DOGTV entertains your pooch while you're away

NEW YORK (FOX 5 NEWS) - "Leave a little love on" is one of the mottos of DOGTV, the first network designed just for Lassie, Snoopy and Toto.

DOGTV was founded by Ron Levi and Guy Martinovsky, two guys who loved animals and thought it would be a great idea to have something that could entertain them when they were home alone. Ironically the idea was sparked by a cat. Eventually Ron knew he was onto something.

Dog trainers, scientists and pet psychologists were all called in to weigh in on the idea and help shape the channel.

Here is how it works. Short 3- to 5-minute segments are grouped into three categories. The first is relaxation. The second category is stimulation. The third is exposure.

Shelby Semel has been a dog trainer for more than 6 years. Her 9-year-old Pomeranian Taz is her best friend and is often home alone. And while Shelby leaves classical music playing while she is gone, she cautions dog owners to not rid of their dog walker just yet.

DOGTV is already on DirecTV and is being tested on cable provider RCN.