Shelters open across Cape and islands

(NECN: Lauren Collins, Chatham, Mass.) - The Red Cross has six regional shelters open for those who do not feel safe in their homes as Hurricane Earl approaches.

A full list can be found by clicking here.

Among those taking advantage of the shelter, a family from Germany, who had to pack up and leave Nickerson State Park.

Expert: Reptile abandonment a common problem

(NECN: Plaistow, NH) - Reptile manager Ryan Cordiero of Zoo Creatures in Plaistow, New Hampshire tells NECN reporter Lauren Collins that unfortunately, reptile abandonment is a common problem.

Starving Chihuahua found in Lawrence, Mass. dumpster

(NECN: Greg Wayland, Lawrence, Mass.) - A dog in desperate need of food, water and medical care was discovered in a dumpster in Lawrence, Massachusetts earlier this month.

The Chihuahua, nicknamed Ghandi, was brought to the MSPCA Nobel Family Animal Care and Adoption Center in Methuen.


He is currently gaining much-needed weight and receiving medical attention for starvation, dehydration and severe hair loss.

Ghandi was discovered on August 13th in a dumpster at a construction site along Oxford Street in Lawrence.

Animal officials estimate he is roughly 12-years-old.

Abandonment constitutes animal cruelty in Massachusetts and perpetrators may receive a fine of up to $2,500 and/or up to five years in prison.

Donations are being accepted for the MSPCA-Angell's Pet Care Assistance program to help homeless animals, pets from Law Enforcement investigations, and pet owners in need.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE.

Great white shark spotted off Mass. coast

(NECN: Boston) - Passengers on board a Boston Harbor Cruises whale watch didn't get to see any whales. Instead they did see a big shark the crew believes was a great white.

Passengers gave the pictures to NECN of the shark spotted at Stellwagon Bank between Cape Ann and Cape Cod.

The naturalist on board the cruise believes it was a great white based on its shape, feeding techniques and behavior.

All about shopping for dogs

Keeping your pet healthy living in concrete jungle

(NECN) - City life offers incredible social opportunities for dogs, but  it also presents a few potential health hazards.
     
Joining the Secret Life of Animals with the veterinarian's perspective on urban dogs is our own Dr. Martha Smith, a top veterinarian at the Animal Rescue League of Boston.

Minding your manners at City Dog Training

(NECN) - One of the great benefits of living in the city for people is that there is so much to do.
     
And the same holds true for pets.