Two Programs About Our "Best Friend"

Extraordinary Dogs
Some have said that human life has "gone to the dogs," and-in on respect -they're absolutely right. We've come to rely on these smart, dedicated, extremely social creatures to a much greater extent than we realize. Through amazing and often moving personal stories about individual dogs and their owner/trainers, we witness some of the extraordinary things dogs can do as our companions, helpers, protectors, and even workmates. faithful Poudre pulls his unconscious owner out of a rushing river. Two Labrador retrievers work closely with a search and rescue team to save avalanche victims. Twany, a German Shepherd, gives mobility and new meaning to the life of a boy with cerebral palsy. And military service dog Cracker takes the shrapnel intended for her handler - one of the thousands of lives saved by dogs during the Vietnam War. Narrated by the incomparable George Page, "Extraordinary Dogs" brings us new insights about these animals and their special bond with human beings.

Dogs: The Early Years
The biography of any dog begins right here: in that bouncing, pouncing, sniffing, and snarling stage known as puppyhood. Actor John Ritter narrates this playful and yet practical look at those early years, when dogs' wild and seemingly heedless behavior helps them learn the ropes of their new lives. The program profiles many different puppies - enlisting owners, breeders, vets, and dog lovers of every kind to weigh in on how and why the little ones act the way they do. While being thoroughly entertaining, this public television special provides plenty of useful advice of choosing the right puppy and training it in a way that ensures the dog's happiness - as well as your own. Will you mischievous pup grow up to be an extraordinary dog or just the beloved family pet. Will it be obedient or headstrong? "The Early Years" gives you an early start on shaping your canine's future.