October is Adopt-a-Dog month.  Have you been thinking about getting a dog, but have a certain breed in mind?  One of the biggest misconceptions is that there are no pure-bred dogs in adoption centers.  That is not true at all!

There are rescue organizations that rescue many different dogs.  Some focus solely on pulling dogs that are on ‘death row’.  Some may only take small dogs, others may take large dogs.  Some take seniors, others only puppies.  Some may take special needs dogs- dogs that need medications, blind dogs, deaf dogs.   Many adoption centers rely on contacting rescue groups to take in a certain dog they may have at the shelter.  We need all of these rescues- they play a valuable part in finding dogs new homes!

For just about every breed of dog, there is a rescue for that breed.  These rescues generally take in pure-breeds that have been left at the adoption center for various reasons.  Or perhaps they are contacted by the owner themselves.

One of the advantages in adopting a pure-breed dog through a rescue is that the people in those groups know the pros and cons of the breed.  Of course, we know the saying ‘There are no bad dogs, just bad owners’ but some breeds are just better suited for certain people than others.  For example, it’s probably not the best fit to have a Australian Shepherd live in an apartment with no plan for exercising.

However, a Bichon may work out just fine!  The resources and knowledge of the pure-breed rescue is invaluable.

Speaking of Bichon’s!  My good friend Bev was on the search for a new dog when her long time four-legged companion, Bailey the Bichon, passed away earlier this year.  She knew she would never be able to replace Bailey, but knew it was time to open her doors to a new dog.  Any dog that gets to call Bev’s house their home is one lucky dog.  Bev made the long journey to a Bichon Rescue in Phoenix when word got out that they had a little 3-4 month old male Bichon mix that needed a home.  2 words:  Spoiled.  Rotten.  As all dogs should be.  Read his rescue tale here

There are multiple places that you can find listings of pure-breed rescues in your area.  Call your local adoption center to see if they can recommend someone.  Also try your Veterinarian, dog trainer, groomer, pet sitter or boarding kennel.

For online help, the AKC has a large database of Pure Breed Rescues available at http://www.akc.org/breeds/rescue.cfm.

Here is a look at the new packaging you will start to see for the Eukanuba Puppy formulas!

All of us here at Eukanuba are very excited about the new packaging coming soon!  One of the biggest dog photo shoots in P&G history took place to get fabulous pictures for our bags.  You asked and we listened to what you wanted.  Here is just a taste of what is to come:

• Significantly improved look to our packaging
• We are changing the way we set up the packaging in stores to make it easier for you to find the food you need for your four-legged friend!
• We have pictures of the kibble on all the bags now- you asked and we listened!

You will start to see the new packaging after August 2010.  Stay tuned for more information on the packaging changes!