In a recent survey, the folks at Consumer Reports discovered that while many people were cutting back on holiday gifts, their pets were still likely to find something under the tree. So a recent recall for dog chews -- typical stocking stuffers -- caught our attention. Pet Carousel has recalled its stock of pig ears and beef hooves because the products may be contaminated with salmonella. The chewies are sold under the brand names Choo Hooves, Dentley’s, Doggie Delight and Pet Carousel at PetSmart and other pet stores.

Salmonella can affect both humans and animals. People handling dry pet food and/or pet treats can become infected, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after touching the treats or any surfaces exposed to them. Pets with salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some pets may only experience a decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected, but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans.  If your pet has consumed any of the affected products or is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. After all, you want Fido to feel frisky for the festivities.

Other news
How the Zhu Zhu hamsters dodged the wheel of death
BusinessWeek
Cepia CEO Russell Hornsby was in China, scrambling to ramp up production of Zhu Zhu Pets, when he heard the news that GoodGuide.com had published a report that the toy had chemical levels that might be too high. Hornsby was able to contain the scandal and avoid a recall thanks to one critical element: the U.S. government. Read more ...

You think you’ve got problems? Santa has a sleighful
The Boston Globe
I grew up in simpler times, when Santa just hitched up the reindeer, threw the sack in the sleigh, and hopped on, delivering gifts all over the place. But the world has gotten much more complex. For starters, Santa is obese and he rides in an unsafe vehicle. Read more ...

We need to learn how to let our kids live
Online Athens (GA)
The over programming and over scheduling of today's children is a reflection of the shift from psychological to physical protection. This, along with the advent of new technologies such as computer games and the Internet, effectively have moved childhood indoors. Read more ...

IRS: Tax deduction may go to homeowners with tainted Chinese drywall
Scripps News
The Internal Revenue Service said this week it would consider granting a tax deduction for homeowners who can prove they have suffered "sudden, unusual and unexpected" damage because of the building material. Read more ...

Ski helmet use on the rise
Burlington Free Press
Helmets are becoming increasingly common on the slopes, both in Vermont and throughout the country. This week, the National Ski Patrol embraced a helmet initiative with Vermont roots, and the National Ski Areas Association is developing a program to encourage those younger than 14 to wear helmets by 2012. Read more ...

As food production moves farther afield, tainted items become hard to avoid
The Washington Post
If you were planning to serve shrimp during the holidays, you might not want to talk to Michael Doyle, director of the Food Safety Center at the University of Georgia. You see, most of the shrimp sold in the United States, as well as the tilapia and some other fish, are grown in ponds on small farms in China and Southeast Asia. What they feed the fish doesn't belong in a family publication. Read more ...

Fixing our broken chemicals policy
The Huffington Post
While Afghanistan, the economy, Copenhagen and health care grabbed headlines this week, a number of prominent Senators turned their attention to the nation's policy on chemicals. Read more ...

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• 5,600 JCPenney Cooks Outdoor BBQ grills