions versus children has some inherent benefits—according to the couples I spoke to.

“They’re more self-sufficient than a child,” says Debi Moore of Tampa. She and boyfriend Steve enjoy the ability to travel together frequently, without the “kids”. They simply make arrangements for five cats, Pinot Noir, Fortune, Rockus, Classik and Noggin, to be cared for in their absence.

“Plus,” Moore laughs, “they never talk back”.

Sarah Howard and her husband live in Seminole Heights with their Catahoula Leapord Hound, Bayou. “Pets don’t create as much drama as kids” states Howard. While she admits that Bayou will sometimes act out like a child—he also protects the house and provides constant companionship and security.

“As a parent, you have to always protect your child, but pets are the ones that look out for you,” Howard points out.

But are we pet parents missing out on a love that can only be experienced through childrearing? Perhaps.  But arguably what we don’t know, we don’t miss, and what we do have, we cherish.

“She licks my whole head when I get home from work,” beams DeBow. “That’s what I have waiting for me each day.” Rhiannon also snuggles in bed and comforts them if someone is feeling down, according to DeBow.

Surely as voluntarily childless couples with pets, we will miss out on proud, joyous occasions such as seeing our kids graduate, get married, and have children of their own. But the parallel between these two types of “kids” is that we both enjoy making our children happy, and seeing them enjoy life.

Ironically, there’s a similar level of camaraderie among pet-only parents that is shared by their childrearing counterparts. The Howard’s regularly socialize with friends who are also childless. “We talk about our pets just like couples do about their kids,” boasts Howard. “We compare stories and behavior issues—isn’t that what most parents do?”

And there are other common parallels. Children and animals both will “test you” so you need to set limits and reinforce them consistently. And, “time out” can work wonders on both two and four-legged offenders. Some pets can be as finicky about their vittles as kids are about their vegetables. And in the case of humans and pet species, you need to provide love, attention and stimulation to ensure a healthy, well-developed “kid”.

Pets aren’t perfect, but neither are children. The sad part about pet parenting is that our animal companions are only with us for a short time—10-15 years, usually. But for most couples that choose pets over children, they do satisfy our need to nurture and protect, and to love something that is uniquely part of “us”—even if not biologically.

Clearly, children are precious to their parents and the associated sacrifices and responsibilities are much greater than those made by the voluntarily childless with pets.

I’m happy to hear about your child’s perfect math score or athletic award—really, I am. But I probably have a story I am proud of as well—so be sure to ask me about my kids too.

CRITTER CALENDAR:

SPCA’S SPRING ADOPTATHON
The Polk County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) will have pets available for adoption from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on May 5, and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 6. The SPCA will be at the following locations during these times: Petsmart, 1051 W. Brandon Blvd. in Brandon; Petsmart, 11331 Causeway Blvd. in Brandon; and Petco, 4139 U.S. Hwy. 98 N. in Lakeland.  For more information, call (863) 646-7722 or visit http://www.lovemyspca.com.

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My husband and I don’t have children, but we consider ourselves parents.

Our pets are our “kids.”

Zeke, Buck, Tank, Bilbo, Timmy, Cocoa, Scooter, Izzy and Willow - two dogs, a cat, four goats and two miniature donkeys - depend on my husband and me for their every need. Doesn’t that make us parents?

Though we are the minority in our circle of friends, we’re part of a growing number of couples choosing pets to fulfill their nurturing needs.

Sixty-one percent of households across the nation include pets, while just 39 percent have children, says a 2007-08 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association.

So, my husband and I are not that unusual. There are many couples, married or not, who have chosen to parent pets over children.

Pure Joy From Pets
The reasons vary.

Pet parenting can be a warm-up to the commitment and responsibilities necessary for rearing children. But many get pure joy from the relationship they have with their pets.

“We can’t imagine life without her,” says Richard DeBow of Riverview. He and his wife, Sheila, consider Rhiannon, their 11-year old Labrador, their child.

“When people ask us if we have any children, we tell them, ‘Yes, a four-legged one,’” Richard says.

The DeBows call themselves “Mommy” and “Daddy” when they speak to Rhiannon.

Certainly the commitment level, responsibility and love for children is different for that of pets - although some pet owners may argue with you on that point.

Choosing to share your life with animal companions versus children has some inherent benefits, couples I interviewed say.

“They’re more self-sufficient than a child,” says Debi Moore of Tampa.

She and boyfriend enjoy the ability to travel together frequently, without the “kids.” They simply make arrangements for someone to watch over their five cats, Pinot Noir, Fortune, Rockus, Classik and Noggin.

Another advantage? “They never talk back,” Moore says.

Sarah Howard and her husband live in Tampa’s Seminole Heights neighborhood with their Catahoula leopard hound, Bayou.

“Pets don’t create as much drama as kids,” Howard says.

Bayou sometimes acts like a child, but he also protects the house and provides constant companionship and security.

“As a parent, you have to always protect your child, but pets are the ones that look out for you,” Howard points out.

But are we pet parents missing out on a love that can only be experienced through child-rearing?

Perhaps.

Then again, what we don’t know, we can’t miss - and what we do know, we cherish.

“She licks my whole head when I get home from work,” beams Richard DeBow. “That’s what I have waiting for me each day.”

Rhiannon also snuggles in bed and provides comfort if he or his wife are feeling down, he says.

As voluntarily childless couples with pets, we will miss out on joyous occasions such as seeing our children graduate, get married or have children. But like traditional parents, pet parents enjoy making their children happy and watching them have fun.

Camaraderie Shared
There’s also a similar level of camaraderie among pet-only parents that is shared by their child-rearing counterparts.

The Howards regularly socialize with friends who are also childless.

“We talk about our pets just like couples do about their kids,” boasts Howard. “We compare stories and behavior issues - isn’t that what most parents do?”

There are other parallels.

Children and animals both will “test you,” so you need to set limits and be consistent in reinforcing good behavior.

And, both animals and children understand the concept of “timeout.”

Pets and children also can be finicky about food, and both need love, attention and stimulation to have healthy lives.

One sad fact about pet parenting is that our animal companions are only with us for a short time - typically 10 to 15 years.

But during that time, they do satisfy our need to nurture and protect and to love something that is uniquely part of “us” - even if not biologically.

Clearly, the responsibilities for raising a child are greater than those of parenting a pet, but both kinds of parents can be proud of their “children’s” accomplishments.

So, please do tell me about your child’s perfect math score, most recent athletic award or other big accomplishment.

But remember, I may have stories I would like to share about my pet kids, too.

CRITTER CALENDAR
Polk SPCA Spring Adoptathon

The Polk County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals will have pets available for adoption from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 5 and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 6.

The SPCA will be at the following locations during these times: PetSmart, 1051 W. Brandon Blvd., Brandon; PetSmart, 11331 Causeway Blvd., Brandon; and Petco, 4139 U.S. 98 N., Lakeland.

For details, call (863) 646-7722 or go to http://www.lovemyspca .com.

Kristen Levine can be reached at Fetching Communications, P.O. Box 222, Tarpon Springs FL 34688; fax (727) 934-6451; or e-mail .

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Kalen Keys can’t look out the back window of her home without recalling the large, helpless bird she frantically tried to help three weeks ago.

The bird, tangled in fishing line, had tried to land in the giant oak tree behind Keys’ home.

The line snagged the tree limb and the bird was stuck - hanging upside down.

“Every time he would try to fight to get free, he just started swinging from the line caught in the branches,” recalls Keys.

“I saw him struggling for his life at about 6:30 on Friday night,” Keys recalls. “I immediately jumped on the computer and started looking for bird or wildlife rescue in Tampa.”

The big oak sits on a tiny island in the middle of a pond in her back yard. The trees’ limbs hang out over a few feet of water. Without a boat or at least some help, Keys was powerless except to call for help.

She did that, over and over again.

She made no fewer than a dozen calls that night to various agencies.

Each call turned out to be a dead end. Automated messages rerouted her to after-hours emergency numbers.

One number was disconnected.

Some didn’t answer.

Others had automated operators that asked her to leave a message that would be returned.

A call to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office offered the first human contact. The dispatcher gave Keys a number for a wildlife rescue, but that turned out to be disconnected.

The dispatcher suggested she call an animal emergency number - which led to a voice mail requesting the caller leave a message regarding the emergency.

Other desperate calls went to “critter removal” services. She found out they do not rescue animals and did not consider her situation to be an emergency.

Keys went to bed frustrated, hoping she would hear back from one of the places where she had left a message.

“I woke up the next morning and he was dead, still swinging from the branch,” Keys says.

It has been three weeks, and no one has called her back.

Many Good Samaritans find themselves in similar, desperate situations. They’re eager to help but don’t know where to turn.

Truth be told, there are gaps when it comes to services for injured animals, wildlife in particular.

There are places you can call, but keep in mind that even these places have limitations. They may not be able to help when you need it, or they may not handle the kind of animal you’re trying to help. Also note that some of these are nonprofit groups that rely on donations, and others are private companies that charge a fee.

The SPCA Tampa Bay also is willing to help as an after-hours resource for all animal emergencies. After hours, leave a message for the on-duty humane officer to call you back.

“If we can’t handle your animal emergency, we know who to direct you to,” explained Connie Brooks, director of operations at SPCA Tampa Bay.

CRITTER CALENDAR Pet Palooza At Apartments

In support of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, Camden Apartment Communities will host five Pet Palooza events across the Bay area this spring. Each event will feature pets available for adoption, hurricane preparedness tips for pet owners, information on microchipping and spay-neuter, training tips and lots of pet-friendly activities.

During Pet Palooza events, anyone who signs a new pet apartment lease will have his or her pet deposit waived, and Camden will donate $50 to the Humane Society.

Pet Palooza is from 1 to 4 p.m. April 28 at Camden Bay Pointe, 5902 Memorial Highway, Tampa, and 1 to 4 p.m. April 29 at Camden Providence Lakes, 1702 Chapel Tree Circle, Brandon.

Dog Walking Seminar

Join Stop Pet Overpopulation Together for a pet care seminar on training dogs to walk on a leash. The course is from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the Azalea Recreation Center, 1600 72nd St. N., St. Petersburg.

Guest speaker and dog trainer Maria Ryan will talk about the importance of walking dogs on a leash for better health and well-being.

The seminar is free for SPOT members and $5 for nonmembers. For information or to RSVP, go to http://www.spotusa.org or call (727) 545-3463.

SPCA Adoption Day In Brandon

The Lakeland SPCA features adoptable pets from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 28 at PetSmart, 11331 Causeway Blvd., Brandon.

Adoption fee is $80 and includes spay-neuter, vaccinations and more. For information, call (863) 646-7722 or go to http://www.lovemyspca.com.

Tuxes & Tails

Join the Humane Society of Tampa Bay for its fifth annual Tuxes & Tails event from 6 to 11 p.m. May 5 at the Pepin Hospitality Center, 4121 N. 50th St., Tampa. Celebrities team with their own pets or an adoptable pet for a fashion show.

The evening includes live entertainment, a high-end silent and live auction and dinner. Tickets are $125 per person. All proceeds benefit the Humane Society. Corporate tables and sponsorships are available.

For information or to purchase tickets, call (813) 876-4150 or go to http://www.humanesocietytampa.org.

Pet-lifestyle expert Kristen Levine can be reached at Fetching Communications, P.O. Box 222, Tarpon Springs FL 34688; e-mail at ; or fax at (727) 934-6451.

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TAMPA - If you’re reading this before noon today, there’s still a chance you can join in the Humane Society of Tampa Bay’s 20th annual Bark in the Park.

The event typically draws hundreds of pets and people to Al Lopez Park, 4810 N. Himes Ave., to raise money to benefit the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. It also provides a forum for pets and their owners to socialize. This year’s event runs from 8:30 a.m. until noon.

The fundraiser is crucial to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay’s operations. Unlike the county’s Animal Services, the humane society receives no taxpayer support. It relies entirely on private donations.

“We have high hopes that this will be a record year for dollars raised at the walk,” says Cathy Bellatin, special events coordinator.

Money raised today will provide food, shelter and medical care for the pets at the humane society until new, permanent homes can be found for them.

The prospects look good for a successful event, says Linda Baker, the humane society’s executive director.

“We’re so pleased that on this big anniversary, our walk will be bigger than ever,” Baker says. “We have twice the number of teams [walking to raise money] and vendors as last year.”

Scheduled activities include dog washing, tail painting, arts and crafts, flyball and disc demonstrations. Dozens of vendors will be selling pet-related goods.

If you arrive at the park by 8:30 a.m., you’ll be treated to a free breakfast from Krispy Kreme and Sweet Tomatoes.

Round Up A Pack Or Come Alone
Participants may walk individually or as a “pack.” Packs are encouraged because of their potential to raise more dollars - and it’s a fun group activity.

A pack consists of five to 10 members, typically a group of pet-loving neighbors, friends, family or co-workers. Each member must collect a minimum of $45. Packs are entitled to special benefits including official T-shirts, pack photo, signage and a mention in the humane society’s quarterly newsletter.

A veteran pack, the “PAR-ty” Animals,” is confident it will win the prize for the most money raised in today’s event.

If it does, it’ll be the sixth year in a row that the members have captured that honor.

Results will be tabulated today.

“We won’t reveal how much we’ve collected yet,” says Donna Drackett, chief financial officer of Psychological Assessment Resources in Lutz.

“We’d love for someone to challenge us because it would just mean more money for the humane society.”

Drackett has coordinated the corporate pack for Bark in the Park for as far back as she can recall.

“It’s a cause near and dear to a number of employees’ hearts,” she says. “It’s not hard to get people to contribute when they know it is for the animals at the humane society.”

Individual walkers are welcome, too. A minimum of $45 is required to register.

The registration fee allows your pet to participate in a variety of contests, including best costume, silly pet tricks and owner-pet look-alike. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third places.

Humane Society Has Many Programs
Transitioning to a “no-kill for space” shelter in 2004, the humane society no longer euthanizes cats or dogs to make room for other cats and dogs.

It no longer accepts strays. Owners wishing to relinquish a pet must make an appointment, and only adoptable dogs and cats are accepted.

Beyond providing shelter, food and medical care for thousands of adoptable pets, the humane society operates an adoption program and a low-cost spay-neuter clinic.

It also has a behavior help line, mobile adoptions and a community outreach program. And it coordinates “Animeals,” delivering quality pet food for animals of homebound Hillsborough County citizens.

Bark in the Park sponsors help cover event costs, so more of the money generated by the fundraiser can be spent to help animals.

Among this year’s sponsors are the city of Tampa’s parks and recreation department, Free Press, Sweet Tomatoes, WWRM, 94.9 FM, and The Tampa Tribune.

If you miss the event today and still want to help, you can make a tax-deductible contribution to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay by mailing a check to the society at 3607 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa FL 33607-1322. Go to www .humanesocietytampa.org or call (813) 876-4150 for information.

CRITTER CALENDAR
Festival’s Auction To Benefit Animals

Enjoy food from local restaurants and sample various wines at the Art, Wine & Food Fest from 7 to 9 p.m. March 31 at the Raymond James International Art Private Collection, 880 Carillon Parkway, St. Petersburg. The event also features a chance to meet artists, tour a wildlife art collection and bid on auction items, including an original Peter Max portrait of you.

Auction proceeds benefit the Pinellas Animal Foundation and Creative Clay Inc. Tickets are $25 per person or $40 per couple. VIP packages are $50 per person or $80 per couple and include a champagne hour at 6 p.m., personal meet, greet and tour reception, annual membership in the foundation and a raffle ticket.

For information or to purchase tickets, call Joan Marzi at (727) 710-7387 or go to http://www.pinellas

animalfoundation.org.

Cartoons, Comedy And Compassion

Florida Voices for Animals is sponsoring a charity event at 6 p.m. April 1 at the Octagon Arts Center at the Utilitarian Universalist Church of Clearwater, 2470 Nursery Road. This will be a multimedia comedic overview featuring Dan Piraro, creator of the award-winning syndicated newspaper cartoon “Bizarro.”

Tickets are $6.50 for general admission and $3.50 for students. For tickets and information, go to http://www.Bizarro

Artist.org or call (813) 600-6949.

BARK IN THE PARK
WHERE: Al Lopez Park, 4810 N. Himes Ave., Tampa

WHO: People and their pets are welcome. Pets must be on a leash at all times and should be wearing county license and identification tags, have current vaccinations (rabies, distemper, parvo) and be spayed or neutered.

WHEN: Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. The 1-mile walk begins at 10 a.m., and pet contests start at 11 a.m. Demonstrations, vendors and entertainment will be offered all morning. The event ends at noon.

Pet-lifestyle expert Kristen Levine can be reached at Fetching Communications, P.O. Box 222, Tarpon Springs FL 34688; e-mail at ; or fax at (727) 934-6451.

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It’s not just a matter of bad breath.

Paying attention to your pet’s dental health can it live longer.

“Two-thirds of pet owners don’t understand the importance of dental care for their pet,” explains veterinarian Emily Dugas of Veterinary Medical Clinic in Tampa.

Dugas estimates that only 2 percent of pet owners brush their pet’s teeth with enough regularity for the pet to maintain good oral health.

Good oral health is important to your pet for lots of reasons. For one thing, it can affect the pet’s overall health. For another, dogs rely on their mouths to eat, play and explore.

The American Veterinary Medical Association, American Veterinary Dental Society and other organizations have set aside February as National Pet Dental Health Month to draw attention to the issue.

“Most often, pets don’t show signs of periodontal disease,” Dugas explains. “But by age 3, 75 [percent] to 80 percent of dogs will have some stage of periodontal disease.”

Her claim is bolstered by statistics: A report by the American Veterinary Medical Association cites periodontal disease as the No. 1 problem diagnosed in dogs and cats older than 3.

Killer dog or cat breath typically means there is significant bacteria buildup.

Besides smelling bad, poor dental hygiene is directly linked to serious health problems that affect longevity, including risk of heart, liver and kidney disease.

“When the mouth is infected, bacteria can move to other parts of the body - important organs including the heart, kidneys and liver,” says Dugas, citing recent findings from an AVMA study about oral health in pets.

Periodontal disease results when bacteria attack the soft gum tissues in the mouth. It is the final stage in a process that begins when plaque develops on the teeth. When plaque mixes with saliva, it hardens and becomes tartar.

Bacteria, plaque and tartar irritate your pets’ gums and cause redness, swelling and tenderness. This stage is referred to as gingivitis.

Eventually, inflamed gums can separate from the teeth, causing pockets allowing more bacteria to accumulate. As pockets deepen, bacteria attack the roots of the teeth and the bony tissues of the jaw. This causes teeth to loosen, gums to bleed, mouth odor and pain. This is full-blown periodontal disease.

As if this doesn’t sound painful enough, the next progression for bacteria is to enter the bloodstream and infect major organs and possible the nervous system as well. If it’s not caught in time, a pet’s organs can sustain serious damage that can lead to death.

Keep in mind, pets cannot tell us they have a toothache or trouble chewing.

“Pets can be very stoic,” Dugas points out. “So it might not be obvious when they are experiencing pain or discomfort.”

Watch for the following signs of dental disease in dogs or cats:

•Yellow or brown buildup of tartar along gum line.

•Inflamed gums.

•Persistent bad breath.

•Change in eating or chewing habits .

•Not eating at all.

•Depression.

•Broken teeth.

The good news is that periodontal disease is preventable and treatable.

The American Veterinary Dental Society recommends the pet owners work with their veterinarians to maintain the animal’s good dental health.

The society outlines the following three-step process to take the bite out of dental dilemmas:

•Take your pet to the veterinarian for a complete checkup, including a dental exam. Don’t wait until the annual checkup if you suspect a problem.

•Begin a dental regimen at home. Your veterinarian can suggest steps that may include brushing your pet’s teeth.

Ideally, it’s best to start them on a routine brushing program at an early age, but adult animals can learn to tolerate brushing, too.

•Start with a soft gauze and a toothpaste formulated for pets. Graduate to a specially designed pet toothbrush. Toothpaste for humans will irritate your pet’s stomach.

One convenient and effective way to combat oral disease is by feeding your pet specially formulated foods that have been proven effective in fighting plaque and tartar buildup.

Schedule regular veterinary checkups. These help your veterinarian monitor progress of your pet’s dental health routine. For young and adult pets, a checkup is needed at least once a year. For older pets, six-month checkups are recommended.

It may not be easy to get your pet accustomed to a toothbrush, if the pet hasn’t seen one before.

The best thing is to start slowly.

Here are some tips from veterinary dentist Jan Bellows of Hometown Animal Hospital in Weston that can help.

•It’s good for dogs and cats to have chew toys and tartar-scrubbing foods, similar to “edible” toothbrushes, as part of their dental care. Look for ‘Greenies” or other toothbrush-shaped chews at your local pet supply retailer. (Yes, they make them for cats, too).

•An even better idea is to use a pet oral rinse that can be squirted into the mouth. Some of the rinses are malt- or fish-flavored. Another clever idea is dental wipes, for use once a day. These products can be a great addition to the dog’s chews.

•The best thing to do is to brush your pet’s teeth. Your pet will get used to it, and so will you. One of the newest techniques in canine tooth care is a special antibiotic given to the dog five days of each month to control periodontal disease. Used with daily brushing, it eliminates doggie breath and helps your dog hold on to its teeth until it is a senior citizen.

Regardless of what type of dental care you choose for your pet, introduce it gradually. Keep the sessions short, and never over-restrain them. Make it worthwhile to cooperate by offering a special treat or a favorite toy after each “tooth care timeout.”

CRITTER CALENDAR
Sink Your Teeth Into Offer

To celebrate National Pet Dental Health Month in February, Greenies is offering a complimentary canine dental care package to dog owners. Throughout the month, eligible dog owners who sign up at http://www.chewstocare .com can receive the package, which includes a $20 rebate on a dental cleaning at a participating local veterinary office (requires proof of visit and proper paperwork; open to the first 10,000 eligible households); a free sample of a new Greenies dental chew; a six-month e-mail reminder to make a veterinarian appointment; and free tell-a-friend e-cards to spread the word and give free offers to friends and family. The campaign runs through Feb. 28.

Adoptable Pets At Park
Meet adoptable pets from the Humane Society of Tampa Bay at the Winter Pride of Tampa Bay event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 24 at Al Lopez Park, 4810 N. Himes Ave., Tampa. For details, call (813) 876-7138 or go online to www .humanesocietytampabay.org or www .wptb.org.

Holistic Pet Care Seminar
Stop Pet Overpopulation Together is hosting a Holistic Pet Care Seminar from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Feb. 28 at the Azalea Recreation Center, 1600 72nd St. N., St. Petersburg. Learn about vaccinations, diet and nutrition as well as nontoxic flea prevention with guest speaker Rob Cannizzaro.
The seminar is free for SPOT members or $5 for nonmembers. Seating is limited. For information or to R.S.V.P., go to http://www.spotusa.orgor call (727) 545-3463.

Write to pet-lifestyle expert Kristen Levine at Fetching Communications, P.O. Box 222, Tarpon Springs FL 34688, or ; or fax to (727) 934-6451.

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Valentine’s Day is a popular time to express our love, not only to people who claim our hearts, but also to our pets.

“It’s no longer just about human loved ones anymore, it’s about our pets, too,” says Dan Christian, executive director of the Purina Pet Institute.

“I think it’s an indication that people are very attached to pets and consider them a true family member.

“Pets offer unconditional love without any anticipation of receiving,” Christian says.

More than 50 percent of the pet owners in the 2006 Purina Pet Lovers Survey planned to include their pets in their Valentine’s celebration.

The survey included 484 men and 516 women. Of those, roughly two-thirds own a dog, a cat or both.

Eight percent of the men surveyed and 9 percent of the women said they planned to spend the day alone with their pets.

Of the women falling into that category, 30 percent claimed their pets are most in tune with them. Of the men, 43 percent said their pets diminish, rather than increase, their stress.

Though a majority of women said they show more public displays of affection to their significant others, more than 41 percent said they are more demonstrative in public with their pets.

Tampa dog owner Lisa Clemans says that’s true for her.

“I am definitely one to kiss and pet all over my pups when I’m in public,” Clemans says. “My partner will get a little peck on the cheek here and there, but my pets get No. 1 billing for sure.”

Where our hearts lie, our pocketbooks soon follow.

More than 9 million pet owners will purchase a Valentine’s gift for their pet this year, according to the 2005-06 American Pet Product Manufacturers Association National Pet Owners Survey.

On average, people spend about $13 a gift, with women spending slightly more and men spending slightly less than average, the pet product manufacturers association reports.

If you’re looking for a present for your favorite pet, there’s a plethora of posh, pink, pet-related products on the market. Here are a couple of gifts that are practical and fun that benefit the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation:

•Planet Dog’s Pink Ribbon Ringo is an indestructible rubber ball that is great for any dog that fetches, romps and plays. Planet Dog will donate a minimum of 45 cents for each ball sold, with a minimum guaranteed donation of $10,000. Go online to www .planetdog.com and click on “dog toys” and then Page 8). Local retail locations are listed on the company’s Web s

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Valentine’s Day is a popular time to express our love, not only to people who claim our hearts, but also to our pets.

“It’s no longer just about human loved ones anymore, it’s about our pets, too,” says Dan Christian, executive director of the Purina Pet Institute.

“I think it’s an indication that people are very attached to pets and consider them a true family member.

“Pets offer unconditional love without any anticipation of receiving,” Christian says.

More than 50 percent of the pet owners in the 2006 Purina Pet Lovers Survey planned to include their pets in their Valentine’s celebration.

The survey included 484 men and 516 women. Of those, roughly two-thirds own a dog, a cat or both.

Eight percent of the men surveyed and 9 percent of the women said they planned to spend the day alone with their pets.

Of the women falling into that category, 30 percent claimed their pets are most in tune with them. Of the men, 43 percent said their pets diminish, rather than increase, their stress.

Though a majority of women said they show more public displays of affection to their significant others, more than 41 percent said they are more demonstrative in public with their pets.

Tampa dog owner Lisa Clemans says that’s true for her.

“I am definitely one to kiss and pet all over my pups when I’m in public,” Clemans says. “My partner will get a little peck on the cheek here and there, but my pets get No. 1 billing for sure.”

Where our hearts lie, our pocketbooks soon follow.

More than 9 million pet owners will purchase a Valentine’s gift for their pet this year, according to the 2005-06 American Pet Product Manufacturers Association National Pet Owners Survey.

On average, people spend about $13 a gift, with women spending slightly more and men spending slightly less than average, the pet product manufacturers association reports.

If you’re looking for a present for your favorite pet, there’s a plethora of posh, pink, pet-related products on the market. Here are a couple of gifts that are practical and fun that benefit the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation:

•Planet Dog’s Pink Ribbon Ringo is an indestructible rubber ball that is great for any dog that fetches, romps and plays. Planet Dog will donate a minimum of 45 cents for each ball sold, with a minimum guaranteed donation of $10,000. Go online to www .planetdog.com and click on “dog toys” and then Page 8). Local retail locations are listed on the company’s Web site.

•The limited-edition, Pink Drinkwell, Original Pet Fountain features a free-falling stream of water, encouraging dogs and cats to drink more, keeping them healthy and hydrated. Veterinary Ventures Inc. will donate proceeds from the sale of its new pink Drinkwell fountain to the breast cancer foundation. It’s available at Petco and PetSmart stores or at http://www.petfountain .com.

Here are a couple gift ideas for your human sweethearts that also benefit pets:

•Dog Lovers Wine Club - The Carivintas Winery offers a different wine each month made by a California winemaker. Each month’s bottle features an illustration of a different dog on the label.

The Carivintas Winery supports the Humane Society of the United States Pets for Life Program. A wine club membership, a gift pack and gift certificates are available at http://www.dogloverswineclub.comor by calling 1-877-919-9463.

•Adopt love- Though it may be tempting to give your loved one a new puppy or kitten for Valentine’s Day, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals suggests a different approach. Present your loved one with a gift certificate to adopt from a local shelter, then take a trip to pick out the pet together.

For a list of Tampa Bay area animal shelters, go to TBO.com, keyword: Pets.

Write to pet-life expert Kristen Levine at Fetching Communications, P.O. Box 222, Tarpon Springs FL 34688; e-mail ; or fax to (727) 934-6451.

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When the Rotunda family arrived home with their new Golden-Doodle puppy last week, three-year old Jett exclaimed, “Her name is Soupy”.

Jett’s mom, Stephanie Rotunda of Parker Colorado explained that their new puppy had been given a name over a year ago—well before they even discusses getting a dog. He named one of his stuffed dog toys “Soupy”. When the family began to discuss getting a real puppy, Jett already had the name picked out.

“I thought he meant “Snoopy”, but he corrected me,” recalls Rotunda, “we don’t know where it came from”.

Ask any pet owners how they chose their pet’s name, and you’ll likely hear a special story.

‘Reina’ means princess in Spanish. “It had to be her name,” recalls Jennifer Almodovar of Carrollwood, of the day she brought home her puppy. “The way she was sleeping when I first saw her—she looked like a little princess.”

Sometimes it can be name-at-first-sight, but others choose to name our pets in honor of family or tradition.

“We named our dog ‘Poochy’ after my father’s childhood pet,” explained Alison McCarthy of New Port Richey. “We wanted to keep the name in the family”. The husky-terrier mix, adopted from the SPCA Tampa Bay also goes by Mr. Pooch, on more formal occasions.

The name you choose for your pet can say as much about you as it says about your pet. It can show how you view the relationship with your companion. While naming your pet is a very personal decision, be aware that certain names can cause people to judge your pet and react positively or negatively, even fearfully when being introduced. A canine “Muffin” will surely get a warmer response than a dog named “Chaos”. 

Use careful consideration when naming a pet that may be used as working dog or therapy dog, or any other ‘job’ that frequently exposes your pet to the public.

Naming a new companion can be fun! Unlike naming a child, new pet owners have lots of creative leeway. Parents naming a child usually give careful thought to whether a name will have peer acceptance, and how the first and middle names will blend with the last name. You can certainly be more adventurous searching for the perfect pet name.

Need some help?
If you are like the Rotunda’s you already have a name picked out for a pet you’ve yet to acquire. But if you are like most of us, you’re just waiting for that perfect ‘handle’ to emerge and you might appreciate some guidance. There are several books and web sites are dedicated to naming pets. The following helpful tips, “Pet Names with Personality”, were discovered on the Bow Wow Meow web site (http://www.bowwow.com/au).

The first thing to consider when mining for a pet moniker is to remember that the name you choose will be used dozens of times a day to call, praise or perhaps scold. Also be aware that you may even have to shout it out from time to time in your neighborhood for all to hear—so avoid a name that may ultimately embarrass you. (My neighbor’s cat’s name is “Kinky”—enough said).
• Pick a name that the pet can easily recognize. Animals respond better to one or two syllable names.
• For dogs, avoid names that sound like the standard commands of No, Stay, Sit, Come, Down or Fetch. For example ‘Joe’ is probably too close to “No”. It can be difficult for dogs to tell the difference between similar sounding words.
• If choosing a long name keep in mind the shortened version. A long name will inevitably be shortened, but it may ruin the effect that you were originally looking for.
• The pet’s breed heritage can provide some useful inspiration. For example Asian (Siamese and Burmese), German (Shepherds, Dachshunds and Schnauzers), French (Poodle), Scottish (Terriers), or Irish (Wolfhounds and Setters).
• Waiting a few days to study your pet’s behavior can help you pick the right name.
• Pick a name that will grow with the pet. For example “Kitten” may be less appropriate for a full-grown cat.
• Choose a name that’s both easy to call out and one that you are happy calling out. Calling out “Jack” or “Zoe” in the park may be far less embarrassing than calling out than “Death Breath”.

According to the America Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), a 2006 survey of veterinary records revealed the top 30 most popular pet names in the U.S.
1. Max
2. Sam
3. Lady
4. Bear
5. Smokey
6. Shadow
7. Kitty
8. Molly
9. Buddy
10. Brandy
11. Ginger
12. Baby
13. Misty
14. Missy
15. Pepper
16. Jake
17. Bandit
18. Tiger
19. Samantha
20. Lucky
21. Muffin
22. Princess
23. Maggie
24. Charlie
25. Sheba
26. Rocky
27. Patches
28. Tigger
29. Rusty
30. Buster
Pet Naming Resources
Books
1.  The Complete Book of Pet Names: An ASPCA Book by George Greenfield
(Paperback-1997)
2.  Name That Pet! By Naomi Jones (Paperback-2004)
3.  Beyond Fido: The Definitive Guide to Naming your Pet, by Tom Torriglia (Paperback-1991)

Web sites
http://www.bowwow.com.au/: This site offers pet name search engine, tips, top 20 names and you can purchase pet tags.
http://www.newpet.com: In addition to pet naming help, this site offers a variety of resources for new or soon-to-be pet owners.
http://www.petnamesworld.com: Over 11,000 pet name suggestions are each accompanied by its meaning and place of origin.

CRITTER CALENDAR

BOWSER GAMES
Bring the entire family--including your well-behaved four-legged friends for all day fun at the Bowser Games, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Feb. 10 at Highlander Park in Dunedin. The free event features contests for pets, kids and adults, flying disc demos, agility shows, K-9 displays, breed and rescue groups, local shelters, vendors and more! Contests include longest tail, shortest ears, best trick and more. Boston Terrier Rescue will offer pet microchipping for $25 with proof of spay or neuter and $35 without. Highlander Park is at the corner of Michigan St. and Pinehurst Rd. behind the Dunedin Art Center. For more information, call (727) 710-7387 or visit http://www.pinellasanimalfoundation.org.

ADOPT A PET THROUGH YOUR VET
Join the kick off of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay’s new program, Adopt A Pet Through Your Vet, with their Mobile Adoption Unit from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday at Adventure Animal Hospital, 8704 Jackson Springs Rd., Tampa.  This new program will assist in placing adoptable animals into responsible homes and raise awareness about the importance of routine and preventative veterinary care.  For more information call (813) 876-7138 or visit http://www.humanesocietytampabay.org.

ANIMAL ATTRACTIONS AT THE FLORIDA STATE FAIR-Feb.8-19
Planning a trip to the Florida State Fair? Below, Pet Cetera has sniffed out the “must sees” for animal lovers. The Fair opens Thursday and runs until Feb. 19, at the state fairgrounds 4800 Highway 301 N., in Tampa.  Fair hours are 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Admission is $10 adults, $5 for children ages 5-11, kids under age five are free. For more information call the Fair office at (813) 621-7821.

DOGGIES OF THE WILD WEST
Daily at 11 a.m., 1 and 4 p.m., Cowboy Gary Noel entertains young and old alike with his pooches from the prairie on the Washington Mutual Children’s Stage. The show features comedy canines performing exciting stunts and takes you on an adventure back to the days of frontier times. All the dogs in the show have been rescued from animal shelters and now entertain audiences across the country with Noel.

MILKING PARLOR, & MOOTERNITY WARD
If you’ve always wanted to try milking a cow, here’s your chance. Visit the Salute to Agriculture Tent for the experience and take home an “I milked a cow” ribbon just for participating. Milk this opportunity at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. daily.
Also, visit the Mooternity Ward where many cows are ready to deliver--there’s a good chance you will witness the miracle of birth. The mothers-to-be will be comfortably housed in the Salute to Agriculture tent, on a raised platform so it’s easier for you to see this incredible sight. A sow and her piglets can also be found huddled closely inside the building. Farmers and ranchers explain the growth and development of their animals.

PUREBRED DOG EXHIBITION
See a wide variety of purebred dogs and visit with the owners to learn about the breeds. The 4-H youth dog show happens each Fair day at 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. in the Purebred Dog Tent just east of the Agricultural Showcase Building.

LIVESTOCK BARNS
A variety of more than 5,000 animals are on display – from beef and dairy cattle, to sheep and goats, hogs, rabbits and poultry. Fair visitors have the chance to learn about different breeds, their husbandry and general care daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

THE EQUINE ENCOUNTER
Held each Fair day, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center, guests will have a chance to learn the basics of grooming and horse care from the experts.

GREYHOUND ADOPTIONS
Greyhound Rescue & Adoptions of Tampa Bay (GREAT) will be at the Florida State Fair from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. starting Thursday through the 19th. Visit retired racing greyhounds and meet adoptive and foster parents. For more information, call (813) 971-4732 or visit http://www.great-greyhound.org.

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Labrador retriever, Yorkshire terrier and boxer are the Bay area’s top dog breeds, in that order, according to 2006 figures from the American Kennel Club.

The rest of the area’s top 10, in order of popularity, are: golden retriever, German shepherd, dachshund, poodle, Shih Tzu, Rottweiler and Chihuahua.

It turns out that Bay area dog lovers have a lot in common with dog lovers across the country, with eight of the top 10 breeds locally also making the national top 10.

The two dogs on the local list that didn’t make the cut nationally are the Rottweiler and Chihuahua. The two that made the national list that didn’t make the local list are the beagle and miniature schnauzer.

At the national level, Labrador retrievers also top the list, which the breed has done every year since 1991.

The tiny Yorkshire terrier, or Yorkie, was the second most popular on the national list, bumping the golden retriever and the German shepherd.

Here’s the nation’s top 10 list, in order: Labrador retriever, Yorkshire terrier, German shepherd, golden retriever, beagle, dachshund, boxer, poodle, Shih Tzu and miniature schnauzer.

Local dog owners seem divided on whether “big hair” is back, with five out of the top 10 favorites sporting long coats.

So why are these breeds so popular? Here’s a little information to acquaint you with these breeds.

Labrador retriever: These dogs are ridiculously friendly. Bred to be working gun dogs, they can go from the hunt to the family room with style and ease. A gentle nature makes them good pets when kids or seniors are in the household.

As pups, they are wildly energetic and often don’t “get a grip” until age 2. Labs have big appetites and need lots of exercise. They are silly and drool a lot.

Yorkshire terrier: This is the pooch most likely to be found in a tote bag! These dainty dogs require regular grooming to maintain their diva-dog reputation. When unkempt, the Yorkie resembles a large rat.

This is a delicate dog that makes a great companion for adults but may be too fragile for young children. They make great apartment dogs because they don’t need much exercise.

Boxer: This is a playful breed and quite patient with children. Instinctively a guard dog, the boxer is alert and self-assured.

These dogs generally have a super temperament with family and are initially wary of strangers.

Golden retriever: Friendly, reliable and trustworthy, this dog makes a fabulous companion.

The retrievers are highly intelligent and often chosen to be assistance dogs for those with disabilities. Goldens are friendly, good-natured and great with children of all ages. They have a big appetite and require regular exercise.

German shepherd: Strong, agile, intelligent animals, shepherds are known to be fearless and loyal. They make excellent working dogs for law enforcement, military, guiding and search and rescue. They also make great family pets.

Dashchund: These dogs are sometimes called “hot dogs” because of their long, low-to-the-ground body. They come in standard and miniature sizes.

They are clever, spunky dogs with attitude! They were bred for hunting, specializing in below-ground work.

Poodle: These dogs come in three sizes: standard, miniature and toy. Each one is an active, intelligent dog with a unique, curly, hairlike coat that sheds very little.

Poodles are proud dogs and carry an air of distinction. They are gentle companions and can do well with kids, as long as they are taught to be handled carefully.

Shih Tzu: These dogs (pronounced sheet-zoo) were bred to be companions and house pets. Chinese ancestry held the lively, happy dog as a prized palace pet. These dainty diva types have a beautiful, long flowing double coat that requires frequent brushing and professional grooming to maintain a glamorous look.

The Shih Tzu is very friendly, affectionate and trusting pet.

Rottweiler: These dogs are known to be confident and courageous. They instinctively protect home and family and have a “wait-and-see” attitude when it comes to making new friends.

Their strength may prove too much for small children to play with, but Rotties can be dependable, loving pets.

Chihuahua: This cute little Mexican dog is perfect for urban living or for apartment dwellers because of its size. Chihuahuas have a saucy personality and, because of their alertness, can be great watchdogs.

With more than 150 breeds to choose from, it is hard to decide which would be ideal for your family.

To get more information, there are plenty of books available that focus on specific breeds, or you can visit the AKC’s Web site at http://www.akc.org.

Since there’s no registry for mixed-breeds, there’s no way to which are the most popular.

Because they are not exposed to genetic deficiencies that result from overbreeding, mixed beeds tend to be healthier than purebred dogs.

Mutts also tend to be more even-tempered than some purebred varieties.

Mutts are also readily available and inexpensive at your local animal shelter or rescue organization. For a list of local animal agencies, go to TBO.com, keyword: Pets, or http://www.petfinder.com.

Hybrids have nationally rocketed in popularity in recent years. Pet Cetera will delve into the canine-hybrid phenomenon in a future column.

CRITTER CALENDAR
Shot And Microchip Clinic

Animal Coalition of Tampa offers reduced-cost vaccinations and microchipping services for dogs and cats by appointment Friday.

The clinics are available the first and third Fridays of each month. The ACT clinic is located at 1719 Lemon St. in Tampa. For information, call (813) 250-3900 or go to http://www.actampa.org.

Kristen Levine can be reached at Fetching Communications, P.O. Box 222, Tarpon Springs FL 34688; fax to (727) 934-6451; or e-mail .

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Pets, like people, have places to go and need safe, reliable transportation.

With 69 million pet owners in the country, chances are you or someone you know owns a pet. And those pets need to get to the groomer, the vet or the dog park or along on the family vacation.

So it’s good to know what precautions to take to ensure the safety of our traveling pets.

Rule No. 1: Make sure your pets are restrained in the car.

Veterinarian Lee Burstiner, an emergency clinician at Brandon Veterinary Specialists, knows what happens when people don’t.

He has treated pets that have bounced out of truck beds, suffered injuries to their eyes because of flying debris or fell onto the road because car doors were not closed.

Besides restraining your pets, it’s also a good idea to lock doors and roll up windows while traveling (with the air conditioning on, of course).

Every year, about 1.5 million accidents are caused by distraction - and pets are the third biggest distraction in cars, say statistics complied by Cars.com, an online resource that helps consumers buy cars.

Unrestrained pets can hop from window to window and from front seat to back seat. They can dive into the floorboard and block the driver from hitting the gas or brakes.

Luckily, there are plenty of products on the market that make it easy to buckle up Bowzer.

There are harnesses of all sizes to buckle dogs safely into the seat or cargo area of a car.

Canine-designed car seats hook into the car’s existing seat belt system and have a safety hook that attaches to the pet’s harness. Many pet car seat models are elevated, allowing for the pet to gaze out the window.

Owners of larger breed dogs may find a barrier system to be most effective. Dividers can be purchased to contain your pet in the cargo area. They generally go behind the last row of seats in an SUV, extending to the ceiling and creating a safe, enclosed space for pets.

However, if the dog has too much space in a cargo area, additional forms of restraint will prevent it from being tossed about in an accident.

Securing cats and other small critters can be simple. Select a sturdy travel (or airline) kennel that is the right size for your pet. Be sure that the carrier is not too big. Remember, the pet should just have room to stand up and turn around comfortably.

Harness systems are available that will buckle the kennel securely into the back seat or cargo area of the vehicle. That way, kitties or other critters are confined, but the enclosure will not be launched if there’s a collision.

It should be obvious that it’s a bad idea to transport a pet in a truck bed, flatbed or convertible. Pets are safer when confined within the vehicle.

However, you can legally transport your pet in an open vehicle if it is confined by a secured, well-ventilated container of proper size or properly tethered.

However, keep in mind that inadequate tethering can lead to another tragic outcome if the pet is launched from the vehicle during a collision and dragged by the car.

You also should be sure to have a collar on your pet and a leash available, in case you need to leave your vehicle. And be sure to have current identification tags and a permanent microchip on your pet, in case you become separated.

It’s also important not to leave a pet unattended in a car. Even when the windows are slightly cracked for ventilation, the interior heat in a car can become deadly in 15 minutes or less. Both Hillsborough and Pinellas counties have ordinances that prohibit you from leaving pets alone in a vehicle.

Beyond keeping your pet safe, you can also help keep it from becoming sick while traveling.

“Generally, problems will happen within the first few miles,” explains veterinarian Steven Odland of Woodland’s Animal Hospital in Oldsmar.

If your pet isn’t used to auto travel and you have a trip planned, Odland suggests taking it for short car rides on an empty stomach in advance of your departure.

“Just like you wouldn’t eat before going on a roller coaster ride, we suggest fasting your pet the night before and giving a little water before your trip to avoid car sickness,” Odland suggests. “Fasting works better than medication in most circumstances.”

Pets that drool, whine, pace and pant in the car probably are good candidates for sedation. Talk to your family veterinarian about options in advance of your trip so that you can do a “trial run.”

If you’re looking for pet restraints, a recent issue of Fido Friendly magazine offers this list of suppliers:

Ruff Rider - Specially designed safety restraints; (720) 249-2986, http://www.ruffrider.com.

Snoozer Pet Products - Comfort and elevated seating; 1-800-635-9755, http://www.snoozer petproducts.com.

Fido Rido - For smaller dogs; 1-877-709-2154, www .fidorido.com.

Tug N Hug - Pet harness goes from car restraint to walking harness; (520) 366-0445, http://www.tugnhug.com.

Hunter K-9 - Travel gear including restraints; 1-866-878-7795, http://www.hunterk9.com.

BatziBelt - Seat belts and truck belts; (714) 52-8413, http://www.batzi.com.

CRITTER CALENDAR

All About Puppies

Discover everything you need to know about raising your new puppy from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday at Azalea Recreation Center, 1600 72nd St. N., St. Petersburg. Stop Pet Overpopulation Together (SPOT) is sponsoring this seminar, which covers house training, crate training, basic nutrition and exercise, and how to handle chewing, barking, jumping, biting and escaping.

The speaker will be trainer Maria Ryan.

The seminar is free for SPOT members or a $5 donation for nonmembers. To reserve a seat, call (727) 545-3463 or go to http://www.spotusa.org.

Big Dog, Cool Cat Day

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If dogs went to work in office buildings, the talk around the water bowl this week would be about “Wolf to Woof,” a comprehensive canine exhibit that opens Friday at the Florida International Museum in St. Petersburg.

“Wolf to Woof: The Story of Dogs” is a large traveling exhibit that tells the story of dogs from every angle. It traces their history, details their biology and explains their evolution, according to Wonderworks Exhibition Co., the show’s creator.

“To see how dogs have impacted our lives starting 12,000 to 15,000 years ago is an incredible story,” says Jack Hall, president of Wonderworks. “And no other single species in the animal kingdom has the incredible diversity of shapes and sizes that we see in dogs. It’s so amazing.”

As a dog lover, I am drooling over the chance to learn more about the history and science of my best friends.

Museum director Kathy Oathout is also excited about the exhibit’s arrival.

“Certainly, it will attract pet lovers, but we’re hoping it will bring a greater appreciation for dogs and their origins, as well as help people interact with their own dogs as pets,” Oathout says.

“Wolf to Woof” runs through May 13. St. Petersburg is the first stop on a nationwide tour.

Let’s embark on a preview of the exhibit.

How Bond With Humans Began
Some scientists speculate that toward the end of the last Ice Age, roughly 15,000 years ago, a wolf wandered into a human community looking for food. Other experts believe that man and wolf had relationships that began thousands of years earlier, and at some point along the way, humans began raising baby wolves.

Whatever the origin, “Wolf to Woof” can help you gain a better understanding of the human-canine bond.

“Wolf to Woof” features four themed sections that include multimedia displays, photos, artifacts and various interactive components.

At the “howling area,” you’ll listen to canine recordings and guess what the dogs are saying. Or you can climb into an avalanche scene to witness what it feels like to be saved by a search-and-rescue dog.

One themed area focuses on the amazing variety of dogs - shapes, sizes, colors, coats and personalities. Hundreds of domestic breeds have been created by humans through the breeding of dogs for jobs, appearance or personality.

From the tiny Chihuahua to the enormous St. Bernard, this section showcases dogs’ versatility, geographical origins and history.

Next, we are reminded that there is a little wolf in every dog. Recent fossil and genetic evidence has confirmed that all modern-day dogs are descendants of wolves, according to Wonderworks. Here, you can explore why dogs and wolves do the things they do and how and when they behave in similar or different ways.

Providing Mutual Benefits
A third area highlights how dogs help us. From their high-powered sense of smell to their amazing stamina, dogs have made life easier for humans. Jobs that dogs have held through the centuries include hunting, herding, guarding, protection and detection.

Today’s dogs also may serve as assistants to those with disabilities, and some even have amazing abilities that allow them to detect termites in homes or even cancer in people.

Of course, the most common dog job title is “companion” to humans.

The last section of the exhibit asks what we can do to help dogs.

This area takes a close look at the problems our modern world poses for wild canines, such as pollution, hunting and habitat destruction, and it explains how we tackle these problems. Visitors also will learn how we can help domestic canines through responsible pet ownership.

The museum has partnered with the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Tampa Bay to offer programs that connect with the stories portrayed in the exhibit. The shelter also will benefit from the exhibit. If you purchase your tickets online ( http://www.floridamuseum.org), be sure to enter promotion code “SPCAT” so $1 from your purchase will go to the SPCA Tampa Bay.

Master Trainer Presents Program
As a special treat, the museum will host Practical Canine Behavior Solutions from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 20 featuring Brian Kilcommons, a nationally known master trainer, author and lecturer.

Besides learning about the history of canines, you can also add something to the exhibit. Bring a photo of your favorite four-legged friend to place in a space reserved for visitors to leave behind pictures honoring their own human-dog bond.

Some interesting tidbits from the exhibit:

•The world’s largest, heaviest and longest dog recorded was an Old English Mastiff named Zorba. In 1989, Zorba weighed 343 pounds and was 8 feet 3 inches long from nose to tail.

•Dogs and humans are the only beings with prostates.

•The United States and France have the most pet dogs. Almost one in three families in these countries owns a dog.

•The bloodhound is the only animal whose evidence is admissible in an American court of law.

•The normal body temperature for a dog is 101.2 degrees.

•There are more than 65 million dogs in the United States.

•The basenji, an African wolf dog, is the only dog that cannot bark.

•Chihuahuas are born with a “molera,” or soft spot like a human baby, which usually closes as they mature.

•A dog can hear sounds 250 yards away that most people cannot hear beyond 25 yards. Some authorities estimate that a dog’s sense of smell is 1 million times greater than humans’.

•Survivors of the Titanic included two dogs: a Pekingese belonging to Henry Sleeper-Harper and a Pomeranian belonging to Margaret Hays.

“Wolf to Woof” is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. The museum is at 244 Second Ave. N. Admission is $17; $15 for seniors and military; $5 for students; free for ages 7 and younger.

For details, call (727) 341-7901 or go to http://www.floridamuseum.org.

CRITTER CALENDAR
Florida’s Top Dog Show

There’s free admission to Florida Classic Clusters today through Tuesday and Thursday through Jan. 21 (no show Jan. 17) at Florida Classic Park in Brooksville. The event features American Kennel Club all-breed dog shows, obedience trials, rally trials and even free tours to learn about AKC dog shows.

Visitors can go behind the scenes to learn how a dog is judged, meet dog handlers and more. Vendors will sell everything from pet jewelry and toys to dog food and treats. Pets will be available for adoption from local rescue groups.

Florida Classic Clusters runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Florida Classic Park is at 5360 Lockhart Road. Parking is $4. Monday is “Kids Day,” with free baseball caps to the first 100 children; Thursday is “Senior Day,” offering free parking for seniors. For information, call (813) 215-3580 or go to www

.floridaclassicpark.com.

Flea-Less Garage Sale

The Humane Society of Pinellas hosts a “Flea-less” garage sale from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday and Jan. 20 at the shelter, 3040 State Road 590, Clearwater. A variety of items will be on sale, from pet supplies to household items to computers. For information, call (727) 797-7722 or go to http://www.humanesociety

ofpinellas.org.

Dachshund Rescue At Show

Join the Coast to Coast Dachshund Rescue from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Jan. 20 and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 21 at the Florida State Fairgrounds RV Show, 4800 N. U.S. 301, Tampa. There will be adoptable and foster dogs available, items for sale and information about the nonprofit group. For information, go to http://www.c2cdr.org.

Kristen Levine can be reached at Fetching Communications, P.O. Box 222, Tarpon Springs FL 34688; ; or fax to (727) 934-6451.

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Tanner Norris of Blanton went with his family to the dog show to look for a dog, but he found himself drawn to the world of show dogs.

He was almost 13 at the time, and two short years later he won second place in junior showmanship at the 2006 AKC/Eukanuba National Championship in Tampa.

Blanton, who is now 16, also reigns as the state’s top junior handler.

“Originally, we went to the dog show looking for a pet puppy,” says Tanner’s mom, Cherry Norris. “We stayed and watched the shows and Tanner said, ‘Mom, I think I’d like to do this.’ It just clicked.”

Mary Manning, coordinator for the Florida Classic Clusters, says, “Any child can show a dog.”

Her group will host the largest dog show in the state this month in Brooksville. Unlike some sports, this pastime doesn’t require a child to be of a particular size, Manning notes.

“It’s a very nondiscriminating sport. A child that may not be able to play football may be able to show a dog,” she says.

It’s also a family-oriented sport and one that prohibits poor sportsmanship and swearing, Manning says.

“It’s a wholesome sport,” she says. “I try to encourage people with children to get involved because it’s healthy, boosts confidence and encourages camaraderie.”

There are 763 junior handlers in Florida and more than 16,000 nationwide.

Tanner Heads To State Show
Next weekend, Tanner will show his Australian shepherds, 4-year-old Coda and 2-year-old Renegade, at the Florida Classic Clusters in Brooksville. He will compete in best of breed and junior showmanship.

Tanner and Coda began their show career together in 4-H, where Tanner learned much of what he knows about dogs.

Most recently, he became the No. 2 junior at the Eukanuba competition last month in Long Beach, Calif. In February, he will compete at Westminster in New York.

Tanner says he learned mostly by watching other competitors who do well in shows.

“I never officially had showmanship training,” he says.

Tanner’s mom is especially proud of his accomplishments because he has a severe reading disability that results from dyslexia and binocular vision dysfunction.

One of the skills he has developed by showing dogs is time management, Cherry Norris says.

“He has to move from one ring to the next, have the dog ready and groomed - sometimes there’s just a few seconds in between. He has to set up his own scheduling; I don’t do that for him,” she says.

Competing requires diligence, she says. “You have to be committed to the dogs.”

So what do child competitors do at a dog show?

Handlers Judged More Than Dogs
For those ages 9 to 18, junior showmanship is a great way to compete.

Children are judged solely on their handling ability, how well-manicured they are and how well they present the dog.

“It’s all about the junior,” Manning explains. “It has very little to do with the dog, although the dog does need to be AKC registered, well-trained and clean.”

Junior competitors need to have several appropriate outfits and be well-groomed.

If you think your child may have interest in this sport, Manning suggests attending various dog shows to learn about the breeds, watch the junior handlers and absorb the show environment.

“Talk to breeders and find out which dog may be right for you,” she suggests.

Some dogs are lower maintenance than others, particularly when it comes to grooming. One breed may only need a bath and a nail trim, while another may need much greater care. A standard poodle, for instance, can take eight hours to groom.

Since cleanliness is a big factor in judging, it is important to choose a dog whose grooming needs can be met by the child.

Lee Canalizo of Palm Harbor, who has been judging dogs worldwide for more than 30 years, hopes dog showing will become more popular with children.

“Showing teaches kids responsibility,” Canalizo says. “It gives them something to concentrate on and teaches them to win or lose gracefully.”

The pursuit of showing dogs requires a commitment of time and consistent involvement and sometimes influences career choices, Canalizo says. “Many of these kids become veterinarians, dog handlers and judges.”

Tanner would like to be a homeopathic veterinarian one day.

To learn more about showing dogs, attend a free “behind the scenes” tour at the Florida Classic Clusters, featuring American Kennel Club All-Breed Dog Shows, obedience trials and rally trials.

Event hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily from Jan. 13 to 21 except Jan. 17, when there is no show.

The tours offer information about dog shows: why they exist, how points are accumulated, what grooming requires and what judges look for in the ring. For an extra incentive, on Jan. 15, the first 100 children to take the tour will receive a free baseball cap.

Florida Classic Clusters takes place at Florida Classic Park, 5360 Lockhart Road, Brooksville.

Admission is free, and parking is $4. For information, call (813) 217-1395 or go to http://www.floridaclassicpark.com.

Learn more about how to introduce kids to showing at http://www.akc.org/kids_juniors.

CRITTER CALENDAR
Pet Pal Rescue Adoptions

Visit adoptable pets from Pet Pal Rescue from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 13 at the Saturday Morning Market, Central Avenue at Second Street in downtown St. Petersburg.

The Morning Market also offers fresh produce, baked goods, hand-crafted wares, live music, vendors and more. For information, go to http://www.petpalrescue.com.

Stop Pet Overpopulation

Neuter or spay your pet in 2007. SPOT (Stop Pet Overpopulation Together) and Pinellas County veterinarians kick off a Neuterathon, offering low-cost spay-neuters for dogs and cats from Jan.15 to 31.

Spay-neuter surgeries for male cats cost $35; female cats, $40; male dogs, $40; and female dogs, $45 to $90 depending on weight. For information, call (727) 545-3463 or go to http://www.spotusa.org.

SPCA Auction and Mutt Extravaganza

The SPCA Tampa Bay presents Kibbles ‘n Bids Mutt Extravaganza and silent auction fundraiser from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday at the Sirata Beach Resort, 5300 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. Dogs are welcome and can enjoy special pampering, pet massages, professional photos, a pet psychic and more. The “Putting on the Dog Pageant” encourages pet owners to dress up their dog and compete for prizes.

Proceeds will go toward providing food, shelter and medical care for more than 15,000 homeless and abused animals. To purchase tickets or for information, call Maria at (727) 586-3591, Ext. 163, or go to http://www.SPCATampaBay .org.

Kristen Levine can be reached at Fetching Communications, P.O. Box 222, Tarpon Springs FL 34688; e-mail