Dateline NBC- msnbc.com

A record 63 percent of all U.S. households own at least one pet. We cherish them as friends and family members. But would you throw a $30,000 party for your dog? NBC's Al Roker explores how doggone far we go.

NBC

Part 1: Our pets and why we love them

Part 2: Treating our pets like people

Part 3: Push for cutting edge medicine

Part 4: Red carpet life for celebrity pets

Part 5: When Fido is the celebrity

Part 6: First pets of the White House

Latest news and stories in pet health

advertisement | your ad here

CREATURE COMFORTS — BY KIM THORNTON

No-kill shelter nation? Maybe in 5 years
Many cities, animal control agencies and private shelters in the U.S. are forming alliances that they hope will lead to a no-kill nation in half a decade.

Raw deal? Some feed their pets uncooked diet

Is ‘people food’ ever OK? 7 pet myths

PICTURES AND ESSAYS

NBC News pets

Click here to read about and see the non-human members of the NBC News family.

Want to adopt a pet? Places to start

North Shore Animal League

ASPCA: Adoption page

Petfinder.org

advertisement | your ad here

Slide show

Nicolette Sheridan at World Style Pre-Oscar Event

Celebrity dogs
Click to see celebrities and their four-legged friends.

INTERACTIVES

A guide to feeding your dog or cat

Tips for traveling with your pet

Pet safety during the holidays