Pop Art Pet Unleashed

One year ago, as we witnessed the devastation to New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina, and to the pets left behind in the days and weeks that followed, we were mortified. We have periodically provided updates of ongoing rescue efforts and legal issues. So how are things one year later?..

Now that a year has passed, many of the animals rescued after 80 percent of New Orleans was flooded, have found their way back to their owners or to new homes across the country. Unfortunately however, the city’s only animal shelter - which operates out of an old coffee warehouse without air conditioning or drainage - is still full of hundreds of pets awaiting adoption.

Some are strays found wandering through the rubble of abandoned homes. Others were actually given up by owners after the storm, because they were unable to care for them because of the stress of living in tiny trailers while they rebuild their homes, among other reasons.

Thousands of animals died in the floods or in the aftermath when evacuees were barred from taking their pets or returning to find them. Then animal rescue workers found their efforts delayed when they were barred from entering the city until a week after the storm hit. They paddled through floodwaters and broke into houses to rescue the pets of people who thought they would only be gone two or three days. Animals barred from evacuation buses were picked up on the streets as they rooted through garbage in search of food.

About 16,000 pets were rescued and shipped to shelters across the country. Only 15 to 20 percent were eventually reunited with their owners. A lack of proper identification and technology to handle such a huge project slowed the reunion process, as did the time it took evacuees to find suitable housing. As you know if you have read our previous posts, at least a couple dozen families have since sued aid agencies because the new owners of their pets would not return them, creating an emotional and legal dilemma for everyone involved.

Perhaps the only positive thing to come out of Katrina, seven states and the federal government have since passed laws ensuring that evacuation plans include pets, and some of those laws have even provided funds for pet-friendly shelters.

Animal shelters across the country have contacted the Louisiana SPCA to get a copy of its evacuation plan, which managed to safely evacuate 263 animals ahead of the storm. That foresight saved their lives: when the shelter’s staff was finally allowed to return they found the shelter swamped with eight feet of water. The SPCA is currently raising funds for a new 17 million dollar facility in New Orleans, slated to open in January.

Kylie has been immortalized yet again, by another unique & creative artist! Leslie Coleman is a very talented artist in Santa Fe, she creates stained glass designs and happens to be a fan friend of Kylie’s from her blog.    So out of the kindness of her heart and using our Comic Art of Kylie as her inspiration she designed this…

  How cool is that?! 

Pretty good likeness, huh? 

We really love it and are thrilled to add it to our Kylie Collection of original art! Thank you so much Leslie!

  You can also see more of Leslie’s amazing artwork on the web, check it out.

Right here in Denver, at a wonderful little no-kill shelter called MaxFund a very special 7-week old kitten is making a name for herself. Lovely little Lola was born with back legs that are too long for her little body and can’t easily walk normally.   So she figured that the easiest way to get around was to put her head to the ground, her back feet into the air and walk on her front paws. We saw her on the local news last night and again this morning and we were amazed!

In addition to the deformity in her back legs, shelter workers believe Lola may have partial paralysis. But she’s not in pain, she loves to play, and like all determined creatures she’s found away to get around in the best way she can. Go Lola Go!

In other unusual animal activity..

Attention Doberman owners: are you tired of people looking at your “dangerous killer” dog in fear? Well, why not disguise your doberman as a poodle with this costume?

The company that makes the costume, attackchi.com.au,  has some other clever cover-ups in the works as well.

Soon you’ll be able to disguise your German Shepherd as a Golden Retriever and your Mastiff as an Old English Sheepdog!

If you like shopping, and you love your pet, well then you’re our kind of people! And if you’re like us on about every other credit card statement there is a charge for the vet’s office (it’s not that Kylie’s unhealthy, we’re just paranoid). Well we just found out about the ideal credit card for pet people like us and wanted to pass along the info…

The Pet Rewards Visa is offered by Bank of America, and it lets you earn points toward vet bills, pet food, and even animal rescue donations!

The card also has no annual fee, 0% introductory APR, blah, blah, blah, all those important financial features that you want in a credit card. But more importantly, you get 500 bonus points for your first purchase, 1 point for every dollar, and you can start collecting rewards at 750 points. Oh, and the best part - you can put your own pet’s picture on your card!

I promise, we are in no way affiliated with and get no kick backs from visa or Bank of America. It’s just nice to see corporate america coming around, and rewarding us for valuing our pets, and for supporting animal charities!

Plus it makes shopping more fun!

Did you know that “National Homeless Animals Day” is this Saturday, August 19, 2006?

The International Society for Animal Rights (ISAR) began “National Homeless Animals Day” to publicize the magnitude of the problem of dog and cat overpopulation, which condemns millions of animals to death every year in our country’s animal shelters. From modest beginnings in 1992, National Homeless Animals Day has grown enormously. Animal Rights/Welfare organizations, and individuals from around the world have taken part in the event to promote adoption and spay/neuter programs.

National Homeless Animals’ Day is always observed as the 3rd Saturday in August, this year being August 19, 2006. Organizations around the globe participate by finding new ways each year to mark the day: from open house at their shelter, mobile adoptions, spay/neuter or vaccination clinics, pet walks and days at the park, to full fledged candlelight vigils. It is up to each participating group to decide what would work best in their community and most effectively call attention to the issues. Often, as part of National Homeless Animals Day, governors and mayors across the country sign proclamations written by ISAR. These declarations urge people to act responsibly by having their companion animals spayed or neutered to help curb pet overpopulation, ultimately putting an end to the killing of healthy but homeless animals.

ISAR’s goal this year is for all 50 states to be represented and for their international presence to grow as well. Individuals or organizations wishing to take part in National Homeless Animals Day can contact ISAR for a free vigil packet which contains materials on how activists can organize their own vigils, as well as helpful hints for holding a successful vigil.

We encourage you to check the events calendar in your community to find out if and how National Homeless Animals Day will be recognized in your area; or be proactive!
To request a packet, write or call:

International Society for Animal Rights
965 Griffin Pond Road
Clarks Summit, PA 18411
800.543.ISAR (4727)

America’s 65 million dogs have more ways to play than ever. The growing number of Dog Parks in the U.S. dedicated to off-leash play are estimated at more than 700, the best ones include water fountains and even swimming pools! According to experts, dogs that are highly socialized and exercised are healthier and happier. Studies have shown that dogs that exercise and are regularly allowed to run freely are not as aggressive towards people as dogs that are under-exercised. Allowing dogs to have an off-leash area socializes dogs by bringing them in contact with other dogs causing them to be less aggressive in each future encounter with dogs. In general, time spent at the dog park improves the mental and physical state of dogs.

Dog parks are good for people too. They not only allow you to have the pleasure of watching your dog(s) at play, but you too can actually derive the same socialization benefits as your dog. Scientific studies have shown that people somehow find it easier to talk to each other with dogs as the initial focus. You could probably also find “scientific studies” that show that fresh air and exercise is good for people too! So before your furry kids head back to school and the chill of winter blows in, spend some quality time with your dog and other dog lovers at a dog park near you!Here are some basic do’s & don’ts for a trip to the dog park:

Obey posted park rules

Always keep your eye on your dog- mischief can happen quickly

Never bring more dogs than you can watch- 3 is about the limit

Never leave your dog unattended

Always clean up after your dog! Poop bags are typically supplied, but it is still always advisable to byob (bags).

Remove any halters, metal choke chains or link collars. In the rough and tumble play a tooth or nail could get caught in this type of collar, resulting in a scared dog, lost tooth or broken nail and possibly a panic fight.

Make sure that your dog is current on all shots, including Bordetella for kennel cough.

Don’t bring dogs younger than 4 months to an off-leash park. They won’t have all of the necessary inoculations to allow them to play safely with other animals.

Do not bring a female dog in heat!

It is preferable for multiple reasons that your dog is spayed/neutered.

If your dog becomes unruly or plays rough, leash him and leave the park.

If you bring children, supervise them closely.

Help educate other, less experienced park users.
This year’s Top Ten U.S. dog parks, based on criteria ranging from safety considerations to owner educational resources, including urban and suburban settings coast to coast are:

1. Fort Woof Dog Park — Fort Worth, Texas
2. Paw Park of Historic Sanford — Sanford, Fla. (Orlando area)
3. Fort De Soto Paw Playground — Fort De Soto, Fla. (St. Petersburg area)
4. City of Rome Bark Park — Rome, N.Y.
5. Carl’s Dog Run — New York, N.Y.
6. Ohlone Dog Park — Berkeley, Calif. (San Francisco area)
7. Kenton Paw Park — Covington, Ky. (Cincinnati area)
8. Fleet Peeples Park — Winter Park, Fla. (Orlando area)
9. El Paso County Dog Park — Colorado Springs, Colo.
10. Stanley’s Spot — Morgantown, W.V.

We found some interesting dating advice for the single girl, and thought we should pass it along. It explains how you can judge your date by his dog, such as the “Dober-man” as compared to the “Lab-man.” It was written by Wendy Diamond, founder and editorial director of Animal Fair (fairness to animals) magazine. She has even written a book called “What a Lucky Dog! How to Understand Men Through Their Dogs.”

It’s quite an interesting concept, let us know what you think:

There are more than 68 million dogs in the United States. I can guarantee you that at the end of more than half of those dogs’ leashes you will find men.

A dog is a man’s loyal best friend. And, since men naturally identify with dogs, it’s possible to identify common links and shared personality traits between men and their dogs. In fact, I foresee a new wave in pop culture emerging. A man won’t be vaguely called a “dog” any more — he’ll be humorously defined and nicknamed by the breed or mutt he owns! He’ll be a “Dober-man,” a “Lab-man,” “Mr. Beagle,” “Mutt man” and so on.

For example, consider a Chihuahua man. He can be very demanding when he doesn’t get his own way. He loves to be the center of attention, too. Zealous and impassioned actor Mickey Rourke is a Chihuahua man. The Irish Setter-man is very sociable and good-natured; perhaps that’s why he can be often found at the pub with his buddies. On your first date, suggest an Irish pub that serves authentic dishes such as shepherd’s pie, fish and chips and beef stew. If you get serious with Mr. Irish Setter man, you can expect him to be loyal, affectionate and a family man.

Will Smith, a Rottweiler man

Mr. Rottweiler can’t help but become overly protective when he senses his loved ones are in danger. Will Smith, a Rottweiler man, is known in Hollywood as very protective of his wife, Jada, and their children. A Mutt man changes his moods at the drop of a hat, as he possesses the numerous personality traits of his various ancestors! Famous, multi-talented Mutt men actors include sexy Brad Pitt, soulful Kevin Spacey, mysterious David Duchovny and animated Alan Cumming.

Equally important to predicting a man’s personality traits based on the breed of dog he owns are some applicable training techniques. In general, housebreaking can be a problem for both men and dogs, as they must mark their territory. Dogs leave scent marks; men leave wet towels, worn socks or clothes on the back of a chair or the end of a bed. Let’s face it, both love their treats and it’s important to know when to reward and when to hold back, otherwise you’ll have one spoiled pup on your hands!

For some specific behaviors, consider Mr. West Highland Terrier for example. He is affectionate albeit demanding. He has an insatiable appetite for being in the know and in the middle of what’s happening. He’s highly sociable and doesn’t like to make waves. Diplomacy is his middle name and, although he is very loyal, don’t expect him to fight your battles for you. Given all of his outdoor activities and social calendar, you’ll have to teach him that your private time can be as exciting and fulfilling as the next grand opening. Fads fade but true love lasts.

Channel his high energy

Mr. Golden Retriever is not above going through your closets and personal belongings when you’re not aware. He’ll feel entitled to claim your possessions as mutual territory. You can help him channel his high energy by giving him projects around the house or yard, such as; building shelves, painting the apartment and landscaping the garden.
Finally, if you have a faithful dog in your household, count on it to help sniff out whether your budding relationship might just be puppy love or the real deal.

When you first start dating, your dog will give you a sure indicator about how it feels about your new love interest. At first meeting, your dog’s tail will wag with approval if it connects positively. If your canine love consultant barks and growls every time sweetie enters the room - beware of cupid! His arrow might have missed the mark! Some breeds are more protective and take longer to warm up to new people entering their clan.

Happily forever after?

Canines, like men and women, can become jealous when they feel they might have to share treats and attention. It’s important to incorporate the person you’re dating in your dog’s regular activities to prevent competition and promote compatibility. Your dog will welcome your love interest at the front door with excitement when it has accepted your love match! But, after several months of dating if your dog doesn’t warm up, you might want to check out the personality traits of your breed with your potential mate to find out if happily forever after is in your future.

There is an endless variety and ample opportunities for discussing both men and dogs with girlfriends over Sunday brunch, with co-workers during lunch, your mother and sisters over dinner. Dog stories, too, can lead to many conversations with your special man while you’re walking his dog to the local dog run. Have fun!

Around here we’re having a lot more thunderstorms this season than usual, and we happen to have a little dog who trembles uncontrollably every time. It’s horrible to feel helpless to help her. So I did some searching for some recommendations or remedies and thought, since this is a fairly common problem, I would share the info with our visitors..

Storm phobias are one of the most common problems dog owners face, but their cause is not entirely clear. Behaviorists are not yet sure what part of the storm frightens dogs most, whether they’re reacting to lightning flashes, the sound of thunder, wind blowing around the house, or the sound of rain on the roof. Some dogs even start to pace and whine half an hour or more before a storm. They may be reacting to a sudden drop in air pressure or the electrical charge of the air.

The Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association describes an Internet survey of people living with storm-phobic dogs. The survey showed that some breeds may be predisposed to a fear of storms. Herding dogs, such as collies and German shepherds, and hounds, such as beagles and basset hounds, seem to be more likely to develop a storm phobia than other dogs. The phobia is also common in sporting and working breeds. The study suggests that this tendency may be explained in terms of the dogs’ genetics. For example, herding dogs have been bred to react quickly to stimuli, such as a calf wandering away from the herd, but not to be aggressive. It could be that herding dogs have a strong reaction to the startling noises and flashes of a storm, but they repress any aggressive response to it, causing anxiety. According to the research rescued dogs may also be more likely to develop storm phobias. The theory is that these dogs are more likely to have had unpleasant, scary experiences prior to being adopted. They may have been abused or abandoned by a former owner, or they may not have been well socialized or exposed to a wide variety of sights and sounds. These kinds of early-life experiences can make dogs more anxious and prone to all kinds of phobias.

What can you do to help reduce your dog’s anxiety during the storm? Your best bet is to talk to your veterinarian. He or she can help you develop a program to gradually retrain your dog by gently helping him adjust to storms through behavior modification. Technically called “systematic desensitization,” this involves exposing the storm-phobic dog to some gentle reminders of a thunderstorm, such as a very soft tape recording of thunder or a flashing light, and rewarding the dog with lots of treats, attention, and other positive reinforcement only if there’s no evidence of anxiety. Over time, the intensity of the stimulus is increased, and only calm behavior rewarded. You should get professional guidance before you begin this process. If you introduce frightening stimuli too quickly or don’t see signs of fear your dog may be showing, you could possibly end up making the phobia worse.

If gentle, patient retraining doesn’t help your paranoid pooch, there are some holistic remedies and prescriptions that can. Your veterinarian can prescribe one of several anti-anxiety or antidepressant medications to help your dog remain calm during storms. You can also make sure your dog has a warm, safe “den” to retreat to when the weather gets too scary. You can try padding a crate with blankets or clearing a space underneath your bed. Just make sure that it’s somewhere your pup can get out of whenever he wants. A panicked dog can do a lot of damage to his crate and himself if he’s confined.

Most important, though, is that you treat your dog gently and kindly when he is afraid. Don’t cuddle and reassure him, because that will reward his scaredy-dog behavior, but definitely don’t punish him for it either. Instead, just be calm and provide him with a safe, familiar place where he can feel secure and ride out the storm.

Barney the six-year old Doberman, working as a guard dog at a teddy bear exhibition in England, went on a rampage and ripped the stuffing out of Elvis Presley’s beloved bear, Mabel. 

The exhibit at Wookey Hole Caves, a popular holiday destination in Somerset, in southern England, included (past tense) 1,000 precious and pricey teddy bears, including Mabel (pictured right, before), the beloved bear of the King of Rock and Roll, singer of “I just wanna be your teddy bear”. The collection, valued at more than $900,000, also included (past tense) a red bear made by Farnell in 1910 and a Bobby Bruin made by Merrythought in 1936, both also fell victim to violence in the workplace. The bear with Elvis connections was owned by English aristocrat Benjamin Slade, who bought it at an Elvis memorabilia auction in Memphis for $98,000, and is reportedly, “not very pleased at all.” He was also described as being, “hopping mad.” Don’t you love how polite the British are?

The collection was so valuable that the insurance company insisted the exhibitors guard it with dogs. Barney, a sleek and handsome Doberman, was dutifully dispatched. But, according to museum management it all went horribly wrong, when Barney inexplicably “went on a rampage” beginning with Mabel. Barney (who is apparently a Beatles fan) took a very large chunk out of Mabel almost severing her head, and then went mad. Dozens of other bears were shredded in the 20 minutes it took to get Barney under control.

Barney has subsequently accepted early retirement. Fortunately that is not a euphemism! Management obviously wanted him to be relieved of duty but insisted that they did not want anything “nasty” to happen to Barney. He will likely be going to a farm where he can “chase chickens.” For the chickens’ sake, I hope they’re more partial to Jerry Lee Lewis!

Barney & his boss surveying the aftermath

Did you notice? Popartpet.com has had a little work done. We’re not ashamed to admit it.. it was time for a face lift! Not to worry it was purely cosmetic, all the good stuff and great artwork is still there - we’ve just tried to make it a little easier to find.

Please bear with us over the next week or so, the bandages just came off so you may see a little bruising in the form of an unfortunate error. But it’s sure to recover quickly and we’ll look better than new!

We’d love your feedback so please let us know what you think of our new look.

By the way, did you know that you can actually have cosmetic surgery performed on your dog or cat?

In Brazil, the United States and Europe, pet plastic surgery is increasingly in demand, despite objections from animal rights activists. Pet plastic surgeons can make protruding ears droop and use Botox to fix inverted eyelashes. They can even lift the “breasts” of female dogs for owners who want to show them after they have given birth.

The American Kennel Club, which sets the rules for the recognized breeds on the U.S. dog-show circuit, prohibits any surgery that alters a dog’s appearance, other than the cropping of ears and tails to meet breed standards. But the prohibition on surgery is difficult to define and enforce. A few years ago, an award-winning Pekingese in Britain was the subject of an inquiry when rumors swirled that its face had been surgically enhanced.

In Brazil, where thousands of cosmetic procedures have been performed on pets, pet plastic surgeons attend human surgeries to develop treatments for their pet patients. One commented that the animal’s health is their top concern, but beauty also is important to the animal’s well-being, and that if the owner thinks the dog is attractive, the relationship is better.

As usual we would like to add our two cents and say, since your pet loves you unconditionally, shouldn’t you return the favor?!!

On the opposite side of the coin, here are some faces only a mother or father could love from the “Ugliest Dogs” website.

Just remember folks, ugly as well as beauty, is in the eye of the beholder. And I bet any of these wonderfully unique pups would look fabulous in one of our portraits!