I figured this day would arrive, all the while hoping I would be wrong about it. But folks, it appears we in the U.S. have our first confirmed case of H1N1 influenza (previously called "swine flu") in a canine. The AVMA has posted an update on their H1N1 Public Health news page. According to a press release from IDEXX Laboratories:

A 13-year-old dog had a several-day history of not feeling or eating well, a dry cough and a fever on presentation to its veterinarian. The dog was treated for pneumonia and improved with hospitalization and supportive care. The dog tested positive on the IDEXX H1N1 Influenza Virus RealPCR Test.

The dog, living in Bedford Hills, New York, reportedly became ill after its owner had a confirmed case of H1N1 flu. Read more...

Everyone knows Greyhounds as speedy and sleek runners. After all, they are the fastest dogs in the world. But not everyone knows what great pets they are. Greyhound puppies for sale are not very common, as most are bred for the races. What happens when their racing careers are over? Nowadays, they tend to enter a comfortable retirement, often beginning between age two and five. I just love Greyhounds and always have, but I'm getting to the point where I really, really want to adopt a retired racer. These majestic, aerodynamic beauties are affectionate companions who deserve only the best possible retirements. There are plenty of adoption programs out there to check out, and Greyhounds are a good match for many different kinds of homes.

While the Greyhound is often considered a low-maintenance dog, there are some unique considerations. A newly retired racer has probably never seen an average home environment and needs to be eased into the new sights and sounds. Things like glass doors, stairs and other pets can cause confusion at first. The good news is that the transition usually takes just a few weeks and the people with the adoption program will help you. In the end, you'll have a devoted companion and gentle friend. Learn all about the graceful Greyhound and consider adopting one to share your life.

Photo © DaveFayram on flickr

We are frequently reminded that dogs are predatory creatures. This can be easily proven when your dog takes off after a squirrel or mutilates a squeaky toy. But we don't often think of dogs as prey. Sadie the Pomeranian begs to differ. As reported by Iowa's Quad-City Times, the tiny Pomeranian was literally snatched by a by a great horned owl on December 5th. Ten-year-old Sadie was carried over two miles until the owl dropped her in a city street. Fortunately, a driver saw her falling and kept the owl from retrieving her.

Thankfully, Sadie survived and suffered no serious physical injuries. However, she was left with a broken tail and a tremendous scare. Sadie's owner says that she became frightened by fireworks and ran off to the woods. Sadie and her grateful owner are now together and quite relieved. It was a close call and a good reminder to everyone: keep your dog leashed or indoors, and avoid fireworks when possible. Pets can be lost or stolen in the blink of an eye.

Learn more from About.com Guide to Birding, Melissa Mayntz:

• Pomeraninan Snatched by Owl (more about great horned owls)
• About Birding and Wild Birds

California is overflowing with homeless Chihuahuas. As reported by the LA Times and other sources, shelters in California have more Chihuahuas than they know what to do with. This is not really the case in other parts of the US. In fact, many of these Chihuahuas have been sent of different regions where demand is high and little dogs are few.

What caused the overabundance? It was probably a combination of several things. First of all, Chihuahuas have been among the most popular of all dog breeds for several years. Secondly, certain celebs have made these "purse dogs" look like the hottest thing in fashion. The film Beverly Hills Chihuahua probably didn't help this situation either.

No matter what the reason for the surge in popularity, the reason they are all homeless probably comes down to two things: 1) The economy, and 2) people got in over their heads. Though they are adorable and wonderful dogs, Chihuahuas are not right for everyone. They are tiny and fragile in physique, but tough and stubborn in personality. They do not always play well with others - especially children, and especially without proper training. Yes, Chihuahuas need more than to be carried around in little pink bags. They need training, socialization and everything else all dogs need. Give them these things, and you can end up with quite an amazing dog. Learn all about Chihuahuas and decide if this adorable breed could be right for you. Know all about them? Tell us your Chihuahua stories today!

Photo © Brygida T.