Hollywood & Celebrity Pet News

Come on Angelina! Brad's right--every kid should have a dog!

2007-10-04T21:26:00.000-07:00

If the National Ledger is to be believed, Angelina's pissed at Brad. And why? Because he wants to get a dog for their children!

We all knew Angelina wasn't the warmest person around, but preventing her own children from the enjoying the love and companionship of a pet is simply cruel!

According to an insider, "Brad and Angelina have gone around and around about the dog issue. Angelina feels there are too many issues precluding them from getting a pet – they're always traveling, and the household staff would end up caring for the animal."

Just so we're clear--their lifestyle doesn't preclude them from adopting or having a dozen kids, but Angelina thinks a pet is too much?!? What kind of parent must she be if she'd treat the kids worse than a dog?

Alicia and Dita go Sexy for PETA

2007-09-30T20:58:00.000-07:00

We're not sure how naked Hollywood starlets help to change minds, but PETA keeps trying, God love them!

This time its Alicia Silverstone for eliminating meat and Dita Von Teese for Animal Birth Control.

Pixie Acia of L.A. Ink Talks Dogs

2007-09-25T18:49:00.001-07:00

Girls with this many tattoos usually don't meet with our approval, but Pixie totally makes it work. Plus, she loves animals!

The star of TV's L.A. Ink and the manager of High Voltage Tattoo studio in Los Angeles is the proud owner of two pit bulls named Cupcake and Chopper and a cat named Monkey. According to BuddyTV.com, Pixie hopes to launch her own doggie rescue in the future, and she hinted that viewers will see more about her love of animals in future episodes of LA Ink.

“I have been a huge dog lover my whole life… I currently have two of the cutest Pit bull girls in the world! They live together in perfect harmony with my cat, Monkey. They fill our house with so much love,” she said.

Read more on BuddyTV.com.

Richard Pryor's Widow Honors His Legacy With Dog Rescue

2007-09-23T17:55:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Lee Pryor and famous comedian and actor Richard Pryor were separated at one time, but their shared love of animals (especially dogs) led them to reconcile. Now, Jennifer is honoring her late husband by working tirelessly to help animals as part of the dog rescue program Pryor's Planet.

Check out the article on CBS2.com and KCAL9.com. You'll learn about Jennifer's animal advocacy, her mission and support of dog rescue, her need for volunteers and her late husband's love of the planet, the environment and all creatures big and small.

For more information about Pryor's Planet or Richard Pryor's animal legacy visit pryorsplanet.com or richardpryor.com.

Charlie Sheen Kicks Dogs

2007-09-23T17:18:00.001-07:00

We were not huge fans of Charlie Sheen or his hit show, "Two Men and a Kid Who's Aging Awkwardly," but now not we're not fans at all. The Sun Online reports that Denise Richards (who might've thought twice about marrying famed playboy Sheen in the first place) has filed court papers accusing Charlie of kicking the family dog in front of their kids.

Sheen denies it, of course. If true, Charlie needs to get over himself. If he feels the need to get violent, perhaps he can find someone to kick the crap out of him instead of taking his insecurities out on a defenseless pet! Shame on you, Charlie!

Vegan Vixens Post to Fight Dog Fighting

2007-09-20T19:51:00.000-07:00

We have nothing against hotties posing for a good cause. And this is a good cause!

The Vegan Vixens have released a football themed anti-dog fighting poster, shot by celebrity photographer David Gomez whose recent works include projects for Von Dutch and Harley Davidson.

And if you are in LA and want a signed poster, the Vixens, in conjunction with the Humane Society (HSUS), will be on site for a performance and poster signing at The Sunset Room on Saturday, September 29th. The Sunset Room is located at 1430 N. Cahuenga in Hollywood.

Susan Sarandon Goes Dog Crazy

2007-09-18T18:52:00.000-07:00

Susan Sarandon is a goddess--beautiful, talented, and spectacular. And We thought that before we even knew she's crazy for her dog!

On the set of "Mr. Woodcock," her dog Penny got the star treatment. The costume designers decided to dress up the dog just like her beauty queen character.

Says Susan, "They did a really sweet thing. I had brought my little dog, who’s just a mutty dog and they made her a prom dress just like mine. … She wore it to my son Jack’s pre-prom junior year dance, last May. It had little rhinestones and was made from the same material as my outfit in the film."

She's even started a scrap book with her dog in pictures on different sets because, "it’s pretty funny."

We love Susan!

Michael Vick ruins it for other celeb Pit Bull Owners

2007-08-18T11:24:00.000-07:00

I think it's sad what Michael Vick has done to the breed of Pit Bulls. I don't mean the inhumane treatment, for which I hope Vick pays dearly. We're talking about the fact he's reinforced the stereotype of Pit Bulls as naturally mean and dangerous dogs.

We know some Pit Bulls, and they are delightful creatures--happy, easygoing, and loyal. Many, many Pit Bull owners love to brag about their pets. And then along comes Michael Vick and his headlines, and now other celeb Pit Bull owners are reluctant to speak about their pets.

Michael Griffin is one of those Pit Bull owners. He is the Tennessee Titans' top draft pick in 2007 and is known for his love of his Pit Bulls. When he played in Austin, Griffin would give the media weekly updates about his dogs, how he looked for dog shows on the Internet and how he enjoyed breeding them.

Now, he won't chat about his love of the breed. Michael Vick has ruined it for him. It's sad to see, but hopefully loving and positive owners like Griffin will begin to salvage the Pit Bull's reputation by letting people know the breed can be safe when raised, treated, and bred appropriately.

Read more on OxfordPress.com.

Orlando Bloom dines with his dog

2007-08-15T22:34:00.000-07:00

Here's a nice shot of the dashing Orlando Bloom going out to dinner with his date--his dog. This shot is from SplashNewsOnline.com.

Deion Sanders is a Shallow, Stupid, Awful Human Being

2007-08-15T20:53:00.000-07:00

Did you hear about this? Did you hear about Deion Sanders' column about Michael Vick? Can you believe it?

Michael Vick's arrest for dog fighting is well known, but let's review the facts quickly to set the stage for the piles of bullshit Deion Sanders heaped on top of this horror:

A federal grand jury indicted Vick for "knowingly sponsoring... an animal fighting venture" over the course of six years.
Based on reports from those involved in his illegal operation, Vick is alleged to have participated in illegal gambling, personally handling cash settlements with purses as high as $26,000 for single match. (Big man--makes $26,000 while a dog dies. How proud that must have made him feel.)
The indictment included specifics of the extensive violence against dogs, including executions by electrocution, hanging, drowning, shooting, and other brutality.
His partners in crime reported Vick direct participated in executing "8 dogs in or about April 2007" at his Virginia property.
At least one dog was killed by being "slammed to the ground."
Federal authorities took possession of animals who were recovered alive but had to be destroyed because of their training as fighting animals.

How any normal human could read that and not get angry is beyond us. But of course, athletes have to band together to support each other (and prove how ignorant, crass, and undeserving of hero worship they are.) So Deion Sanders published a column in The News-Press that reads like it was written by a 10-year-old with no sense of right or wrong. For example:

"What a dog means to Vick might be a lot different than what he means to you or I." True, a dog to me is a living being with feelings, emotions, and the capacity for great caring. To Michael Vick they're living pieces of meat whose torture, pain, and death are cause for drinking, carousing, and a good time.
"Some people kiss their dogs on the mouth. Some people let their dogs eat from their plate. Some people dress their dogs in suits more expensive than mine, if you can believe that. And some people enjoy proving they have the biggest, toughest dog on the street." Just to be clear, Deion believes all of the following fall into the same classification: Kissing dogs on the mouth, eating with dogs, dressing dogs, and slamming a dog to the ground with such force that the dog's skull is crushed and he dies from trauma.
"You're probably not going to believe this, but I bet Vick loves the dogs that were the biggest and the baddest." Yes, I believe Vick "loved" the dogs that were the biggest and baddest. The others? He drowned, electrocuted, hung, shot, and crushed to death. But hey, he really, really loved the dogs that lived, so Deion says that's just fine.
"Are we using Vick to get to the ringleader? Are we using him to bring an end to dogfighting in the United States? The only thing I can gather from this situation is that we're using Vick." Poor, poor Michael Vick. The guy breaks Federal laws on racketeering, gambling, and animal cruelty; he funds it; he participates in it; he personally murders animals in the cruelest of ways--and now he must take responsibility for his actions. And to Deion this is the equivalent of "using" Michael Vick.
"I believe Vick had a passion for dogfighting. I know many athletes who share his passion. The allure is the intensity and the challenge of a dog fighting to the death. It's like ultimate fighting, but the dog doesn't tap out when he knows he can't win." First of all, the fact that Deion acknowledges "many athletes" share the "passion" of animal cruelty is disgusting. Secondly, he mentions it as if Vick should be held less accountable because all the other kids are doing it. And perhaps the most offensive part of this statement is the implication that dogfighting is so much better and more enjoyable because the dogs fight to the death unlike, apparently, wimpy human fighters who expect and are provided an opportunity to live, even after losing a match.
"It reminds me of when I wore a lot of jewelry back in the day because I always wanted to have the biggest chain or the biggest, baddest car. It gives you status." Yes, Deion is now comparing the torture and murder of living creatures to wearing jewelry. Apparently, so long as a man with big muscles, a small dick, and no brain can achieve "status" by electrocuting or shooting a dog, it's okay to Deion.
"The reason this is turning into a three-ring circus is that baseball is boring, basketball is months away, football is around the corner and we in the media don't have a thing interesting to write about." No, Deion, the reason this has become a media circus is 1) Michael Vick broke the law, and 2) his actions are so offensive that any human being with a shred of decency is outraged and horrified. You, Mr. Sanders, are apparently not among the human beings with a shred of decency.

I don't know why you'd want to read more, but to see Deion Sanders prove his ignorance, callousness, and cold-heartedness, you can read the entire text here.

Tell Jeff Bezos to Stand Up for Animals

2007-08-10T15:32:00.000-07:00

Do you consider Jeff Bezos a celebrity? You do if you know much about the heavyweights of the Internet. Mr. Bezos is the founder and CEO of Amazon. He is one of our idols--a guy who started a business in his garage, leveraged the power of the Internet, and became one of the most famous examples of dot-com success.

But he needs a little straightening out. Amazon is selling cockfighting magazines and dogfighting videos! Can you believe it? Neither can we!

So, please take action. Help the Human Society of the US send a message to Jeff. In just a couple of seconds, you can complete and send an email to let him know Amazon should not be involved with this kind of horrible animal abuse.

Just visit: https://community.hsus.org/campaign/US_2007_amazon_fighting3

Britney and Dog in Parking Lot Hit and Run

2007-08-09T19:14:00.000-07:00

Britney, driving with her dog in her arms, has a low-speed fender bender in a parking lot. What is it that we should find most disturbing?

That she is carrying her dog in her lap while driving, even though she was criticized by... well... everyone for doing the same thing with her child last year?
That she checks her car and never even thinks to check the car she hit?
That everything this gal does is chronicled by at least two dozen paparazzi who photograph every single second of her life?

The video...

Paris buys another pup

2007-08-07T19:57:00.001-07:00

Just last week we reported how PETA was protesting Paris and Britney for purchasing dogs from stores rather than going to shelters for a pet. It appears little Miss Reformed-and-dedicating-herself-to-good gave PETA a big "screw you." Not only did she purchase a new puppy at a store, but she did so at the same store where Britney bought her last pup.

Come on, Hollywood! There are so many animals needing a good home at shelters--go be a real animal lover and save one!

Read more on 9WSYR.com.

Britney takes dog to Vet

2007-08-05T21:29:00.000-07:00

There seem to be a lot of unanswered questions in this brief article from Us Magazine. Why is Britney, a mother of two, staying out until 2 am? And why did she drive her dog to the vet, only to let her friend take the pooch in? And why does she stay in the car in pull view of paparazzi and then get upset at them?

This chick continues to be a train wreck.

Sheryl Crow's dog gets trained

2007-08-05T20:08:00.000-07:00

Hollywood dog trainer Tyson Kilmer is a busy man. In 12 years, Tyson has never advertised for clients. Hollywood stars keep him busy with positive word of mouth. His clients have included Marilyn Manson, Rob Lowe, Mike Tyson, Joni Mitchell, Rose McGowan and Mark McGrath.

The latest start to ask him for help is Sheryl Crow. Says Tyson, "Sheryl wanted to be able to take him on the road with her, take him to hotels, restaurants, backstage."

Kilmer's unique approach -- somewhere between dog-whispering and firm parenting -- is based on his belief that dogs are not trained so much as they are "incorporated" into a lifestyle, and socialized.

Check out this article for more on Tyson and his tips for dog companions.

PETA Protesters Dress Like Paris and Britney

2007-08-05T20:05:00.000-07:00

Check out this funny video. It shows PETA protesters dressing like Paris and Britney to make a point. They want people to avoid breeders and pet stores and instead obtain their pets from shelters.

According to PETA, for every dog or cat purchased from a breeder or pet store, another dog or cat on death row at an animal shelter must be killed.

"Forget jail or rehab," PETA Director Daphna Nachminovitch says. "These selfish stars should do a stint in an animal shelter."

We think that's a fabulous idea!

Click here to read more.

McCartney boycots animal-testing charities

2007-08-05T19:59:00.000-07:00

Sir Paul McCartney has been praised by animal rights group PETA after announcing plans to boycott cancer charities who test on animals. This is especially big news since Paul is completely dedicated to supporting cancer charities since the passing of his wife, Linda. But now, he's being more selective.

"When Linda died I said I would support cancer charities. Animal rights groups wrote to me pointing out that many were heavily into vivisection - and it's true. A doctor we knew out in America just admitted it as a matter of fact, innocently, like 'Well, sure we do.' What he doesn't realise is that he won't get a donation out of me for that very fact. There are better alternatives but you're not allowed to challenge the status quo."

That's a strong statement from someone who cares a lot about animals and about fighting cancer! We like his principles, and we also like his latest single!

Read more here.

Petra Nemcova Goes Vegan

2007-08-05T19:55:00.000-07:00

Czech supermodel Petra Nemcova has become a vegan after reading up on the planet's fish problems. She did so to set an example and help save ocean life. Nemcova explains, "I read that if we fish the way we fish, in 2048 there will be no more fish left, which is pretty soon. So it's a statement."

Brains. Caring. Beauty. We love her!

Click here to read more.

Britney's Dog Poop Photo Shoot

2007-07-25T21:06:00.001-07:00

We keep rooting for Britney to get it together--really we do--but we keep getting disappointed. Britney just doesn't seem to have a clue how a mature woman acts, even when doing something as simple as cleaning up after her dog.

Britney hoped to turn a photo shoot for OK! Magazine into a career relaunch, but instead it has become a PR nightmare. Rather than publishing the photo shoot, OK! launched a scathing article that said, in part, "What we experienced was a young girl who is desperately in need of help. And sadly she has surrounded herself with too many people who are pretending that nothing is wrong."

Britney let her new puppy poop on a $6,700 Zac Posen gown, wiped her greasy hands on a pink silk Alisha Levine dress, took repeated bathroom breaks without closing the door and fled after four test shots still wearing more than $14,000 of OK!'s borrowed clothing, the magazine said.

We do not--of course--blame the puppy. Who leaves a $6,700 dress laying around? Bad Britney! Bad Britney!

Read more on Reuters.com.

Britney out on the town with her puppy

2007-07-24T14:34:00.000-07:00

Check out this Splash News video. It shows Britney out for a day of shopping and lunch with her puppy.

What's startling isn't that a young woman and her dog are out and about, but you just have to see the number of photogs and video crew members chasing her each step of the way. There must be 50 people all taking the same shots and shooting constantly. We love a good celeb shot as much as the next person, but really--how many photos does the world really need of Britney?

And this poor puppy. That is one mellow dog to put up with that much hysteria!

http://www.splashnewsonline.com/2007/07/24/britney-has-no-ordinary-shopping-trip/

Jodie Marsh looks for love, but dog is loyal

2007-07-23T19:34:00.000-07:00

Model Jodie Marsh is looking for love, but she relies on her dog for companionship. The soft core model launched a web site in May soliciting submissions from men interested in marrying Jodie. If you're interested, check out http://www.marryjodiemarsh.com/. (The site is rated somewhere between PG-13 and R.)

The 28-year-old insisted that her bulldog Paddy was far more 'loyal' and good looking than most men she has met till now. "He's more loyal and better looking," the Sun quoted Mash, as saying.

You can read more on DailyIndia.com.

Throw the book at Michael Vick

2007-07-23T05:17:00.000-07:00

Michael Vick deserves to lose it all--his promising career, his wealth, his celebrity status, and his place in football history. It it were up to us, he'd be forced to fight for the death, and if he fails to fight well, we'd shoot, electrocute, hang or drown him.

Sound harsh? That's exactly what he has been accused of doing to other living beings. We know this has been in the headlines for weeks, but we've worked to ignore the news because we don't appreciate news stories that involve the harming of innocent animals. But today, we read an article in the Courrier-Journal and it got our blood boiling!

I hope Mr. Vick is not permitted to escape from the significant pain and suffering he's inflicted on animals. His dog fighting operation was so large and so cruel that 60 pit bulls taken from his property will have to be killed because they cannot be reprogrammed to respond to other animals in a non-aggressive way. God only knows how many other sentient beings were killed or maimed for Mr. Vick's amusement.

I hope he never plays football again. In fact, I hope he is incarcerated and by the time he gets out of jail he's an old man who can see the achievements and wealth attained by his teammates while he wasted away for the suffering he inflicted on others.

Read more at http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070721/OPINION01/707210376.

Tara plays football with a dog

2007-07-22T09:10:00.000-07:00

Other bloggers are concentrating on whatever the heck it is Tara did to her stomach--Plastic surgery is best left to the professionals, kids!--but we'll focus on the cute little pooch she's playing with. Not sure he's big enough for the football squad just yet.

More photos on HollywoodTuna.com.

Paris and her pooches

2007-07-22T09:07:00.001-07:00

Yeah, we got lazy and stopped posting. You know, it gets mentally difficult to continually look at news of people who are famous for being famous. Begins to make one wonder why you work so hard at doing something real, you know?

Well, we'll see if we can't do a better job on this blog, starting with this: A photo of Paris Hilton with her arms full of dogs at her Malibu beach house. Let's hope the reformed Paris is dedicating herself to treating her many pets with the love and respect they deserve!

See more photos on Dlisted.com.

Britney's new dog

2007-01-11T20:34:00.000-08:00

Britney was recently named the worst dog owner after her pets disappeared upon the birth of her son. Looks like she wants to redeem herself, because US Weekly tells us the pop princess was seen with her son, Sean Preston, selecting a new puppy. Britney named the chihuahua "Snow White."

Check out the picture and more info here.

Barney's Holiday Extravaganza

2007-01-03T16:43:00.000-08:00

We're a little late in posting this, but apparently we must've fallen off the White House mailing list. Here is Barney's Holiday Extravaganza from 2006. Looks a bit like a bad high school video project to us, but who are we to criticize the the best friend to the most powerful man in the world?

That Barney is one smart pooch!

Lou Rawls suing Marvin Gaye

2007-01-02T18:51:00.000-08:00

Okay, so maybe Lou Rawls isn't suing Marvin Gaye, but the son of music legend Lou Rawls is suing the son of Motown legend Marvin Gaye. Isn't that a little ironic?

Lou Rawls Jr. claims that Marvin Gaye III has some dogs in need of some whispering. Mr. Rawls claims he was "bit, clawed and physically and mentally injured" on a visit to Mr. Gaye's estate.

Poorly trained dogs are no laughing matter. But there ain't no mountain high enough to find out what's going on with bad dogs. Mr. Rawls needs more than sexual healing, and he is saying "let's get it on" in court until Mr. Gaye pleads "Mercy Mercy Me!"

PETA announces "World's Sexiest Vegetarians"

2006-12-23T12:36:00.000-08:00

We didn't even know about this poll! We missed my chance until next year, dammit!

PETA announced that funkmeister Prince and the Veronica Mars star Kristen Bell were selected the 2006 winners of PETA's "World's Sexiest Vegetarians" poll.

Prince says he won't eat "anything with parents" because "Thou shalt not kill means just that!" and Kristen noted, "I have always been an animal lover. I had a hard time disassociating the animals I cuddled with—dogs and cats, for example—from the animals on my plate." Kristen is crazy about her dogs, Shakey, Lola, and Sadie!

You can read more on GoVeg.com.

Tori Spelling and Dean McDermott use a Dog Stroller

2006-12-20T19:35:00.000-08:00

Our blog sponsor, JustPetStrollers.com, was thrilled that People Magazine included a photo of Tori walking Mimi in a pet stroller. Turns out the online pet stroller store had provided the stroller to Tori and Dean. (They say they spoke with both of the stars to help them select the right pet stroller, and they found both Tori and Dean to be very down to earth and genuine people!)

Once the photo hit People, it started being posted on blogs all over the Internet! You can learn more on TMZ.com or TheSuperficial. PerezHilton spoke with Tori and found out Mimi is having some hip problems. It's nice to see Tori spending quality time with Mimi despite her ailments, which otherwise might keep the pooch at home!

Oprah rocks, Britney sucks

2006-12-19T18:36:00.000-08:00

Hollywood Dog and New York Dog again sponsored a poll to see who is the best and worst celebrity dog owner. Last year's loser was Paris Hilton, but this year Britney took the "worst" spot. Says Hilary O'Hagan, editor of The New York Dog and The Hollywood Dog magazines, "She once had three Chihuahuas ... and never left home without at least one of them on her arm. As soon as she [married Kevin Federline] and had kids they [the dogs] disappeared." (Trading three tiny dogs for one big dog is not a good trade, Britney!)

As for the best celeb dog owner, last year's winner Joss Stone was replaced by Oprah Winfrey.

You can learn more on DFW.com.

Famke Janssen wants you to be an angel

2006-12-18T12:51:00.000-08:00

Famke Janssen wants you to "Be an Angel for Animals," and having seen her sexy new PETA ad, who are we to disagree? The ad features her best friend, costar and canine companion, Licorice.

Famke is asking that you spay or neuter your companion animal, set aside quality time, and report cruelty to animals. You can learn more and see Famke's PETA video on GoVeg.com.

Dakota Fanning, Steve Buscemi, Cedric the Entertainer, & André Benjamin tell pet stories

2006-12-10T19:19:00.000-08:00

Fern, Templeton the rat, Golly the gander, and Elwyn the crow are doing press for the upcoming release of "Charlotte's Web." Those are the characters played by Dakota Fanning, Steve Buscemi, Cedric the Entertainer, & André Benjamin, and the actors are sharing their favorite pet stories.

E.B. White's "Charlotte Web" is one of the most beloved childrens books of all time. Opening on Friday, December 15, the big-screen version should be a treat for childrem (and pet lovers) of all ages!

Over on Beliefnet, Dakota Fanning talks about her first pet, a horse. She also says that "Charlotte's Web" is "such an iconic story." Okay, what normal 12-year-old girl uses words like "iconic"?!? But, we suppose what normal 12-year-old girl stars in movies with Tom Cruise, Robert De Niro, Denzel Washington, Mike Myers, Patrick Dempsey, Sean Penn, and Kurt Russell?

Steve Buscemi also shares stories about his boyhood pet, a terrier named Murphy. And André Benjamin tells a heartbreaking story about how his little puppy died because he left some candy on a table and the puppy tried to eat it and died.

Luckily, most of the stars have happier tales to tell than André. You can read them on all on Beliefnet.com.

The Ladies of "The View" give Dakota Fanning a pet stroller

2006-12-10T07:16:00.000-08:00

A celebrity pet stroller sighting was made on "The View" on December 8th. The too-talented-for-her-age Dakota Fanning was on the ABC morning gabfest to plug her new movie, "Charlotte's Web." At the end of the interview, Barbara Walters, Elisabeth Hasselbeck, Joy Behar, and Rosie O'Donnell pulled out a Pet Gear Happy Trails Plus Pink Pet Stroller to present to actress as a gift.

Gossip Alert: An insider tells us that even though Rosie says the four multi-millionaire hosts chipped in to purchase that pet stroller, they really didn't! The stroller was really a gift from the manufacturer!

You can see pet-loving Dakota receive the gift from at the end of this interview.

Mimi La Rue (and Tori) has a yard sale

2006-12-08T07:25:00.000-08:00

Don't the rich and famous have better ways to get rid of junk than a yard sale? And here's a better question: Why weren't we there to get our piece of celeb memorabilia?

Tori Spelling cleaned out her attic and held a yard sale. Yes, a real yard sale in front of her Studio City home!

The stuff that really would've interested us (of course) were the items from her pooch, Mimi La Rue. For instance, People tells us you could pick up some dog shampoo for just $20.

Of interest is that our blog sponsor, JustPetStollers.com, recently had some interactions with Tori and her hubbie, Dean McDermott. Perhaps you'll see them strolling Mimi in a pet stroller soon. But most importantly, it was reported that Tori and Dean were delightful, down-to-earth folks who handled their own affairs rather than relying on an assistant. Apparently, celebs (or at least these celebs) aren't that much different than the rest of us!

See more about Tori's yard sale on AOL.com.

Obituary: Max the Pig

2006-12-06T19:35:00.000-08:00

George Clooney's pet pig, Max, has passed away. Max, a pot-bellied pig, was 18 years old.

George often spoke of how much his pet meant to him, so we join other pet lovers in offering George our condolences.

The Guardian has an article with more information about Max's life, including that Max was even the cause of a couple break-ups for the handsome, talented, and still single actor. (Here's a hint for those of you who aren't pet lovers like we are: Never, ever issue the ultimatum "It's me or the pet." You won't like the answer!)

Read more on Guardian.co.uk.

(If this wasn't such a sad news item, we'd be tempted to ask what Taylor Hicks is doing with George's pig in the picture at right.)

Nancy Meyers directs and plays with dog simultaneously

2006-12-03T07:52:00.000-08:00

In an interview with MoviesOnline, Cameron Diaz talks about acting with a canine actor in her new movie, The Holidays.

The dog wasn't starstruck to be working with talented folks like Cameron, Ed Burns, Kate Winslet, and Jack Black. Says Cameron, "The dog was really old and he was over it. He’s like 'I’ve been doing this way too long to even be about to make you guys happy.'"

Now, never having been on a real Hollywood movie set, I was always under the impression that the director was laser focus on the shots and the acting, but apparently Nancy Meyers makes time for dogs, too. According to Cameron, "Nancy played the dog a lot. She was off screen (Diaz barking). Nancy was barking. It was fun."

You can read more from the interview with Cameron on MoviesOnline.com.

Heather Mills campaigns for pets

2006-12-01T20:24:00.000-08:00

Just when we were prepared to buy into the perception of Heather Mills as a shrill and unpleasant woman, she goes and does something like this that makes us think better of her.

Heather, who's been ravaged in the press since separating from one of the most beloved and popular men on the planet, hasn't let the media shake her resolve to make the world a better place for pets. The anti-fur campaigner flew into Brussels to deliver a 250,000-signature petition, backing calls for the trade in cat and dog fur across Europe to be banned. (Why the hell is there even trade in this in the first place?!?! And Europeans think we Americans are crass!)

You can read more about Heather's campaign on DailyIndia.com. And we hope Heather and Paul work out their problems quickly! The entire affair around the Mills-McCartney is extremely unpleasant and unbecoming of two people who've done so much for the world.

"Sit, Ubu, sit! Good dog!"

2006-11-30T09:06:00.000-08:00

Ever wonder about that voice saying "Sit, Ubu, sit! Good dog!" after some of your favorite shows? (At least, they're some of our favorite shows, such as Family Ties and Spin City.)

Wikipedia has the answer! (Wikipedia always has the answer!)

Ubu was the name of Gary David Goldberg's dog. The dog, whose full name was Ubu Roi, was named after Ubu Roi, an 1896 play by Alfred Jarry that is considered the defining classic of the Dada art movement in theater. (And here we thought "Dada" was just a line in a song by The Police.) Ubu passed away in 1984 but lives on as the logo for UBU Productions, founded by Gary.

Now, that's some useful trivia for holiday cocktail parties this year!

Sylvester Stallone Sold Pet Dog To Make 'Rocky'

2006-11-29T08:32:00.000-08:00

This is one of the saddest Hollywood stories EVER! Sylvester Stallone was so broke when he was trying to get a studio to make the first "Rocky" movie, that he was forced to sell his pet dog! He only had $106 to his name as he was shopping his film around Hollywood.

He recalls, "I had to sell my dog outside a 7-Eleven."

We were going to make fun of the fact Rocky was coming back to the screen, but now we are unable to do so.

You can read more at Starpulse.com.

San Fran Macy's helping pets this Christmas

2006-11-26T08:19:00.000-08:00

If you're in San Francisco and are a pet lover (and who isn't?), be sure to pay a visit to Macy's this holiday season (170 O'Farrell St.) The upscale retailer is working with the SPCA for the third year in row to showcase animals available for adoption.

Macy's has windows dedicated to Hollywood and pets, including a "It's a Wonderful Nine Lives" and appearances by Marilyn Meow and Carey Cat (aka Marilyn Monroe and Cary Grant). (Yeah, we thought that was a bit of a stretch, too.)

Pets will be available for adoption from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. until Dec. 26.

Check out more info about Macy's and holiday shopping in SF on ContraCostaTimes.com.

Pamela Anderson has Mother-in-Law Problems

2006-11-21T19:03:00.000-08:00

Gee, and you'd expect Kid Rock's mother to be classier, wouldn't you?

PETA-supporting, animal-loving Pamela Anderson is irate, and who can blame her? At her July 29th wedding to Kid Rock ("I now pronounce you rock and wife"), Pam's new mother-in-law wore fur! In July!

We think Pam should kick her mother-in-law to the curb until she amends her fur-wearing way!

Also, according to TMZ.com, Pam has lost her her pet Chihuahua, Luca. We'll watch for more news, but we hope the star and her pooch are reunited soon!

You can read more on TMZ.com.

Will Ferrell's dog picks his scripts

2006-11-09T15:37:00.000-08:00

Yeah, we know he's just joking, but we like Will's sense of humor and are anxious to see Stranger Than Fiction, so here is a funny bit from IGN.com:

Will was asked how he select scripts, and apparently his dog has a crucial role. Says Will, "I have my dog look at it -- just kind of sniff it. And if he gives me a look which, sometimes I don't know if he's giving me the look or he's just hungry, I have to decipher that, then I'll read it."

It seems Will's pooch sniffed out a winner, because Rotten Tomatoes has his new film rated at 73% (as of tonight). Good dog! Good doggie!

A link you'll like

2006-11-05T21:22:00.000-08:00

We'll admit it--we've been remiss in updating our blog as of late. Lots of doggie and kitty things going on in our lives right now, so hopefully we'll be able to return to posting interesting celebrity news again shortly.

In the meanting, we're sure you'll love this blog: http://www.celebritydogwatcher.com. Lots and lots of interesting Hollywood canine photos and news!

Karen Black is (Not) Scary for Animals

2006-10-21T09:59:00.000-07:00

You've seen in her House of 1000 Corpses. You screamed with her in Children of the Corn IV: The Gathering. You shuttered with her in Burnt Offerings. And you hid your eyes from Zapped Again! (not because it was scary, but because it was just too bad too watch.) Yes, we're talking about actress Karen Black, who turns out not to be that scary after all, especially when it comes to caring about animals.

In a new PETA ad released just in time for Halloween, Karen reclines against a tombstone bearing the inscription “I Wouldn’t Be Caught Dead in Fur.” You can see the ad, listen to Karen speak more about her disdain for fur, and download an enormous print-ready version of the ad at http://www.furisdead.com/feat-KarenBlack.asp?int=peta_newsfeed.

Maria Menounos & Christina Milian loves "Small Dogs in Big Ways"

2006-10-17T18:33:00.000-07:00

Some Hollywood event occured that celebrated "Small Dogs in Big Ways." Unfortunately, we cannot find out a thing about the event, other than that lovely young celebs were in attendance. Here are shots of Maria Menounos & Christina Milian from Hollywood Tuna and Popbytes.

INXS' J.D. Fortune Wants You to Switch to Vegetarianism

2006-10-15T18:17:00.000-07:00

If you're a fan of Rock Star: INXS, you know J.D. Fortune. He totally rocked the house and won a ticket to join the band INXS in 2005.

Now, the rock star wants you to kick the meat habit. In his new public service announcement (PSA) for PETA, longtime vegetarian J.D. sings the praises of animals, encouraging people to "Love 'Em, Don't Eat 'Em."

J.D. says, "Being part of a band takes a lot of energy. That's one reason I became a vegetarian. I feel better physically, I've got a lot more energy, and I feel better emotionally, knowing that I'm not contributing to the suffering of animals worldwide."

If you care to learn more, see the PSA, or want to enter to score a signed T-Shirt, visit GoVeg.com.

The Anti-Dog Whisperer

2006-10-10T18:07:00.000-07:00

Here's a guy who isn't famous for training dogs (a la Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan), but he should be! Dr. Ian Dunbar wrote six books on dog training that set the standard all of us probably use with our own pups--yet he's living in happy anonymity in the Bay Area.

And, as you might expect, he takes dog training very serious: "Without training, the life of a puppy is predictable: chewing, soiling the house, digging up the garden, followed by a trip to the shelter where, if it's lucky, it gets another try. Without training, that dog will be dead in less than a year."

Dunbar also has some tempered criticism for the Dog Whisperer, and when a guy with this kind of experience speaks, it's worth listening; Dunbar has a veterinary degree and Special Honors in physiology and biochemistry from the Royal Veterinary College of London University and a doctorate in animal behavior from the psychology department of UC Berkeley!

Mr. Whisperer (a/k/a Cesar Millan) is beginning to fall out of favor with the nation's trainers. Millan subscribes loosely to the idea of the pack, a dogs-as-wolves theory that had long ago fallen out of favor with many trainers. "He has nice dog skills, but from a scientific point of view, what he says is, well ... different," says Dunbar. "Heaven forbid if anyone else tries his methods, because a lot of what he does is not without danger."

If you care to read more about Dunbar and his approach to dog training, check out the very informative article on SFGate.com.

Be Hilary Duff & Lola

2006-10-05T19:59:00.000-07:00

Pretty soon, you can be Hilary Duff or her dog Lola. No, we're not talking about some nirvana-like state of celebrity self achievement--we're talking video games!

On October 17, Electronic Arts will release The Sims 2™ Pets video game, featuring Duff and her pet Chihuahua, Lola. Players can step into the shoes of one of Hollywood’s hottest young stars: They interact with Lola and Hilary as they can with any other pet or Sim.

“I’ve logged hundreds of hours playing The Sims games, so I jumped at the chance to be in The Sims 2 Pets,” said Sims aficionado Hilary. (Actually, we seriously doubt she said that. Probably some PR person said that, but let's act as if Hilary actually cared enough to say those words!)

“Although she’s trying not to let it go to her head, Lola is very excited to make her cameo in The Sims 2 Pets next month!” also said the PR person impersonating Hilary.

Some day, we must find a PR person who speaks for us, thus lifting that heavy burden of having to inhale, exhale, and string sentences together.

If you want to experience your own virtual Hilary and Lola, watch for the game to be released for Sony PlayStation2, the Nintendo GameCube, and as a PC expansion pack to the original PC game, The Sims 2. A Nintendo DS version of the game will follow in November.

Learn more on Playfuls.com.

Jorge Garcia protects his tiny pooch from The Others

2006-10-03T21:20:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh--the wait is over! Tomorrow begins the new season of LOST! We cannot wait to see what happens to Jack, Kate, Sawyer, Sayid, Michael, Walt, and the rest of the Lost crew.

One thing you won't see on lost is Jorge Garcia's tiny pooch. But while Hurley won't be showing off his dog on the show, you can see Jorge's real-live dog right here on our blog!

The actor was spotted with his pint-sized pooch on Saturday strolling near his home in Honolulu, Hawaii. His pup was dressed to the nines, sporting a pink jacket and matching leash!

You can read more on TMZ.com.

Arnold Schwarzenegger helps dogs

2006-09-27T08:36:00.000-07:00

The governator came to the rescue of dogs when he signed a bill that will help make California a safer place for dogs and the public. Amid growing concern among pet lovers for the practice of tethering, Senate Bill 1578 has been signed by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and will become law.

Tethering an animal for long periods can be cruel because it deprives dogs of proper socialization and often leaves them unable to reach whatever food, water, and shelter they've been provided. The dogs grow aggressively protective of their tiny spaces and often attack children and other people who come near them.

SB1578 will prohibit a person from tethering, fastening, chaining, tying, or restraining a dog to a doghouse, tree, fence, or any other stationary object for longer than three hours in any 24-hour period.

It's good to see Arnold going to bat for California's animals. And if you agree, HelpingAnimals.com would like to thank the Governor with a letter. You'll find his address at http://www.helpinganimals.com/f-schwarzenegger.asp?c=weekly_enews.

Do dogs kiss better than Cameron Diaz and Britney Spears?

2006-09-17T21:07:00.000-07:00

Maybe we're old fashioned, but we don't think a gentleman should kiss and tell. But, I suppose a dog isn't likely to be offended when someone dishes what a good kisser he is.

In GQ Magazine, Justin Timberlake says the best kiss he ever got was from his Boxer, Buckley. And this is from a guy who's been with Cameron Diaz, Janet Jackson, Alyssa Milano, and Britney Spears!

Justin revealed how much he is devoted to his two dogs, Buckley and Brennen, when he said "I have my two dogs for kids."

If you see Justin walking his pooches, find out which one is Buckley and plant a big wet kiss on the dog to see if Justin is telling the truth. Says the star: "When he (Buckley) kisses you it's like a shower over your face."

You know, we never heard that kissing Alyssa Milano was like a shower over your face, so maybe Justin has a point. You can read more on K9Magazine.com.

Barbara Walters dog loves her

2006-09-13T16:37:00.000-07:00

Some people are saying she's lost it, but people should just back off! We believe Barbara Walters when she says her dog spoke to her and said, "I love you."

Barbara says she told her Havanese dog, Cha-Cha, that she loved the pooch, and then her dog responded. In English.

Okay, so it sounds odd, but this is hardly unheard of! Just check out the talking dogs on YouTube (or the talking cats, for that matter).

Rosie O'Donnell joked that Walters was going to pull a Tom Cruise and jump on the couch screaming "I love Cha-Cha! I love Cha-Cha!"

Barbara has a witness and will produce the woman who heard Cha-Cha say "I love you." Barbara, if you're reading this, just know that we believe you with or without your witness!

Check out FoxNews.com for more info.

Claudia Schiffer's dogs not nice

2006-09-10T08:28:00.000-07:00

If you see Claudia Schiffer walking her dogs, you may want to head the other way (after asking for her autograph, of course.) FemaleFirst reports that Claudia is reportedly facing a police interview over accusations her pet dogs are terrifying residents near her mansion in Suffolk, England.

The model's two dogs-- Oscar the German shepherd and Roxy the Irish wolfhound--have allegedly been "barking aggressively at neighbours and terrorising postmen relentlessly." (Silly us, we thought terrorising postal workers was in a dog's job description!) The British postal service has even included Schiffer's mansion on their list of potentially dangerous residences.

All joking aside, Claudia needs the Dog Whisperer or some muzzles, because she had to pay for surgery on a poor Jack Russell that was attacked by Roxy last year.

Read more on FemaleFirst.

Jessica Biel looks like anyone else with her pooches

2006-09-08T09:48:00.000-07:00

Jessica Biel is just so darn lovely (and talented too--have you seen The Illusionist yet?) that it's hard to imagine her fading into a crowd. But if you saw the young woman pictured at right, you might not look twice.

We respect celebs who don't need to get glammed up to walk the pooches, don't you?

Check out more photos of Jeiica and her two dogs on X17Online.com.

Paris Hilton avoids rabies

2006-09-06T21:57:00.000-07:00

We told you a couple weeks ago about how Paris Hilton was reportedly bitten by ber pet Kinkajou. We actually had some doubts about the report, which sounded like someone having some fun planting a story at Paris' expense.

Well, it seems the story is true. Paris was seen sporting a new fashion statement around town--a bandage to cover the spot where she received a rabies shot!

So, if you have a pet kinkajou (and we're sure many of you do), let this serve as a warning to you!

You can see more shots on X17Online.com.

Nicole Richie gets a cat

2006-09-02T10:46:00.000-07:00

Nicole and Paris may not be speaking these days, but they still think alike. Both were seen shopping in pet stores recently.

Nicole must've picked out a new kitty, because she was seen exiting with one of those happy-meal-like cardboard carriers. (Wouldn't you expect a well-off pet lover such as Nicole to come prepared with her own Gucci carrier or pet stroller, or to buy one at the store? It just seems so, um, crass for her to be seen carrying an emormous colorful cardboad box, don't you think?)

We hope that Nicole and her new cat companion are enjoying their new relationship.

You can see more on X17Online.

Our blog sponsor--JustPetStrollers.com--at the Emmy's and on NBC!

2006-08-31T19:43:00.000-07:00

Our blog sponsor, JustPetStrollers.com, is going Hollywood! Their pet strollers were seen in the EXTRA Awards Lounge at the Emmy's, appeared in a national magazine in September, and will appear on a hit NBC sitcom in September! When Hollywood is looking for pet strollers, they call on JustPetStrollers.com!

Just Pet Strollers provided a Happy Trails Pet Stroller to the 2006 EXTRA Awards Lounge in Celebration of the Emmy's, and several Hollywood celebs quickly ordered one for their pets! Star guests to the EXTRA suite included Jeri Ryan, Ming Na, Jai Rodriquez, Maggie Grace, Tia Carrere, and Kathy Griffith (who apparently is not on the "D List" if she can get into the gift suite at the Emmy's!)

If you want to feel like a Hollywood celeb and have a wallet to match, you can bid on the same Dog Bag that the stars perused, and it's all for charity! You have to act quick, because the auction (currently at $9500) is over in seven days! (Of course, if you're like us, you can just head over to JustPetStrollers.com and pick up the same pet stroller for just $90 including shipping!)

In addition, Just Pet Strollers had two strollers included in the September/October edition of "Cooking with Paula Deen" magazine. The article "Pet Parade" featured two big photos of a Kittywalk Pet Stroller and the Happy Trails Plus.

And, while we can't give you details, watch your favorite sitcom in September and you may see a Kittywalk Pink SUV Pet stroller featured! A show staffer called and ordered one to appear in the show, so we'll be watching (but we have to keep the show secret for now.)

Jessica Alba stands out just walking her dog

2006-08-28T15:34:00.000-07:00

No one walks a dog quite like Jessica Alba. And by that, we mean that we could dress up in pink sweat pants and a bare-midriff tank, but no one would want to see it.

Maybe the paparazzi make her unhappy, but shouldn't someone spending quality time with their pooch look happier than Jessica does? Check out additional photos on X17Online.com.

Paris Hilton shops at Petco?!?!?

2006-08-24T15:41:00.000-07:00

We don't have a lot of bucks, but we love to shop at pet boutiques, don't you? You find the best service and most unusual things at pet boutiques, and we'd assume that someone with a trillion bucks such as--hypothetically--Paris Hilton might not be caught dead inside one of those dreadful "big box" pet stores.

Well, apparently we'd be wrong, because X17Online has photos of Paris shopping the bright aisles of a Petco. Of course, she looks terribly out of place there! Check out the photos, and you'll also see some shots of Paris showing her love for her pet ferret.

Paris Hilton Seeks America’s Cutest Pup

2006-08-22T19:34:00.000-07:00

According to The Sun, America's favorite heiress-actress-singer-party girl is about to launch a new pet-themed reality TV show called "America's Cutest Pup."

Paris will, "oversee owners as they parade their precious puppies for US viewers to vote on."

We're not sure what we think of this news. On the one hand, we're all for cute dogs getting their 15 minutes of fame. On the other hand, we're not sure dogs should be paraded around like beauty contestants. Did you see "Little Miss Sunshine?" That world is already sufficiently dog-eat-dog without, well, real dogs! And besides, what fun will it be seeing Paris give the award to Tinkerbell each week?

Keep an eye peeled for details, because the article claims auditions are being held across the US next month.

You'll find more details at http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2-2006380140,00.html.

Britney Spears To Be Buried With Dog

2006-08-22T19:19:00.000-07:00

The world heaps a lot of disdain on poor K-Fed, and now his wife is jumping on the bandwagon. Britney has announced to the world that she wants to be buried with the thing she loves the most: her dog.

Actually, who can blame her? Lucky is more loyal, much more cute, and a hell of a lot more lovable than Kevin Federline. And Lucky has the good sense not to record an embarrassing CD, which demonstrates more self-awareness than we've yet seen from K-Fed.

After introducing her rapper husband at last weekend's Teen Choice Awards, Britney went on to compare herself to the Pharaoh's (who, last we heard, did not considering themselves "country" in the same way Britney perceives herself).

Said the once-bankable-now-banal pop starlet: "You know how the Pharaohs used to get buried with things they loved? I want to do that with Lucky. She should be laid to rest with me when the time comes."

Since dogs sadly do not live as long as humans, it seems Lucky will be buried with Britney's career long before Britney herself is laid to rest.

You may read more on EntertainmentWise.com.

Obituary: Detective Fred

2006-08-12T10:14:00.000-07:00

Very sad news out of New York where Detective Fred, the famed undercover feline cop who exposed an unlicensed vet, was killed when he ran into traffic.

Fred become a media star for going after the unlicensed veterinarian who performed surgeries on cats and dogs. Fred had been volunteered for service by his owner, Assistant Brooklyn District Attorney Carol Moran.

Fred was killed when he dashed out a door as Moran took out her two dogs.

"Fred was a shooting star, he burned fast and bright and passed quickly," Moran said yesterday with great sadness. "He was my baby."

Moran added, "I feel like we've let everybody down."

We hope she won't be too hard on herself. Accidents do happen, even to the most caring pet owners and their pet companions. She and Fred were brave and made the world a better place, and no one who does that lets anybody down!

You can read more on the New York Daily News site.

Paris Hilton Bitten by Pet Kinkajou

2006-08-12T10:05:00.000-07:00

There are reports that Paris Hilton went to a hospital to get treatment for a bite she received from her pet Kinkajou. What seems a bit odd about this is that reports from months ago indicated Paris was forced to give up her exotic pet because owning it was against the law in California.

The heiress was not badly hurt but did visit a hospital emergency room to receive a tetanus shot, her publicist Elliot Mintz, told The Associated Press on Friday.

Supposedly Paris was goofing around with her pet when "Baby Luv" got a little over-excited and nipped at Paris. The incident happened at 3 AM, and we're sure Paris wasn't the least bit altered at the time the accident occurred.

Said Paris' publicist: "I don't view kinkajous as aggressive animals. The same kind of thing could have occurred with a German Shepherd."

Personally, we suspect Nicole Richie secretly replaced Baby Luv with a radio-controlled Kinkajou impostor, but we have no evidence.

Learn more on SFGate.com.

Is the USDA protecting or harming Ernest Hemingway's famed six-toed cats?

2006-08-07T11:41:00.000-07:00

Have you ever visited Key West? If not, you really should! It's a lovely, arty, casual place to visit that has a personality that is completely unique. (In this day where big box stores and fast food restaurants make every city look like every other, it's refreshing to find a place that still has its own personality!)

One of Key West's top attractions is the Ernest Hemingway Home. Here you will find the residence where one of the 20th Century's greatest authors lived, wrote, and found inspiration. You will also find 50 six-toed cats, all descendants of a cat the novelist received as a gift in 1935. And that's why the USDA is stepping in.

The USDA is claiming that the Ernest Hemingway Home is an "exhibitor" of cats and needs to have a USDA Animal Welfare License. This would put the home in the same category as zoos and circuses and would likely mean the home would have to cage (or give away) the famous animals.

Although USDA inspectors who have repeatedly visited the property since 2003 have never indicated any concerns about the welfare of the cats, they claim a 6-foot-high, brick-and-mortar fence Hemingway built around the property in 1937 does not sufficiently contain the 53 felines. The historic home is asking a judge to step in to get the USDA to back off.

Now, normally we fall squarely on the side of any agency or organization that wants the best for animals, but in this case we have to ask if this is really in the best interest of the cats. Admittedly, we don't want people randomly taking in 50 cats and letting them roam freely, but if you visit the Ernest Hemingway Home, you'll understand these cats are in their natural habitat. Part of the fun of the visit is to see these cats living as their ancestors have for generations. They are clearly very well cared for and happy with their lives! You might find a cat lounging on the same bed that Hemingway slept in or find one asleep in a flower bed under the shade of a tree.

Most importantly, the tourist site complies with city and county ordinances and really does care for the cats. Just check out the page on their site dedicated to the animals! The photo at right is from their site and is of Show Shoes and Mark Twain. Their site also contains pix of many of the other cats for which they care, including Emily Dickinson, Charlie Chaplin, Audrey Hepburn, Ragamuffin, and Spencer Tracy.

While we respect the USDA for its intentions, we have to ask if this is really the best use of their time and energy. Throughout the country are places where animals are mistreated, and the Ernest Hemingway Home is clearly not one of those places.

So, we hope the USDA folks will come for a visit, check out how much care these animals receive, and then maybe get into the vibe of Key West with a boat drink as the sun sets. We wish the Hemingway Home well in their efforts to allow their cats to act as a living exhibit to the way in which Hemingway lived with his own special, multi-toed cat!

You can read more on CNN. com or visit Ernest Hemingway Home Web site.

Broadway Barks with Bernadette Peters

2006-08-06T10:47:00.000-07:00

Bernadette Peters is a national treasure. She should be her own National Park, or perhaps her name should be added to the Star Spangled Banner--we don't know how Bernadette should be honored but we know she should, so we'll leave that the Congress.

Bernadette is lovely, amazingly talented, funny, and not only loves pets but dedicates herself to improving the plight of homeless animals. She humbles us with her boundless energy. She is a founding member of Broadway Barks and recently hosted a star-studded adopt-a-thon in NYC's Shubert Alley.

The event was a huge success and included the likes of Lucie Arnaz ("Dirty Rotten Scoundrels"), Maxwell Caulfield ("Tryst"), Michael Cerveris ("Sweeney Todd"), Victoria Clark ("The Light in the Piazza"), Georgia Engel and Bob Martin ("The Drowsy Chaperone"), Eden Espinosa, David Garrison, and Carol Kane ("Wicked"), Shuler Hensley ("Tarzan"), and Christian Hoff, Daniel Reichard, J. Robert Spencer, and John Lloyd Young ("Jersey Boys"). The event also featured an auction of celebrity-autographed memorabilia.

You can learn more on CBSNews.com or visit Broadway Barks for more info.

BTW, as we researched this news item, we ran across an interesting article on Sun-Sentinel.com about a trio of teens who dedicate themselves to performing Broadway tunes. If you happen to know or see Shayne Leighton, give her an enormous hug for us! She said, "I want to be the next Bernadette Peters." Any teen with the taste and wisdom to utter these words in an era of Britney, Jessica, and Avril deserves all the praise that can possibly be heaped upon her young shoulders.

It's a bit sad but a lot heartwarming that the three teens are performing for audiences of 70-, 80- and 90-somethings and are receiving standing ovations. (Trust us, when you get standing ovation from 90-somethings that's really saying something!)

We certainly hope Shayne can succeed in her goal, and when she does, we hope she has as big a heart as Bernadette!

2006-08-06T03:20:00.000-07:00

Here is a lovely shot of the lovely Rachel Harris as she arrives at the Much Love Animal Rescue celebrity fundraiser in Malibu, CA.

The event was Bow Wow Ciao:A Midsummer Dog’s Dream
Honoring Tori Spelling and Pam Grier. It was held at the estate of John Paul & Eloise DeJoria, described as "one of the most spectacular homes in Malibu." John Paul is THE John Paul, of salon and pet grooming products fame. (Our invitation must've been lost in the mail!)

You can see more on Yahoo News or learn more about Much Love.

Bad Doggie! Guard Dog Destroys Elvis' Teddy Bear

2006-08-04T11:29:00.000-07:00

Now here's a dog that deserves a serious "time out!" (We love all pets, but sometimes even the best of them need a little discipline.) (Just like children and spouses!)

A Doberman pinscher named Barney went berserk and destroyed the very display he was supposed to guard. A children's museum near Wells, England had a display of teddy bears including Mabel, the toy once cuddled by a young Elvis Presley.

Alas, Mabel was one of the victims of the dog's attack. Barney chewed up bears worth nearly a million bucks.

Barney's owner, who donated Mabel to the museum for display, was reportedly, "not very pleased at all." (How surprising!)

While we are sad to see Barney's deeds result in this kind of destruction, it appears Barney will be treated with appropriate care. But, we trust, he won't be doing any more guard duty any time soon.

Read more on WTOL.com and see more photos of Barney and Mabel here.

Hilary Duff and her pooch

2006-07-27T21:32:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows that Hilary Duff is wild about her dog. That's why we're not very happy with HolywoodTuna.com. While sharing some pictures of cute-as-a-button Hilary and her almost-as-cute dog, Lola, HollywoodTuna went out of their way to be just plain mean to the lovely star for carrying around her beloved pet.

We're here to tell you that Hilary and Lola don't deserve that kind of treatment! Go ahead and mock Tara, Nicole, Paris, and the rest of their ilk, but keep your insults to yourself when it comes to Hilary. The world could us a few more young women with class, if you ask us. (We think HollywoodTuna is just angry they never get to post paparazzi shots of Hilary stumbling drunk out of a bar like the rest of the Hollywood set.)

Anyway, you can see more shots of Hilary and Lola, but ignore all the nasty text.

Nicole Richie loves Mischa Barton's dog

2006-07-23T14:21:00.000-07:00

Well of course Nicole Richie loves Mischa Barton's dog--just look at how cute Ziggy is! We're a wee bit surprised Nicole hangs out with such a cute pooch since she doesn't seem to enjoy sharing the limelight too much.

Anyway, this picture of Nicole and Mischa's dog comes from Celebitchy.com. You'll find other shots of Nicole, Mischa, and Cisco Adler, Mischa's main squeeze and Whitestarr bandmember, hanging on the beach here.

LA rejects 'Hooters For Neuters', Barbi Twins appeal

2006-07-21T15:43:00.000-07:00

Those of you who live outside of Los Angeles think of it as a modern day Gomorrah where underage teen pop tarts party openly in nightclubs and stars hop in and out of marriage quicker then the rest of us change cars. And why shouldn't you think that since it is, after all, true. But even in LA, a program with the name 'Hooters For Neuters' just won't fly.

Just ask the Barbi Twins. The Playboy covergirls-turned-animal rights activists appealed to the city to reverse its decision to refuse funds from a bikini contest that were intended to benefit the Animal Services Department. They said the need to reduce the number of euthanized animals should outweigh sensitivity over an event hosted by Hooters restaurant.

We tend to agree with the buxom models. After all, doesn't the city collect taxes from adult bookstores, nightclubs, and even Hooters restaurants within the city limits? Why is it all right for them to collect taxes from businesses like these and then refuse money intended for pets? I think we should start an impeachment drive--who wants to sign our petition?

You might ask why someone thought a bikini contest was a good idea for a pet fundraiser in the first place. Well, the Barbi twins may not look like the sharpest tools in the shed, but they have an answer for this question: The twins said men are historically less likely to have their pets spayed or neutered, so a bikini contest is the ideal way to spread the message.

The twins did a radio commercial aimed at male pet owners, using the kicker, "The Barbi Twins feel real men fix their pets." The pair also said they took part in a fund-raising calendar photo shoot with shelter pets, founded an animal-rights Web site -- www.thekittyliberationfront.com -- and were working to create an animal-rescue reality show.

You can read more on NBC4.tv.

Penelope Cruz takes dog to vet

2006-07-16T22:23:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we're just amazed that paparazzi will take photos of celebs doing the dullest things. And then we post those images and link to celebrity blogs, just so you can see celebs doing the dullest things.

But really, when it comes to a celeb and his or her dog, is there really such thing as a dull activity? We think not! So here, for your viewing pleasure, is a photo of the gorgeous Penelope Cruz taking her dog to the vet.

You can see more photos at socialitelife.com.

Vladimir Putin is a softy at heart

2006-07-16T22:10:00.000-07:00

Okay, so Vladimir Putin has rolled back a few civil rights, cracked down on the media, and jailed an opponent or two. Hey can't be that bad--he has a dog! And we all know dog lovers are big softies, right?

Heck, Putin even takes his dog to to work with him. Check out the photos of the Russian President, his dog, and luminaries such as Tony Blair and Silvio Berlusconi.

The dog, Koni, frequently sits in on Putin's meetings with foreign heads of state. Maybe Russian reporters are hoping for a few inside scoops from Koni, because Putin had to demand that the media folk stop slipping him treats all the time!

You can check out more photos of Mr. Putin--some with Koni--on Yahoo news.

Celebrity Dogs: Book of Celebrity Pet Portraits

2006-07-16T21:41:00.000-07:00

PopPhoto.com has an article about a new book filled with intimate photo portraits--not of celebs, but of their pets!

And if you visit their site, you can take a little quiz to see if you can match the canine poser to his or her celebrity companion. For example, is Bob (pictured below) the dog of:

A) Naomi Watts
B) Lily Tomlin
C) Renee Zellweger
D) Kate Hudson

We're not telling, you'll just have to visit PopPhoto.com where you can learn more about the book that features dogs owned by Ross Bleckner, Kate Bosworth, Kelly Klein, Orlando Bloom, Sigourney Weaver, Selma Hayek, and Naomi Watts, and others.

Jessica Biel beaches with her pooches

2006-07-16T21:36:00.000-07:00

This is nothing but a shameless excuse to show a picture of the lovely Jessica Biel playing with her pooches on the beach. So sue us!

To enjoy more pix of Jessica on the beach, you can visit Hollywood Tuna.

Kylie Minogue takes dog to Paris Fashion Week

2006-07-10T19:37:00.000-07:00

First things first: We love Kylie Minogue's style and her music. Try getting Can't Get You Out Of My Head out of your head after one listen. Go ahead, I dare you!

As you may know, the pop star has been out of circulation for some time as she faces a breast cancer scare. After months of treatment, Kylie has begun appearing at events, and might we say that she looks marvelous!

Her date for one high-profile event was a dog! Her partner, Olivier Martinez, couldn't make it to Paris Fashion Week, so Kylie stepped out with his Rhodesian ridgeback dog Sheba. She was the surprise guest at Karl Lagerfeld's Chanel show.

We're happy to report that she spoke of her "baby steps" back to the recording studio, and she said a new album is in the pipeline.

You can read more about Kylie and her date Sheba at HelloMagazine.com.

Joaquin Phoenix works to help dogs

2006-07-09T19:24:00.000-07:00

Joaquin Phoenix is just so damn cute. And talented. And so intense. In fact, we find him cutest when he is being intense and talented at the same time. And we don't care what the purists say--we think his singing was right on target in Walk the Line, and we can't wait to see him We Own the Night next year!

But we're not here to talk about Joaquin's talent but his commitment to animals. He has teamed up with PETA and written to every top California politician, asking them to support a new bill to make it illegal to attach chains to dogs.

Turns out that chaining a dog isn't merely bad for dogs but for humans, too! The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention has found that chained dogs are nearly three times more likely to attack people than dogs who are not kept chained.

According to PETA, "In 2002, chained dogs killed more children between the ages of 1 and 9 than did falls from playground equipment or trees and fireworks accidents combined, and they killed as many kids as did gun accidents."

You can read more about Joaquin's campaign to ban dog chaining on SFGate.com.

Jennifer Love Hewitt consults "Intuitionist" to help with pet

2006-07-09T19:17:00.000-07:00

What is an "Intuitionist" and how do we get to be one? Seriously, what does this pay? We just have to ask!

It seems everyone's favorite Ghost Whisperer is getting a little alternative help with her pooch. Jennifer Love Hewitt met a mind reader at a party and was amazed with her ability to determine which color schemes calmed or angered her. And now, she's asking for help with her moody pet.

Jennifer says, "She said that my dog is very upset about the construction work in the neighborhood, which I thought was cute."

But that's not all! The Intuitionist also told Jennifer that her dog was missing a particular toy, so she brought out the toy and her pooch hasn't stopped playing with it since.

If you care to read more, check out PRInside.com.

Is Britney Spears banning Kevin's Dog?

2006-07-09T18:51:00.000-07:00

A report from Fametastic claims that Kevin Federline has purchased a pit bull terrier, but Britney has banned it from the house. She's afraid the dog will harm Sean, so Kevin is keeping the pooch at a friend's house.

That's all there is to that particular celeb pet news item, but let's take a moment to provide some advice to Britney and Kevin. Now, we're but simple common folk and not multi-millionaires living in Beverly Hills, but some obvious, common sense advise is offered:

Dear Britney, If you want to stop being bugged by paparazzi, perhaps posing for the cover of yet another magazine isn't the thing to do. Seriously, you cannot bitch about the burden of being famous on national TV and then show up for a cover shoot just days later. It shows a certain... how can we say this... lack of mental reasoning ability. Maybe the time has come to disappear for a while; either that, or stop whining about the cost of being famous!
Dear Kevin and Britney, please purchase some mirrors for that enormous mansion in which you live. You both are facing some tough PR, and we'd suggest that starting to appear like young adults and less like teens with too much money and too little sense might just help. Britney, the next time you go on national TV trying to repair your image, you may want to NOT wear the first thing you find tossed on the floor, and we think a moment to fix your hair is not ill advised. We know, we know--you think you're "country." Well guess what? You're not! You're a multi-millionaire celeb living in Hollywood. Either start acting like it or move back south of the Mason-Dixon line! And Kevin, how can we say this gently? The world hates you. No, seriously, it does. The covers of magazines are actively wishing that your marriage fails and that rapping you did is the most mocked thing we've seen since the runaway bride. So, here's some advice: Start looking like a responsible young man worth millions of dollars and less like a thug. Try tucking your shirt in, or perhaps even wearing one with buttons and a collar. And stand another quarter inch closer to the shaver, okay? Seriously you two, do you ever look in mirrors!?!?

Okay, that had nothing to do with pets. We're sorry, but really is anyone talking any sense to those two?

Well, we hope Kevin's new pooch find some love at whatever home he lands in.

Is Paris bumping Tinkerbell again

2006-07-01T21:03:00.000-07:00

Some months back the buzz was that Paris Hilton had replaced Tinkerbell with another pet because the chihuahua had gotten a bit fat. We were never sure we believed that story--after all, Paris has a private zoo, so she's permitted to be seen with animals other than Tink on occasion.

The LA Times now claims that Paris was cooing over Junebug, the less-than-two-pound Yorkie owned by Jake Dynnis. Jake is known in pet celebrity circles as the designer of canine line Jackrocketwear.

According to the Times, Paris compared Junebug's size to Tinkerbell's when Tink was just a wee pup. And, Paris reportedly collected breeder info from Jake before they parted.

We guess it's tough to be the pooch of a celeb, always having to fight to keep the position of "top dog" in the entourage. While Junebug is cute, we'd remind Paris that old friends are the best. (Good luck, Tink!)

Read more on LATimes.com.

Tori Spelling helps launch new dog line

2006-07-01T20:45:00.000-07:00

Just weeks before the passing of her father, TV mogul Aaron Spelling, Tori was helping to launch a new doggie line of designer clothing. And this isn't just any line, but a line designed by dogs. Yes, that's what is claimed--by dogs.

Zissou and Spike, two chocolate Labs, have launched their own line of doggie duds. The line debuted at the Kate Daniels boutique in Seal Beach, where Tori and her dog Mimi showed up to help present a check of $5,000 to the Best Friends Animal Society. Then, in typical celeb fashion, the boutique was closed for 10 minutes so that Tori and Mimi could enjoy a private shopping adventure.

You can read more about Zissou, Spike, Tori, and Mimi at OCRegister.com.

And our best wishes go out to the Spelling family on the loss of Mr. Spelling, who provided us with so many great TV memories that were trashy in the best sense of the word. We hope the family can find ways to mend their issues (and, if we may be so presumptuous, might we suggest this is best done away from the media.)

Obituary: Moose, who played Eddie on Frasier

2006-06-27T19:24:00.000-07:00

Yeah, we know the human cast was great--Kelsey Grammer, David Hyde Pierce, John Mahoney, Jane Leeves and Peri Gilpin deserved all the awards they received--but we tuned in to Frasier to see Eddie. And now Moose, the pooch with better comedic timing and a greater capacity to hit a mark than Wilmer Valderrama, has passed.

The 16-year-old Jack Russell terrier passed away of old age Thursday at the Los Angeles home of trainer Mathilde Halberg. In addition to being the first dog to portray Eddie, he also appeared the 2000 film My Dog Skip.

Grammer gave a shout out to the talented dog when he accepted a 1994 Emmy for best actor in a comedy. "Most important, Moose, this is for you."

You can read more on Excite news. Hopefully Eddie is enjoying sitting where Frasier doesn't want him in the upscale condo in the sky.

Alison Sweeney searches for lost pooch

2006-06-26T22:25:00.000-07:00

Stars are just like the rest of us--when a pet gets loose and runs away, they'll do anything to find their loved one. Such is the distressing story of "Days of Our Lives" star Alison Sweeney, whose Chihuahua, Paco, is lost.

Paco slipped out the door of Alison's home in the Hollywood Hills. Since then, she and her husband have been seeking their fawn-colored, short-haired Chihuahua. Paco is a 4-year-old male and weighs only 4 pounds, so if you happen to be strolling through Hollywood, keep your eyes open!

Alison has turned to lost dog site Fido Finder to assist in searching for her pooch. Fido Finder is a national lost dog database designed to help the public reunite lost dogs with their owners by utilizing the power and reach of the Internet. The celebrity couple has posted a $1,000 reward on Fido Finder for Paco's safe return.

We wish Paco and Alison the best and hope for a speedy reunion!

The stars have spoken: Old Navy selects finalists

2006-06-25T07:01:00.000-07:00

A couple months ago we told you that Old Navy was looking for a new "spokes dog." They've narrowed the field, and now it's up to you to select the winner!

A panel of celebrity judges are said to have selected the finalists out of a pool of 120,000 entries. Celebs on the panel included Hollywood's hottest (Katherine Heigl, Kristin Chenoweth), most talented (Alfre Woodard, Malcolm David Kelley) and best (Betty White, who has shown how golden she really is by working hard on behalf of animals).

Now, far be it from us to call into question the Old Navy press release, but we just don't see these five sitting around in a room sorting through a 40-foot stack of submissions. Assuming each entry was given five seconds of consideration, it would've taken seven full days--24/7--to get through the entire 120,000 entries. (Now, that's a reality TV show we'd watch!)

But that is beside the point, because now you must choose the winner! From June 23, 2006 through July 7, 2006, the finalists will be featured in more than 950 Old Navy store locations throughout North America. During that time, customers can vote for their favorite pooch online at http://www.oldnavy.com/magic. Each person is eligible to vote once every day during the two-week voting period. In addition, several voters will be randomly selected each day as instant winners to receive a $10 Old Navy appreciation card to be used toward their next purchase.

Here are the finalists:

Bean “The Live Wire,” Emeryville, CA
The smallest of the finalists, what Bean lacks in size she makes up for in energy. Bean has been known to work any room in social situations showing that although she is small in size, she’s big in personality. This California girl is a Norfolk Terrie/Chihuahua mix with a truly unique look. Owners Sherrie and John can’t walk 10 feet in Emeryville without someone stopping to pet this “live wire.”

Cooper “The Athlete,” Plano, TX
The Athlete in the group, Cooper stays active with swimming and hours at the dog park. Like all great athletes, Cooper knows she’s good and isn’t afraid to strut the streets of Plano with her owner Daniel to show off her fit physique. This teenager is a Boxer and Yellow Lab mix who stays cool on hot Texas days by playing in the sprinklers with her siblings.

Data “The Prankster,” Freeland, MI
Data was born to perform. He’s a brilliant goofball who loves to do tricks. Lori rescued the Australian Cattle Dog/Border Collie mix from a shelter, and even though he’s now a full-grown adult, he’s still a kid at heart. His favorite trick is walking backwards on cue and he’s even known to eat his meals off a plate at the dinner table.

Josie “The Sweetheart,” Mesa, AZ
Josie is the perfect pet. Popular around the neighborhood, Josie loves attention and always greets others with overwhelming affection. A border collie mix, she was rescued from the pound and still hasn’t stopped thanking her owner, Heather. Josie never bites off more than she can chew, never barks up the wrong tree, and always shares her treats with others.

Paco “The Free Spirit,” Venice Beach, CA
Paco really knows how to relax and let his hair down. Like most Southern California natives, Paco skateboards and even does yoga! Owners Olivia and Tao rescued the Terrier mix from a shelter and now he’s a regular on the Venice Beach scene. Paco loves belly rubs, long walks, cuddling and letting his long hair blow in the wind.

Sandi “The Bandit,” Bartlett, IL
One look and she’ll steal your heart. Sandi is an adorable puppy that enjoys keeping Joann & Dennis Hadden and their two children very busy playing ball and tug-of-war. Playfully rambunctious, the Shepherd/Collie Mix will wag her way into your heart. Until then, she’s content with being the pride of Bartlett, Illinois and the newest member of the Hadden family.

Hulk Hogan gives back Monkey

2006-06-18T10:53:00.000-07:00

Are any of you watching "Hogan Knows Best" on VH1? We must admit that we aren't. There is only so much faux-reality-disfunctional-family-loving-their-kids TV one can watch in a lifetime, and we're afraid we used up our quota on the Osbournes.

We apparently missed a heartbreaking episode of the show. The Hogans already have a couple of birds and eight dogs, but mom Linda wanted to take in a rescued baby monkey, too. Sounded like a good idea, until the family quickly got tired of baby-sitting the mischievous little monkey. I guess the 15 diaper changes per day might've gotten to be a bit much. So, Hulk put his foot down, and the family returned the monkey to the rescue group.

While we respect the family's decision to return the pet once they realized they were unprepared to provide the proper care, we take the wrestler to task for his attitude about the upheavel their poorly conceived adoption might've caused to the monkey: "Well, don't feel bad. We'll just look at it as, you know, we tried really hard and he had a great vacation. And he got to know the greatest wrestler of all time."

Hey Hulk, how about we kidnap you for a couple of weeks? That way you can have a forced vacation at our house and get to know the greatest blogger of all time! (Funny how the experiences to which we subject our pets take a different meaning if we think about putting ourselves through the same thing, isn't it?)

You can read more on Post-Gazette.com (last item on the page).

Orlando Bloom to pose with pooch

2006-06-18T10:46:00.000-07:00

Okay ladies, you'll want to start clearing a spot on your wall for the Tony La Russa's 2007 Celebrity Pet Calendar, which benefits the Animal Rescue Foundation in Walnut Creek. Why? Orlando Bloom will be posing with his dog!

We have no idea why they didn't simply dedicate all 12 months to Orlando (who will soon be swashbuckling back onto screens in Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest). Instead, some other people will have their photos in the calendar: Charlize Theron, Fran Drescher, and St. Louis Cardinals shortstop David Eckstein will be included in the ARF calendar.

Hmmm, do we want to see one month with Fran Drescher or two months with Orlando Bloom? I'm just asking!

Learn more on CBS5.com.

Jerry Lewis faces surgery with pets at his side

2006-06-18T09:55:00.000-07:00

According to Hollywood.com, Jerry Lewis is to undergo angioplasty in an effort to re-open arteries that were bypassed decades ago. The comedian and philanthropist suffered a heart attack last weekend and is recovering in a San Diego, California hospital.

But he's not alone--he is being comforted by his pet Chihuahuas. Jerry's manager says that Jerry's pooches, Rocky and Paulie, are with him in the hospital. He's also been boosted by the well wishes from friends including Larry King and Deana Martin, the daughter of Lewis' late partner Dean Martin.

Plans to turn his hit movie The Nutty Professor into a new stage musical are still going ahead, and the comic insists he'll be well enough to host his yearly Muscular Dystrophy Association telethon at the end of the summer.

We'd be tempted to make a sarcastic comment about how the rich and famous get to bring their pets with them to the hospital unlike we commoners, but we wish Jerry nothing but the best and are glad his dogs can help bring him comfort and a speedy recovery!

Read more here.

Garfield Sucks

2006-06-18T09:24:00.000-07:00

Okay, we normally don't criticize animals on this blog, but in this case we feel it is warranted--and besides, Garfield is animated and not a real cat.

The new Garfield movie is craptacular, and not in a "so bad it's good" way but in a "so bad that it smells like used kitty litter" way. RottenTomatoes.com has tracked it with a lousy 12% approval rating, making it one of the worst-reviewed flicks of the year.

Now, you might ask why we care so much. After all, we could've just ignored the horrible Garfield's A Tale of Two Kitties and let is slink quickly to video. Well, here's why we care:

First of all, we believe that in some Hollywood office suite occupied by an eight-figure exec, the following words were spoken about 18 to 24 months ago: "Well, sure the first Garfield movie sucked--but animal lovers will buy tickets for any piece of crap with a cat or dog on the screen, so let's make another!" We believe that pet lovers (not to mention pets themselves) are deserving of more effort from Hollywood than this terrible quickie.
Secondly, Garfield is voiced by Bill Murray, and that means Murray fans (if there are any, still) might be tempted to show up. So, here it is Bill Murray fans: Don't do it! You've been forewarned. (And here's a special note to Bill, since we're sure he's a regular visitor to this blog: This is how you chose to invest the buzz you rightly earned from "Lost in Translation"?!? Is there some Oscar about which we are unaware--"Lifetime Achievement Award for Wasting True Talent"?)
Lastly, we believe those responsible for insulting our intelligence deserve to be publicly outed, so here are people and organizations you should curse and may choose to avoid in the future: 20th Century Fox, the inappropriately named Ingenious Film Partners, Director Tim Hill, and Writers Joel Cohen and Alec Sokolow. Heck, this movie is so bad, we're even going to spread some shame to the Key Grip: Michael Alexonis. (Sorry Michael, we're sure you're a talented and hard-working guy based on your numerous credits, but there's so much Garfield blame to spread around!)

Just so we're clear: None of us is going to see, rent, or even think about Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties, right? If so, perhaps the next movie Hollywood offers us with a pet star will be one conceived with quality and art in mind and not just profit.

Heather Graham and her pooch

2006-06-12T20:10:00.000-07:00

We have no idea where this picture came from, and we don't care. It has two of the cutest things in the world--Heather Graham and a dog! Hollywood Tuna has other delightful photos of Ms. Boogie Nights, so click here to see more!

"Where My Dogs At?" cuts Tinkerbell porn scene

2006-06-12T19:53:00.000-07:00

If you have a certain twisted sense of humor, you may want to check out MTV2's new show, "Where My Dogs At?" Demonstrating a strong sense of commitment to this new show, MTV2 has scheduled it at 12:30 p.m.

The animated series follows the antics of Buddy and Woof, two stray pooches lost in Hollywood who are constantly on the run from the dogcatcher. Somehow, the beagle and the bulldog keep finding their way into movie awards shows and celebrity households where all sorts of outrageous comedy ensues.

This show won't be for everyone. Jeffrey Ross, the mind behind the show and voice of one of the animated pooches, has been called the meanest man in comedy. He's already had to cut a scene in which Paris Hilton's dog Tinkerbell makes her own homemade porn movie with 101 dalmatians. (As if the classy Dalmatians would have anything to do with Tinkerbell!)

You can read more on Boston.com.

Fred Willard and Gena Lee Nolin Judge Dancing Pet Stars

2006-06-12T19:20:00.000-07:00

The B&C Web site has nothing but sarcastic things to say about it, and we must be honest and say this sounds like risky viewing, even for dog lovers--this TV show will either be cute and cuddly or an enormous pile of dog poop. Still, despite our doubts, we'll definitely tune in to Animal Planet June 24 at 8 p.m for Dancing Pet Stars. That's right, Dancing With the Stars for the four-legged viewers.

What promises to make the show watchable is the presence of Best in Show star, Fred Willard. He'll be judging (and hopefully making humorous asides a la Buck Laughlin--"Which one of these dogs would you want to have as your wide receiver on your football team?") as will Baywatch star Gena Lee Nolin. (Tough gig--how'd you like to judge a dancing dog show next to Fred Willard?!?)

Read more on broadcastingcable.com.

Mariah Carey walks Jackson P Muttley

2006-06-01T17:46:00.000-07:00

Okay, it's a given that we love Mariah because she loves dogs. That being said, does this girl ever dress down? Really, does this look anything like your dog-walking outfit?!?

Hello Magazine has several pictures of "the curvaceous diva" and her dog, Jackson P Muttley.

In Mariah's penthouse, his favorite toy is a jet--no, not the kind you fly in, but the kind you find in hot tubs. Says Mariah, "If I'm running a bath, all of a sudden I'll hear a splash and Jack will have jumped into the tub... He continually dives under the water and tries to bite the water coming out of the jets."

It's tough to be the dog of an A-lister: A life of hot tubs, penthouses, flying first class--and being walked by woman wearing a dress that shows more curves than a mountain highway. (Sure, we're jealous--so what?)

Read more at hellomagazine.com.

Hilary Duff's dog blog

2006-06-01T05:17:00.000-07:00

And here we thought that having paws might be a hurdle that would prevent dogs from blogging! That's not the case for Hilary Duff's talented dog, Lola--she has her own blog, now.

Funny thing is, if our dog were to blog it would be nothing but "Play with me," "Feed me," "Play with me," "Feed me"--the most boring blog in the world. But, luckily for visitors to HilaryDuff.com, Lola has more to say. For example, the Chihuahua has posted her endorsement of a dog-care book written by the owner of a Maltese pal.

Alas, those of us not in the Hilary Fan Club cannot access Lola's blog; according to MTV.com, her pooch's musings are found in the fan-club-only section of the singer/actress' official site.

Much as we might like to join Hilary's fan club, we're afraid that simultaneously belonging to fan clubs of Hilary Duff and Dame Judi Dench may cause a cosmic incongruity that would threaten life in the universe. Or, maybe we'll just wait for Hilary to do a movie that appeals to someone over the age of 16. (If that sounds a bit catty, we'll point out her last movie was--ugh--Cheaper by the Dozen 2, while meanwhile Lindsay is about to appear opposite Meryl Streep in
A Prairie Home Companion. Come on, Hilary, we know you're better than that!)

Reese Witherspoon walks with Frank Sinatra and daughter Ava

2006-05-30T20:21:00.000-07:00

Reese Witherspoon was seen walking the beaches with Frank Sinatra. That would be her dog, of course. Also along for the walk was 6-year-old future starlet Ava.

This picture comes from JustJared.com where they are much more concerned about whether Reese's loose frock is hiding some news. Will Ava have a new brother or sister soon? We'll leave that to other sites to worry about, so if you want to read more, visit JustJared.com.

Sandra Bullock and Jesse James out for a walk

2006-05-30T20:04:00.000-07:00

No news here. Just a shot of Sandra Bullock and Jesse James out walking their chihuahua. Kind of amazing how absolutely normal they look, isn't it?

Aren't celebs supposed to be under-dressed, over-drunk, and glaring at the paparazzi? Someone tell Sandra to re-read her celebrity contract and stop looking like our next door neighbor!

This photo comes from Gabsmash.com.

Jessica Simpson Almost X-Rayed Her Dog

2006-05-30T19:41:00.000-07:00

People said Jessica Simpson just "played" dumb on her show to add appeal to her TV character, and we tended to believe them. (Come on, Chicken of the Sea? Really?!?!) But, then again, who knows...

Egotastic reports that Jessica was seen trying to get her dog X-rayed at an airport security checkpoint. It seems hard to believe, although there is an incriminating photo.

Then again, maybe someone accused Daisy of being a Weapon of Mass Cuteness. I mean, just look at her!

You can read more here.

Jennifer Aniston cannot live without her dog

2006-05-27T11:02:00.000-07:00

The Philippine Daily Inquirer has an interview with Jennifer Aniston in which she reveals she cannot live without her dog. We couldn't live without our pet, so we know how she feels!

Asked about the four things in life that she can’t live without, number one was her dog. Added to the list was water (always the practical girl, that Jen!), a zone bar, and her health. Then she added friends. Nowhere on the list was Vince Vaughn. We just had to point that out.

Also asked for her four deal-breakers, she said, "Someone who hates dogs."

Could Jen be more perfect? Okay, other than her desire to shake up her image by choosing icky roles in movies like Derailed, could she be more perfect?

You can read more of her interview here.

Paris Hilton's new pooch pad

2006-05-27T10:23:00.000-07:00

The Luxist tells us that Paris Hilton recently went shopping for a new home, and of course her pets were a major consideration in her selection. She chose a modest three-bedroom fixer-upper on a half acre in Lawndale.

Just kidding! Paris reportedly purchased a three-million dollar mansion in the Hollywood Hills, complete with a gated living area for her pets. (Some people live in gated communities--Paris' home has a gated community within its compound!)

According to Britain's Hello magazine, there is a special living area inside the house for her dogs complete with iron gates branded with the family emblem. Inside the gated area, the pampered pooches will reportedly sit on plush pink cushions with the Hilton crest on them and drink from custom-made pink personalised bowls and each has a crown to wear.

If $3 million sounds like a lot for a woman who has House of Wax on her acting resume, don't you worry about Paris. She reportedly makes $20M per year on appearances and another $10M on fragrances and jewelry.

You can read more on Luxist.com and lse.co.uk.

How Lassie and other pet stars make it in Hollywood

2006-05-27T10:11:00.000-07:00

Ran across an interesting article on AZCentral.com that you may find interesting--it's about how pets find their way in Hollywood. Mentioned are (of course) Lassie, but you'll also find some interesting trivia about other notable star pets as well:

Casey, plucked from a litter of average pups, is now Felicity Huffman's co-star on Desperate Housewives.
Tanner, the yellow Lab from Mission: Impossible III, who had "a resume of movie cameos and commercials" before upstaging Tom Cruise in M:I:III. (At least Tanner knows enough not to jump up and down on Oprah's couch!)
Hey Hey, the collie who currently portrays Lassie on the big screen.
Moose, the Jack Russell terrier that played Eddie on Frasier (and his son, Enzo, who later took over the same role.)

You'll also find out what it takes for a four-legged actor to become a star. "Being cute or playing dead in the living room doesn't cut it when you're on location with Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Matt Damon and Julia Roberts, and time is money."

Speaking of money, what does a pet make for a day's work in Hollywood? Unlike human stars, it seems dogs can rake in more bucks on TV than in films: Movie animals are hired at $300 to $450 a day, but an animal appearing frequently in a successful television series might make $10,000 a week. (We were about to get depressed about the fact Moose on Frazier probably made more in a couple seasons than we're likely to see in our lives, remember then we remembered he's cute and can hit a mark better than we can.)

Famke Janssen picks her pet over her agent

2006-05-23T17:45:00.000-07:00

According to a small blurb in the Monterey Herald, the fabulous Famke Janssen wasn't allowed to bring her dog, Licorice, into her agent's offices, so she left rather than take her meeting. This may be more fiction than fact, though--Famke is repped by CAA and the story claims she was trying to visit the William Morris Agency.

You can see Famke in the soon-to-be-huge X-Men: The Last Stand.

You can read the article for yourself on montereyherald.com. Or, enjoy a cute story about how Licorice got a shiny cape custom made by the X2's costume designer.

Knots Landing star now helping animals

2006-05-23T17:33:00.000-07:00

Teri Austin, one-time star of Knots Landing and Maniac Mansion, has dedicated herself to a higher calling: helping animals in L.A.

Teri's in charge of the state's most successful mobile spay-neuter program, which is run by The Amanda Foundation. The program gives free spay-neuter services to pets whose owners can't afford them.

Teri also saves animals from certain death, taking them from our local shelters to be adopted from The Amanda Foundation's No Kill Facility in Beverly Hills. One dog she saved is now roommates with newly unemployed Mischa Barton. (I hope now that she's not among the OC cast that she can still afford dog food!)

"It's not work when you love it, you know, and I do," Teri says.

You can read more about Teri and her work on 13abc.com.