When Beth Lacey Gill graduated from St. Lawrence University and moved back home to Baltimore County, she knew right away she wanted a Golden Retriever. "They have great smiles and are very loyal," Gill said. "I didn't want a dog for protection. I wanted a dog that was my friend." Gill found that dog in 13-year-old Gonzo, who was named for the Muppet, and the father of "Gonzo Journalism," Hunter S. Thompson. Gill adopted Gonzo from GRREAT, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue of Golden Retrievers in the mid-Atlantic. Gonzo was 3-years-old when Gill adopted him. There are …

Pet stores would have to reveal more about the origins of the puppies they sell and reimburse customers for vet costs if a sold puppy becomes ill, according to legislation being considered in the Maryland House of Delegates this month. The legislation comes following a controversy in Columbia regarding a new pet store, Charm City Puppies, which opened in January and sells luxury pet goods, as well as puppies. Animal shelters advocates and other groups raised concerns about the store, saying plenty of shelter animals need homes, and pet store animals often come from puppy mills. Charm City …