Rant: Dogs loose in the back of a truck

Nothing makes me more angry (OK maybe a few things make me more angry but this isn't the time or place), than seeing someone hauling a dog in the back of a truck. How irresponsible. Not to be judgemental or anything, but why would anyone in their right mind do that to a dog. Yeah, sure the dog may "enjoy" the wind blowing in their face, They may like running back and forth from side to side to see what is going on. But what happens when the unexpected happens?

• Your pup sees something they want to chase and jumps out of the truck into traffic.


• You take a sharp turn and your pooch falls out of the truck bed.


• You have to slam on your breaks suddenly, man's best friend goes flying into the truck cab.

Now you get the picture.

So, what are the responsible things to do. Let's think about it.

1. You could bring your pooch into the cab. And use a travel harness like:

Therapet Secure Traveler Harness Our Therapet® Secure Traveler Harness may one day save your pet's life. Allows your dog the comfort to either sit, stand or lie down, while keeping your dog safely contained. Strong nylon webbing, 2 quick-snap plastic buckles and fleece padded chest strap that provides comfort and security. Includes seat belt attachment and heavy-duty hardware. Available sizes : X-Small fits 7" - 16" girth Small/Med fits 12" - 28" girth Large fits 28" - 36" girth X-Large fits 32" - 44" girth

2. You could put an appropriate sized cage/crate securely in the truck bed like this:

AKC Travel Kennel 40In L x 40In W x 32In H Designed for Dog Owner’s on the go who want to keep their dog safeEnginee to fit into the back of pick-up trucks and S.U.V.’sCommercial grade anodized gold steel frame - featuring a quick connect systemRaised wood comfort flooring system keeps dogs off of hot or dirty surfacesFabric roof system protects dog from harmful and hot sun raysKennel can be easily set in and out of vehicle by side mounted carry handles

3. Maybe you can think of other responsible ways to take your pup with you in your truck.

The most important thing is that you, your pup, and those driving around you are always safe and NOT in danger.

Event: Huntsville, Al - Barking for Bucks June 29, 2008

Huntsville, Alabama Dog Lovers! On June 29th come to Barkin' 4 Buck$ at the Dog Spot (downtown Huntsville Dog Park). The event is to raise money for a second Dog Park in Huntsville. Hope that you will come support this great cause and bring your 4 legged friends with you so they can enter the King and Queen of the Dog Spot competition. Please see this flyer for other great information!

Nonprofit News: Celebrate pets and confront cruelty

The Humane Society has another neat campaign going on. Make a donation of $10 for every pet in your home and then you can upload a photo of your pet(s) to their "Pets Supporting The HSUS" virtual photo album. our pet becomes famous and you support the HSUS fight against puppy mills. Consider donating now!

Nonprofit News: Social Networking meets Social Good!

I love Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instant Messaging. I also love helping good, deserving causes. Many non-profits are joining the social networking world. The Humane Society of the United States has just teamed up with Microsoft to be a part of i'm™. i'm™ is a new initiative from Windows Live Messenger and now, Windows Live Hotmail.

In a nutshell, each time you send a message using Windows Live Messenger or Windows Live Hotmail, Microsoft shares a portion of the program's advertising revenue with some of the world's most effective organizations dedicated to social causes, including The Humane Society of the United States. All you have to do is sign up!

Learn more by going to the Humane Society's site.

Use the tools you normally do and help a good cause.

Today Show: Doggie Wedding Wear

Ok, now I really do think that I've seen everything.

This morning on the Today Show they featured doggie wedding wear in a great, not to miss fashion show. Turns out that folks are having their dogs in their wedding. And of course, their attire must match the bride, groom and wedding patty. If you have a minute, check out the article and the video.

I did think it was great that they pointed out safety factors to consider when including your dog in your special day. Things such as, some flowers are poisonous to dogs, the pooch needs to be potty trained and enjoy being with people.

I suggest that you might want to designate one person as caretaker for your pooch so you have time to focus on your special day and your guests.

Nonprofit News: Dog Lovers Wine Club

I love wine and I love helping The Humane Society of the United States. Now there is an opportunity for a win-win -- wine to help eliminate whimpering. The Human Society of the United States just announced their "Dog Lovers Wine Club." The club comes from the Carivintâs Winery. Enjoy a good bottle of wine, with a label designed by an artist, and suggested food parings all to the benefit of The Human Society of the United States.

Buy a bottle for your favorite "dog daddy" for father's day.

Gift Idea: Broadway Barks by Bernadette Peters

I had the chance to hear Bernadette Peters talk about her new book and the inspiration behind it. Broadway Barks sounds like a great gift. She also sang a lullaby from the CD included with the book. It is the first song she has written and it is truly wonderful. Sales of the book benefit Broadway Barks, an annual star-studded animal adoption event benefiting animal shelters throughout the New York City area. Broadway Barks was co-founded by Bernadette Peters and Mary Tyler Moore. Peter's passion for animals and her work on behalf of the organization are the inspiration behind this book.

Buying the book is a win-win. Get it now on Amazon!!