January 2008 Featured Dog Breed – the Dachshund

Whether Smooth, Long, or Wirehaired, the Dachshund can be seen in a wide assortment of colors & patterns, ranging from red, to black-and-tan, cream, chocolate, rust, copper, fawn, or blue.

Although typically growing no more than 35lbs. in weight once fully mature, the relatively loud bark and courageous vigor frequently exhibited by the Dachshund has led it’s owners to fondly refer to them as, “big dogs in small packages.

Ancestry of the Dachshund can be traced back to as early as the 1500’s.

Translating from German to read, “Badger Dog,” the Dachshund’s name accurately depicts this history. It was the stature, stamina, and fearlessness of the breed that led German foresters, gamekeepers, and sportsmen to so highly value and breed these oddly-proportioned dogs for hunting badger and other small vermin.

January 2008 Featured Cat Breed – the Turkish Van

The Turkish Van is a particularly unique and striking feline breed on many levels.

Recognized as one of the largest of the domestic cat breeds, Turkish Vans are known to reach up to 20lb. in weight upon full maturity.

The breed’s large, muscular frame is covered by an extremely soft, predominantly white, semi-longhaired coat, characteristically accented by ring-like markings along their “bottlebrush” tail and head region.
Large paws and a wedge-shaped head framed by a mane-like ruff and adorned with two large, round eyes in a golden, amber, green, blue, or even bi-eyed tone are also customary.

Roots of the Turkish Van breed’s