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RHE RHE WINS A FAMILY

This is a story of love in the nick of time. As you read it, you’ll understand why this Pittie girl, now adored as “Rhe Rhe,” has the spotlight in our long-running weekend feature, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap.
Rhe Rhe has a home where she’s adored. Her humans are Evi and Cory Freeman, their daughter KyLeigh and their son Landyn. And there are also two Mini Doxies, Bruce and Lucy.

Oh, but there was a time… Way back in the middle of Summer, the Mesquite Shelter’s volunteer bi- ographer Judi Brown sent us a note about a “2-year-old smiling Pitt looking for something to smile about.” 
That's "Rhea" at the shelter.
The key fact was this: It was Monday and Rhea was a “Code Red” for a Tuesday morning.
She’d been surrendered months earlier because her owners were moving. 
In the shelter, Judi, who personally visits the animals she writes about, said, “She kept going to the door. She cried some and I felt she was missing her owners.” But nobody was coming back for this affectionate, gentle, 44-pound Pittie girl.
[LARRY ASIDE: We frequently hear about an animal's plight, write about it and never learn what happened. Sometimes you don't want to learn. Tough on the heart, you know.]
THEN SOMETHING WORKED OUT
You see that photo of the dog curled up and out like a light in the stripes of a comforter? Yep, that's Rhe Rhe. Last week I got an email from an elated Judi Brown. It had this photo and the sentence, “Currently she’s asleep on mommy’s side of the bed.” That’s a long way from “Code Red for 11 a.m. Tuesday.

 Shortly after the adoption in mid-summer, Evi wrote to Judi: “Update on Rhea...I’m not sure why anyone would give her up. She’s full of kisses and well-mannered. She has to be touching us and loves to sleep under the covers.  She doesn’t try to get food from counters and she just sits by the table while we eat. She doesn’t bark either. She sits so weird in the car but loves to go on rides." (That's her enjoying a car ride!)
[LARRY ASIDE: So, yes, this rescued dog is an example of the good work of the Mesquite program that promotes adoption of animals from a municipal shelter!]
ADORATION FOR RHE RHE
After Judi told us about this great adoption, we got in touch with Evi and asked if she had any photos of this great dog. Boy, does she.

[LARRY ASIDE: We've had Pittie types in our home and they've every one been lovely and mannerly. Still, the traditional question from people who’ve never had a dog like Rhe Rhe is this: “Why did you want a Pittie?” So we asked Evi.]
“Never had one,” Evi replied, “But my husband has always seen them out and they have always been friendly and just beautiful. Hate that everyone is so scared of them. When workers come to our gates they freak out. I laugh because I’m like ‘she’s not the one to worry about. It’s the little dogs that will get you’.” [LARRY ASIDE: These are the innocent Mini Doxies, Bruce and, in black and white, Lucy.]

HOW RHE RHE JOINED THE FAMILY
This photo of Landyn, Bruce and Rhe demonstrates a comfortable friendship. Keep it in mind as you read on.

Evi starts the story on the “first day at the shelter.” She says, “My daughter and I just went to look because we had been wanting a Pitbull.  We stayed for 2 hours.  Looking at all the dogs and took some out to play.  Rhea — currently Rhe Rhe or Happy Feet — was is the first kennel curled in a ball in the corner. Didn’t come to the window like a lot of the other dogs but for some reason I kept walking back by to look at her.   

“At 2 hours it was time to go and I looked at my daughter and said, ‘I think I want to see this dog and play with her.’

“We took her outside and I was in love. She didn’t play fetch...which wasn’t going to be good because my son at home wanted a playful dog. LOL. [See Landyn’s photo above.]
"We had to leave. I promised my husband I wouldn’t come home with a dog. 

“Judi had told me she would be put down the next morning because she had been there so long.  I went home told my husband about her and he said OK. Now the challenge was to get her before 8 a.m. and hope that she gets along with our two MiniDachshunds. All worked out fine.”

THE BEST DOG EVER

“Now, this little lady has been the best dog ever,” Evi says. “She loves her human family and all friends and she loves her doggy brother and sister.  But not other dogs.
“She is the biggest and best snuggle bug. Loves all laps and blankets. She also loves to hang out on the patio with my husband and his friends. She’s got her own chair and is in the middle of it all. She won’t come inside til the last man leaves. LOL. She hates water and bath time. She will throw the biggest fit after running and flipping. It’s so funny. 
“She is also the loudest snorer in this house. It’s so cute and funny.”

As you can see from the photos, everyone in the family — humans and Doxies — has an investment in Rhe Rhe.  [LARRY ASIDE: That's KyLeigh with her pal Rhe Rhe -- perhaps praciticing for showbiz careers!]
Evi says, 
“What won me over is that smile. I mean look at it. She jumped in my lap as soon as we got her outside. I was toast.”

On the right, that’s the first family-related photo — Evi and Rhe Rhe as they were meeting at the Mesquite Animal Shelter. From that point on, well, Rhe Rhe owned some hearts.
And, in case you want to check out the adorable adoptables at Mesquite Animal Services, this could be your LINK TO HAPPINESS.
Oh, and I saved this photo or last because it cracks me up. Dogs are so human -- don't tell me you've never seen anybody nodding off with their mouth wide open!

[SEND US YOUR PICTURES! Readlarrypowell.com loves to tell the stories of animals that are loved and are trusting sleepers in the home the humans gave them. FYI -- I couldn't let this photo of well-behaved Lucy and Rhe Rhe go unused...Back to your job: Send the stories and photos of your beloved snoozers to dallrp@aol.com. We believe Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap inspires people to open their hearts and homes to animals. And, these slumbering critters demonstrate to the world’s insomniacs that there are ways to get some sleep — you just have to find the right striped comforter.]
—- To offer admiration or appreciation for people who save shelter animals, click on ‘comment’ below or email dallrp@aol.com. —-

A FRIDAY COLLECTION: A HAPPY START AND A BRIGHT ENDING

EDITION OF FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018 [PetPowellPress] If you’ve awakened to snow, we had nothing to do with it. We’re ignoring weather so we can write about a hospital supply drive, baking for exotic animals and assorted other notes.
 We’re going to slip a happy one into the top of this edition. You may recall this handsome guy from a recent edition. He’s Ol’ Man Al, the senior Pittie who was brought to the Lake Dallas Shelter “with a heavy chain around his neck.” The original note read, “He is incredibly affectionate and just wants a home he can lay around in and enjoy the company of his people.”
On Thursday we got the news rom Amy Poskey, our tipster. “I just wanted to let you know that Ol’ Man Al has been adopted!  A friend of a friend of mine just lost their Pittie so my friend told them about Al and they fell in love!  WOOHOOOOO!!!” Always good to see a signature Amy Poskey “WOOHOOOOO!”
THE DRIVE FOR SUPPLIES
AT OPERATION KINDNESS

The big no-kill shelter Operation Kindness is in the middle of its “Stock The Hospital Campaign” and is needing donations for supplies that help make life better for the animals that arrive and wait. According to OK, the organization is the “go to partner for 47 municipal shelters and rescue centers…” In 2017, 63 percent of the animals at OK came from shelter partners, the shelter reports. The stats for the 2017 medical procedures included “3,140 spays and neuters; 529 cases of heartworms; 2,083 cases of upper respiratory infections; and, 363 orthopedic, ophthalmic and internal surgeries.”
See how to donate HERE .
And see a couple of dogs — the pup and Boomer the hero —who are involved in OK’s medical work HERE.
 
A REMINDER OF BAKERS
AT WORK FOR ANIMALS

Put this in your reminders — the 11th annual Bakers For In-Sync Exotics are conducting their 11th annual baked goods and crafts sale Monday — details are on the artwork. Our tipster Corby Bryan says this one is going to be “THE Extreme Bake Sale.” [LARRY ASIDE: I read the list of baked goods HERE  and put on two very happy pounds.]
Remember 8 a.m. -6 p.m. Monday, December 17, 5910 N. Central Expressway, just north of Mockingbird Lane.
TWO MORE
AT WILMER
We’ll make this short. Travis is the Catahoula who was dumped, picked up and brought to the already crowded Wilmer shelter. The brown dog is Misty, a Staffie girl who was found running with Cindy Lou. By now you now the story — small shelter, no human traffic and the only way the animals get saved is by rescuers or adoptors. Call or text Laura Macias, the shelter advocate, at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71/@yahoo.com.
THE MESQUITE ANIMALS
CONTINUE TO ARRIVE
This one is Finley, a 2-year-old Retriever girl surrendered to Mesquite Animal Services because, the biographer Judi Brown reports, “she was unwanted.” Finley is 33454485. Use that number when you call the shelter at 972-216-7283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com. 
Judi reports, “When I went into her kennel she actually started hyperventilating. She trembled all over. She did not show any aggression. You can tell from the picture that she just backed into the corner and hugged the wall.”

CONTEMPLATIONS

A POWER OUTAGE AND THE MORNING

We had our first power failure of the season about 8:30 a.m. Thursday — I’d just begun to work on some money-making freelance intrigue when the electricity went off, knocking into silence Alexa and her presentation of some Hayes Carll songs. Knowing that the great Hayes Carll couldn’t possibly be the reason the lights went off, I grabbed my bowl of warmish oatmeal (healthy day on our block) and strolled onto the front porch to discover that there was, yes, a drizzly rain suddenly falling — no thunder, no warning, just a cloud opening without warning over our neighborhood. Felt like a nearly summer rain. I half expected to see steam rising off the asphalt at the end of the driveway.
I guess the light company was practicing for the first Blizzard o’ L8teen. You know, “late ’18.” We didn’t have a blizzard in Early8teen. 
And the weather forecasts have been scaring people to death for two days around here. So, probably, the light company handbook called for “Reminder Outages.” That way we’d all remember to locate our flashlights and the list of emergency numbers we printed out and hid somewhere. I didn’t find my list.
But I wasn’t in the biggest fix in the house. Only three mammals were awake. I was already at the typewriter, er, keyboard, working — the Lesser American Novel needs words, you know — and my gainfullyemployedspouse Martha was getting ready for work. In the darkened house, with the water running, I heard her yell from the shower, “Is the electricity off?” Her alternative question could have been “Have I been struck blind?” I was careful with my reply. “Yes. Power outage,” I said.
She was reaching a critical point in the shampooed hair/dry it for the office process. My heart went out to her, but I was busy coping. 
Our youngest family member, Simon the Cat, a child in cat years, paced in the dark. It was his first power failure. Within about five minutes, all of the lights came on, I began rebooting things that needed rebooting and Simon wandered off to find a dark place to sleep. Martha went to the office. And I, hitting the save button every 30 seconds, began to write. But, you may say, the computer will automatically save things. And I say to you, “Yes, and in the 21st century, the lights will never go out on a Monday morning as people are getting ready to go to the office.” That is Simon, glowing in the dark, then studying the revelations of the entryway rug pattern in a lighted environment and, then, of course, later snoozing on the back of the couch with Porche Noel who, of course, was not the least bit concerned by the power failure — she’d been fed on time so her life was good.

— Offer advice or light the darkness by clicking on “comment” below or emailing dallrp@aol.com. —-

DOGS, CATS, FAMILIES OF DOGS, ODD DOG STORIES, ETC. READ ON AND HELP

EDITION OF THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018 [PetPowellPress] My the time is flying. So, let’s jump quickly into our Thursday edition. Favorite Christmas nut (1) Salted, roasted cashews, (2) Buddy the Elf or (3) Ernest P. Worrell. As you contemplate those answers, read on and see if you or someone you now can help the animal world. What? Oh, (2) Elf with Will Ferrell and (3) Jim Varney in Ernest Saves Christmas. Read on.
AND THEN THE FAMILY MOVED…
So, there’s Woofie with her family. We got the alert on her from reliable tipster Amy Poskey who wrote, “This sweet momma and her five precious babies need our help!  Woofie is a Shepherd/Labby mix turned in [to the Denton McNatt Animal Shelter] by the owner who was moving and could not take this family with them. Momma is super sweet and her puppies are plump and seem very healthy..
The McNatt Animal Care and Adoption Center is at 3717 N. Elm St. in Denton. To ask about helping Woofie and family, email gayla.nelsen@cityofdenton.com, paul.o’neill@cityofdenton.com, dentonshelterdogs@yahoo.com, and/or dentonanimalservices@yahoo.com. Call 940-349-7594.
BUGSY INEXPLICABLY
RETURNS TO MESQUITE
Perhaps the word “inexplicably” is too sweeping — maybe nobody reading this paragraph can explain the situation, but for someone it isn’t “inexplicable.”
 Bugsy, a year old Pittie/Shepherd mix first arrived at Mesquite Animal Services in January. Mesquite’s volunteer biographer Judi Brown sent out his alert on January 26 and he was adopted, but, now, there he is again, a resident of the Mesquite Animal Services Shelter. He’s been back since December 5 and no one has claimed him. To ask about him, use his shelter number 37588933.
Klaus, the 3-year-old Lab mix, is new to the shelter —- came in on December 4 and, Judi writes that “he is depressed. He lays in his kennel and for this reason does not show well. … He is well-mannered and gentle. ... He spent a lot of time looking out the gate. I couldn’t help but wonder if he wasn’t looking for his owners to come back and get him!” He’s #40302355 when you ask about him.
Jingles (40292473) is the Bulldog mix with the great face — stray, arrived Dec. 3. Nobody looking for her. Judy says, “She is definitely affectionate. When I sat down, she put her head on my lap. She stayed close and didn’t mis an opportunity tog et her ears scratched.”

We’ll close Mesquite’s list with Godiva, the Chocolate Lab. Judi writes, “Due to the shelter filling up quickly, I am told that Godiva will be on the next Code Red list. So I am trying to be proactive. If you cannot tag, rescue, or adopt, please network her.
Godiva is a two-year-old chocolate lab mix that was surrendered because the owners were moving. Unfortunately the owners did not fill out an owner surrender form so I am lacking background information on her. … Here she is at the shelter missing her family and finds yourself overwhelmed by all the noise. To top that off she has very recently had a litter and her babies are not with her! Then I think she heard me say she’s going to be on the next Code Red list. The pictures do not do her justice as she was intimidated by the snapping of the camera.”
 To ask about helping these dogs or any other animals in the Mesquite shelter, call 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com. To see more Mesquite animals click HERE.
ALREADY KNOWS HOW
TO BE A COMFY CAT
This is a young cat who needs a new home. Our tipster, the great Sydney Busch of Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake, sent a note that reads, “This handsome boy is gentle, loving - loves to be held - owner who took him in is elderly and wants him to have a home that will outlive him!
“He is neutered, up to date on vaccines. Just wants to be held and have his belly rubbed!”
Clearly, he will not need to be trained in the category of “Accepting Belly Rubs.”
 To offer to give this little guy a great home, call Charlene at 903-887-4773 or 972-345-1756 or email her at charlenekey@MK68tx.org.
TWO STORIES FROM
BURNS FLAT’S FRONT LINES
Way out in Western Oklahoma, Terry Lynn Fisher finds herself between animals and disaster frequently. She’s the relentless rescuer who works to keep the Burns Flat, Okla., animal shelter from euthanizing animals. Here are two she is working with right now.
SADIE’S STORY:  This is a story of shiftiness. 
At a year-and-a-half, Sadie has hit a really rough spot. Terry Lynn writes, “Two weeks ago, I received a call from my ACO about a lady wanting to surrender her dog. Pregnant, no fence. The lady just has too much going on and cannot keep her. While speaking with him, a call keeps beeping in. It is the manager of a rental company here. I call her back and she tells me she has a renter in her office and she wants to surrender her dog ASAP. I am freaking — TWO at the same time. Well, the only GOOD thing was, same lady, same dog. 
I asked my friend to ask her if she could keep the dog while I searched for a place and she said NO. SHE NEEDS TO GO NOW. So, I send my ACO to get her.

“That night, I received a message about a missing dog. I asked the guy to send me location and pictures.. I never heard back, so I assumed he found it. Two days later, I get pictures. IT IS SADIE, THE SAME DOG.

“I called him and asked if he had a pregnant wife and no fence. He was like, ‘Yes, how did you know?’  I informed him his dog had been surrendered to the pound Friday..
"He was upset and said he wanted her back. I had that ‘feeling,’ so I informed him she had already left the state for rescue. I needed details.
“My friend went and spoke with the wife. She said the husband beat the dog every day and would only feed once every two or three days. She is housebroken but when not let out, she would potty in house and he would beat her for it. Soooo. She is NOT going back there at all. So I have her in boarding. My boarding lady takes them home sometimes.. the video is her there, eating ice…”
CLICK HERE to see calm, ice-eating Sadie and, when she stands, check out her ribs.

THEN THERE’S THIS BIG GUY. “He is gorgeous,” Terry Lynn writes. "He is also HOMELESS. Found out in the country, we really thought owners would claim. He was taken to the town near where he was found and put on a stray hold. …When the time came they were going to put him down. I could not let it happen. He is older, maybe 5 or more... Not neutered... I have had him in boarding and got his shots. VERY well behaved; he knows basic commands too. He is laid back and your typical Lab.  He is getting sad in the kennel, so I really am searching for a place asap..”
To offer to help Sadie or Big Gorgeous, contact Terry Lynn at remembering_oddball@yahoo.com.

CONTEMPLATIONS
MONEY, RATS AND THIS DOG’S VIDEO

Perhaps as you’re spending dollars during the holiday shopping season it is amusing to note that on this day, December 14 in 1978, the U.S. produced the first Susan B. Anthony Dollar. (This is a photo from an online source of the first year’s version.) You may recall that earlier this year the Texas State Board of Education decided to keep Susan B. Anthony in the curriculum for public schools. She’s in circulation, but her dollar isn’t. People saved them and they didn’t fit any machines except, late in the century, stamp vending machines at U.S. Post Offices. You can look it up! No charge -- we don't take Susan B. Anthony Dollars. Who am I kidding? I'll take any dollar you'll pay me. … Saw this Associated Press story Wednesday about rats overrunning Washington, D.C. Turns out to be actual rodents, not human rats. The story read, “The nation’s capital is facing a spiraling rat infestation, fueled by mild winters and a human population boom.” If I may be so bold, I have a solution. You know how the Society for Companion Animals flies unwanted North Texas dogs to far off cities where they’re adopted loved and honored? How about someone form an organization to fly Dallas’ unwanted feral cats to Washington to patriotically help in the rat reduction drive? Most of us have already adopted all the ferals we can tame, so, maybe, it’s time to export them to Washington. In winter, when Congress is on vacation, the cats can bunk in either of the Houses and enjoy the finely appointed furniture and national warmth. … This dog? Ah, sweet dog. Someone sent this link to me — because I am technically malfunctionable, I cannot tell you who sent it, but, please, as you watch it, confess that you, too would love to hug that baby and “borrow” the antlers so the pup won’t be so anxious! Still, that dog’s look is something that is simply “dear.”
—- Offer an opinion or a solution to life by clicking on “comment” below or emailing dallrp@aol.com. —-

THE FACES THAT CAN ENHANCE YOUR LIFE; A CONTEMPLATION OF CARS...

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2018 [PetPowellPress] We’ll be looking at faces in this edition — the faces of adoptables. And we’ll have some Contemplations that remind us of a high point in American automobile manufacturing. Vroom. Vrooom. SPUTTER. HISSSsssss. … Those are the faces of Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson and an undisclosed operative preparing to watch rooftops for the arrival of an undisclosed visitor later this month. Now, let’s go to the dogs … and cats.
A REMINDER ABOUT
THE SPCA OF TEXAS

This year the SPCA has frequently made headlines with its rescue activities and its investigations of animal cruelty cases. The thing to remember is that all along the SPCA continues to adopt out dogs and cats, farm and ranch animals and rodents and rabbits.
 And if the Mars InSight lander’s cameras spot and unclaimed Martian Sand Spaniel or Longhaired Red Sandcat, you can bet the SPCA will work to find homes for them. No doubt someone will have smuggled some back from Mars and will be trying to breed them for sale at flea markets. Trust me, that’s exactly what will happen.
In the meantime, we have these great Earthling animals awaiting a home via the SPCA. That great feline face in the grafs above belongs to Bellatrix (#120401). She’s about 5 !/2 years old and is at the SPCA’s Russell H. Perry Animal Care Center in McKinney. [LARRY ASIDE: A lot of people will recognize the name “Bellatrix” from Harry Potter’s stories. But some of the more unearthly readers will recall that Bellatrix, aka Gamma Orionis, is, as Wikipedia says, the “third-brightest sstar in the constellation of Orion.” You can’t get to Orion without going past Mars. As you travelers probably know.] 
This Bellatrix wound up in the SPCA’s care because her “previous owner’s baby developed an allergy” to her. Bellatrix likes to sit in the window and watch birds, then snuggle with a family of humans.

The costumed dog is Sesame (#163813), a 5-year-old girl who, the SPCA says, “didn’t have the best life” before coming to the shelter. Shes’ still working on adapting to new sitiuations, but, as you can see, she can be adorable in a seasonal costume. Here “autobiography” on the SPCA adoptables site quotes Sesame as writing, “I have discovered taht I love snuggling and TV.” (She’s with a foster, so if you’d like to meet her, email foster@spca.org.)
And this may be the happiest face on any three-legged dog in town. That is Garrus (#139299), a Pittie mix wo is nearly 5 years old and currently residents at the SPCA’s Jan Rees-Jones Animal Care Center alongside I-30 in West Dallas. His bio reads that this “sweet, frendly and playful” fellow dislikes it “when people think I’ not able to do stuff just because I’m missing a leg. I’m just as capable as any other dog.” 
Go to spca.org to see how to adopt these or any other animal in the care of the SPCA.
SOME FACES IN WILMER
The small city shelter at Wilmer, Texas, has more animals than a small city shelter needs. So, advocates Laura Macias and Leighann Hayden are working to give publicity to the overloaded shelter so it won’t just line lovely animals up for the final needle. 
Here’s the subject line on the latest appeal for Wilmer’s canines: “SWEET DOGS HAVE NO INTEREST AT ALL AND SHELTER FILLING UP FAST!!!!”
We cited Cindy Lou (left) in Tuesday’s report — she’s the dog who looks like the murdered dog Mercy who inspired the DA’s office under Craig Watkins to get tough on animal abuse cases.
You can’t save Mercy, but in Mercy’s honor you can save Cindy Lou.

Other animals awaiting rescue or the needle at Wilmer include Ashlie, who had puppies recently and “walked up to someone seemingly wanting help but no puppies could be located. She seems very well socialized and is very sweet and loving.”

Justin is the neutered Bulldog mix who gets along with dogs and humans. He was a stray. Laura’s appeal read, “Interestingly, we were able to locate the the owner that had him chipped, as well as this person's mother, and sadly neither of them chose to call back.  We were able to tell via Facebook that the person's whose name he was chipped under moved away from Dallas at least 9 months ago, so perhaps they had given him to someone else.”
And we’ve featured both Hayden, the stray Earhound, and Kira the Husky girl before. Inexpicably nobody has asked about adopting or rescuing these great faces. 
Be ashamed to think that such great faces are gone because no humans responded to the appeals to save their lives.
To ask how you can help these babies, call or text Laura at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.


POST 10 P.M. TUESDAY ADDITION:
THREE SUDDENLY 'CODE RED'

Our Mesquite tipster, the shelter's volunteer biographer Judi Brown, sent these three updates late Tuesday evening. Tyson (35258603), Ray (40170827) and Juliet (40284885) all are on the Code Red list now.
Tyson, the 53-pound, fixed Pittie Mix, is making a return to Code Red. "He is a lover of people. He's very affectionate. When I sat down, he climbed on my lap," Judi wrote, "He loves to give bearhugs."
Ten-year-old Shiba Inu/Welsh Corgi mix Ray suddenly is on the Code Red list -- he's the dog who wound up in quarantine because he nipped his rescuer. His fright has subsided. He has a sweet nature but, Judi writes, "He doesn't present well in the kennel as he lays down in a depressed manner and trembles."
Juliet, a 3- or 4-year-old Hound/Retriever mix was a stray. She sits for treats, is "very friendly and gives a lot of kisses. ... Just being around her was uplifting."
To save these three, call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com. It's all up to human hearts.
CONTEMPLATIONS

EARTHLINGS, BEAGLE & CHEVYS
—Here’s“An open letter to the Citizens of Earth.” It reads: “Your animal shelters are loaded up for the holidays. You do not have to be a genius to know you can go to a shelter, adopt an animal, save a life and simultaneously gain a friend and enjoy the admiration of your fellow Earthlings. For crying out loud, no matter what part of the country you’re in, there’s a shelter near you with an animal who needs help.” We wrote that back in December, 2010. No change, right? 

— Our pal Lisa Konkoly Buick’s note read, “Something to cheer us up” and she was right. Click on this Facebook LINK and enjoy the Beagle surprise!
—On Tuesday, I got an email with this subject line: “Larry, we miss you. Your friend, Chevy.” The email contained links to a lot of new Chevrolets for sale.
I don’t know if this is a response to presidential criticism or to a corporate desire to make connections with previous customers — but GM must have a really big historical file cabinet because the last time I bought a Chevy was in 1971 and I bitterly traded a nearly new 1970 Malibu (Fathom Blue with a white vinyl top, white interior and a 350-cubic inch engine -- the one in the photo has only a lamentable 307) for a 4-cylinder 1971 Chevy Vega, dark green, no air-conditioning, two-doors and a hatchback. We’d just had unexpected twins and needed to cut expenses. 
If the Vega had not required such dramatic repair as a blown aluminum engine, perhaps the theory of economy would have held water, held water better than the engine did.
I’m wondering if Chevy is trying to get me and other Vega victims to buy a Vintage Vega — they probably have thousands of unsold Vegas stored in warehouses around the country. To get the deal, all we’ll have to do is demonstrate our blown Vega engine experience. Probably that will just take a note witnessed by notary public and a sentence describing the disgust we felt standing on the side of a road next to a sizzling engine and an ugly car. Of course, GM might reject our appeal with this explanation: “You do not qualify for our Vintage Vega program. If you can contain your disgust with a Vega to just one sentence, you, sir, obviously did not own a Vega.”
—- Offer a hot car comment or lament by clicking below or emailing dallrp@aol.com and try not to declare, “You bought a Vega? Were you insane!” —-

A MERCY-TYPE DOG, MAZIE'S AMBITION, SOME ADOPTABLES, MOVIES & MEMORY LANE

EDITION OF TUESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2018 [PetPowellPress] I’m trying to get into the Christmas mood — I realize we’re close to the big day. I’m still shopping. My company doesn’t give Christmas bonuses. But we do get free kittens and pups every now and then. All full up this year, however. That’s formerly feral kitten Monet demonstrating her Yuletide glow.
SOME RESCUE NEWS
AT MAZIE’S MISSION
This’ll be news to some people though it won’t be surprise to anyone who’s ever paid attention to the long-term plans of Mazie’s Mission! Mazie’s Mission’s non-profit rescue clinic in Frisco is moving to Carrollton. The explanation at www.maziesmission.org reads, “We’re moving to a bigger and better hospital in Carrollton, where we will have twice as much space to help save over twice as many animals.” Mazie’s Mission is trying to raise $65,000 to make this move smooth and easy — the campaign is called "Drive for 65.” That funding will help with “construction and new equipment costs associated with our fantastic new facility.” Read all about it at maziesmission.org.
Just in case you’re in need of a certifiable Earhound, this girl Nubs is available for adoption. Mazie’s says, “She was born missing all of her toes on her right foot, and she is completely missing the lower part of her left leg. She does not let this slow her down.” Mazie’s Mission, fyi, will provide Nubs’ first prosthetic limb for that missing back left foot. 

A FACE OF TODAY
AND A FACE OF YEARS AGO
Laura Macias and Leighann Hayden work so hard to save adoptable animals who are in the Wilmer Animal Shelter.
On Monday, I opened their latest appeal and was stunned to see this dog’s face. 
It was like looking back in history to me. And, I think some of you may get that same feeling when you see this photograph of the late dog Mercy. It was in 2006 that a creep stabbed his dog Mercy because she wouldn’t breed and set her on fire in Carrollton.
 The great Jonnie England, founder and then-president of Operation Kindness, immediately got involved in trying to save this girl’s life. But the villain had been too thorough on damaging this young girl. After several painful days and the winning of many hearts, Mercy died. The creep went to jail.
All of that rushed back through my brain when I saw the photo of Cindy Lou, a girl awaiting either rescue, adoption or the needle at the Wilmer shelter. To save her life — perhaps as a tribute to a dog whose death meant a lot to so many — get in touch with Laura by calling or texting her at 214-949-2726 or emailing cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.
[LARRY ASIDE: We can’t go back in time and save a dog murdered by a misguided thug, but we can stand up in the present and save more and more animals from the needle. Dead is still dead and there’s no coming back from that. We humans have a lot to answer for because the don’t-care hearts prevail so darned frequently.]
CONTEMPLATIONS:
TWO DOGS NOTES & A CAT
We opened an email from Plano Profile Monday to learn that there’s a movie theater in Plano that accepts dogs as customers. Here’s the LINK  to the story. The theater doesn’t have a website that we could find, but it’s at 1192 Greenway Drive in Plano and the phone number is 469-431-1077. K9 Cinemas is for well-behaved people and well-behaved dogs who enjoy being together for a motion picture. The may prove to be the most well-mannered movie audience since the advent of multiplexes. Not sure how our dogs would react to being in a movie theater, but the short ones know how to bark “Quiet! Hush!” and the tall ones agree that when it comes to movie popcorn, anything more than 50 cents is too much. … Cats at a movie theater? “Puhleeeze,” purrs my mealticket, the front porch feral Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson in a scene from her film Cat Fu At Midnight. She says, “We’re IN the movies, not AT the movies.” ...Speaking of dogs, once I was walking my ultra peaceful Great Dane mix Hambone Jack in a city park years and years ago when I gently cautioned a young man with an unleashed Boxer. “Your dog needs to be leashed,” I gently said. “You don’t want it to get hurt.” He “bowed up” and bristled, “You threatening my dog.” In my best fatherly tone I replied, “No, dumbass, I’m trying to keep him safe.” He sort of realized I was a “helper” when I spoke boldly. Later I asked myself, “What were you thinkin’, dumbass?” (Pardon the usage twice of my entirely appropriate French.) I haven’t been in a fight since junior high and the last time anybody beat on me savagely was when I was an ambulance attendant and we were called to help a well-to-do guy put his drunken, out-of-control, 5-foot-4, 100-pound wife into a treatment facility. Our job was to drive her to the place. Getting her onto the stretcher voluntarily didn’t work. She won the fight — me and my buddy were pretty much knocked around and had to replace our ripped up shirts. Bless her heart. I had more sympathy for her than for us — and periodically I think about that day and my first encounter with the “iron will” of people who needed help. Where ever she is, God bless her. And God bless that knucklehead who had the Boxer at the park. Thanks for indulging my trip down memory lane.
—- To offer an opinion or to be aghast, click on “comment” below or email dallrp@aol.com. —-

HAPPINESS IS A WARM CRITTER -- MOVE BEYOND THE COWBOY GAME AND HELP SOME ANIMALS

EDITION OF MONDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2018 [PetPowellPress] The world of today is nothing like the world of yesterday. Well, maybe a little. The Texas Rangers still have no pitching and the Dallas Cowboys, well…That is a photo of Porche Noel who, when Philadelphia tied the game up with mere minutes left, grimaced, turned around in the recliner. Actual fact. She took this pose pointing away from the TV. I suspect she was not alone in the viewing audience. I didn't see what it looked like in the owner's box. In overtime, the owner's box was suddenly an explosion of glee, 29-23. Luck? Luck? Luck.  ...Let’s just move on…That happy dog? Why, that is Briggs, a resident of Dallas Animal Services and he was featured on the DAS Facebook page Sunday afternoon -- not sure he watched the game, but he can grin. “Briggs (A1044134) lights up whenever he sees people and nuzzles your hand if you stop petting him.” Go to dallasanimalservices.org to see how to adopt Briggs. He wasn’t listed among the 225 dogs on the computer roster Sunday (so we have no idea how old he is!), but he was on the DAS Facebook page. This cat, however, WAS among the 68 DAS cats listed online. Violante (A1050689) is about about 2, DAS says. That means she’s available for $5 — any animal 6 months and older at DAS is a $5 adoption in this shelter special.
THE BIG TRAP
In case you didn’t see this dog on Jean-Paul “J-P” Bonnelly’s Facebook page Saturday, he explained, “Got called to help catch this lovely lady. Picked up my catchin’ buddy, Susan Jenssen, and we were off…
"
The result is a rainy-day capture HERE.  Fascinating video for those of us who “capture” our neighborhood strays by walking out onto the front porch and finding them waiting for us. The Facebook page is HERE.
TWO IN DENTON
Last week, thanks to the great Amy Poskey, we learned of two senior dogs needing help in the Denton McNatt Animal Shelter. Over the weekend we got this note from Amy: “ELLIE & ABUELO HAVE LEFT THE BUILDING!!! 
"FRIENDS OF HOMELESS ANIMALS RESCUE PULLED THESE TWO ANGELS...!!!  THANK YOU FOHA!!!  MAKES MY HEART SING!!!”


MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE:
 EARHOUND,
BIG GUY & DOG SANS TAIL
Clearly, Chestnut, the 9-month-old described as a “Chesapeake Retriever Mix” is actually a certified Earhound. Look at those satellite dishes! Came in as a stay on December 1. Our reliable source, the volunteer biographer at Mesquite Animal Services, Judi Brown, says that the dog with the “hazel eyes and quirky, perky ears” is a bit timid but warms up and wags his tail. Chestnut (40281628) is a 34-pounder. Judi wrote,
‘He found a ball on his own. He chased it but did not bring it back to me. Could you teach him to do that? He also loves blankets. When in the laundry room he went and got several off the stack to curl up on.” [LARRY ASIDE: It was the line about getting his own blankets that would have sent me to Mesquite to get this baby if we didn’t already have the limit on blanket-pulling mutts at our house!]
Chaparro (37867448) is a 68-pound Pittie mix who was surrendered on December 5 “because he escapes.” [LARRY ASIDE: Please, ignore your desire to point out that it's up to the humans to properly fence the dog. Also you have to do is be smarter than the dog…right?] Chaparro is “very calm and gentle and content to just lay by your feet,” Judi writes and adds that Chaparro is also become a favorite of Mesquite’s field officers, too.

And that bring us to spayed, 3-year-old tail-free Pittie mix Sissy (40318876), surrendered on December 6. Judi writes that the people “who surrendered her had found her and kept her for a month looking for the owners to no avail. They had nothing but nice things to say about her.” She likes kids and loves to cuddle.

So, for this Monday edition, there are three of many dogs available at the Mesquite Animal Shelter. To ask about them, call 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com. 
At the Mesquite website HERE you can see many other available adorables including this year-old girl (40150369) Purrtricia who clearly has the symbol of a cat between her eyes. Stare right between her eyes and you can see the outline of the cat! Fascinating.

CONTEMPLATIONS

SCOOTERS, DOG HAIR & CAMERON DIAZ
Anybody else find themselves irritated by an electric scooter? One of our ol’ newspaper pals in San Antonio, the great Liz Zavala, wrote this on Facebook: “Dear Stupid Scooter Riders: The center stripe is meant to separate the lanes of traffic, not provide you with a tightrope opportunity. Follow the rules of the road and don’t make me a killer today.” Sage advice, scooterheads. It’s not just you who gets hurt when you do something stupid. …. Like most of you, we get a lot of “gift advice” in the email inbox this time of year. Here’s one of our favorite shirt offerings — might be sold out, but the link is HERE. Click on the picture to make it big enough to read -- "Dog Hair" and "Glitter" are a natural fit. … We were killing some time over the weekend watching (for the "severalth" time) Knight and Day, the Tom Cruise/Cameron Diaz action/comedy from 2010. She made a lot of entertaining films after that, but nothing since 2014 and I said to my filmfunspouse Martha, “I hate it that she’s retired” [see the Variety story from earlier this year] and Martha replied, “Yeah, she’s kind of a refreshing actress.” So, there’s the challenge, filmfans. Either talk Cameron Diaz into returning to the screen or, unabled to pinpoint another “refreshing actress,” quit watching movies. You could have a worse assignment — there are job openings at the White House.
—- To offer opinions, solutions or cranky comebacks, click on “comment” below or email dallrp@aol.com. —-

GEORGIA AND HER BABIES -- THE KIDS ALREADY KNOW HOW TO SLEEP!

This edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap focuses its spotlight on what is commonly known as a “pile of puppies.”
This pile is composed of the 4 boys and 2 girls birthed by Georgia. [FYI: This edition is being presented in the font of "Georgia" in her honor!]
Clearly the little week-old puppies know how to pile up and sleep. Or, in the next photo, snuggle up to Mom and sleep.
You may recall our initial stories about this girl. We got the details from Stephen Foster, president and founder of DFW’s Forgotten Friends.  That organization took over care of the still- pregnant Georgia after she was captured by Heaven’s Helpers. She’d been living on the side of a 2-lane road near Mansfield and, yes, she’d been hit by a car at some point and suffered a broken leg which healed poorly.
Still, as you can see in that opening photo of the family, Georgia can smile! And Stephen’s caption read, “Get ready people. It's only getting cuter from this point on. Georgia had to make sure her puppies were giving their best pose for the camera.”
FYI: Stephen gave photographer Melody Hamilton the “heartfelt thanks” for her work with the dogs and the lens.]
 The report from Stephen reads, “Now that Georgia has had those little stinkers, she's eating a ton more food. Mom dogs tend to loose weight because everything they eat goes to produce milk. For that reason I've increased her food intake 5 fold. Instead of 2 cans and a full bowl of dry she now eats 10 cans a day with her dry. She is doing really good on the Redford canned food. If you're looking for anything to send my way for Georgia and her pups I'm stocking up on pee pads and Redford canned.”

And there may be an opportunity for everyone to help with these dogs in a very specific way. Stephen wrote, “We have a new fundraiser coming in the next few days. Only this one gives you a chance to be more of a part of the decisions of the rescue besides just donating a few bucks. Would you donate to get the opportunity to name one of Georgia's 6 puppies? Let us know.”

You can follow Georgia, the pups and Stephen on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/sfoster62.

Hard to pick a favorite photo from among these, but we do like this one with the little dog wrapped in Stephen’s hands and his caption is indicative of a rescuer’s heart:  “I love my life.”
Kind of makes you ol’ rescuers tear up a bit, doesn’t it?

[SEND US YOUR SNOOZER PHOTOS! Readlarrypowell.com loves to post photos of sleeping dogs, napping cats or any other slumbering critters who take up space on your couches, chairs, beds, floors or laps. Even under or in the holiday decorations. Send photos and info to dallrp@aol.com. We post these photos in Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap to inspire other people to open their hearts and homes to animals and to encourage insomniacs to have faith that they, too, can get some sleep if they can just find a way to wiggle into a comfy pile of puppies.]

--- To offer an ooooh or an aaaaahh click on "comment" below or email dallrp@aol.com. ---

FRIDAY A.M. EXTRA: WILMER CLOCK TICKING

That's Hayden the Earhound and Kira the Husky.
They are two of many Wilmer Animal Shelter residents facing a quick decision on their fates because the low-human traffic shelter has lots of paw traffic.
To help make it two-way paw traffic, instead of a one-way walk to the needle room, get involved with helping the small shelter move its animals to safety via adoption or rescue.
Call or text Laura Macias at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.
Here is a LINK  to the email with photos and brief bios of the many dogs at peril in Wilmer. The town is about 20 seconds south of Dallas on I-45 and the animals come from all over that area, including the notorious Dowdy Ferry Road dumping area. These dogs are social, loving and betrayed by humans.
Angelic hearts are needed to take up the slack for the heartless. That's the way it works. First save the dogs. Then pray for the bad guys -- or get a 2018 model of the Readlarrypowell.com Two-by-Four of Enlightenment and ....wait. Just help the dogs. Those humans are on their own.
--- To offer advice, a solution or express well-reasoned anger at the don't-care humans, click on 'comment' below or email dallrp@aol.com. ---

 

BRIEF NOTES; DOGS AND CATS; KINDER/GENTLER PEOPLE NEEDED TO HELP ANIMALS

EDITION OF FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2018 [PetPowellPress] — First we need to recognize that this is Pearl Harbor Day — I hope you studied it in history. In case you missed it in class or your public school ignored history, there are still books about the war and the aftermath — what? Yes, in libraries. In book stores. And on-line. It’s hard to remain ignorant in America, but we do have some overachievers.
LET’S TALK TWO SENIOR DOGS
A note arrived late Thursday evening about two “senior angels” who need homes for Christmas, according to the animal advocate/rescuer Amy Poskey.
 Both dogs are in Denton’s McNatt Animal Shelter.
Ellie (#79521) is a rescue-only Cocker Spaniel mix. She’s not the young pup she once was and the people who surrendered her said they were “moving and couldn’t take her with them,” according to the note. It also reads, “Ellie is blind and approximately 10-16 years young.” She’s got a heart murmur, teeth that are broken or missing, dermatitis from a flea allergy, dry eye — but is heartworm negative. Too old to spay. But not too old to be a sweet dog in a kinder, gentler home.
Abuelo (79533) is — you’ll love this description — “a Senior Terrier mixed with adorable, not to mention lots of sweetness.” The heartworm negative dog is available to a kinder, gentler family.
The McNatt Animal Care and Adoption Center is at 3717 N. Elm St. in Denton For these dogs, email gayla.nelsen@cityofdenton.com, paul.o’neill@cityofdenton.com, dentonshelterdogs@yahoo.com, and/or dentonanimalservices@yahoo.com. Call the shelter at 940-349-7594.

A KINDER, GENTLER BRIEF
This edition is a collection of briefs. Wait. I meant “brief items.” Not “briefs. Though there are plenty of “briefs” commercials on TV this yuletide. Here’s a brief note now: I’ve always thought animal rescuers and advocates represent the best of a “kinder, gentler America.” Don’t even bother to argue my assertion. We all know there are aberrations, but we forgive them. Why? Because we’re kinder and gentler. And, oh, yeah, the kinder/gentler Friends of the Animals Spay Neuter Clinic in Gun Barrel City is hosting a "low-cost vaccinations, microchipping, heartworm-testing and other non-surgical" animal needs from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday. Do something kinder/gentler for your dog or cat.
THREE WAITING IN MESQUITE
WHERE THE NEEDLES WAITS, TOO
You can’t blame shelter workers for euthanasia lists. It’s the not kinder/not gentler people who build up the unwanted animal population throughout North Texas.  Good people try to defeat the ignorants and the don’t-cares every day.

Here are three dogs whose bios we got courtesy of Judi Brown, the volunteer who writes them to try to save their lives. You have to have a resilient heart to meet a dog, get to know a dog, then write about the dog while all the time the clock is ticking like a major villain in a too-real movie.

RAY? He’s a 10-year-old Shiba Inu/Welsh Corgi mix who arrived as a stay on November 14. It wasn’t a pleasant event. He had to be caught. A police officer had managed to get the little guy, but, as is the case sometimes, Ray bit the hand that saved him — just a finger. But the handsome guy with the corkscrew tail wound up in quarantine.
Judi writes that he’s sweet but “he doesn’t present well in the kennel as he lays down in a depressed manner and trembles. Who can blame him? No dog belongs in a shelter much less a senior! He’s got the very beginning of cataracts but it doesn’t seem to affect his mobility. In fact, he was very alert and investigated the whole yard. He navigated well on a leash. Ray appears to be house-trained. My manager said he does circle his food which may be a sign of a neurological condition or just a quirk.” The 40-pound dog is #40170827 in the shelter. Remember that number.
JULIET? She’s a 42-pound, 3- or 4-year-old hound/retriever mix, a stray who arrived on December 1. Judi describes her as “an extremely happy girl” who is “very friendly and gives lots of kisses.” She also has a ultra waggy tail and, Judi writes, “Just being around her was uplifting.” Her number is 40284885. 

DAISY, also a stray, is around 6 or 7 and just had a litter. Suddenly, after being a mommy, she’s at a shelter -- alone, except for other out-of-luck animals. Motivated by treats. Weighs 48 pounds and her number is 40270181.

Here’s the deal: Use those numbers when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com to tag to ask about adopting any of these animals. See more adoptable adorables from Mesquite at
https://www.cityofmesquite.com/1239/Animals-in-the-Shelter.
AN OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN
Spotted this on the Just Save the Dog Facebook page. Go HERE and (thanks to the heads-up from noted kinder/gentler rescuer/advocate Beverly Fyfe) you’ll see how to attend a special Animal Law 101 seminar/class taught by the great Randy Turner. The event is scheduled Friday, Dec. 14 — 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Tarrant County Bar Association. Enrollment is $200. It’s comprehensive and you don’t have to be a lawyer to attend.  Topic include defending animal rights activists, getting non-profit certification for rescue groups, etc. It’s “The Nuts & Bolts of Practicing Animal Law.”

HERE’S A GREAT CAT NOTE
I LIFTED FROM DAS’ FACEBOOK PAGE
In the area of cats, we endorse this news from Dallas Animal Services and the Dallas Police Department.

CONTEMPLATIONS
ROBOT CALLS; TV REBOOTS; WHERE DO WE START WITH KINDER/GENTLER?
Been getting calls that begin “Our records indicate you are interested in more affordable health care” — so I ask, “What records?” and the robot hangs up on me. A few calls later, I work my way through the system to a live person and I ask, “What records?” and the HUMAN hangs up on me. I think he’s being held captive by Rebel Robots…
I kind of like the new Magnum P.I., really like Bull and continue to be mystified by the soon-to-be-gone reboot of Murphy Brown. Perhaps other reboot plans for once-beloved shows should be forgotten and new brains should create new shows. I’ve got an idea for a story about a woman who divorces a warlock, then by accident married another warlock and doesn’t know it. We’ll call it Rewitched....
Kinder, gentler — what a great goal. Where do we start in 2018? Come on now, be kind.
—- To offer an opinion, advice, a solution or a Bronx cheer, click on “comment” below or email dallrp@aol.com. —-

TYSON--PERHAPS HIS FINAL CHANCE...

This note about a dog named Tyson arrived overnight and he has only until 11 a.m. on Thursday at the Mesquite Animal Shelter.
His story is not unheard of in North Texas or, probably, anywhere else. We got it from Judi Brown, the volunteer Mesquite biographer She's met this dog, sat with this dog in the shelter and knows him. She wrote:
"CODE RED RESCUE ONLY for Thursday 11:00. This will probably be his last chance as he’s been on the code red list before. He is really sweet and friendly with people. He waits his kennel and is so excited when someone comes by as he is still hopeful. Please don’t let him down.
"Tyson came in with another dog named Zeus. They got along beautifully for years and then just recently jumped the fence and attacked the neighbor's dogs. Both the neighbor's dogs were badly injured. For this reason Tyson needs to be the only pet in the house unless he was adopted with Zeus. Tyson is a five-year-old handsome terrier pit mix that was owner-surrendered on 11/19 .
"He is a lover of people. He’s very affectionate. When I sit down he climbed on my lap. He loves to give bearhugs. He is strong so he could be over bearing with young children. He is highly motivated by treats and will follow you around in anticipation of getting one. Tyson weighs 53 pounds. Bonus: he is FIXED!" Call 972–216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com to tag Tyson. Judi writes, "Type tag in the subject line along with ID 35258603 to ensure proper tagging. Thank you."
[LARRY ASIDE: Tyson isn't the only Code Red dog at Mesquite. But his story is just so awful. He clearly knows love and how to show affection. But, goodness, how in the world can life go on for him unless there is an understanding, kind human heart who'll make him a personal project. Bless Tyson. Bless the human who says, "I can love this dog."]

OLD DOG, YOUNG CATS, BAKED GOODS (OH, MY!) AND CONTEMPLATIONS

EDITION OF THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018 [PetPowellPress] Holiday Insights says that December 6 is St. Nicholas Day, honoring the Greek Catholic bishop who’s life evolved into Santa Claus. December 6 is also “Mitten Tree Day,” probably never celebrated in the Dallas/Fort Worth Mittenlesstroplex. It’s also Put On Your Own Shoes Day — Holiday Insights has no explanation for that day and there is no such day celebrated except, perhaps, by the famed Palessi of California.
That dog with the “Now what is going to happen?” look? We’ll explain the plight. Please read on.
FOR THE 11TH PRESENTATION;

THE EXTREME BAKE SALE
Our baked goods tipster Corby Bryant promises that this year’s 11th annual Bakers For In-Sync Exotics baked goods and craft sale is going to be "THE Extreme Bake Sale." It's scheduled from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, December 17.
 The sale site is in the first floor lobby of the 20-story glass building north of Mockingbird State at 5910 N. Central Expressway. craft sale benefiting In-Sync Exotics is going to be the Extreme Bake Sale.”
Corby says that “we are pulling out all of the stops to make this the biggest WOW of all our bake sales since 2007. … We are going to have more goodies and handcrafted gift items than ever before…” [FYI: The Bakers say all sales are “matched dollar for dollar and 100% of proceeds go to the cats at In-Sync Exotics in Wylie.]
If you click HERE  you’ll see the list of baked items. And, FYI, at the sale, they’ll accept “cash, checks and credit cards.” Corby, fyi, is the Director of Accounting and Mineral Manager for Venable Royalty, Ltd. and Venable Oil, Ltd., LLP. The Venable people have long been supportive of this effort to help the “70+ lions, tigers, lynxes, servals, leopards, bobcats, lemurs, cougars and ocelot who call In-Sync their furever home.” (See the lineup and read about the shelter at insyncexotics.org. That great face on the relaxing Tiger belongs to Amol.]
[LARRY ASIDE: I snuck a look at the assorted baked goods and I’m already fixated on these: Sea Salt Caramel Shortbread Bars, Banana Cream White Chocolate Cookies, Flaming Hot Peanut Brittle — oh and three kinds of biscuits including Sharp Cheddar Garlic Sourdough Biscuits. I really must stop daydreaming.]
OL’ MAN AL
This guy is at the Lake Dallas Animal Shelter, according to an appeal on his behalf from our longtime tipster Amy Poskey. He can be yours for $50, according the shelter listing.
 Amy’s note reads, “OL’ MAN AL is a senior male Pittie who was brought to the shelter with a heavy chain around his neck. He is incredibly affectionate and just wants a home he can lay around in and enjoy the company of his people.  Bless his heart, he just wants to be loved.  OL’ MAN AL is friendly with people (including children), dogs AND even cats!   He also seems to be potty trained cuz he keeps his room at the shelter clean. Poor baby is HW+ so the shelter has started him on 30 days of Doxi and given him a few months of Advantage Multi for the heartworms.” 
To help Ol’ Man Al, contact Julien Peralta at jperalta@lakedallaspd.org or Cindy Uber at cuber@lakedallaspd.org. The shelter is at 687 N. Lakeview in Lake Dallas. Call 940-497-7090.
TWO CATS
WITH LAKE CONNECTIONS
We got tips on two cats from Sydney Busch, our reliable tipster with the Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake, the non-profit that operates the world’s most successful spay/neuter clinic at Gun Barrel City, Texas.
The “gorgeous, huge, gray kitty needs a new family, please” the subject line read. 
Why? “He is being bullied by the older cat at his current home — the family feels he would do better somewhere else. He is now neutered and vaccinated and ready for his new adventure.” (Call John at 903-203-5191 or email blueyonder64@gmail.com.)

Then there’s this “teenage kitty” who is “now spayed, vaccinated and ready to take on her new family. She is only 6 months old so would adapt to a new situation quickly, including being a great barn cat.” (To ask about this teenager, call 972-754-9945 or email kelly.delaney@kempisd.org.


THE FACES OF WILMER
AND THE FATES OF THE FACES
Here we go again with another appeal for two very expressive dogs currently awaiting the needle — or life-saving rescue — at the small, low human traffic Wilmer Animal Shelter south of Dallas on I-45.
To help save these dogs call or text Laura Macias at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.

Justin is the neutered, microchipped Bulldog mix described as “SO cute and SO Sweet and lovable.  Loves everyone and everything.  Did really great with another girl dog there are the shelter.  He is just a beautiful guy that is so deserving.  Found out and about.  Desperately needs someone.   Please help save him! He is such a sweet lovable boy and he would be such a great addition to any family.”


Then, there is this “stunningly beautiful” Pittie mix Ashlie. “She has had puppies recently and walked up to someone seemingly wanting help but no puppies could be located.  She seems very well-socialized and is very sweet and loving.  So very deserving of a great home.”

CONTEMPLATIONS
TUNA, THE ORIGINAL FUNNY SIMPSON AND SHOES
The plummeting sale of canned tuna is being blamed on Millennials as is the drop in sale of processed cheese, i.e., American cheese. Heard that on the radio Wednesday. Our theory is Millennials quit tuna because it tastes lousy. And the cheese drop is probably because old people (beyond 25) have been advised by their docs to lay off the sodium and dodge the cholesterol. I speak from experience. Here’s the story.
President George H.W. Bush’s service at the National Cathedral made me laugh and tear up. And it showed off the “original funny Simpson,” Sen. Alan K. Simpson, R-Wyo., who served 1979-97 -- The Simpsons debuted on the Tracey Ullman Show in 1987 and continue to hold office, er, be broadcast. 
Sen. Simpson’s great lines included, “Humor is the universal solvent against the abrasiveness of life.” |
He also said, “Those that travel the high road of humility in Washington, D.C., are not bothered by heavy traffic.”
And, here’s the link to an explanation of the opening note about Palessi of California. Cracks me up. My happiest shoes are a 10-year-old pair of cross-trainers with an odor that attracts passing dogs on the Kiest Park track. At least I think it’s the shoes that get their attention.
—- To offer advice, click on “comment” below or email dallrp@aol.com. —-

GEORGIA DELIVERS; BIG SALE AT DAS; CONTEMPLATING FOR YULE

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2018 [PetPowellPress] We have a few notes to explore in this mid-week edition. We have a report on Georgia’s deliveries — you may recall her from Monday’s edition. And we have some notes about dogs and cats born only spend their entire lives waiting for rescue, adoption or something else at a shelter that buys euthanasia juice in bulk.
And, for the sake of the future of photographic mood artistry (please chuckle), you see here two views of the “scratch tunnel” that my ThoughtfulSpouse Martha bought the cats. 
The Senator enjoys the tunnel — says it reminds him of his time in the Diplomatic Corps when he was posted to England and traveled to France on a regular basis via the Chunnel. 
From behind, he appears to be very comfortable. From the front, he appears to be elated. If I can find a big-enough cardboard box, I’m going to give “Yuletide Tunnel Relaxation Therapy” a shot. All you need is exterior twinkle lights and interior speakers playing Christmas instrumentals on low. Yes, now and then I’m envious of The Senator.

REMEMBER, THE DAS
HAS A $5 SPECIAL
We went online to see these animals with a need for a homes. They’re all waiting at Dallas Animal Services’ big shelter at I-30 and Westmoreland. You can see these animals and many others at the shelters. Or you can go online at dallasanimalservices.org. You’ll see the details for the adoption process.
One of the things that happens to some people is they start looking at the animals in this shelter (or any other shelter) and they begin to wonder, “Why is that dog in here?” and “Why is that cat not in somebody’s lap?”
The $5 special at DAS is for animals over 6 months old. All of these animals qualify for that special adoption rate.
Of course, as you can see from that little bit of artistic information, the City of Dallas continues to provide a robust inventory for the shelter. It’s not just failure to spay and neuter that fills up the shelter, it’s failure to properly care for dogs and cats and failure to be kind to the animals people said they'd always love. 
Yes, this shelter has a robust population because some humans have a lackluster heart. Got to change the hearts, right?
THE ADVENTURE
WITH GEORGIA
You may remember Monday’s report about expectant Georgia, the dog who was rescued from the side of the road near Mansfield. Heaven’s Helpers finally caught the girl and DFW’s Furgotten Friends stepped up to foster her through her pregnancy.
 How are things going? Stephen Foster of DFW’s Furgotten Friends summed it up perfectly: “A little tired, but now the cute puppy fun begins.” 
Yep, Georgia delivered — four boys and two girls. In describing the photo of Mom and her babies, Stephen wrote, “We have four boys and two girls. Don’t ask which is which right now.”
There was a reminder of how important proper care is for a pregnant dog. The firstborn, tiny Uno, did not come into the world in the best of ways and, as so often happen when Momma Dog doesn’t get proper care, did not survive.
On Stephen’s Facebook page you can see photographs and videos of Georgia tending to the babies.
And this link takes you right to a video of some very hungry little puppies and Georgia doing what Momma Dogs are known for doing. Tending to the babies. Get in touch with Stephen to see how you can help Georgia and her family.
[LARRY ASIDE: Fostering puppies is a joy. And, the memory of the pups will linger with you for as long as you can draw a lucid breath. Now and then, the puppy you foster becomes the puppy you keep. That’s a good deal, too. Also works with kittens. We’ve fostered both through the years. Fostered adult dogs and cats, too. It improves the beat of your heart.]
CONTEMPLATIONS

SLEEP, OLD SAP AND FUNNY LINE
I’m still fascinated by the sleep study that says dogs are a great comfort to sleeping women — it’s a “get some sleep” thing. Mind this, though: As a veteran father and cohabitator with canines and felines, let me just declare this truth: Humans lose more sleep with teenagers in the house or out of the house than they do with a restless dog or midnight mewing cat in the bed. It's a parenting thing. There's no relief, but there is karma.
A DAD GETS SAPPY AT CHRISTMAS…I walked into a big store last week and the first thing I saw was a display with stacks of toddler-sized cars — the kind a little smiling kid sits in and pedals. One style is red, the other style is blue.
And the first thing I thought was, “Perfect for the boys. I’ll get one of each. Red and blue caps, too.” My little boys Bret and Bart — the twins. Bart loves red; Bret loves blue. And then I remembered my toddlers are 47 now, still twins, still looking alike, still proprietors of my heart.
 Pardon me while I dab my eyes again. I’m an ol’ sap for my kids. Kids and critters. Cherish ‘em all.
 Bart still loves red. Bret still loves blue. Bret drives a shiny blue pickup. Bart’s married to a redhead. Life works out now and then.
AND THEN I SAW THIS YULETIDE HEADLINE in The Big Online Paper Downtown and sent it to Bart: “Mother shoots son who pulled out samurai sword during argument, Fort Worth police say."  Bart, the father of two daughters and a son, replied, “Don’t bring a knife to a gunfight.” I laughed out loud and thought, “I may get him that little red car after all.”
—- To offer parenting advice or happy solutions for animals, click on ‘comment’ below or email dallrp@aol.com. —-

AN ACT OF KINDNESS; PLANNING AHEAD; AND THE SULLY PHOTO WITH 41

EDITION OF TUESDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2018 [PetPowellPress] The stories of dogs and cats are so often the stories of people, don’t you think? We’ll explore that today with the story of an “act of kindness.”
Oh, and weren't you amused last week to see how many people treated the report that women sleep better next to a dog as a “discovery”
— at our house, we read that report as a confirmation.
We believe there is some sort of “Sleep Exchange Program” at work. Now and then a dog will nod off on the couch and not come to bed, but a cat, sensing a human need, will fling him- or herself onto the bed in the dog’s spot. (On Sunday, as my comfyslumberspouse Martha enjoyed a nap in the recliner, I snapped this photo of The Senator preparing to “tag” out so a dog could take his place while Martha slept on, oblivious to the trade-off and to the score in any football game blaring across the room. She was quite happy. And, yes, so was The Senator. He is a baseball fan.)
THE DOG IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Some people would describe this as a “random act of kindness” but, in reality, it’s not random. Al Gomez is a kind guy all the time. So it’s more of a “Determined Act of Kindness.”
We’ve written about him and his wife Cindy and their dogs and her sister Diane Combs (our dear friend and confidant) and her dogs for years. Al and Cindy live next door to Diane in North Dallas.

Diane tipped us to this latest wonderful act by Al. She wrote that at lunch with Cindy and Al “they were telling me about a Great Pyrenees in our neighborhood who Al passes when on walks with their own dogs.  He said he couldn't help but notice how matted this dog was.  He had talked to the owners who he said were very nice and appeared to love the dog.
“Al asked them if they'd mind if he took the dog to Al and Cindy’s dogs’ vet for a bath and a shave.  Al offered to pay for it. They agreed, but the dog was so matted, it was taking two separate treatments and the vet had to do it himself rather than have the groomer do it.”
It took two days. The dog had to be anesthetized — half-shave one day, the other half later.

You see here three photos of Al with his buddy, 6-year-old Bombon — his name is the Spanish word for “marshmallow.” As you probably know, Great Pyrs, when fully groomed and glorious, perfectly fit the “marshmallow” description.
After the second vet visit, Diane says, “Al stopped by his own house this afternoon on the way to taking Bombon home and I saw him out on the deck. My dogs were going crazy.  Cindy took these three pictures.”

Then Diane confided, “Al spent at least $300 on Bombon's grooming, and the vet put that coat on him and gave him a new collar.  The owner did offer to pay Al back but Al said no, it was okay - he just wanted Bombon to be comfortable.”

[LARRY ASIDE: In a city where animals are frequently “ignored to death,” it is a great thing to know that a human heart can rise to help a dog who was heading down a tough trail. It’s kind of a twist on the ol “See something? Say something!” rule. “See something? Do something nice.” We don’t know what challenges the humans face, so maybe giving the animal a break will help set the family ship on its journey in rough seas. Now, everybody, go hug your dog or cat, even if you have to wake them up! Be kind to animals. It’s good for your own heart. Just ask Al.]


LOOKING AHEAD

WITH DOG ’N’ KITTY CITY
As you probably know, the no-kill Dog ’n’ Kitty City Shelter in Dallas is operated by the Humane Society of Dallas County, founded in 1975 with a simple mission of helping animals.
The mission operates because of puplic support — wait, honest typographical error by Larry Powell — it’s “PUBLIC support.” 
And the Society is already well at work on the HSDC Winter Raffle 2019. You can buy raffle tickets now at dognkittycity.org.
The event begins at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 13 (drawings begin at 7:30 p.m.), at Feed Company Eatery, 5631 Alta Ave. on Lower Greenville. “Need not be present to win,” the HSDC says, “But join us for the fun!” 
Items on the raffle list include Southwest Airlines tickets; dinner tickets; Keurig K-Cafe Coffee, Lattee and Cappuccino Maker; Barking Hound Village Pampered Pooch Package; Cat Lovers Basket from Pet Supplies Plus; chocolates — [LARRY ASIDE: Couldn’t resist listing chocolates] — and many more things.
Now, just in case you’re in need of a loving cat, we went to the Dog ’n’ Kitty site and found these two: 
Kris is the “excellent mother who not only took care of her four kittens, she also took in a kitten that didn’t have a mother.” They were the targets of her affection and care. And now, Kris needs a home — she’s about 3 years old and “loves head nudges and gives lots of sweet purrs.”

That handsome tuxedo fellow? Why, that is Larry, born in January of 2012 — he’s NOT available for adoption but is in the shelter’s Guardian Angel program . He’s among those animals that for health, personality or maybe “just because” reasons, this shelter has become a home.

And there are these two dogs waiting for one home — if all works out right in their lives this time. Unique (left) and sister Taberthe were “thrown over the shelter’s 6-foot-fence” together. They’re bonded and “would go great in a home together,” the shelter says. Their date of birth is listed as August 11, 2012. 
To help these animals or any animal in the shelter, email adoptions@dognkittycity.org. Call 214-350-7387 and leave a message. There’s an adoption application available at dognkittycity.org. And you can stop by the shelter (closed Tuesdays) — it’s at 2719 Manor Way in Dallas, west of Love Field.
CONTEMPLATION
THE SULLY PHOTO
We decided to contemplate one photo that, no doubt, touches the hearts of anyone who has ever had a dog that had a personal mission of adding to a human’s life -- and don't they all! You can, I hope, read the notes on that photo of Sully at President 41’s casket. I like to think that our dogs and cats are among the “Thousand Points of Light” that President Bush cited in his GOP nomination speech in 1988. Here’s the LINK to the Washington Post story about Sully and the photograph.
—- Click on “comment” below or email dallrp@aol.com. —-

WAITING FOR A YULETIDE DELIVERY; WAITING FOR YULETIDE RESCUE & YULETIDE MUSING

EDITION OF MONDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2018 [PetPowellPress] Our opening item has a lot in common with the holidays. The key phrase? “Expecting a delivery.”

HOW TO KEEP GEORGIA
ON YOUR MIND
She’s certainly on the mind of our pal Stephen Foster, president and founder of DFW’s Furgotten Friends. This is one of those blessed events that needs helping hands. Keep reading — there’s an important video link coming up.
The photos presented here are of Georgia sleeping peacefully, the x-ray of her broken leg and a couple of puppies from her previous litter.
Stephen sent us a note about Georgia, this big girl who has been “living off a 2-lane road near Mansfield.” Yes. Stephen explains, “She would lay right at the edge of the road but if someone stopped to try and get her she would run off into a field. This girl had at least a couple of litters while living out there. Sadly, some of her puppies where hit by cars on the road but some of the others were caught by rescuers.
“I think it was November 5th that she gave up and let Heaven's Helpers catch her. They took her to their vet and — surprise — she was pregnant again. 

“Molly, with Heavens Helpers, started reaching out for help because they weren't set up for a pregnant girl. That's when I stepped in and agreed my rescue DFW Furgotten Friends would help. I had just finished with a mom and litter so still had the maturity house and safety yard set up.
“Molly brought Georgia to me on November 9th. The minute she got here I knew Georgia had a serious leg injury. Her left leg was shorter than her right. After a few days of introducing her to my pack I took her to my vet for images.

“Sure enough she had a serious fracture to her left femur which had fused.

“At our guess of a two-year-old dog with two litters under her belt, she had also survived a broken leg and kept trucking on. Our four-legged friends are so resilient and amaze me with every one I save. Georgia also amazed me by being completely house-trained. She will hold it for 10 hours in her maternity room. She plays with all my dogs and loves on everyone who comes in.”
Now here’s Stephen’s important note; “I plan on doing a Facebook live video on my personal page when she starts to deliver." You'll want to keep this link handy: https://www.facebook.com/sfoster62.
No idea when that’ll be — Stephen posted this fourth photo on Sunday and wrote, “No puppies for Georgia just yet. Unless you want to count Chelsey cuddling up.”  [LARRY ASIDE: Clearly, Georgia is showing us all how to patiently wait.]
In the meantime, here is a thought rescue groups might agree with. In an era that needs tranquility, perhaps animal people can show the nation the way.
 Stephen suggests, “Heavens Helpers and DFW FurGotten Friends working together to save a dog and future puppies shows how rescues CAN work together. Georgia should be the poster child for all rescues. All rescues need to put aside their differences in policies or hatred of other rescues. I hope one day we can all work together because we're all in it for the same outcome. Saving as many dogs as we can.”

MEANWHILE AT DALLAS ANIMAL SERVICES

There’s a whole new “bargain” adoption fee for animals over six months old at Dallas Animal Services.
You see the artwork from DAS and, below, a couple of animals that qualify for the $5 adoption.
That tan and white, neutered Chihuahua is Rocko (A0723699) — he’s about 6 years old.
 And that substantial cat is A1023296, known in the shelter as “Chub.” Oh, my. She's a spayed “brown brindle and white Domestic Medium Hair.” And she’s about 3 years old.
Clearly getting both of them for $10 is the best bargain in America right now. Even better than under-$2 gasoline. 
To see more adoptables at DAS, visit dallasanimalservices.org.
TWO HAPPY DOGS
NEEDING HAPPY HOMES
These are two of many animals that could use a human heart to help them dodge the needle at Mesquite Animal services.
 On the left is 2-year-old Mitch (40221110), a stray Lab/Pointer mix who came in on 11/21. He’s got the greatest pinpoint blaze on his face and four white paws and a white tip on the end of his tail. The 45-pound dog wags his happy tail a lot. Walks well on a leash, says his biographer Judi Brown.

 Kip (40240623) is a year-old, 75-pound Lab/Shepherd mix who arrived as a stray on Nov. 26. Nobody came “looking for him,” Judi wrote. She also says, Kip is “extremely affectionate. When I sat down he pushed up close to me and put his head on my lap. Another family came out in the yard with a young child and he was very gentle and loving with the child.” 
To ask about either of these dogs, call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.


CONTEMPLATIONS   
MUSIC AND MUSING
Most recent shocking developments in modern America? Dallas beat New Orleans? Oklahoma beat Texas? Gasoline dropped below $2 a gallon? 
Nope. It was 102.1 FM in Cleveland dropping Baby, It’s Cold Outside from its Christmas music playlist. The “adult contemporary” station got lots of publicity for banning Baby, It’s Cold Outside — the station announced the song was inappropriate in the “Me Too” era. 
I hardly know what to say except I’ll get right to the important note: There is a Dallas connection to the song. The 1949 Academy Award-winning song Baby It’s Cold Outside was written by Frank Loesser. He’s the Dallas connection. How so? Loesser also wrote the song “Big D”— the one with “Big D, My, o, yes, Big D little a double l-a -s.” (Here’s Jo Stafford’s recording
of the song featured in the film Neptune’s Daughter.)
So, there we are, onlookers as a radio station in Cleveland purges a song — like libraries and schools have purged books and cities have purged statues and street names based on the “mood of the moment.”
If we start purging songs for being suggestive, it’s going to be a quiet radio dial.
Of course, the irony is Baby, It’s Cold Outside was on the Christmas play list but doesn’t mention Christmas. 
Here’s a LINK
 to a popular Yuletide song that doesn’t mention Christmas but does suggest “snuggling up together like two birds of a feather.”
I don’t even know how to bring up this paean to ageism and alcohol. Read the special -- beloved in some homes -- “Grandma” lyrics HERE.
But, in case you want to reconsider your thoughts on Baby, It’s Cold Outside, here’s one of Dean Martin’s versions.
It’s a winter song — always seemed to be sort of innocently romantic, didn’t you think? Oh, wait, don’t answer that. Don’t want to get anybody purged over a love song from the ‘40s.
For those of you interested in being offended today, here’s a link to Robert Earl Keen’s Merry Christmas From the Fam-o-lee.
https://youtu.be/P37xPiRz1sg?t=2
—- To offer an opinion or to suggest that offending people has no place in America, click on ‘comment’ below and I hope you see the humor in that when you email dallrp@aol.com. —

O CHRISTMAS TREE, O CHRISTMAS TREE, THESE SLEEPING PUPS ADD UP TO THREE

We’ve decided to go “seasonal” with this first weekend of December edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap, our long-running feature at readlarrypowell.com.

Kind of warms your ol’ yuletide heart, doesn’t it?
 And, of course, it’s uplifting to know that these are three rescues. They are the guiding forces in the home of our pals Tomi Ortiz and her hubby Frank.
Tomi sent these photos and wrote, “Just wanted to share some pictures of my dog babies! There’s a picture of Angel before we started decorating and after we ‘somewhat’ finished.
“She then moved next to her brothers (Lac & Boss) who were no help at all…They just laid there as we decorated around them! LOL!

“Angel, my little devil Pom, Lac the Cad, and Boss the Hog! 

“As you can see Boss still thinks he’s the baby and squeezes into the smallest of the dog beds…He cracks me up! He reminds me of me getting into my jeans after Thanksgiving.”
[LARRY ASIDE: I am somewhat comforted in knowing that I am not the only person who faces the “tug-and-button” challenge after Thanksgiving. Or, as I refer to it, “Thanksgaining.”]

You may remember reading about these three dogs because of how Lac got his name. When they rescued him, Frank “owned a Silver Cadillac and the dog got the ‘Lac’ part of the name rather than the “Cad” part.”
 Angel, rescued a couple of months after Lac arrived, has charmed Frank. And Boss made his mark as a weeks-old puppy.
Tomi once explained, “To tell you the truth, before I was blessed with him, I had been terrified of pit bulls! I had heard so many bad things from the media that I would make sure to steer clear of all pit bulls.
“But now my opinion has been changed forever! He is the sweetest and most loving dog in the world!”
You can read a 2015 column about the three dogs and their two humans HERE.
[LARRY ASIDE: And, now, we’ll all vow to loose two inches in the waistline so we’ll get into our Thanksgiving jeans by Christmas and not have to face New Year’s Even with a diet of lettuce and water.]

REMEMBER, DEAR READERS, we love to post photos of beloved animals that know how to sleep! It demonstrates to readers around the world that they feel safe at home. And that is a tribute to the humans who love them. Send your photos of your sleepers and the info about their stories to dallrp@aol.com. We spotlight these friendships on www.readlarrypowell.com. Remember you’ll be helping someone decide that they, too, can save an animal. And you’ll be helping insomniacs realize they can get some sleep, if they can just get the right number of mood-setting lights on their Christmas tree.]
—- Offer praise or congratulations by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com. —

ONE STRANGE THURSDAY & SOME YULETIDE NOTES WHILE DALLAS WAS AHEAD...

EDITION OF FRIDAY, LAST DAY OF NOVEMBER 2018 [PetPowellPress] What a wonderful summer day we enjoyed Thursday and not only that, we bought gasoline for under $2 for the first time in…well, I can’t remember the last time I paid less than two bucks for a gallon of gas. Hang on. … Oh, Porche Noel is about 9 and she says she’s never seen the gas price this low. Of course, she gave up her driver’s license when she acquired a chauffeur with a credit card. Now, let’s move on and try to save some other animals just as zany street dog Porche Noel was saved at Christmas all those years ago. When I see the dog sweetly napping in the glow of Christmas lights, it makes me feel like this really is the Season of Miracles. So, the miracle I’d like to see is the opening of the hearts in Texas and shelters and rescue groups finding grateful adoptors who will set the nationwide trend for goodness. Cue the Hallelujah Chorus.
NEEDING MIRACLES
IN LITTLE WILMER
It’s not a big town, maybe around 4,300 these days, but Wilmer has a big opportunity to save some animals. Laura Macias and Leighann Hayden and a few supporters have been trying to hustle animals to safety from the Wilmer Shelter’s isolation for a while now. The big enemy is low human traffic.
As the latest note, directed to rescue groups, reads, “It is not a shelter where people come in to adopt, there are no walk-in's.  Everything that comes in dies, unless someone can help that is with a rescue group.
This is a very safe shelter to pull from - dogs have very low exposure to other dogs due to it being so small, and the dogs and puppies just don't have some of the diseases you see coming out of the larger shelters. It's a great shelter to help save a VERY DESERVING puppy or dog.”

That big boy in the first picture is Boomerang. The puppies in the background are designed for rescue- only, the note reads. The big dog was originally called Daddy but “since he would leave but always come back”, the person who found him changed his name to Boomerang.
The deal is, he’s got some kind of ugly growth on his neck and he needs a vet to take a look at it.
Of course, we’ve mentioned this guy Barkley before. He’s a Lab/Pointer mix, they say. And, “He adores people, other dogs, absolutely everyone.  He has received first set of vaccs and was heartworm tested (healthy! YAY)  … He is such a sweet lovable boy and he would be such a great addition to any family.”
The third pup is Autumn, a female Pharaoh Hound Mix. The bio reads, “Really beautiful dog.  This sweet precious girl was picked up by the Dallas County officers just off the freeway close to where the the Dallas Dept of Health and Human Services office is ... She is just the sweetest thing - does great with other dogs including a German Shepherd that is at the shelter.  She is such a sweet girl.”
To help with any of these or any other animal in the Wilmer shelter, get in touch with Laura by call or texting 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.
THE CHALLENGES
OF BURNS FLAT, OKLA.
Most people reading this are in a big metropolitan sprawl. There are options. Options. 
In Burns Flat, Okla., Terry Lynn Fisher IS the option. Lately the responsibility of living up to her mission of protecting the animals is a wearying experience. But she keeps going. Here’s what she wrote earlier this week: “It never ends.... They just keep getting thrown out like the trash... Sweet, innocent lives, that someone just felt didn't deserve to live... But we don't feel that way.... we feel they ALL deserve a chance…. So, here I am... Posting for help... they need fosters... rescues... a safe and loving place to go…”
These are the dogs she’s working with now. Terry Lynn wrote:
“1. CANUTE … This boy showed up at a country home Thanksgiving day... We have searched for the owner, but are pretty sure it was dumped there. He is very friendly and loves children. The people are elderly and just cannot take it on....
“2. ELK BOY... dumped at the Elk City Lake, this poor boy was skin and bones...  This is a place so many are thrown out at... it is where my precious old Chi was found.... This one was picked up and the guy took home to feed. He is gone to work a lot so he said he ca not keep him. I now have him in boarding for awhile as I search for rescue....
“3. FOSS, FEMALE...This cutie was also dumped… She ended up at a small business that is located in the middle of nowhere... At first, she would not come to them. She is now coming and eating from their hands and lets them love her... She stays out there, which worries me, for there are many coyotes. She is only about 25 pounds…
4. LITTLE CHI… This girl is a sweet one. The people found her while driving home out in the country. They brought her home, trying to find owners, but had no luck. They would like to find her a good home or rescue... she is good with dogs, cats and kids.”

To help with any of these or any of the many other animals Terry Lynn is protecting email her at remembering_oddball@yahoo.com.

A DOG SAVED JUST BEFORE
THE NEEDLE WAS READIED
Sydney Busch, who usually serves as the “voice” of Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake, also has a knack for encountering the stories of animals that need some help. This is Grant.
 The story is Grant “was saved from being euthanized about 6 weeks ago. He is about a year old, neutered, all shots current, heart worm negative. He knows sit, stay, down and will walk on a leash. Christy can’t keep him, she already has 6 dogs.  Her phone number is 713-446-3053. She would be willing to do a trial visit, she just wants a good home for him.”
  And to see how to help the Friends with their mission of operating the world’s most successful spay/neuter clinic at Gun Barrel City, Texas, go to the website HERE or go to the facebook page HERE.
CONTEMPLATIONS
THE COWBOYS, GASOLINE, AND
A MARY DUNKLIN CHRISTMAS NOTE
This is being written as the Cowboys are leading the New Orleans Saints 13-0. I bought gasoline earlier in the day for under $2 a gallon — apparently anything is possible summer-like Thursday in theJerryworldtroplex. … On Thursday afternoon I was in Duncanville picking up life-enhancing meds from my pals at the Ben Franklin Apothecary and I realized that the office at the north end of that block of Main Street is missing (again this year) a formerly ol’ reliable Santa figure that used to endure the yuletide by waiting next to a box labeled “Letter to Santa.” This was the most un-traditional Santa figure ever displayed in American culture — I’m pretty sure. I mean, geez, look at that photo! Basically, it was kind of Santa Claus in a bee suit. If I’d known it was up for sale, I’d have bought this Santa and proudly displayed him each year. Our neighbors would have been as surprised as they are when I mow the lawn. It’s been years since we had an outdoor decoration. My former PetsittingSpouse Martha wrapped her Range Rover in twinkle lights and parked it in the front yard! That’s some pricey holly jolly. … All this brings me to, perhaps, the greatest one-paragraph description of the season ever written. Our author is the great Mary Dunklin, whose work has been featured here a few times before. This time she wrote an amusing one-paragraph Christmas story. It’s full of a picture of the season. Mary wrote: I never feel more alive than I do the one time a year I go in the attic, pulling out Christmas decorations, fearing for my life, worrying about falling through the ceiling or having a random woodland creature jump out of the boxes at me. Good times.” The woodland creature had me howling. (FYI We wrote about Mary’s animal rescue side a year ago. Read it HERE. And, relax, no woodland creature will jump out at you!)
—- Offer admiration, advice or holiday greetings by clicking on ‘comment’ below or emailing dallrp@aol.com. —-

GOURDS, PUMPKINS, CATS, DOGS & LIONS

EDITION OF THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2018 [PetPowellPress] Here we go on the next-to-last day of November, 2018. The only thing I don’t like about my favorite month is it moves so darned fast. I’m still trying to process my Halloween pumpkin harvest. Here’s a photo I shot the day after Thanksgiving.

Usually I get about a six-pumpkin crop from my run amok-vines that covered the front yard.
This time I hit the jackpot with the Jack-Be-Littles. I have no idea what the big things are — but their plants died after that odd frost a few weeks ago and that was it for them. My agrispouse Martha claims she slipped some giant gourd seeds in with my Jack-Be-Littles and I can’t argue that — I’m only a pumpkin farmer. 
I’m wondering if the frost affected the Dallas Cowboys. We’ll see tonight when New Orleans comes to visit America’s Alleged Team.
SEASONAL KITTENS
SINCE IT’S STILL AUTUMN
The great Sydney Busch of Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake forwarded this note about kittens being fostered by Breanna Smith.
 As you know, the Friends of the Animals operate the world’s most successful spay/neuter clinic at Gun Barrel City — and they can always use donations and clinic supplies. Just a yuletide hint.
In the meantime Breanna is trying to help these kittens find a home. They’re six weeks old. How’d she get them? Her note explains, “Their mother showed up in my yard one day very pregnant and I caught her just in time for her to deliver the kittens in my house. They are both very playful siblings, both girls I believe, and very mischievous. They are so sweet and I want to find good homes for both of them, preferably together. Any help in doing so is greatly appreciated!” To help these babies, text 903-880-3262 or email breannasmith9051@gmail.com.


SOME FROM MESQUITE

NEED TO BEAT THE NEEDLE
How about that Tyson! Five years old, 53 pounds, already fixed and surrendered to Mesquite Animal Services on Nov. 19 because “he got into a fight with another dog,” reports volunteer biographer Judi Brown. The dog isn’t big on other dogs, but he is “a lover of people,” she writes. He’s #5258603 in the shelter. [LARRY ASIDE: I don't want to put words into a good dog's mouth, but that photo on the left shows a smilin' dog who's thinking he's about to get adopted and the photo on right shows the dog as he realizes he's in big trouble and needs to get out of the shelter before they get the needle and come for him.]
Josie, the year-old Lab mix, came into the shelter as a stray on the 17th. “She is an affectionate, friendly girl who loves life and everyone in it!. She’s a lap dog wannabe.”
Of course, she also weighs 37 pounds and its “treat-motivated.” Will dance for them. Doesn’t mind other dogs, but, on her shelter tour, jumped back when a cat hissed at her.
[LARRY ASIDE: Don’t we all, Larry knowingly, lovingly, respectfully wrote.] Josie’s ID is
40194512.
And that brings us to Ethan, 2, a 34-pound, already fixed, red heeler who was a stray when he arrived on the 13th. Judi wrote, “When he came in he had some scrapes and open wounds on his rear leg (possibly been hit by a car?). Meanwhile he has been an isolation and being treated. The wounds have healed. Ethan (40164064) is a delightful boy who is extremely affectionate. When I sat down he tried to crawl in my lap. He gives an abundance of kisses. He’s also very alert and energetic but not overly so.” He also looks like he could walk a tightrope if needed!
To ask about these three, call 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com. To see more of the adorable adoptables in Mesquite’s shelter, click HERE.

CONTEMPLATIONS
LIONS, POOR KIDS AND BIG D DRIVING

A special thanks to the Oak Cliff Lions Club for a great noontime on Wednesday. The Lions put up with my speech about journalism, animals, civics, responsibility and a few lines that were not quite as funny as originally calculated. Lions are forgiving, clearly. Got to see my ol’ pals Jo Ann Holt and her hubby Durhl Caussey — you can read their work on the Focus Daily News site. Also ran into the Realtor Robert Bown who’s famous among animal folks as being the dad of the great Stacey McCool, the fab foster with Paws In The City. Note to animal rescue groups: A number of the Lions have dogs and cats and some have rescued animals recently and many have made a habit of watching out for the well-being of animals. The Lions might be a good ally in animal issues.  Did you realize that Lions Club was chartered in 1929? A while back. That’s a lot of community service and a lot of laughter. The last time I’d attended a Lions Club meeting was in 1966. The difference was this time there are women who are Lions. Changed in the late ‘80s. For the better, of course. … I heard a radio story about the mayor’s initiative to help poor children. The announcement said one of every 3 children in Dallas is poor. I had two little brothers way back in the 1950s — I think we went 3 for 3 on the poor rating. … A headline on The Big Paper Downtown's website reads “Dallas ranks among the worst U.S. cities for driving in snow, rain, report says.” It’s not that much better in dry weather. Come on down for a visit and bring your insurance cards.
—- To offer an opinion, advice or surrender, click on “comment” below or email dallrp@aol.com. —-

ASSORTED AVAILABLE ANIMALS, A LIM-ERIC! BOOK AND SOME CONTEMPLATIONS

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2018 [PetPowellPress] — We have some firsts today including Baseball Half of Fame Broadcaster Eric Nadel’s Big League limericks and a cat described as “big boned.”
 Usually, “big boned” is a description reserved for “tending to be large” children such as myself. But that’s between me and the shrink who can successfully bid for the long-term therapy contract. We’ll even discuss music and dogs and other things. Here goes:
THE BIG CAT AT THE BIG SHELTER

AND A DOG WITH A HOLIDAY NAME
So, how did Dallas Animal Services do with its elongated “Black Friday” weekend? The answer was posted on DAS’ Facebook page and it read this way: “Over the course of the last four days, animal lovers like you saved the lives of 361 pets -- 257 dogs, 103 cats, and a pocket pet!”
So, Dallas is now completely out of animals — hang on a second. Nope, I checked the list on dallasanimalservices.org and the shelter still has quite a few. And, of course, it has the needle.
On the DAS Facebook page, the featured cat is this one, Kitty (A1049720). DAS describes here as “a total sweetheart” and then says, “She's a little ‘big boned’ but that's just more of her to love! Kitty is looking for a home where she can relax in your lap while you binge your favorite TV shows or conquer your new video game. She would do best in a calm home with adults where she can reign.” 

You might wonder how that dog could possibly be related to Christmas. Well, her name is Marley and that’s one of the character’s in Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. This Marley (A1013420) is described as a “female, tricolor Australian Cattle Dog and American Bulldog.” She’s about 2 and has been at the shelter since November 21.”

For either of these sweethearts or any other animal call the shelter at 214-670-6800 or drop by the big shelter at I-30 and Westmoreland. Go to dallasanimalservices.org to see so many other dogs and cats that need a home that it’ll make you ashamed of the people of Dallas who dumped them, let them run free or ignored them until they got picked up by the “authorities.”
MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE

Well, of course, the ol’ Code Red list has been active in Mesquite Animal Services lately. Too many animals — surrendered and strayed, they wind up on the clock.
This girl is Cookie (40233449), an 8-year-old, 27-slim-pound Shar-Pei mix surrendered on the 24th. Why? Her story, provided by the volunteer biographer Judi Brown, says she was surrendered “because the owners no longer had enough time for her! They had her for three years and said she was four years old. However her muzzle is turning gray and her teeth show her to be older. To meet this dog is to love her! She is very soft and very sweet. She follows you around and stays close. She’s very calm and gentle. She’s well mannered. She sits for treats. She also knows to stay and go inside or outside . She is very mellow with a relatively low activity level. Her previous owners said that she’s good with other dogs and children. They said she was an inside dog only. You probably noticed that she’s too thin and could use some groceries. She also has some crusting around her eyes which the vet is going to look … A cat hissed at her and she jumped back.”
To ask about Cookie or any animals in the Mesquite shelter, call 972 –216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
It’s frequently not the dog or cat you see that is destined for you, it’s the one you find waiting for you in the shelter. Here’s the link to see the animals in Mesquite’s shelter. Among them is this guy Jelly Bean (40194144), a 4-month-old “Domestic Medium Hair Mix” who is house-trained and small. But doesn’t he have a “big presence” in that photo! He’s been in the shelter since November 17 and that means his clock is ticking no matter how charming he is.


THE BOOK IS PUBLISHED,
THE MUSIC IS READY
All during the Texas Rangers season radio listeners on the team’s network could hear Hall of Fame broadcaster Eric Nadel providing limericks to celebrate the game — and the Rangers’ games frequently needed a diversion to celebrate. It was appropriate, then, that Eric, a noted dog fan, by the way, would announce the arrival of this book with a limerick. Here it is:

“So finally we have a book.
And I’m surprised how long it took.
But now that it’s here
There’s one thing that’s clear.
You all really must have a look.”

The official announcement notes that the “witty and thought-provoking limericks about baseball and a world of other subjects” are accompanied by gorgeous illustrations by Arthur James” and that part of the proceeds from the sale of each $19.99 book will go to The Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation.
||
And the LIM-ERIC! release party is on Wednesday, December 5, at The Kessler in Dallas. The show features Pedigo's Magic Pilsner, Whitney Rose and Joshua Ray Walker. Part of the proceeds from the show also go to the Foundation. Here’s the BOOK LINK and here’s the PARTY LINK.
CONTEMPLATIONS
ASSORTED NOTES ABOUT ASSORTED TOPICS
You know what’s going to keep me from fretting over the likely smothering of Dallas by New Orleans Thursday night? The fact that the Texas Rangers haven’t made a sincere move to improve pitching. Yeah, they hired a new pitching coach. But so what? Oh, my, I’m already negative about the Texas Rangers and spring training is still way off — about two weeks after the Feb. 3 Super Bowl LIII in Atlanta. … My son Bart called and asked what I was doing. “I’m writing a speech,” I replied. “What’s it about?” he asked. “Not sure yet. But animals and journalism.” And he said, “Yeah, they both need rescuing.” … Isn’t it amazing that mankind can send the InSight Lander all the way to Mars? Astounding. If they’d had to send it through the downtown Dallas freeway system first it would have never gotten off the ground.
—- To offer a rebuttal or an opinion or advice, click on “comment” below or email dallrp@aol.com. —-

SAVE SOME ANIMALS; CONSIDER A SANTA FILM; CONTEMPLATE SOME FRUITCAKE

EDITION OF TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2018 [PetPowellPress] Maybe your Thanksgiving was peaceful -- not political wisecracks or arguments. Our most vigorous discussion during Thanksgiving breakfast was launched by this assertion: “Apricot jelly is for old people.”
Let that settle on your biscuit for a while. You can’t really call that assertion “ageism.” No, aging is more likely linked to preserves.
REPORT FROM DAS
Here’s the opening passage from the Facebook page report Dallas Animal Services presented Monday as the Black Friday Adoption Event stretched into the Cyber Monday arena. It read: “So far our Black Friday Adoption Event has saved 286 lives -- 203 dogs and 82 cats! The event continues today and we hope to cross the 300 mark."

 A quick look at Monday night’s DAS listings on dallasanimalservices.org showed this girl Chelase (A0960855), about 4, a spayed German Shepherd, is available — she’s been in the shelter since Sunday. Got to wonder about those circumstances.
Do they have any cats left at DAS? Yes, indeed, we have Ed Sheeran, mentioned in Monday’s report, and this cat Trey, in foster care, but available. Both lads are in need of permanent homes. And in a metropolitan sprawl that has millions of residences, surely there are two that have room for cats. At least two. Wouldn’t you think?
AN AVAILABLE CAT
FROM OUT AT THE LAKE
Great lookin’ cat, don’t you think? The back story is he lived in a garage for the first 8 months of his life. Family member dropped him off at his current foster’s home. Sydney Busch, the reliable voice of Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake, tipped us to his story and says, “This adorable, loving little guy is being neutered tomorrow [Tuesday] and will be available for his forever home later this week.”
Where’s he being neutered? Where else? The Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake Spay/Neuter Clinic — it is, of course, the world’s most successful spay/neuter clinic at Gun Barrel City, Texas.
The little guy is said to be very sweet and word is he “was only fed left-overs and human food. We got him to eat kitten food. All he wants is love. He craves it more than most cats. Sadly we cannot keep him. We live in an apartment too small and have a kid on the way and will not be able to afford the love and care he will need.”
To ask about giving this cat a home or rescuing him, email
sonofgods1@yahoo.com or phone 903-340-4150.



JENNA AND BARKLEY:

TWO FROM WILMER


 Laura Macias and her colleagues on the small shelter mission have been trying to hustle up homes for these two for weeks now. They’re in the small Wilmer Animal Shelter just south of Dallas on I-45. Lots of paw traffic, not much foot traffic. So people have to jump onto social media and make like town criers to get some attention. It’s fatiguing, but if it’s not done, the needle stays busy.
Jenna is the youngish Aussie Shepherd/German Shepherd mix who had puppies several weeks ago. Her reward was being picked up as a stray. She’s said to be a “precious sweetie” who is “very, very deserving” of being saved.

That boy dog is Barkley, said to be a Lab/Pointer mix. Healthy dog. Just needs a human to save his life via adoption or rescue.
Help these dogs by calling or texting Laura at 214-949-2726 or email her at cat_girl_71@yahoo.com. And, yes, transportation can be arranged.

CONTEMPLATIONS

Loving Dallas; Enjoying Kurt as Santa; Fruitcake Craving
Ah, Dallas, I loved you for a reason, but I can’t remember what it was. Anyone want to help with that? I’ll start with (1) Dedicated animal rescuers who have all won Lotto Texas; (2) Two Guys From Italy (that’s in North Dallas) and Gonzalez on Jefferson in Oak Cliff; and (3) the always fluid Dallas traffic patterns. … 
As a sucker for Christmas-themed movies, I watched The Christmas Chronicles starring Kurt Russell on Netflix. Yep, I liked it. Several reasons, among them Kurt Russell’s version of St. Nick and his performance of Santa Claus Is Back In Town that echoed both Elvis’ version and Elvis’ role in Jailhouse Rock. I realize this sort of review introduces several foreign concepts to people born after the arrival of the 20th Century: (1) Disney films without animation, (2) The Travels of Jaimie McPheeters (1963-1964) and Elvis A. Presley (1935-1977, allegedly). Oh, yeah, the other thing I liked was the performance of KImberly Williams-Paisley — she pegged “angry mother of teenage boy” perfectly. Keep in mind, I’m not a professional movie critic. Mostly I just complain about the price of popcorn and Coke in a movie theater. Fortunately, I watched The Christmas Chronicles on my Kindle. Popcorn was cheap. … 
Not to set off any cravings, but what’s your favorite Christmas treat? It’s OK to say “fruitcake.” The affection for fruitcake runs in my family — we had an aunt who baked one for us every year. Three little boys loved it. Never grew out of the affection for a good fruitcake. Oops, there’s a qualifier that’s hard to defeat.
—- To offer an opinion, a solution or a fruitcake recipe, click on “comment” or email dallrp@aol.com. —-

WHAT A COLLECTION OF DOGS! PLUS A SPECIAL APPEAL FOR ED SHEERAN

EDITION OF MONDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2018 [PetPowellPress] This edition took a lot of work involving my ComputerSpouse Martha and my patience with the 21st Century. We updated the computer’s operating system on Friday and, at 4:30 p.m. Sunday, we think it’s finally working like it’s supposed to work. We’ll see. What an ordeal.
Being of a suspicious mind, I think this is one of those deals where a company hands out its latest new and improved update and then, rather than hiring people to test it, it simply lets all us mokes with no computer sense discover the shortcomings and tragedies. Free repair advice.
And, there you have it. Now, we’re going to dive into such things as Giving Tuesday, interstate dog rescue and assorted contemplations. And we’ll tell you about that dog with the trimmed ears, too.

  Before we move on, I want to point out that here you have two photos labeled Ed Sheeran.
One is of a neut- ered Orange Tabby who is about 9 months old and has been in the Dallas Animal Services Shelter since Nov. 9. (See his story and how to save him at dallasanimalservices.org or call 214-670-6800 — ask about A1048872.)
The other Ed Sheeran is the rock star from England, a genuine ginger with lots of fans who adore him.
He last played Dallas in 2017 during a long, long global tour. Opening act was The Geezinslaws. I’m kidding. But they’ve opened for a lot of people. (More later.) Let’s get back to animals.
 
GIVING TUESDAY? ALREADY?
HERE ARE SOME GOOD REASONS
Yeah, I know, some people are still rattled from Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but this is important. This one’s for the non-profits. Check to see if your non-profit is on the Giving Tuesday list. We know of two and both of them are involved in rescuing and saving animals. The SPCA of Texas — we told the story last week of a rescue of 90 animals in Van Zandt County — has been ultra busy saving dogs, cats, pigs, horses, chickens, donkeys, etc., in the North Texas area. That isn’t done without expense. So, the SPCA of Texas is on the Giving Tuesday list. And the SPCA says, “On #GivingTuesday, gifts made online at spca.org/GivingTuesday will be matched dollar for dollar up to $9,000, thanks to a generous gift provided by Northern Trust."
While the SPCA is usually working to save animals that are already in the general vicinity of Big D, the Greyhound Adoption League of Texas is awaiting a “tsunami of Greyhounds” from Florida which has voted to ban “commercial dog racing involving wagering” by December 31.
According to GALT, “The legislation provides no support or funding to assist the hounds displaced by the closing tracks. While it remains unclear how the legislation will be implemented, GALT anticipates a significant increase in volume of retirees coming into its program between now and the end of 2020. Three displaced hounds have already arrived (Seth, Laura and Erica) and more are on the way!”
GALT is working increasing its capacity for hosting Greyhounds. And, you can giving to the GALT Giving Tuesday effort through November 30. See the details by going to this SITE.
 
SWEET AND UNCLAIMED,
A DOG NEEDS A HOME 

Our ol’ pal and colleague at The Big Paper Downtown, Dr. Tracy Everbach, the seasoned journalist and veteran professor at the University of North Texas, has a mission aside from education: Save and protect animals.
 Here’s the latest dog she’s trying to help. 
She needs a “foster for this extremely sweet and friendly dog. She is housebroken and loves people -- gives lots of kisses. She knows commands and enjoys going for walks. No one has come forward, she does not have a chip, and we have posted her all over social media sites, reported her to DAS and have distributed flyers. She is in a no-kill shelter at the moment but it is not the best situation as she is anxious and lonely. She would be better off in a home. We want to get her vetted and with a rescue group. Money is not a concern--we have enough people willing to pay for her care. She is very sweet and loving. However, she did not get along with our small, aggressive terrier mix dog, which is why we had to opt for the shelter as a temporary measure. Her weight is about 45 lbs., she is 3-4 years old, and she is well cared for. If anyone is interested or knows someone who is interested in fostering, email me at teverbach@gmail.com." 
[LARRY ASIDE: Dr. Everbach’s succinct, heartfelt appeal should show that there is a good side to veterans of the field of journalism. Wouldn’t you think?]

MESQUITE FOLLOW UP:
THE TEXAS SIX PLUS ONE
You may recall from editions before Thanksgiving that several dogs from Mesquite were saved by the teamwork of Kansas Second Time Around Animal Rescue (KSTAAR) in Dwight, Kans., Town and Country Humane Society
in Papillion, Neb., and hard-working volunteers with the Mesquite Animal Services Shelter.
These are some of the rescued dogs in foster homes. Laura Oeterhaus of KSTAAR sent us the photo of the big dog lounging on the couch. She wrote, “Sherman was one of the six dogs that came to KS from Mesquite on the 17th. He made it to NE just before today’s blizzard and as you can see he’s being treated like a king in his new home.”

Dawn Pointer, our other contact with this effort, sent a photo of Spice, the girl with the “cropped ears” who’d been on the Code Red list before she was saved. She’s taking it easy with a larger dog in her foster home.
Remember, these two out-of-Texas groups also haven’t won Lotto Texas lately and could use some donations. Click on the organizations’ names to get to their websites.

MEANWHILE, IN MESQUITE

CODE RED FOR TUESDAY…
We have some Code Red dogs to mention. Now, in this report they're not all Code Red — yet — in Mesquite.  Matter of time, of course. But any time you adopt or rescue a dog, it takes pressure off the shelter to cram one more in before they kill it.
We’ll start with these two spotted by the volunteer biographer Judi brown. They are (left) Belle (40193485) and Tinker (40193492), a couple of Schnauzer/Terrier sisters — under 3 probably, and in the Mesquite shelter after spending their lives together. “They came in to Mesquite Animal Shelter together on 11/17,” Judi writes, “They have probably been together their entire lives. They sleep curled up together. Both needed time to decompress as they were not happy finding themselves in a noisy shelter. With time they have settled in. Both are very timid and will need lots of TLC.. These dogs are small. Probably would do well if adopted together.
Hershey (40181750) is this 6- to 9-months-0ld Chocolate Lab mix who came in as a stray on the 15th. He’s “extremely sweet and affectionate” but when scolded becomes timid. So, Judi writes, “He will need someone who is very sensitive and aware that he has trust issues.” He is 22 pounds of wannabe lab dog.
 (That's baby Hershey on the right and anxious Hershey on the left --  looking for some help, no doubt.)
Then there’s Benji, a year-old terrier mix who came in as a stray on the 19th. Puppy energy. Alert, Gentle. Needs a laid-back household. Weighs 35 pounds. Looks like a movie star dog, doesn't he?

Estrella must be the most expensive ol’ Yellow Lab in the world — her own- ers surrendered her to Mesquite Animal Services because, they said, they “could no longer afford her.” She’s 75 pounds, about 2 or 3 and bewildered that she was dumped. She’s 40228390.

For any of these “not Code Red yet” dogs, call the shelter at 972-216-62-83 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.

AND NOW SOME CODE REDS

And that brings us to these three who are CODE RED “due to shelter overcrowding” and available until 11 a.m. on Tuesday — that’s “Giving Tuesday” and I know nobody wants to be giving a lethal shot to these dogs. 
Evie (40105665) is the first up — a Retriever-Boxer mix in the shelter since 11/6. Came in as a stray. Judi says, “She’s very gentle and stays close when she’s not looking out the gate. I got the feeling that she was looking for the owners that did not come back looking for her. … She just had a litter.” She’s a 66-pound, lovable, tail-wagging dog.
Ollie (40091709) is energetic, playful and “extremely photogenic because he’s very striking,” Judi writes. He’s a 64-pound dog who’d “make a fabulous family pet.”
Toby (40049718) is 48-pounds of Shepherd/Rottweiler with a great tail. He’s about 2, maybe younger, and came into the shelter on October 30. He’s “friendly” and “perky and playful.”
Also, Judi writes, “He loves balls! He found balls all over the yard. He fetches and retrieves and doesn’t seem to tire of it. He sits for treats.”

Here’s the LINK to Mesquite Animal Services’ many animals.

Once again, the important number to call is 972-216-6283, the important email address is rescues@cityofmesquite.com. Make the call, email the shelter or the dogs are dead. Bottom line: Humans have to save the dogs other humans betrayed.

CONTEMPLATIONS

Assorted topics
Do you read based on clickbait or on your own personal interests or is clickbait what you’re interested in? If it’s clickbait, then I’m about to get a lot of readers with this phrase: “SEE HOW SEX KITTENS DOG AMERICAN MALE MINDSET.” That’s using a phrase “sex kittens” from the last century with “dog” as a verb and “American male mindset,” which we all are concerned about in today’s world. For as long as I can remember, someone has been concerned about the American male mindset. 
Now that I have your attention, let me remind you that Dallas Animal Services is running a “free special” through the end of Cyber Monday. There's the Facebook illustration from DAS’ Facebook page. And it sort of melds just perfectly with this illustration we copied from the Great Foster Patti Sprong’s Facebook page. Yeah, empty the city shelter to make room for the dumped dogs and cats…… And in honor of Ed Sheeran, here’s a link to THINKING OUT LOUD, a love song.. In honor of The Geezinslaws, beloved Texas performers, here’s a link to You Call It Country, I Call It Bad Rock and Roll. Ya’ll enjoy.
—To offer solutions or advice, click on “comment” below or email dallrp@aol.com. —

ON THANKSGIVING, REASONS TO BE GRATEFUL FOR THE LIVES WE HAVE SHARED...

EDITION OF THANKSGIVING, NOVEMBER 22, 2018 [PetPowellPress] For this edition we offer our thanks for our readers and their animals. Yes for our readers and their hearts. For all you tough and tender people who keep working to save more and more animals.
I don’t know if you’ve done much reading about Thanksgiving, but did you know there were dogs and cats on the Mayflower when it arrived late in 1620? (Here’s some reading.The story is by Linda Cole for Canidae Pet Food.)
Two of the dogs were a Mastiff and a Spaniel -- names unknown. Also there was a Calico cat whose presence on the voyage was recorded in a family Bible. And, get this, the cat gave birth soon after it arrive in America. These facts are reported in many stories through the years.
 [LARRY ASIDE: It is important to note, we think, that dogs and cats were already on the continent. The Norsemen may have brought cats on their journeys. Cats were great rat exterminators on ships. And Native Americans had dogs before the Pilgrims arrived.]

A lot of people think the First Thanksgiving was the Pilgrims’ big feast at the Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts. 
But there was that 1598 event in Texas. You may have read about it. This is from the 1990/91 Texas Almanac -- a Thanksgiving history written by my late colleague at The Dallas Morning News, the Texas Almanac Editor Mike Kingston: “A new Thanksgiving tradition has taken root in Texas. El Paso residents now claim the first Thanksgiving in North America. The modern event, first observed in April 1989, commemorates a day of thanksgiving celebrated by Spanish explorer Juan de Oñate and his expedition on April 30, 1598.” Read that assessment HERE.
We’re thankful for history at readlarrypowell.com. We’re also thankful for these animals who live with us. They are the featured animals in this Thanksgiving column which we’re stretching through Sunday as our “Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap” presentation.
 As you know, Thanksgiving is a genuinely American family holiday. Our family has always involved humans, a lot of dogs and cats. Many through the years -- and many are gone, having fallen victim to old age. We never don’t miss them and we are, like so many of you, so very thankful that they became a part of our lives.
The animals featured here are from our past -- unless otherwise noted and, of course, they are still with us. I don’t mind telling you that when I opened that photo of our ol’ girl Claire looking out the window from the back of a long-ago couch, I teared up like the day we lost her -- a long, long time ago. Same thing for that photo of Vera -- Belle Starr Carmelita del Vera Cruz, my first Chihuahua, a rescue. We called her Vera and I taught her to growl when anyone said “Richard Nixon.” That’s also Vera with the late Baby Jane Doe, a dog I picked up as a puppy as she sat stubbornly at about 8 puppy pounds, in the northbound lane of Marsalis at Colorado out in front of a bus stop. Cars drove around her. Not me, man, I know a friend when I see one.
The dog with the Batman pose is my second Chihuahua, Rosie, rescued from Kiest Park with a spectacularly horrible case of mange. I’d run out of names for rescued dogs in those days two decades ago. So her vet, Dr. Catherine Marr, said, “Let’s call her Rosie, because she doesn’t smell like one.” She was the sweetest little girl. 

“That dog Cosmo, in the holiday collar, was such a blessing -- he inspired the story “Christmas on Mo Corner” and that (left) is his photo on the cover. We found him sitting on the corner of Ledbetter near Polk after a summer rainstorm. Such an eternal gentleman.
That fluffy black and white dog, Nicki, is playing with Puppy Annie, now 15 years old, a heeler mix. Nicki was our first dog together. Martha adopted her at a Merchant’s Fair nearly 27 years ago. Martha was there to promote her PetPowell Pet Sitting Service and adopted Nicki. I stopped by to check on Martha on a hot August day and she sent me over to a rescue booth to pick up our new dog. Nicki was beyond dear, more than sweet and a wonderful lady.
You see two sleeping/napping photos with a big orange and white cat -- he was a giant of a fellow, Griffin Oliver Powell. A rescued kitten -- one of our early, early front porch ferals. He was feral for about two seconds and after about 12 weeks, you needed two hands to lift his mammoth girth. 
As you see, he became a pillow for Vera and a pillow for our late cat Spike, the toughest cat in town. Our former vet, Dr. Marr, was tending to him -- some kids had pelted this tiny, tiny kitten with rocks and broken his leg. She put him in a chest and leg cast -- when he walked it sounded like pad pad pad THUNK and stunned the other animals. Spike quickly became the alpha animal in our home. That was nearly 27 years ago. Each Christmas for years, Spike would curl up in our replica of Bedford Falls from It’s a Wonderful Life, a traditional Thanksgiving Day film years ago when the movie was in the public domain and shown repeatedly on the holiday. Spike, by the way, always made sure he was touching Martini’s, the village bar. I think he might have been dreaming of his life with the Pilgrims who must have loosened up a bit after they landed on Plymouth Rock and needed to celebrate.
There are so many more we have loved. Many we kept for years; many we handed over to other people to keep for years.

Just so you know what we expect to see on Thanksgiving and for days after the big meal, that’s our girl Porche Noel on the back of the couch just before she nods off. And the lower photo is Porche Noel sharing a nap backside-to-backside with my personal editor, The Senator. You see him in editing position at my keyboard -- sometimes, when he doesn’t like what he’s reading, he’ll nip me. Honest. That’s the only reason I can figure out. And, of course, he knows how to tell me “It’s time to publish.” You see him there with his watch crown in the “pay attention/I’m serious” mode.
So, these are some of the animals from our past; some from our present. There are some dear, dear family members not mentioned here. Maybe I’ll put the book together. I’ll have to check with The Senator regarding my schedule.

I mention all these animals for this Thanksgiving edition so anybody who has ever had a dog or cat they love will now that it’s OK to declare out loud how much you miss your friends who’ve gone on and how much you love the friends you have now. You might even extend that affection beyond the animals and declare that you also have Thanksgiving in your heart for some people, too. Yes, celebrate Thanksgiving. Give some safe treats to animals and humans and then find a place to take a nap. Follow the lead of your dog or cat -- they know how to take a holiday nap.
[SEND SLUMBER PHOTOS AND BIOS of the dogs and cats and other animals in your life -- we love to post them in Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap, our long-running feature at Readlarrypowell.com. Email the info and photos to dallrp@aol.com. Remember, your love for your slumbering critter affects the hearts of others and may lead them to save the life of a shelter dog or a foundling or a free-roaming dog or cat. It's magic. Plus, it inspires insomniacs to believe that they, too, can sleep if they can just find the right big ol' tomcat to turn into a pillow.]

--- To offer an opinion or a story, grip your ThankfulMouse and click on “comment” below or email dallrp@aol.com. ---

SPCA'S SEIZURE: 90 animals recovered alive, 4 dead in Van Zandt County

EVENING EDITION OF WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2018 [PetPowellPress] As you prepare for Thanksgiving, perhaps you’ll remember the animals and the rescuers who met up on a property in Van Zandt County on Tuesday. 

It's a case of tough life meets tough rescuers.
The SPCA of Texas, Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office, and Van Zandt County Constable Pct. 2 seized “94 allegedly cruelly treated animals.” 
Four were dead.
 The 90 survivors included 60 pigs, 9 dogs, 8 horses, 5 donkeys, 3 goats, 3 chickens, a turkey and a cat.
They’re now in the care of the SPCA. The custody hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Novemer 30 in the court of Pct. 2 Justice of the Peace Sandra Plaster at 250 E. Grove St. in Canton. 
See more photos HERE.
Criminal charges are expected in this case, the SPCA news release said. It also read, “The pigs, chickens and turkey were found confined to various separate pens with little to no access to food or potable water. Some of the live pigs were kept in pens containing deceased pigs. The horses were confined to pens and small pastures. Four dogs and the cat were found inside the residence, which was filled with debris, urine and feces. The remainder of the dogs were found roaming free on the property.”

And there’s this paragraph: “The animals appear to be suffering from various health conditions, including eye discharge, nasal discharge, cracked hooves and long nails, and the majority of the animals appear to be significantly underweight.”

The first complaint was received on October 15 -- an SPCA cruelty investigator visited the property the next day, but the owner allowed him only to see animals in the front of the property. The owner agreed to improve the situation of the animals. But on a visit on November 19, the investigator had access to the entire property, including inside the house. And that is what launched the seizure.
See how to help the SPCA continue this important anti-cruelty work at www.spca.org/helptheanimals.
--- Offer an opinion or a solution by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com. ---

CROSSING THE LINE; A PRE-THANKSGIVING REPORT: THE TEXAS LUCKY SIX AND #7 SPICE

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2018 [PetPowellPress] We’re closing out our work week early -- call it an odd moment at readlarrypowell.com. But we expect to win Lotto Texas Wednesday night. Like the Dallas Cowboys, I’m celebrating a Season of Delusion. We are starting this report report with a fantastic story of rescue. Please read on.
THE JOURNEY
OF SPICE THE DOG
A few issues ago we posted the plight of Spice, this stray girl with the mangled ears and the bad luck.
 We don’t know how she came to have butchered ears and no human. But the good fortune of rescue connections has blessed this 2-year-old Pittie mix. And we’re telling her story as inspiration this holiday season for those of you who work so hard to save animals. Your dedication is the foundation, your heart is the fuel for this mission of goodness. And it’s not limited by state lines -- keep reading for a Kansas/Nebraska/Texas solution! 
Spice, who we first heard of on October 24, became “Code Red” on November 13. That term is the Mesquite Animal Services shelter notice for “get the needle ready.” Too many strays, too many surrenders have engorged the shelter’s population. Don’t blame the shelter -- this is a human population problem, i.e., too many people who are irresponsibile with the lives of others.
Despite being lovable, sweet and “an all-around great dog,” Spice was in mortal danger. But, the volunteer shelter biographer Judi Brown and others were determined to get some attention for her. We wrote about Spice and couldn’t shake her out of our mind. She has a special beauty -- the I-can-be-your-friend look. 
After the Code Red deadline passed, I found enough courage to ask Judi about Spice’s fate. Trust me, as a guy with a full-limit of dogs and cats, asking that question is tough. Many times the answer is not the one I want to hear. Judi said she’d check and get back to me.

The answer on the dog nicknamed “Miss Wiggles” came on November 16. Judi wrote, “Spice is going to get out alive as she has been tagged!”

“Who tagged Spice?” I asked and the answer was KSTAAR. The Kansas-based group also tagged at least two others that she knew of, Judi said. (Keep reading -- there are MORE tags.)

She put us in touch with KSTAAR Inc. and Laura Oesterhaus, a director with KSTAAR, replied that she’d tagged “Spice and 5 other dogs for a rescued called Town & Country.” Dawn Pointer and Laura worked to get the dogs tagged and saved. Lori McGee “rounded up the fosters for the dogs and she drove the last leg of the transport.”
[LARRY ASIDE: Laura suggested this: “Maybe you could write about the need for more fosters in that area. I know rescues that would like to help the dogs in the Mesquite/Garland area but they can’t find temp fosters nad most rescues can’t afford to pay for boarding while transports are arranged.” Yes, there’s your oh-so-important message: Without fosters, dogs and cats and other animals just don’t have good odds in North Texas. Get in touch with a rescue group and volunteer. It’s a blessing on your heart.]
Laura put us in touch with Dawn who told us the story from her vantage point. She said Laura sent her an email around November 5 “about all these Texas dogs that needed help, so I had Laura tag three dogs because I hadn’t worked with or rescued from Mesquite, and Laura helps dogs from my hometown of Pittsburg, Kansas. Then I tagged three more [Texas] dogs, so six were saved.

 “I saw beautiful young dogs that would probably find great indoor homes in Nebraska through Town and Country Humane Society, a no-kill, all-volunteer based humane society.  
“The Texas Lucky Six made it to Kansas and we are making plans to get them to Nebraska soon.
“Melinda Peinado, a rescue friend in Texas, knows Laura O, sent her this incredible write-up story about Spice and I wracked my brain how I could help her. I’m already full. I foster, too. Melinda put out a plea and had a foster home for her in Texas until I was not as full. Then, that night, I decided, ‘I’m doing it, I’m helping Spice!’ I told Melinda I would help her and I’m a woman of my word. Laura O tagged her.”
Spice will now go on to Town and Country in Papillion, Neb., to be put up for adoption, Dawn says.
“That’s how she got saved. I sent her pic to my friend in Ponca Hills, Neb., and in mid-December we shall see if that is her new home. 

“I have a huge heart and Spice needed to be tagged so I stepped up. I know we can find her a good home.

“We need TIME AND FOSTERS. I also tagged more of the great dogs at Mesquite, Texas, and they need good homes, too.

“I thought Sweet Spice looks like a ‘Nora’ to me.
“Town and Country ... ok’d me to tag the first six dogs, and that boarding bill to save the first Lucky Texas Six was $554.

“Spice is Lucky Number 7.”
You can see more Mesquite adoptables HERE.
For example consider these (3 of them are CODE RED for 11 a.m. Wednesday):


Sasha, 2, adopted from Mesquite when she was a puppy, ended up at Dallas Animal Services and was sent back to Mesquite where she waits. Ask about 32014438, a dog who is an “absolute delight” and “wiggles all over with excitement just to be in your presence.”
Simba, a 2 or 3-year-old Min-Pin/Chi mix is on the CODE RED list for 11 a.m. Wednesday. Surrendered on 11/17 “because his owners had a change of lifestyle.” Ask about 40194603. 

EVIE (left), a Boxer/Retriever mix who arrived as a stray on the 6th, is on the CODE RED list for 11 a.m. Wednesday, as is the young guy Ollie. Evie weighs 66 pounds and Ollie is 65. Both are pretty, affectionate and playful. Evie is 40105665 and Ollie is 40091709. For any of these Mesquite animals, call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.

[LARRY ASIDE: Ladies and gents, there are bound to be foster homes and adoptive homes in Dallas/Fort Worth, a region with around 7.5 million people. With spaying and neutering and responsible owners, we ought to have to fly adoptables in from other states, but that, sadly, is not the case. Rescuers, advocates and officials are working on promoting those elements. It all depends on opening receptive hearts and heads in the Metrosprawl. Like the Dallas slogan goes, “Big Things Happen Here.” Sometimes the big things are good, sometimes the big things are mystifying euthanasia and surrender stats in local shelters.]

THEY’RE NOT ALL IN THE
METROSPRAWL

Yep, here are two that aren’t close enough to Dallas to be kept awake by the traffic. We’ll do the dog first, then the cat.
RINGO, SADDEST FACE IN THE LONE STAR STATE?
Oh, goodness . Get this story. It was forward to us by Karen Lee, the barkleyworld.com animal advocate, who gleaned the original note from Susie Amerise. 
This is 4-year-old Ringo, “dumped at the Big Spring Shelter by his owners.” As of this writing, Ringo was in Kennel 4 and his sibling was in Kennel 5 (No photo yet on Five -- couldn’t find one on the Big Spring website.)
 Susie’s note said the two "have well over $500 in pledges ... Both like kids and dogs.”
 The email is AC@BigSpringPD.net. Call 42-2645-2372. [LARRY ASIDE: If you Google the Big Spring shelter, you’ll see a number of dogs and cats waiting for rescue, adoption or some kind of miracle.]
PRINCESS GRACE, A YOUNG, HARD LIFE
This note originated from one of our longtime contributors, Gail Whelan of CAN (Companion Animal Network) Adoptions. She writes that Princess Grace, a 14-month-old “delightfully playful and affectionate kitty”, was “saved from a dangerous situation where people were shooting cats.”
She also writes, that Princess “follows me around and loves to cuddle either on me or nearby. She enjoys napping in sunbeams and playing with toy mice, mylar balls and plastic springs. When she gets excited, she snorts, which I find adorable.”

To ask about auditioning to adopt Princess Grace, call 903-967-3226 or email can.adoptions@yahoo.com.
CONTEMPLATION
PRE-THANKSGIVING
Pumpkin pie. Cornbread dressing. Biscuits. Green beans. Chocolate pie. Carrots. Soy-based fake turkey. Lemon meringue pie. Wait -- that is not a balanced diet. Well, I’ll exercise starting Friday and running through Christmas Eve. Now, everybody hug, save some anmals, convince some people to become vegetarians and be safe. I’m thankful, Dear Readers, for every one of you and your dogs and cats, too! -- Larry

--- Click on "comment" below to offer opinions or solutions or email dallrp@aol.com ---

THE THANKSGIVING OPPORTUNITY; CELEBRATE MERCY; WILMER DOGS; WHITE LION

EDITION OF TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2018 [PetPowellPress] Ten days left in November after this edition. Must we move this month so swiftly? Is there an enjoyable pace in a traditionally full holiday week? Ommm. Ommm. Ommm. That slow it a little? 
If you want to really slow things, go stand in a grocery store line on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Too many shoppers make it seem like your standing in line to get a driver’s license. Or counting votes in Florida, maybe. Here’s Larry’s Rule: I no go to grocery store on the day before Thanksgiving. Life’s too short and the lines aren’t.
Stay home and watch TV with a dog or cat -- that’ll make the speed of the universe proper.
Now, here are a couple of properly autumnal faces -- dominant orange and colorful and available. Flower the Cat is just over 2 and Marlow the Beagle mix boy, is just six months old. East Lake Pet Orphanage is the place to ask about them -- go to eastlakedallas.com or stop by the Orphanage at 10101 E. Northwest Highway in Dallas. 
[LARRY NOTE: You have to be careful with what you and your pals watch on TV. Their systems are sensitive and a Dallas Cowboys game has way too many roller coaster moments. Avoid the news, too. Heck, watch old movies and eat popcorn.]

WHAT HAS HAPPENED
TO A SHELTER EARHOUND
Patty Sprong, the constant foster, tipped us to the latest chapter in the life of this Earhound, Mercy, currently in the care of Animal Rescue of Texas. 
The story began “Mercy Monday” in a posting by ART. Then the story reads, “This adorable pup has come a long way from her humble beginnings at Dallas Animal Services. Mercy is about 3 months old, and we think she might be a Shepherd/Lab mix, may- be with a little bat thrown in!
"She is an extremely sweet, smart, curious little girl who has loved every person and dog she’s met. She is going to make someone a wonderful companion.
"If you think that someone might be you, click here for more information,"

AS THANKSGIVING APPROACHES,
DOGS THAT’LL MAKE YOU GRATEFUL
Of course, right now is the perfect time to bring new dogs into your home. You’ll have time off, you’ll have extra treats and you’ll be in need of a lovable companion who doesn't care if Washington surprises Dallas on Thanksgiving.
What? Oh, yeah, those circumstances and the happy dog will work every day -- well beyond the holiday season. But it’s nice to have a dog or a cat sharing the couch with you. But first, you have to save them from the needle.
These dogs are in the Wilmer Animal Shelter, the small, low-to-no adoptor traffic facility run by the City of Wilmer. As the note from the volunteer Wilmer Shelter advocates Laura Macias and Leighann Hayden reads, “Wilmer Shelter is a very small, very old shelter just South of Dallas.  They were a 100 percent kill shelter by heart stick up until we (3 volunteers) began helping 3 years ago.  Yes 100% kill.  And such a terrible way to be euthanized. It's actually why we decided we needed to do something and began helping posting these dogs. 
“This small city has a contract with Dallas County, so any dog picked up by the Dallas County officers (2) in the Dowdy Ferry, Malloy Bridge, Seagoville, etc. known dumping areas, or the City of Wilmer by their ACO, ends up at this shelter. Owner releases from Wilmer also come into this shelter.
"If you follow the stories on Dowdy Ferry, then you know many dogs dumped in that area are often not alive.  And these dogs are so fortunate to be found alive.  Which makes it just heartbreaking that any dog that has been through so much would be euthanized.  They deserve so much better.  And they are just precious.  We have helped at varied shelters in the DFW area in the past, but we have noticed something very special about these dogs - they just know.  They are sweet, and loving, and full of unconditional love. THEY KNOW WHEN YOU SAVE THEM - They are SO BEYOND GRATEFUL.  We hear repeatedly from people that have rescued and later adopted, that they are "the best dog ever." 
As you may realize, it takes volunteers to connect the shelter dogs to people who will love them. For any of these dogs or any animal in the Wilmer Shelter, call or text Laura at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.

In order of appearance in today’s item, these dogs are:

Melissa, maybe 8 months old, a Black Lab or a Lab mix. “Really just a big puppy,” the note reads and adds, “ADORES everyone.  Seems to have a very gentle and loving spirit.  Found off Dowdy Ferry Road so some miserable person probably dumped this very sweet baby.   Please help save this BEAUTIFUL sweet girl!
"
Jenna is an Aussie Shepherd, German Shepherd Mix whose puppies were taken in by a rescue and Jenna was left at the shelter. She’d been picked up by the county officer and delivered to Wilmer. Been there a while. Dodging the sad inevitable for about as long as is possible.

Barkley is a Lab/pointer mix who “adores people, other dogs, absolutely everyone. He has received first set of vaccs and was heartworm tested (healthy! YAY). Photographs dark brown and darker in some pics - this is the same dog.  Please help save him! He is such a sweet lovable boy and he would be such a great addition to any family.”

Ava, the Lab girl, is described this way: “Adorable.  Just sweet, and loving and precious.  Loves people, other dogs, cats, absolutely everyone - SO CUTE.  She is a really pretty girl. Tested for heartworm and is healthy!  Received set of vaccs.  Please help save her!”

Again, just in case you missed it the first time around: For any of these dogs or any animal in the Wilmer Shelter, call or text Laura at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com, Help create another good reason to be thankful -- get the dogs to safety for Thanksgiving.

CONTEMPLATIONS

THE DEER AND THE LION
For some reason, I’m fixated by deer this week. Probably has to do with the near miss of a highway-crossing deer in downtown Johnson City about one in the morning Sunday. Why anybody hunts deer -- or anything else -- is beyond me, but I’m that rarity: a native Texan who’s a vegetarian. 
I realize I can’t stop hunting, but maybe I can help stop one hunter -- have you seen the story about the auctioning of a white lion named Mufasa for a guaranteed kill in South Africa? Canned hunting. Hah -- that’s not “hunting” that’s “ambushing.” 
So, Mufasa is a rare white lion -- so what? Why kill any lion!
[LARRY QUESTION: Anybody remember that white Boxers were once -- and may still be in some places -- killed at birth? You can look it up. Start with Legacy Boxer Rescue, the local protectors of the breed, who have a page devoted to the White Boxers on their site savetheboxers.com. This guy, by the way, is available through Legacy -- he’s 3-year-old Mason, currently enjoying the affection of a foster family.] 

Here’s the NBC story of the global rise against this White Lion event. Here’s a story on the appeal -- this is from The Daily Mail. There are many other stories online about this bewildering plan, including this ONE from “Animal Channel.”
Why this lion's life matters more than others? It doesn’t matter more; it matters AS MUCH AS ANY LIFE.
[LARRY ASIDE: This is our white cat Simon, a flamepoint cat who beat the odds as a feral baby in Oak Cliff. We’re for saving not just the big cats but the little cats, too.]
I’ve lived for decades in a profession that involves a lot of witnessing of man’s inhumanity to man and beast. I’ve seen victims, I’ve seen the killers. The rock-solid truth I’ve learned from exposure to both life and death is this: Life is too precious to take in anger or for sport. 
Why add to the killing on this violent planet? Add to love and to life. Do something that’s really hard to do: Stalk the good side of yourself and keep it healthy.
 We’re not against guns; we’re against killing. It can’t be good for the soul, can it?
--- To offer an opinion or a solution, click on “comment” below or email dallrp@aol.com and, if you must shoot, aim at a clay pigeon or a paper target. ---

LUCKENBACH, ANIMALS AND YOU...

EDITION OF MONDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2018 [PetPowellPress] The weekend included something I’ve never done before -- drive from Dallas to Fort Worth to Luckenbach, watch a concert and drive back. Trip started at 11 a.m. Saturday and ended at 5 a.m. Sunday.
I felt like a ‘60s college student trying to get to Woodstock. 
Yeah, I don't get out much. Anytime I leave my Zip Code, it's an unusual day. This was a birthday gift from my little boy Bart, a bit of a guitar picker.
That’s the cat that has a bed in the middle of the Luckenbach General Store. I don’t know his or her name. And that rooster was wandering the grounds near the Luckenach dance/recital hall as the crowd began to gather for the show. I also don’t know the rooster’s name -- he did not join in with the concert.
Magic moment? When singer/songwriters Hayes Carll and Jack Ingram closed the show about 11:30 p.m. with the song Luckenbach Texas (Let's Get Back to the Basics of Love) and the audience joined in like a Baptist congregation at an altar-call and the musicians let the crowd fill the auditorium with their heartfelt, reverential rendition of the song. So, as you consider buyin’ some boots and faded jeans and goin’ to Luckenbach, we have these animal tales for you, plus some Contemplations.

HOW SMALL
IS A KITTEN?
The correct answer is “pretty small.” Here’s an example -- compare his size to that hand that’s holding him.. This is Riley (A10425090, available for adoption through Dallas Animal Services. He’s been a shelter cat since Novermber 12 -- is believed to be about 13 weeks old, according to his DAS online biography.
You can adopt him. Get in touch with the das PetSmart Everyday Adoption center at 972-281-1588, ext. 5. See more of the hundreds of unwanted Dallas dogs and cats at dallasanimalservices.org. Oh, and there’s one “other” listed, too -- Hazel the Rabbit, clearly an Earhound. She’s been waiting since September 22. 
Go to dallasanimalservices.org to see how to adopt Riley, Hazel or this 9-month-old Lab mix Lili (1046363) -- she’s spayed, has been at the shelter since October 4 and is clearly an Earhound. Rivals Hazel, don’t you think?


AN INJURED DOG
LANDS ON ‘CODE RED
Well, heck. How does this stutf happen?
How in the world does such a cute little guy like Cory wind up facing the needle at such a young age. He’s around 4 months, a Lab mix who came into the Mesquite Animal Shelter as a Stay on November 12, according to volunteer biographer Judi Brown.
She writes that “due to over crowding, but also need for medical care, Corky is on the Code Red List.” And, she reports, “He has seen our vet and has a broken or fractured paw. It doesn’t appear to hurt him as he sometimes puts weight on it. We were told he will need surgery and a cast. He also has two cherry eyes. Now other than that this is one of the sweetest dog you would ever want to meet. He loves everyone. He literally washes your face with kisses and wacks you with his tail wagging! He wiggles all over with happiness. He doesn’t tire of belly rubs. In spite of his broken paw, he’s very playful. You can see he has spunk. With his wonderful disposition there is no doubt he would be a fantastic family dog.”
His shelter ID is 40153899. Use it when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@city of mesquite.com to tag Corky.
When you follow this MESQUITE LINK, it takes you to the adoptables in the shelter. 
Those unwanted (so far) animals include this beautiful Boxer mix Evie. The 66-pound dog came in as a stray on November 6. And, Judi writes, “She’s very gentle and stays close when she’s not looking out the gate. I got the feeling that she was looking for the owners that did not come back looking for her.. She just had a litter.”
[LARRY ASIDE: Is it too early this week of Thanksgiving to ask “What is wrong with people? Why don’t they take care of their animals like they said they would?” OK, I’m going to concentrate on being thankful that the dogs at least find themselves in a shelter that makes an effort to expose them to willing, loving hearts that might find room for them or know somebody who needs a good dog or cat. That cat (39866967) is Mesquite’s Madam Meow, about 10 months old, spayed and available.]

CONTEMPLATIONS

MUSIC, MOTORING AND CLOSE CALLS
After driving from Luckenbach to the North Texas Metrosprawl during the deepest hours of the night, I must confess that I have this impression: There’s not a streetlight between Fort Worth and Luckenbach. It’s highway darkness, except in Marble Falls where a heavenly light shines on the Bluebonnet Cafe. 
Anyway, as we rolled through downtown Johnson City, sometime after the midnight hour, I was slowing to turn left onto a northbound highway when a deer ran in front of the car. Fortunately, I’d caught the approaching image in my left peripheral vision, hit the brakes and had slowed nearly to a halt as the little deer bounced off the front of my car, tumbled about 10 yards, jumped up and ran right into the path of the pickup that had been trailing me and had to swerve to avoid me. Mercifully, the fleet deer was moving like lightning and dodged the truck, too, then vanished into what looked like a city park.
 My son, Bart, believes the deer’s name may have been “Lampassus.” He was on the lam and did pass us.
Between that episode and the approach to Glen Rose, we saw two other deer that had not been so lucky. So, folks, if you’re traveling that route, be careful. Save the deer.
Back to Luckenbach: We were so fortunate to be able to see this evening’s concert. It opened with singer/songwriter Adam Carroll who was joined by his singer/songwriter wife Canadian Chris Carroll. They were followed by Jack Ingram and Hayes Carll taking turns performing their own songs. At the end of this show they each did a Kris Kristofferson song and then left the stage. They were “encored” back by these fans, and each performer did one number. They then closed with the anthem of Luckenbach, Luckenbach Texas (Back To the Basics of Love), written by Bobby Emmons and Chips Moran and recorded by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson in 1977 which is, let me get my pencil, 41 years! No telling how many times the several hundred people in the audience had sung along with it over the years. And, yeah, some of ‘em were livin’ up to the words of the song: “Out in Luckenbach, Texas, ain’t nobody feelin’ no pain.”
That photo? Shot with a cellphone while headed southwesterly on a road that runs from Dallas toward Luckenbach, that is a Hill Country sunset. A camera can’t do justice to the real thing. But there’s a lot of video of Hill Country sunsets on youtube. Ah, Texas, Our Texas. And, now, I'm going to get some sleep in Texas, Our Texas, all hail the sleepy in the state, of which I am one. I may be sleepy enough for two people.
--- Offer advice or praise for Texas by clicking on “comment” below or emailing dallrp@aol.com ---