SACRAMENTO, CA - Farmers Insurance says it will no longer cover pit bulls, rottweilers, and certain wolf hybrids under your homeowner's insurance.

"These three breeds account for 25 percent of all dog bite claims and cause more harm when they attack than any other breed," says Erin Freeman, Chief Communications Officer at Farmers.

But animal rescue groups say this unfairly condemns certain breeds and insurance companies should consider coverage on a case-by-case basis.

"You look at the individual dog just like people you can't make judgements about someone just based on an appearance," says Dawn Capp with Chako Pit Bull Rescue.

Farmers says California homeowners will be notified of the change as their policies come up for renewal.

by Brittany Davis Pulley, BDavis-Pulley@news10.net

SACRAMENTO, CA - George McKamy was out for an early morning walk along the American River at Sutter's Landing when he was startled by a loud noise coming from the water.

"It scared the pants off of me," McKamy said in an email.

He was able to get his camera up in time to get a shot of the creature that made the noise, and believes he took a picture of a small whale's blowhole.

But other regular visitors to Sutter's Landing said what McKamy saw was more likely a large sea lion that's been hanging around the area in recent weeks feeding on fish.

Paddleboard instructor Rob Macias caught the sea lion on video Feb. 5, and said the mammal was about three-quarters the length of his 12-foot paddleboard.

Macias said he, too, was startled by the sound of the massive exhale.

"That's what attracted me at first.  I was paddling and heard that sound," Macias said.

On Valentine’s Day many expect chocolates, red roses and other surprises. For the flamingos, it’s another kind of special day - their annual visit with the veterinarian.  The flamingo round-up is also a big day for keepers, vets and staff... Read More