It has been said time after time lately that "El Niño" is to blame for all the natural disasters that our country is enduring. Much emphasis has been also put on the fact that as a result of "El Niño" people with chronic sicknesses such as asthma will endure many more health problems than the rest of us--and that many of us who consider ourselves healthy are bound to be afflicted by some health problems ourselves. Not only are humans affected by natural atmospheric phenomena such as "El Niño" our pets could be affected also. Pets, like humans, also suffer from allergies, upper respiratory problems, and so forth. If your pet is experiencing some unknown health changes, talk to your veterinarian. There are many wonderful things available today including natural medicine remedies that can help all of those symptoms and make your life and your pets' life a lot easier. Speaking of Natural Medicine, The Pet Tribune will be expanding the Holistic Care section as of the next issue, (June/July '98).

Would you like to see a photo of your pet in The Pet Tribune? Here is your chance to have your baby's photo in Florida's #1 Pet Publication. Send the cutest "summer photo" of your pet along with the pet's name, breed and age to: The Pet Tribune, P.O. Box 170925, Hialeah, FL 33017 for your chance to win 3 tickets to Disney World. Only one Grand Prizewinner will be awarded. All photos become the property of The Pet Tribune. Photos must reach our office no later than June 1, 1998. The Grand Prizewinning Photo will be featured in the Aug/Sept '98 issue. Go ahead, get creative!

Every time an issue is completed I always say, "This is the best one yet!" People in the office are getting tired of hearing me say that, but it's true. Countless hours of research are invested into publishing educational health issues that allow pet owners identify signs of trouble in the health of their pets, and the knowledge to exercise preventive medicine.

In this issue, we have the pleasure of featuring one of Florida's most popular television talk show hosts, Cristina. Often this blond bombshell has been called "The Spanish Oprah". A multi-talented TV personality and a soldier in the fight against AIDS, Cristina is happy to share with us a little bit about her career, her pets, her kids, and herself. Do not miss Cristina's interview on page 24-25.

May is a very special time of the year. Not only is it Mother's Day month, but it's also the time of the year for "Be Kind To Animals Week", and "PET ADOPTATHON '98" and almost time for "Adopt a Shelter Cat Month" (in June). Are you thinking of sharing your life with a four-legged furry friend? This is the time of the year were 1,000 shelters around the world and across the country in a joined effort to reach new goals, find suitable, loving homes for unwanted, abandoned, orphaned pets. The shelters are not interested in finding just any home. All potential adopters will be carefully screened to ensure all animals are adopted by responsible people. Animal shelters across the country set their goals in having more animals adopted during their PET ADOPTATHON than at any other time in history. For more information, contact The Pet Adoptathon Hotline at 1-800-400-7129. You can make a difference in a pet's life by becoming involved.

With this last thought I will leave you all 'till next time, and remember your comments and suggestions are always appreciated. "What you will do matters. All you need is to do it." - Judy Grahn.

Marie Tabsch
Publisher