SPECIAL EVENT! Pamper yourself AND your Pooch this Sunday!

Pamper yourself AND your Pooch this Sunday!

Who: You and your pooch(s)

What: Unisex Grooming (nails, eyebrows, lash extensions, facials, waxing...) for people. Mobile Pet Groomer, Cathy, will be on site to take care of your dog!

Where: Kings & Queens Unisex Grooming Bar
7223 Melrose Ave
Hollywood, CA. 90046
http://kingsandqueensla.com/

When: Sunday, 12pm-6pm

Why: Because you deserve it and Ace of Hearts gets 20% of sales for people grooming, and 100% for dog grooming!

Please spread the word!

Dog-fighting ring busted at day care center

Blood spattered the garage of a home day care in Chicago Ridge, Ill., that was also the base of an alleged dog- fighting ring, authorities said Wednesday, describing battered and malnourished dogs and the devices used to train them found not far from where children played.

Police said four people were arrested, and felony dog-fighting charges are pending against several of them, including the day care operator's husband. Authorities did not immediately release their names.

Nine battered dogs - four of which were puppies - were rescued, police said.

"The dogs were in horrific condition," Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart said at the Animal Welfare League in suburban Chicago Ridge, where several of the dogs were undergoing surgery and rehabilitation. "This is as bad as we've seen."

Dart said approximately 10 children were found in the day care during the raid Tuesday, but they were not in the immediate vicinity of the dogs.

Illinois Department of Children and Family Services spokesman Kendall Marlowe said the Maywood day care was shut down Wednesday and was under investigation. He said it had been licensed since March 2004 and for a capacity of seven children.

Humane responders take on task of socializing 500 dogs from raid

On Sunday, a team of 11 Red Star Animal Emergency Services responders from the American Humane Association will return to a shelter near St. Louis to help care for and socialize some 500 dogs that were rescued in a July dogfighting raid, the biggest in U.S. history, which spanned Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Nebraska and Texas.

This news comes on the heels of guilty pleas from Robert Hackman, Teddy Kiriakidis, Ronald Creach and Michael Morgan entered Monday to conspiracy and other crimes, admitting their roles in breeding, trafficking, fighting and killing pit bulls in a lucrative dogfighting network, the Associated Press reports. A fifth co-defendant, Jack Ruppel, pled guilty Sept. 4.

During the raid, agents also seized "rape stands" used to strap female dogs into place to be bred. One hundred puppies have been born since the raids.

Breeding is crucial to the industry because fighting dogs don't live long, says Tim Rickey, director of the Humane Society of Missouri's anti-cruelty task force.

The Humane Society of Missouri staff "is outstanding," says Red Star Animal Emergency Services program manager Tracy Reis. "This temporary shelter is one of the best run that I've seen. They've been working this shelter since the beginning and are tireless in their efforts to care for these dogs. I'm proud that they've asked us to help."

New video from the Humane Society of Missouri shows dogs chained and caged with ribs showing, lips chewed and legs missing:

"To know that three-legged dogs were forced to fight for their survival is too much," said Rickey.

Adopt Destiny

This little sweetie was rescued from a shelter up North. Destiny is the cutest little angel in the world.

Destiny is about two months old and will grow to be around forty lbs. She is going to be a great family dog. She has a very sweet and gentle spirit. If you are interested in adopting this one of a kind little angel, then feel free to contact. me at 213-840-0153 or feel free to email me at Dawn@BarkAveLA.com

More about Destiny ...

Available for Adoption

Black with White

Medium

Good with Dogs

Good with Cats

Good with Children

Up-to-date with vaccines

Location: 90007

E Mail Dawn@BarkAveLA.com.

Adopt Fiona

Dogs Okay, Children (8 years and up), High Energy, Puppy Classes Required At Owner's Expense

DATE IN:	9/5/09
FROM:	Public Intake
DOB:	7/3/09
BREED:	Female, Mixed Breed

Adoption Manager – ext. 103
Alice@petorphans.org
Phone: (818) 901 - 0190

Vaccine clinics

Vaccine Clinics

Burbank

VCA Animal Hospital
(818) 845-7246

Culver City

Sepulveda Animal Hospital
(310) 397-0774

Downey

Southeast Area Animal Control
(714) 935-6848
SEAACA.org

Los Angeles

Ambassador Dog and Cat Hospital
(213) 384-1255

Center Sinai Animal Hospital
(310) 559-3770

Larchmont Animal Clinic
(323) 463-4889

Robertson Animal Hospital
(310) 657-7050

Stray Cat Alliance
(310) 281-6973

VCA Petville Animal Hospital
(310) 313-9118

Santa Monica

VCA Santa Monica Dog and Cat Hospital
(310) 453-5459

VCA Wilshire Animal Hospital
(310) 828-4587

LA Tails | Celebrating the relationship between pets and their people

LA Tails | Celebrating the relationship between pets and their people

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Please adopt me!

I am a 3.5 yr old American Bulldog mix who was rescued from Hurricane Katrina. I am very loving guy, great in the house and gentle with children. I am not so affectionate with other dogs which allows me to give all my love to you.

I am looking for a foster home, or better yet, a permanent home.
Watson is up-to-date with routine shots, house trained and spayed/neutered

• Ace of Hearts
• Beverly Hills, CA
• 310-358-3344

Ace of Hearts Adoption Schedule

Come visit us!

Our adoption days are normally held every Saturday at Pet Co. in West Hollywood at 508 N. Doheny on the south East corner of Doheny and Santa Monica Blvd. from 1 to 4 pm.

ACE OF HEARTS ADOPTION SCHEDULE for 2009
The following are the dates for our adoptions through the month of December:

September - 26th October - 10th, 24th November - 7th, 21st December - 5th, 19th

We do show dogs on the weekends that we are not at Petco, after the interested party has filled out the online application (by appointment only). IMPORTANT - because our schedule is subject to change, please email us if you have any questions, and we can fax you the current schedule and info.

The Secrets Inside Your Dog\'s Mind

The Secrets Inside Your Dog\'s Mind

Homeless dogs will benefit every time Michael Vick is tackled

Homeless dogs will benefit every time Michael Vick is tackled

By MJD

I've gotta give some love to Philadelphia's Main Line Animal Rescue. They once planned to put their money and energy into billboards bashing Vick, but then came up with a better idea: taking advantage of Michael Vick's(notes) reinstatement to do some good for homeless doggies.

According to Marcus Hayes of the Philadelphia Daily News, Main Line Animal Rescue is buying ad space in newspapers in the cities to which Vick will travel during the NFL season, pledging to donate five bags of dog food to a local animal shelter every time someone tackles Vick. They're also asking people to volunteer at local shelters on Vick game days.

The ad you see to your right ran in today's Washington Post.

I wholeheartedly support the campaign, and it sounds like the exact type of thing I'd have recommended for an animal activist group. It's going to benefit dogs in need (provided Michael Vick ever sees any game time; and I'd also add the stipulation that a Vick interception means 10 bags of dog food), it's not destructive or disruptive in any way, it doesn't make anyone look mean-spirited, and it doesn't let Vick off the hook, either.

The only way it goes bad is if Vick is hit and suffers some debilitating injury. and they end up celebrating a man's paralysis by giving a gift of dog food. That would be awkward for everybody. But that's a longshot, and I don't think anyone wants to see that happen.

Main Line Animal Resuce is using Vick to advance their cause, which they absolutely should, and they're doing so in a way that's 100% positive. Hooray for homeless doggies.

Dog rescued from Iraq finds loving home in USA

Dog rescued from Iraq finds loving home in USA

How far will people go to rescue cats and dogs? One person, Terri Crisp, has made 23 trips to Iraq to help bring home soldiers' pets.

Maj. Steven Hutchison got tremendous comfort from Laia, according to this Detroit Free Press story, before Hutchison became the oldest victim of the war at age 60 in May. He slept with his arms round the dog. Now, Laia is living in the USA with a family, thanks to Crisp and Operation Baghdad Pups, an effort sponsored by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals International to bring home soldiers cats and dogs.

Even though it's against the military's rules, soldiers are adopting pets in Afghanistan and Iraq, finding the dogs and cats bring themselves and those around them good cheer during difficult times.

Crisp, the program manager for the SPCA, told the Detroit Free Press:

"There may be some people who say, 'You are wasting all that time and money and putting people's lives in danger to go pick up a dog?' " said Terri Crisp, the program manager.

"But these dogs are so much more. ... They have gotten them through some incredibly tough things. ...A lot of the guys will say that when they go out on patrol, the closer they get back to base, they look forward to getting there, because the dog or cat is waiting for them."

Eco-friendly Dog Beds

Attention all Ace of Hearts Volunteers!!

Kari wants to show her appreciation to all of Ace's supporters by offering you 40% off her line of Eco-Frienldy Dog Beds, Greener Pup (www.greenerpup.com.)

These beds are amazing for several reasons!

1. The bed filler is made of recycled plastic bottles. Every bed contains 90-120 recycled plastic bottles that would have ended up in landfills!

2. The cover is made from high end designer fabric that was overstock and destined to end up in a landfill.
3. 100 % of the proceeds go to Ace of Hearts

Not only are you saving the precious Earth, but you are saving dogs lives!

Greener Pup is the perfect Christmas, Hanuka, Birthday, Housewarming, or anytime present! Get one for your favorite furry friend today!

Use promo code 'AceVolunteer' at checkout for your 40% discount!

Dogs get nod in study to help vets with post traumatic stress disorder

A new study is hoping man's best friend can help veterans struggling with post traumatic stress disorder.

The U.S. Department of Defense is starting a 12-month study to find out exactly how the dogs help by comparing soldiers with PTSD who have dogs with a similar group of soldiers without a dog. Researchers will measure changes in symptoms and medication use.

These psychiatric service dogs have been assisting people with a variety of mental illnesses since the late 1990s. About 10,000 such dogs are now in use.

Joan Esnayra, president and founder of the Psychiatric Service Dog Society, has a message on their website for veterans: They have a "soulmate in their dog who is ever loyal and compassionate" and a community that understands them.

And that has the military interested, according to a Kansas City Starstory.

"It's a powerful intervention. We expect a very large effect," research psychologist Craig Love told the Star.

Love will be conducting the study at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center with Esnayra.

The two researchers presented their work Thursday during a military health research conference held this week in Kansas City. Love and Esnayra surveyed 39 people with PTSD who were teamed with psychiatric service dogs.

Eighty-two percent have reported fewer PTSD symptoms since they have had the dogs, and 40% said they were using fewer medications.

Sharon L. Peters wrote about a holiday gift in 2007 for stressed troops in Iraq: two long-eared, highly sensitive black Labrador retrievers that military officials hope will help soldiers navigate the ragged emotions of life in a war zone. They were trained by America's VetDogs.

Save me!!!!

Pure Breed Black Labrador Retriever (Baldwin Park Animal Shelter)

Pure Breed BLACK LAB FOR ADOPTION AT THE BALDWIN PARK ANIMAL SHELTER.

Friendly dog needs a good home. Doesn't have much long before he is put down if he doesn't find a home

Impound No: A4025644 Details

Impound Date: 8/27/2009
Sex: Male
Primary Breed: LABRADOR RETR
Age: 3 Years, 0 Months
Location: BALDWIN

4275 N. Elton
Baldwin Park, CA 91706
(626) 962-3577


Hours:
Monday – Thursday 12 PM – 7 PM
Friday and Saturday 10 AM – 5 PM
Closed Sundays and Holidays

Help this French Bulldog

This french bull dog broke his leg in two places and needs surgery to put a pin in it.. His owner loves him and cannot afford the $1500 surgery. Would any of you animal lovers be will to donate to Max's surgery? All donation will go to East Valley Animal Hospital in Sun Valley. Please contact Delia at the hospital. 818767-7116 . One thousand dollars is still needed.

Rescued needs entropian surgery - Need Donations/ Please rescue/cross post: Ozzie..4 yr old Brindle Sharpei Mix‏

We rescued Ozzie on Friday..the sharpei dropped of at North Central Shelter in a shopping cart! ..new pics attached. We are trying to raise donations for his entropian surgery..he will need it in both eyes. Ozzie also is now looking for his forever home. He is great with people, other dogs and children. He is very well behaved and just a sweet boy!!

Tax Deductible to “ H.E.L.P.” mail to : H.E.L.P. , PO BOX 46431, Los Angeles, CA 90046 OR VIA PAY PAL to ahomeforeverylivingpet@yahoo.com

H.E.L.P. - A HOME for EVERY LIVING PET

P.O. Box 46431, Los Angeles, California 90046

Email: helppets12@gmail.com

Website: http://help.petfinder.com

PayPal address: ahomeforeverylivingpet@yahoo.com

H.E.L.P is a non-profit, 501(c) 3 organization dedicated to saving the lives of animals in the Los Angeles City Shelters. Donations are used to pay for veterinary services for animals in the Los Angeles City Shelters that are sick or injured so that they can become adoptable, as well as foster care for animals that need more time to be adopted.

California Non-Profit # 2366840 EIN# 01-0550471

Adopt Violet

More About Violet
Violet is a pretty little gal. She is just under a year old. She is a mixed breed dog and she looks to us like she has some Shar Pei in her and some Staffie. She was found as a stray and her owners were never located. We named her Violet because of her spectacular little personality. She just lights up a room and the people around her. She is smart, a quick learner and wants to please. Her personality is very easy going and extremely friendly. She gets along with everyone she meets and has very good play manners with other dogs. Violet is good with all ages of children and will make a nice addition into any home situation. Violet is current on her vaccinations, spayed, microchipped and has been de-wormed. Contact Terrell 323-385-8993 or tc2806@hotmail.com.

From 'THE BARK': New Tool for Adoption Efforts

Ozzie, a four-ish Shar Pei-mix with a brindle coat was delivered to a Los Angeles shelter in a shopping cart. The day dog trainer Robert Cabral met him, the dog laid on the floor in total shock. Because of this, Cabral says, Ozzie was “red-listed,” given fewer than seven days before being euthanized. So Cabral administered and videotaped a temperament test, which Ozzie appears to ace, and sent it out into cyberspace.

“Ozzie was saved, as has become the pattern for dogs we feature,” says Cabral, who heads up Bound Angels, a non-profit organization that advocates on behalf of animals, including creating awareness campaigns and educating the public about responsible pet stewardship. Cabral believes rescue has a long way to go in showcasing animals properly on video. “A picture is worth a 1,000 words,” he explains. “People believe what they see, not what they read.”

It’s the first time I’ve seen anything like it, and, if I’m any measure, I’m guessing these sort of videos will be an effective tool in driving adoptions. Ever since I watched the Ozzie spot (and a heart-breaking follow-up), I’ve been plumbing my address book to find a new family for him.

Of course, there are issues. Temperament tests and behavior evaluations have plenty of detractors. Plus, the time and energy involved in taping and posting a test is probably prohibitive for most shelters, and wouldn’t be possible without folks like Cabral. Still, I imagine the impact of seeing a dog behaving well around people, other dogs, even children would be far greater than a couple photos plus a description. Maybe it's an option for those hard-to-place pups.

I ran across Ozzie’s video on Woof in the City, a website/blog created by Stephanie Erney, a 27-year-old administrative assistant in Los Angeles. (It’s always inspiring to see how many people are lending their talents to overtaxed shelter and rescue efforts around the country.) Erney’s two-month-old site is her effort to bring together in one place a complete list of dog rescues in the Los Angeles area (she has 13 so far) and to provide general rescue news information, local calls for support and event notices, and shout-outs for dogs-seeking-forever-homes. It’s a lot of work with a simple goal. She says, “I really hope to get as many dogs adopted as possible.”

---

Adopt Matilda

Matilda

My name is Matilda and I am a 2 year-old PUREBRED American Bulldog. I have had professional training and am very well-behaved. I love people, with the exception of men in uniform (I don't remember why). I am very energetic and need an owner who is both experienced and active. A fun fact about me: I know how to run on a treadmill and can help motivate you for that marathon you've wanted to run. Included in your training I will offer tons of love and affection.

Please consider me. I am in need of a forever home.

Matilda is up-to-date with routine shots, house trained and spayed/neutered

Ace of Hearts
PO Box 2357
Beverly Hills Ca. 90213

Phone: 310-358-3344

Email: dogsfromheaven@aol.com

Ace of Hearts Adoption Fair Schedule

Our adoption days are normally held every Saturday at Pet Co. in West Hollywood at 508 N. Doheny on the south East corner of Doheny and Santa Monica Blvd. from 1 to 4 pm.

ACE OF HEARTS ADOPTION SCHEDULE for 2009
The following are the dates for our adoptions through the month of December:
August - 8, 22, 29
September - 12th, 26th
October - 10th, 24th
November - 7th, 21st
December - 5th, 19th

John Mayer -- One Step Closer To Saving Puppies

John Mayer -- One Step Closer To Saving Puppies

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Adopt me!

BAILEY

Hi, My name is Bailey and I am looking for my own home. I was found wandering the streets and followed a girl home. I am now being fostered by the family but even though they love me, they are unable to have a dog right now. I am a compact little guy..I weigh about 30 pounds and love to go on walks or play in the backyard. I am about 1 yr old and am neutered, housebroken, up to date on all shots and microchipped.

Please consider meeting me!! I am a loving and loyal companion!

CONTACT INFO: helppets12@gmail.com - email

website: : http://help.petfinder.com

Help us find a home together

ADONIS & PICCACHU
Adonis and Piccachu were rescued from the West LA shelter after being turned in by their owner because they were moving! They were very shy and scared in the shelter and did not understand why they lost their home!! They were facing certain euthanasia due to overcrowding....then we stepped in.

They were favorites at the shelter and we know why! They are fabulous dogs. They're extremely bonded and need to go to a home together. They are really sweet, well mannered and like to just hang out with you. They walk very well on the leash, get along with dogs of all sizes. They are housebroken, up to date on all shots, microchipped and spayed/neutered.
Please help us find them a loving home where they can never worry about being abandoned again!!

CONTACT INFO: email: helppets12@gmail.com
Website: http://help.petfinder.com

Save Ozzy

I am trying to get this sweet man saved from the North Central Shelter. His youtube video is below and I have attached his poster. wwwboundangels.org is networking him.

For more information about this animal, call:
North Central Animal Care and Control Center at (888) 452-7381
Ask for information about animal ID number A1054324

From: boundangels@ gmail. com:

Ozzie is approx 4 year old Shar Pei, possible mix. He was brought into the shelter buy a guy in a shopping cart. The first day I met him he laid on the floor in total shock. Because of this he was red listed. I did a temperament test on him and video'd it. Please watch the youtube video:



He's very sweet, but needs to get out. He's a male, approx 50lbs, very unique and beautiful brindle color. His info is on the pic. A1054324

Thanks...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApxGGz20WXs&feature=channel_page

Looking for a home

DATE IN:
7/22/09
FROM:
Riverside Animal Shelter Transfer
DOB:
2/16/09
BREED:
Female, Retriever X

Dogs Okay, Children (8 years and up), High Energy, Puppy Classes Required at Owner's Expense

for more info and to fill out an application visit http://www.petorphans.org/

Adopt me!!!!

DATE IN:
7/22/09
FROM:
Riverside Animal Shelter Transfer
DOB:
7/5/07
BREED:
Male, Bassett Hound
WEIGHT:
46 lbs.

Dogs Okay, Adult Home Only, Best If Knows Breed, Mandatory Training Classes at Owner's Expense

For more info visit www.petorphans.org

LA Tails | Celebrating the relationship between pets and their people

LA Tails | Celebrating the relationship between pets and their people

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Deadly Dog Flu Spreads: Discovery News

Deadly Dog Flu Spreads: Discovery News

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I need a forever home!

Marcus. One of four male Sheperd mix puppies rescued off the streets of South Los Angeles. These boys are the sweetest most affectionate babies we’ve had in long while. Marcus is 8 weeks old, healthy, playful and smart! He loves playing with his three brothers and his foster momma’s dogs.
Marcus will be vaccinated (up to the point of adoption), neutered and microchiped.
For adoption information, visit our web site at http://www.muttmatchla.org/ or contact us at 323-664-5877.

Adopt Me!!!!

Tiger Lilly showed up on Bark Avenue Foundation's steps, tired and needed refuge. She's 10 months old and has very high energy. She needs a home that can provide her with lots of exercise. Tiger Lilly knows all her basic commands and is currently being trained by a professional trainer.She is up to date on all of her vaccines and is house broken.

E Mail Dawn@BarkAveLA.com

and go to www.barkavenuefoundation.org to fill out an adoption application.

Update on Gipsy!!!

Hello Gipsy Fundable Donators,Thank you so much for your donations, passing the word along, and for your positive energy! As you can see, she is comfortably recuperating, she actually needed a "scope" in one elbow and not 2 acl repairs (which is why it was a lot less than we originally thought). She's doing so well that she needs to wear her training collar because she's pulling on leash! She's even going up stairs. Her movement is being carefully monitored and she should be healed in just 6 weeks! Her foster said that she would adopt her as long as we could take care of her elbow, so thanks to you, she received the needed care, and she is in her Forever Home! She is affectionately known as her Mom's little "piglet"!

DEA, FBI, IRS raid two Westside pot dispensaries; officers shoot a pit bull

DEA, FBI, IRS raid two Westside pot dispensaries; officers shoot a pit bull

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I cannot believe Michael Vick is on my Philadelphia Eagles

(CNN) -- When pro quarterback Michael Vick pleaded guilty to bankrolling a dogfighting operation in 2007, there was a spike in reports of dogfighting in the United States.

One of six dogs recovered from a Sumter County, South Carolina, dogfight waits in a kennel last week.

But when the headlines faded, the blood sport grew stronger and went even more underground, with thugs taking inventive precautions to keep police at bay, animal cruelty experts say.
"They know it's just not smart to have large crowds anymore, so we've seen fights where you've got the two handlers, a referee and Web cams everywhere broadcasting the fight on the Internet," said Mark Kumpf, an investigator based in Ohio who directs the National Animal Control Association.
Fights are also being staged on the move -- in 18-wheelers. "These guys are very sophisticated," Kumpf said. "If you're driving down the road, there could be dogs in that truck driving next to you that are dying."
Dozens more dogfighting cases have been investigated and prosecuted since the Vick case, said Alison Gianotto, who runs the database PetAbuse.com.
The computer programmer, horrified when a neighbor's cat was set on fire eight years ago, created the California-based organization to track animal cruelty cases and animal abusers.
The database, which logs media stories, has also become a popular place for law enforcement to send reports.

"There's not a central body keeping track of what's happening nationally, which is unfortunate when you consider that a lot of these cases cross state lines," she said.
Still, detectives, animal welfare professionals and prosecutors agree that the attention the Vick case has brought to dogfighting has been positive because more people are inclined to report their suspicions. Dogfighting is illegal in all states; penalties vary but usually include heavy jail time or steep fines.
The National Football League suspended Vick indefinitely in August 2007 after he pleaded guilty to a federal charge of bankrolling a dogfighting operation at a home he owned in Virginia. Vick, 29, was freed from federal prison in Leavenworth, Kansas, on May 20 and returned to Virginia to serve the last two months of his 23-month sentence in home confinement.
"At the height of attention on the Vick case, things quieted down across the country with some of these dogfighters getting out of the business," veteran animal abuse investigator Tim Rickey said. "But then, the headlines went away, and people thought the attention was off. It just started right back up, almost stronger than before."
"Every Saturday night in every county in Missouri, there is a dogfight going on," Rickey said.
While the Vick case was making its way through the court system, Rickey, who directs the animal cruelty task force at the Humane Society of Missouri, was initiating what would become an 18-month investigation linking dogfighting rings in eight states.
That probe led to the July 8 arrest of 28 people from eight states. As many as 400 dogs were confiscated in raids coordinated by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, Rickey said. He said it was the largest such case involving dogfighting in the U.S.
While those involved with the national case declined Monday to give details about that investigation, CNN spoke with several detectives across America who have worked other dogfighting cases. Among the abuses they've uncovered:
• Dogs with missing ears and patches of skin
• Animals with teeth shaved down to the bone
• "Vets" who have used leg splints that are to tight to "treat" animals in dogfighting rings
• Contraptions, usually fashioned out of wood, much like a treadmill, that force chained dogs to run or be choked.
Detective Keith Coberly of the police vice squad in Dayton, Ohio, described a case he recently investigated that resulted in the convictions of three men.
A neighbor called police when she saw a mangled dog that had apparently escaped from a home where investigators found 60 chained pit bull terriers, many being starved and wallowing in their own waste. There were thousands of hypodermic needles scattered across the ground.
"They were using steroids on the animals," he said. "There was one dog -- in such bad shape, man -- tethered to a logging chain, and another was kept in a two-foot shed without ventilation or food."
The suffering is incalculable, and the cost of caring for the animals is steep.
Because the national investigation originated in Missouri, the state is harboring about 400 of the rescued dogs, some that have had puppies recently.
"These dogs are bred to attack each other, so just caring for them is a tremendous job. You have to keep them separate, and you have to protect volunteers who are devoting 12, 14 hours of their day," Rickey said. "And we're doing all of that in this economy."
Investigating dogfighting is dangerous -- and hugely popular in Russian mafia circles and with drug traffickers in Mexico, experts say.
Dogfighting is reliant on word of mouth, and on what one undercover officer described as "bad character" references. "If you can get someone to vouch for you, a match is set up," Kumpf said. "They'll have everyone go to a hotel and come pick you up and drive you around in an unmarked van." Driving around town helps shake any police tail, he said.
Those betting on fights aren't likely to get paid on site any more. Money is often kept at another location, making it more difficult to make arrests.
In late July, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell conditionally reinstated Vick, who said on "60 Minutes" on Sunday night that he cried in prison because of the guilt he felt about dogfighting.
Vick's agent announced Thursday that the former Atlanta Falcon signed a two-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, which reportedly could be worth more than $6 million.
"I hope people realize [dogfighting] is not just about Michael Vick," Rickey said. "It's a lot bigger than him."

Doggies that need homes

Breed: Labrador/Pitt Bull mixAge: YoungOrphan Annie was found digging through trash cans in Playa Del Rey. She is a lab mix and is about 18 months and weighs about 60 lbs. She is in good health but is has been treated for, and is recovering from, an ear infection. She was recently a mother, but we could not find her puppies, so we are assuming she was abandoned without them. She gets along with cats and dogs, and is learning good manners from her foster dog sibling! She is very sweet and has shown no aggression, and has been around children as yong as infants and up to 10 years old and is good with all of them.

Breed: ChihuahuaAge: babyFLEA "F" (Fuzzy) "L" (Loveable) "E" (Extremely) "A" (Adorable) ...and AVAILABLE! My name is Flea and I was born with a crooked leg. I get around fine but my leg could be repaired when I grow up with an orthopedic surgery. The tail end of my spine is not connected to the rest of me and that causes difficulty when I have to go potty. I need to have a laxative twice a day and eat only canned food to keep things moving, I also need my bottom cleaned as my floppy tail gets in the way. Flea is a funny playful, very cuddly little puppy. Flea is not in pain but will need special care, if you have room in your life for a very special little guy and are willing to care for him and keep him safe and comfortable you can put in an application. Yes he is adorable but will you still love him after cleaning his rear for the thousandth time? Flea is a sweet little puppy that has some special challenges and we must do the best we can for him by finding him his special angel who will love him forever. Flea is 4 months old and weighs 2 pounds. He will probably be less than 5 pounds full grown.

Contact: noahsbarkdogs@yahoo.com

The fur flies -- in comfort -- on Pet Airways - Los Angeles Times

The fur flies -- in comfort -- on Pet Airways - Los Angeles Times

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Defunct pet store Pets of Bel Air fined

A default judgment in a lawsuit filed in 2007 against the now-defunct L.A. pet store Pets of Bel Air will award $4.8 million to customers who bought puppies there. The judgment by Superior Court Judge John P. Shook came about eight months after the attorney representing Pets of Bel Air left the case; in the time since the attorney's departure, defendants have failed to respond to court motions.
The lawsuit was filed by attorney Wayne S. Kreger, who purchased a Chihuahua puppy at the store in 2007. Within 12 days, the puppy had died of parvovirus. Later, the suit was amended to include additional plaintiffs who also said they had also purchased sick animals at the store. About the time the plaintiffs moved to classify the suit as class-action, the store quietly removed wording on its website stating that its puppies were not obtained from puppy mills, according to court papers. In October, Shook approved the suit's class-action status.
"We are pleased that the court has held the defendants accountable for their fraudulent advertising and unlawful business practices," Peter J. Farnese, the plaintiffs' attorney, told NBC Los Angeles after Shook's default judgement was announced. "We hope this case has helped to expose the practices of their industry, and that this judgment will protect other consumers and serve as a deterrent to other pet stores in California and elsewhere who obtain puppies from puppy mills."
In December 2007, the Humane Society of the United States disclosed the findings of an undercover investigation it conducted on the store's business practices. Despite the store's claim that its puppies were all obtained from private breeders, the investigation revealed otherwise, demonstrating that many had came from puppy mills. Further, some of the suppliers of Pets of Bel Air's puppies had been cited for their failure to comply with animal welfare regulations, including, in one case, a faulty waste-management system that allowed "the waste to flow out onto the ground and on other animals," the Humane Society said.
Shortly after a press conference in which the Humane Society made its case against Pets of Bel Air, the Los Angeles Department of Animal Services shut down the store for selling puppies without the proper permit and for failing to provide veterinary records to the department. But the store's owner, Tom Demick, told our colleague Carla Hall that he had simply forgotten to pay for the permit and would rectify the situation immediately. As for a video the Humane Society provided as evidence of the store's wrongdoing, Demick called it "twisted" and insisted that the group had "cut that segment short."
According to NBC Los Angeles, Judge Shook will decide later this month how best to notify some 800 other Pets of Bel Air customers (which reportedly have included celebrities like Paris Hilton and Britney Spears) of the judgment.
At least one good thing has come from the pet store's closure: a new pet store, called Woof Worx, opened in its place. Woof Worx, which is owned by a former Pets of Bel Air employee, deals only in needy animals obtained from L.A.-area animal shelters and rescue groups.
-- Lindsay Barnett

Adorable dogs up for adoption!

The Brittany Foundation, a nonprofit humane organization dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of homeless dogs, has several dogs for adoption:

Loren is a four-year old female bully who just returned from a seven-week trip across America with her aunt Michelle, a Brittany Foundation volunteer, to promote homeless pet adoption. (You can check out their adventures at http://blog.dogdaysbook.com). Now she’s looking for her furr-ever person so they can create their own memories! Loren loves people, including children of all ages, and enjoys traveling, going for walks, giving kisses, taking naps, and getting belly rubs. She needs to be the only canine child in the home and comes access to a behaviorist to deal with her separation anxiety. Loren is super smart, well behaved, and eager to please, so if you give her a little training, she’ll soon become the perfect housedog and the sweetest, most affectionate companion you could ask for.






Grant is a five-year old male Sheltie mix who was part of an elderly hoarder rescue. Despite his rough beginning, Grant is a very happy little guy, even with his leg amputated due to injury. This handsome tripod gets around just fine, loves people and loves to please. Grant would make an excellent best buddy for just about anyone.





Dixie is a 10 year-old female black and white shih tzu. We took her in with her sister Pixie when the owner had to go into elder care and was not allowed to bring the dogs with her. How sad. We would like to place Dixie with Pixie if possible. They've been together for 10 years. Both are very quiet, loving, and well-behaved little ladies.

Pixie is a 10 yr old female black and white Shih Tzu, sister to Dixie. Pixie is the smaller of the two (hence the name). She is just as loving, quiet and well-behaved as her sister Dixie. They lost their owner to illness and would love to go into a new home together, if possible.









Application, home check, and fee required for adoption. To inquire about adopting, volunteering, or donating to the Brittany Foundation, call (661) 713-5240 or email Brittany_dogs@yahoo.com. For more information, visit www.brittanyfoundation.com

Adoption festival

Scratch n' Sniff event

** FUN PET ADOPTION FESTIVAL**

Saturday August 8th from 10 AM- 3 PM

LA ANIMAL SERVICES, 3201 LACY ST LA 90031

FOOD, GAMES, PRIZES, GIANT CROCO-SLIDE

~ HUNDREDS OF PETS TO ADOPT ~

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What would you do if you lived in a small apartment in LA and got an unexpected knock on the door from 20 relatives needing a place to stay immediately? That's how the workers at LA's animal shelters must feel *every day* as more homeless kittens, puppies and elderly pets show up at their doors, crowding available boarding space...

One LA Neighborhood Council is doing something to make citizens aware of this problem. The Arroyo Seco Neighborhood Council's (ASNC) first-ever "Neighborhood Pet Adoption Festival" is designed to promote a relatively unknown resource for potential pet-owners in Northeast Los Angeles -- LA's beautiful North Central Care Center, conveniently near the 5 and 110 freeways!

Don't miss what is guaranteed to be the BEST pet festival in Los Angeles, loaded with Fun and Games, Free Prizes, Adorable Pets for Adoption, Food, Rides, Balloon Art, Pet Supply Vendors and much much more! Bring your doggie and see if potential housemate(s) are compatible!

Climb up into our giant inflatable crocodile's mouth and slide down his throat as he GULPS you -- this fun ride is for children and adults alike!

The new state-of-the-art LA animal shelter is located at 3201 Lacy St, LA 90031 (2 blocks east of Figueroa off Ave 26) and is the ONLY shelter service Northeast LA communities. Don't go to a pet store when there is a resource in your own backyard.

To find out more details of this fun pet fest, visit:

http://www.hermonLA.org/Pet_Adoption_Festival.html

4 Adorable dogs that need homes

Frieda
"Hello, my name is Frieda and I'm a medium-sized American Bulldog. My pal Vera and I were rescued from the same situation--thank you Ace of Hearts! In spite of the troubles I endured, I am very trusting and super affectionate. I just want to be close and snuggle up to you. I'm calm, gentle and sweet, and on top of all that, I get along great with other dogs. I am obedient on a leash and will go at your pace. I'm still learning my basic commands and would love your help learning more! Will you please adopt me?"

Vera

"Hello! I'm Vera and I'm a young America Bulldog seized by Animal Control from an abusive situation. I may have endured neglect and abuse, but that hasn't changed my sweet disposition! I am a little shy in new situations and am looking for a patient family who will help me build up my confidence. I'm such a sweetheart and I'd love to be a part of your family forever!"

Prince
"Hi, my name is Prince and I'm a handsome, 5 year-old American Bulldog/Mastiff mix. I'm sweet and obedient, but I do weigh 95 pounds and am pretty strong, so I need an experienced dog owner. I must have my daily walks to keep me healthy and happy. I like my routine, and I guarantee you'll like my routine too. And after lots of exercise, I am ready to lounge and sleep through the night. The best situation for me would be a home where I'm the only dog, with no other dogs, cats or children. Can you give me a forever home?"

Willa
"Hey! My name is Willa and I'm a young, medium-sized Canaan mix. Don't I have the cutest ears you've ever seen? I don't mean to brag, but I was a staff and volunteer favorite at the shelter I was in before Ace of Hearts rescued me. I'm an active girl and I love to play with people and other dogs. They also tell me I have herding instincts and I'd be great to take to herding classes. I really need a loving home--can it be yours?"

For more information contact: dogsfromheaven@aol.com

All dogs are spayed/neutered and up to date on their shots!
Please give these special animals a loving home!

Dog Adoption

Sammy

Dogs Okay, Children (8 years and up), Puppy Classes Required at Owner's Expense, High Energy
The essence of "puppyness," Sammy is virtually irresistible. Of course, like all puppies, he'll need the devotion to training necessary to become a well behaved "big boy." But won't you and your kids be so happy to have made the decision to make Sammy a part of the clan? You don't need the summer heat to melt into THOSE eyes!

contact: Alice@petorphans.org

Dog Adoption

Trinity

DATE IN:
6/27/09
FROM:
Public Intake
DOB:
3/2/09
BREED:
Female, Retriever X
WEIGHT:
18 lbs.

Dogs Okay, Children (8 years and up), Puppy Classes Required at Owner's Expense, High Energy

contact: Alice@petorphans.org

Dog Adoption

Ricky

Dogs Okay, Children (8 years and up), High Energy Puppy Classes Required at Owner's Expense
What's that you say? Looking for a big-eared butterscotch and white darling? I heard that loud and clear! I'm a tiny guy, but full of energy (think David Spade). Check out the Jack Russell breed if you're not familiar. I've got places to go and people to see, but I'm hoping my main person is YOU! I'll give you a run for your money, but when I fall asleep in heap in your lap, I'll be able to hear your heart melting – trust me…

Contact: Alice@petorphans.org

Dog Adoption

Paulina

DATE IN:
7/22/09
FROM:
Riverside Animal Shelter Transfer
DOB:
7/15/05
BREED:
Female, Shepherd X
WEIGHT:
53 lbs.

contact: Alice@petorphans.org

Dog Adoption

DATE IN:
4/14/09
FROM:
Owner Surrender
DOB:
7/1/08
BREED:
Male, Miniature Pinscher X
WEIGHT:
11 lbs

At not even a year old, I have really been through it, as you can see from the loss of my eye. But I don't let it bother me. What bothers me, is not having a home. My breed is a wonderful one: the mini version of a maxi-dog. I am very protective and ready to love you forever, but please make sure you can have enough time to let me run around. I need to exercise, and somewhere along the way, I lost my gym membership. I'm smart as a whip and will be your go-to guy, given half a chance. All I need is a super cuddle family with extra love and attention for me.

For more info contact Alice@petorphans.org