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THERE HE WAS, IN THE STREET, AND THEN THERE HE WAS OWNING HEARTS...

For this edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap we are celebrating.
Not just any normal everyday thing but celebrating the acquisition of a cat. And not just any cat. Nope, this is one special cat.
His name is Hastings and he survived the “mean streets of the Metroplex.” Maybe just one street. Hastings Street in Duncanville. On October 4, 2021, I lifted him off the asphalt in the southbound lane of Hastings Street in Duncanville and he settled in my heart like he belongs there. I guess he does.
 There was no human yelling, “Hey, Mister! GIMME BACK MY KITTEN!” I looked around. Nobody had a cat bed on a front porch, nobody had a feeding bowl You know what it’s like. Unwanted kitten unattended and, if gone, well, somebody says, “Gee, that’s just too bad. I told that Momma not to get herself pregnant. Let’s go get a dog.”
This kitten was probably 4 weeks old when we met. I’d parked in the lot belonging to my favorite pharmacy, The Ben Franklin Apothecary, and as I stepped away from my car, I saw a little bundle frozen in the middle of the southbound lane. A tiny bundle. (That opening photo was taken right after he’d gotten all cleaned up. Why did he need to be “all cleaned up”?
 Each of his eyes was covered by a blueberry-sized gob of “stuff” that blinded him.
Still, as I'd approached, he'd skittered across the next lane and tried to jump up on the curb and run toward some shrubbery. Sometimes kittens are too short to jump up onto a curb.

But I can move like lighting if the distance I have to cross is no farther than from my dinner chair to the refrigerator. (That’s a heftyman joke.) So I caught him as he blindly ran for Lord knows what.
The bottom line is, I immediately took the kitten to the Pet Medical Center of Duncanville and those good folks cleaned him up, gave me some directions for his care and sent us on the way that day — we revisited several times to make sure Hastings, named after the street he was crossing, was healthy enough to live with our other cats. [That's Martha feeding him in the early days of the Kitten Challenge Experience. He wasn't our first hand-fed kitten, but he was maybe the wiggliest.]
Things worked out just fine — he lived in isolation (in a big crate in Martha’s bathroom. Yet, somehow, this immunity-compromised kitten developed ringworm. You don’t think these foundlings come into your life completely healthy every time, do you?

 Mysteriously, our oldest girl cat Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson also developed ringworm — right between her ears atop her noggin. To our knowledge, she and Hastings had never been in the same room together. Never met. Never nuzzled. Never breathed the same air. Ringworm, the Mystery Pest. 
Nobody else — no dog, no cat — came down with it.  (In that photo, long after treatments, Hast' and KLJ sack out on the big bed one afternoon.)
A proper number of months later, we transferred Hastings Streetboy’s vet care to Dr. Robert Norris and the good folks at Bridge Street Animal Clinic in Fort Worth. Fewer freeway miles between the cat and his vet. There, Hastings got his “key surgery.”
[LARRY ASIDE: Kittie Leigh was cured of second-hand ringworm. She never scratches and Hastings hasn’t had a single anxious moment about dating since his surgery and he never has “that special itch” that affects too many little boy cats in Dallas/Fort Worth.]
To the left you see Hastings asleep in my office -- I'm not sure, but I believe he was dreaming of being an Olympic diver and had curled up in that position before stretching out to enter the water without a splash.  I don't know what he was thinking when he crawled into my laundry basket with a pair of socks and a couple of wash cloths -- but he was out like a light. Kind of cute. He got a lot bigger than that baby kitten, didn't he!
Hastings is the youngest cat on our staff, but he’s got a little way to go before he’s declared “the sweetest.” He’s working on it, but I keep a box of BandAids handy because he’s still trying to grasp the concept of “put the claws away” when you want to play. I’ve given him a copy of “The Cat’s Claws and Peace in Our Time.”
He has the fluffiest tail we’ve ever had in on a cat in our more than three decades of rescuing and adopting the rascals.
So, you may ask, looking at this cat with the blue eyes and the fluffy tail, “What kind of cat is this?” And I will tell you. Free. He was a free cat. Now he’s a housecat. Foundlings rarely carry their official papers.
 He sleeps where he wants — except the bedroom. Has to be invited. Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson owns it.
Cured, she is once again my nocturnal comfort cat. We both are insomniacs, but while she’s trying to sleep, she can still purr. I cannot purr — while I’m awake, anyway. I say I purr in my sleep; my funspouse Martha argues that it’s snoring. 
Even at the age of a year, Hasting will not get involved in that discussion. And Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson, asked about snoring, shakes her head and walks over to the window, flops down and watches squirrels play in the yard.
So, happy birthday, year and a couple-of-weeks old Hasting Streetboy. You’re one swell cat.
[DEAR READERS: Please send photos and bios of your slumbering critters — dogs, cats, whatever— to dallrp@aol.com and we’ll post them in our long-running weekend feature, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. We love showing off your animals. We think it helps people decide to adopt dogs and cats. And it helps insomniacs believe they, too can get some sleep if they can figure out how to flop ’n’ purr/snore.]

— Offer sleeping advice by clicking on COMMENT below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put DOWN WITH RINGWORM in the subject line. —-

AN EXTRA EDITION: A SHAR-PEI IN RICHARDSON; DOGS ON THE CLOCK IN SAGINAW; & A VOICE, STARS & GRUB

EXTRA EDITION THURSDAY/FRIDAY SEPT 30/OCT 1 [PetPowellPress] We got the tip on this situation from Tami Kukla, the animal advocate who monitors several shelters, i.e., Dallas, Daingerfield and Saginaw.
This comes from the CODE RED post on the City of Saginaw Animal Services Facebook site.
It reads, “It’s official. We have 43 dogs in the shelter and are at Code Red status. These three dogs have to be out of the shelter by Monday, Oct. 3 at 5 p.m. …[The adoption fee has been] reduced to $0 in hopes someone will give them a chance. They have all been neutered, microchipped, have all of their vaccinations and Willie just completed HW treatment. If you want to adopt and have another dog at home, they must come to the shelter for a meet-and-greet. If you have any questions, please contact the shelter at 817-230-0460. If any rescue wants to pull, please PM our page or call the shelter.”
The link to the Saginaw facebook page is HERE. You can see a lot of adoptables. And that’s a bit of artwork the Saginaw folks posted on Facebook to explain the situation and inspire some rescues and adoptions. The artwork came with this text: “We are so over capacity that we currently are housing dogs in pop up crates. We HAVE to get some dogs out and we are offering an adoption special now until 10-31-22. Please come down and see if you might find a new best friend.”
AND ONE MORE SHAR-PEI
IS NEEDING A NEW HOME…
In today’s earlier edition we cited a Shar-pei mix named Roxy who needs a foster home via Paws In The City. As the evening arrived, we got a note about this “petite Shar-pei” girl Yuki, currently waiting in the Richardson Animal Shelter. She’s #22-0889D in Kennel 28D.
She came into the shelter as a stray on Sept. 19 and became adoptable on the 28th. Her bio on the Richardson website reads, “Yuki is a petite Shar-pei who most likely lived outside in her previous home. She is a bit nervous with new people and can be hand-shy and flinch when people reach out to touch her.

“She enjoys having her butt and chest scratched.” [LARRY ASIDE: That oughta give a true dogfan a lot of hope for a congenial lifestyle!’ Keep reading.]

“She has growled at our staff when they enter her kennel to leash her, but has not made any attempts to bite. 
“We are putting a no-kid restriction and a no first-time pet owners restriction on Yuki due to her fearful nature.”
So, the right person or persons to be the responsible, loving, gentle humans for this dog should contact the Richardson Animal Shelter by calling 972-744-4480 or visiting the facility at 1330 Columbia Dr. in Richardson. To LINK TO THE RICHARDSON SHELTER CLICK HERE.
CONTEMPLATIONS
MUSINGS
 MENU: TV, FRITOS & CHEESE
Will the new lower voice of Sheldon Cooper affect the ratings of Young Sheldon? New season’s first episode aired Thursday. Still a funny show. That's my cat Stevie Ray who has no idea what "The '60s" means. …
Shows I miss from The ‘60s: Burke’s Law with Gene Barry. The Jack Paar Show. Dark Shadows in the daytime. Feel free to add more by emailing dallrp@aol.com. And send photos of your slumbering animals to dallrp@aol.com, also, so we'll have a weekend edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap.
We don’t do politics at readlarrypowell.com, but we do take positions on American issues: Small Fritos are more powerful than Scoops. Yes or no? We offer no prize for your opinion. Best dip? If I were not on The Constant Diet, I’d say the pimento cheese from Kuby’s Sausage House & European Market in Snider Plaza on the western side of SMU. I grew up in a family that viewed pimento cheese as the Caviar of Bowie County. I’m sure your family had taste quirks, too, you carnivores! (Relax, I’m just kidding the non-vegetarians in the reading audience. Remember, my favorite vegetable is a hot biscuit.)
 And, yes, that is a photo of my sleeping personal canine companion Porche Noel giving us her impression of a properly bent Frito for dipping. Likes Fritos, too. Likes to pretend that canned catfood is a proper dip. "It is in my world," she once explained to me patiently, adding gently, "We're not all vegetarians in this house!"
—- Offer ideas or doubts by clicking on ‘comment’ or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put VEGETARIANS ARE AMERICANS, TOO in the subject line. —-

STATE FAIR; ADOPTABLES, FOSTERABLES SUCH AS ROXY AND A '62 MOVIE

EDITION OF THURSDAY/FRIDAY/SEPT. 29-30 [PetPowellPress] Some may see September 30 as the end of the month but there are a great many of us who see it as the beginning of a gleeful stretch of fun: The great State Fair of Texas. It opens Friday and runs through October 23. Not only is it a time to enjoy the fair, but you can also get a look at the great Fair Park and its Texas Centennial-era buildings. That’s a State Fair of Texas photo of Big Tex and that night’s crowd and, in the background the Tower Building from '36, the Cotton Bowl and a spaceship landing on the midway. 
Wait, sorry, that’s The Texas Star, at 212 feet, said to be the “tallest traditional ferris wheel in North America.”
What’s your question? Oh, Big Tex is just 55 feet tall. But he doesn’t go around in circles. And I don’t want to be on top of the wheel or Tex’s hat, either. [LARRY ASIDE: What can you expect? Someone in media will do a story explaining that Big Tex began life as the Santa Claus in downtown Kerens, Texas. Oops -- I just wrote that out of a years' long habit. Check it off the to-do list.]
CHANGING DIRECTIONS
FOR A MOMENT
Now, let’s talk animals — and there’ll be some at the State Fair, but today’s animals need a place to go! Remember, you can scroll back to previous editions of readlarrypowell.com and spot some animals still waiting for adoption or fostering. We also have some Contemplations, but no politics. I’m on my third cup of coffee — if these letters are too fast andseemtoruntogether, that’s why. Ommm. Ommm. Calming myself now.
SHADOW AND SHILOH,
TWO DOGS AMONG MANY
We’re continuing to make an effort to help Mesquite Animal Services reduce it’s available adorables population — dogs, cats, whatever they’ve got that showed up either being dumped or roaming streets of the eastern suburb of Dallas.

We got the skinny on Shadow from volunteer Mesquite dog biographer Debra Chisholm who describes this Lab mix as a “cute-as-a-button pup.” 
Shadow, about 4 1/2 months old and 25 pounds, came in as a stray on September 14.
Debra then writes, “Let me tell you all about her wonderful qualities. She's the whole puppy package--an exuberant, happy-go-lucky, fun-loving youngster with a moderate activity level.  She doesn't even jump on you!  She walks well on a leash and when led past dogs in other crates she did not react to their barking at her.  She knows the sit command and will do so for treats which she takes gently.  Though not particularly interested in toys or balls, she is interested in getting loving attention from a human friend. ... She would be ideal for the person or family looking for a young dog to train and provide a loving forever home in which she will be allowed to live inside with her people.  This little girl has captured my heart!”

Shadow is #51115112. Use that ID number when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityof mesquite.com. Same system for  making contact on behalf of Shiloh (#51153018) — we learned about Shiloh from volunteer dog biographer Judi Brown.
 She reports that “Shiloh LOVES toys and will entertain himself with them! When I put them back in the basket when we were leaving the room, he went and got them back out again!”
Shiloh is a year-and-a-half old, 25-pound, not-fixed Blue Heeler who came in as a stray on the 20th. The “very sweet” boy, Judi writes, is “also gentle, calm, laid-back, obedient, well mannered, loving, alert, fun loving, and playful. He stays close looking up at you for affirmation and for extra attention. He’s curious — and explored the laundry room. He’s sits for treats and takes them gently. 
“When I sat down he came to me and put his head in my lap. He was also generous with kisses. He walks very well on the leash! This Heeler heels!  He has been taken to the vet and is recovering from a URI. He also has dry eyes which he’s receiving medication for. He has had a head trauma from an unknown source. There’s a bump on his forehead. It doesn’t appear to bother him. Because of the URI, I didn’t introduce him to other dogs. However when he walked by other dog kennels he did not have a reaction. Shiloh  is a real prize and anyone could be very proud to be his owner. He would make them proud! He would like to be able to call you his family and as part of your family would like to share your house with you.”
As you know, the crowded Mesquite Animal Services Shelter has a website that lists adorable and adoptable cats and dogs. You can see the roster by clicking on the LINK HERE.
Lots of grown up dogs. Lots of not-so-grown-up kittens. And, there also are some adult cats. This one happens to have a “very Dallas name.” As in TV's Dallas. She is Sue Ellen (#50995309), a 2-year-old Domestic Shorthair Mix — small girl with black-and-white coloring and the ability to sit and pose in a city kennel. Because she meets the feline qualification, she is in the Cat Room. Use her ID number when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
IN THE MEANTIME, TAKE
A GANDER AT ROXY!
(CALL HER ‘FOSTERABLE’)
I saw the photos of Roxy before I saw the appeal for help with finding her a happy life! She’s one of many animals in the care of Dallas-based Paws In The City.
As you can see from Teresa Berg’s great photography, Roxy knows how to pose for the camera! Paws In the City is searching for that perfect foster for this girl.
Roxy’s bio reads that she is a “54-pound, 4-year-old Shar-pei mix with medium energy who loves to follow her person from room to room. She is good with other dogs of similar size and energy.” Her earlier listing on the Paws in the City website lists her as a 47-pound, year-old Shar-pei mix. So, you can see, she’s grown a bit and become very fosterable.
The note we got from Paws in the City reads, “She is 100% potty-trained, has good recall, sleeps all night in her crate and loves to lounge at your feet, in a doggy bed or out on a patio in the sun. She knows sit, place, down, and comes when she is called.  She is excellent on a walk and is non-reactive to other dogs.”
 She simply needs, the appeal read, someone to give “Roxy a place to stay while she waits for her forever home.”
To volunteer to foster or adopt Roxy, go to pawsinthecity.org and click on the adopt link or the foster link or — if you don’t have room at your house but want to help — click on the volunteer link and get involved. And this is the link that takes you directly to Roxy’s page.
CONTEMPLATIONS
BIG TEX, HOMERS & A MOVIE
The State Fair of Texas belongs in Fair Park in Dallas, doesn’t it! FYI: It’s the State Fair of Texas, not “the Texas State Fair.” Names matter, declared Laree Pal. Yes, that's a an early '50s version of Big Tex on the midway -- it's in the photo collection at bigtex.com. When you’re at wonderful Fair Park for the Fair this year, possibly attending a Creative Arts contest — painting, photography, collections, baking cookies, cakes, pies, etc. — you’ll probably spot many people helping the State Fair conduct those contests. They’ve put a lot of hours into organizing things so they’ll look right and run smooth as a city slicker’s electric car. For years, my funspouse Martha and I have watched these people work tirelessly and happily n behalf of Big Tex and the State Fair of Texas. They’re the greatest — probably inspired the opening song to that 1962 film State Fair. Rogers and Hammerstein’s salute begins, “Our State Fair is a great state fair/Don’t miss it, don’t even be late.….” 
OK, New York Yankee slugger Aaron Judge has tied the great Roger Maris’ title-holding total of 61 home runs in an American League season, consider these points: (1) Roger Maris, who won pennants with the New York Yankees and the St. Louis Cardinals ) should be in the Baseball Hall of Fame. (2) No telling how many homers Judge will add to his 2022 regular season total when he faces Texas Rangers pitching for three games in Arlington as the season draws to a close. Once again, Rangers fans, “Wait ’til next year!”
OK, ONE MORE STATE FAIR NOTE: About that 1962 State Fair film: Click HERE . Filmed (mostly) at the 1961 State Fair of Texas in Big ol’ D. If you watch the film, starring North Texas State University product Pat Boone and future Elvis Viva Las Vegas co-star Ann-Margret, look for the monorail in the Fair Park scenes. I mention the monorail in honor of the late Dallas City Council Member Max Goldblatt who campaigned to have monorails built for public transit. Dallas with monorails — that would have looked like the future even though it was an idea from the past. Instead, we got big yellow buses, and for a while, big pink buses with rabbit ears looping through downtown. Remember the Hop-a-Bus? Yeah, I hopped on and rode down the bunny trail a time or two. Never in a bunny suit.
—- Offer transit advice or diet tips by clicking on ‘comment’ or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put MIND THE MIDWAY TREATS, HEFTY in the subject line. —-

FOR MID-WEEK, A MONTH OR MORE OF OPPORTUNIES AND CONTEMPLATIN'

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY PM/THURSDAY SEPT. 28-29, 2022 [PetPowellPress] I looked out our kitchen window about 9:30 a.m. Wednesday and there was a dragonfly, illuminated by the morning sun, circling and darting about in the airspace between the previous owner’s Bald Cypress tree and the mailbox. No idea who’d send U.S. mail to a dragonfly at our address probably a catalog he’s awaiting. Also, I thought dragonflies were all hip to computer communication — who can fly like that these days without a chip in their system? No. I did not get a photo of the Anisopteran creature. Too quick the bug; too slow the goofball with a keyboard. While I do not have a photo of the dragonfly, I was discussing this later with my private feline confidant Stevie Ray, who I plucked from a flimsy mimosa branch when he was about 5 weeks old. As I spoke on the joy of watching a dragonfly, Stevie Ray said, “Watch this. I can leap and land and nod off with all the skill of a dragonfly lighting on a lilypad in a farm pond. Wake me Oh, and remind the Dear Readers to send bios and photos of their slumbering critters to dallrp@aol.com so you’ll stop whining about using Porche’s photo too often in Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap.” He’s a such a smart fellow. Oh, yes,. that’s Porche.
OK, here we go with today’s report — Thanks to hardworking volunteers with big hearts, we’ll look into shelters and into rescue projects.
A QUICK LOOK
IN DALLAS’ SHELTER
One of the most overly-populated animal shelters in the known universe, Dallas Animal Services and Adoption Center is constantly in need of fosters and adopters. Why? To keep from having to use the needle on so many animals betrayed by humans.
 For example, this cat is Luna (A1140588), currently in foster carr. She’s a 6-pound, year-old Domestic Short Hair with a face made for photography. To ask about her, call the shelter at 214-670-6800 or email dasadopt@dallascityhall.com. 
The shelter is at Westmoreland and I-30 on the western side of downtown Dallas. 
No adoption fee for Luna. 

And that brings us to Hula (#A1154608) —- this 8-month-old, 25-pound spayed pup needs a foster home. Her bio reads that she came into DAS as a “stray with crusty scabs and hair loss.”
DAS reports that a medical exam revealed that Hula has Demodex mange (“responding to treatment); “has an oblique fracture of the left femur” and needs “Crate rest 6 weeks; leash walks only. re-Radiograph in 5-6 weeks to assess healing.”
Why a foster home? Her bio reads, “Hula is taking longer to recover than expected and could really use a place to recover and get better. She loves being petted and is so cute .”
See more DAS animals on Facebook HERE and on BeDallas90.org which is also where you can apply to be the foster that babies Hula back to full and happy health.
MEANWHILE, IN SHELTERS
THAT QUALIFY AS ‘SMALL’
Yeah, they’re small, alright. But the population is always on the rise in the small, virtually unnoticed shelters on the outskirts of big ol’ Dallas. Those shelters and their animals are also the focus of 4-Legged Helpers.
We’ve mentioned Luna and Copper and Patch and Piper before, thanks to the hard work of Laura Macias and the Helpers.

The bio of Ace reads, “This sweetheart was found as a stray. The couple that found him liked him so much that they came back to play with him. They had brought him to the shelter in hopes his owner would reclaim him, but their hearts are breaking that such a sweet loving pup has no one desperately looking for him. Our hearts are breaking, too. Just look into those soulful eyes. Who will say yes to this boy…? 
And Fancy is Boston Terrier mix who is under a year old. Why is Fancy in the shelter? Her bio reads, “Fancy's owners simply didn't want her anymore, so they loaded her up in the car and brought her to the shelter. No one will ever know the exact reasons why they gave her up. She tried to be the best little dog she could be, but it just somehow wasn't enough. Now she is sitting at the shelter alone, so scared, and wondering how her life took this tragic turn. We know that someone out there will think she's enough. Cute enough, sweet enough, good enough. She will make someone the perfect companion someday. We will learn and share more about her as she settles in, realizes she's safe, and begins to reveal her personality. More to come about this cutie.”
To ask about helping the 4-Legged Helpers with these animals, call or text 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com. And the 4-LEGGED HELPERS INC. Facebook LINK TO MORE PHOTOS AND ADORABLE ADOPTABLES IS HERE.

MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE
THERE ARE THESE ADORABLES
Readlarrypowell.com is so fortunate to have two great Mesquite Animal Shelter volunteer contacts, the dog biographers Judi Brown and Debra Chisholm. That’s how we learn of the many, many animals waiting for adoption at the shelter. 

We picked this one to lead the item with because of (1) the opening sentence and (2) our all-grown-up granddaughter’s name. Judi opened the bio with, “Another name for Hannah could be Sugar as she’s that sweet!” [LARRY ASIDE: Our Hannah is also a sweetie — with a wicket sense of humor. Some say she got it from her father, Bart. No idea where he got it, of course.]
 Back to Hannah the Adorable Adoptable: Judi writes, “As soon as you meet her you know that she is very special. She is a 2-year-old, 40-pound brown and white Pittie that arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 9/21 as a stray. She is not spayed. She’s so calm and gentle you could take her fishing with you and she wouldn’t disturb the fish. She’s friendly, cheerful, loving, well mannered, obedient, and a people pleaser. She doesn’t know the sit command but you can tell by the way she looks at you that she wants to do whatever you’re asking her to do. … She is a diamond in the rough. I see her as a real cuddlebug as she’s such a sweetheart!”
Hannah is #51164482 at the shelter — as is the system for all animal inquiries, use the ID number to help when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
The dog on the left is Pearl and her sibling is Phoebe, the pup with whom she’s bonded. They came in on the 21st as strays with their mom (already adopted). Phoebe is #51168206; Pearl is #51168191. Phoebe is described by Debra as a “little live wire” who is, according to the Dog Scanner app, a pup with Terrier and Boxer “in the mix.” Phoebe is about a year-old, not spayed and weighs 28 pounds. 
Debra describes Pearl as a 2-year-old, 36-pound “adorable chunky little girl.” These pups have a lot of fun playing together and, Debra writes, “would certainly keep an adopter entertained.” 
Both are friendly, tail-wagging charmers. 
The report from the volunteer biographers included reports on Blue Heeler Shiloh (#511153018), Lab-mix Honey (#49985966, Boxer-mix Buster (#52276680) and Gulliver (#52276664), a Malinois mix. 
You can read their biographies by going to the Mesquite Animals-in-the-Shelter LINK HERE.
And at that site, you can also see lots other dogs and cats available for adoption including Aspen (we needed an autumn-sounding name) who is #50970230. She’s a year old, medium-sized cat who came into the shelter on Aug. 24 and is waiting for the right human in — where else — the Cat Room.
CONTEMPLATIONS
IS THERE A THOUGHT TODAY?
Have you adjusted to waking up chilly yet? Yes, there has been a big difference in the morning temps in North Texas. Rather have a gentle temp drop than a blizzard. Didn’t have to do a lot of thinkin’ to come up with that sentence. …
Best summer vacation I ever had as a kid? Easy. Railroad passenger train ride to El Paso from Texarkana (you loaded through a passenger car door in Arkansas and walked to your seat in Texas. The once-glamorous and well-protected Union Station was built so that the state line runs right through it. Nowadays nothing runs through it. Maybe some freight trains, Amtrak now and then and, perhaps, a vagrant trying to hoof it from one state to the other to avoid prosecution for dawdling. (Not sure dawdling is still a crime in either state.) …
We need a good song for this particular day. Here’s something from the Liverpudlian fellows from the 20th Century — in honor of a particular fan of dogs and cats I happen to know.
— OFFER SOMETHING SMART BY CLICKING ON ‘COMMENT’ BELOW OR BY EMAILING DALLRP@AOL.COM. —-

ZEKE'S CURRENT LIFE; ANIMALS WAITING FOR SOME HELP; WHAT HAPPENED TO THE "T"?

EDITION OF TUESDAY, SEPT. 27, 2022 [PetPowellPress] The load of odd emails continues unabated on my computer. For example, this morning I got the 2nd notice with this subject line “You have won an Club Car Golf Cart.” Immediately I write this off as a scam because of a grammar error: It’s “a” not “an.” If this were a genuine win of “an million bucks,” I wouldn’t take the dough. And why is that? Because I know I are right about grammar mattering. Even at this stage of the uncertain 21st Century.
A FOLLOWUP ON ONCE-STARVING
DALLAS SHELTER DOG ZEKE
On September 5 we posted a photo of Zeke the Starving Dog as he waited for the needle in Dallas. That’s the skinny boy — 5 years-old, 45 pounds and high EU risk because of shelter space and a “High Positive” Heartworm diagnosis.
People were already trying to rescue this guy when we learned about him from Tami Kukla, the animal advocate. 
And she tipped us on Sept. 7 about Zeke beating the needle at DAS. That’s a photo of the “painfully thing” fellow on his “getaway” ride.

Where was he going? To a Lost Ball Canine Rescue  foster home in Houston.
And that final photo shows Zeke with some extra weight on him and the other shows him as a happy non-in-a-shelter-but-in-a-loving-home situation.
Tami sent us a follow up note with info on how to contribute to Lost Ball Canine Rescue in the effort to make sure Zeke gets healthy and finds a good home. Tami listed these connections: PayPal: lostballcanine rescue@gmail.com; Venmo:  @JaimeLou-Fleming or U.S. Mail at Lost Ball Canine Rescue, 228 Lost Ball Road, Tallulah, Louisiana  71282
Tami also sent us a note about Zeke that began, “Like weigh-ins for boxing, our boy Zeke gets his chance to be Rocky Balboa. Zeke was emaciated and his body score was painfully low. You could see every rib. But he has such an incredible personality and shows what perseverance means. In 9 days he has gained 12 pounds through a specially tailored feeding schedule and routine. His coat is shining. He loves other dogs his size. And is getting to be a dog. …. None of this would be possible without the amazing team that advocated for him and saved him …  And his foster Lori. Supporting Lost Ball saves many lives. And did you know that daily they answer the call from shelters in Texas and California (to just name a few). In fact in a 48 hour period they saved 3 dogs from Dallas Animal Services that all needed medical. Those are super heroes in my opinion and they should be personally thanked by each of us and the shelters they support.”
4-LEGGED HELPERS
AND SMALL SHELTERS….
The challenges continue as 4-Legged Helpers keeps working on the goal of getting spotlights on animals in small shelters in the Metrosprawl. 
The Helpers are adjusting procedures in an attempt to get more eyes on these animals. You can see the hard work by visiting the Helpers’ Facebook page HERE.

[LARRY ASIDE: I’ve copied the latest Helpers’ post here, but you’ll need to go to that Facebook page to see more animals in need. The connections will help you help them. Also, to reach the Helpers and make a “tag” or adopt, call or text: 214-949-2726 or email: cat_girl_71@yahoo.com ]

MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE:
A QUARTET NEEDING HELP
Interested in helping one of these (or any dog or cat in the Mesquite Animal Shelter) use the animal’s shelter ID number when you call 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
Gemini [ID #51058064] is the first on today’s Mesquite list of adoptables. She’s about 2, weighs 52 pounds, isn’t spayed and came in as a stray on Sept. 6. Our tipster, the volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm says the Dog Scanner app “suggests American Akita, Jindo, Malinois in the mix.”
Debra writes, “She has such a pleasant personality, is friendly and is a-ok with receiving loving attention. She came in looking ‘wild and woolly’ and one of our volunteers spent some time brushing her out.  She stood straight and tall, and motionless during the brush-out.  Doubtless she felt better with some of that excess fur gone!” Gemini is good on a leash, house-trained, and “a frisky and spunky girl with a moderate activity level.  She is athletic and enjoyed climbing up and down on the play equipment in the yard.  Gemini wasn't interested in toys or balls.  She knows the sit and shake commands  She likes treats and takes them gently.  There is so much to like about this beauty and she would make a wonderful companion for some person or family.”
This guy with the BIG SMILE and the BIG FEET is Wizard [#51133563], a Pittie who came in as a stray on the 16th — he’s about 4, weighs 65 pounds and isn’t neutered. Debra writes, “This is one high-energy boy who is athletic and agile.  He enjoyed playing on the climbing equipment in the yard.  He went potty in the yard.  He doesn't understand his own strength and can get overexcited and will jump on you so would not be a good fit for a home with young children. Wizard would perhaps be a good fit for a home with adolescent boys who would play with him and work out some of that energy.  He thoroughly enjoyed stretching his legs in the yard and running around.  He seems to want to please but has possibly not had much training.” 

This dog with the well-lit ears is Penelope (#51133554) — Debra says the Dog Scanner app “suggests Carolina Dog and Terrier in the mix.” She came in as a stray on the 16th, is about 2 years old and weighs 40 pounds and, yes, is not spayed. Debra writes, “Penelope is an on-the-move girl who doesn't slow down much. She is confident and outgoing and has a moderate activity level.  She is friendly and is happy to climb on the lap of a trusted human friend and receive loving attention. She likes and takes treats gently.  Penelope does not seem to know any commands.  She walks well on a leash.  She is friendly and sweet-natured.  … Even though she has adapted OK to life in the shelter she would be thrilled to get adopted by a person or family who would stay committed and would allow her to be part of the family inside and provide plenty of playtime, exercise and training.”
Blue (#511090844) is a 4-year-old, 72-pound “Terrier mix” who arrived as a stray on the 13th. Not neutered, of course. Debra writes “He was so happy to be in the yard stretching his legs and running around and especially liked playing with toys.  He is passionate about toys!  He seems to prefer that to nearly everything else including treats and interacting with human friends.  He is OK on a leash.  Blue went potty immediately upon entering the yard.  He is friendly and likes attention but doesn't seek it out.  He is a high-spirited fellow, spunky and lively.  He seems a bit headstrong and determined.  Blue doesn't seem to know any commands.  Again, he is happiest and most content when he has a toy to play with.”
AND REMEMBER THIS CONSTANT MESSAGE FROM MESQUITE’S SHELTER: “There are so many wonderful dogs (and cats!) in our critically overcrowded shelter who could use a good home so please help if you are able.” Click on this Mesquite Shelter LINK to see the many dogs and cats waiting for loving homes. Among those kittens (those many, many kittens) is 4 1/2-month old Katniss (#50700232), a small girl who came into the shelter on July 19. You can visit this “Domestic Shorthair Mix” in the Mesquite Animal Shelter’s Conference Room. [LARRY ASIDE: My experience is that cats and kittens all love a good conference. Lets ‘em show off their executive skills.]
LOOKING FOR PHOTOS
OF SLEEPING DOGS, NAPPING CATS
Each weekend we post photographs and stories in our long-running weekend feature, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. We do, of course, need some photos of YOUR slumbering critters and their stories: Send the stories and photos to dallrp@aol.com. If you do not send photos of your animals, I will be forced to publish yet another photograph of my darling dog, Porche Noel, found on the porch at Christmas in 2009 and my loving companion ever since. She now has an agent, so I don’t know how much longer I can exploit her image before I have to start paying her. Thank you for your cooperation, Dear Readers. Your stories inspire other people to adopt and adore dogs and cats and other domesticated animals who nod off at your house because you’ve given them a safe, comfortable existence.
CONTEMPLATIONS
THINGS IN THE UNIVERSE….
You see the latest story about NASA sending a projectile to crash into an astroid six million miles away? What if, in way-off space, that is interpreted as an act of war? Guess we’ll find out. ….
There’s a certain style of talking now in which people drop the “t” sound out of a word. Over the weekend I heard a newscaster refer to the Russian leader as “Pu’in.” I don’t know why it’s so tough to use that “t” in a two syllable word. Don’t t’s me, y’know. I’m not from Ma’ha’an or Li’le Rock — I’m originally from ‘exarkana. ….
Changing coasts, we go back in time to 1982 with Moon Unit Zappa. Completely within the Contemplation themes of “different languages” and “Things in The Universe.”
—- Offer wisdom by clicking on ‘comment’ or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put LOOK TO THE FUTURE in the subject line. —-

A PEPPER UPDATE; CITING SOME OPPORTUNITIES; CONTEMPLATING THE WAY THINGS GO

EDITION OF MONDAY, SEPT. 26, 2022 {PetPowellPress] Pepper’s out of the Mesquite Animal Shelter. More on that monumental event in a moment. 

Here are some key Calendar notes: 
Checking on the calendar with Holiday Insights, I learned that Sept. 6 was Read a Book Day — anybody still working on that? The 26th is Johnny Appleseed Day — learn about that by reading a book. (That’s the cover of the 1949 Disney Golden Book, just fyi. Easy to read, I’ve heard.) 
And September 27 is “Crush A Can Day.” Yep, just crush an empty can. Ah, but the 28th is “Ask a Stupid Question Day.” I’ve celebrated that for years — and never restricted it to September 28. For example, here’s a stupid question on the 26th: “Will chocolate-chip cookies with an inch of vanilla ice cream pressed between them ruin my diet?” OK, let’s try to help some animals.
THE PEPPER SITUATION
GETS TO A HAPPY SPOT!
Last week we wrote about this guy Pepper, a long-time resident of the Mesquite Animal Shelter.
“Long-time” is an understatement.
As the weekend arrived, we got a celebratory note from our Mesquite tipster, the volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm.
 She wrote, “Pepper left today with his foster! We would love to give a shout out to Dallas Pets Alive for rescuing our sweet boy. 

“He was at the shelter for 337 days, the longest stay ever for a dog at the Mesquite Animal Shelter.
“He managed to stay sweet, patient and loving that entire time! Would love it if you could post this update in your next edition."
And we’re doing just that with this item. Debra added, “We couldn’t be happier for precious Pepper!!!! This is Pepper with his foster. We are certainly hoping for a foster fail!”
Yep, two fellows who are meant for each other -- time will quickly tell. Looks good so far.
[WE HAVE MORE MESQUITE ANIMALS IN A MOMENT]
A NOTE FROM OUT AT THE LAKE
ABOUT DUCHESS THE CAT
Pretty and regal simultaneously, isn’t she! 
The email we got from Sydney Busch of Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake had this headline “Duchess the cat ready for her new family!”
As you probably know, the Friends operate (so to speak) the World’s Most Successful Spay/Neuter Clinic at Gun Barrel City, Texas. 

The note about this glorious cat reads, “Duchess has been fixed and microchipped and is ready for her new home.”
The email contact is j_and_dwick@yahoo.com.
 Or, you can get in touch with Kaufman-based Furry Friendzy Animal Rescue and Wildlife Rehab by clicking HERE.  There’s a clickspot for the adoption application.
MEANWHILE BACK
AT MESQUITE’S SHELTER
Our pal Judi Brown, volunteer dog biographer at Mesquite Animal Services, sent us a couple of dog notes — one is about Shelby, the other about Tess.

Regarding Shelby, Judi writes, “If the shelter was passing out happy pills I would’ve thought Shelby had taken one. It’s a case for the tail wags the dog. She’s so happy to see you that her joy is infectious. She is a 1-!/2-year-old striking  tricolored Pittie that arrived at the Mesquite Shelter on 9/16 is a stray. She weighs 42 pounds. She is not spayed.

“I feel like if you could ask her what she wants more than anything, I think her answer would be to be loved. She didn’t even explore the yard as she stayed close wiggling all the time and looking up at me with adoring eyes. She would occasionally jump on me but immediately got down when told to do so. … She wants to please. She sits for treats and is highly motivated by them. This being the case she should be easily trainable. She is alert and curious. She chased balls and toys but didn’t seem to know what to do with them. She would just look at them and then come right back to me. When I sat down she came to me to have her ears scratched and gave me lots of kisses. Of course her tail was wagging the whole time!  … She would love to snuggle up with you on the couch at night. She even told me she’d watch the Cowboys games with you if you wanted.”

Shelby is #51133494 at the shelter — use that # when you call 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com. 
Same system for any animal in the Mesquite shelter, including this other acquaintance of Judi’s, a “bundle of joy” named Tess [#51150022].

Tess is a year-old, weighs 41 pounds and is a “brindle terrier mix” who was surrendered on Sept. 19 because of “her owner’s allergies.”
As Judi writes, “So, through no fault of her own she finds herself at the Mesquite Animal Shelter waiting for you. Her brindle coloring, her small stature and her standup ears make her adorable! Cute as she is, it was difficult to get pictures of her because when she got out in the yard she had a lot of nervous energy. Then, too, she stayed so close to me I was going around in circles trying to get pictures of her. She is definitely friendly, outgoing, sociable, happy and very loving. Her tail wagged constantly. She sits for treats and takes them gently. She was not interested in playing with toys and balls. She wanted to spend the whole time with me. … Because she is highly motivated by treats, and because she wants to please it should be easy to teach her not to [jump on a human in excitement]… Not only is she a cutie pie, she’s also really sweet.”
As you know, Mesquite has lots of dogs and cats available for adoption and rescue. You can see them at THIS LINK.

Among the cats is this nearly 6-months-old fellow Albert who we’ve featured before. Why is it important to to keep mentioning how to see the animals in the Mesquite Shelter?
The answer is in this paragraph Judi included in one of her dog biographies. It reads:

“Our shelter is overflowing now so if you cannot tag or adopt please network this cute girl. Also please send friends and family members to the Mesquite Animal Shelter to find a lifelong friend! Please tell friends, neighbors and relatives that we are bursting at the seams and have many loving companions waiting for them.”
CONTEMPLATIONS
ASSORTED MONDAY NOTES…..
Why does readlarrypowell.com usually close with some Contemplations? Because sometimes a person just grows weary of the sadness of dogs and cats waiting for rescue from a shelter, a yard, a situation, a challenge or criminal involvement. I have to find something else to think about and I don’t mean I spend time thinking about a way to turn off the “mayhem meter” ticking in the brain of any strong-arming Russian leader. Geezalou, that is such a disturbing situation. I stupidly thought that by 2000 mankind would have stopped dreaming up new excuses for going to war…
My girl Porche Noel can sometimes be found on her Dream Pad atop her Transcendental Rug of Contemplation and Anticipation — always expecting a treat. So, when I hit a rough spot in the process, I’ll turn and look at her. If she’s looking back at me, I know she either wants a treat or a song. And I’ll sing…I’m kidding. If I were to sing, she’d call her lawyer. …

The challenge of a daily website about dogs and cats is not that there are so many in a bad spot to write about, it’s that you worry that the message isn’t getting to enough people with great hearts and places to keep another dog or cat or dog and cat. Sometimes you have to be willing to proudly wear the label “ANIMAL NUT” in order to save the lives of deserving animals. And all animals deserve a human trying to help them live out a long and good life.
The kindness of humans is the only thing standing between this planet and the demise of decency and love for other good and decent souls — humans or animals. So, let’s put the nukes back in their rental storage units in Chernobyl and get busy loving one another in spite of tiny, insignificant political issues. Talk smart, don’t shoot. How’s that for an international bumper sticker?
—- Offer peaceful notions by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put HEY, ANIMAL NUT/PEACENIK! in the subject line. —-

EVER THINK ABOUT THE VALUE OF THAT CRITTER WHO OWNS YOUR HOME?

I don’t know how much you paid for your dog, but we didn’t pay a dime for any of ours. Doesn’t mean they have no value, right? .
You’ve probably got stories about the value of  the dogs and cats that you share life with. We’re going to cite some valuable animals in this edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. Very valuable.
What inspired this “price tag” review?
 During the week, an investment-themed magazine published an on-line story titled “The Most Expensive Dog Breeds In The World." 
Yes, an investment-themed publication. Of course, our dogs have always been wise investments that pay off with huge dividends. Just like your dogs, right, Dear Readers? Our dogs are, as the expert gambler say, “Money!” The dog food companies also say that. Don’t get me started on cats invaluable.
Because I have handy photos of them, I decided to focus on Kittie Leigh, William and Porche. You see that opening photo? That is from 2014 and shows Martha home from work and out-like-a-light on the couch. A young Porche Noel is on top of her just before nodding off and Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson is contemplating a landing spot to help Martha nap. 
Porche joined the household at Christmas in 2009, Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson arrived in Autumn 2011 and Martha arrived in December 1991 — she is the best-behaved of all.

William Powell, my office cat since 2018, sometimes joins Porche on her Pad of Peaceful Contemplation. A veteran at office work, William prepared the Uniformed Mammalian Assessment Forms for this edition. And the DOV Results (Determination of Value Results) were:

Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson: “Unanimous household vote declaring vast undetermined value to specific humans.”
Porche Noel: “Worth quite a lot in the intergalactic community.” 

And Martha: “Easily worth more than the total of the national debt.” (Her dog Dudley the Angel, right) counted those alleged votes and wrote the report.)
The value of that older near-human fellow with Porche in the sleeping photo (left)? The written evaluation from Porche and co-signed by several others in the household read: “Not worth two bits.” No one protested. [Below, you see Porche and William shoving each other off the Contemplation Mat.]

Here’s what set off this “How much is your dog worth” theme. And I’ll admit I was a tad miffed when I this story. When I opened the AOL link last week, this is one of the things I saw:
“ADVERTISEMENT
The Most Expensive Dog Breeds In The World
If You Look Closely You'll Understand Why These Dogs Are So Pricey."
I looked closely; I still don’t understand it. Keep “Chug” in your mind. 
Now, I did find these three breeds among the more than 100 cited in this report: The New Guinea Singing Dog  (Has a “voice” for “singing” — that sounds like something I’d make up, but it’s not), the Hovawart (comes from melding the German words for yard or farm and watchman) and the Chug — that’s a Chihuahua/Pug mix. [LARRY TRUTHFUL ASIDE: If you check the local shelters every day you’ll probably run into a low-cost or free Chug pretty quickly. Ironic that some people will work to breed dogs that just show up through irresponsibility in the Metrosprawl shelters.]
If you want to read about those “Most Expensive Dog Breeds in the World,” here is the LINK.  
And, FYI, the dog value story was first published in either late 2020 or early 2021 and updated on March 14, 2022. It was (again) posted online last week. This demonstrates why, when you see a story online, you need to check the source and the time of publication, otherwise you’ll be getting all breathlessly excited over something that happened when you were in third grade and missed it the first time around.
I'm hoping to write a book titled "RELAX LIKE PORCHE AND FEEL LIKE A MILLION BUCKS."
[DEAR READERS: Send photos of your sleeping dogs or napping cats to dallrp@aol.com and tells us their stories so we can spotlight them in our long-running weekend feature Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. You may be helping a Chug find a home by demonstrating the inestimable value of a domicile dog. Or you may convince an insomniac that he can get some sleep if he’ll quit listening to quiet cello music and stream Verdi’s treasured opera, The New Guinea Singing Dog Runs Away With Pagliacci’s Circus. It may sound better in the original Italian: “Il cane canoro della Nuova Guinea scappa con il circo di Pagliacci.”]

— Offer advice by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put DOGS AND CATS INVENTED VALUABLE in the subject line.  —-

FOR FRIDAY, AN EARHUND, OTHER RESCUES, A FAMED COCKER AND CACTUS JOE....

EDITION OF FRIDAY, SEPT. 23, 2022 [PetPowellPress] When I was a kid, you couldn’t watch TV for 5 minutes without seeing a Winston cigarette commercial. Now you can’t watch TV for 5 minutes without seeing a commercial for pills that’ll cure you or kill you, gutters that keep you off ladders or bathroom showers that can be installed in a happy half-hour. Thought I’d open with a viewing gripe. 
Now, here are some animals that need some help. We’re going to mention that Earhound Hamp. And the Groundhog of Autumn, too. Keep reading.
A PUPPY IN ATHENS
WAITING FOR A HOME
We got multiple notices about this guy and, maybe, by the time you check with the human, the dog will have a happy home. The puppy’s life has started out pretty darned dicey. Yeah, humans are trying to make up for the behavior of humans who abandoned this guy.
Here’s the headline. “Urgent! Stray puppy needs home or rescue — Athens, Tx.” (LARRY ASIDE: I prefer to spell out Texas. You can abbreviate the other states if you want.]
Anyway, the message reads, “Puppy 4–5 months old dumped on us 9/21. Australian Cattle Dog mix, about 15 pounds, very friendly. No history on this dog, but we must find a home for him or we will have to put him down next week. Any help appreciated. Dog is located in Athens, Texas; no room in local shelter.   Contact:  larrydale13@yahoo.com​.”
Succinct — and clear and threatening because of circumstances.

MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE
A COUPLE OF EX-STRAYS…
These bios come from our pal Debra Chisholm, volunteer dog writer for Mesquite Animal Services Shelter. There’s also a note about how crowded this shelter is. [LARRY ASIDE: Pass it on to everybody on your address list. Make calls. Ask for a special moment on behalf of animals at worship services! Prayers seem to be needed.]

First up is Annie, who she describes as a “high-energy American Pit pup that was picked up by one of our officers and brought to the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 9/9 as a stray.  Annie has been in protective custody since her arrival but is now available for adoption or rescue.  She weighs 27 pounds, is approx 10 months old and has just gotten spayed.  Annie has lots of puppy energy and personality.  She likes to play with toys and is thrilled to receive treats.  She doesn't sit for them on command but she is smart enough to "connect the dots" and automatically sit when she senses a treat might be forthcoming.”
Treat-motivated, needs manners training but “walks OK on a leash.”
And there’s this: “Annie is a friendly pup with a sweet nature.  She likes to receive loving attention.  Annie is housed in a wire crate (far from ideal for a young active pup) lined up with other wire crates in the hallways because the shelter is so overcrowded that we are out of regular kennels.”
Annie’s shelter ID is #51080199 —use it when you contact the shelter at 972-2216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
Same system for this girl Carly, #51090242, described as “an adorable youngster” who is “a mixed breed (Dog Scanner app suggests Australian Kelpie, Carolina Dog and Siberian Husky in the mix).”

Same story as Annie’s — officer picked her up as a stray — that was on the 11th. Shes about 5 months old and weighs 40 pounds.
Debra writes, “She is a delightfully charming pup who loves to play with balls and toys and will entertain you in the process.  She is a frisky, perky, spunky girl who doesn't jump on you even with her enthusiastic personality.  She knows the sit and paw commands.  She walks well on a leash.  She likes treats and takes them gently.  She is friendly and enjoys receiving loving attention.  Carly has obviously been well-cared for but like so many wonderful dogs we get at the shelter no one comes looking for them.  This is especially mystifying with this girl.”
Carly is is one of the wire crates where Annie is being “stored” while they wait for either a home, a rescue or THE needle.
THIS GUY HAMP
CLEARLY IS AN EARHOUND
Not really Hamp’s fault, but that is a distinct set of ears and the look qualifies him as a genuine Earhound.
We learned from veteran animal advocate Tami Kukla that Hemp’s been under the care of the Saginaw Animal Shelter. She sent a bio and other info on Friday.
The bio says 4- or 5-year-old, 100-pound Hamp “was a cruelty case” that came to the shelter “with a severe skin infection and ear infection, is HW pos and was in overall poor health.”
The shelter launched a “get him back to full strength” campaign. It wasn’t cheap. But, Hamp is in adoptable shape — he’s been neutered.
And, here’s an odd thing: The shelter’s bio reads “He had to have his ear canal removed, so he is completely deaf in one ear. His skin has cleared and he is now growing his fluffy coat back and once he is healed from his surgeries we can begin HW treatment. He is currently available for adoption with a medical contract that you will complete his HW treatment.|
Personality wise, the bio reads, “He cries for attention and hates to be locked on either side of his kennel and has learned how to bust through the dog door to be with his people. He is completely content laying in the front office all day as long as he gets to lay on you feet. He demand you pay the toll as you walk through the office and you have to stop and give him a quick pet. … He would make a GREAT family dog. He likes kids and other dogs and gets the most confused face when the other dogs won’t play with him through the fence.” 
The shelter is at 205 Brenda Lane in Saginaw, ZIP 76179. Call 817-230-0460.
THE NEW SHIRTS ARE HERE!
THE NEW SHIRTS ARE HERE!
I’ve been writing about Friends of the Animals’s fundraising shirts for years. These two may be my favorite.
As you know, proceeds from the sales will help support the wonderful work of 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. 
Our reliable Friends tipster Sydney Busch reports, “These great shirts are now IN! Each design is available in either color (while they last!). Sizes S-XL are $15. Sizes XXL-XXXL are $17. They are available at the Clinic every Tuesday from 6 a.m. until 4 ish and the Second Saturday of each month from 10-noon at the clinic.”
Follow the Friends and the clinic on Facebook HERE.
.
Or at the Friends website HERE. Call 903-451-4701 or 214-808-4701.
CONTEMPLATIONS
AUTUMN GROUNDHOG, ETC.
We live adjacent to a nature center and as Autumn’s moment of arrival occurred (8:04 p.m. Thursday), we heard the local Groundhog, Cactus Joe, come running out of the security door on his nature center burrow. He was gleefully shouting “HELLO AUTUMN!” Suddenly, Cactus Joe stopped, unzipped his fur coat, took it off, gasped, wiped his groundhog brow, shook his head and muttered “Autumn my perspirations, who are they kiddin’?” He then trotted disconsolately back into his typical suburban burrow and we heard him splash into his underground pool and begin singing along eloquently with Frank Sinatra’s version of Autumn Leaves....
I was reading along on The Rundown, our ol’ TV journalist pal Jeff Crilley’s daily advisory for editors and reporters and PR people for whom news is a mission. He noted that Friday the 23rd is Bruce Springsteen’s 73rd birthday. Once I’d regained consciousness — I thought he was still in his 30s. Like me and my high school classmates -- 
I kept reading The Rundown and came to the “On This Day In History" tip.
I found mention of a Cocker Spaniel. Yes. a historic Cocker Spaniel. On Sept. 23, 1952, Sen. Richard Nixon, in a bit of a political bind, went on national television to deliver what’s known to historians as his “Checkers Speech.” Jeff included this LINK TO THE CHECKERS SPEECH. Vice Presidential candidate Nixon deals with people and politics until about the 17 minute mark and then he delivers the story of Checkers, the Cocker Spaniel from Texas. [LARRY ASIDE: I can’t find a story revealing which city in Texas, but the dog was friendly enough for a Texas dog.]
—- Offer Checkers Info or Advice by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put COCKER SPANIELS RULE in the subject line, the spirit of my beloved Cocker-boy Inky suggests.—

BLUE GETS A LIFT FROM A RESCUE; OTHER CRITTERS AWAIT A GOOD BREAK; MONEY AND WORDS

EDITION OF THURSDAY, SEPT 22, 2022 [PetPowellPress] This is a photograph that inspires smiles at readlarrypowell.com. No. We’re not getting another dog, but, thanks to 4-Legged Helpers, this guy Blue is one ride closer to getting a new home.

In this photo, he’s on his ride outta the small-shelter-prone southern side of the Metrosprawl with the loving folks at I Am Dog Rescue. That was a Tuesday morning “Freedom Ride” photo, according to our reliable 4-Legged Helpers pal Laura Macias.
Blue, a year-and-a-half-old Mastiff/Bulldog mix, was surrendered to a small city shelter back in August when his human became critically ill and there was no one left in the family to care for this handsome fellow. 
The non-profit Helpers — this is their North Texas Giving Day link — hustled and hustled to find a place with an opening. 
That first photo is my new favorite picture of Blue — his “leaving town” photo. This second was my favorite until I Am Dog gave him a safe ride. The second photo shows the loving dog celebrating being adored and petted. And that’s the way all dogs oughta be able to live their lives.
For example, take this dog Lady. Somebody take her quickly!
We’ve mentioned Lady before, but she is an example of why there’s never any rest at 4-Legged Helpers. Lady is more than just a dumped dog. She’s the “sweet older girl [who] was seen walking along the road for days. She was just walking and walking and walking. ….She is in pain from just walking but she probably felt she needed to keep moving or die.”
 And, that’s the spot she’s in now. She needs to keep moving on out of the Ferris Animal Shelter or she may, indeed, get the needle. 
Laura writes, “She can barely walk and one rescue gave me a thumbs down and offered to give her some osteo bio flex. What is that going to do for her? She needs out — not meds! Kind of sad. Ferris doesn't stand a chance without help. As the ACO says no one adopts, they only come to dump dogs there.”

To offer to help Lady (and these next two) find that better life we all dream of, call or text the 4-Legged helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com. We first mentioned Lady a few days ago and also these two siblings, Copper and Luna.
They’re the pups who wandered onto a local schoolyard, played with the kids and when the school bell rang, the kids went to class and the dogs went to the Ferris Shelter. 

NOW, MOVING ALONG
TO DAINGERFIELD….
As you may recall, Daingerfield is a town in East Texas, about 2 1/2 hours east of Dallas on paved roads. (I’m telling you the roads are paved in case you are antsy about driving into the tree-adorned territory of East Texas. 
Now, we’re citing two particular animals of the many waiting in the City of Daingerfield Animal Shelter and we get to do this because veteran animal rescuer/advocate Tami Kukla has virtually adopted the shelter’s animals as a “good cause for good hearts.”

She provided us the story on Remus, that large boy dog listed as a Great Dane Mix. His tale from Tami: “Remus was a shelter transfer that was out of space. He was adopted quickly but then found abandoned. Luckily he was chipped to Daingerfield so they could go get him a few hours away. Big guy who just wants to be near you. Fan of the McDonald's burgers and nuggets.  Super power is his ability to make you feel safe and appreciated.”

Perhaps by now you’ve noticed this wide-eyed kitty cat. That is Violet, a black-and-white beauty. [LARRY NOTE: As people who live with black-and-white cats can testify, these felines are extraordinarily entertaining and curious. Adorable, too — my cat Stevie Ray talked me into typing that verifiable fact.]

So, the deal is Violet wasn’t alone at the shelter. She had kittens. But they’ve all been adopted and now, Tami writes, “It is her turn. Pump up the volume. She loves to have chin scratches. Her purrrr meter is awesome. All she wants is to be a lap kitty — and Temptation treats.”
We also got a note that captured conversation with these two Daingerfield dogs. It’s a little more informal (and endearing) than the usual critter note. But it’s sincere and it highlights two dogs needing homes. It reads, “Hey Kaya. Hey Lyra. Did you know today was National Chai day? …  Not sure exactly what Chai is? Well, Lyra it is this cool drink for humans. And at the place they have Chai tea they have puppichinos.  So what you are saying, Kaya, is if a human would come adopt us we could celebrate with them? Exactly, Lyra. So, humans we are ready...been ready since 2018.. that is a long time...help a pup out. Come Adopt Lyra. Come Adopt Kaya. Daingerfield Animal Shelter.” 

A “human who has met them” writes, “They are both incredible dogs and will love you forever.”
 To ask about any of these Daingerfield adorable adoptables, call the shelter at 903-645-2120 or email animalshelter@cityofdaingerfield.com.

REX, THE FOSTER DOG,
IS ABSOLUTELY READY….
This guy Rex is #A1149440 in Dallas Animal Shelter’s records — he’s been in a foster home since July 3, according to a note the aforementioned Tami Kukla sent to us. While some shelters would set a handsome fee for this guy, the City of Dallas will let you adopt him for not one dime. He’s free.

His foster says Rex is a German Shepherd mix who may have some Rottweiler in his family tree. She “tagged him on the day of his deadline and he is continually showing his gratefulness to be out of the shelter. He is extremely human-focused and very affectionate, I mean all of the kisses and hugs a big dog can give! He is 87 lbs of pure love and affection. He is dog selective and needs to be with very friendly, confident dogs. He is great with 2 out of my 3 dogs (1 male and 1 female). He does not care for my other male (who is anxious himself), but he absolutely adores my helper male (who is confident and reads dogs very well). He has a little crush on my female (who is very confident) and like to follow her around! He is extremely quiet, no barking or whining, he is low energy, and he is not picky with food at all. He eats veggies! Not a big chewer so doesn’t really like bones or hard chews. He is starting to gain interest in toys, too! He is housetrained and really loves his crate.”

That very focused assessment leads to the Foster’s list of what “Rex needs in his forever home: 
- a patient owner willing to give him the needed time to decompress….
- ideally multiple humans in the home to give him the love he craves and needs.
- a backyard, as he loves to be outside. 
- a soft bed and definitely a couch, as he has slept on a hard floor for so long. He is still getting used to what a bed is for, but would love to sleep in yours!”

Here is THE OFFICIAL DAS LINK TO ADOPT REX.
[LARRY ASIDE: Bless his heart — just make sure this next new home is the one that lasts forever.]
CONTEMPLATIONS
SHORT NOTES & MONEY?

As my fellow animal nuts have known all-too-well this year, the two hardest things to find in the Metrosprawl are homes for unwanted animals and money to fuel the effort. About the only way to get money around here is to play for the Cowboys or learn how to replace catalytic converters stolen off trucks and cars. …
One of my favorite quotes is from the British writer Samuel Johnson who, at some point in the mid-1700s penned, “No man but a blockhead ever wrote except for money.” As I draw this edition to a close, I am reminded of that quote by the fact that this year may be somewhere around the 20th anniversary of the creation of nobody-gets-paid readlarrypowell.com. I’d have to check the records. But I don’t get paid enough to do research AND write. …
Speaking of “write,” here’s some music for this occasion. CLICK HERE AND ENJOY THE LADS’ VIDEO.
—- Offer plot twists and cold cash (lots of it) by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put GRAMMAR MATTERS in the subject line. —-

PEPPER: WILL YOU SAVE THIS DOG? HE'S IN A CROWDED SHELTER AND ADORED

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 21, 2022 [PetPowellPress] Do I need to remind anyone that Thursday is North Texas Giving Day? Heck, google it and your favorite charity — your donation can save animals’ lives.
BUT FOR THIS EDITION
WE FOCUS ON PEPPER
Money can save animal lives, but so can SPREADING OF THE WORD about this handsome guy PEPPER. My assorted critter sources tell me that hearts are working hard to get this boy Pepper out of the Mesquite Animal Shelter. He’s a special case who has charmed many a volunteer and staffer.
And, as you may know, that shelter has been slammed by dumped and strayed animals for months.
Pepper has witnessed it all — he’s been in the shelter more than 330 days. Even had a near-miss of an adoption experiment. [LARRY ASIDE: This dog must surely have some worn-to-a-frazzle Guardian Angels standing between him and disaster. Help those angels out by adopting him.]
Animal fan Jan Chapman-Green sent readlarrypowell.com a note reading, “Larry, could you give Pepper a thumbs up in some way? Imagine that he has been in the Mesquite Shelter longer than any other dog Ever!! (You know he is adored to have been protected this long!!) Pepper is now in danger of EU. They can only go so far as they euthanize other dogs who have been there less time.” [LARRY ASIDE: That is the pressure brought on by people who don’t care what happens to their animals after they’re out of sight/out-of-tiny minds.]
Pepper is #48873989 — use that ID when you contact the shelter to save his life. He’s said to be nearing a “euthanize” situation because nobody’s wanting him. 
But that wasn’t always the case. He’d arrived as a stray at the shelter on October 14, 2021, and he was, according to his shelter bio, “passed over time and again” because he didn’t show well in the kennel window and he appeared to be “high energy.” But on May 14, 2022, the bio reads, “Our Pepper was adopted! You can imagine the excitement of the staff and volunteers (not to mention Pepper) when he was adopted. 
“Unfortunately, Pepper was brought back 5 days later and surrendered with the stated reason that Pepper is not a pup that is happy and content living in an apartment.” 
[LARRY ASIDE: Well, [EXPLETIVE DELETED], you have to hope that the adoptor made a genuine attempt at making Pepper happy. Adjustments take time with dogs sometimes. Maybe someone with a big heart and yard to go with it can step up for Pepper. Geezalou. This dog doesn’t deserve to die because human fail. None of ‘em do. Cats neither.]
So, Pepper is a Lab mix, about 5 years old and 73-pounds. Click on this Mesquite Shelter LINK
and you can go to Pepper’s biography and information.
Pepper’s biographer on Facebook posted an appeal for him. Catherine Montagno-Ludwick described him as a “shelter favorite” who has “now become urgent” — he’s been in the shelter more than 330 days, she wrote and added “could be euthanized at any day for space.”
 Catherine also wrote, “Pepper has ‘Black Dog Syndrome.’ He is Invisible and No One Stops to SEE This Luv!! Despite all of that, he is still happy and outgoing. AND HE IS ADORED BY ALL THE STAFF. … [Pepper] is dog friendly—loves stuffed animals —and walks amazingly well on a leash!…”
  
Catherine also wrote this for potential adoptors: “Desired Qualifications but not required: 
“Be financially stable so that you can afford to purchase new toys to play with.
“Animals (siblings) or Children would be WONDERFUL
“Having a yard to play in is a must and non negotiable.

“Must be allowed inside with the family and only be put outside to go potty, go for a walk or play with his toys. He loves car rides!!

“Would prefer to sleep in the same bed with his people or his own bed nearby.”
 And there’s this from Catherine, “As a result of his having spent the past 10 months confined to a small kennel, he prefers to not having to use one…. Please!! He needs to be allowed to watch Nickelodeon or the Animal Channel. Adopter MUST have a lot of love in your heart!"
Catherine’s note reads, “If you would like to apply, you must do so in person at: Mesquite Animal Shelter, 1650 Gross Rd, Mesquite, TX 75159. Between the hours of 1pm - 5:30pm. No appointment needed. Rescues please tag via email to rescues@cityofmesquite.com."

And Catherine wrote, “Please don’t let all the time that Pepper has lost be for nothing. PLEASE, THE ENTIRE STAFF IS BEGGING.”

CONTEMPLATIONS
‘NORMAL?’ & OTHER NOTES
I’m a sap — yes, I can’t get Pepper off my mind. Surely someone will adopt that handsome boy…Geez, what a fix!...
In the meantime, did you realize that Big Tex will celebrate his 70th birthday at the State Fair of Texas on October 4 — the fair opens on Friday the 30th. Already — yes, already it’s State Fair time. All the info — exhibits, contests, prices, games, etc., is at bigtex.com. You can even click on merchandise and find this “handcrafted glass ornament from the studios of Kitty Keller.” These are, the Fair says, “one of a kind ornaments …available in limited quantities.” And, according to the Fair, “No two ornaments are exactly alike!” $35 each if I read the Big Tex collectibles page right— I knew you’d ask, Fairfans....
THIS IS THE NORMAL NOTE: I got an email Tuesday from Dallas County Health and Human Services with the headline “West Nile Watch Update — Sept. 20, 2022” and and my covid-free mind immediately thought, “Ah, the good ol’ days.” Felt almost normal to read about plain ol’ bugs in swimming pools. Coppell (2), Irving (1) and the Richardson note read “75080 (1 pool), 75081 (1 pool) for a total of “5 new pools.” No flu reports in the email — yet. Too early? Or is it year-round now?…
All those new foods at the Fair?  Hallelujah! OK, I sensed -- miles away from Fair Park -- that there would be some things that would draw me in like a fat man on a sugar-binge. Fortunately, I’m beyond that, thanks to a team of doctors who encourage me to keep my mouth shut in tempting times. 
But, I swear on a stack of extra-syruped-and-buttered pancakes, if I were to suddenly lose my resolve and throw myself madly into one-man sugarfest, I’d be hard-pressed to not yell “I’ll take ONE OF EACH of the Cookies & Cream Mini-Donuts on a Stick and the Chocolate-Dipped Cheesecake on a Stick. Nope, let the skinny people enjoy those treats. I’m still looking for the perfect calorie-free, exercise-inducing dinner salad for vegetarians. Ah, give me a sparkling water and a head of lettuce any day of the week. Won’t even affect my mood. I swear on a stack of veggie cheeseburgers with extra fries.
—- Offer diet advice or condiment ideas by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put SOMEBODY SAVE PEPPER in the subject line. ——

DOGS AND CATS AND PEOPLE WHO WORK TO HELP THEM -- & A SNEEZING CAT

EDITION OF TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2022 [PetPowellPress] If I appear to be typing blearily — possibly even s l u gg ish ly — it’s because I’ve been awake since midway through the 3 o’clock hour Texas time Monday when I began watching the BBC report on the Queen’s magnificent farewell service. 
Purely accidental (though I was blessed to have seen the proceedings). My personal cat, Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson sneezed in my face and woke me. Yeah, I thought it was cute. Then, Kittie Leigh went back to sleep and I began my day.
Some may say that’s a drawback to having a cat — not me. I think it’s a tribute that a cat keeps up with your viewing plans. That’s me and Kittie Leigh during our private eye days — we were on a stakeout in about 2012, the year after she showed up as a tiny feral kitten and moved in with us. She’s a “Comfort Cat.” 
Moving along, let’s talk dogs. 

TWO SIBLINGS & ANOTHER DOG
WAITIN SMALL AREA SHELTER

That “another dog” is this girl Lady. She and Luna and Copper have been spotted waiting in the small Ferris Animal Shelter where more dogs show up than humans. No humans? No adoptions. That’s the reality.
So the 4-Legged Helpers tipped the non-profits followers to these three. The Helpers’ Laura Macias forwarded these bios.
Lady is a “sweet, older girl” who “was seen walking along the road for days. She was just walking and walking and walking. No one knows who she belonged to or where she came from or who cared about her. She had no where to go but she was walking. You can tell she is in pain from just walking but she probably felt she needed to keep moving or die. She is definitely older and needs to be out of the shelter and in a loving home where she can relax and enjoy her golden years. She has only the tiny kennel to call her own for right now.”
Luna (right) and Copper are young Lab-mix siblings who were found “running around saying ‘hi’ to all the young kids at a local school.” Were they threatening? Nope. “Just saying hello to everyone and being friendly,” the Helpers report. Also, “the kids loved them” but when the kids went into the school, the campus had to call animal control to get the dogs to a safer place than “wandering.”
And, as you may have guessed, no “beloved human they know” is coming to get them. They are listed as “unclaimed by owner.” So, like Lady, they’re needing someone to rescue or adopt them. 
4-Legged Helpers is working with smaller shelters and their animals — call or text the Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.
THE CHALLENGING STORY
OF HOUSTON MOM CARINA
One of our veteran tipsters Amy Poskey provided this astounding summary of a dog currently in Houston’s BARC shelter.
Amy wrote, “Sweet Carina is still waiting for her miracle. Bless her heart, she has been dealt a bad hand by first being dumped on the street with her babies, then going to jail at BARC, then having all her babies taken from her, then going to sick bay with a URI, then being shuffled back to adoptions and now she could die just because she is a Pittie and has been in jail too long. PLEASE save this angel and don’t let her die in jail!!!  Thank you!  Amy.”

Kind of a touching appeal, isn’t it. Look at that photo. Also grabs the heart. There are more than a thousand dollars in “bona-fide” pledges for the rescue that takes over care of Carina. To foster or pledge email estellefmackW@gmail.com. To ask about rescuing or adopting Carina, email BARC.Aid@houstontx.gov and ask about A1838388.
MESQUITE CONTINUES TO OFFER
GREAT EXAMPLES OF DOGS!
Meanwhile in Mesquite, we have the siblings Otto and Orion and the incredible Earhound Nala. [LARRY FYI: Personal thanks to Judi Brown and Debra Chisholm, two great dogfans who make sure we get the opportunity to tell people about loving dogs who need humans who love them. I’d give ‘em a raise if they weren’t already volunteers at Mesquite Animal Services. One of our whopping raises would just be a tax problem, you know?]
That first dog is Otto. He’s the brother of Orion. You can see the family resemblance in the photographs of the “strays.”
Judi writes, “Just look at Otto’s eyes. They look like they’re lined with eyeliner! He’s a handsome boy with great markings! He is a one-year-old, 49-pound Shepherd/Husky mix who arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 9/13 along with his 53-pound, same-age sibling Orion. 
The assessment of Otto, Judi writes, is he’s “very curious, investigated the yard, and checked the goings on outside the gate. He will need a fair- sized yard because he’s a big boy and will need room to stretch his legs. After he got done exploring he spent most of the time close to me. It was obvious he wanted human interaction because he’s such a loving fellow! He didn’t sit for treats as he didn’t seem to know what I was asking of him. … He went nose to nose with several dogs in the bay. He jumped back when one barked at him as he was obviously Intimidated! When I called him he came to me and put his head on my lap. I even got a few kisses! Otto seems to be a very happy boy. At times he even appeared to be smiling. He would be more than happy to be a member of your family. And you would be lucky to have him.” Otto is #51109235. 
His brother Orion (#51109233) “is truly a southern gentleman with southern manners!,” Judi writes. Like Otto, he’s a Shepherd/Husky mix. Like Otto, he’s not neutered.
And Orion is “tall and thin,” Judi says. She adds, “When I went to put a scarf on Orion he immediately sat down and was very patient while I was tying it around his neck. He’s friendly, sociable, and affectionate. He explored the yard. He will need a big yard because he’s a big dog. He also will need a secure fence. When he was in the shelter yard he kept checking the perimeters not so much to escape but to see what was going on beyond the fence. He’s obviously very curious. He was not interested in playing with balls. … He interacted with some dogs in the bay and was intimidated by one that barked at him. He jumped away. He sat for treats and took them gently. He came when I called him putting his head up on my lap. He’s very soft and lovable. He would make a great snuggle bug!”

Use the ID numbers when you ask the shelter about this pair and Nala [#51109876], too. Call 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com. 

Of this next distinct dog, Judi writes, “You’ll stand up and take notice when you see Nala! She's truly a majestic beauty! She is a 4-year-old, 65-pound German Shepherd mix that arrived … on 9/13 as a stray.  She is not spayed.
“Nala takes time to get to know you. I had to pass the smell test and even then she was cautiously friendly. At first, she explored showing that she’s curious. But for the most part she stayed close to me. It took patience, time and speaking to her softly for her to feel comfortable with me. With the TLC she warmed up and we became buddies! She’s well mannered. She sits for treats and takes them gently. She’s easy-going, laid-back, calm, and gentle. When I threw a ball several times she leisurely walked up to the balls and then walked away. She walked OK on a leash. … She did come to me for petting. I get the feeling once she gets more socialization and gets used to being loved on she’s going to be a real snuggle bug!”

[LARRY ASIDE: Geezalou, I don’t know who supplies Mesquite Animal Services with its adoptables, but the inventory is pretty darned cute and beyond adorable. What’s that? These dogs are strays? Dumped? Unwanted? Oh, my goodness. The dumpers and the don’t-care-let-‘em-stray people are an epidemic across the Metrosprawl. Ain’t no news in that sentence, is there, Dear Rescuers and Shelter Workers. You folks must be mentally numb all the time! Bless your solid-gold hearts.]

CONTEMPLATIONS
CHEAPEST CAT TOY, BAGPIPES AND PIRATES
Before we get into the World’s Cheapest Cat Toy, please note that the nearest Maple forest is around six hours southwest of the Metrosprawl — Lost Maples State Natural Area. I’m not even sure you can buy Texas-made maple syrup. Anyway, that solid fact about the Lost Maples moves us into our latest report from Andy Fisher, Executive Editor of our Eastern Seaboard Bureau on the banks of Indian Lake in Denville, N.J. The product testing for this report came via the Eastern Seaboard Bureau’s CEF (Constant Executive Feline), the always dependable Chloe (pictured with the Executive Editor). The other photo is Andy’s portrait of a Maple seed pod, i.e., the item he’s labeled “the world’s cheapest cat toy.” “And,” Andy reports, “There are thousands of them (at the bureau), gifts from our next-door neighbor and his majestic maple tree! Drop them down a stairwell or off a deck, and watch them spin. Better yet, watch your CAT watch them spin. Who needs a flippy fish? (Chloe finds hers confusing and off-putting) If you don't have room for more maple trees, gather up a few (hundred) of these versatile seed pods and put them to work as toys!”…
OK, bless the bagpipes and put them away. I heard them too early in the morning while watching The Queen’s funeral starting about 4 a.m. Monday. “Go forth into the world in peace….”, began one of the final messages at the service. Seems like a good thing to do. Somebody copy it and mail it to the Kremlin. [LARRY ASIDE: I watched the funeral like an American who’d found Queen Elizabeth fascinating since seeing movie newsreels of her coronation -- that would have been, probably a year after the 1953 wedding. It always took news a while to get to my hometown. Here's the British Pathe LINK.   And, I’ll confess, I was really moved during Monday's funeral video when the camera showed her pony Emma watching the procession. Then I really felt the loss when the camera found the two Corgis Sandy and Muick as The Queen’s party arrived. Yeah, I’m one of those guys who thinks animals can think and feel and mourn. I’ve seen it. …
And this may seem like late notice on my part, arrrgggh. But the reality is our ol’ pal Jeff Crilley, the veteran TV newsman and founder/president of Real News PR, bailed me out. He noted that the 19th is the annual Talk Like A Pirate Day. Jeff posted a key link in Monday’s roundup of trending stories, The Rundown. Here is that link — click HERE.  Some of those pirate expressions sound just a little bit Texan. Matey.
—- Swab yer deck and run this up your jib by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put Shiver Me Timbers in the subject line. —-

MONDAY BRINGS OPPORTUNTIES TO SAVE ANIMALS AND CONTEMPLATE AMERICA -- & FOOTBALL & A DANGED NEAT QUILT!

EDITION OF MONDAY, SEPT. 19, 2022 [PetPowellPress] Please mark this on your calendars (anybody still mark calendars?): Autumn arrives at 8:03 p.m. Texas time on Thursday, Sept. 22, and immediately the temps will drop into the upper 60s, leaves that survived summer will turn red and gold and fully-lit Christmas trees will emerge in area department stores. Oh, wait. Those trees (they're prettier than my photography) are on display at the Dillards in Northeast Mall. Yep, trees are already up in some stores — and the Texas Rangers haven’t even played a 2022 World Series game yet. Hang on. If Christmas waits for the Rangers to get into a World Series, it could be a while before the reindeer take flight. 
OK, seasonal wisecracks aside: My funspouse Martha and I have separate offices at opposite ends of our estate. Keeps me from bothering her with pointless conversation (We’ve worked together previously in office situations — she regards me as a worse nuisance than a fidgety cat tap-dancing on her keyboard. But, never mind my manners, read on…) 
You see that dog with the great face? On Sunday I walked into Martha’s office and saw that pup on her big computer screen. Martha helps prep the weekly newsletter/appeal for adoptions for Paws In The City and she had St. Gatsby on the screen. He’s an older dog — 9 years and 2 months, a Pittie/Staffie/Terrier type. No idea of his history, but this bio begins, “Gatsby’s got a personality that can light up this whole town!” Read more about him later in this edition.
IS THIS THE BEST CAT QUILT
EVER RAFFLED IN TEXAS?
How about the “front” of that quilt? How about the “back” of that quilt?
Sydney Busch, the longtime spokesbeacon for the Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake, wrote, “The ladies at the Gun Barrel Quilters Guild have done it again!  OUTDONE themselves, that is...Rhis fabulous cat quilt will make a wonderful present for someone - OR for yourself!  It's looks to be queen bed size -- shown are front and back…"
As you know, the Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake operate the world’s most successful spay/neuter clinic at Gun Barrel City, Texas. Hence, they are supported by what may be the World’s Best Quilters Guild in Gun at Gun Barrel City, Texas.
You can see the quilt in person at the Friends Clinic in Gun Barrel City. 
Raffle tickets are $5 each or 5 for 20 bucks, according to Sydney’s note. You can get them Tuesdays from 6 am. to “4 p.m.-ish” and on the Second Saturday of each month from 9:30 a.m. to noon. The drawing? Noon on Tuesday, Nov. 15. Got questions: Call 903-451-4701.
MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE
MORE ADORABLE ADOPTABLES…
We start with two dogs with traditional names and their stories provided courtesy of Mesquite Animal Services volunteer dog biographer Judi Brown. Yep, traditional names: Bonnie and Clyde — names once worn by notorious Depression Era bank-robbers, now belonging to a couple of darling dogs.

Judi writes, “Bonnie [#51054855] will keep you on your toes and keep you smiling. She’s a joy to be around. She is 4-month—old, 14-pound cattle dog/terrier mix that arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter with her brother Clyde on 9/6. “She’s everything you would expect a puppy to be. She’s frisky, lively, playful, fun loving, friendly, joyful, and affectionate. … She didn’t sit for treats, but she danced for them! She followed me around to the point that I was going in circles. She definitely wants human attention. She wanted to walk on a leash but she got all tangled up. That’s something you could teach her.”
Brother Clyde [#51054853] is also "everything you’d ever want in a young puppy!,” Judi writes. He, too, is 4 months old and he weighs 16 pound. They came in as strays on September 6. Clyde is “wiggly, frisky, playful, joyful, friendly, curious and everything else that goes along with being a young puppy. He definitely wants to please. He kept sitting for a treat to the point it was difficult to take a picture of him standing. He’s obviously highly motivated by treats and at such a young age already knows the sit command! …He would like to go outside in the yard to play but spend most of time in the house with his new family.  Remember, use their ID numbers when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.

One more 4-month-old puppy? Judi introduces us to Smokey [#51088040] who she describes as being “full of joy and it’s contagious!” He’s a 16-pound fellow who came in as a stray on the 10th — isn’t “fixed.” Judi says, “He is extremely curious. He explored every nook and cranny of the laundry room. He found toys and entertained himself with them. He particularly likes squeaky toys. He even found some towels in the laundry basket to drag around.” [LARRY ASIDE: Drags around the laundry? He’s already trained for life in our house — but we’re already full: Somebody else go get that baby!] Judi says, “He doesn’t sit for treats because he’s too energetic to stay in one place for very long. However he does dance for them. … He’s just learning about the leash. He doesn’t fight it; he just doesn’t completely understand it. … When I sat down he came to me. I even got a few kisses.”

As you probably know, Dear Readers, there are many, many animals waiting in the Mesquite shelter. And the shelter lists them at this website HERE. When you visit that site you can see several other dogs being monitored by the dog biographers Judi Brown and Debra Chisholm. There’s the momma Chorizo who is the mother of Windy (also waiting), the youngster Olivia, a senior girl Bella…And you can see a lot of cats, too, and as long as the three opening adoptables were 4-months old, we’ll follow the theme and re-run this photo of Samson, a kitten [#50237138], currently waiting in the shelter’s Conference Room.
MEANWHILE, BACK TO PAWS’
OLDER GUY ST. GATSBY
We mentioned this pup St. Gatsby in the opening because his photo caught my attention. I’ve never met him, but I live with older dogs and he’s an older dog. I go along with Tom T. Hall’s country song, Old Dogs, Children and Watermelon Wine. Never had any Watermelon Wine, but two out of three ain’t bad. And I love me some older dogs...daily. Good for the soul.
This guy Gatsby is 9 years and 2 months old. He’s large fellow, neutered and a Staffie/Terrier type who can be adopted for $100 loving dollars at Paws In The City. [PERSONAL DISCLOSURE: I’ve been writing about Paws In The City for decades — through the early years, then through my funspouse Martha’s tenure as president and through the wonderful era of her successor, the late/great/big-hearted  Mark Verma, bless his critter-loving heart. I don’t know if Mark had a hand in rescuing St. Gatsby, but someone can sure adopt this dog and dedicate the loving action to the memory of Mark. He walked the walk when it came to the mission of saving ‘em all.]
St. Gatsby’s bio says he’s a “fun-loving dog who absolutely adores playing games with humans and he’s a big fan of positive touch and all the snacks.”
Go to pawsinthecity.org to see how to adopt St. Gatsby. [When you adopt him, that’ll open a rescue spot for the next dog that doesn’t have a home or has been facing an awful situation.]
CONTEMPLATIONS
NO PARTICULAR DIRECTION
Many people will be (or were) up early on Monday morning watching the funeral of Queen Elizabeth. As this is being written, it’s been a pretty dignified event. I’m old enough to be geezerish and wish that America valued dignity and grace as much as we value freedom of speech and the ability to express ourselves. Don’t squelch those freedoms, but treasure them. It’ would be a quieter/stronger nation, maybe -- until we needed to get loud. …
I know someone who likes the Cincinnati Bengals because of their helmets, but at her heart my funspouse Martha was a total Dallas Cowboys fan right on up to the departure of Tom Landry. She’s not alone in that, I’m pretty sure. Me? I’m a North Dallas Bulls fan (North Dallas Forty by Pete Gent). Now and then I lean toward the Miami Bucks of Semi-Tough (Book by the great Dan Jenkins). …

Over the weekend I got an email with this subject line: “Cozy fall fires … we (heart) that feeling.” Ironic considering the number of not-so-cozy summer fires in the Lone Star State and elsewhere all summer. Pretty sure a backyard fire in autumn would be creepy as a crop circle in your St. Augustine.
—- Offer corrective behavior or lame retorts by clicking on ‘comment’ below or emailing dallrp@aol.com and put LARRY YOU’RE AN IDIOT in the subject line so I’ll feel properly humbled. —-

CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE DARLING SLUMBERING KITTYCAT KIND....

We present this edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap to explore one specific contemplation: During an election campaign, can any human relax as completely as a cat?
My cat Stevie Ray, the black and white gentleman with the adorable attitude, was asleep upside down in the living room floor when I snapped that first photo. 
At about 3 years old, he is a substantial cat and very affectionate. He is always happy to either nap or romp. And he can frequently be seen flopped on his back.
Suddenly, as I contemplated upside-down relaxed Stevie Ray, our youngest cat, year-old Hastings, padded across the rug. He pads with determination. Kind of a kitten stomp.
Not his fault. At about 4 weeks old he was picked up out of the middle of a city street. After an emergency visit to a veter, I took him to our house to tend to him. The reality is, he’s light on cat skills because he was raised by humans. We couldn’t teach him much about being a cat. Not teach him as efficiently as a mommy cat could, anyway. He has learned. And why?
Because in the past year, the other cats and the dogs and my educatespouse Martha have given him pointers. I figured if she can teach me, she can teach a kitten.
I've kept bandages of all sizes handy as Hastings has learned to use his claws with affection — for the most part. He does love to be adored, however. He’s approaching “cuddle status.”
As you can see in his second encounter photo, Hastings moved on with his fluffy tail. And, after making sure Hastings had left the “conversation pit,” Stevie Ray rolled onto his back and, once again, nodded off.
As this is being written, I have no idea where in the house the two cats have gone, but I do know that my Office Dog Porche Noel has been snoozing in her “Bed of Comfort Contemplation” aboard her ‘60s Hippie-era Flying Carpet of Mystical Consideration of Canine Ways To Bring Peace To The World. She swears she never has nightmares. She’s a very talented canine sleeper. Puts up with two younger cats who’ll sometimes run through a room and bounce off of her just for fun.

[DEAR READERS AND OTHERS, Please send photos of your slumbering critters to dallrp@aol.com. We love to present them in Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. You’ll be helping people decide o bring an adorable animal into their homes, helping animals get a loving home. You may also be helping insomniacs have faith that they, too, can sleep — if they can just get the right position on the living room rug. Remember: Never stare into the ceiling light.]
—- Offer sleep tips or chants for nighttime by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put “YOU CAN’T HAVE PILLOW TALK WITHOUT A PILLOW” in the subject line. —-

FROM YESTERDAY INTO TOMORROW, THE ANIMALS AWAIT RESCUE AND ADOPTION

EDITION OF FRIDAY, SEPT. 16, 2022 [PetPowellPress] I’m typing on a new keyboard while sitting in a new chair and so far my fingers are 100 percent in acccurisy. Dangit, where is that delete button! At least I haven’t fallen out of the second-hand Soyuz Sureseat Stargazer I bought from an alleged online Soviet Union Going Out of Business Sale in 1991. Whatever the provenance, these seatbelts work. More on that dog with the artist’s-creation face in a moment. 
Back to the new keyboard and chair.

Yeah, change is good sometimes. I am having trouble adjusting the back and neck pads on the chair but I’ll figure it out. Or I’ll train a cat to wrap itself around my neck and nap. That cat? Not him. That is young Hastings, the kitten I picked up out of a Duncanville street about a year ago. He volunteered to be my neck cat, we gave him a try out and he left in a catsnit because I told him he wasn’t fluffy enough. He thought I meant his tail, which is dramatically fluffy — but I was using “fluffy” in the sense of a comfy feather pillow. He wasn’t on the street long enough to learn what a feather was.
OK, let’s see if we can get some help for some animals and the people who are trying to help them! Here goes. Our rallying cry? “AWAKEN THE HEARTS OF THE DON’T-CARE MULTITUDES.” Hmm, too long for a bumper sticker, Won’t fit next to a political sticker isn’t the same mission of “FOOL SOME OF THE PEOPLE SOME OF THE TIME.”

ACROSS THE VAST ARRAY
OF TEXAS COUNTIES: BEAN
OK, that headline is a little melodramatic but what we’re after is a mellowhappy solution. The site to find Bean and the other dogs is many counties east of Dallas County.
Tami Kukla, who has sort of adopted the Daingerfield Animal Shelter as a “save ‘em all” project, sent us this note about Bean. Clearly Bean is a photogenic girl.
Tami’s note reads, “Bean will wow you the minute she meets you.. and she needs you to meet her ASAP. The Daingerfield Animal Shelter … is full and tough decisions are having to be made.” [Daingerfield, county seat of Morris County in “upper East Texas,” is about 160 miles east of Dallas. Back to Bean…]
Tami’s appeal reads, “This sweetie will be a great addition to your life. We need shares. PLEDGES. Foster offers for rescue. Someone to adopt. Pretty much anything. We really want this young precious girl to get to experience all life has to offer. She is considered CODE RED.”

To ask about Bean or any other animal in the Daingerfield shelter, call 903-645-2120 or email animalshelter@cityofdaingerfield.com.
And on the shelter’s Facebook page HERE  I found these adorable availables. That Phoenix looks like an artist’s creation. She’s a 10-week-old, 9-pound girl whose ID is #A51056147. [Check with the shelter before you go — somebody might beat you to these dogs! Fact of life. Not often enough. But still a risk that you’ll finish second in the dog derby.]

At the shelter, the female dog adoption fee is $85 the male adopton fee is $75. Why? Because the adoption fee gets you not only the dog, but a rabies vaccine voucher, a microchip, first set of shots and a spay/neuter voucher — any anyone who knows anything about the birds and bees and their “naughty bits” knows that it costs more to do the invasive spay surgery than it does to “grab, nip and medicate ” the boys.
MEANWHILE, THERE’S DART
WAITING IN FARMERS BRANCH
Why would a dog get the name “DART?” Ah, bus ’n’ train riders, here’s the answer. We get the explanation, from Tami Kukla, who also keeps an eye on dogs in Dallas County, not just in East Texas. In this case, she has focused on Farmers Branch and the work being done by that city’s animal shelter and adoption center.
The note she sent reports (as you can see in those merged photos), “Little Dart was living in a sewer near the Dart rail tracks.  When the amazing people at Farmers Branch Animal Adoption Center saved him he was on the tracks. This young cutie is only 30 pounds and is just waiting to meet you. He beat the odds thanks to those that care.  He is heartworm-positive but the shelter will treat for free.
“Some fun facts... Dart is enjoying every new thing he is learning. Everything is cool to him. So far a burger is his favorite but he needs someone to share some nuggets with and see if he might like those even more. He would love to go toy shopping and try different things that squeak and can be cuddled with. And he has heard that car rides are super fun and he is ready.”
Ask about adopting Dart by calling Farmers Branch Animal Adoption Center at 972-919-8770 or email animalservices@farmersbranchtx.gov.
Same contact points for these next two.

The Husky looking up through bars is Stoney, available for adoption right now. His bio reads, “He just wants to celebrate with dog friends and human friends.  Some of his favorite things? Running around the yard with his crew.  Waiting for treats and showing you how smart he is and always wanting to learn new things. Sitting by the door and ready to head out for an adventure with you and then curling up for a good nap.”

This Earhound is Birdie, more caninely listed as a “Collie mix” in the Farmers Branch Adoption Center. meet Birdie available right now for Adoption at the Farmers Branch TX Animal Adoption Center.  The bio for Birdie reads, “How has this one year old gone unnoticed? Collie mix and friendly with big dogs.  And loves to play in the water. Everybody needs a water buddy. Oh, and people, she will win you over the minute she meets you. All about love.”
MEANWHILE, AMONG THE
ADORABLES IN MESQUITE…
As we reach the weekend, we’ve got four dogs and three situations — yep, four dogs in the Mesquite Animal Shelter but two of ‘em are siblings picked up at the same time. Three incidents of recovery. Now it’s time for rescue or adoption. 
Remember, use their ID numbers when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email recues@cityofmesquite.com. 

Volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm notes that Zorro [#50466331] was first profiled when he came in on June 17 as a stray —nobody has wanted the year old, 43-pound, neutered dog since then. She writes that he “arrived in poor condition with skin issues and a cherry eye.  Shelter staff sent him to have surgery for the cherry eye and you can see how it has made him even more handsome.  The skin condition has been diagnosed as Demodex and he has been given a Nexgard and medicated baths. It is obvious that he was not well cared for by his owner.  However, that has not seemed to deter him from being a happy, fun-loving boy.  He is an 'on the go' kind of youngster, with lots of tail-wagging energy.  He does jump on you.  Obedience classes would be a great idea, as for any pup. Zorro is a youngster who needs daily enrichment--playtime, exercise and training. He is friendly and enjoys loving attention, when he slows down! … Zorro has a lot to offer and would undoubtedly make someone a wonderful companion.”

That brings us to the duo Jango (left) and Boba. First we’ll address Jango, picked up as a stray with apparent sibling Boba. Jango weighs 73 pound and is about 2 — not neutered, Debra reports. She says her Dog Scanner app “suggests American Bulldog, English Pointer and Olde English Bulldog in the mix.” 
Jango and Boba are kenneled together. Debra says she “included a photo of the two of them because they seem so bonded and it would be nice if they could be rescued or adopted together.” She also says, “it seems as though both dogs have been well cared for and yet no one has come to reclaim them.”
Jango, she reports, “is friendly and enjoys petting and loving attention from a human friend. … Jango is energetic and active and will jump on you so that will need to be addressed.  He has an outgoing and confident personality.  Jango loves balls and toys and it is fun to watch the two of them playing.  They are quite entertaining!” 
Jango is #51019178 and Boba is #51019252. 
Debra says the Dog App says Boba is “likely a Terrier mix.” He weighs 62 pounds, is about 2 and isn’t neutered.” Also, she says, Jango and Boba enjoy “tug-of-war together and play with toys.  Boba loves balls and toys and would keep you entertained with his antics.  He enjoys loving attention from a human friend.  He is sweet-natured. … There's so much to like about Boba.”

And that brings us to Carter (#51071763), a stray who came in on the 8th. Debra’s Dog Scanner App “suggests Alaskan Malamute/Siberian Husky in the mix.  He weighs 55 pounds, is approx 3 years old and is not neutered.  He walks nicely on a leash and when I led him past other dogs he did not react to them--even those who were barking at him. He did not seem interested in toys, balls or treats and doesn't appear to know any commands.  His primary focus was on exploring the yard and he had his nose to the ground so much so that it was hard to get pics of his face.  He is well-behaved, doesn't jump on you, is calm and gentle with a low-key personality and a moderate activity level.  Carter wasn't unfriendly but was just so intent on exploring that he pretty much directed all his focus and attention on that. … He was perfectly happy for me to pet his soft, thick silky fur.  I get the impression that Carter may not have been socialized much.  As with all Huskies, they tend to be escape artists so Carter will need a high secure fence.  This very handsome boy with blue eyes and a sprinkling of "freckles" across his snout would dearly love to get out of the shelter.”
See more Mesquite adoptable dogs and cats by clicking here.
Among the many cats and kittens is #50410245, a 3-and-a-half-or-so-month old, small, black and orange girl named Munchkin. She came into the shelter on June 12. And you can find Munchkin awaiting your feline adorations in the shelter’s Cat Room.
CAROLINE STILL WAITING
IN SAN ANTONIO
We mentioned the all-too-common challenge that involves Caroline and her human in San Antonio. Our contact in the story, Amy Poskey reports there’s been no progress in finding a home for this senior Heeler mix. 
Caroline’s human is as seriously ill as a human can get. Shelly Works is trying to help Caroline find a new home ASAP so her human can have some comfort at a particularly significant time. The deadline for finding Caroline a new home is September 23. 
Caroline is 8-to-10-years old, great with dogs, cats and kids, her bio reads. The contact point is Shelly at 214-995-3628 or email shellyworks7@gmail.com.

CONTEMPLATIONS
THE NEED FOR HUMANS
As we approach the weekend, keep in mind that what we write about here is a TINY GNAT’S EYE VIEW of the number of dogs and cats needing human help to get off death row alive in taxpayer-financed shelters all over the State of Texas. …
Remember this too: While you and I, Dear Readers, are already overloaded with rescued or adopted-from-a-shelter-or-non-profit critters, the key is getting the desperate cry for help with the animals out to the general public. Most of those people would just as soon not know about the number of animals waiting for the needle. . Spread the word as if lives depend on it — because they surely do. Your suggestion to a friend may save an animal’s life and give a human’s life happiness they need but never expected. Animals are magic! For example that photo of my office cat William Powell meditating on Porche the Dog's mystical rug just magically appeared! …
Here’s a good song for the day from the wonderful country singer Roy Clark. He recorded a fantastic song by the Belgian singer/songwriter/actor Jacques Brel and made it a hit in American English. The title sets the tone and the song may inspire personal recollections of romance and dreams. Get the tissue and CLICK HERE. Ah, Yesterday, When I Was Young...
—- Offer sighs and recollections by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put “TOMORROW MATTERS, TOO” in the subject line. —-

FROM DONATIONS, DOGS AND CATS TO DINOSAURS AT MIDWEEK

EDITION OF WED/THURS SEPT. 14-15 [PetPowellPress] Loads and loads of animal emails arrive at readlarrypowell.com. Among them this week? Call it a “clowder of requests.” Or a “flock of appeals.” Or a “boatload of critter requests.” A “herd of queries.” A “pack of propositions?” OK, I’m out of pretend synonyms and my office cat William is ashamed that I’d co-opt “clowder” and Porche the Dog pouted when I purloined “pack.”. 

What they all share is an appeal for help on North Texas Giving Day on the 22nd. We can’t possibly name ALL the animal groups that need the precious gift of spending money. But we can tell you how to find them. Go to northtexasgivingday.org and click on “Browse Organizations.” You’ll easily spot the animal groups and maybe some human organizations you want to help, too.

GALTx HAS THE DOGS, NOW
NEEDS KENNEL HUMANS ….
We ran across an appeal for help for Greyhound Adoption League of Texas and got the key information from GALT’s Debi Joynt. And to add illustrations to this appeal, we’re citing a couple of non-Greys that we’ve posted before, Nick and Nora, mistaken as Greyhounds when they were puppies rescued from a cruelty situation in Paul’s Valley, Okla. And we included another non-Grey named Shyanne — the 1 1/2-year-old Doberman/Aussie Shepherd mix came to GALTx from Washington County after being surrendered by her human. You’ll note that Shyanne has just three legs — doesn’t slow her down. And we’ve included an actual Greyhound — that relaxed fellow on the couch is 8-year-old Trevor, “surrendered by his owner in Oklahoma through no fault of his own.”
So here;s the deal with humans. Debi’s note reads, “Greyhound Adoption League of Texas, Inc. is in search of dog lovers to work as Kennel Care Assistants, for morning shifts starting at 7 am. The position will be 3 to 5 days a week, including some weekends, and approximately 4 to 5 hours per day. Compensation is $15.00 per hour.”

To apply for these key positions in dogs’ lives, email djoynt@galtx.org or go to the Indeed post HERE.

TEN ‘HOARDING DOGS’
WAITING IN EVERMAN
We have a longtime tipster in the Everman area, on the southern edge of Fort Worth, who sent us this note and these photos Tuesday. She wrote, “Everman TX shelter is currently holding 10 hoarding dogs that need immediate rescue.
"They have lived their entire lives in small wire crates now saved but only to be live in larger kennels.  They have never known freedom, love or a real family.
“All are vaccinated, dewormed & hw tested.  Some are currently altered. The shelter is overflowing & these dogs need a chance at life!”
To help these dogs, email NICKALE7@YAHOO.COM.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A RE-RUN FROM MESQUITE;
WILLOW AND OTHERS WAITING
This is Willow and she’s a re-run — been mentioned before in the appeals for animals in the Mesquite Animal Shelter. Our tipster, the volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm says the Terrier mix came in on April 8 — a while back. “I am updating and resending her info in hopes that will generate interest in her.” [LARRY ASIDE: As a veteran dog fan, i can tell you that opening photo, Willow is not at all comfortable with what’s happening around her — she was fresh to the shelter and probably so darned terrified. I’d take her if I hadn’t already taken in so many others. Somebody go get this dog and love her forever. Sorry — let my love for dogs type off-leash for a while.]
Willow (#49937088) is a year old, spayed and weighs 54 pounds. Debra writes, “We know nothing about her life before arriving at the shelter but it has an an uphill struggle since day 1 for her.  … From the get-go she was fearful and nervous, shaking continually and hanging her head.  She was placed in a kennel in the manager's office in order for her to get some peace and quiet.  After 2 weeks a compassionate volunteer committed to foster Willow.  She was able to bring her a long way from her terrified and nervous condition.  On 8/15 Willow was adopted but it turned out not to be a good fit (through no fault of her own) and in less than 2 weeks Willow was returned to the shelter and had regressed to the state she was in previously.  
“This we know from Willow's foster.  She is crate-trained, house-trained, is ok with children and other dogs and cats.  In fact, she seems to enjoy the interaction of another dog.  She walks quite nicely on a leash. Willow would seem to be a good fit for a person or family who works from home.  Willow will need plenty of TLC and patience, proper decompression (and it may take a while!) and a commitment for the long-haul.  This youngster has her whole life before her and such potential.”
Use her ID# 49937088 when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 ir email rescues@cityofmesquite.com. Same system for all these animals — use the ID number.
Debra writes, “This precious boy is Smokey (51060547), an American Pit Bull/American Staffordshire mix that arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 9/7 as a stray.  Smokey weighs 52 pounds, is about 2 years old and is not neutered.  He walks nicely on a leash and when I walked him past a number of barking dogs he seemed intimidated and just wanted to scurry past them.  He knows the sit command and LOVES treats.  He will sit for as long as you are willing to dispense the treats.  He is well-behaved, doesn't jump on you, is calm and gentle.  He isn't timid but instead is confident. He has a chill personality.  He likes toys and is a friendly, tail-wagging fellow.  He seems to have been well cared for and yet no one has come looking for him and it's sad.  He enjoys being petted, stroked, loved on and spoken sweetly to.”
Manny [ID 50898301], a year-old and 82 pounds, is said to be a Pittie/Cane Corso mix — he came into the shelter as an un-neutered stray on Aug. 15. In summary, this is a “pretty good boy” who sits for treats and takes them gently. Also, Debra writes, “He is a lively boy, high-spirited playful youngster.  He is athletic and agile and climbed up onto our play equipment in the yard.  He loves playing fetch and is quite adept at it!  He loves toys--especially squeaky toys.  It has been noted that he is protective of his toys so that needs to be kept in mind when interacting with him.” His energy level might rule him out of a home with small kids.”

And Debra includes this passage: “Our shelter continues to daily receive strays and surrenders and we are out of space. Though the staff works hard to create space to house our dogs, there is a limit to where all these dogs can be placed.  Therefore we need adoptions and rescues. Please assist Manny out of the shelter by networking or tagging at rescues@cityofmesquite.com, typing in the subject line TAG, ID 50898301.  If additional info is required you can call at 972-216-6283 or email at rescues@cityofmesquite.com."
That brings us to Katya [51060520] — Debra says the Dog Scanner app “suggests she is a mix of Siberian Husky, Jindo and Alaskan Malamute. The 2-year-old, not spayed, 47-pound Katya came in as a stray on the 7th.
“Katya walks beautifully on the leash and did not show any aggression when walked past other barking dogs,” Debra writes, adding, “She has a calm and gentle demeanor, is well-behaved--does not jump on you--and has a mellow, low-key personality.  She's a real doll!  She is friendly and enjoys receiving loving attention. …  There is so much to like about this little sweetheart.  As with all Huskies, a tall, secure fence is necessary as they tend to be escape artists.”
As a REMINDER THAT THIS SHELTER IS VERY FULL, here is the LINK TO ANIMALS IN THE SHELTER — lots of dogs and cats. 
Among the many kittens is this guy Benji [#58474240], nearly 4 1/2 months old and small. He’s in the Cat Room. [LARRY ASIDE: Benji, in this photo, appears to have bags under his eyes — he came in on June 18 and may have been spent night after night awake either fretting over his future or kept up by the nightly poker game the older cats host in the Cat Room. Probably just a handsome kitten waiting for a human who’ll love him. Aw, I made that card game stuff up. But here’s the Simple Cat Mission: Love the cat. I do it all the time.]
CONTEMPLATIONS
IDLE MOMENTS ON THE PLANET
Haven’t had a vacation in years, maybe in decades. The Big Bend is enticing. So is New Mexico. And so is Six Flags. Not sure which would be the least expensive vacation. …
Most interesting newspaper job I ever held? Courthouse reporter. You see and hear some things covering that beat. Was more interesting than politics. The people on the stand at the courthouse were sworn to tell the truth. Of course, these days the prevailing belief is nobody trusts journalists. So, yeah, who can you trust? I’ll ask my dog, Porche. She’s a straight-arrow of a mutt. …
Best meal I ever had on the road. I’ve never eaten on the road — a big bird always beat me to the platter. Never eat on the road — I always pull over and get a chocolate-coated soft-serve at the Dairy Queen in Hooks, Texas. That was my last meal away from the Metromenus. Now that I read that last word, I seem to recall that a “metromenus” was a prehistoric multi-armed, carnivorous creature who was the natural enemy of the sloth-toed pterodactyl. I might have mis-remembered my paleontological studies. I hope Roy Chapman Andrews can forgive me — I read his All About Dinosaurs book in the third grade — we had some wandering our neighborhood in those days in Texarkana — the Texas side of town. Arkansas side had those big prehistoric razorbacks.
—- Offer anything worthwhile by clicking on ‘comment’ below; or email dallrp@aol.com and put TAKE SOME TIME OFF in the subject line. ——

SAVE SOME ANIMALS; ENJOY AN ANIMAL PARTY; CONTEMPLATE A WEREWOLF...

EDITION OF MONDAY PM SEPT 12/TUESDAY SEPT 13 [PetPowellPress] As the week opened and moved along, thoughts turned to … who am I kidding. I haven’t had a turnable thought in years. Usually straightforward, i.e., “What’s wrong with the Dallas Cowboys?” Sorry. Reflex from the 20th century when it was a common question eventually answered with Super Bowls. Not sure about this year’s answer. It’ll probably be an audible. Moving along:
OPENINGS ON THE ‘STAFF’
OF 4-LEGGED HELPERS

It takes a team to keep rescue groups operating. Hearts and a team.
 As you may know, 4-Legged Helpers is a non-profit that focuses on rescuing animals in small shelters that have, perhaps, NO human foot traffic and no actual adoption programs. The mission is to get those dogs and cats into rescue groups that can help them find homes. It’s a daily project of “get some life-saving attention for the animals.”
Sometimes the 4-Legged Helpers’ critical need is human in nature. Leading Helper Laura Macias cites the current significant challenges as these: “Facebook and e-mail help.” Communication gigs for volunteers who can type and write and organize and be the voice of animals. [To volunteer to help, call or text 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.]
This work is key to communicating the needs, locations and challenges of the animals. And Laura also says, “We do need donations for North Texas Giving Day but so does everyone else, of course!” [Official North Texas Giving Day is the 22nd and here’s the link: https://www.northtexasgivingday.org. Go there and search for the non-profit you want to help.]
While these rescuers of canines and felines began their work a decade-and-a-half ago, the actual organization 4-Legged Helpers has been in existence as a 5013c since 2019. Lots of dogs and cats have been connected from a shelter to a rescue to a home in that time.
 As long as I’m typing about the human needs that help the animals, I’ll also include some of the animals 4-Legged Helpers keeps trying to get into a rescue group or a home. (The phone and email connections are listed above.).
That first dog is “Bulldog mix” Chance who was abandoned at a boarding facility more than a year ago. He’s a mature fellow at around 50 pounds and is described as “cute and sweet and SO lovable.” 

Ollie is that Aussie Shepherd mix with the curled up tail and eyes of different colors. He’s young and healthy and at the age of “wants to play and have a good time.” Knows some commands.
Baker is the sitting heeler mix who is a “very friendly, extremely sweet guy.” Catches his treats in mid-air. 

And we’ll close, once again, with Blue, the Mastiff/Bulldog youngster who was released to the Wilmer Animal Shelter because his human became very ill and no one could take care of the dog and the human, too. The dog is beloved. He just needs a new loving home. Or he's going to be...well, you know what happens to the unwanted. The deadline passes.
MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE:
ADORABLES ARE AVAILABLE
We’re leading off with this Mesquite Animal Shelter’s report: “The shelter is bursting at the seams so if you cannot tag or adopt please network and spread the word that we have many wonderful pets that are waiting to be saved!”

And we open with this dog Star. Volunteer dog bio writer Judi Brown writes, "Star is a stand out! She has gorgeous brown eyes that look like they’re lined with eyeliner. She is a 4-month-old, 36-pound Black Mouth Cur that arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 8/30 as a stray. She is already spayed. She’s also adorable, lovable, wiggly, sweet, and joyful. Although I could not interest her in toys or balls she loved scampering around the yard and seemingly was trying to entice me to join in with her.” The summary says shes well-mannered, sits for treats, does her “business” in the yard, didn’t show aggression toward other dogs.”
Star is #51012631.
Use the IDs for these animals when you contact the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email at rescues@cityofmesquite.com.

This guy Prince (#51055410) is, Judi writes, “a real prince of a guy! The shelter has him down as a retriever mix. My pet scanner said he’s mostly a Black Mouth Cur. Whatever he is, he’s truly a jewel! He’s got gorgeous coloring and captivating brown eyes. He’s got an equally wonderful personality. When he first came to the shelter he needed time to decompress. Volunteers and staff spent time with him and it wasn’t long before he learned that he could trust us. He’s very calm, gentle, sweet, and well mannered. He sits for treats and takes them gently. He came when I called him. He walks very well on the leash. … Since Prince is so gentle he would probably do well with well-behaved children. Because he’s so laid-back he would fit in nicely with a household that is also laid-back.”
This girl Lark (#50951798) was “abandoned in her home and picked up by one of our ACOs on 8/22.” She’s a 3-year-old, 52-pound gray and white pittie who recently had a litter. Judi writes, “Surprisingly (????) her puppies weren’t left behind [when she was abandoned]! This girl is a diamond in the rough and has so much to offer! She stayed close to me looking up at me wagging her tail almost the entire time. She sits for treats and takes them gently. She chases and plays with stuffed toys. … When I put her back in the kennel she gave me kisses. Lark is a very loving girl that deserves to be a treasured family member!”
That brings us to Judi’s report about Amos (#51038174) a 3-year-old Pittie with “crazy, wonderful ears that go every which way.” He’s 3, weighs 56 pounds and arrived as a stray on Sept. 2. Not neutered. And Judi reports, “He has some minor hair loss on his hind legs and concrete calluses on his elbows making me think he’s probably been mostly an outside dog. He’s friendly but not overly so. I get the impression that he wants attention but he’s not used to it. Even though it appears he may have been an outside dog he spent a lot of time standing by the door indicating he likes to be inside. So hopefully his new owners will have a yard for him to play in but let him ‘hang out’ inside with his new family. He occasionally jumps on you but gets down when told to do so. He does want to please. When I sat down he came to me and seemed to enjoy being petted! He was not interested in toys or balls. … Amos has a lot of potential and deserves to be showered with love. He has a lot of love to give you.”
You can see many more Mesquite Adorable Adoptables by going to THIS WEBSITE. You’ll see dogs and cats — grown-ups and babies. This cat is year-old Aspen (#50970230) — a domestic shorthair mix who came into the shelter on August 22. You can see her in the shelter’s Cat Room.
We’re repeating the key paragraph at this time in shelter history: “The shelter is bursting at the seams so if you cannot tag or adopt please network and spread the word that we have many wonderful pets that are waiting to be saved!”

CONTEMPLATIONS
ANOMALY; HOUSTON PARTIES; WEREWOLF?
Watching TV news Monday morning, there was a report that an “unexpected anomaly” had affected Blue Origin launch plans in West Texas. 
Last time I experienced an “unexpected anomaly” was in 1971 — unexpected twins, Bret and Bart. It was the pioneer pre-computer era of predicting the prenatal count and the amount. OK, let’s move on with today’s earthly report. …

THE TIP ON A BIG PARTY IN HOUSTON came to us from our pal Alexandra Kelsey. The organization is Loving Arms Pet Placement and as you can see on that poster, the mission of the party on Saturday is “WINE AND DINE FOR FELINES (AND DOGGIES, TOO).” I think this may be the only “Felines (and Doggies, too” phrasing I’ve seen on a fundraiser. Usually it's one or the other or dogs then cats. AK says, “Everyone tells me this party is very fun and even if you’re not a party animal you can make a donation in lieu of putting on your party clothes!” Then she asks, “Remember those times you were desperate to help a dog or a cat with serious medial issues, then Loving Arms stepped up to take that sweet animal?” The rest of that paragraph reads, “Part of the reason they can (help) is that they are also fabulous party- planners and they know how to have a very successful fundraiser.” Go to Loving Arms Pet Placement’s SITE HERE and you can get the $75 tickets. [LARRY ASIDE: You also can see the animals the organization is helping including that cat, Butter, who, I swear, looks like a DNA test would turn up a family tree with a zebra in it.]
|dle thought: Is the Jack Nicholson/Michelle Pfeiffer film Wolf (1994) the best werewolf movie ever made? I do have affection for 1941’s The Wolfman starring Lon Chaney Jr. (right) I’m periodically surprised there’s not a Werewolf Rescue in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. I don’t know why the topic of werewolves came up — may have been that big, bright post-midnight moon over the weekend. Something kept my cat Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson restless, staring out the window into the sprawling backyard. Looking for shadows that didn’t belong there. Cue the spooky music.
— Offer calming thoughts by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put IT’S ONLY MAKE BELIVE in the subject line. —

A MULTI-FACETED EDITION WITH ANIMALS, HUMANS & AN A.I. CONVERSATION

EDITION OF MONDAY, SEPT. 12, 2022 [PetPowellPress] Opening question: What does it say about me that on Sunday afternoon I could have watched regular season pro football but I opted for a re-run of Little Miss Sunshine? As some of you football fans and student psychiatrists consider my decision, I’ll move along to the animals who need help.

Remember this: We know exactly where a lot of dogs and cats are that need help immediately. Shelters. But now and then we hear of a dog who needs help but nobody’s quite sure where he is. Read on about Bandit.
BE ON THE LOOKOUT
FOR ELUSIVE BANDIT
This is one of those things that everybody walking with a rescued dog fears — slipped the collar, slipped out of his harness…..It’s not common, but it happens often enough to give a person nightmares. Bandit’s the dog who slipped out of his harness in the Far North Dallas neighborhood he and his brother Sunny, were being delivered for their “foster” lives with Pooch Savers Rescue.
Sunny’s doing fine and may even play a role in Bandit’s rescue. [LARRY FYI: My hope is that by the time you’re reading this, Bandit has been rescued. But, just in case he’s more elusive than expected…well, here’s the info.]

We got his story from Lisa Brooks, president of Pooch Savers. She says Bandit “was transported to our rescue a few days ago.  We are in the far north Dallas area.  Bandit was transported with another dog [Sunny].  We believe they're brothers.  Bandit slipped out of his harness in our neighborhood; he doesn’t know this area at  ALL. He was transported from a city a few hours away.  So he's TOTALLY unfamiliar with our area, he's a poodle mix, probably weighs about 11 lbs, sweet but, VERY scared.”
And, Lisa says that “he’s been spotted a few times over the past few days but, he's always running. You can almost call them feral — prior to being transported, they were running around in a field for about 2 weeks.” 
Lisa says the Pooch Savers have “a trap set up and flyers all over. The brother is doing well. We’ve got the brother’s bedding and other items that smell like him all over the front yard and we’ve driven around with him in the car.”

Not "if" but WHEN you see little Bandit in that area of North Dallas near the 5700 Block of Deseret Trail, don’t chase him. Immediately snap a photo of the dog and text it to 940-268-3789 or call that number and tell ‘em where you saw Bandit. Or where you’re seeing the dog would be even better.
[LARRY QUOTE: I believe this one with all my heart. Sometimes dogs are just too clever for their own good.]
MEANWHILE, IN SAN ANTONIO
AN EMOTIONAL CHALLENGE
We got the tip on this from veteran animal advocate Amy Poskey. The dog’s name is Caroline. The note from Amy begins, “This is so very sad, but maybe we can make a difference and give Caroline a new home so her momma can have peace of mind.  So, please read below, take a look at this beautiful fur angel, and contact Shelly Works if you can help.  Thank you!  Amy.” The contact is shellyworks7@gmail.com or 214-995-3628.

The forwarded note from Joyce Boeck summarized the situation with Caroline the Dog this way: “Her face will touch your heart!! San Antonio, TX Heeler mix! Her Mom is dying and this senior baby needs a home.”
And the note about Caroline from Shelly Works read, “This sweet girl needs to find a new home and family. Her momma is dying and wants to make sure this sweet girl has a good home before she passes.

“She is in San Antonio. She is a cattle dog mix and is 8 to 10 years old. She is great with other dogs, cats and especially kids! What a gem!!!! She has not been vetted lately but I am happy to help with that…Her mom will be moving soon to be closer to a hospital and her doctors. …I only have until Sept. 23 to find Caroline a home. Thank you,”
MOM AND THE KIDS,
DUMPED ON A CORNER
This happened not in Dallas or Fort Worth or some hustling, growing suburb, but in the East Texas county of Van Zandt — not far from the big metrosprawl. But, yes, dog dumping is a longtime curse in every county in the state.
We got the note about this from our pal Gail Whelan of Companion Animal Network. She’s hoping to help these three — Mom and two daughters (6-to-9 months old) find a rescue or even a home somewhere safe.
 The heroes are Gloria Barrientos and her husband who, the note from Gail reads, “found this little family after they were dumped on a street corner. They graciously took them home so that they would not be hit by cars…They already have several dogs of their own.”  Gail says CAN will pledge to transport this little family” to the rescue that can take them.” Email can.adoptions@yahoo.com or call 903-967-3226.
 [LARRY ASIDE: And if you know the person who dumped these pups, call a peace officer and el them who abandoned the animals, contrary to the Laws of the Great State of Texas. Don’t mess with Texas dogs. Or cats. Or any other critter.]
AN UPDATE ON AKASHA

& ON THE FELLOW BLUE
Over the weekend we got a note from Laura Macias of 4-Legged Helpers that this sad-faced girl Akasha has gotten a happy break. She was in the Ferris Animal Shelter because “she was dumped (by her owners who decided they could no longer take care of her) to the care of a person who was supposed to foster her. That person didn’t want to keep her, so that person just let her go! She was finally rescued off the streets of Ferris by the shelter personnel.”

Where’s she going? Laura says she’s been tagged by “a rescue who will take her in New York! YAY.”

Among the animals still waiting is this fellow Blue. He’s a young, neutered, Mastiff/Bulldog mix who adores people. He’s in the Wilmer Animal Shelter. Why? Because his human became ill and he needed a place to go. Blue is on the brink of having been in a shelter for too long — I think you may know what that means. Call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.


CONTEMPLATIONS
THE LIST; THE QUESTION & ALEXA

Yes, I watched a big part of the reading of the 9/11 names on Sunday. All these years later, all these wars and battles later, all this mistrust and mayhem later, human beings still spend time figuring out how to kill each other. Observation of these continuing notions helps me understand why there was a Great Flood. The Creator has limitless patience, but I have no doubt that human beings sure put it to the test. Think how much more beautiful this planet could be for all if we’d just seek peace and understanding and — sounding like a ‘60s throwback — love. Sure, some people aren’t loveable, but the key is, “Don’t let those clowns have bombs and rockets.” How to do that? There’s the challenge. …
More pleasantly: Regarding picking Little Miss Sunshine over a football game, I think it says I have a sense of humor that needs feeding. And I found the cast and the dialogue and the quirks in the tale amusing, touching and a little bit nuttier than a political convention, but not much. FYI: I love the movie but not enough to name a dog or cat after it. Name a cat "Miss Sunshine" and that's not a name, it's an ironic challenge. Now, this handsome boy is Dudley the Angel, named for the Cary Grant character in the Christmas film, The Bishop’s Wife — same character in The Preacher’s wife, played by one of the greatest film actors of the modern era: Denzel Washington. Three great Dudleys....
I was listening to some music Sunday afternoon, specifically, a few songs by Al Stewart (Year of The Cat is one of my faves). When it was over, I said to my pal Alexa (who spins my platters), “Alexa, thank you for playing that.” “My pleasure,” she responded, then added, “I hope you enjoyed your weekend.” I replied honestly, “Alexa, I’m nutty as a fruitcake” and she said, “I’m not sure about that.” I said, “Alexa, enjoy the Cowboys game” and she said, “Hmmm, I don’t have an answer for that.” Ah, wisdom from artificial intelligence.
— Offer music or reading tips by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put EVERY YEAR IS THE YEAR OF THE CAT in the subject line. —-

FOOTBALL SEASON ARRIVES; SCRAMBLE BEGINS FOR PLACES ON COUCHES....

Welcome to the weekend. Football season is underway and the Dallas Cowboys open their regular season Sunday night against Tampa Bay — “So what?” you may ask.

Here’s what: As we note in this edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap, you can see that America’s dogs and cats are already trying to pick their positions on the couch in front of the TV for the 2022 season. 
We re-arranged the furniture at our house a couple of weeks ago and, as you can see in these photos, there were some try-outs underway as the season approached.
The first time I saw that black and white cat, he was a smaller-than-tiny kitten, eyes barely open, clinging to a flimsy mimosa branch in a tree in our frontyard in Dallas's southern edge of Oak Cliff.
That was in 2019. During our three decades at that house, we took in many free-roaming or feral cats and a few dogs who wandered into the front yard and a few who made it into the back.

Stevie Ray was the last one we rescued from that site -- it was near Kimbell High School and we felt it appropriate to honor Oak Cliff's very own legendary guitarist/performer, Stevie Ray Vaughan. This cat is, thus, Stevie Ray Treeboy.
He was barely old-enough to climb, yet, there he was in the front yard, having found his way up the tree and out onto a scary limb. He was yowling loudly and that’s why I spotted him. There were no other cats in the yard that day. No mommy in sight. He was was a “feral” kitten with a loving attitude.
See that dark-coated tabby cat? That is my office cat, William Powell (left), who joined the staff in 2018 when he was a teenager. He helped me paint the wood trim on the outside of the house and decided he’d stay. He loves to be hugged and petted and now and then he'll bounce his forehead off my chin and look up at me. We're pals.
You also see that wonderful dog,Wednesday Louise “Wendy” Wagstaff Arden, Martha’s personal off-the-streets-of-Dallas rescue. She has tried out a couple of places on the couch. She and the cats co-exist quite nicely, no matter what the season.
 Heck, we all get along. That's Stevie Ray in the frame with one of his favorite pillows -- yes, he recognized the British Monarchy as animal-friendly.
Also,  Stevie Ray, who became William’s apprentice office cat, sometimes enjoys cat-napping on his pillow atop my desk.
That cat knows how to let his legs dangle without fear of slipping off his pillow!
That big white dog? Spot. Rich with irony, isn't it. Never got his last name. Had dinner with him one night. Conversation was lively and bright — the topics were such things as hair conditioners, contacts that make eyes sparkle and a discussion over whether, in the 1960s, pizza was a snack or a meal.
[LARRY ASIDE: Any Baby Boomers want to chime in on that pizza consideration?]

Alas, when we moved into discussing “Who was the best James Bond?,” Spot rose to leave. He said, “Too close to reality — my contract with a certain government agency does not allow me to discuss whether the Bond role reflected my own experience.” 
He was nice about it. Haven’t heard from him since. We may see him at the holidays — he apparently has a taste for Martha’s chocolate pie recipe. And, by then, the football season may be over -- for some teams.
[DEAR READERS: Please send photos of your slumbering critters and their stories (unless there are security agency concerns) to dallrp@aol.com and we’ll post it on readlarrypowell.com in our weekend feature, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Nappng Cats Nap. [That's my companion, Porche Noel, in her "spy gear" -- what a life story she's keeping secret!] About animals we seek for this feature: Doesn’t have to be either dog or cat, could be both or more —- heck, we'd post slumber photos from tiny reptiles to big reptiles or politicians. Well, maybe not politicians.]

—- Offer spy or pie preferences by clicking on “comment” or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put FEWER COMMERCIALS, MORE FOOTBALL in the subject line. —-

AS FRIDAY ARRIVES, SOME CHALLENGES AND A QUEEN AND HER DOGS...

EDITION OF FRIDAY, SEPT. 9, 2014 [PetPowellPress] Mention Queen Elizabeth to us animal people and the first thing that may come to our minds is “Corgis.” 
There are other people we mention in this world but how they love dogs is not the first thing that comes to mind. They make the headlines, too, unfortunately.
By the time you read this, you’ve probably read, watched and heard just about everything you can about the Dear Queen of England and her life and her family. And, I liked to think she appreciated that so many Americans adored her.
This is a New York Times photo — I love it. No idea when it was taken. But, to me, it makes the Queen look like the rest of us who have loved our dogs since we were kids. And the dogs appear to love her right back, don’t they. That is a sensation — a companion’s emotion — that many of us commoners shared with the Queen of England.

A DOG’S CHALLENGE CAN BE MET
BUT ONLY WITH HUMAN HELP
Our pal Karen Lee of barkleyworld.com sent us a note about this girl Sushi. She got the desperate note from Steffenie Vela, longtime leader of Trinity GAP Rescue, the organization that evolved from the Euless Trinity High School’s Girls Awareness Program. Here’s the dog’s background according to Steffenie’s note:

“This baby is 16 pounds and 7 years old. She is blind from diabetes. Her name is Sushi. She is heartworm positive. We have to find her a foster or rescue. If you have any ideas, let me know. Thanks so much, Steffenie.”

Karen says Sushi is “is currently in the Euless Animal Shelter and needs out!!   Trinity GAP Rescue has no open fosters, so if you can foster thru them, that would be great!   I’m thinking she probably needs insulin for diabetes  and as the note reads, she is also HW positive.  Bless her heart—this is so sad—can anyone help?  Contact Steffenie with Trinity GAP Rescue at steffeniegaprescue@gmail.com."

IN THE WAKE OF A TOUGH AUGUST,
BARKLEYWORLD KEEPS WORKING
We’ve written about Barkleyworld — the non-profit named in honor of a beloved dog — many times. Barkley, adopted by Dennis and Karen Lee from Homeward Bound Animal Rescue in 1996, inspired the creation of the organization to help people and their animals. 
On the Barkleyworld website, Karen and Dennis posted this: “Reaching out to help strangers with catastrophic veterinarian costs is the heart and soul of Barkleyworld. All funds are paid directly to the veterinarian performing services and never to individuals. We rely solely on donations to keep going so please consider a small donation to Barkleyworld as we continue keeping Barkley's legacy alive.”
The drive to raise money on behalf of animals continues. Karen’s latest appeal reads, “August was a very busy month, like all the others, and we already have a line-up for requests for help in September. Imagine if you were unable to provide critical vet care for your pet. It’s just heartbreaking for so many who have fallen on hard times and struggle to take care of themselves, much less their pets. To many of these people, their pet IS their only companion—their only reason to keep going. We also reach out to local rescues/shelters and provide help with vet care when funds are available. 

“In August, we spent thousands of dollars to help Everman Animal Shelter with vetting for 32 dogs confiscated in a hoarding situation. These dogs all needed basic vet care, vaccinations, HW tests/preventatives, flea/tick control, etc. and they all needed to be fixed---and several were heartworm positive. A big thanks to South Hills Animal Clinic for providing vet care and for giving us great discounts. A vet tech actually adopted one of these dogs and we are so happy. We are hoping the vet care provided will help the others find homes or rescues. Please don’t shop—ADOPT!”

And Karen adds that “we rely solely on donations to keep doing what we’re doing – helping pets in the North Texas area with critical vet care! We are a 501c3 and all donations are tax deductible. All funds are paid directly to the vet and never to individuals. Check us out at www.barkleyworld.com and if so inclined, click on the Donate button and help us out! Click on the 'What’s Happening' tab to see what we’ve been doing the past 3 months. I’m working on posting August updates so stay tuned. Thank you for your compassion to others in need. God loves a cheerful giver, so if you can give, please give with a loving heart!”
AND THEN THERE WAS THE
LITERAL DUMPING OF 2 PUPS
This was posted on Tuesday on a neighborhood bulletin board in eastern Fort Worth. 
A woman named Erika wrote, “Caught a woman red-handed putting these pups in the dumpster. Yes, literally she was throwing them away. Please help me find homes. To my understanding they are brother and sister but sizes are completely drastic…the boy is about 2 times bigger than the girl. Chihuahua/pit mix is what I’m told but not so sure about the pit part. The little girl is tiny. About 10 weeks old. I purchased their first shots from the feed store but have yet to administer them. … “

This rescuer, while facing some difficult personal situations — really tough stuff —, was inspired to take the time and make the effort to save these dogs. She wrote, “I cannot keep them, or I would.” And she added, “I absolutely refuse to take them to a shelter. Normally I’m pretty good about finding homes for animals, but, as stated, not having much luck with these two.”
 And she confided, “The boy is kennel and house-trained. The girl is stubborn and doesn’t care. The boy is sweet as can be. The girl is a bully. Both are attention-and treat-driven.”

So, as of Thursday afternoon, that little stubborn girl had been adopted. The boy is still waiting.
No idea how to contact the rescuer — wasn’t included in her note. 

Also, no idea whether the woman who was throwing two puppies into a dumpster is going to jail. I have a theory about where she could be going. But I’ll pray for changes in her life. And bless the woman who rescued these dogs. That’s an angel at work.
CONTEMPLATIONS
A MIND CAN WANDER, RIGHT?

I love and I miss ice cream. …
It’s 2022 and I’m too old to box, but I’d like to take another shot in the ring with somebody who has less talent and looks worse in boxing attire than I do. Now, there’s a wandering mind for you. The last time I boxed in a ring, I hit a guy in the face with a punch and it surprised me so much that I laughed and that made him mad and he quit the match. If I can sneak a punch in, you must be a terrible boxer. We were just kids. I did not grow up to be a boxer. Neither did he. …
I did go to wrestling matches when I was a young reporter — spent time one evening in the dressing room with the public relations guy. The evening’s villain and good guy came noisily and angry into the room after a ferorcious match and they looked mad as all get-out until the door shut and then they broke down hugging and laughing like old pals who’d just pulled a big gag off in front of a crowd of believers. Two really nice guys, it turned out. I don’t look presentable in wrestling tights, either. But the fact that I miss ice cream suggests that I’m constantly working on losing weight and getting in shape for the next Summer Olympics — 2024 in Paris. Oui. Je n'ai pas de passeport et pas de sport choisi dans lequel j’excelle. That’s not even my French — I lifted it off a translation page. It reads, “Yes. I have no passport and no chosen sport in which I excel.” Besides 2024 wil be a presidential campaign year and I’m just interested in people who speak plainly and love America — and don’t wear wrestling tights to campaign rallies.
—- Offer coaching or methods of controlling lost dreams by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put “SUIT UP AND RUN SOME LAPS” in the subject line. —-

WE HAVE A CAVALCADE OF CRITTERS AND PEOPLE TODAY FROM ZEKE TO ZANY* (*LOOSE DEFINITION)

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY/THURSDAY, SEPT. 7-8, 2022 [PetPowellPress] Oh, Dear Readers, I figured that if I told you I was going to publish this photo of starving, frightened Zeke one more time, you might react poorly. So, rather than publish that one again by itself, I’m going to publish SEVERAL Zeke photos. There’s a good reason.
 As a veteran observer of shelter processes, I just knew for darned sure that Zeke was gonna be a goner -- yep, euthanized.  Shout "Hallelujah" or whatever your animal denomination encourages. Devoted rescuers saved him.
The additional photos are among the “So, long, Dallas Animal Services” photos as Zeke and his driver prepared to leave the crowded big city facility so this fine dog would be farther and farther away from the official City of Dallas Needle.
Keep in mind, I’ve had nothing to do with saving this boy — really dedicated and tough animal people stepped between him and an approaching fate. All I’ve done is ask questions and acquire photographs— like any good reporter. And I’m going to get the answers from veteran animal advocate/rescuer Tami Kukla who has been monitoring this challenge all along from right up close.
The background story is this: The starving dog Zeke was in Dallas Animal Services and, as the weekend arrived, was listed as being at “EU Risk.” Why? Not only was he starving, he’d also been diagnosed with a really rough case of heartworm. Most of the time, a case with these circumstances can’t be helped with a simple adoption. You’ve got to have people — veteran fosters and caregivers — who know what they’re doing — experienced people who know how to feed dogs in such a fix, people who know how to keep the dog calm and ready for proper heartworm treatment. In his state, he needs to, according to his “backup team,” be fed “slow, small high-calorie puppy food multiple time a day.” 

We’ll get more of this info from Tami, including where Zeke will land after he takes the rest of his ride out of the Metroplex some time today. 
No doubt, he’s going to need some help paying for his meds and his treatments and his post-rescue meals. We’ll get all that info and let you know.
 [LARRY CONFESSION: I’ve never met Zeke, probably never will. But he has the look of a fellow who will thrive and enjoy being told “Good boy, good boy” as someone who loves him scratches between those pointy ears or rubs his back vigorously, then pats him on his growing tummy as he recovers from whatever ill-fated encounter with a human he has escaped while starving. Yeah, there oughta be a law against letting your dog starve and build up a heartworm case. Maybe there is -- gets as much attention as a freeway ramp yield sign.]
IF YOU AND YOUR CRITTERS
VISIT GUN BARREL CITY….

How’s that for a headline that teases the reader! 
There’s a good critter reason to be in Gun Barrel City on Saturday. 
We got the info from our longtime reliable tipster Sydney Busch of the Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake, the organization that operates (so to speak) the world’s most successful spay/neuter clinic at Gun Barrel City, Texas. 
The Friends Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic will be the site (10 a.m. to noon) on Saturday of a session offering “affordable vaccinations, heartworm testing, microchipping and more.”
No appointment necessary, but if you have questions, call 903-451-4701. 
Also, the clinic is in need of supplies, Sydney reports.
For successful spaying and neutering and they’ll enjoy donations of 70% strength iopropyl alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, distilled water and, for the volunteers, cases of drinking water and cases of soft drinks (Coke, Pepsi, Dr Pepper — regular and diet.). Call that number for delivery instructions.
FOR GOODNESS SAKE, IS
THIS A CUTE DOG OR WHAT!!!!
Look at this dog. We got the tip on her from Mesquite volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm who wrote, “I have named this cute mixed breed pup Elsa. She is a delightfully charming youngster who was brought to the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 9/2 as a stray.  Elsa is approx 6 months old, weighs 25 pounds, and is not spayed.  She walks quite nicely on a leash for such a young pup.  She knows the sit command.  She loves treats and will sit for them and take them gently.  She is playful and likes toys.  Elsa is a fun-loving, happy-go-lucky pup with lots of personality and enthusiasm.  She is a friendly youngster and has a very sweet nature. … She would seem a good fit for an active person or family with children who would treat her gently.  There really is so much to like about this youngster with such a unique and beautiful coat and cutesy standup ears.”
Elsa is #51037077 at the shelter — use her ID number when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
Same system for this girl Sadie (#51009249). Debra says Alaskana Malamute Sadie was surrendered on 8/30 because “Sadie was getting nippy with the family’s 3-year-old child. Sadie has been the family pet since she was a pup.  Staff member attempted to offer suggestions as to ways of working with Sadie so that the behavior could be corrected so that Sadie could continue to have a home.  Owner was not open to such suggestions.  They have recently moved to Texas from out of state.  Now Sadie is looking for a new home.  She weighs 104 pounds, is 3 years old and is not spayed.  She walks beautifully on a leash and did not seem reactive toward other dogs when led through the bay. … She knows the sit, down, stay and come commands.  She has a moderate activity level.  Sadie is friendly and has a pleasant nature.  She enjoys being petted and loved on.”
[LARRY ASIDE: This really sounds like a work-it-out-save-the-dog situation.” To quote the passage that frequently appears on Mesquite appeals, “Our shelter has been critically overcrowded for months and dogs continue to stream in as strays and surrenders.  Rescues and adoptions are desperately needed.” This next dog indicates how quickly kennels can be taken up by dumped dogs.]
Debra writes, “Max [50924766] is a a Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) that was surrendered to the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 8/18 along with three other family dogs.  Reason for the surrender was that they were unwanted and the owner was unable to care for them.  The other three dogs have been adopted and Max alone remains at the shelter.  He weighs approx 70 pounds, is about 2 years old and is not neutered.  When he arrived at the shelter he was covered in fleas, was unsocial, had minor hair loss and skin infection.  In short, Max has not been well cared for.  I would venture to guess that he has lived life outdoors.  He is uneasy and nervous in the shelter environment.  Max is cautiously friendly.  He needs to build trust and confidence.  He enjoys treats.”
Volunteer Dog Biographer Judi Brown declares, “Valentina [#51011064] is a true sweetheart,” then adds, “She even has a heart-shaped spot to prove it! She is a one-year-old brown and white Pittie who weighs 49 pounds and came to the Mesquite Shelter on 8/30 as a stray. She is not spayed. Her markings are unique. She has three consecutive spots on her left side and a large heart-shaped spot on her right side. Her eyes are very light hazel almost looking like they’re blue. Besides being unique and special in her appearance she also has an outstanding personality. She is sweet, gentle, calm, friendly, loving, happy, and well mannered. Her tail wags constantly. She sits for treats and takes them gently. She occasionally jumps on you but in a loving gentle way. … When I called her she came and sat next to me and put her head on my lap. She stole my heart and I know she’ll steal yours!”
Judi also got to spend time at the shelter with Buddy (51003226), a 10- month-old brown and white Pittie/Danish Pointer/German Shorthaired Pointer mix. [LARRY ASIDE: That family tree seems to indicated a happy friendliness runs in the family.]
 Judi writes that Buddy is “appropriately named because he’s looking for someone to hang out with. … He weighs 47 pounds. He is not fixed. Besides his beautiful Hershey coloring, he has what appears to be a permanently curled tail. He could use some manners training to learn him not to jump on you. However, he gets down with a sharp retort. Other than that, he has sterling qualities. He’s loving, sweet, alert, well mannered, and appears to be a happy guy. He stayed close wanting extra attention. He sat for treats several times but then got tired of it. He walks OK on a leash. He totally ignored the dogs when I walked him through the bay. However he did acknowledge some of the smaller dogs in kennels outside the bay. I couldn’t interest him in playing with balls or toys. When I sat down he came up beside me and put his head on my lap. He even gave me kisses!”
Again, use these animals’ shelter ID numbers when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
One more bio from Judi. This is Ski, proounced “Sky,” she says. She’s #47628853, a year-old Pittie/Retriever mix — came in as an un-spayed stray on the last day of August.
Judi writes, “She is definitely looking for a friend and wants attention. Occasionally she would whine. I think she was just wanting me to notice her, but I couldn’t help but think she was sad wondering where her previous owners were. She did stay close and continually looked up at me with her imploring eyes. She is friendly, affectionate, gentle, calm, and judging from her tail for the most part happy. Her tail wagged constantly! She’s well mannered and sits for treats. …When I walked her through the bay she wouldn’t have anything to do with the other dogs. She just wasn’t interested. I think it’s because she wants so badly to be loved and wanted my attention.”

To see the many other animals in the Mesquite shelter, click on THIS LINK. 


In addition to the dogs, there are a great many cats and kittens.
Among the kittens at the shelter is this fellow Samson (#50237134), a 4-month-old Domestic Shorthair (very handsome) who is a medium size, came into the shelter on May 20.
He can be seen in the shelter’s Conference Room. His secretary will lead you to his desk.
[LARRY ASIDE: He looks like my handsome cat Stevie Ray (left) except Stevie Ray has been neutered for a few years and I know for certain they are not father and son. Spay & Neuter and shelters won't have to store unwanted kittens until they ... well, you know.]
AND, YET, NO ONE HAS STEPPED UP
TO HELP THE PUPS IN SMALL SHELTERS…
We’ll just use sad-faced Akasha to represent these dogs that the 4-Legged Helpers are trying like heck to get out of small shelters and lonely spots in Dallas/Fort Worth.
To help this girl, a Husky mix, or others we’ve posted before, call or text 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@ yahoo.com.
The other dogs include Chance (abandoned in boarding), Ollie (the playful guy with a brown eye and a blue eye), Baker the sweet heeler mix who loves to snuggle, and, of course Blue, the young Mastiff/Bulldog whose human grew ill and frail and had to give him up in Wilmer.  Keep up with all these "need some love" dogs and others by following 4-Legged Helpers on Facebook HERE.  This dog is Blue -- a fellow who needs a human who needs a loyal dog.
CONTEMPLATIONS
SEASONS, PISTOLS, RECOLLECTIONS
Our Eastern Seaboard Bureau Chief Andy Fisher reported Tuesday evening that there is some autumn in the air in New Jersey, specifically in Denville around the Indian Lake community. Gives me hope that autumn will come to Texas, too. In Denville, Tuesday, there was actual precipitation and the temps were in the 60s. Autumn. No doubt. It’s more than football, you know. …. 

Well, let's move on to the Zaney Report.... The Big Paper Downtown reports that the legendary Longhorn Ballroom is going to undergo revitalization — that’s the place that hosted not just country-music luminaries on its stage, but also a very sweet little ol’ band from England, The Sex Pistols. That was in January 1978.
In a moment of misguided recollection….I’ll never forget the Sex Pistols' welcoming parade through Downtown Dallas. As I recall, when the band broke up, lead singer Johnny Rotten moved to Dallas and was elected mayor for two terms. Oh, wait, I think I’m wrong about that — got him mixed up with another mayoral candidate. Might have been Sid Vicious. No, no, it was some local politician who was vicious. And there was no welcoming parade for the punk band. Not downtown, anyway. Might have been a parade to the airport to make sure they left, Dallas being Dallas, you know. …

—- Offer punk recollections by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put JOAN JETT AND THE BLACKHEARTS RULE in the subject line. —-

SAVING DOGS; ADMIRING FACES OF CATS AND DOGS; CONTEMPLATING POP....

EDITION OF TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 6-7 [PetPowellPress] Dogs are important. Cats are important. People I’m iffy about. Wait! People who love and protect and rescue animals — those are some angelic heroes who make the world a better place for animals and people! I’ve been a working journalist since 1965; observing the realities of life —that “angelic heroes” is constant. As the lawyers sometimes assert, “That’s a true fact.”
THIS MAY BE A DOG
WHO’S GETTING SAVED…
We’re waiting to get the final word on all the details about Zeke — but the early word is there’s an apparent good turn in his life. Details will come later. I’m sure he’ll need some donations. Criminy, look at him!
Starvation? Looks it. What we can’t see is the dramatic heartworm challenge he’s facing. [LARRY ASIDE: Look, yeah, I became a sap for this dog just because of the look in his eyes and boniness of his puppy ass! We’ve seen dogs like this before. They usually get in this condition because a human had a “don’t care/so what” attitude about animals.]

Zeke has been #A1156343 at Dallas Animal Services and the 5-year-old, painfully thin pup has been listed as “EU Risk” since last week. 
But, now, as we reach Tuesday the 6th, word is he’s got a way out toward a healthy, happy life. Stay tuned. 

The thing is: While this one dog is getting out of the city’s big shelter, there are many others critters waiting. Dogs and cats, as you know, tend to gather at the shelters formerly known as “pounds” in the big cities.
SO, FOLLOWING ON THE PAWS
OF THAT SHELTER DOG TALE….
OK, Dear Readers, this note says things far better than I could type them. It comes from Lauri Gautreaux who has a heart-felt connection to the Fort Worth Animal Care & Control Shelters. FYI: Her bio on her Facebook page reads, “Family First, Crazy Cajun Girl, Pit bull Advocate and Dog Lover, Lead Volunteer at FWACC!” 
And here’s the message [LARRY ASIDE: Shelters and workers may appreciate the attitude!]:
“If you really want to help a shelter instead of talking crap about them and dragging them thru the mud, starting private Facebook groups about them and constantly putting them down, how about you use that energy to go to that shelter and volunteer! We are needing people to help with enrichment, help getting better pics, helping adopters on the weekends and a list of other things. If interested please fill out the app. Trust me, it’s a lot more beneficial being part of a solution instead of adding to the problem!” And she says this photo is “courtesy of the amazing Kellei Mayes and Muffin!”

The Fort Worth volunteer link is HERE:
https://www.fortworthtexas.gov/.../cod.../animals/volunteers.
MEANWHILE, BACK IN DALLAS,
THE WEBSITE, THE CRITTERS…
As the noon hour approached Tuesday, we discovered that visiting the Dallas Animal Services website at 
https://www.bedallas90.org reveals that there are still problems with the site. But, we also could click through to photographs of animals waiting in the area’s big municipal shelter at I-30 and Westmoreland on the west side of downtown Big D. 
One of the animals listed is this kitten Dallas (#A1151621). He’s about 2 months old and is currently in foster care — but here’s the deal: In Dallas, it’s never too early to get onto the waiting list for a kitten! You know how the  kitten supply is always short in North Texas. Why, we hardly ever see free kittens around here…Oh, wait! I may have been hallucinating when I wrote those last three sentences.
But, isn’t that Dallas wearing a remarkable face! 
Could be yours.
Speaking of remarkable faces, I found this guy Kimbel’s picture on the Dallas available dogs list — his shelter ID is #1154696. He’s a year old mixed breed with the greatest set of show-biz eyebrows since Pagliacci.
 Scroll down to last weekend's Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap to see the reference point to the clown who cries in an opera. That canine/clown eye makeup is uncanny, isn't it!
You want dogs with eye designs — August (#A1155179) has the dots over his eyes and Kernel (#A1155228) has the patch effect. All available. 




The city has many, many more adorable adoptables waiting for either the right human heart or a human with a needle. Cruel fact of life in the town that named it’s airport Love.
CONTEMPLATIONS
ON A BIRTHDAY THAT WAS UNCERTAIN…
Not my birthday. Nope. My Pop would have been 98 on Tuesday — 9/6/24 to 11/18/2008. The reason I mention this is I knew his birthday was in September, but I could never remember when. Nor could my younger brothers. Mom and Pop hid his birthday from us — it was his idea.
 He never celebrated his birthday when we were kids — wouldn’t tell us when it was and teased us about his age. He’d rather laugh with us than be the center of attention. I don’t know why. 
Depression Era kid raised in rancid poverty with (if I’ve got the count right!) older and younger brothers and sisters — altogether 8 kids that survived infancy. That's a lot of poor kids.

Maybe, after living through a few years of WWII as an infantry soldier -- shooting and shot at from Normandy into Germany, then going into a concentration camp to set it free, he just figured he’d bury all those images and try to live a good American hometown life and ignore getting older. [LARRY ASIDE: That’s the photo from before he left for war. He looks like a little boy — I guess they all did in those days, didn’t they. No idea where my later photos are. In a box somewhere.]
 Pop was a kid with his kids. We played baseball, went fishing, played dominoes, played checkers. My lifelong friend Robert and I were talking about his checkers talent not long ago and Robert lamented, “I never was able to beat your dad at checkers!” Robert was pretty good, too. Pop was fun — more fun with our cousins but that’s because he wanted exemplary behavior out of his 3 boys and the cousins were his siblings’ responsibility. Of course, all of us cousins were wonderfully behaved at all times. That’s how I remember it. Our cousins loved “Uncle Calvin.”
Pop wouldn’t talk about war but he’d sure go to church.
 And he loved just staying home or visiting his siblings across town. But that’s it. No travel, no trips…He made exceptions.
 Once cold autumn weekend, I badgered him into going camping with my Boy Scout troop. He and Mom kept secrets from their kids. I didn't realize he'd "camped" across Europe in a wartime so cold that it wrecked a lot of tough soldiers. And it was only about 15 years after the war. Kids -- we pay no attention to these things and blunder right ahead. One of the secrets mom revealed after Pop had died was that frostbite from “the War” made life miserable for him in cold weather and then she said something about how that Boy Scout camping trip wrecked him for weeks. Geez, y'all shoulda explained things?
Pop also had war-borne insomnia -- I didn’t fully appreciate all he put up in addition to his little boys. I guess the thing to say is when it came to his kids, he “soldiered on happily.”   
One really key thing? My Pop taught us how to take care of dogs and why to love dogs, too. He got us our first Collie, Frisky, from a “Tyler fellow I was in the war with.” And, years later, he got our Border Collie Queenie from a relative who lived “out in the country” and always had beautiful dogs. Queenie may have been the best herder of three boys ever to have lived on the planet — and I know she’s enjoying a rest with Pop in the Hereafter. Pop also rescued our cat Pepper from under the hood of a car engine at his work one frigid winter morning at the railroad station where he worked. Pepper and Queenie were pals. We adored them. [LARRY ASIDE: That's a photo Mom took of me and my little brothers, Barry (left) and Garry) -- honest, Larry, Barry & Garry -- in the winter of 1961 in Texarkana --- Pop wasn't in it because he was at work at the railroad station, loading and unloading boxcars in this ferociously cold storm. American work ethic, you know.]
So, back to Pop’s birthday: I was way grown, beyond my divorce and working in Big D at The Big Paper — can’t remember if I was National Editor or a columnist at the time, but I decided I’d get Pop a birthday cake.
 I had to double-check the date with Mom -- reluctant Mom. And I ordered a “store-bought cake” that read “Happy Birthday Lil’ Calvin” and had enough candles to set off fire alarms. 
When I set it down on the dining table at Mom’s and Pop’s and lit the candles, Pop was nearly giddy and had to excuse himself. In a few minutes, he came back and we had birthday cake and ice cream and laughed, talked about times past and present (He was nuts about his kids, but, oh, my the grandkids — the 4 boys. Plus he and mom, who’d never had daughters, were bonkers over the little girls they “babysat” for our pals down the street. Those girls gave ‘em some new spirit!

Years later, Mom, who enjoyed keeping secrets, told me that the reason Pop had left the table that long-ago birthday was he felt himself getting emotional and went to the bathroom so he could cry a little bit and gain control. “Cry? Why?” I asked Mom and she said, “In his entire life, nobody had ever given him a cake on his birthday and it just got to him.” 
If he were here today reading this, he’d probably be embarrassed, maybe a little miffed that I mentioned his birthday cake and his birthday. But, you know, I miss him — I got to take him to his first big league baseball game — the Texas Rangers at their first ballpark, beloved Arlington Stadium. He was so excited, this 6-1 tall lifelong baseball fan with 3 kids who couldn’t make the big leagues.
He looked at me at that mid-70s game and looked around at the stadium, the people and the teams on the field and he says, “I never thought in my life that I would get to see a big league ballgame in person.” 

I can’t remember for sure, but for the sake of Pop, watching from a mid-level seat with a great view halfway down the 3rd base line, I like to think that I remember the Rangers won the game. Happy Birthday, Pop. Thank you for you’re service, for your daddying and for rooting for the Texas Rangers. And, Pop, if you have any influence with any Guardian Angels, see if you can get some assigned to the Texas Rangers for 2023 — a couple of pitchers wouldn’t hurt, either. FYI, Pop: I can’t imagine you at 98 — you probably still look like you're in your late 30s.

—- Offer advice or grins by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com. —-

SEEK IS THE THEME: SEEK RELIEF FOR ANIMALS, SEEK UNDERSTANDING OF HUMANS & THE SEEKERS

EDITION OF TUESDAY, SEPT. 6, 2022 [PetPowellPress] I got caught out in the rain Sunday afternoon. It felt wonderful to write a sentence about being “out in the rain” for the first time in months and months. Usually I just watch through the window like a responsible grown-up.
On Monday, I mowed the soggy grass and foot-high weeds. How Texan is that — forcing a power mower through soggy grass ’n’ mystery weeds. Yeeehah! Like to see a Tesla do that! (Relax, batteryheads, I’m kidding!)
Where was I when the rain came Sunday? Pet store parking lot going soggily inside to buy supplies, i.e., my primary mission in life: get more dog and cat food! The litter’s delivered by a railroad boxcar. I'm kidding. [That's my Office Cat William Powell - he wasn't amused by the boxcar quip. FYI: We have another William-style cat in our Mesquite report today. Please read on!]
Which reminds me: During “Clear the Shelters” did anyone actually clear a shelter this year? Anybody know? Email me at dallrp@aol.com and let me know.
Now, let’s talk events and opportunities to make lives better. Turn the lights down and cue the gentle harp music — Wait! Read about the animals and, then, when you get to Contemplations, cue that music.
HANG ON A SEC: I’VE GOT AN
EMOTION STRUGGLING TO BE FREE
This is personal. It’s something that’s been driving me nuts lately. I’ve got to quit reading neighborhood bulletin boards. And why is that, Larry? Because I’m getting angrier and angrier at people who write, “Our dog was out in the yard during the storm and got over the fence and we can’t find him.” Also, there are the people who type, “Our cat is afraid of storms and she disappeared last night. We can’t find her.”
 These are two of the variations on a theme that more accurately reads “I’m a grown-up but I’m not mature or responsible enough to have a pet.” 
If I’ve somehow offended you, I’ll apologize if you’ll demonstrate that you’ve wised up on how to care for your critter.

Hint: If you live in an area where coyotes have been spotted, perhaps you’d not want to let your little dog or little cat out to spend the night in the yard. You call your critter “cat” or “li’l dog” but a coyote, fox, bobcat or hawk uses the term “meal.” All that stands between your animal and a fatal attack is you. Wise up.
LET’S TRY TO FIND HOMES
WHERE ANIMALS CAN BE SAFE
We have a list of animals but what the Mesquite Animal Shelter needs is a few humans to show up and help dogs and cats find happy endings. We’re grateful that the “system” at Mesquite includes some hard-working volunteer dog biographers. We have these animals courtesy of dog bio-writer Judi Brown. 

First up is “sweet, sweet Jetta” who, Judi writes, “was adopted and returned after six days! She is very timid and needs time, TLC and lots of ‘attagirls’ to build trust and feel comfortable. She needs an adopter that will be understanding and give her all the time she needs to decompress. It would be helpful if her new adopter had experience with young puppies. She deserves someone that will invest time in her. She’s worth it!”  
As Judi wrote in her first evaluation of this dog, “Jetta is a 5-month-old Retriever/Australian Kelpie mix that arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 8/8 as a stray. She weighs 37 pounds and is spayed. She looks cutest when her ears are standing up!!! She’s an absolute sweetheart. She wants so badly for someone to love her. She is timid. She doesn’t know what to make of all the noise and commotion at the shelter. But she does let you know that she wants you to love on her. When you sit down she comes to you and puts her head on your lap. When she goes for a walk she walks between your legs for additional security. She sometimes slinks. She rolls over for belly rubs in a submissive way. She attempted to make friends with some of the smaller dogs but was intimidated by the bigger dogs barking at her. Because she is so timid she will need some TLC to develop her full potential.” Jetta’s Mesquite ID is #50845922. Use that number when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.

That brings us to Tootsie (#50956054), a 2- or 3-year-old, 56-pound German Shepherd mix. The un-spayed stray arrived on 8/23 as a stray and, Judi’s bio reads, “She is positively exuberant!. She loves to play fetch, retrieves the ball, comes back and drops it at your feet. One time I sat down and she put the ball on my lap!! She also sits for treats and takes them gently. She’s fun loving, playful, friendly, energetic, alert, joyful, and very loving! Besides that she’s beautiful! A bonus is that she gives kisses. … She went nose to nose with many of the dogs and jumped back when they barked at her. She did bark at one dog. I feel like it was a friendly bark.”

Judi writes, “Patches is a very appropriate name for this young girl, or she could also be called Freckles. She is a terrier pit/bull terrier/bulldog mix that arrived at the Mesquite Shelter on 8/26 as a stray. She’s one year old and weighs 27 pounds. She’s got a small frame. She is not spayed. The word that best describes her is SWEET!
She is very affectionate and gives kisses galore. Her tail wags constantly! She’s well mannered. She sits for treats and takes them gently.  She wanted to be so close it was difficult getting pictures of her. I found myself going around in circles. “Occasionally she jumps on you for an extra hug but that’s just occasionally. She has some growths on her nose and a lot of small scabby bumps on the top of her head. She’s been taken to the vet and is being treated for this condition. … She’s an all-around easy-going laid-back sweetheart. I imagine she’d be a real snuggle bug!” Her Mesquite ID is #ID 50988188.
This guy is Ricky (#50932422), a 2-year-old mixed breed who, according to Judi’s dog scanner app is an “English Pointer/Terrier mix.” The 57-pound, already-fixed boy came in as a stray on the 19th. Judi writes, “When I first got him in the yard he had his tail tucked but, with positive affirmations, he relaxed and decided to hang out with me. He’s friendly but not overly so. He’s calm, gentle, sweet, well mannered, and affectionate. He sits for treats and takes them gently. He was not interested in balls or toys. He spent some time by the door indicating to me that he was probably an indoor dog, but would benefit from a yard large enough to romp around in. … Ricky is definitely a diamond-n-the-rough.”

See more of Mesquites adorable adoptables — dogs and cats — by clicking on THIS LINK to the official page. When you get to the cat list, you’ll see this guy Albert (#50225516), a 5-month-old “Domestic Medium Hair/Mix” who has been at the shelter since May 19. That’s a while in this Era of Overpopulated Municipal Shelters. [LARRY ASIDE: As you may recall, our readlarrypowell.com office cat is one of these guys — William Powell. We recommend all varieties of cats and also these beauties. They rarely spend too much office time on the phone on personal calls.]

Remember, use the animal’s ID number when you call the shelter at
972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.

CONTEMPLATIONS
SOME MUSICAL NOTES

This one is dedicated to anybody who started a year in high school in 1966 and met up with the rule that said boys have to cut their hair and girls don’t. And, at our school, if you wore your loafers without socks, you’d get sent home to get some socks, unless you happened to be a female student. No socks required. There were more inequities in those days -- as we'd learn after graduation into the real world of oppression and "rules." Here’s Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young with Almost Cut My Hair.
Released in 1970. In 1966 I’m not sure we knew we could protest hair and sock rules. …

In the opening I mentioned calming harp music. Here’s the LINK —  My Baby Boomer colleagues will recognize this song’s enduring legacy at about the 2:35 mark….
And in honor of the loss of Judith Durham (Aug. 5, 2022) we link you up to two hits from the Australian pop group The Seekers featuring her magnificent voice as the lead singer. Click HERE for I’ll Never Find Another You. And CLICK HERE for Georgy Girl. 
Takes a fellow right back to 1967 and a righteously  gentle rockin’ era. Thank you Seekers and Judith Durham.
—- Offer a tune or a time by clicking on ‘comment’ or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put LET YOUR HAIR GROW, DUDE in the subject line. —-

TWO STORIES OF DOGS, ONE ON THE CLOCK TODAY

WHAT OF ZEKE
THE STARVING DOG?
We got a note about this dog from Tami Kukla, animal advocate and rescuer. Zeke is #A1156343 at Dallas Animal Services, according to our latest information. [LARRY ASIDE: We tried to get more on Sunday afternoon, but the DAS website was down. This, thus, is our latest info.
Zeke is 5 years old, weighs 45 pounds and clearly ought to weigh more. He’s listed as “EU Risk” because of shelter space, but moving him up higher on the list is “Heartworm Status High Positive.”]
Early Monday morning: 
Latest report from Tami is he’s on the clock at 11 a.m. on Labor Day at DAS.

The bio Tami sent us says Zeke became “available” for tagging on Sunday. His bio reads, “Scared baby boy! He is very skinny and seems to be in discomfort. He also has some scrapes on his skin.” To offer to take this guy in through fostering or rescue, contact the Dallas Animal Shelter. 
Again, on the clock at 11 a.m. on Labor Day at DAS.
SWEETDOG, BIG PAWS,
NEEDS BIG-HEARTED HOME
This is a dog in East Texas who has won from West Texas and beyond. The bottom line is this: Cute, sweet dog needs a home.
Karen Lee of barkleyworld.com tipped us to the appeal from Fort Worth’s West Side Animal League on behalf of a dog “located out in East Texas.” 
As you can see in the photo, he’s a bit of a pet-me-let-me-flop-on-you guy. The bio reads, “This sweet boy has had a rough life and needs a new forever home that can focus on him. He needs to be an only child with somebody who can be patient with him and train him. He has a lot of potential but has not had anyone work with him.  He is located out in East Texas. West Side will work with somebody to supply a kennel etc. for him  And will sponsor some basic training. If anyone has it in their heart to give this guy a second chance before he is taken to the shelter please let us know. … He is up-to-date on all vaccinations, altered and microchipped. Transport available.”
 The contact is Carol at 817-371-0394.
—- Offer ideas, opinions by clicking on ‘comment’ below. —

WILLIAM & WENDY SLUMBER ON THE COUCH (WHILE TALES ARISE IN A ROAMING MIND)

For our Labor Day Weekend presentation of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap, we present one of each.
The slumbering charmers are my office cat William Powell and my funspouse Martha’s rescued roadside dog Wednesday Louise Wagstaff-Arden, aka Wendy. 
Because I walked into the room with a cellphone camera at the ready, I snapped some shots of these companions, these inspirations, these darling animals who make no money and live like royalty. 
Neither of them is currently speaking to any members of the British Royal Family. Matter of time, of course — there are nice homes for sale in our neighborhood. 

These two do enjoy snoozing through Father Brown, Doc Martin, Midsomer Murders and other BBC productions. Matter of time until they wind up at the cocktail party with a prince or two.

[LARRY ASIDE: I may be over-fantasizing the relationship between our companions and Buckingham Palace types.Also, neither William nor Wendy has met British Prime Minister Boris Johnson though it is said that he has given a peerage job to our girl Porche Noel, in her working glasses, because she helped him write his book The Dog Wags The Tale: Finding Friends in Parliament. That book is said to be a “tongue-in-cheek-farewell to both houses of Parliament. OK, I’ll stop there and admit that mentioning PM Johnson and a peerage job for an author is a current comedy in the English papers. I was loathe to make fun of American politics, mainly because it just ain’t funny these days. Heck, I swear that Nixon was a laugh riot compared to this era of clowns. Oops. Didn’t mean to type that.]
Speaking of clowns: After Martha brought Wendy home from her roadside desperation, the young dog quickly claimed a permanent spot in our household.
And one day, as Wendy was sleeping, I noticed the natural eye makeup she wears and became concerned that we were going to owe design royalties to the writer of Pagliacci. And if not him, to hundreds of circus clowns around the world for “Distinctive Eye Presentation.”

[LARRY OPERATIC FYI: Pagliacci is Ruggero Leoncavallo’s Italian opera about a murderous clown named Canine. Oops. Sorry, that clown is named Canio. No kin to canine.]

As you can see in this illustration, the great singer Pavarotti may have been influenced to replicate Wendy’s eye makeup after their brief meeting during one of our evenings out with the BDOC (Big D Opera Crowd). We’d won 3 tickets to Tosca during a public television fund drive marathon. Wendy often barks in tenor and her rhythmic barking attracted the attention of the famed tenor Pavarotti as the cheering crowd followed him into the Aria Room of the Old Spaghetti Warehouse in Dallas’ West End. Wendy really loved the angel hair and meatballs with red sauce.
OK, looking back over these paragraphs, I see that I’ve presented only 3 actual facts: (1) William the Office Cat and Wendy were sleeping in the house we share; (2) Pagliacci is a clown and (3) American politics is really nothing to joke about.
That's Wendy enjoying a stretch on the rug. And, to the right, the handsome office cat William working on hitting the high notes for his opera, Cataglow at the Rodayo.
[DEAR READERS: Please -- I'm begging you -- send photos of your slumbering dogs, cats and other critters and their stories to dallrp@aol.com and we’ll post the package on readlarrypowell.com in our long-running weekend feature, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. You may be inspiring an opera star to adopt a homeless animal. Or you may inspire an insomniac to use opera as a somniferous tool. Enjoy your holiday weekend naps.]
— Offer opinions or solos by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put HIT THE NOTES, BIG TONSILS in the subject line. —-

AS LABOR DAY WEEKEND ARRIVES, SOME THINGS TO WORK ON....

EDITION OF FRIDAY, SEPT. 2, 2022 [PetPowellPress] Now and then, Dear Readers, we see things we never expected to see and I’m not referring to politics.
I got an email with this subject line: HOUNDS OF THE ELLIS COUNTY LANDFILL.
You may know there are animals who survive by scavenging at landfills in Dallas and surrounding counties, but this is an odd “breed-specific” dump.
“Dump” in this case is a noun referring to the despicable act of “dumping” unwanted animals at the, well, dump.
So, the story from Greyhound Adoption League of Texas (galtx.org) is that the manager of the Ellis County landfilled “called us about several Greyhounds living on the property. Three hounds had already been captured and taken to the local SPCA. They had another hound, Zeke, captured at the landfill.”
 [LARRY ASIDE: I’m OK with naming the Ellis County Landfill Manager “Enlightened and Responsible Government Employee of the Year.” Anybody got a form for that?]
A s you can see in Zeke’s photo, he was starving toward death trying to survive at the landfill. GALT says he was covered with ticks and fleas and was painfully thin. There’s this, too: “According to his tattoos, he is 7 years old, but he is not micro-chipped. We agreed to immediately take him in and get him to the vet.”
And GALTx adds, “After the expiration of their hold periods, we also welcomed the three hounds at the SPCA: Emma, Ethan, and Elliot. These three appear to be Saluki/Greyhound mixes and are in rough shape, just like Zeke. Emma is in the worst shape, with several wounds that needed veterinary attention.”
Now, GALTx reports, “Zeke, Ethan, and Elliot are now resting comfortably and getting several small meals a day in GALT foster homes. Emma will stay at the vet for a little longer. We are anticipating at least some positive results for heartworm or tick borne disease, and will get them appropriate treatment as soon as we know more. Two more Greyhounds remain at the landfill and workers continue to look for them three times a day.”
Getting the dogs to adoption-shape will be expensive. GALTx’s note includes this: “The bills for veterinary care, medications, and food will add up quickly. You can be a part of their story with a donation for North Texas Giving Day. Early giving is already open, and thanks to generous, anonymous donors, we have $10,000 of matching funds that will make your donation help the landfill hounds twice as much! Make your donation here by September 22nd!” NTX Giving day is on the 22nd — click HERE.
A BLIND AND DEAF CAT
WAITS FOR A HOME
Animal advocate Tami Kukla tipped us to this cat in the care of Mesquite Animal Services. Her name is Elinor and she’s a senior girl, the “Cats of Mesquite Animal Services” appeal reported. 
[LARRY NOTE: Prepare to gasp at this rescue!] The appeal reads, “She came in as a stray last week…” Blind and deaf AND a stray? She must have a well-bandaged guardian angel. The sentence continues with a note about a couple of angels. It reads Elinor was rescued “by one of our Officers after a resident found her wandering and feared for her safety.”
 At the shelter, her life-saving story continues, “Since she came in she has been hanging out in a staff foster home. She presented as blind and deaf at intake. She was seen by the vet …[who] confirmed she is blind and deaf. Cause is unknown. She will likely need a dental (teeth are not good), but no indication of infection per the vet. She does eat canned food and kibble great. She keeps a clean kennel and uses her litter box and is so sweet.
“Elinor is need of a rescue who can provide her with all the love and some dental work.” To ask about helping Elinor, email the shelter at rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
FYI: Remember, there are many more cats and many dogs available at the Mesquite Animal Services Shelter. On the Mesquite Animal Services list of animals Elinor the Cat is #50986360. 
See more cats and dogs by clicking on the shelter’s animal link HERE. 

Among the dogs available this weekend? We’ll have abbreviated reports, but at the shelter’s website you can get the long version for these pups. Our biographers are shelter volunteers Judi Brown and Debra Chisholm.

ADAM (#50925084) is a mostly black Pittie boy, 4 years old, weighs 56 pounds, isn’t fixed and came in as a stray on the 18th. He’s a tail-wagger and, yet, still “decompressing” in the shelter. Judi writes, “I get the feeling he hasn’t had a lot of socialization. Yet when I sat down he came to me, pushed literally up against me and put his head on my lap. That really stole my heart!”

COLE (#50961381) “Just look at Cole’s ears,” Judi wrote. A year-old, 45-pound, not-yet-fixed Pittie mix, Cole came in as a stray on the 23rd. Judi’s note reads, “He’s lively, joyful, enthusiastic, friendly, and very loving. He could be the life of the party! He loves stuffed toys and will toss them in the air. It’s fun to watch. He’s very alert and curious. When I sat down he came to me to have his ears scratched.”

ELINOR (#50784912) This Shepherd-mix girl came in as a stray on July 30. She’s about a year old, weighs 45 pounds and isn’t spayed, Debra reports. A sweetheart with “lots of puppy enthusiasm”, plus she’s confident, outgoing and trusting.” Elinor was picked up on the July 30 with her sister. That is this girl…

ELOISE (50784898). High-spirited, Shepherd mix youngster, Debra reports. Like her sister, she has “lots of puppy enthusiasm.
EDDIE (50897625), about 2, weighs 40 pounds and isn’t neutered. He came in on 8/15 as a stray and is a happy dog who loves treats and “staying close to a human companion.” Debra writes, “One of our volunteers spent time brushing out some of his excess fur and he stood perfectly still and was cooperative.  He did resist having a bath given him as though he was afraid of water.  He does have a bit of nervous energy, but he is lively and exuberant.”

Remember, use their ID numbers when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
SCOOBY’S THE NAME,
FINDIN’ HOME'S THE GAME…
Here’s the post we got from Nancy Hinds about a dog waiting for a new home in Nacogdoches in the Piney Woods of East Texas near the Louisiana border. Here is the email for volunteering to help this dog by rescue or adoption: nants@att.net.
The bio reads, “This beautiful pup in a plain brown paper wrapping is in search of a home of his own thru no fault of his own. Scooby was left abandoned when his 'family moved away. Scooby was taken in by a real family who is trying their best to care for him but not only do they not have the financial means, the landlord is not amused by Scooby. Scooby has a date with the shelter of September 7, which very likely could be his last day on the planet and we all know why. Scooby is considered a Beagle/Lab mix, according to the first 'family.' He is approximately 6 months old. Scooby LOVES his human kids who have adopted him and would very much like some human kids in his new home.
"Scooby's human broke my heart with this statement: 'Scooby's so loving I feel like he might go into a depression at the shelter.' I will do whatever I can to assure Scooby's health and safety but I need your help. Is there anyone who has a spare corner for a kid and animal loving dog who just wants to live his happy life?" Remember, that contact point is nants@att.net. Or you can message Nancy on her Facebook page.
CONTEMPLATIONS
WHEN A MOOD STRIKES ME…

Sometimes I wonder how I can influence good-hearted people to adopt animals that keep showing up on appeals from rescuers and shelters. For example I’ve mentioned both of these dogs — Chance (left) and Blue — a few times before. Chance is the dog who was “abandoned” after he was boarded and he spent more than a year there "waiting."
Blue is the guy who was surrendered to a shelter after his human became too ill provide care for him. When I see these long-waiting animals I imagine myself writing, “Don’t make me reach through this screen and thump some sense into your head.” But that would be wrong. In case you’re interested in doing something right — how’s that for a Contemplation? — call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com. ….
Hard to believe it's September 2022 and the Rangers have been mathematically eliminated for 2023. I’m kidding. As a Rangers fan since 1972, the year the franchise moved from Washington, D.C., I’m accustomed to waiting until next year. Year after year. …
Dear Readers, enjoy your Labor Day weekend. Drive carefully, eat carefully. Read a good book. See a good movie. Listen to some good music. There was probably a union member involved in something.
Here’s a COOL SONG ABOUT SUMMER — family effort, i.e., Sly & the Family Stone.
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