Veterinary Pet Insurance recently analyzed its database of more than 466,000 insured pets to find the most popular dog and cat names of 2008. For both dogs and cats, Max was the most popular name in 2008. VPI's data indicates that there is a trend toward people names such as Max over more traditional pet names such as Fido. Some of the most popular dog and cat names also rank among the Social Security Administration's most popular baby names. I am guilty as charged!

Here's the list:

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For the 18th consecutive year, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular purebred dog in the US, according to 2008 registration statistics released today by the American Kennel Club (AKC). While more than twice as many Labs were registered last year than any other breed, the Bulldog continues to climb, or should I say snort, its way up the list. The breed made news last year by returning to the AKC’s Top 10 for the first time in more than 70 years and now has jumped 6%, advancing two spots to land in 8th place. Smushy faces represent!

2008 Most Popular Dogs in the US
1. Labrador retriever
2. Yorkshire terrier
3. German shepherd
4. Golden retriever
5. Beagle
6. Boxer
7. Dachshund
8. Bulldog
9. Poodle
10. Shih tzu

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As anyone with a Boston Terrier knows, plush toys are generally out of the question... unless you have money to burn and/or don't mind constantly vacuuming up stuffing.

I stopped by Bark & Fitz to pick up a little something for Rubes for her birthday, naturally, and owner Gary recommended a Puppy Tough Ball. I told him I wasn't so sure, and that Ruby would go straight for the eyes, but he mentioned the Chew Guard Technology, a super tough, durable liner, plus reinforced seams. I got the pig. I had high hopes.

Here is the result after approximately 10 minutes:

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Last Sunday Ruby and I had our second annual combined birthday party. We don't really know how old Ruby is but we've placed her at about 4. As for me, well I've stopped counting. Anyhow, we had a better than expected turnout and most of Ruby's doggy friends were there including Diesel, Gizmo, Rampage, cousin Maggie, Babs, and Stella plus their respective guardians plus Stella's new human brother, baby Rhys. It was a full house! Ruby and I love our dog and human friends. (more...)

Speaking of the White House, Obama has apparently narrowed his choice to two breeds: Labradoodle and Portuguese Water Dog. Now, I used to run a pet business and since these are very trendy breeds I have a bit of experience with them and I just have two words to say about it - HIGH STRUNG or alternatively GOOD LUCK. No, I'm not bitter because they aren't choosing a Boston Terrier, I just know from experience that these two breeds can be a handful. Luckily the Obamas can afford the best trainers... they may need it. The other disappointing thing about it is that they are not going to find either of these breeds at a shelter or rescue group.

But what I really wanted to show you was this cute video: