Springtime at Ohio State attracts students and animals to the grassy paradise of the South Oval. Walking past a random wild rabbit on the Oval is nothing exciting; however, it is unusual to see a student walking a 20 pound pet rabbit.

Jessica Parks with her Flemish Giant rabbit, Priscilla, was just one of hundreds of pet owners who attended the Ohio Union Activities Board's "Cookout with Pets" Saturday.

Parks, a junior in psychology, said Priscilla is not any ordinary rabbit.

"I'm big on unique animals," she said. "We don't keep her in a cage, we let her run. She's potty trained, so it's convenient. She uses a litter box."

Pet owners such as Parks are the types of students OUAB wanted to reach through this event. "We try to get pet people to come out because a lot of times maybe they won't come to events because they can't bring their pets," said Ashley Busa, a senior in marketing and research management and OUAB special events chairperson.

Animal gassing practice debated

PRINCESS ANNE -- Somerset County Commissioners said Tuesday they will consider switching euthanization methods at the county's Dog Control facility after members of several animal rights groups protested the use of a gas chamber.

The meeting -- which included the three employees of the department -- was closed to the public, but County Administrator Charles Massey said commissioners were considering suggestions made by those present.

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This week's community meetings, events

Mother's Day Brunch, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., St. John's Parish Center, Fruit Farm Road, Collegeville. Cost: $7, adults; $3, children younger than 13; younger than 5 are free.

Open Swimming, noon-4 p.m., South Junior High School, 1120-15th Ave. S. Sponsored by St. Cloud Recreation. Cost: $2. Call 257-5952.