Strong cheeses are banned from this dog's house! Xingu and mother Bella both share an amazing attribute - two noses. The dogs were discovered living the high life in Bolivia, possibly descended from hunting dogs used by the Conquistadors. Not a terribly handsome dog, Xingu's best friend is a wild pig named Gregory. For further reading, please refer to Double-nosed dog not to be sniffed at.
It's a Dog's Life
A security dog performs a noble job, but it can involve a lot of hard work. Luckily for secret service dogs following President Bush's recent tour of India, there were some perks that came with the role. They stayed at top Delhi five star hotels - some costing more than $200 a night!
There is strict protocol that must be following when addressing these dogs. A simple name is not appropriate, they must be addressed by their military rank, ranging from sergeant major to fourth lieutenant. For more information please refer to Secret Service dogs live it up.
Dog Paddle
Hamish the scuba dog may have been an April Fools joke, but dogs are actually strong swimmers. Take Jake, a four year old golden retriever from San Diego. In 2005, he competed in the 1.2 mile Alcatraz Invitational swim and came 72nd out of 500 human competitors. An organiser said, "Whether you are dog or human, it's whatever you can achieve that counts". For more information refer to Dog Beats Most in Swim from Alcatraz.
What are some good names for dogs with an interest in swimming? Scuba Doo, Haddock or Hoki? If you can think of any suitable aquatic names for dogs, please use the Feedback form.
The Big Top
Dogs can be natural performers and showmen who love the thrill of the circus. What would be a good name for a circus pet? Perhaps Puppy Lazarou, or Ronald McDoggy, or Krusty the Cat? If you can think of some cool names please use the Feedback form.
Unfortunately, apart from the odd monkey with showbiz running through his veins, other animals are not so keen on the circus. The sad fact is that animals do not naturally ride bicycles, stand on their heads, balance on balls, or jump through rings of fire. Circuses can be fun, but are best enjoyed by watching trapeze artists, jugglers, clowns and other human performers. For more information about protecting animals in the entertainment industry please visit Circuses.com
Boom Boom!
The most famous fox in the world......Basil Brush. Following the UK ban of fox-hunting in February 2005, thousands of foxes in the countryside have been able to lead peaceful lives. Foxes have even been used for helpful environmental purposes, employed on fruit farms to control pests, but leaving the fruit intact.
Scientists in Siberia have managed to breed tame foxes, so perhaps one day foxes will become common domestic pets! For more information please refer to this news story, Foxes that bark and wag their tails.
Twice the Fun
If you ever stumble upon a two-headed snake, don't run - it could be worth a lot of money. Even better if it's an albino! One was recently put up for auction at US$150,000. Supposedly a two-headed snake is not as dangerous as it seems, because it has trouble deciding in which direction to move!
What would you name a two-headed snake? Slim and Jim? Please use the Feedback form if you have some good ideas. Or you could always check out the Top Ten Twins.
This one's for the Gipper
President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan with Lucky, a Bouvier des Flandres (a breed of sheepdog). Lucky was a puppy when he first lived in the White House. Unfortunately he grew up fast into a large dog and was exiled to the Reagan's ranch in California. For more White House please click through to Presidential Pets.
Any comments about these photos? Please fill put the Feedback form.
Fancy a cool pet tag? Click through to St Francis Pet Tags for the custom engraved pet ID medal tag that any pet would be proud to own!
