New Drug Available for Fat Dogs (First Coast News)
JACKSONVILLE, FL — There are a lot of fat dogs out there. Some vets estimate 47-percent of their canine patients are overweight or obese. Now, for the first time, a prescription drug is available to help. It’s called Slentrol. The maker of the drug is Pfizer.

Beware pitfalls (and pit bulls) of off-the-leash parks for dogs (Pocono Record)
Editor’s note: Gina Spadafori is on vacation. The column ran originally in March 2005. A new Pet Connection will appear next Sunday. One of the best things to happen to dogs and those who love them is the growth in popularity of off-leash recreation areas nationwide.

On patrol in Estates for stray and dangerous dogs (Naples Daily News)
Domestic Animal Services takes in thousands of dogs, cats and other animals each year, many of which are strays. Some say the agency isn t doing enough to curb the problem of stray animals running loose throughout Collier County, while others say animal control officers like Morris are doing the best they can with what they have.

All work is dogs’ play (The Cincinnati Enquirer)
In the canine world, working dogs are quite possibly the perfect employees. They’re happiest on the job.

Rats are ‘like small dogs,’ owner says (New Orleans Times-Picayune)
SAGINAW, Mich. — For pet seekers looking to stray from the traditional choices of cats and dogs, a fancy rat may fit just right, says the owner of the North American Rat Registry.

Cop dogs sniff out new test (icWales)
POLICE want YOU to let their sniffer dogs cause a stink at your place.