any interruption in crude from nations around the strait, he said. Much Iranian crude has already been taken off world markets because of international sanctions.

A doubling of gasoline prices could have a major impact on everything from consumers' budgets to long-term changes in the market for electric cars, the economists said. If consumers come to expect a sustained run of high gas prices, the closing of the strait could prove to be a "tipping point'' that drives acceptance of new technologies like electric cars, said Nigel Griffiths, chief economist at IHS Automotive.

"An electric vehicle is forever,'' he said.

Consumers could end up spending an extra $145 a month for gasoline, he said.

Some evidence suggests that consumers in the U.S. are already making adjustments. A new survey by AAA saysindividual stamp and its story, ideally changing the stigma associated with shelter animals."

The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies recommends that Canadians go to their local humane society when considering pet adoption.

"Adopted animals come with great benefits: they have been spayed or neutered, micro-chipped, vaccinated and had a full vet check-up in addition to having their physical and behavioral health tested to ensure they are ready for a new home," says Barbara Cartwright, CEO of the CFHS. "But the real reward of adoption occurs when the right animal comes into your life and becomes a part of the family."

The official first day cover will be cancelled in Ottawa, Ont. in honor of the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies. The stamps are available in booklets of 10 stamps and souvenir