Thursday, January 29, 2009

Shelter Dog

"We give dogs time we can spare, space we can spare and love we can spare. And in return, dogs give us their all. It's the best deal man has ever made." -M. Facklam

If this doesn't make you weep and smile at the same time...

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/index.php?cl=11771187

And just on a sidenote: Here in the KC area, shelters are reporting record numbers of abandoned cats and dogs, and shelters that euthanize, can not keep up with the "demand" (can't believe I'm using that word). Can anyone tell me why you would let your dog go, (even) when times are tough? A bag of dog food costs $14-$18 at Sam's and lasts one month for our two dogs. We take them to the vet every six months (sometimes more...a lot more... for the big one), but our neighbors are testament to the fact, that some dogs never go to the vet... so that's not even a necessity. So, why would you let your dog... the one who will love you in spite of your money and possessions...go? Why would anyone want to give up that unabashed joy and pure love that greets you when you walk through the door, regardless of your employment status or even how you treated them that morning? Are THAT many pet owners being pushed out of their homes and forced to move into apartments? Are people really in such dire circumstances that they can't afford an $8 bag of cat food?

I ask these questions, realizing that I am fortunate to live in a household with two incomes. I realize that I am fortunate to be able to drive to Sam's. But even in our darkest financial days, I could not have imagined letting our pups go.

I'm really, really not criticizing here... just truly wondering. So if anyone wants to leave a comment that could shed some light, I would gladly welcome the feedback and the discussion.

1 comment:

harold D said...

Dumping dogs or cats is wrong. Period. But in this case, it worked out. The people obviously could not afford their pet anymore, for whatever reason (sometimes, as you know, tough decisions have to be made)and the must have reasoned that dropping the dog off in a "nice" neighborhood gave him the best chance for survival. Their tactic worked, and now that big sweetie gets all the food he can eat and a warm place to sleep. Sounds like a better situation than sitting in a cage waiting to either be adopted or sadly, put to sleep. And no Patricia... you can't have another dog :^)