So, I never made it into the theaters to watch “Marley and Me” so I was excited when it came out on DVD this week. Its always exciting to me when there was a movie that I wanted to see but for whatever reason was not able to make it while it was in the theaters. I love movies so that doesnt happen that often.

It was a great family movie as it was done very clean. It was a great story and stayed pretty true to the book. I think that if you had never read the book before Marley would have come across as not that bad of a dog. One of the hardest things to do in a movie is good character development in the short time frame…I guess thats true even if the character is a dog.

The dog trainer in the movie was horrible. That was by far my least favorite scene. I think the producers owed Kathleen Turner a favor or something. luckily it was a short scene with the intent to show Marley was a tough dog to train. I guess it managed to make that point, but come on? Anyone else would have been better.

Im curious to see what effect the book and movie have on the Lab population. I know after movies like 101 dalmations, the dalmation population boomed. Labs are already at the top of the popularity list. Maybe the movie will have an adverse effect. It really doesnt matter, but the fact is the Labrador Retriever is a great breed and is the most popular for a good reason. The key as always is good training and socializing.

I know many people who are so passionate about dogs. They volunteer countless hours for dog rescues and shelters. What a blessing it is to have people like that in our world. Im am not just talking about these people but also the people that are passionate about world hunger, or drunk driving, rain forests or whatever it may be. There is not enough time to be able to actively work on all these things, thats what makes it so great that there are people out there doing something for what they feel passionate for.

Whatever your personal beliefs are, I dont think anyone can dispute that you just feel better when you are doing something to make a difference. It makes your life feel worth while. I am greatful to these people for making our world a better place for me, for my kids, and my animals. I hope that I am doing my part. I dont want to sit along the side lines wishing something was different. Lets get off our rear ends and do something about it!

Some of us our in positions in our lives where we may not have the time to do all we would like. Lets not have that as an excuse for doing nothing. There is always something we can be doing and maybe there will be a time when we can give more. The rewards are there if its 10min or 10hrs. The important thing is that we act.

So what is the fascination? There are more people wondering what dog the Obamas are going to get than there are wondering what healthcare policy’s he implements. It is a little crazy, isn’t it? There has always been interest in what dogs the First Family would have but in this case there is a huge interest.

I believe a big part of the interest comes from knowing that this will be their first dog. That makes it so exciting as we remember our own first puppy. We are so excited for the kids to get those first puppy kisses, excited for the first time the puppy learns a trick, excited for the first time the puppy lays at their feet.

I think another reason for the interest is that we know the president of the United States has no limits on his options. He could get any breed from any breeder. He has so many resources at his disposal to find the perfect dog. With all those resources, one has to wonder what dog they will choose?

I hope that everyone understands that they may not have the unlimited funds or people to do the homework for you, but if you are willing to do the things I have suggested you will have as many options as you need to find the perfect dog. No matter what your resources the puppy will not come obedience trained. You (or a trainer) will still need to give dog training and doing the right homework up front to get the dog that will best fit your family will make it much easier.

Good luck to the Obamas and anyone else looking for their next family member.