The American Humane Association is accepting nominations for its annual "Be Kind to Animals" Kid Contest.

The contest recognizes children, ages 6 to 13, who have shown a long-term commitment to animal welfare, or who have performed an heroic act to save an animal.

Prizes will be awarded during "Be Kind to Animals Week" in May. The grand prize winner will receive a college scholarship and a great prize package! Visit the AHA website at www.americanhumane.org for more information.

A report in the September issue of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) investigating fatal human attacks by various dog breeds has concluded that breed-specific legislation is not a solution to the problem of dog attacks.

Dr. Gail Golab, co-author of the study and Assistant Director of the AVMA Education and Research Division, reports that "the breeds responsible for human fatalities have varied over time. Since 1975, dogs belonging to more than 30 breeds have been responsible for fatal attacks on people -- including Dachshunds, Golden Retrievers, a Yorkshire Terrier, and a Labrador Retriever."

Despite the public perception that certain breeds, like Rottweilers and Pit Bulls are the problem, Dr. Golab says that "a dog of any breed can become dangerous when bred or trained to be aggressive."

For more information, see the News section of AVMA website at www.avma.org/press.