Jenna's Dogs Blog

Things may be looking up for dogs in need! You may already know that Leona Helmsley left $12 million to her Maltese, when she passed away last August. But you may not know that she bequeathed nearly all of her remaining estate (an estimated $5 billion to $8 billion) to the care and welfare of dogs, as explained in a recent New York Times article. This is good news, if the money really goes to the dogs.

Now it is up to the trustees of the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, also the executors of her will, to properly allocate the money. Considerations include animal welfare groups, shelters, and veterinary schools. Beacause Mrs. Helmsley's will did not designate specific charities, the trustees must make some decisions. The question is: Will it all really go to dog-related charities? Where do you think this money should go?

If you're reading this, you're probably not the type of person who would abandon your dog. Unfortunately, there are many people out there who might. Every day, I read several news stories about pets who have been left for dead. Some do not survive, others become critically ill. The fact is, pets are being left behind after their owners lose everything -- and it's happening in record numbers. Not all of these owners are terrible people, some may just be overwhelmed and misinformed. Losing a home, a job, or both can make it nearly impossible to take care of pets. However, there are solutions that will not victimize innocent pets.

As animal lovers we can help spread the word about the alternatives to dumping a pet. If you know someone who has fallen on hard times, or if you think someone you know might abandon a pet, please step in and try to help.

Tell us: How has the current economy and housing crisis affected you, your pets, and your community? Share your story here.

Photo Mario Tama / Getty Images

With Independence Day coming up, many of us have that patriotic feeling. So, why not show it through our dogs? I've talked about collars and how they can reflect our dogs' personalities. Well, maybe your dog is patriotic, or your patriotic side comes out in your dog. Try out a new collar to show that spirit!

PatriaPet has unique collars and leashes that display the patriotic spirit of dogs and owners from many nations -- not just the USA. Check out the selection of collars displaying flags from the USA, the UK, Canada, Jamaica, Russia, and so on. You could get one for your heritage, and one that represents your dog's heritage. If your country is not available, no worries -- it looks like they will be adding new countries. Personally, I'll be looking out for Poland!

Photo courtesy of Patriapet.com

The guides at About.com have come together to promote safety for you and your loved ones this summer. Your Veterinary Medicine Guide has some holiday fireworks tips to help keep your pets safe!

As many pet owners know, fireworks and thunder storms can cause a great deal of stress for some animals. Learn how to avoid stress for your pets, and tips to keep them from running when the sparks start flying.

Photo Chung Sung-Jun / Getty Images

The Dogs site is just one of hundreds of GuideSites on About.com. We all wish you and your pets a fun and safe Fourth of July. Check out these safety tips from the About.com Birds Guide!

On Independence Day, we celebrate with picnics, games, decorations, and of course, fireworks. While these traditions mean tons of fun for us, bird owners must take certain safety precautions to make sure that their pets' 4th of July goes smoothly. Use these tips to keep your pet bird safe and out of harms way once your Independence Day festivities begin.

Photo Sean Gallup / Getty Images

There was a time when many dogs were fed food that was to be thrown away or whatever else could be scrounged up. That was around the same time when most dogs lived outdoors only and were not really considered part of the family. Over time, dogs became more important to humans and commercial dog food was developed. This was a convenient way to improve the average dog's diet. However, the dog foods of yesterday did not meet the ideal nutritional needs of our dogs.

In the last 30-40 years, dog food has really been evolving. Today, we have so many choices. Many people choose to feed homemade diets in an effort to replicate the diet nature intended, but this can be time-consuming. Many dog lovers want to feed a convenient commercial food that still offers some of the benefits of a fresh, homemade diet without harmful chemicals and unnecessary fillers. Several natural and holistic dog food companies stand out in their pledge to use top-quality, all-natural ingredients. Is your dog's food on the list? What are you feeding your canine companion?

Photo Scott Barbour / Getty Images

Cloning has been a touchy subject for years. For some, it represents scientific progress. For others, it brings forth visions of a future that resembles Brave New World. Now, everyone seems to be buzzing about the recent cloning in South Korea of Marine, the cancer-sniffing Black Lab. About three weeks ago, Marine's clones were born to a surrogate mother. Their destiny: enter training to carry on the cancer-sniffing legacy.

Some may see this as a noble cause. Finding cancer early and by non-invasive means is a wonderful thing. Others are skeptical. What about you? Would you consider cloning your dog? How do you feel about cloning dogs? Take the poll!

If you've already seen Sex and the City, then you might want to learn more about the "canine actress" who played Samantha's precious pooch, Baby. If not, now is as good a time as any to check out this film and get a glimpse of Gidget Gormley. This "New Yorkie" Terrier stole the show and the hearts of dog lovers when she co-starred beside Kim Cattrall -- Gidget is a bit of a feisty vixen herself!

Gidget resides in New York City with her owner, Mary Gormley. She's an experienced "actress" and dog model with an extensive resume of television, print and film projects. Keep an eye out for Gidget in future projects -- she's sure to be a hit! You can follow her career and learn more about her on her very own blog at gidgetgormley.com.

Photo © Mary Gormley

I've been talking a lot about Summer travel and where your dog falls into the plan. Sure, there are the normal options: boarding, finding a petsitter, leaving your dog with family or friends, or traveling with your dog. But what if you need more options?

Actually, there is another option. Enter PetWatch Club, a network of pet owners just like you. It's an interesting concept. First, you sign up and start networking with pet owners in your area. Next, you find someone who might be a good fit for you and your dog. Finally, you exchange pet care services. Whether you are out of town or just need someone to walk your dog while you are at work, this network gets you in touch with people who can help. All you need to do is return the favor. It can even give your dog the chance to have some playtime with other dogs while you are gone!

I have not tried this yet, but I admit it's a pretty neat idea. Would you try this service, or have you already signed up? Share your thoughts with us!

Photo © Jenna Stregowski

Could you actually take your dog to work? Tons of people will on Friday, June 20, 2008. Presented by Pet Sitters International, Take Your Dog to Work Day celebrates our dogs as companions and encourages everyone to consider adopting dogs from shelters or rescue organizations.

Now is the time to start gearing up your workplace for the big day! Talk to your boss and see if you and your coworkers can make some extra room for the dogs on Friday, June 20th. If your job is just not set up for this kind of thing, encourage friends and family to participate. Still want to be active for the cause? Anytime is a good time to begin volunteering with your local rescue group or animal shelter.

Do you plan to participate in Take Your Dog to Work Day?

Photo Ryan McVay / Getty Images