Latest news with #Chihuahuas
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Florida increases penalties for animal cruelty, creates public online database of abusers
Florida is establishing an online database of animal abusers, so people will be able to find out who in their communities has committed offenses. Proponents said it would help deter heinous acts of cruelty against defenseless animals. The database is one element of two animal-cruelty measures signed into law Wednesday by Gov. Ron DeSantis. Appearing at Big Dog Ranch Rescue, a no-kill dog rescue in Loxahatchee Groves, DeSantis and others described the importance of dogs in their lives — interspersed with horrific stories of cruelty. Inspiration for one of the new laws came from the case of a dog now known as Trooper, who was tied to a fence and abandoned along Interstate 75 as Hurricane Milton approached the state's Gulf Coast last year. Rescued by a Highway Patrol officer, the bull terrier has since been adopted by Frank and Carla Spina, of Parkland. The second law was inspired by a dog named Dexter, who was adopted from a shelter in Pinellas County — and 'killed in the most horrific way,' said Debbie Darino, an anti-animal cruelty advocate from Volusia County who pushed for the second new law. Dexter was found decapitated four days after his adoption. 'Today marks a turning point, not just for us but for thousands of dogs across this state who have no voice of their own,' said Lauree Simmons, founder of Big Dog Ranch Rescue. 'Both these bills will save lives. Not possibly, not hopefully. They will save lives,' she said, predicting that 'they will force people to think twice before they abandon their dog or commit acts of cruelty we see far too often.' Simmons said the rescue organization has cared for dogs that have been nearly starved to death, 'abandoned, abused, and left to die.' Others have been shot full of buckshot and had their ribs broken 'by hands of monsters.' Some have been 'deliberately burned,' requiring months of care. A few weeks ago, three Chihuahuas were dragged behind a truck until they had no skin left on their arms or paws, she said. 'This legislation is a signal: Enough is enough. Animal abuse must end. Those who hurt animals must be held accountable. Animal abuse is not rare. It is rampant, and it must be stopped. People who abuse animals need to be held accountable. No more slaps on the wrist, no more loopholes. You abuse an animal, you face real consequences, period,' Simmons said. Both 'Trooper's Law' and 'Dexter's Law' had unanimous support in the Florida House and Florida Senate, with all Democrats and Republicans voting yes. Dexter's Law, formally House Bill 255, requires the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to host a searchable database on its website. Starting Jan. 1, it will include the names of individuals who have been convicted of, or who have entered a plea of guilty or no contest to animal cruelty offenses. FDLE already operates another publicly searchable database, a registry that allows people to look up information about sexual offenders and predators. Darino said there are only a handful of databases across the country. The new law also imposes a 'sentencing multiplier' that would increase sentences for aggregated animal-cruelty offenses that included the knowing and intentional torture or torment of an animal that injured, mutilated, or killed the animal. That provision takes effect July 1. Palm Beach County's Wendy Sartory Link is new president of Florida elections supervisors Moskowitz, expert in disaster management, warns FEMA 'is going to fail' during hurricane season As hurricane season nears, DeSantis allays concern about federal disaster agency: 'We've never relied on FEMA' DeSantis says anyone running for Florida governor as a Democrat is 'dead meat' As markets gyrated due to Trump tariff moves, Congressman Jared Moskowitz was buying and selling stocks Trooper's Law, formally Senate Bill 150, makes it a third-degree felony to restrain a dog outside during a natural disaster and then abandon the dog. The law applies when a hurricane, tropical storm or tornado warning has been issued by the National Weather Service or the community is under a mandatory or voluntary evacuation order. The law, which goes into effect Oct. 1, would provide a penalty of up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine. It also provides for misdemeanor penalties for failing to provide confined animals sufficient food, water, and exercise, and for abandoning an animal. 'If you evacuate, make sure you're taking care of your pets. You cannot leave a dog behind if you're in an evacuation zone. All of our shelters, all of our counties have at least one shelter that is pet friendly,' DeSantis said. He also said most hotels will accommodate evacuees with pets during a natural disaster. 'So there's really no reason that you would need to be in a situation where you're leaving a dog behind.' Highway Patrol Trooper Orlando Morales found the abandoned dog, and namesake of the new law, tied to a fence as Milton approached in October 2024. Video of the dog tied to the fence surrounded by water went viral and generated extensive news coverage, galvanizing support for the new law. Morales said one of Trooper's current owners was ill on Wednesday, and the couple were not able to attend the bill-signing event. 'Trooper's Law did not come into being by accident. It didn't come out of nowhere. It started with the deplorable actions of a human being, abandoning his dog on the side of an interstate during a hurricane. It involves the rescue of that same four-legged beautiful dog by a state trooper,' said Dave Kerner, director of the state Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, which includes the Florida Highway Patrol. DeSantis emphasized that Dexter's Law would 'only apply to acts of cruelty against domesticated companion animals. This does not in any way, shape, or form impact Floridians' right to hunt and fish as that is traditionally done.' And, Darino said, it does not apply to agricultural animals. The Loxahatchee Groves event was livestreamed on the Florida Channel and on social media. The new laws were widely applauded. But several commenters objected to the decision by DeSantis appointees to the Florida Fish and Wildlive Conservation Commission to give preliminary approval for a controversial black bear hunt for later this year. 'Speak for the animals — protect Florida Black Bears!' one commenter wrote. Another said she was 'glad you are for helping dogs. I'm disappointed that you are not helping our Black Bears. Please STOP THE PROPOSED BEAR KILLING SEASON. Horrible.' Dogs were the focus on Wednesday. 'Florida will not tolerate cruelty to animals, especially in times of crisis,' DeSantis said. 'What happened to Trooper is unfortunately not an isolated incident. Across Florida we've seen horrifying instances of animal cruelty that demand a stronger response from our justice system.' DeSantis said 'most people have a very soft spot in their hearts for our four-legged friends.' The governor said since he and his wife Casey have been married 'she's been involved in fostering and helping rescue dogs.' Kerner, a former police officer and former Palm Beach County commissioner, said he was part of a contingent of Palm Beach County law enforcement officers who were dispatched to Puerto Rico to help in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in 2017. 'I remember being on top of this mountain and out of the woods and out of the trees came a potcake,' a mixed breed found in the Caribbean, Kerner said. 'Out came this dog that was just beaten, battered, bleeding, but he was smiling, and he came up to me and he put his paw on me and I promised myself that I would give him the best life that I could give him.' He enlisted help from an animal advocate, now state Rep. Meg Weinberger, who enlisted Simmons. Kerner's dog, now named Nick, became one of thousands from Puerto Rico that he said Big Dog Ranch Rescue helped after the storm. Kerner said it changed the course of his life, and the dog's. 'It's been a blessing every day.' Anthony Man can be reached at aman@ and can be found @browardpolitics on Bluesky, Threads, Facebook and Mastodon.
Newsweek
27-05-2025
- General
- Newsweek
How Chihuahua Defies Breed's Bad Rep at Vet Melts Hearts: 'Little Angel'
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A well-behaved Chihuahua has melted hearts across the internet after defying their breed's feisty reputation and enjoying attention from the vet. The dog's owner shared footage of their small beige pooch, Tapioca, receiving cuddles and affection while having his nails trimmed. The video, which shows the pup snuggling up to a vet staff member and receiving a soft kiss as his legs are examined, quickly went viral, racking up 83,900 likes and 476,500 views. "Tapioca is calm and absolutely loves people. He does get nervous at the vet, but even then, he never snaps or acts out—he just patiently waits for it to be over. Every vet we have been to always mentions how well-behaved and sweet he is. Our usual vet even said all Chihuahuas should be like Tapioca, which is the sweetest compliment and something I am really proud of," the owner, Sadie, told Newsweek. While Chihuahuas are often labeled as aggressive or reactive in clinical settings, experts say that this reputation is largely misunderstood. A split image of Tapioca the Chihuahua enjoying his time with the Vet. A split image of Tapioca the Chihuahua enjoying his time with the Vet. @tapiocathechi/@tapiocathechi Expert Insight Laurie Hood, founder of Alaqua Animal Refuge, explained that Chihuahuas are often labeled as "difficult" in vet settings due to fear, not inherent aggression. "They're small, vulnerable, and handled by strangers who are much bigger than they are, in environments that feel overwhelming. When you're that small and scared, your instinct is to defend yourself and that usually looks like growling, snapping, or trying to escape," she told Newsweek. She noticed a recent case where her shelter saved over 40 small dogs from a backyard breeder. Many Chihuahuas initially appeared aggressive. However, once placed in calm, loving homes, they quickly transformed, suggesting their behavior was rooted in survival instincts rather than personality. Hood emphasized that while genetics may play a minor role, early socialization and environment are far more influential in shaping a dog's behavior. Positive experiences, safe homes, and consistent care help dogs adapt better to stressful situations like vet visits. "Owners can make the situation feel safe and familiar. Let them ride in a cozy carrier with a blanket that smells like home. Bring treats, speak calmly, and ask the vet team to go slow if needed. You can even visit the clinic when nothing is scheduled, just to walk in, get a treat, and walk out. Do everything you can to make it a positive experience," she added. Social Media Reactions Tapioca's gentle nature drew an outpouring of admiration on TikTok, with many users chiming in to challenge the Chihuahua stereotype. "Chihuahuas are amazing dogs, people just neglect training them or they treat them bad," said one user. "Chihuahuas get a bad rap. They are sweet dogs, but they demand respect," another viewer added. "Showing my Chihuahua this is how she should behave. I don't think she cares though," joked another. "My vets love my Chihuahua. They say he's so sweet and I tell him that's a lie. He's a psycho at home. Lol," shared one user. Sadie hopes that Tapioca's example can help shift public opinion. "I also really want to help shift the perception around Chihuahuas. People are often surprised by how friendly Tapioca is, and I want to show that they are not all as feisty or mean as the stereotype suggests," she concluded. Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@ with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
Scoop
27-05-2025
- Climate
- Scoop
Too Cold For You? It's Too Cold For Your Pet Too, Says Petdirect Vet
Press Release – Petdirect Auckland, NZ – Tuesday 27 May 2025 – As New Zealand heads into its coldest months, Petdirect's in-house veterinarian, Dr. Olja Jovovich, is urging pet owners to treat winter as seriously for their pets as they do for themselves. Her key advice? 'If you're feeling the chill, your pet probably is too—keep them warm, dry, and comfortable,' says Dr. Jovovich. From shivering Whippets to indoor-bound grumpy cats, winter poses risks that many pet owners overlook. Dr. Jovovich shares essential tips to ensure pets stay healthy and happy when temperatures drop. How cold is too cold? 'A good rule of thumb is this: if you need a jacket, your dog might too,' says Dr. Jovovich. Below 10°C, small, short-haired, or senior dogs should always wear a warm coat when heading outdoors. While cats don't need jackets, they do need shelter, warmth, and the ability to come indoors freely. Signs your pet is feeling the cold Common signs include shivering, a hunched posture with tail tucked in, cold ears and paws, sluggish movement, and reluctance to go outside (which may lead to toileting accidents indoors). 'If your cat doesn't have a litter tray, they're even more at risk of developing stress-related health issues,' adds Dr. Jovovich. Winter-proofing your home Dr. Jovovich suggests raising pet beds off cold floors, using pet-safe heat pads (never electric blankets), and making sure cats have clean indoor litter trays. She recommends keeping pets stimulated with puzzle feeders. 'Rainy days don't have to mean lazy days,' she says. 'Mental stimulation can be just as important as physical exercise. Interactive puzzle toys are a great way to keep your pet's brain engaged and help prevent boredom during those indoor days.' Don't forget the paws 'Cold weather can cause painful irritation to your pet's paws, especially in colder parts of New Zealand, like down south where frosty conditions are common,' warns Dr. Jovovich. She recommends wiping or washing paws after walks, applying paw balm before and after outings, and using booties in particularly cold conditions—if the dog tolerates them. Short-haired, thin-coated, small, senior, or low-body-fat breeds—like Whippets, Greyhounds, Chihuahuas and Miniature Pinschers—should wear jackets when outdoors in the cold. Food, supplements and hydration Unless a pet's activity increases significantly in winter, there's no need to adjust their diet. Dr. Jovovich notes that most pets on a balanced or prescription diet won't need extra supplements. However, hydration still matters: 'Heaters dry out the air, so consider offering more wet food and using water fountains to encourage drinking—especially for cats.' Common seasonal risks Dr. Jovovich sees a range of winter-related issues, including: Urinary problems in cats from 'holding on' due to cold or lack of litter trays Arthritis flare-ups, especially in older pets Unnoticed weight gain from lower activity levels Dry skin and dull coats, particularly in areas with drier air Breathing issues in flat-faced breeds exposed to cold or dry conditions Dr. Jovovich's final tip for all pet owners: 'If you're cold, your pet probably is too—keep them warm, dry, and comfortable this winter.'' About Petdirect Petdirect's mission is to become New Zealand's most trusted and convenient destination for pet owners. Launched just as the country entered its first lockdown in March 2020, Petdirect quickly emerged as a leader in the online pet specialty space. By combining a wide range of premium products and services with exceptional customer care and consistently competitive pricing, Petdirect built a loyal customer base and earned the top spot in the online pet specialty market by July 2023.
Scoop
26-05-2025
- Climate
- Scoop
Too Cold For You? It's Too Cold For Your Pet Too, Says Petdirect Vet
Press Release: Petdirect Auckland, NZ – Tuesday 27 May 2025 – As New Zealand heads into its coldest months, Petdirect's in-house veterinarian, Dr. Olja Jovovich, is urging pet owners to treat winter as seriously for their pets as they do for themselves. Her key advice? 'If you're feeling the chill, your pet probably is too—keep them warm, dry, and comfortable,' says Dr. Jovovich. From shivering Whippets to indoor-bound grumpy cats, winter poses risks that many pet owners overlook. Dr. Jovovich shares essential tips to ensure pets stay healthy and happy when temperatures drop. How cold is too cold? 'A good rule of thumb is this: if you need a jacket, your dog might too,' says Dr. Jovovich. Below 10°C, small, short-haired, or senior dogs should always wear a warm coat when heading outdoors. While cats don't need jackets, they do need shelter, warmth, and the ability to come indoors freely. Signs your pet is feeling the cold Common signs include shivering, a hunched posture with tail tucked in, cold ears and paws, sluggish movement, and reluctance to go outside (which may lead to toileting accidents indoors). 'If your cat doesn't have a litter tray, they're even more at risk of developing stress-related health issues,' adds Dr. Jovovich. Winter-proofing your home Dr. Jovovich suggests raising pet beds off cold floors, using pet-safe heat pads (never electric blankets), and making sure cats have clean indoor litter trays. She recommends keeping pets stimulated with puzzle feeders. 'Rainy days don't have to mean lazy days,' she says. 'Mental stimulation can be just as important as physical exercise. Interactive puzzle toys are a great way to keep your pet's brain engaged and help prevent boredom during those indoor days.' Don't forget the paws 'Cold weather can cause painful irritation to your pet's paws, especially in colder parts of New Zealand, like down south where frosty conditions are common,' warns Dr. Jovovich. She recommends wiping or washing paws after walks, applying paw balm before and after outings, and using booties in particularly cold conditions—if the dog tolerates them. Short-haired, thin-coated, small, senior, or low-body-fat breeds—like Whippets, Greyhounds, Chihuahuas and Miniature Pinschers—should wear jackets when outdoors in the cold. Food, supplements and hydration Unless a pet's activity increases significantly in winter, there's no need to adjust their diet. Dr. Jovovich notes that most pets on a balanced or prescription diet won't need extra supplements. However, hydration still matters: 'Heaters dry out the air, so consider offering more wet food and using water fountains to encourage drinking—especially for cats.' Common seasonal risks Dr. Jovovich sees a range of winter-related issues, including: Urinary problems in cats from 'holding on' due to cold or lack of litter trays Arthritis flare-ups, especially in older pets Unnoticed weight gain from lower activity levels Dry skin and dull coats, particularly in areas with drier air Breathing issues in flat-faced breeds exposed to cold or dry conditions Dr. Jovovich's final tip for all pet owners: 'If you're cold, your pet probably is too—keep them warm, dry, and comfortable this winter.'" About Petdirect Petdirect's mission is to become New Zealand's most trusted and convenient destination for pet owners. Launched just as the country entered its first lockdown in March 2020, Petdirect quickly emerged as a leader in the online pet specialty space. By combining a wide range of premium products and services with exceptional customer care and consistently competitive pricing, Petdirect built a loyal customer base and earned the top spot in the online pet specialty market by July 2023.
Time of India
26-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
5 low-maintenance dog breeds for busy professionals
While many people would love to have a pet dog, not many can do so, considering financial and time constraints. Having a pet dog comes with its own set of care, and it's a lifelong responsibility. But the good news is that some breeds are perfectly suited for low-fuss living. They're independent, easy to groom, and content with moderate exercise-- which makes them ideal pets for people with busy schedules. So, here we list some such low-maintenance dog breeds that fit well into a busy lifestyle without compromising on companionship: French Bulldogs are small and affectionate pet dog breeds with big personalities. They like lounging around for most of the day which makes them a great companion for apartment dwellers and busy professionals. These dogs have short coats, and so they need minimal grooming—an occasional brushing and a quick wipe of the facial folds is usually enough. They don't need long walks or excessive playtime, making them ideal for busy people who would like to have a pet dog. Frenchies are people-oriented but not clingy, so they're fine entertaining themselves while you're away at work. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Basset Hounds may look droopy and slow— but that's also what makes them look cute! These gentle, laid-back dogs are content with short walks and plenty of naps, and they are known for their calm temperament-- all of this makes them perfect companions for busy people. As for their grooming, their need is pretty basic as they have a short coat. But they need regular ear cleaning as they have long, floppy ears. They're affectionate without being overly needy, and this makes them great companions for those who have a hectic schedule and would still want to have a pet dog. Tiny but confident, Chihuahuas are one of the easiest dogs to manage in terms of size and space. They are small but are known to be full of personality. They don't need much exercise and grooming, and are known to form strong bonds with their owners-- which makes them a great pet dog choice for people with busy schedules. Surprisingly, Greyhounds are often called the 'couch potatoes' of the dog world and rightly so, as they love to relax and lounge around for a major part of their day. They have short coats that rarely shed and require minimal grooming. Greyhounds are gentle, quiet, and well-mannered, making them perfect for professionals looking for a calm, low-maintenance dog. Shih Tzus are cute, affectionate, small dogs for those living in apartments and have a busy schedule. These dogs are known for their long, flowing coats, but when kept in a 'puppy cut,' they're surprisingly easy to maintain. They don't require intense exercise— simple, short walks and some indoor playtime is enough to keep them happy. Also, while they love human company, they aren't overly demanding and this makes them an ideal choice for busy people. Viral video: Japanese man pays Rs 12 lakh for a perfect costume that makes him look and move around like a dog One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
