Dog Days of Summer

It is summer time and now is when a lot of families, especially kids, start thinking about getting a dog. Donna Bainter, behavior manager for SPCA Tampa Bay, says there are 5 things to consider before taking a new addition home.

1. Do you want a puppy, adolescent, or an adult dog? This is a very important question to be considered by the family. A puppy is very cute and is a great idea if you have the time to spend training and caring for it. If not maybe an older dog would suit your lifestyle better.

2. Consider your lifestyle, what type of dog would fit in with your family? Are you an active family? If not choose a breed that does not need a lot of exercise. Does anyone in your family have allergies? There are many types of dogs that are a good fit for families with allergies. Make sure you get a dog that fits into your family lifestyle so that the transition is easier.

3. Which Breed? Animal Planet has a good breed selector page to help families find a compatible breed. Choosing a breed by how they look, doesn't mean it will fit in with your family. Research different breeds and select one that will fit right in by their temperament.

4. Rescue dog or Pure Bred? If you are going to a shelter to pick out a dog, make sure you ask why the dog is there. Many shelters will help place dogs that work with your lifestyle. If you have a family, they will help you find a gentle dog that will fit in. Some shelters may help with vet bills and training classes if you adopt a shelter dog. If you are thinking of going to a breeder, make sure you can see the parents of the puppies, this way you will know what shape they are in and also that you are not purchasing from a puppymill.

5. What is the dog's behavior? Choose a dog or puppy that is wagging it's tail and happy to see you, but not too excited that they jump all over you. A shy dog may seem nice and calm, but if they are too shy and cowardly they may bite if they get scared.

Adding a dog to your family is a life changing event, make sure you do your research and find a dog that matches your lifestyle since they will most likely be a part of your family for many years to come.

Dog rescues owner from kangaroo

You hear a lot about dog rescues -- but this is the first time I've ever heard about a dog saving its owners from a kangaroo. In fact, I didn't even know kangaroos were dangerous.

But, according to this report from the BBC News, an Australian woman was saved by her dog after a large kangaroo attacked her and the dog jumped into the mix to save her. Here's a quote from her son: "My dog heard her screaming and bolted down and chased him off. If it wasn't for the dog, she'd probably be dead."