Expert hopes new movie won’t spur people to let the dogs out

The Disney film “102 Dalmatians” opens in many Iowa theaters today, prompting a warning from the director of the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. Tom Colvin says he’s speaking from experience when he urges people -not- to rush out and buy a spotted dog.When “101 Dalmatians” was released in 1996, shelters nationwide were overrun with abandoned pooches. Colvin says people are barking up the wrong tree when they consider buying a pet on impulse. The animals often end up neglected or in a shelter. He says people need to carefully consider the amount of time and money they can devote to a dog.Colvin says the cute, clever black-and-white dogs depicted in the movie aren’t an accurate view of the Dalmatian breed.Dalmatians typically are prone to skin allergies and deafness. They’re also very active and require much exercise and attention. He says training is essential and not always easily accomplished.