Common concerns and fears about West Nile virus are addressed in a new brochure produced by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). "As news of increasing numbers of confirmed cases of West Nile virus in wild birds, horses and humans are reported across the country, people have expressed concerns about keeping their entire family safe, including their companion animals," said Dr. Joe M. Howell, President of the AVMA.

The brochure is posted on the AVMA Web site, www.avma.org, along with frequently asked questions about risks and prevention. Single copies of the brochure are available free of charge by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the AVMA, 1931 N. Meacham Road, Suite 100 Schaumburg, IL 60173.

Three hundred fiberglass dog statues recently began appearing on the streets of New York City. The statues honor the canine search and rescue (SAR) teams that participated in the relief effort undertaken at the World Trade Center one year ago

Five SAR dogs died while working at Ground Zero. The statues, which were painted by local artists and celebrities, will be auctioned off at the end of November to raise money for the American Kennel Club (AKC) Companion Animal Recovery Canine Support and Relief Fund. For more information, www.akc.org or www.ndsdf.org.