Teena, thanks so much for providing that link regarding the puppy mills. It was hard to handle, but a real eye opener! I intend to show it to every pet lover I know.

I love all breeds of dogs and think they're all beautiful and special in their own way, but I've always been partial to Giant Schnauzers, Bouviers, Great Danes, and Irish Wolfhounds. However, my husband would never agree to such great beasts!

What do I have, you may ask? I have a German Short Hair/Wire Hair Pointer cross I rescued from the local shelter. He had been raised in a small appartment, muzzled for chewing, and had his water restricted so he could last unattended for longer. He was quite a handful at a rebelious 7 month old, but after a couple of years of hard work and patience, he's now our best friend. Max is true to his breeds, and does everything with great gusto - not one for the faint of heart!

I like the idea of saving lives....in fact, we also have two shelter cats who live in harmony with Mad Max :-)