Pet Briefs

Spay, neuter set for bully breeds

Owners of bully breed dogs in the Charleston area can to take advantage of a new program offering $20 spay/neuter surgeries for Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, American Bulldogs, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and bully breed mixes.

One in every four dogs dying in shelters is a bully breed or bully breed mix. Humane Net and the ASPCA, in conjunction with Pet Helpers and the Charleston Animal Society, are offering specially priced spay/neuter surgeries for these particularly at-risk canines.

Humane Net is a coalition of local animal welfare agencies that promotes spay and neuter to the community as a means of controlling pet overpopulation. The offer is limited to the first 100 dogs.

Call Pet Helpers at 302-0556 or Charleston Animal Society at 556-7729.

Drivers admit to having dog in lap

Millions of Americans recognize that dogs are wonderful companions and bring their favorite furry friend along on road trips, day trips and even day-to-day errands.

In a vehicle, however, this can mean added distractions for the driver.

A recent survey conducted by AAA and Kurgo asked dog owners how often they drive with their dog and about their habits behind the wheel.

The survey found that drivers not only love to bring Fido along, but they also engage in risky behaviors when man's best friend is riding along.

Thirty-one percent of respondents admit to being distracted by their dog while driving, however 59 percent have participated in at least one distracting behavior while driving with their dog.

More than half (55 percent) have pet their dog while driving, and one in five allowed their dog to sit in their lap (21 percent).

Other distracting behaviors drivers admitted to include giving food and water to their dog (seven percent) and playing with their dog (five percent).

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that looking away from the road for only two seconds doubles your risk of being in a crash.

Only 17 percent use any form of pet restraint system when driving with their dog.

Pet owners who want to take their pet on a longer trip can find all of the information they need to make their vacation easier and safer in "Traveling With Your Pet: The AAA Petbook," which includes pet-friendly property listings and advice on transporting pets.

Compiled by Brenda Rindge. Send items to pets@postandcourier.com.