ATLANTA, Oct. 6 (UPI) -- Many have turned to non-traditional pets because they are considered easier to care for, but these animals can pose health risks, U.S. officials say.

A 72-year-old accused child murderer arrested in Cathedral City, Calif., waived extradition Monday to Toledo, where he allegedly raped and tortured a Central Catholic freshman before killing her nearly 41 years ago.

AMESBURY and mdash; The devastation along the Gulf Coast of Texas after Hurricane Ike paralleled the damage done by Hurricane Katrina for local animal control officer Becky Taylor. Taylor, along with several others from the Northeast, made the trip to hel

St. Barnabas Episcopal Church will host a blessing of the animals to honor St. Francis on Sunday. All furry, feathered and scaly creatures are invited to the blessing that will occur during the 10 a.m. service.

MANILA, Philippines—Dogs, cats, snakes and other pets took center stage on Saturday, World Animal Day, for blessings in various churches and parks all over the country.