Yo, Philly in the News

• We've got a couple of dog-related stories for you today. First of all, as you may have heard, an unlicensed kennel was shut down in Lower Oxford a while back and its owner and two workers pleaded guilty to animal cruelty charges. 333 purebred dogs were seized from the kennel, and this morning starting at 11AM about 85 of them (60 Cavalier King Charles spaniels and 25 papillons) go up for adoption at the Chester County SPCA (1212 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester). The adoption fee is $100. Call 610-692-6113 for more information. Be aware, however, that none of the animals are trained or housebroken, and some have medical conditions.
• Our second canine-related story has to do with a rather sad and unfortunate custody battle. That's right, a dog custody battle. A New Orleans family lost their dog during Hurricane Katrina, and it was later adopted by a family in Doylestown. The dog's new family made attempts to find its former owners, but were unsuccessful. Now the folks from New Orleans want their dog back, but the new family has become attached to it and are determined to keep it. Lawyers are being called, and it's all a big mess.
• Know a local cop or firefighter who could use some recognition for services rendered? Well, nominations are being accepted, now through July 14th, for a new heroism award (the Police and Firefighters Public Service Hero Award) for police officers and firefighters in Philadelphia and surrounding counties. On September 14th twelve awards will be given out to one cop and one firefighter from each county. For more information, you can call Jan Griesemer at 215-925-2800, ext. 124, or head over to the National Liberty Museum's website (they designed the award).

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