Lyn Sherwood has shared her life with bloodhounds for more than 40 years, but it was a mere handful of minutes at this time last year that will stand out forever.

The scene was the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship dog show, and professional handler Ken Griffith had just positioned Sherwood's bloodhound Knotty for the judge's consideration during best in show competition.

At that moment, the microphone that judge Michele Billings was wearing for the live telecast slipped deep into her evening gown. She stepped away from Griffith and the dog to get the situation fixed.

"Three minutes and 42 seconds," said Sherwood. "Knotty was just standing there, with the spotlights so strong. You could feel everybody holding their breath, all 30,000 people. A bloodhound isn't made to stand like a pointer, but he just stood there, waiting. I was in a state of shock."

Griffith, of Shingle Springs, Calif., says he was too busy showing the dog to think about the fix he was in. "I had no idea how long the break was going to be," he said. "I focused on Knotty, on keeping him interested and happy."

What Knotty was thinking about during the unscheduled break at the worst possible time, no one will ever know, of course. But when the judge turned around, Griffith had the dog set up perfectly, and Knotty himself looked straight at the judge, tail tip wagging slowly as if he knew he was by many accounts the most perfect example of his breed ever born.

A few minutes later, the easygoing bloodhound was the national champion.

"A bloodhound has never won any large show like that before," said Sherwood, of Topanga, Calif. "We were just hoping to win the hound group. It never occurred to me that he would win best in show."

A bit of an overstatement, perhaps. After all, Knotty (Champion Heathers Knock on Wood, as he's officially known) was the nation's top hound going into the event, with more than 30 best in show wins to his credit -- a number that's now close to 50. In the more than 150 shows he and Griffith had gone to in the year leading up to the 2005 national championship, the dog had been named the top hound in most of them.

Knotty won't be competing at the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship when it returns to Tampa, Fla., Jan. 14 and 15. But he will be there in a booth set up for him to meet his fans. Handler Griffith has been surprised how many people recognize the dog and love him, wrinkles and all. Knotty routinely gets accosted in airports on the way to dog shows, and he even had his own float in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade. He's happy to see most everyone, says Griffith, and is relaxed in most any situation.

"He's a real ambassador for his breed," says owner Sherwood.

At age 5, the bloodhound has done almost everything a show dog can, which is why he'll be heading to England in March to compete at Cruft's, the world's biggest show, with more than 20,000 canine competitors over the course of the four-day event. The end of England's traditional six-month rabies quarantine a few years back has now made the trip appealing for owners of the world's top dogs.

After Crufts, Knotty will retire to the life any hound dreams of -- lots of naps, and the occasional visit by a female bloodhound.

"Once in a while you see a dog that grabs you," says Griffith, who won't see Knotty much after his retirement. "It's visual at first. And if you're lucky, you get to spend some time with them, and they grab your heart. Knotty will have a special place in my heart, forever."

SIDEBAR

AKC show gains in prestige

For decades, the Westminster Kennel Club dog show served as the de facto national championship. There just wasn't any American show like it. To equal its Big Apple prestige, you'd have to go to England, to the far larger Crufts show. (The 130th Westminster dog show will be held on Feb. 13 and 14, and will be televised on the USA Network.)

The addition five years ago of the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship hasn't cost Westminster any of its luster. But it has added another big prize for the owners and handlers of the world's top show dogs to drool over. (The AKC/Eukanuba show will be held on Jan. 14 and 15, in Tampa, Fla., and will be televised on Animal Planet.)

Q&A

The problem with puggles

Q: I just read about breeders creating designer mixes such as the puggle (pug and beagle mix). The mini dog looks cute. What do you think of this trend? -- M.W., via e-mail

A: I have the same reaction as I do with any "hot" dog, purebred or mixed. When a kind of dog becomes popular, it attracts opportunists who breed as many dogs as they can as quickly as they can without regard to health or temperament. These can be casual, so-called "backyard" breeders, or massive commercial breeding operations, including cruel puppy mills.

We've seen these bursts of popularity with Dalmatians (after the "101" movies), with Chihuahuas (after the Taco Bell dog) and more. Many of these poorly bred and often undersocialized puppies have health and temperament issues that cause problems for their owners. Other pups seem fine, except that they're not the right dog for the people who buy them. The end result is a lot of unhappiness and misery all around, and a lot of formerly trendy pets ending up in the shelters.

Whatever kind of dog you get, purebred or mixed, you must be sure you make the right choice for your family and your living situation. Don't simply pick the flavor-of-the-month pup. Perhaps even more important than choosing the right kind of dog is making sure the source is legitimate, such as a reputable breeder who ensures that all dogs have certified good health and have good temperaments for families.

Socialization is important: Puppies should be raised underfoot in a family situation, not in a cage or kennel run. They should be given lots of gentle and safe opportunities to hear, see and smell new things. And they must be given time to learn important lessons from mother and littermates. (A person who's selling a puppy less than 7 weeks of age is someone who doesn't understand enough about puppy socialization to be given your consideration.)

I guess my problem with puggles, Labradoodles and such isn't so much with the mixes themselves -- although, gee, aren't these prices ridiculous? -- but rather with the breeding practices that often produce them.

But then, I've always said that 90 percent of the people who are selling purebred dogs aren't responsible enough to be breeding those either. I believe there is a place for the responsible breeding of dogs. But those people who don't follow the practices of reputable breeders are just adding to the problems of health and temperament rampant in our pets -- and adding to the flow of unwanted animals to the shelters.

And that's true of purebreds and mixes alike.

No pal for Max

Q: I have a 10-year-old longhaired cat. Although Max is a sweet cat, he will not associate with other animals. Also, he is not a lap cat. He must be sedated when grooming time comes around. It takes three handlers with thick gloves to contain him.

We want to get another cat, hoping the company will change his disposition. The veterinarian advises us against this, stating that Max will not tolerate it. What is your opinion on getting another cat? -- J.A., via e-mail.

I think your veterinarian is right: Max would probably prefer not to share his space with another cat.

Although you did not ask, I think given how difficult it is on Max to go out for grooming, it would be a good idea if you worked to minimize his stress by eliminating as many trips out of the house for him as possible. Keeping Max groomed at home would be best, but if that's not possible, consider having a mobile groomer come to your home.

(Do you have a pet question? Send it to petconnection@gmail.com.)

ON THE WEB

Good, free advice just a click away

If you spend any time searching the Web for pet advice, you're sure to come across sites that try to frighten you by mentioning "secrets" about your pet -- problems that can be cured if you buy the book or CD the Web site's pushing. (One of these pay-to-learn sites charges $5 to get the recipe for a pet-odor eliminator I've written about several times.)

But you don't need to pay for good advice on the Web. One tried-and-true source of information, available in convenient printable format, is the Denver Dumb Friends League (www.ddfl.org). The DDFL's advice section offers information on 29 canine behavior topics and 17 feline ones, plus plenty more on ferrets, rabbits and small pets such as mice, rats and hamsters. There's even a section with information in Spanish.

If you've ended up with a Christmas puppy, you'll be delighted to find out that the DDFL offers a handful of information sheets on such must-know topics as house-training and nipping. There's even advice offered by e-mail or phone through the DDFL's behavior hot line. Information on how to reach the behavior staff is available on the Web site.

THE SCOOP

Cheerful canary a good first pet

The canary is well-known for his vocal talents and vibrant color. Canaries hail originally from the Canary Islands, which were not named for their most famous residents but for the dogs the Romans found there ("canis" is Latin for "dog").

Canaries are actually finches, but few people think of them that way. Wild canaries are green and yellow. Yet the word "canary" usually brings to mind a brilliantly colored yellow bird, thanks, mostly, to the Sylvester-outsmarting cartoon character Tweety Bird.

In fact, canaries come in many colors and varieties, thanks to centuries of selective breeding. Canaries can be sleek or plump in body type, and smooth or puffy when it comes to feathers, with colors from yellow to bright orange to greens and browns. If you want a singer, though, make sure your new bird is a male, because female canaries don't sing.

The canary isn't talked about as much for its pet potential as it used to be. And that's a shame, because the bird is perfect for beginners who aren't sure they want as much interaction as some other pet birds require. The canary is happy to hang out in a cage and entertain you with beauty and song -- no handling desired or required. -- G.S.

PET Rx

Experience, rapport key to good veterinarian

If you're going to have a healthy pet, you need the help of a veterinarian. And although some people believe that these health-care professionals are virtually interchangeable, distinguished only by convenience and price, you may be doing your pet a disservice if you don't put a little effort into choosing the right veterinarian.

Your veterinarian should be technically proficient, current on the latest treatments, and willing to seek out more information on your pet's behalf. A veterinarian should be articulate, able to explain what's going on with your pet in a way you can understand, and willing to answer your questions so you can make a responsible decision on your pet's behalf.

These other factors may help you narrow down your list of possibilities:

-- Is the clinic or hospital conveniently located, with hours you can live with? If you have a 9-to-5 job, a veterinarian with a 9-to-5 clinic doesn't do your pet much good. Many veterinarians are open late on at least one weeknight and for at least a half-day on Saturday, or they're willing to make other arrangements.

-- Does the veterinarian willingly consult with a veterinary college staff or independent or in-house specialists? A willingness to discuss tough cases with colleagues is the sign of a veterinarian who's putting in an effort on your pet's behalf.

-- What kind of emergency care is available, if any? Although emergency veterinary clinics are prepared for any catastrophe, they're not familiar with your pet. If your veterinarian's practice does not offer 24-hour care, does it have a good relationship with one that does?

-- Do you feel a rapport with this person? Are you comfortable asking questions? Do you trust him or her? The final call on whether a particular veterinarian is right for you comes down to intangibles. If you don't feel comfortable, you're less likely to deal with your veterinarian, and the lack of productive communication can hurt your pet in the long run.

(Pet Rx is provided by the Veterinary Information Network (VIN.com), an online service for veterinary professionals. More information can be found at www.veterinarypartner.com.)

BY THE NUMBERS

Rabbits grow in numbers

Always a popular outdoor pet for children, the rabbit has gained interest among those who see the pet as ideal for apartment-dwelling adults. The percentage of small-animal households that have rabbits, by year reported:

1992 24 percent

1994 27 percent

1996 32 percent

1998 40 percent

2000 40 percent

2002 43 percent

2004 43 percent

Source: American Pet Products Manufacturers Association

PET TIP

Pain medications can kill you cat

Never give your cat any medication without clearing it with your veterinarian first.

That's a good rule to remember in general, but in particular, it applies to painkillers. Although you can safely give aspirin to arthritic dogs, the smaller size and different metabolism of cats make aspirin a dangerous proposition for them. And acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, can kill your cat, as can other pain medications, over-the-counter and prescription alike.

If your cat is in pain, call your veterinarian immediately. Cats are very stoic, and if you're noticing your pet's discomfort, he's really suffering and needs immediate care.

The best source of information on what's dangerous for your cat can be found on the Web site of the Animal Poison Control Center (www.aspca.org/apcc). There you'll find lists of unsafe plants, common household products and other potential hazards to your cat's health.

Gina Spadafori is the award-winning author of "Dogs for Dummies," "Cats for Dummies" and "Birds for Dummies." She is also affiliated with the Veterinary Information Network Inc., an international online service for veterinary professionals. Write to her in care of this newspaper, or send e-mail to petconnection@gmail.com. You can also read her frequently updated Web log or view her column archives at www.spadafori.com.

4520 Main St., Kansas City, Mo. 64111; (816) 932-6600

We now know more than ever before about our cats. But a surprising amount of information that's just plain wrong still hangs about in our culture and, worse, keeps popping up as true, and so passes on anew.

Anyone who has ever said goodbye to a cherished companion knows cats don't have nine lives, but some of the other things we think we know about cats sure seem to have at least that many lives. Here are a few of the most enduring feline fallacies:

-- Cats purr when they're happy. Purring is one of the most special elements of a cat, as far as most humans are concerned. Caressing a purring pet has proven to relax the person doing the stroking and lower the blood pressure, too.

But careful observers of the cat know that purring isn't just a sound of contentment. Cats also purr if they're injured, while giving birth -- even when dying. British zoologist Desmond Morris has observed that purring is "a sign of friendship -- either when [the cat] is contented with a friend or when it is in need of friendship -- as with a cat in trouble."

In other words, purring is sort of like smile: Sometimes you smile when you're happy, sometimes when you're hoping a smile will get you out of trouble.

-- Cats will smother babies. You don't need to find a new home for your pet when a baby's on the way, no matter what well-meaning relatives and friends may say to the contrary. Cats do not maliciously smother or suck the breath out of babies.

The myth that they do probably came from their natural curiosity to investigate a new addition to the family, coupled with the tragedy of what's commonly known as crib death. We can easily understand how, in generations past, people may have seen a cat in the crib -- perhaps sniffing at a baby's milk-scented breath -- and later found a dead child and then tried to find an explanation for the loss by linking the two events together.

We now know there's no connection. But common sense still dictates that no animal be left unattended with an infant or small child. And, of course, before the baby arrives, safety dictates that someone other than the expectant mom clean out that litter box to reduce the risk of birth defects caused by the parasites that may be in the cat's feces.

-- Well-fed cats won't hunt. The ability to hunt is hard-wired into all cats. But the level of desire varies by an individual's genetics and early experiences, not by the rumbling in his belly.

Hunting behavior in cats is very controversial, especially if the prey is songbirds or endangered rodent species. Fitting your cat's collar with a small bell has little effect on his ability to hunt. Turning him into an indoor dweller is the only way to protect wildlife from him. (It'll also make your cat's life less likely to end abruptly from the hazards of the outdoors.)

-- All calico cats are female. Almost all calico (and tortoiseshell) cats are female, but not quite all. About one in every 3,000 calico cats is male, with an extra X chromosome -- XXY instead of the XY of a normal male.

The gene that governs how a cat's red/orange color is displayed is on the X, or female, chromosome. Any cat, male or female, can be orange. In males, however, that color is usually expressed in one way: the tabby pattern, often called a "ginger tom" or marmalade tabby. It takes two X chromosomes to make a calico, which is why a cat must have an extra X chromosome to be a male calico.

Females can be orange tabbies, tortoiseshells or calicos. Because orange females are divided among calicos, torties and tabbies, people sometimes think that almost all orange tabbies are male, just as almost all calicos are female. Not true: For an orange tabby to be female is a lot more common than for a calico to be a male.

-- Black cats are bad luck. Black may be an unlucky color all right -- for a cat, not a person. Black cats have been said to be associated with the forces of evil for hundreds of years. Humane societies warn that this myth has cost some of them their lives as the target of satanic rituals, especially around Halloween.

Black may be an unfortunate color for another reason: visibility. Thousands of cats are killed by cars every year, and the difference between a hit or a near miss may be the driver's ability to see the cat darting across the road before him. At night, patches of light-colored fur are a distinct advantage to a kitty.

SIDEBAR

Hypoallergenic cats don't exist

If people are allergic to animals, their bodies are reacting not to fur but to proteins in skin secretions and saliva, commonly known as dander. These particles are applied generously to a cat's fur by the act of grooming and are liberally applied to every surface she rubs against.

Myths persist about "hypoallergenic" breeds of cats, usually involving the nearly naked Sphynx or lightly coated Devon or Cornish Rex. Their fanciers actively promote many of these breeds as being good for allergy sufferers, but allergists argue otherwise. -- G.S.

Q&A

This tubby tabby resists slimming

Q: I know you've said there's no reason for a fat pet, but I can't get any weight off our 17-pound cat. I don't think it's possible. Also, I'm not sure it would improve our cat's life to cut back on his food because he's such a happy eater. Any advice? -- S.W., via e-mail

A: Would it improve the quality of your cat's life -- or yours -- if he became diabetic? Because that's one risk of chronic obesity in cats. Overweight cats are also prone to joint, ligament and tendon problems, difficulty breathing and even skin problems because they can't groom themselves properly.

Talk to your veterinarian about your cat's overall health and a plan for slowly trimming down your overweight pet. Quick-loss programs can make you cat ill or even kill him, which is why a vet-approved slow-reduction plan is best.

Pay attention to what you're doing to contribute in ways you may not even be fully aware of. For example: Do you share your meals with your cat, handing him the choicest tidbits off your plate? Do you love to give him cat treats several times a day? These things all add up!

Remember: Food is not love. Instead of interacting with your cat over food, bond over grooming or play. Your cat will love you just as much for a loving session of gentle brushing and combing, or a playful half-hour spent being teased with a cat "fishing pole" or other toy. Time spent in either pursuit is better for an overweight cat than eating, and the exercise will help take the weight off.

Running companion

Q: I'm a runner. After a close call with a would-be mugger, my husband and I decided it would be a good idea if I ran with a dog. We'd been thinking about adopting one anyway, so the timing was perfect.

We went to the local shelter and found a litter of puppies. Our Hannah was the cutest, biggest and seemed to be the smartest of the bunch. Our best guess is that she's mostly shepherd, probably mixed with Labrador and Queensland heeler. We've had her a month, she's now more than 4 months old, and she's had all her puppy shots.

She's a great puppy, who's sweet and learns quickly. How can I best get her into proper condition as my running mate? -- D.C., via e-mail

A: You need to wait a while before putting the miles on that pup, or risk permanent damage to her developing body. Eight months of age is about the earliest you should start her running with you, and even then, you should figure on only a mile or two at a relatively slow pace at first.

That doesn't mean you shouldn't be doing anything with your puppy now. Use the next few months to make sure your pet is well-socialized. Introduce her to any situation that's likely to pop up, including being comfortable around people of all ages, bicycles, strollers, cars and noisy motorcycles.

Get your pup into a training class now so she'll learn how to walk -- and later run -- on lead without dislocating your shoulder or pulling you off-stride.

Talk to your veterinarian to get a more accurate assessment of your pet's development and suitability as a running companion. When you get the go-ahead to start training together, take your time building up your pet's mileage and speed.

(Do you have a pet question? Send it to petconnection@gmail.com.)

PET TIP

Time for annual collar, tag check

The New Year's neck check will take you less than a minute, but it could save your pet's life.

I've been suggesting the New Year's neck check for years as an easy-to-remember annual evaluation of the state of your pet's collar and ID. A properly fitted collar is important, but so is the right type. For dogs, a buckled or snap-together collar made of leather or nylon webbing is the best choice. The proper fit for a collar should be comfortably close but not too snug. "Choke" collars should never, ever be the choice for everyday wear -- they can be deadly if they catch on something.

Cat collars should have a piece of elastic to enable your pet to get free if the collar catches on something.

Next, look at the holes and the fasteners. The collar is weakest at these spots, so if you see signs of excessive wear or strain, you'll need to replace the collar soon.

Finally, check those tags. In addition to whatever license is required, your pet should have a legible ID tag. Instead of putting the pet's name on the tag, I prefer to put on the word "Reward!" And instead of a home address, I put as many phone numbers -- home, cell, friends, family -- as will fit.

Don't delay in fixing whatever problems you find. Sturdy collars and legible ID tags are the best insurance possible when it comes to getting your pet a ticket home should he ever become lost.

PET Rx

Thick, shiny coat normal for ferrets

A ferret's coat should be shiny and thick, never dull or dry.

Hair loss, and texture and quality changes are cause for concern. External parasites such as fleas, ticks and mites can cause abnormalities, but they are usually visible to the naked eye. The most common cause for hair loss in a mature, neutered ferret is adrenal disease. The most common cause for hair loss in an intact female ferret during its reproductive active cycle is a hormonal imbalance.

Normal ferret skin is smooth and pink without flakes, scabs or discoloration. In the wild, ferrets would spend a portion of their day in underground dens, where there is a constant temperature of 55 degrees with high humidity. In our homes in the winter, the air can be very dry and warm, which can dehydrate the ferret's skin. A cool home humidifier can help.

Your veterinarian should investigate any lumps, scabs or discoloration of the skin as soon as possible. Skin cancer is a common problem in ferrets and can be successfully cured with early treatment.

(Pet Rx is provided by the Veterinary Information Network (VIN.com), an online service for veterinary professionals. More information can be found at www.veterinarypartner.com.)

THE SCOOP

AKC program recognizes good dogs

It's no secret that as a society we have mixed feelings about dogs.

Our hearts warm to those who serve as search-and-rescue dogs or as helpers to those who are blind or use wheelchairs. We can't get enough stories of therapy dogs who bring a smile to the face of an autistic child or an older person with Alzheimer's. But we also can't pass laws fast enough in an effort to protect ourselves from other dogs, after such events as the horrifying attack in San Francisco earlier this year by a pair of animals who were the stuff of nightmares.

A friendly, well-mannered dog is a pleasure to keep and an asset to the community. In my old neighborhood, a park that was inhabited mostly by drug dealers changed dramatically once dog lovers started taking their pets there to play. Places are always safer when people and well-mannered dogs frequent them.

The American Kennel Club's Canine Good Citizen program is about acknowledging good dogs, for the benefit of all dogs and those who love them. The program isn't about trophies or precise and rigid obedience. Its 10 tests are meant to identify dogs who behave with calm, friendly confidence, whether at the veterinarian's, in a crowd or meeting other dogs. They are dogs who know the basics of on-leash obedience, even if they may need gentle encouragement to practice it.

To put it simply, Canine Good Citizens are good dogs, recognized for their owner's efforts and belief that a well-mannered dog does more to protect the interests of dog lovers everywhere than does an army of lawyers and lobbyists.

For more information on the CGC program and how to get your dog certified, visit the American Kennel Club's Web site (www.akc.org) and search for "Canine Good Citizen."

PETS BY THE NUMBERS

What we like about our dogs

According to a 2004 survey by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, here are the top reasons why dog lovers enjoy having a canine companion (more than one response allowed):

Source of affection 89 percent

Feel safe in home 83 percent

Beneficial to health 78 percent

Helps me relax 77 percent

ON THE WEB

Dog lovers get holistic advice

Month in and month out, the one publication I can't wait to open is the Whole Dog Journal, a newsletter that covers the best in so-called "alternative" health care and nutrition, reward-based training, and great gear for dogs and the people who love them. Their reviews of dog foods are worth the entire subscription and are not influenced by advertising, which they do not accept at all.

The WDJ has a Web site (www.whole-dog-journal.com) that offers subscribers all current content for free and archived articles at a small charge. The site also provides non-subscribers a way to order content article-by-article. Regular mail subscriptions are $20 for 13 months by calling toll-free: 1-800-829-9165. Subscriptions can also be ordered through the Web site.

If your New Year's resolutions include a healthier dog, a subscription to the Whole Dog Journal is a good place to start.

Gina Spadafori is the award-winning author of "Dogs for Dummies," "Cats for Dummies" and "Birds for Dummies." She is also affiliated with the Veterinary Information Network Inc., an international online service for veterinary professionals. Write to her in care of this newspaper, or send e-mail to petconnection@gmail.com. You can also read her frequently updated Web log or view her column archives at www.spadafori.com.

4520 Main St., Kansas City, Mo. 64111; (816) 932-6600

Every year at this time, I like to remind pet lovers that as fun as it is to wrap gifts for our pets, it doesn't hurt to expand the idea of giving.

After all, your pet hasn't been dreaming of this year's hottest gift, and he won't be disappointed if he gets something as modest as a package of yummy pet treats or a single new toy.

I encourage pet lovers to be reasonable when it comes to getting gifts for their own pets -- and to remember those other animals who aren't as lucky. The need for assistance has never been more critical in the nation's animal shelters, where funds are tighter than ever following the massive assistance efforts put together in the wake of this year's devastating hurricanes.

While shelters in the disaster region -- such as the Louisiana SPCA, which lost its New Orleans base entirely -- were hardest hit, the ripple effect of the disaster has been felt across the nation.

This year, I'm suggesting that people donate money to shelters in the disaster area, or to the national groups that saved so many abandoned animals. A good place to start is with a donation to the Louisiana SPCA. Checks can go to the organization at P.O. Box 127, Mandeville, LA 70470. Donations can also be made on the organization's Web site, www.la-spca.org. (Donations of goods are not recommended for organizations in the disaster region.)

Don't forget your local shelter. Not only were many of the nation's shelters involved in taking in animals from the disaster zone, but they're also struggling now because donations to local charities traditionally suffer after an event on the scale of Hurricane Katrina.

For local animal charities, a donation of money is most practical, but it's not the only kind of gift that can help.

Nancy Peterson of the Humane Society of the United States says it's important to ask your local shelter what's needed before giving.

"There's nothing worse for a shelter than to get bags of dog food or cat food they can't use, or toys that can't be disinfected," she said. "Storage space is always in short supply."

While perishable items or those that cannot be reused should not be given, there are a few items most any shelter can use, including old towels and newspapers.

In the coming year, the gift of your time may be appreciated most of all, according to Peterson.

"You don't have to volunteer in the shelter," she says, acknowledging that some people find it difficult to deal with the sad reality of homeless pets. "There are always events that can use volunteers."

One way to help is by getting others to donate. Find out what your local shelter needs in the way of goods and services, and then get on the phone to help get it donated by individuals and businesses in your community.

It all starts with making a decision to skip something your pet doesn't need and then putting the money to help those pets who need just about everything. To me, it's the best way to celebrate the season, by giving to those who really need it.

SIDEBAR

Heartworm hits Katrina dogs hard

Considering the South is a perfect environment for bugs, it's not surprising that many of the animals rescued following Hurricane Katrina were infested with fleas and ticks. A little more surprising: Rescue groups estimate that 80 percent of the dogs they saved tested positive for heartworm disease, a potentially deadly parasitic infestation that can be prevented with a monthly pill.

Treatment for an established heartworm infestation is hard on the animal and the pocketbook, which is why a coalition of humane and veterinary groups have stepped up with a special effort to help, by putting $150,000 into a fund for heartworm treatment of the rescued animals. Grants of up to $500 are being given to treat the disease.

More donations are needed and can be given in care of American Animal Hospital Association (www.aahahelpingpets.org, 866-443-5738). Grant guidelines are available at the same source.

Q&A

Should cold stop dog's daily walk?

Q: When is it too cold to walk my 2-year-old Labrador-boxer mix? The other morning I took her for a 30-minute walk when the temperature was in the low 20s, with a mid-teens wind chill and a dusting of snow on the ground. She was her usual curious, bouncy self the whole way. But when we got in the car to go home, I noticed that her feet were really cold. Should I have canceled or shortened the walk? -- J.F., via e-mail

A: Generally speaking, if you can take a walk, so can your dog, especially if the dog is as young and healthy as yours is.

If your dog is used to spending most of her time in the warm house (and I sure hope so, because dogs need to be part of the family), you might consider making things more comfortable on long winter outings by outfitting her with boots and a sweater or coat. Dog garments may seem silly, but in addition to keeping your dog warmer, they also make cleaning up after the walk easier, because you won't be dealing with melting snowballs between your dog's pads or the drip of melting ice from the coat. Boots also help to protect feet from chemicals used to melt ice on pavement.

When I was at the great British dog show Crufts, the largest canine event in the world, I was astonished by the range of high-quality weather protection designed both for dogs and the people who walk them.

One of the people at a booth selling well-designed, good-looking raincoats for dogs explained that when you live in a place as damp as England, anything that minimizes wet-dog smell is a good value. Viewed from that perspective, bad-weather gear for dogs is as much a convenience for people as a comfort for the animals.

Poinsettia myths

Q: After years of reading that poinsettias are poisonous, I've heard in the last couple of years that they're not. Looking on the Web, there's contradictory information. I like holiday greenery, but I'm not going to risk my pets' lives. What's the truth? -- S.T., via e-mail

A: Just last week I got a media release from a humane society, one of dozens of such releases I get this time of year from every conceivable organization or business hoping to get a little publicity. And there it was: "Be careful to keep poisonous plants such as poinsettias away from your pets."

Wrong. Poinsettias are not poisonous, according to folks who know more about pets and poisons than anyone else, the Animal Poison Control Center (www.aspca.org/apcc). Apparently the idea that poinsettias are deadly traces back to a story from early in the last century, when a young child was said to have been killed by eating a poinsettia leaf.

In fact, poinsettias can cause a mild tummy ache at most. While it's not recommended that you add poinsettia leaves to your pet's holiday meal, they're certainly not such a concern that you need to ban the plant from your home.

Mistletoe might be, however. According to the APCC, the common holiday decoration can, if ingested in sufficient quantities, cause a severe reaction that may include difficulty breathing, seizures, coma and even death. Other holiday eating hazards include yeast dough, alcohol, chocolate and avocados.

The Internet can be a good source of information -- or an even better source of misinformation. Whenever I get one of those breathless forwarded e-mails warning of a deadly substance or product, I check it out with the Animal Poison Control Center and with Snopes.com to make sure it's not another urban myth -- as the ongoing warnings about Febreze and Swiffer home-cleaning products have been shown to be by these reliable sources.

(Do you have a pet question? Send it to petconnection@gmail.com.)

PET TIP

Making collar a better fit

Dog trainer and author Liz Palika (www.lizpalika.com) has spent enough time training dogs to know that no one tool or training method is right for every dog. For some dogs, her tool of choice is the pinch collar, a piece of equipment that seems to owe its less-than-ideal reputation to its fearsome appearance.

The collar has a double row of blunt points that pinch when the leash is pulled, providing a prompt correction that can get the attention of dogs with well-muscled necks, such as pit bulls, boxers and Rottweilers.

Since it's the "pinch," not the "points," that's important, Palika modifies the collars for sale at her San Diego-area training facility, Kindred Spirits: They're outfitted with fuzzy kids' socks. The toes are cut off the socks, and the collars go inside.

The socks soften the resistance of dog lovers to using the collars and soften the effect of the collars on the dogs. It's a nifty innovation. -- G.S.

PET Rx

Vet should choose pet's antibiotics

Antibiotics have saved countless lives of both the human and animal variety. But we have become so comfortable with these medicines and their frequent use, we sometimes forget they are powerful drugs that should be used with care.

Case in point: Some pet owners respond to any sign of illness by dosing -- and often, overdosing -- their pets with antibiotics commonly available at pet-supply stores (and often labeled for fish). "Prescribing" antibiotics on your own for your pet is a bad idea, for a couple of reasons.

First, if your pet has a viral or fungal infection, antibiotics will not help -- and they may even worsen your pet's condition.

Second, all antibiotics are not the same -- they each have their target bacteria, and may little affect bacteria that they're not designed to combat as well as bacteria that are resistant to their effects.

Finally, regular use of antibiotics may affect both your pet's immune system and the bacteria trying to beat it, leading to the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria that will be hard to stamp out, even with the "right" medication.

When you buy an antibiotic at a pet-supply store, you are often wasting your money, and you're certainly losing time -- time that should be spent taking your pet to your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.

(Pet Rx is provided by the Veterinary Information Network (VIN.com), an online service for veterinary professionals. More information can be found at www.veterinarypartner.com.)

PET BASICS

Many choices when it comes to litter boxes

While a simple plastic litter box may well satisfy your cat, there are more choices to consider than ever before. Among them:

-- Covered pans. Covered pans keep odors down and may prevent dogs from getting into the filler. Simple covered boxes are available in any pet-supply outlet. For something special, look in the back of cat magazines or visit a cat show to purchase cabinets designed to house litter boxes and cat care accessories.

Remember, though, that cats with asthma should not use a covered litter pan -- they need the increased ventilation an open-air variety offers. And if you choose a covered pan, don't forget that you must be as on top of its cleaning as you would with any other variety. Just because you can't smell it doesn't mean it isn't stinking.

-- Self-cleaning pans. No one likes to clean the litter box, but some cats are so fussy that, if you let this important chore wait, your cat may turn her nose up and go elsewhere. At the high end of litter box choices are appliances that make cleaning a nearly "hands-off" affair, thanks to the easy-clean properties of clumping cat-box filler. Although more expensive than ordinary hoodless pans, a self-cleaning litter box may be a good option if you're not inclined to stay on top of cleaning.

-- Creative box choices. Litter-box possibilities are not limited to pet-supply outlets. Feline behaviorist Kate Gamble suggests using plastic blanket-storage boxes because they have lots of room and high sides for keeping litter in. (She cuts down one side for an easier entrance.) You can also try plastic dish pans, retired cake pans (the low sides are good for kittens) or even mortar-mixing pans.

With a litter box your cat likes and a commitment from you to keep it fastidiously clean, you'll have a good chance at keeping your cat thinking inside the box.

PETS BY THE NUMBERS

Pets and cancer

The Veterinary Pet Insurance Co./DVM Insurance Agency (www.petinsurance.com) recently released an analysis of claims submitted for cancer. With more than 17,000 cancer-related claimed filed by VPI policy-holders, the No. 1 cancer for cats and dogs in 2004 turned out to be lymphosarcoma.

Top cancer claims for dogs:

Lymphosarcoma 22 percent

Skin tumors 14 percent

Bone cancer 6 percent

Top cancer claims for cats:

Lymphosarcoma 36 percent

Skin tumors 8 percent

Thorax cancer 6 percent

ON THE WEB

Toys keep birds healthy, happy

Pet birds do not live by food alone -- they need to be kept occupied. The Birdbrain (www.thebirdbrain.com) is one of the most expert sources for toys and other things to keep your bird busy. Proceeds from their sales go to one of the best bird charities around, the well-respected Colorado-based Gabriel Foundation (www.thegabrielfoundation.org).

The Birdbrain offers all kinds of parrot-related items, from perches to food containers to cleaning supplies, but the toy selection is truly outstanding. The shop breaks them down into categories such as "noisemakers," "foot toys" and "destructible," and will even suggest toys for birds with disabilities. I visited the Gabriel Foundation and The Birdbrain near Snowmass, Colo., a few years back and took home a rather large collection of toys for my parrot. The store's now in Denver, and it is a must-visit for any parrot lover. There's lots of good information on the site, too!

Gina Spadafori is the award-winning author of "Dogs for Dummies," "Cats for Dummies" and "Birds for Dummies." She is also affiliated with the Veterinary Information Network Inc., an international online service for veterinary professionals. Write to her in care of this newspaper, or send e-mail to petconnection@gmail.com. You can also read her frequently updated Web log or view her column archives at www.spadafori.com.

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