President Teddy Roosevelt’s six children grew up with no fewer than 40 animals, from dogs, ponies and guinea pigs to a one-legged rooster. Mo Rocca visits historic Sagamore Hill, the Roosevelt family retreat in Long Island, New York, for a look at their collection of animals worthy of an ark. Source

Known animal lovers, the Coolidges received many unusual animals as presents, including a raccoon intended to serve as Thanksgiving dinner; they gave it jewelry to wear instead Source

Gus, a “Great Dane-ish” mutt, has been by Michael J. Fox’s side about half as long as the “Back to the Future” actor has been battling Parkinson’s disease, and figures prominently in Fox’s new book, “No Time Like the Future.” Fox talked with correspondent Lee Cowan about the special bond between human and dog. Source

When Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev presented a gift to the Kennedys – a dog named Pushinka, whose parents were Soviet space dogs – it set tongues (and tails) wagging Source

For so many dog owners, pets are not only best friends and trusted companions, they are, in some ways, reflections of their best selves – literally. Correspondent Nancy Giles checks out some human and animal look-alikes. Source

Three out of four dog- and cat-owners consider their pets to be members of the family. And there are benefits to sharing our homes with animals: scientific research has demonstrated pet ownership is good for your health. Correspondent Martha Teichner looks at the bonds between pets and their pet parents, and how pet ownership feeds a nearly $100-billion-a-year industry. Source

The family of Steve Irwin is continuing the life mission of the “Crocodile Hunter” star, with their zoo and hospital aimed at protecting wildlife, and a TV series educating the public about the wonders of the animal world. Correspondent Seth Doane talks with Steve’s kids, Bindi and Robert Irwin; their mom, Terri; and Bindi’s new husband, Chandler Powell, about their unusual family business. Source

President John F. Kennedy’s family hosted a large number of pets, including dogs, a cat, hamsters and a pony. When Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev presented a gift to the Kennedys – a glamorous dog named Pushinka, whose parents were Soviet space dogs – it set tongues (and tails) wagging. Correspondent Mo Rocca reports. Source

Internet videos of pets and animals are more than just fun; they can also inspire. Correspondent David Pogue looks at the evolution of animal videos. Source

Approximately 50 Americans are now dying every hour. Source