There are dozens of rescue groups in the Atlanta area working to deal with the problem of pet overpopulation and homeless animals. We see them and hear about the work that they do, and they do a good job with an overwhelming problem. But these groups can’t do all of it themselves.

Fortunately there are people who take it upon themselves to help out in varying ways. Individuals and informal groups of caring people work on their own to provide care for animals in need, often caring for segments of the pet population that the formal rescue groups cannot help with.

One of these people is Carrie Murtha....

A walk in the woods is, by itself, an enjoyable way to spend some time and get some fresh air and exercise. It can be even more of a pleasure if the hike takes you to an appealing destination, such as one of the many waterfalls that can be found a short distance to the north of us. The mountains of north Georgia contain over 100 waterfalls, some big, some small, with no Niagara but many that are worth seeing. While most require a walk of varying distance, some can be seen from the car, although that is not the best way to view them and it doesn’t provide much exercise.

Lack of money is no longer a valid reason for failing to have a dog or cat spayed or neutered. A growing number of organizations are offering low-cost and even no-cost spay/neuter services to those who cannot afford to pay the full cost of the surgery. Far too many dogs and cats are killed in shelters each year because there are not enough homes for them, and preventing their birth is the most important step in reducing that number.

Atlanta Animal Rescue Friends, Inc. (AARF) recently introduced Casper’s Fund, a new and innovative program to provide free or subsidized spays and neuters to area residents in exchange for volunteer service with AARF.

People from New Jersey have a reputation for being blunt, in your face and unfriendly, a stereotype that is promoted on television and in the movies, and is a source of material for comedians. Many of us with roots in the Garden State get a kick out of it and encourage it, even though we know it is completely untrue – most of the time.

Apparently these characteristics can now be attributed to Jersey house pets as well. In West Milford, on the other side of the mountain from Oakland, where yours truly grew up, lives Jack, a 15 pound orange and white cat with a serious attitude......

It didn’t start with Paris Hilton, or even Zsa Zsa Gabor, but it is a fad that is growing and will probably continue to grow. Owning a mini-dog that you can carry around with you is the in thing to do with more and more people. Yorkies, Maltese, and chihuahuas are among the most popular breeds with the miniature set. Even Puff Diddley owns a Maltese. Usually the dog is carried around in a shoulder bag and is taken wherever the owner goes.

The only problem with this arrangement is that the dog spends a lot of time in a bag. Granted, the bag is made partly of a mesh fabric that allows the dog to see and breath, but it is still in a bag. It seems as if there ought to be a better way. Now, thanks to two girls from New Jersey, there is.