Personally, I could care less if a pet store that deals with exotic pets goes broke. ("Pet peeves," May 11). ...more

May 13, 2009

A passing driver alerted an Avon Park couple to a shed fire Tuesday morning in the rear of their North Torrington Road home, said Fire Chief Earl Gray, with the Highlands Lakes Volunteer Fire Department. ...more

March 4, 2009

no matter the electoral outcome. (His rival, John McCain, already has a bustling menagerie, including English springer spaniel Sam, Yorkshire terriers Lucy and Desi, mixed-breed Coco, Oreo the cat, two turtles named Cuff and Link, a ferret, three parakeets and more than a dozen saltwater fish.) ...more

August 14, 2008

The 240 exotic birds flanking the lanai outside Linda and Alan Loehr's place represent what they hope is the beginning of a thriving business. ...more

June 30, 2008

With more than 240 exotic birds on their lanai, you might think Linda and Alan Loehr walk around wearing earplugs, hard-pressed to enjoy a quiet home life. ...more

June 28, 2008

It's safe to say that Karen Clark has earned the nickname "The Squirrel Lady." ...more

December 27, 2007

It's safe to say that Karen Clark has earned the nickname "The Squirrel Lady." ...more

December 10, 2007

SEBRING — Instead of saying "I love you" with a Christmas kitten this year, how about a ball python, a scorpion, or even one of those warm, fuzzy tarantulas? That's what Highlands County pet shops are offering as gifts, and yes, they may make the season bright for some new pet owner. But, said Charles Bronson, Florida's agriculture commissioner, "Consumers should also consider suitability when purchasing an animal. "For example, some breeds of dogs may be less appropriate if there are infants or young children in a home," Bronson said. Likewise, consumers may want to think twice before purchasing a large animal if they live in a small dwelling Paul Antone disagrees in part. He's the owner of Arcade Pet Stop in Sebring. Instead of choosing against a breed of dog, he suggests asking about the background of the dog and the breeder. Any dog can bite, and any kitten can scratch. ...more

December 10, 2007

His name was Ernie. He was a gift to Mom from her hairdresser, who just happened to breed canaries. ...more

September 14, 2007