Animal Issues in 2009
Well - the start of a brand new year for us is always very exciting. We try and use it as yet another 'kick starter' to get ourselves up to speed brimming with optimism for what might lie ahead.

There are so many pet and animal issues 'on the agenda' for 2009. Some we feel very strongly about... others, well like politics, there's a lot of hot air around sometimes, but that doesn't make the issue any less worthy.

Long time listeners know we have always tried to provide rock solid expert information for pet owners on every topic whether it's how to find a good dog trainer to rescue groups or pets in pet shops. 

Right now the issues that affect people everywhere include (but are not limited to), mandatory de-sexing, mandatory registration, mandatory microchipping in all states, pets in pet shops, backyard breeders, no-kill shelters... the list goes on and on and on!!

Always Ask 'Who?...Why?'
Please - whenever you read a blog on the internet or something in the paper or see it on TV regarding a pet and animal issue, ask yourself this... "what is the motive behind this story? - who has written it and why?" - and why have they written/produced this story like this?

There are some well orchestrated campaigners around right now - some are literally "sheep in wolves' clothing" planting a thought... a seed to germinate in your mind that is part of a much bigger plan regarding pet ownership here in Australia and in many countries overseas.

It's a fairly easy job to orchestrate media stories. Big business does it all the time. Feedback we've had recently and our own observations indicates a lot of manipulation and campaigning is going on in the background with journalists etc.

Yes even supposedly 'impartial' journalists have their own point of view - it's only natural!

The Truth About News
While we don't want you (or us) to become cynical of every news story (or blog/forum etc) highlighting (say) the possible imminent demise of some cute fluffy kittens or puppies, just be aware there are two main reasons for a news story.

1) Entertainment
That's right - news is not really news. News is, was and will always be pure entertainment. It makes money for the outlets that process it. It fills in the spaces between the money making advertising.

So if it makes us laugh, gasp or cry or want to get out and protest, you'll probably see/hear/read it in the news.

2) See point #1

Bottom line? - Make up your own mind on any issue by all means, but always question EVERY comment, story, blog or even posts on various forums. Even our own!!... and if we say something you don't agree with - let us know ok?

Brian Pickering - Producer/Co-host